This has the potential for a fantastic garden. They sell summerhouses combined with shed storage. I've just saved the first one I saw from elbec garden buildings. I'd go for one that covers the entire width of the garden and either put down decking or a patio on that whole top area but with beds for planting. I'd also have a bed where that area meets the wall and plant trailing plants to soften it. I'd have sofa/chairs on the top patio and use the decking for dining. I'm useless on plants but would think about painting both the fence and render, grey and black work well as a contrast to green. It would break up the garden but you may also want some kind of stepping stones on the lawn so as to reach the summerhouse. You could add a snaked/"S" shaped path or series of stepping stones to break it up though. The decking looks fine in the pic, maybe a clean and stain. Also add some potted plants to make it feel part of the garden

Hi. Having seen RGC's comment I can see my reply didn't submit earlier! I would try black on the fence ( have a look on here for others whom have done the same) and grey on the render, some thing like farrow and ball charleston grey which isn't too dark or go grey all over ( paint colours on exteriors will look lighter than interiors when you do testers). If you put a patio or decking in at the top, I'd get the builder to sort the rendering on the steps at the same time. I didn't spot all of the damp issues that RGC have pointed out! I also suggested, and appreciate it a may be a no no but you mentioned low maintenance, artifical turf instead of the grass. There is some good quality stuff around now. If not, you will definitely need a flymo! I would probably also replace the mismatched fence panel unless you cover it will planting.

We'd be happy to help out jill if you are not too far away. Drop us a line from the contacts form on our website, if you're out of reach, say in Aus (we are working on a project in Jamaica)..... no no, just joking - we are working in Jamaica but usually on projects your size only in Norfolk UK. We'd be happy to offer advice if you'd like - on going on Houzz if we can't be of help on site.

For plants - you could have some beautiful Japanese Maples, Herbs and Vegetables, Exotic Palms, some complimentary Hedging, Fruit Trees, Exotic Bamboo, Roses, Ornamental Trees or even Bay Trees!

Or possibly awnings, garden furniture, water features and heaters for some quality outdoor living :)