I did set up account on Qtect, I am not sure the service offering at QTect provides the adequate level of interactivity for me to submit a detailed design brief. Good sales pitch though, but I am not sure I would be able to set and convey my expectations however the propective designers budgetary need is already baselined right from the onset, which equates to a one way street, what if the 3 options (from all the designer proposals) are all rubbish, I am not sure it is a good idea to commit to paying for work that does not involve focused consultation.

Hi All, Here's an update. The hedges have settled in nicely over the last 4 years (has it really been that long already?!) They had a trim at the weekend, not the best time of year to cut Phontinia I know, but they had gotten a little out of control.. I intend to add a gate over the next few months and continue to plant the beds along the house. They currently have hydrangea and French lavender plants (oh and the odd azalea) in them but need more. Also going to plant a border of box around each of the beds the trees on the lawn are in - hence why these look a little scruffy at the mo.. I've considered growing something on the walls, but still not sure what or how. Each summer I add two hanging baskets either side of the front door - which help break it up a little. Still very much a work in progress (aren't they always ;-) ) but I like it. Thanks for all the comments, ideas and suggestions - much appreciated!

Hi Stacy. I think weatherboarding will work for the look you're after. Would you paint it all one colour? My only worry was whether it would all be a bit one dimensional and whether the boarding would make the ground floor look lower ( I've drawn it out though and it doesn't seem to make any difference but that could be my lack of drawing skills!) I wonder if you could add a porch with weatherboard like this with either side of the front rendered and painted? The porch doesn't have to be as complex/expensive as this with the steps etc. I've had a similar size ŵall rendered and it was about £150 from memory so the cost would really be for the porch. Can you or your husband draw? It may be an idea to sketch out various options (with colour!) to see what you like then get quotes on the various options http://linleydevelopments.co.uk/portfolio/bungalow-to-a-chalet-style-conversion/#prettyPhoto[portfolio]/1/

I'd paint the tiles dark grey. What about planting up the two square bits at the front of the drive with something evergreen in the middle and coloured trailing plants at the front. Then some dark grey troughs or planters with a similar planting scheme by the wall. That way, the eye would be drawn away from the actual bungalow itself to the attractive plants which would brighten things up considerably. Get rid of the existing shrubs which look to be old and unruly. Put a large, modern door number (possibly illuminated) on the wall. Look at Etsy - there are loads on there and you'll be spoiled for choice.