updating old modern...

I've been lurking arund these boards for the last year, and I'm finally ready to jump in.  I was planning to build a new modern or prefab home from the ground up, but I found a great existing home that needs lots of TLC!  It's a 1956 2-story modern styled home on a large wooded lot.  I love the open-riser stairs suspended from the ceiling, the double sided fireplace, and the wall of windows/glass doors overlooking the yard.  However, the house has a few challenges, and I would love some feedback....

1.  The exterior is vertical wood siding.  I was thinking of adding some 12x12 slate tile under/above the windows, on the pillars holding up the flat roofed overhang, and around the carport which I am coverting into a 2 car garage.  I'm in Maryland, so I will have to deal with winter.  Any thoughts?  The picture below is my inspiration. I've seen it in person in Arizona... I like the clean, earthy look.

 

2.  There's a large retaining wall in the yard, around  about half the house in cinderblock... stacked "square", like a spread sheet.  I can't afford to replace it.  Should I.... slate it?  stain it?  stone veneer?  leave it? 

3.  I want to have stained concrete on the floor in the powder room.  Anyone ever laid down a skim-coat themselves?  If so... did it turn out... or do you wish you hired an expert.

4.  I want to use a recycled rubber flooring in part workout/laundry/storage and mud rooms.  Any suggestions on where to buy... cost effective?

Thanks for any feedback... 

Photos of your "old modern" would help a lot to answer 1. and 2.

here's an exterior picture... you can barely see the retaining wall mentioned in number two.  When i move next month, i'll add more pics

thanks

here's another angle outside

Previously adam may wrote:

here's an exterior picture... you can barely see the retaining wall mentioned in number two.  When i move next month, i'll add more pics

thanks

Mid-century moderns are not that common and very unique. You may actually lower the value of your property, if you change it radically. Why don't you try living in it for a year or so first, before you make decisions. www.lottaliving.com/bb has a bunch of forums about MCM houses.
The flooring changes aren't dangerous, but houses with original siding, lighting, and cabinetry are greatly sought after. We have an Eichler and there is an entire cottage industry devoted to replacement parts. Cruising around our neighborhood will show very few houses with "improvements" that actually improve the appearance of the house.