Cathy, do you already have a concept design or plans, and a builder in mind? Reason I ask is because you can find many examples of this style of home from numerous US sites, purchase them and then download them. Then take plans to a design engineer/draftsman in your area and have them redesigned to Australian dimensions. It's a the process, but during meetings you and designer can suggest and make alterations or changes, and address any issues with the conversion (sometimes things don't fit exactly once converted) to arrive at the plan that suits you. Mynhusband & I went through that process with our previous house and had a successful outcome. Fortunately for us and the builder, the designer's converted drawings were perfect and everything fit together exactly. MB Design & Drafting's advice is spot on. BTW! I just quickly looked up Hampton's style home builders and this one popped up. Sounds like they have their own design which may interest you. Here's the link. https://customhomesonline.com.au/hamptons-in-glen-iris/

@LesleyH I need to clad a small portion of the front of my house that is covered. Is Nuline a cost effective for a small portion given it's not exposed to sun and rain, is there something else that I could get away with? I thought of getting actual timber because maybe maintenance won't be such an issue. But I don't know how that compares cost-wise. Basically want the look of your's and original poster's photos. The windows on right will stay the same size, just fitted with more traditional style windows. And the windows on the left will be replaced with french doors. So there's not a lot to clad. Wonder if, having been through the decision process and actual install, you have any pointers?

This house on the mid north coast NSW http://www.pacificpalmsrealestate.com.au/game/property.nsf/vw_properties/220411

personally I like a home that has a similar style on the inside as the outside, it just makes sense to me. In the past I thought building extensions should be similar in style as to the original, however after reading (and commenting on) Houzz posts I am now coming round to the idea of a modern extension on an older building. But having a kitchen and bathroom in different styles, that might just be to your taste and that is fine - there is nothing wrong with a building reflecting the personality of the owner!