I would take a power washer to it. That would definitely brighten it up. Then I I would tone down the bricks with paint or just a color wash. I used some watered down paint in the past to tone down a brick planter. It worked perfectly.

any more ideas? - any help/ pictures appreciated!

If the power washing doesn't clean like you would like you could paint
the steps. They make some very lovely "outdoor" mats now and adding
some new tall planters would make a huge difference. Click on picture
to enlarge.

Mark that's brilliant! thank you! it's the pillars and steps I hate the most - i was wondering if it's possible to knock the top row of bricks off of the wall and replace with railway sleepers!

I think an iron fence topper would be more fitting on top of the row of bricks. I think your brick fence is charming and would not demolish it but enhance it.

I think it has so much potential. I can see something like creeping fig covering up the white cement walls. Then, I would put 2 really great urns with flowers on top of each brick pedestal. I actually think it looks a bit historical. You could even add an iron gate door between the 2 brick pedestals.
Best,
Kim

Here is an example of creeping fig for the wall and an urn for on top of each brick column.
Best,
Kim

Thanks Kim, great ideas!

You are welcome! Glad to help. I think it would look so charming and elegant. You are halfway there! Let me know if I can ever help you.
Best,
Kim
www.KimNielsenInteriors.com
KimNielsenInteriors@gmail.com

I love the brick walls, tons of potential per suggestions already given. I think the bigger problem/in need of sprucing is the walkway leading to it! Need something more defined, pavers or bricks or even pavers in a bed of gravel, would elevate the whole look.

thanks sharlown, we are getting the patio paved in the next few weeks as currently having extension works on the back of the house - so that is already sorted! i just wanted to try to make it a nice scene to look at when we have our lovely new windows/ doors to look out of!

Hope you show us a final picture of the completed area!

I like your brick and the stone caps and even the worn patina. From this small area of photo, perhaps it's the high contrast of the wall (stucco?) color that is creating the issue. How about painting just the wall to be more of a warm cream, beige, or light stone gray?

i actually like the clean white (when re-painted) of the stucco - it will match the house and hopefully give a nice finished look against the new patio.. this is it at the moment..

eek!