paint the pergola. frame out the windows and paint those leave the house white and add some colorful pots and some patio furniture. where is this house?

It looks like you're in a hot, dry climate. I would stay white (or very light) to reflect the sunlight and minimize heat gain to your house during the summer months.

We have very similar narrow side gardens. Judging from your picture, I'm guessing that you get more sun on the left. So, close to the door you could have pots of varying sizes and similar colour with dark leaf cannas and contrasting agaves potted, which won't overtake your garden because of the pot restriction. On the shade side, I'd plant ferns at intervals with clivia inbetween. You could also put up some chicken wire on the fence and train jasmine. On the sunny side, cordyline show-off, vireya rhodos, hibiscus (beautiful varieties) and bromeliads for groundcover. Good luck and have fun.

Joanna Gains style is fun! What you choose for lighting and surfaces will determine the amount of reflective light in your stairway. The Architect is right in what he is suggesting "a decorative wall" could bring more light into the space. I believe you could apply this on principle....for example you could do a feature "Architectural Mirror"or lots of mirrors on the wall in the right position to reflect light in "Joanna Gain style" then in the same style add an eye catching pendant or wall lights depending on what is best functionally. Remember what you use on the ceiling & walls is important too every surface counts for your situation. Try a satin finish with a cool white like Dulux "St Clair Quarter" or Resene "Black White" Maybe Nancy's suggestions of a skylight is an option for your situation if it allows ? Natural Light is always great. Heres some inspiration...All the best!