Hi Nathan - I suggest you use what you have already. if the soil is poor, plant something that likes poor soil like nasturtiums. The leaves and flowers are edible and peppery. Ferns are good in damp areas too. These would have a deep water effect around the deck. Desert plants are lovely with coloured gravel - no spiky ones if you haven't much room. Maybe put down fake lawn so no mowing. Nail up a large mirror to enlarge the view of plants and flowers etc Strong mesh to hold up two vines - clematis, passion flower, mexican glory vine, pandera or a prize-winning table grape trained up the washing line. I did this with an old rotary line so we could sit underneath in the shade and eat grapes :) I would wash the fences very evenly with white or coral lime wash. Cheapish to make. i would experiment with beetroot juice and curry powder (the strongest stain-makers) to get the shade of coral. Cheers Hooley D

Let's keep it nice, I don't think EthanWes is as precious as you may think and it is a forum for personal opinions after all. I also thought the comeback was unnecessarily aggressive & unwarranted. I would keep whatever you put there quite subtle and simple in colour so it doesn't draw the eye. You've got a nice retro/scandi feel from the look of it, see it as another way to carry this through?! So some ideas: - a small succulent in a low 1-2" pot, possibly including a trailing one such as Silver Falls (though don't let it get too out of hand!), will help make it look less compartmenty. Or even Ikea http://www.ikea.com/au/en/catalog/products/40349079/ - a couple of neutral coloured cookbooks stacked horizontally. - a nice low serving dish in a soft grey - but make it one you will actually use, not just for aesthetics! ; D I have a similar one to this https://www.countryroad.com.au/shop/home/kitchen-and-dining/serving/60209668/Tiro-Salad-Bowl.html https://www.countryroad.com.au/shop/home/kitchen-and-dining/serving/60203911-9084/Tapas-Salad-Bowl.html and use it a lot. - or, if you like your tech, it could be a great place for a small wireless speaker. Expensive example, but something like the Bose Soundlink Mini If you're looking for more ideas, 'open shelving' should provide lots though you are constrained with the very low height of the shelves.

the verandah is a critical aspect to the original - I'd advise against altering or removing it- it adds dimension and character to the facade/form. I'd recommend any potential alterations/additions (if ever/being entertained) to be contained to the rear and respect/retain existing character that is contributory to the significance of the style of the building. Perhaps consolidate some ideas/goals and then seek some preliminary advice from a professional who is familiar/experienced (and respectful) to the building type you're working with....best of luck with it :) PD

Beacon and Bunnings are the Woolworths of lighting. Readily accessible, OK quality, reasonably priced, and very popular for these reasons. Check out the website for TecLed, who are LED specialists. They have thousands of specialist LED light fittings, better quality than Beacon or Bunnings, a good website, higher prices, and a limited number of showrooms. As with many things for your home you often get what you pay for... https://www.tecled.com.au/ Best of luck, Dr Retro Dr Retro House Calls/Dr Retro Virtual Visits