My thoughts are: Paint the stair in a Matt Black (As per Tilly above), Definitely look to remove the carpet from the steps. The carpet spoils these beautiful treads. Is this brickwork all through the house? If so, then probably quite an expensive exercise to paint. If there is only a small amount of brickwork, then to paint it would radically change the appearance of the space. Perhaps also a grey toned carpet would work well.

I really like the idea of concealing the screen. TV's, when off, leave a black hole in the wall to me. I don't watch or own a TV though, so I guess they'll always stand out to me. I also like how concealing a TV "repurposes" the space. It's no longer the focus of seating arrangements. I really like the sliding art panel and wouldn't it be great if it automatically slides over once the TV is switched off!

I'm always surprised whenever I read discussion threads on the pros/cons of timber vs engineered or timber-look products is that I seem to be the only one who cares about the sound, not just the aesthetics. I grew up in very old houses and for me, that sound as you walk along a real timber floor is majestic and cannot be replicated by other products that to, seem to all sound like fingernails on a black board in comparison (okay not really, but it evokes the same reaction in me as does walking on lino). So, for that awesome sound of "real" timber and for longevity's sake, authenticity's sake, and all the reasons above I say option 2. Of course, budget is also important and I totally understand the width argument too.

I love that firepit Planted Passion. legendaryflame Im in lower Blue Mountains so not proper heights for rhododendrons. I guess my vision is to have some more shade in summer, spots of colour for bees and birds, a haven to come home to. We would love all of the things you have mentioned. This is our home for the next 20 years, so we have time to work at our own pace, im not sure what the priority should be. id love 1 or 2 maples sitting either side of some lovely stairs going down the middle of where the pigface is. im not sure if maples are tough enough.