Hi ca69. I haven't read through all the comments but wanted to point out that my eye keeps getting drawn to the massive 'blank' space under the semi circle gable. As an Australian that has visited QLD alot I know the look you are trying to achieve but the front right of the house seems really unbalanced with the window so far to the right. What about one window centred on that wall or two windows the same size to give it symmetry? Also, might be good to look at light coloured colourbond roofing. Something like Dulux surfmist as the lighter colours reflect sun rather than absorb it and it is already hot enough up there. I would lose all the brick on the exterior and replace it with the coloured hardiplank composite - it doesn't need painting and is a composite rather than timber. Keep the colours lighter for eco reasons. I work for greenstar builders and lighter exterior colours in hot environments is becoming common building practice. Also look at painting your front door a red or lime green. There are pictures oh Houzz for inspiration.

Treasure it for the gem of a 1940s/50s home it is, complete with glorious wrought iron work. Suggestions have been made as to how to boost the height to meet current building codes. You will regret updating the exterior for what is likely to be a one that will date quickly and be higher maintenance . It is only a matter of time until such homes are as treasured as Victorian terraces or Californian bungalows. It is an icon of its time. Accept it for what t is. Why make your house look like a fashion victim of 2019, when it stands in almost the full glory of its original period? It will also save you a fortune too! But yes, minimise the concrete! and add a garden that refects the period the house was built. Roses if you like them, with maybe a magnolia or crepe myrtle feature tree but for lower maintenance try some architectural and ground covering succulents. You could also go with edibles like feature citrus and olives for a Mediterranean feel.

I think both plans make the stairs too dominant and take away from look of house original stairs actually look better and suit house Will you use decking? Maybe modernise railing and look at door and window treatments

I totally agree with Fusion LD. There are so many opportunities with your great blank space, however you need to consider what you want to achieve from the garden. It looks quite detached from the house, so how do you draw people (you and your family, friends, etc) out into the garden? Will this space be your main outdoor entertaining / dining area? Do you have children or pets and need a more open activity area or can it be divided up into smaller spaces? It looks like it has really good northerly aspect, so do you want a vegetable garden / herb planters / fruit trees? If the second photo is the view from the main access to the garden, then that gives you a starting point for attracting people into the garden. A glimpse of a feature tree or ornament from this point could be all it takes to create that invitation. Use planting and the shape of a path to hide enough of the garden to create a sense of discovery. So many opportunities here for you! PS. I would move the hose to somewhere less conspicuous!