Thank you..I like the photos. It is likely to be largely a do-it-yourself job...I'm thinking about replacing the concrete with paving slabs, I wonder whether stones or shells between them would provide adequate drainage, or whether to incorporate more substantial drainage.The land slopes down from the gate and the path slopes...I wonder about replacing the path with shallow steps that curve., and leveling out the whole area. I like your idea of going up, and am considering espailering something on the wall.

Are you standing in a rowboat when taking the picture? Lots of humidity, I guess. Try this in your minds eye: A tall shrub at each deck column below, so the wheelbarrow and dogs and kids can still go beddiebye between them, and continue along the foundation walls as well. You can mix the different plants, but if you choose to, I would suggest 3-5 of the same before introducing another. The lilac, of course, will be the most fragrant; and the shadblow the earliest to bloom. Lilac (Syringa), Shadblow (Amelanchier), Crape Myrtle (be careful when selecting these just by color, as some have a mature height of 2' and others have a mature height of 20') and the Crape Myrtle do not do well up north, if you are on the coast of Maine. Underplant these beauties with groundcover (a flagstone path for the wheelbarrow access) and low flowering shrubs or tall grasses will add nice color and texture for all the passing boatmen to view and smile and wave to you ON DECK above. Ask at the auto supply store if there is a product to wipe onto your railing to prevent fogging of your "wind shield". (as well as your telescope lens) Looks like a great spot for morning coffee and evening Dewars. cascio.offsite@gmail.com

I was thinking a structure around the fireplace so you can still entertain and keep the fire going without worrying about the wind blowing it out. I also think some new grass would be what you need to brighten up the area as it's looking a bit dead (but that could just be due to the cold weather)

I desperately in need of advice as I cannot make a decission.... sorry, pics are in comments as I could not attach them here, new to this.... 1. I am unsure which colour to paint the front door, the wooden has an ugly stained brownish colour, happy to sand or to paint, but mental block about colour - grey/black or white? 2. Thinking about recladding the bricks with horizontal wooden slates as per last pic.Is that a good idea? Not suited? Friends say too expansive here in NZ but i am happy to pay if it will suit the house. 3.Shall we put a deck in front of the french door connecting the entrance, which I would then cover with wood as well to get rid of the concrete. Too much wood? And what about the planters, leave the bricks, cover as well, I prefer to cover them.Input much appriciate as my dear partner would leave it as is:) House specs: 1951 house, render, with the bit of fake brick in the front. The entrance face the front garden, it is visible from the street through trees.I love the good size garden, obviously the deck will take a bit away, hence I would not choose a big deck. My thought deck and then one step down to sit on as well, if that makes sense.Thanks for everybodies input - i am in the brainstorming phase. We are in the South Island New Zealand. Sorry, struggling with uploading pics. I will keep trying to get the photo of the whole house up.Screen just turns white when i try to upload