Oh wow!!! Grover you are amazing, seriously amazing!!! Im in love with the white walls, everything just pops....but there is a small problem. The painting doesnt fit on the smaller wall, its far too big :( I had Jenns place saved on my ipad few months ago :) :) and I do like the wide white borders too. Happyasaclam - use thomy mayo in the salad, its the best. Merry christmas everyone.....we're already celebrating here in down under.

I agree with the suggestion to grow hedges or shrubs on either side of the stairs. I would suggest replacing the existing pots on either side of the top of the stairs which much larger "statement" pots with some interesting, tall and narrow architectural plants to create an artificial "doorway" and somewhat "grand entrance" onto the deck. I would potentially compliment those pots with some smaller, rectangular planter boxes around the edges of the deck (with much shorter, but complimentary plantings) to enhance the feeling that it is an outdoor room (and to prevent anyone from accidentially stepping off the edge of the deck). I would also re-arrange the furniture so that there is a clear thoroughfare from the stairs to the timber doors. And I would consider creating a faux entry feel by removing the blue box/esky (?) against the wall between the window and door and replacing it with a small, durable/outdoor "console table" and then hanging an appropriate outdoor artwork or even a mirror above the table. For example: http://www.bigw.com.au/home-gifts/home-décor/arboreta-mirror-107699.htm This might help the space to feel more like an "entry". You could even go for the obvious and add a "welcome" mat outside the door and/or a painting with "welcome to my/our home" (or a similar phrase) on the wall. For example: http://www.target.com.au/p/wall-words-hello/56300024

I don't expect anything so if something appears on my pillow, i'll be happy. :)

I am of the opinion that even a minimalist home needs warmth. And the blue and white ginger jars will give you just that. I have some in my home and just love them. If you pick up the blue in curtains or cushions this would help incorporate them into the design. Or else pick the white and go with this. When placing them put them off centre on the table. You can even take the lid off, put it at the side and use the jar for flowers or a dried arrangement if the mood allows. Also potpourri is good in these pots. Alison