Not sure if you like to grow herbs, but I grow basil, peppermint, and rosemary in my pots. They don't require a whole lot of sun and then they're useful! Nothing like fresh herbs to spice up your tea or foods. :)

Hi Lizzie I'd go with the idea of having the fence the same as the render. It will not be too much if you contrast with BIG white planters with abundant green plants. Then add green in outdoor cushions and small planters. Your red floor rug will be the wow factor. Have fun.

A couple of ideas: 1) An outdoor umbrella can help shade a seating area, making it more versatile and your outdoor seating can still be used during those hot sunny summers or even when there is a bit of rain. It also provides you with some privacy from peeping neighbours when you entertain guests. 2) Outdoor furniture with aluminium frames are lighter and easier to move especially for an apartment, and can also help create the illusion of more space compared to using more solid bulky outdoor furniture. Here is an example from one of our outdoor styling projects-> [https://www.houzz.com.au/photos/castle-hill-p143-contemporary-patio-sydney-phvw-vp~101986640[(https://www.houzz.com.au/photos/castle-hill-p143-contemporary-patio-sydney-phvw-vp~101986640). Something similar (i.e. white frame with light grey cushion covers) may potentially work really well in your courtyard. 3) When you get outdoor plants, ensure they are hard wearing plants that thrive in direct sunlight and is low on maintenance to make your life easier. I find a couple of outdoor yaccas like the one below, are always a safe bet. 4) Adding a outdoor cushions will summer designs and colours immediately add a bit of charm to your seating area. Freedom has a great collection->Freedom outdoor cushions. As annb1997 mentioned, UV resistant is definitely the way to go. Happy decorating!

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