Not sure what your budget is, but one option is to rebuild the front covered entry and have it span the entire width of the house, and consider repeating this basic form in future additions such as a garage if there isn't one already.

This is a similar home. Does the architect's response help you? "Yes the soffit is painted ( Resene Bokara ) to make it similar to the cladding. We did it this way in order to emphasis the sculptural form of the house - if it was white it would have broken up the form somewhat. I think it depends on what you want to achieve, if the line of the joinery is at ceiling level then it is good to have the ceiling and the soffit the same colour in terms of how you experience the interior space. If the exterior look is more important then the dark soffit would probably work better."

I understand going with the grey since it is an 80's style house. You could also do bright bold colors. I do not know if that is your style. I have attached a quick rendering of the gray scheme you mentioned. I prefer light colors above dark colors. This keeps in theme with the sky and earth. Makes the house seem more grounded. The dark entry also draws your eye to it especially with the light coming from the other side of the house. I have also attached a quick rendering of a blue scheme. It looks like you are on a beach and I thought this would blend in with the surroundings. If that is what you are seeking. Hope this helps.

Thanks Courtney for the suggestion! Will grab of a sample of the colours and take a closer look. We like a Tranquil retreat or grey pebble but not really not sure about which tones is appropriate, especially if going for the loft/industrial look with black windows. Tried goggling red brick, terracotta roof, black windows and couldn't find much.