Running cladding in opposite directions gives a contemporary look. Many examples I've seen seem to vary the profile width each. ie. narrow verticals juxtaposed with broader horizontals. You could clad base in a recycled plastic timber-look product or composite timber cladding. (Colour stable and no maintenance). Stone could look fab too. Painting it the Farrier would definitely be simplest. You could do a contrast with the verandah floor and its edge.

Thanks oklouise for taking the survey, we're looking forward to sharing the findings with you and the Houzz community. Not compulsory for you to say so in the comments! Happy for everyone to remain completely anonymous :)

Removable wallpaper, a free standing bookshelf a colourful rug and cushions and some gorgeous plants, you can take them all with you if you ever leave.

Working without dimensions and looking at video, the lounge appears to be lovely on the right of the front door. The downstairs is all open but really large. I would close to the space to left of front door to be its own room. This could be media, study, gym whatever you need. I’ve moved the stair to the left so it is not blocking view from front to back from front door The kitchen plan is a thought as don’t have dimensions and not sure what you are seeking to do. Adding an island will prob remove some storage.