I'm thinking replacing the gable with cladding maybe in red rock colour (rusty red) and replacing both side fences with horizontal fencing in the same colour. I'm trying to modernise the place but the blue was a similar attempt around 8 years ago so not too confident in my choices.

For the patio cover, what about some retractable options? https://budgetawnings.com.au/productImages/Black21_65.jpg http://www.canopy4u.com.au/retractable-awning-patio-cover-folding-arm-grey-5-0m-x-2-5m-motorised.html?gclid=Cj0KEQjw5ti3BRD89aDFnb3SxPcBEiQAssnp0qH9AeIqM_YoaoT0P7Qj-dUwCooEPRoLaA4OH8OQSTAaAhQS8P8HAQ

I have designed a couple of flyover roofs and they have their pros and cons. On the plus side they seem to catch any cooling breeze as they are more open, and hot air doesn't get trapped underneath and build up. On the minus side you need to make sure that there is enough clearance to easily clean the existing gutter from under the flyover roof. In Melbourne the area underneath stays dry for most storms, but when you get wind blown rain then you will get some rain in under the flyover roof, so it won't be as dry as a verandah. The amount of rain that gets in under the roof will depend on the direction of the wind. It is better to make the flyover roof freestanding, like in this photo of one of my flyoever roofs, rather than penetrate the existing roofing material with supports. For your two options in your Cairns climate, I would suggest a flyover roof would be a better looking option, and provide a better quality of under-roof space, rather than the step-down option (which may block your views). Best of luck with your considerations, Dr Retro

Hi Julie Wow Julie! We have some Heliconia Bihae with Cordylines planted along our back fence so you completely understand the look we like with your plant suggestions, I just need to make sure they will grow well in this climate (north facing, lots of sun). We are on the Gold Coast near the beach. As for the house, do you think it would be too busy to use Basalt on the front fence, Dune on walls and white on upstairs trims? Perhaps with some Basalt on the house to tie in with the front fence.. gutter? Or for a simpler look, Endless Dusk on walls as well as the front fence (include plantings to soften) with other trims in white? Thank you for the trouble you have gone to for this. Liz