You would still want at least 1.5 otherwise you risk mice gaps. I would not install horizontally myself, as the corro will not wash clean with rain, so you end up with a wall full of dirty ledges. At least vertically gravity can work, making it easier to clean if the rain can't get to it. ( I hear vertical stripes are more slimming too!)

The roof looks ok from the photos (no sag?) are they terracotta tiles? A pressure wash, reseal with clear and get the pointing re-done if needed- it will be brand new and cost you a fraction of what a new colourbond roof will. wuff- we've just replaced our very old iron roof with colourbond- the builder used roof blanket and batts- I seriously don't know when it is raining now (and our bed is build into a dormer and roof pitch!). I suspect the result is as quiet as tile, if not quieter. What is under the stucco? brick or fibro? I would probably just re-render in it's fibro. The cost of getting fibro (probably asbestos) off would be enormous! The cost of framing up for the weatherboards and the timber itself, equally enormous. The only advantage recladding gives you is the chance to re-insulate the walls. The rest is aeshetic, which could easily be achieved with fresh render in either of the colours you posted. Check out some of the new arcylic render texture-coats, they are almost maintenance free as the colour is in the render, this product is marketed as no repainting. You talk about the character of your area- your home contributes to that. Very few streets anywhere would have a uniform character. I love your cottage and can see so much scope to enhance it's character as it is.

Hi siriuskey, House plans going okay but shelved for a while, when son gets back from working away he can find out more on rules and regulations just so we don't have plans drawn then find no go with local council. I have taken on board your suggestions about the outdoor area re roof I like the slats and they should give good shade. I have always liked the look of ply and we will price that vs other materials. Hi LesleyH, Thanks for that suggestion I'm about to google Bondor insulated panels now

I love the blue but would go white. Wondering if it would go out of style quick, been very popular for ages in scandi/Nordic design, looks timeless