I also had a bought a semi detached house that had white windows and white render. It looked pretty bad. My neighbours had traditional magnolia render, but I decided to paint my render grey which brigs out the white windows and we have put a lot of soft landscaping into both gardens including hedges along the street and between the house, and planted small trees, silver birch look lovely or consider an Amelanchier. I removed the concrete driveway and put gravel with plenty of room for cars and plants. Both our houses look much better now.

Hi Charlotte Sorry for the slow response. I would think an iron fence would be a bit harsh, and also pricey. Plants are in comparison very inexpensive. You could buy some bare root hedging plants from November onwards which would cost less than a pound each an you would have a lovely hedge in a few years time. I have attached a photo of my house in grey and white:

Esther

I would definately fence your space off, although you will need to check the deeds to ensure you can, if nothing else it will make it more secure, go with the style the house is, ie yours is cottage style, add some tubs and hanging baskets for colour. These are relatively affordable . I would also change the front door, chose a 4 pannel one with glass up top and a different colour with lift it all.

Have a look at this example of what timber windows and doors can do for a makeover.