hi there... ok, i talked things over w/my architect and others and i'm going to keep the stone in front (on the first level about 1/2 the way up) as originally drawn. we have the same problems: our property dips down on one side leaving the foundation mostly exposed. that said, i think you can easily get away with keeping the stone to your foundation level. i think it would look cleaner. i'm wondering about the elevation you posted: are you thinking of framing the windows with the stone? i'm not feeling the love ...definitely do NOT want to offend. i think your home is going to be lovely! i remember seeing it once before, but it was a while ago. anyway, i think the trim might work, but unsure. i know i'm not any help! but, i was thinking i'd love to see those two windows anchored by long flower boxes... filled with color. i was thinking of doing a few on our house and i'm currently looking for long, copper boxes for year round use. do you think you think that might help, maybe instead of the trim? hoping someone else will jump in here who can make some useful suggestions! best of luck gobruno. this is certainly a lot of stress ...but it's the good kind! i can't wait to see your progress and compare notes. i need the help as well.

My builder in FL is recommending Hardie for soffit and fascia. It's the most expensive option, but will the last the longest and will hold up to storms the best. Expensive because of material cost plus special way it now needs to be installed per Florida codes to deal with winds/hurricanes. I'm told aluminim (for soffits) would be a lot less expensive, but only last 25 years or so, is likely to come off during storms, and could therefore compromise the integrity of a roof during a storm.

I would try to match the mortar between the bricks. Looks like a whitish gray

Well, it's more of a technical question as to whether replacing or painting is the better solution. But we're planning on painting/replacing all forest green and cream elements to a linen white color. It's not stark white (like our windows) but better blends with our taupe siding.