Hi all, wow, Im so impressed with the feedback. I had a very busy weekend with weddings and birthday parties so can only just now respond. I can also offer a bit more info to help explain why some of the decisions that have been made, were made. If I miss any points its unintentional. We have an ROW at the rear, hence why the shed is orientated the way it is - to have easy access into the lane way. I am open to exploring a different layout of the back yard. The 'courtyard' is actually our drying area. Its the most logical place for it, again want to re-evaluate based on the feedback above. The alfresco is designed on the northern side to make most of northern sunlight. The kitchen/dining is on the north to give a longer view down the backyard to keep an eye on the kids. The bathroom is designed with a future en-suite in mind when funds allow. I agree that the powder room requires walking through the laundry, but we also did that for a bit more privacy, and that allowed a window outside. I do like the idea of the highlight windows above the alfresco, but almost below them is the TV which will cause to much glare. I'd be worried in summer to have such unprotected north facing windows and would find they would be covered most of the time with blinds kind of defeating the purpose. We love the 2 sets of stacking doors. They are our only non-negotiable. Ill keep think, im sure there are more points there I missed.

Alex, your courtyard area is probably too tight to achieve what you want plus a workable grass area, which will be a hassle to maintain for a small benefit. The first step would be to consult an arbourist about the health condition, longevity and potential to trim any branches below 2m of the existing two trees. No point in landscaping around two old trees if they are in poor health. At the same time confirm with your arbourist how close to your tree trunks that you can pave. In keeping with the period of the home I would probably use second hand bricks from the same period of the home, laid on a sand base to pave most of the area to provide good access between the entry gate and front door, as well as the dining and BBQ area. Don't pave near your tree trunks or under low hanging branches that will be kept. Keep a planting bed at least 600mm wide adjacent to the boundary fence and between the brick paving and house to soften the look. Select plants for your planting beds based on needs, probably low level shrubs between the house and paving, and vertical growing evergreens along the boundary fencing where you may need privacy. Shade loving ground cover under your trees, and mulch everything. Keep it understated and simple, and make the retained tree(s) and your house the feature with garden lighting. In a courtyard this size you don't need to introduce a feature. Best of luck, Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls

This is really a utility area. You have a washing line, an air conditioner unit, which are noisy, and a hot water system in that area. I would not be spending a great deal on flooring. I would purchase more planters for flowers and vegetables and put them along the fence line. I can see your small outdoor seating is in the corner, because it would be in the way for the washing line, but ideally have that in the middle or to where the cat is sitting. Then lots of flowering plants and greenery along the entire perimeter of the courtyard space. This is something you could do yourself after a trip to Bunnings or a similar retail shop. The concrete ground just needs a good sweep. If you install decking then this may need ongoing maintenance and not really achieve anything. Don’t pay money for someone to do this job, when it is quite achievable by yourself, and fun, and satisfying. If you are not physically capable then a handyman gardener would purchase and pot all the plants.

Lattice attached to back fencing is falling off any ideas on what to replace it with and how to spruce up the area which includes a side access area?