I think timber paneled garage door to match your front and balcony door would look great. You could even clad the gabled portion above the balcony in timber also. Windows done in black(??) Another window or glass doors put in above garage would improve symmetry. If that's not an option, maybe some sort of false window or doors? I don't even know how that would be done exactly, but if glass has a bit of reflective tint and is also framed black, it would fool the eye. For colour schemes, I suggest browsing through facade schemes on new home websites until you find something that grabs you.

Yes- that is a very good question!!! I've been trawling Australian suppliers for months for something different. I also need Appliance Pulls (for integrated DW and Fridge), which there is very limited choice of here. Everything here is same-same China made mass imports. I literally ordered my hardware last night from: www.knobbrands.com They do ship to Australia. At least I hope so!! I've ordered them and paid! Without knowing your budget, you could check out www.englishtapware.com.au They stock some high-end UK brands. I did go and view them in store and they are beautiful handles/knobs and fabulous quality. I couldn't justify the $500/each for appliance pulls when I need 4!. It was a real dilemma, I hate it when I see something I love and absolutely can't have it!! I tried some on-line vendors in the UK, and had no luck with them either. I can update you when my handles arrive.

It’s the wall colour that doesn’t look nice everything else is fine. Repaint the wall it’s easy and you want regret it , use neutral colours but not light go for darker and for the corner I would plant giant bird of paradise either in the huge pot or if possible in the ground but keep it well away from the wall to give it space to grow and give you tropical look and feel. If you are using pots you can have few of them they won’t drop leaves in the pool.

always good to please your husband and you'll have a better chance of achieving a good result together....cost will depend too much on the reality of the site to guestimate...we always begin by consulting a builder to check the existing building to see what's possible structurally, check with Council to see what's legal and then you'll need formal plans drawn up so you can collect quotes but i'd be inclined to ask about the whole project as you may have a better chance of attracting an experienced custom builder for a bigger job than just the small extension (even if you negotiate to have the work done in stages ...best of luck