Seriously you need to check out the Kerlite cladding. No need to sand, the variety is huge even wood look. All you need to do is put on a thicker screed. As I said you do need a tiler that has laid it before. Once it's down, it will never break. Google it, the range is amazing and really beautiful. I did ask the tiler about using it over slate and he said not a problem. Got mine from tile expo.

Biggest Thank you to everyone who has commented and given me such good practical advice for updating my little front patio/porch area. Before I depart again and forget to update? This is how it looks, I am probably at a later stage going to work out how to add a wider sill as suggested, however it does look so much better than before. Such timely advice has given me the motivation to get it done. I have left the roller shades on one side just to allow a bit of privacy from the neighbours and wind/sun. And one day will swap the large couch for something more suited.

I hear you, being a mum is a big job & not for the faint-hearted, hehe. That was sweet of your husband to do all that for you. As your ceilings and skirting and architraves are white, maybe a fresh white would really lift the whole house. There are many shades so my advice is to visit your local paint store and look at the whites. Hopefully, you will be able to narrow it down to a few. Of course, other colours might appeal to you as well, so just see what takes your fancy. Also, have you looked through the kitchen and living room Houzz photos to see if any particular room colours appeal to you? That might be helpful too. :)

@Kate @oklouise and @Julie Herbert thank you each of you for your suggestions. I was thinking about a venetian inside the shower myself as a temporary fix until the budget allows for something else. I figured if I even get a few years' worth of use out of it that'll be enough to get me to a more permanent solution - the idea of the personal courtyard is also very tempting and I didn't think about screens but another great suggestion. Thanks everyone for replying - I started off feeling very upset about my options and now feel very positive/enthusiastic thanks to all of the great ideas :)