The western exposure can be brutal here even for plants that want full sun. I dont know if you have room but a tree on the side(s) might give you shade without blocking your view.

I am dying to plant a Jacandra somewhere and it is native...

https://www.google.com/search?q=Jacaranda&hl=en&safe=off&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-Address&prmd=imvns&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=uABVUMHPA9Kr2AXNxoDoCA&ved=0CDsQsAQ&biw=1920&bih=1024

Will try. Thanks for your help.

I am all for the pergola. Your view craves a scale reference and framing. You will be amazed at the result.

If you are going for a modern look, maybe you'll like those Sun Shades.

Jacandra looks Beautiful too when it Blooms .

see if you can offer a scholarship as a prize at a local design school- if a professor does a project, then the design you choose can win the tax deductible scholarship.

How about a great patio cover? Not a solid one, but more open so that the heat isn't trapped. We live in a very hot area also, and have one that we love. We topped our with some shade cloth also for additional sun protection.

Make sure it is built tall enough not to block your views from inside.

Or, you could make the interior of the circular area solid, so that it can house an outdoor ceiling fan, and the perimeter more open.

Not sure which direction is west outside, but plant a row of tall populars or cypress. The sun is still plenty hot later in the afternoon, and that will provide you with much relief.

HI -- meera813 -- I put a photo on my idea book for you -it's the last picture ,... that is a good idea for your curved patio . Let me know what you think .