yeh have looked at some succulents im not sure im a fan. i only want something small and not to encroaching on the pathway or driveway. later there will be a garden infront of the windows to the right and the other side of the driveway. the better half and myself havent really found anything we like that will be small enough.

if you can't install a permenant fence on the boundary and you can't plant into the paving, what about try some long narrow pots standing parallel to the back of the little hedge, fill them with a layer of pebbles for drainage, a layer of soil to plant some potato vine or similar and use the pots as support for panels of framed lightweight lattice to make a tall fence inside your garden, not on the boundary, a mastching gate across the steps and the porch should screen out all the neighbours...instant screen from your side and removeable if/when needed

love the idea of the very dark walls with a very dark floor and try complementing the opposite window coverings with your courtyard garden...subject to climate and sunlight, consider potted bamboos and azaleas with white roller blinds to look like shoiji screens for a Japanese look or plantation shutters with palms or Aussie natives with wooden venetians or ferns and sheers but always include the window furnishings to complete the outlook from your extension

Hi Ellie, It's always tough down the narrow sides of the house, however there are still good options for the garden bed. It does depend on the style of garden or look you are after. You can go for quite striking plants that work with a mi-century home such as: Sanseviera (Mother-in-law's tongue) could work well there and provide some interest out of the window. Or you could try Blue-chalk sticks (Senecio). Otherwise you could go with native groundcovers or strappy leaved plants such as: Chrysocephalum (Common Everlasting) Or strappy leaved Dianella (Native Flax Lily) The hanging baskets are a different situation and you will need something that can handle hot sun in Summer. You will also need to keep the water up to them. Maybe a native daisy (Brachyscome) Or you could go for some succulents in the hangers. Good luck with your project!