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! :)

Oh wow, it looks fantastic! The black looks so striking against the white, not too sharp at all. Congratulations on the house, you must be very excited to move in. :)

Apologies if I've not used correct terms but I really like the big molding look - like in picture. My husband is concerned it might be dated and also that with our ceiling height 2.4m it might make the room look smaller. - we would like dark timber floors so I don't think this would be such an issue. would love to hear other people's thoughts. many thanks

Everyone has some valid points and so I would also recommend moving the clock to the kitchen wall and place the wall unit under the mirror. Centre with the table with the additions of some artwork each side if the clock with wooden frames to match the clock. Find a low piece of glass or pottery or a runner to tie in the grey shades. I presume u have a grey lounge suite. Change the lighting as to what was suggested by People Space ARchitects.