I would clean up first. Especially the stuff growing in the paving. Then get gardening with pot plants and start experimenting with different plants and the positions. See what you like and if you can keep it alive! Our house has the sun setting over the back fence and we've done a few inexpensive things to reduce that issue (most expensive were outdoor blinds around the verandah) but for most of the year we just don't want to be out there. It is hard work to keep the plants going in summer, there is a lot of sand due to the difficulty in keeping lawn alive and it is just bloody hot. So, that's why I'm saying clean up, start gardening small and see how you go before committing to structures that might not address the real issues you have with the yard. Just my 2 cents! :)

I would look at colour samples next to actual sample of the schist to be used. Take that to a local paint/render shop and look at them together. Looking at your image, the schist looks to be a golden schist rather than a grey. Is this just the way it has been shown? I would check with the suppliers for the actual colour of stone to be used as there are a lot of possibilities and the colour will affect your colour choice for the plaster. Here are a few websites showing some schist colours: https://www.worldofstone.co.nz/stone-mason/stone-masonry/schist https://wanakastone.co.nz/style/ Also consider the visibility of your mortar and its colour. Keep in mind that depending on your render system, you may be even more restricted in LRV, as some systems require an LRV of no less than 40%.

i changed my setting to OZ as i was told there are not a lot of kiwis here on the forum to give advice:) hopefully some wonderful aussies can help me:)

Looking to plan me renovation and I would like software that will help including render to 3D. Any suggestions?