Yeah, not a fan of the columns or the existing doors. Change columns to hardwood posts and door also to hardwood or standard timber. I don't dislike the lattice but you could add horizontal hardwood battens there as well to add more timber to the front. Merbau is a great looking timber being a rich dark red. The window frames are able to be painted but painful to do to get a good job. A recycled brick driveway could be another option as coloured concrete may look a bit to 'new'. Not as cheap as concrete but would really the style of the house. Don't forget landscaping equally as important as anything else. You will need a retaining wall if you cut in the driveway where you've suggested. Also be careful around the area under that window as the wall & footing may not be as deep as needed so another retaining wall/planter could be required.

From the look of the photo your idea about the new front door is great! Make it a feature. Could the path go from the front of the property straight to the front door? This would make the perspective change when arriving from the drive way area to the front of the house. Trim the foliage so it's no higher than the rail and plant either side of the pathway with something low growing or annuals if you like to garden. A low retaining wall next to the drive way. Cascio is so right about checking where your services are before you decide on a design and start work! Love the idea of the terrace being an outside oasis. Have fun! :)

Hi there,

I think your house looks great! Agree that the front door needs a change and would look lovely painted - perhaps consider a strong, bright colour. Yes, the posts would look great as timber more in keeping with the style of the rest of the house. Only 3 other words I would say - planting, planting and planting! The right plants/trees/shrubs will soften the house and yard and give the house enormous appeal.

I agree with N.B. Interiors! The gardens should be planned out before planting. Landscapers have all the knowledge in the world in where and what you require to improve the facade of your new home. It will also add value to your property in the long term.

Such a lovely home. I think a glass bevel-pane front door would look great, and bring light to the inside. Looks like you could fit a double one? Prune the front bushes below the porch rail, and plant colourful annuals beneath them. Make sure the porch lighting is pretty, add a rug, chair and table at one end for a porch sitting space, to give your visitors a feeling of coming 'home'. As for the drive, I agree with above, do the homework before you get the bobcat in! As for the garden, there are a lot of ideas on the net, ask you local nursery or look at what does well in your area.