I love this octopus chandelier but I would spray paint it pink. Just so much more FAB

Hi. Great spot! When we had an acreage first thing I did was to start closest to the house with easy water able stuff so that there is something there to look at from your windows that gives you impetus to go further. However, you could also figure out where you want to be walking to and your views and needs (big veggie patch, orchard etc) and begin by setting out pathways leading there. Always taking account of that run off issue too. Once those are in, you can get your trees ( for shade as you walk) and any other plants you want or make beds or ponds etc - perhaps your paths could make a loop that takes you back to the house? Also think about watering needs and access to irrigation points. ahh am I ever envious - but too old now!

Homes don't have to be made low maintenance - regular cleaning keeps a home maintenance free. Cleaning as you go or regular dusting and vacuuming keeps housework minimal so nothing is a huge effort. Squeegee the shower after use for minimum cleaning for example. If you don't have a place to store everything, then maybe look at just what you are trying to store and how much you really need. I can't visualise "hidden" areas that accumulate junk, maybe they should become storage areas so necessary "junk" can be stored neatly. Weeds can be kept to a minimum in gardens with mulching, which is also good for water retention, most trees need regular pruning and drop leaves and twigs regardless of whether they are evergreen or not so they aren't exactly non-maintenance, sure there are a lot of plants that need little watering if one is short on water, but that is good for the environment too. Specific plots for vegetables is a sound investment or flowering plants just to pretty up the garden are not a lot of work and if water is readily available a sprinkler system can take the drudge out of that. The garden is good therapy for reducing stress and if approached that way can only benefit our lives.

So many great suggestions here for you! What a fabulous house to work with. I would extend the pergola out to where the BBQ is, but scrap it. I also suggest replacing the brick paved area with large creamish pavers & use the bricks to pave the path in a bit if a curve. Utilize the curved area for seating widening the steps as suggested. A couple of large pots with citrus either side. These could be planted later as the garden progresses. Also a grape vine or wisteria planted to grow over the pergola would give summer shade & let light into the house in winter. I would screen the granny flat with either a few hardy bushes or a lattice type screen & grow a passion-fruit, kiwi fruit or climbing rose. If you don't like the climbing thing something structural like yucca's or cordylines, both low maintenance - talk to your local nursery, they are the experts. They may offer garden design too. Also have a look at http://plantselector.botanicgardens.sa.gov.au/ Just put in your postcode & you get a list of plants with pictures, descriptions etc. Enjoy your garden room. Good luck.