the fireplace shouldn't be there disrupting the view

Have you had the gyprock wall tested with a moisture meter, because this really looks like a recurring moisture problem where it wicks from one location to another, and that can never be repaired really successfully. Was the wall material replaced with a proper cement backer board used for tiling purposes. It this room colder than surrounding rooms and is condensation occurring within the wall cavity? Could there be pipe work within this wall cavity that is leaking slowly. A builder with an ophthalmoscope could perform a cavity inspection, alternately a builder with a heat sensitive camera could identify possible cold areas within the wall where condensation could occur.

Cheese Wine, yes sadly brickies aren't cheap, but reverse brick veneer doesn't dictate traditional terracotta brickwork. There are lots of great concrete block products in a variety of finishes that have a great architectural finish for internal walls. Or if you want to go more rustic then consider mudbrick options. As with many homes built for good thermal mass there is sometimes a tension between wanting thermal mass, but not wanting to see it. Hiding thermal mass adds to the cost, so you have lots of elements to balance in the cost versus energy efficiency versus aesthetics equation. If anybody figures a way to build thermal mass into a home cheaper than masonry, that looks great and performs well then be sure to let me know... Best of luck, Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls

Thanks For the inspiration Julie. I’m thinking we might go with a darker colour for the back wall like one of your photos. I’m not sure if we will retain the jasmine creeper or go with another approach to planting. There is only about 1m between the pool edge and the walll The main view is at the end of the pool and that will definitely stay!