Why not keep it simple & have a nice sculpture or ornamental pot surrounded by ground covers You could add some large round rocks surrounded by ground covers like star jasmine, black & green dwarf mondo grass, lomandra, native violet etc & a low wide bowl type water feature & maybe just one architectural feature plant rather than a climber. Pony tail palms are very hardy & not every one's cup of tea but they store water in their bulb and are interesting plants that look after themselves. If it is dry then you will need to choose plants accordingly and to suit your house style and you would need to watch out for invasive roots or have 2 or 3 plants in large pots half buried in the slope that can be watered & leave the rest as ground covers.

Hi, I know this is a long time after your first notes but I can't help but comment. I love the idea of the shallow wall that goes to the ceiling with a ladder. We lived in a home where the refrigerator was outside on the porch due to lack of space. With very few cupboards, I did a couple shelving units built between studs like that. I measured the height of each shelf away from the one above it with my canned foods. Turned out great and it is amazing how much those 2 little shelves could hold. I also want to say that I don't know building codes in your country but I agree that you should get at least 3 other quotes. With a concrete wall you can put electrical in that area. You can just have them use metal, electrical conduit. It does show (toe kick works, too!) but it is very non-invasive and should be cheaper. I really love the kitchen that Edith Martins posted. It is such a little gem. I can just picture myself working in that lovely place. Go slowly with your renovations. Listen to all thoughts and suggestions. In the end, this is your money you are spending and your home, so be sure to do what makes you happy. Lastly, there is NO box that you have to work within. Look online, watch Tiny House shows, go to architectural websites for ideas. Do YOUR thing. And, please post pictures when you are done! Best.

Congrats on choosing blocks for your garden bed. If you're looking for trees, I suggest considering a maple tree. They grow nicely over time, providing shade and privacy. I recently moved to a new house myself, and I'm also exploring plant options. Back in my hometown, we had a reliable tree service that helped us with planting and maintenance. Maybe you can find something similar in your area. I came across this website, https://www.deepdale-trees.co.uk , which might be helpful for you. They offer a variety of trees and services.

I agree with MB Design. The less done the better for now, I reckon. It will cost quite a bit to landscape this space and if nothing is to be added that gives shade, not sure if it is worth spending a lot of money for now. Some psitostroms (or however you spell those Neighbour-be-gones) along the fenceline - or even instead of a fenceline - is as good as an idea as anything for now. A cluster of multisized succucents amidst a little rock garden of sorts in the centre will at least stop anyone parking on the lawn.