Any ideas on how to update the exterior? Would new windows be sufficient or should we consider cladding? Any ideas on cost of latter

Properly executed cladding should not cause any issues, but I have personally seen first hand that badly installed cladding literally destroyed a building structurally by creating a great environment for fungus to spread. Before making your decision you might want to go over this official guide on cladding: http://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/20130726-1707-25045-0913/chapter9.pdf It gives a lot of information on how cladding works, behaviour of water on cladding etc. I would personally never use cladding, but I have seen cladded buildings doing absolutely fine for 25+ years. Saying that they were in mild climates with no coastal winds or airborne salt. I'm not an expert on cladding or coastal properties. Insulation on an old house is always a good idea, as it really helps with cold spots and can greatly reduce fuel bills. With smooth render, you can also add additives to it to help inhibit salt, which would increase its lifespan in your area.

I agree - this house is true to its period. You could spend a fortune creating a different look but why? Take up a lot of that block paving and plant a garden. You’ll get a lot more pleasure from that than grey cladding or whatever. With the added bonus that when you look out through your large windows, you’ll actually see what you spent your money on.

Thanks Sabrina and Sarah- I think that would look much better to square it off. But then may be disproportionate to the room. I think a builder could be a good idea. Sarah the only place there is a vaguely similar stone is on the patio. Do you think this has been stuck on- so maybe could pull off? Just there are some indented shelves on the stem on the chimney.