Hi guys, Leelee we are definitely doing the vintage bits on the wall. We actually have some vintage cereal boxes that we are planning on displaying on the shelves (filled with cereal of course)!. Sarainitaly - I'm investigating thenIkea planner but it's painful to work (or maybe it's just me!). Here's a pic of the walls totally painted green now. Think the shelves will look great along with some pictures dotted around. It's the cabinets now that will b a pain! BTW it was pure enthusiasm that stopped me waiting until the water heater came off the wall to paint - lol. I will have to paint the patch when it's off.

Gosh, I've returned after a week travelling for work to loads more suggestions - thanks all! To respond specifically: - the house faces south so gets the lovely morning (and in the uk, sometimes the only) sun. - the husband has avoided putting plants in the planters due to maintenance and they're generally twee so comments here have confirmed to me that they will be coming out - love the idea of wooden boxes with the spiky plants and grasses - also like the concept of taking out the grass/bed/tree in front completely out and replacing with slabs - yes to lightening the windows - to the Barn company, I honestly don't mind the advice and I'd never seen sloping garage roofs. - nicking ideas from landscaping of new builds....great idea! - finally, Helen Scholes, I'm embarrassed about the spelling of kerb. Had no idea! Thanks again all.

Your house is very attractive but a little TLC is required. If possible depending on budget limitations, I would do the following to soften the edges and add a manicured, polished yet homely feeling to the house: Area needing attention: Front door and surrounds Issue: Lack of a focal point, has no presence and appears to recess into the house • Remove all potted plants from outside the front door • Remove the seat from under the main window • Rent/borrow a water power washer to clear away the moss/weeds • Paint the front door (if wood) a dolphin grey colour and add a door wreath (radiates warmth) • Purchase 2 potted Bay trees (Laurus Nobilis) to be placed either side of the newly painted front door to frame the doorway • Put up a postbox on the wall to the right of the front door • Add 2 external candle lanterns to enhance the ambience for house viewings

I like different colored grey bricks and I am also looking for help redesigning the stairway/landscape area. I was thinking of adding a patio under the right window somehow. The garage is black, so thinking of doing black windows and door.