Yes we are replacing treated pine with a hardwood this time but I just want to make the right choice. Still it's nice to hear you are happy with it . Anything will be a big improvement I do like the idea of an Australian hardwood that is from sustainable sources though . I gather it's been down a few yrs and you haven't experienced the shrinkage someone else complained of ? Thanks for the feedback . This site is great :)

How about whitewashing the bricks in this entrance alcove? If this idea appeals build on this aesthetic. When the shade cloth goes and you have repainted the pergola, how about a beautiful coloured flowering vine (pink, mauve, white)? The potted cordyline only serves to restrict your available light so pop it elsewhere in the garden. For a pop of colour how about picking up that lovely fuschia colour or a colour in that hue from the bromeliads that are in the forefront of your entrance photo. The two horizotnal lintels above the door and window would be candidates for this pop of colour. It doesn't have to be fuschia but I think it has to complement whitewashed bricks. Your outdoor ight fittings age your home and there are plenty of good designed ones out there that don't cost the earth. The door and window I'll have to think about but if I was you I would google the whitewashed bricks idea and build on from there. Your security door make your whole entrance look very unwelcoming and uninviting but I realise it is there for a reason. If you have a bit of money to play with I would look at getting rid of your present door, the half window and the small vertical one beside the door. Open it right up with a wall of glass, but this is a costlier option. Your paved foyer would fit in with white washed bricks also. Regarding your deck. Too much of the brown going on. It doesn't have to match your house. Tie the house to the outdoor environment and paint your railings in a shade of green and choose a pop colour for the top handrail. Repeat his colour in the lintel above the sliding door. I would leave the deck floor the brown colour. It is what it is and it's very serviceable.

For me...I'd keep the deck the colour it is, may give it a refresh if necessary and go hunting for outside bentwood firniture, you know that curly bamboo kind, it never dates and is elegant and above all comfortable...where many outdoor settings may look good but are not inviting. If the space were mine...and if it had shelter from the elements, or if you didn't mind some of those outdoor firniture protector covers for inclement weather ( when you may as well bring the furniture in...whatever it is..) .I'd also condsider going on the hunt for some lovely old colonial-looking wicker items painted brilliant white, it always makes a statement, always looks classy and is always gentle on the posterior! If you can find the genuine article often you will discover that the seats are made of entwined dried grasses and palm leaves. I'd also go looking at some of those plant/cafe' places...that sell plants, fountains, as well as up-market snacks and are often furnished with wicker...no harm in asking where they bought it...they may even sell it. Its a cosy little space...I'd just have come large comfy outdoor chairs and maybe little side tables. Think of fancy English ladies sitting out of doors watching a cricket match on the manor lawn and sipping drinks...that's the scenario I see there. Maybe even one of thos old tall plant stands with a large green specimen plant....Most of all....have fun.

I love Julie's ideas of succulents , especially the pics with several different ones in the same pot . As far as the grey , I wouldn't -- you look like you like colour and excitement , so I'd go yellow on the pots -- a similar or slightly brighter shade then the cushion on the couch or chair to the left . It would tie it all in , and make that lovely mat look more like a feature too IMO . Without knowing 'the bigger picture' ( what else is 'happening' around that wall ) , just what I see I'd be inclined to add a light either side of the door too -- stick to the same shade as the joinery ( personally , I'd go for a 'clean rustic; style with say 15 squares each side ) , or if brave ( and assuming the guttering etc is probably a similar charcoal as your door joinery ? ) , go for the same yellow as your pots -- add a Wow !