Before deciding on a colour, don't forget to consider your kitchen cabinetry, benchtop, splashback, etc (and dining furniture)... for example, if you have a classic hamptons (farmer style) kitchen (and furniture) then don't discount a warm white for the walls... it won't look clinical as the warmth will come from the kitchen cabinetry, etc and dining furniture, e.g. But if you have a "hamptons inspired" look with a slightly more contemporary kitchen cabinetry (and furniture), then in my opinion (all nice options above but a bit too beige'ish for me) so I would suggest a light shade of a warm grey e.g. Whichever way you decide to go, try to narrow it down to 2-3 colours, get the small pot samples and paint each one on all the applicable walls as they will all look different at different angles depending on how they reflect natural daylight and the lights at night time... then you may be able to make a clearer decision. Good luck! :)

There are lots of tile options these days - if grout is a worry why not consider a solid-surface panel which is a full sheet (so no grout lines) that is cut to size. There are quite a few options around that are rated for bathroom use so try a google search to see what comes up. Large format tiles are an easy way to give the impression of more space, but other design tricks are also possible (such as laying tiles in a vertical or horizontal pattern to make the walls feel taller and the floor feel longer or wider). Talk to a qualified bathroom designer as they are the most up to date on the latest products and how they can be applied to your space. They'll also be able to give you some good advice on how to incorporate elements that suit the style of the house without making it feel too enclosed. Good luck.

Hi Bron. I'm totally with those who have suggested a. Colorbond Monument and b. No rendering. As a professional renovator, I see clients who had not taken into account the maintenance - cleaning, patching the cracks when the house moved and they all do, eventually) and would not render again. Bagging is really old-fashioned. The bricks are a great colour to work with. The suggestions of plants , a path leading (directing visitors) to your door, and I'll add using a feature colour on the door (an unobtrusive screen door - or even removing it) would make a big difference. It would be great to see a pic of the house from the street to see if there's anything else to suggest. Happy reno!!

I'd suggest framing it out and using it as a window seat. A carpenter could get that done in half a day. Anchor the frame to the wall, get a custom cushion made and fill it with some cushions and you have a beautiful space to read. Bonus is the minimal cost.