Pretty much all the advice we were going to suggest has already been given - this is why we love Houzz so much! A full 'Houzz' of top notch advice :) The only thing we would say, in addition to good soil and planting with the seasons, is to keep on top of the weeds and make sure you're planting the right herbs/edible plants where the sun is right. Weed mats are a great option, and others swear buy mulch/grass clippings too! We have some garden items that may help - like trellis', frost covers, mulch mats, etc. Check out the garden solutions range here. Also, here's a short post about the benefits of having shade in the garden. We're excited to see how your garden goes! Please share progress shots with us!

Consider combining the concept of console with shoe storage. Check out this cabinet for example. http://www.mattblatt.com.au/Credenza-Storage/Bakbo-Tall-Cabinet.aspx?p19566c17#19568 It has a mid century modern feel and comes in both blond and walnut timber. While this style of cabinet is a bit taller than the average console or buffet it is still low enough for a mirror over the top. The advantage is it's a stylish piece of furniture that has shelves for shoes, hidden behind doors. Although the entry/hall is long it is already full of doors so try not to fill it up with furniture. A single cool looking piece of furniture on either walls #1 or #3 with some fabulous artwork on wall #5 and whichever of #1 and #3 doesn't have the cabinet on.

Live in it..... work out what you love, what you hate, what you'd like to change, where the sun shines in, where it doesn't. Repair or replace anything that is dangerous or causing damage (e.g. electrics or leaking gutters). Work out what style you like, decide whether it suits the house and then start thinking about changes you could make.

A beautiful and sympathetic facade transformation and update to accomodate a needs of the family.