Is having shade there really helpful in creating a cooler space indoors and out?

Too much shade and competition with tree roots.

is there anything to be done with the shades to give them some color?  

Thinking of doing the following:1. finish the floor (sand and stain) to a darker color like cherry wood or darker. suggestions?

I love the idea of being able to totally customize the colors and shades.

Any chance the lost shingle is from the north side or a shaded part of the roof?

the futures so bright we will have to wear shades

Love seeing the darker painted cabinets! 

When you say tree pruning I assume you mean large shade type trees, not just smaller or decorative trees that could be handled by the gardener/landscaper.

Awesome place (if a shade boring for a young professional), affordable housing, listed in top 10 places to live in USA often, has tech scene (research triangle park) with talent pool, 3 universities pumping out graduates, healthy arts and entertainment scene, ease of commuting, not crowded, space to spread out.