We are remodeling our deck. We have multiple levels and a pool built into the decking. We were not planning to take the steps all the way across the deck and we wanted to build a planter or bench. However, we are rethinking this idea now and are wondering if we should just put steps all the way across or if there is something we could do in this gaping hole between the two levels.
We are also removing the lattice and putting up horizontal cedar slats for our railings. Hoping someone might have some ideas for a semi transparent stain that will marry the the new PTW, the old that was stained a caramel and then the cedar.

Thanks so much for any help