So recently I fancied playing HL2 (on hard) again...I know there were some HQ texture packs but I ended up finding this:
http://www.cinematicmod.com/
I'm not sure on the new models...but liking the look of everything else. I can't try it out just yet....because the thing is bloody 8+GB!
edit: It pretty much changes the whole HL2 experience, so I think I'll play default HL2 first then have a mess with the mod.