However you hang it, keep in mind that once the sheer fabric falls in front of the back fabric, the sheer will change color. So, let’s say you have pulled back the thermals, but not the sheers. Where the sheers hang over the stacked back thermals will not be the same color as the rest of the window. It doesn’t sound like a big deal until you see it. It is very obvious.

What a fantastic architecture. When you do the brick, if you stain it with masonry /concrete stain you won't have the same issues of maintenance as with paint. They will spray it evenly - through you will have to select a deeper color - either taupe (brown-gray) or a straight charcoal. Love your windows and the classic angled railing. I think a dark gray on the siding will make the orange brick jump even more. What bothers me is the white (railing, fascia, eaves) juxtaposed with the earth toned stuff. So I would recommend camel tones - for the siding - something like http://www.sherwin-williams.com/homeowners/color/find-and-explore-colors/paint-colors-by-family/SW6108-latte/ and the hopsack next darker tone for the garage door. Use the lighter tan for trim that is now white - http://www.sherwin-williams.com/homeowners/color/find-and-explore-colors/paint-colors-by-family/SW6107-nomadic-desert/ Use the darkest tone if you are painting concrete steps. If you think you will stain your brick charcoal, then the white eaves and trim are probably right, and you may not want to paint it tan now and then go back. If your brick were charcoal, then I would block out the rest in grays and blue grays - leave the white eaves, but take the railing and posts charcoal too. A blue gray door - like sw smoky blue.

I would avoid using dark colors in a room with wood paneling as it would make your space gloomy. You also don't need to match the dining room set. I would go with a very light and fresh cream with very light brown stripes. You could also choose something like this (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/57/8f/6a/578f6abfb4e7b991e594b64cf4f2c174.jpg) to add the blue to the mix and have more colors.

Textured linen or with a subtle print wont date. Feature walls make a room smaller as they jump out ar you. Wouldnt recommend. Get some interesting art or craft. Pick up colour with accesories