Thanks for that pic Neryl, and the interest - we are currently tidying the space up so we can offer a reasonable photo. It still has the original lino that was down when we moved in many decades ago. We like to think things through!! The verandah is enclosed with casements along both sides - not sure if it ever was entirely open. The cladding below the windows might hide the answer to that. Will get some pics up over the next week or so. Look forward to any suggestions once the scene has been set.

The roof looks ok from the photos (no sag?) are they terracotta tiles? A pressure wash, reseal with clear and get the pointing re-done if needed- it will be brand new and cost you a fraction of what a new colourbond roof will. wuff- we've just replaced our very old iron roof with colourbond- the builder used roof blanket and batts- I seriously don't know when it is raining now (and our bed is build into a dormer and roof pitch!). I suspect the result is as quiet as tile, if not quieter. What is under the stucco? brick or fibro? I would probably just re-render in it's fibro. The cost of getting fibro (probably asbestos) off would be enormous! The cost of framing up for the weatherboards and the timber itself, equally enormous. The only advantage recladding gives you is the chance to re-insulate the walls. The rest is aeshetic, which could easily be achieved with fresh render in either of the colours you posted. Check out some of the new arcylic render texture-coats, they are almost maintenance free as the colour is in the render, this product is marketed as no repainting. You talk about the character of your area- your home contributes to that. Very few streets anywhere would have a uniform character. I love your cottage and can see so much scope to enhance it's character as it is.

In the 3rd picture , we can see the potplants , the artwork and the exterior , and IMO it looks more pleasant than the other 2 pics , which look pretty styled and impersonal . The wall above the second unit ( the dining area ) needs an artwork to balance the TV on the other side , and maybe its just me , but I think the 2 units are a bit light in colour -- in the pictures , they almost look 'fake timber' , a bit lacking in warmth against the offwhite walls , and even against the dining table ( the dining table , even though its lighter , looks better IMO ) . Others may disagree , just my taste . I also don't think the 2 light styles quite gel -- I understand what you were trying to do , but it hasn't quite worked in my eyes . I love the dining table ones , the lounge one is a bit too meh for me .

I think it's too high as both tv and as art work. People always hang art work too high. If it's in a standing space (like hallway with nothing below) the middle of the picture should be approximately 150cm from ground. But if designed to be viewed from a sitting position or placed over furniture its usually significantly lower.