Contrast definitely. Monument is a personal favourite and goes with almost anything. As does Woodland Grey. I guess handrail is going to get a lick of paint as well in a dark grey or black.

Thank you for your suggestion. I know Woodland Grey but will take a look at Monument. I'm a little hesitant about going too dark as the ground floor of the house does not get much light. The deck will eventually be replaced and expand the width of the house. It will be in red gum and oiled.

The red of the deck will look something special against a darker colour. Monument is a charcoal grey that can take on a very dark purple in some lights. Woodland is a greener grey while Ironstone is a dark grey but blue toned. If you did the lot in Surfmist it would go the other way and look too bland. Safe, but bland..... Aim for eye catching so passersby stop.

Although Monument would make a striking contrast, as you said, it may be a little dark. Other British Paint colours which will coordinate to create a contrast of light and dark are Winteridge, Dune or Sandbank, depending on which undertone you want.

Terrific suggestions. Thank you! I guess I'm erring on the lighter side. The house next door (that you can see) is a darker colour. I think it looks very smart but it's too dark for me. I would like to complement their colours but not go as dark. Is there a colour principle involved re dark colour on bottom vs light colour? I will be planting appropriate coastal plants around the house which will hopefully take curse off blandness if I were to go lighter. By the way, the garage is being done in Surf Mist cladding. My next dilemma will be what sort of garage door. Money is running out fast but I'd love to go timber barn doors :)

I wonder, what if I were to paint the ground floor lesser brick in a textured paint in Surf Mist?

If you're wanting something lighter have a look at JoAnn Clarke's suggestions. Dune is quite popular. To much of anything is too much so avoid the Surfmist. It may become too bright come summertime. Timber barn doors in timber to match your deck would be great.

Hey Cloudpants,

I like your suggestions. The shaded lane doesn't look to oppressive either.

Thank you again.

We've made the decision - Dune for the downstairs. Thanks heaps everyone :)

Hoping for more advice...The old garage will be clad in Surf Mist colour bond. Should we accent a new garage door in the Dune or keep it Surf Mist?

Also re kitchen...

glass splash back or tiles?

Im glad you went with the contrast darker colour on the basement. My theory is that a darker colour on a lower surface (basement, flooring, foundations etc) ground a structure and give the occupants a feeling of security.