I agree that there is too much going on, however some of the suggestions are costly and in my opinion don't completely take care of the problems. I like the design approach it is fresh and updated. I agree that the chimney cap is out of proportion and just needs a simple band at the top. In order to make the exterior remain timeless over the years, Now Sit Down for a minute, I would make all of the exterior the white color. I know you love red however this will tie the different components of the architecture together more than any thing else. You can still have high gloss red doors and red tile pavers on the ground. It would also be very classy the use white tile in place of the brick look. You could even mix gloss white tiles with matt finish tiles to give an interesting sparkle when you ride by. I like the wrought iron upper railing, but the vertical blocking on the right side looks too heavy. So I would continue the same railing around the corner and back toward the house until it connects to the other balcony railing. This also ties the house together. It would look much more classic to not have a grid in the tall window and instead have a solid piece of glass down to the transom and then from there down be solid glass as well. Glass block in the courtyard column sections with back lights would look unbelievable. I would arch the closed in section on the second level as it would show up more there than the window being arched does, so save the money and don't arch that window. I would either hang a long contemporary light on the right elevation to dress it up or insert a long strip of glass block lighted from the interior to achieve the same effect. I charge for renderings, because I list the materials as well. Best, Leo Dowell Interiors.com

For new homes: 1. Window Height. Installing windows that are at least 3.6 feet high helps indoor air movement and also reduces the heat load on ceilings. 2. Wind/Air deflectors. These can be positioned either horizontally or vertically to redirect air flow and can be installed in the form of overhangs, louvers or slats and should be placed on a higher level to redirect air motion. 3. Clerestories. Clerestories not only provide natural illumination, but can also improve air movement. Since hot air is known to go upward, a clerestory is able to act as a vent and space for the hot air to accumulate. 4. Window orientation. Windows should be placed on the north and south areas for optimum cross-ventilation, unless it hinders aesthetic views. This encourages natural breeze and draws in good air flow into interiors, especially during the summer months. 5. Transitional spaces. Incorporate courts, balconies, atriums and other open spaces that encourage air flow.

Just because you want to use the space below the stairs, do not just add drawers or shelfs unless you reaalllyyy need it. I would suggest go for adding something green to your house. Its healthy by adding air purifying plants. These plants are nowadays available in most of the nurseries and moreover Green patch in the house gives a beautiful look to the house and is also good for eyes ( the green color). Below are few picture to motivate you for Green patch or Indoor garden.

This wall is constructed just 3months ago.Now it's rain season here.so I found it before plastering. Here it's seeing that this wall is exposed to rain .if rain with wind comes .what to say .the wall becomes wet and water comes inside the home through wall by leaking thru brick.This is the stair case wall.and local contractor saying if we plaster cement by tight.water doesn't come.but whatever if water flows regularly ,the wall will be damaged na.pls give advice.what to do .is there any option with sunshade.