I have miles of decking at two houses. All timber when put in the Australian sun will suffer. When building our beach house we decided to go for Spotted Gum and let it grey. Why fight it? We applied Cutek, and will on a regular basis. At our main house we have lots of Merabu or Quilla. Will not grey the same, and leaches lots of red stain. Cheap, but would not use again. What ever you use, use a good quality oil that seeps deep into the wood not a traditional stain/or top finishing product.

Check out this story from Houzz - I commented that I used to worry about mixing too many woods until I read the article.. http://houzz.com.au/sr/m=7/u=L2lkZWFib29rcy81NjI5NTA4NQ==

Hi helke, how different we all are, I think your door is fabulous, by adding clear glass to the side, you will look at your door in a new light , to have such a unique door, you are very lucky. Also by adding decking and landscaping you will love the contrast the render will give to the overall look,you will love how the different textures will blend together to give a beautiful look, but we are all different and you should do what makes you happy every time you walk up your garden path to your home.

I think if you want a modern table re-sell this one and start again. The old fashioned style rosewood/mahogany tables which were French polished were very popular in the 80s and 90s and some people who have old homes still love them. I think there is no point trying to completely change it because the leg style etc is still old fashioned.