Add a couple of outdoor mirrors in strategic spots on the fence. Plant things in front of them to suggest additional depth to your garden. If you are worried about the fence, prop them on something low and lean them against the fence with a garden in front. I'd possibly look at painting the fence a dark colour and plant light green or coloured plants in front. I have a beautiful one that has pink leaves that glows in the sunlight. Add a mirror and you could create a beautiful space.

Hahaha, I can't imagine a PRO would give you a hard time in this forum! It sure sounds like you've got your hands full. Gosh. I'm in the states. East Coast. In my experience for this area I've worked with a designer most recently who charged $150 per hour. We spent about 6 hours over a 2 day period where she advised & kept me out of trouble getting a color palette together. We went shopping and she helped me chose bathroom tile and plumbing fixtures, kitchen appliances. She's very efficient and we accomplished everything I needed. She billed me $500 at the end of the month and I pd her like that. I know it can get more expensive and complicated when you want them to choose fabrics, furniture etc.

Hi there, I personally don't like the look of that rock wall with your home. It does nothing for it. I would get rid of it, you may even be able to sell the rock for a bit of cash. I would besser block a retaining wall in its place with posts and render this, then use your timber horizontally slated between the posts. Select a paint colour that works nice with your timber colour and carry the colour through to your house. This will also work in with your side timber fence. Also remove all the plants in the front, just because they are lovely doesn't mean they are in the right place or serve a purpose, you may be able to transplant them somewhere else in the yard. Plants: mop tops are a great feature tree and give lots of shade in summer. A hedge along the inside of the fence would look great, Lilly pilly's are good and Japanese box is tough as boots and requires little water once up a bit. Westringia, birds of paradise, hibiscus, viburnum, Murraya all take heat, depends on what look your after. My average temps in summer are 47 degrees and winter -3 & these plants survive. Yes I also agree with a path from the front to the door. Front door to house could have some timber posts added with an awning/patio to make it stand out. The timber would carry through from the front fence. Painting the brick can also give it a lift if you don't want to go modern with render. You could also paint the concrete driveway, there are some snazzy options available for this, plain or stencil. Best of luck! I'm sure it will come up a treat.

I’m set up in our sunny spare bedroom. Happy with my spot as I have views to the street and a desk to work from.