As an entry, I would utilize that box lid, hinging it to lift and store things like slippers, shoes umbrellas etc, And I would line the back wall above in white painted lining boards about two thirds up the wall vertically. Top with a skirting board header, and install coat hooks t it. It will become a practical entry way, and the decorative timber detailing will always look great. Paint the wall above the lining boards in a deeper, or warmer tone like a coffee to accent against your white trims. Art is ok, a mirror sounds great, but is bad feng shui, and not many guests like to see themselves arriving. An adjacent wall can do that. After all, it will be a room to walk through, and not one in itself, so would make the most of this practical area, and create a space that the whole family will benefit from. Even without hanging coats here, the wall will look interesting and be a talking point, your own cloak room!

So we painted it black to match the other sides of the fence. It needs to be reinforced as its falling backwards but ok for now. I've bought some creeping Ivy to grown over it too and I'll get some boxwoods or similar to carve into spheres or balls.... Also founds some nice light teak / grey bench seats. If really like to do a few vertical gardens here but the fence won't hold it for now so this will have to do. Could be something we add to later. It'll take some time to even look remotely good but we're getting there. At least we have a plan! Thanks all for you suggestions!

Hello, We had the same problem with possums so we started this company. PVC connectors - these can be just pushed onto pipe and covered with netting and secured with our snapclamps and problem fixed. We also have many options such as hinges so you can put a door or a lid on it. Please have a look at our website and have a look at our cage page for many ideas. These connectors are strong, versatile , not expensive and easy. www.klevercages.com.au An example of the framework we also have heavy duty netting on the site for possums.Hope this all helps. Please contact us if you need any further information. Robert Klever Cages www.klevercages.com.au www.facebook.com/klevercages

Ali, I think you are overthinking this, let your back garden be more natural as a contrast to the structured effect of the tiles in the house. I don't think you need consistency, the pool changes the whole vibe of the area so design for the pool to create a welcoming oasis - think tropical island resort. Have you checked with your local Council if there are limits of hardscape you can have? Some Councils do limit this and that will include your roof, driveway, paths, patios, the pool, etc. As well if you want this much hardscape you will need to consider runoff and drainage, particularly to ensure your neighbours don't get swamped in heavy rain or you have areas that puddle and take days to dry out. Consider summer heat too, sitting outside and the radiated heat that comes off hard surfaces, white and light colours reflect heat while dark colours absorb it. As well too much hardscape does not absorb noise - your neighbours will hear all your conversations and noise from the pool will be amplified. If you want that pool area to be inviting, then it needs lush greenery around it to offset this and soften and cool. Carrara marble tiles around a pool look fabulous and would be a great contrast to your dark tiles indoors. The area outside your kitchen should be grassed and include gardens as space for your dogs, even a small tree or two for the environment and to create shade for the dogs. Artificial turf gets extremely hot and would certainly not provide a pleasant or suitable outdoor space for them. I think I would read up on the breed of dog you plan to get also and fully ascertain their needs to ensure you provide properly for them. If you are planning children down the track, they will want a nice safe, green area to play too.