I don't think we would go with a large deck on the front Cantillon only because we already have a large deck on the west side. We would like to use the front yard more for sitting, coffee, fires, etc. Our firepit is on the north side right now, but is so inconvenient to run around to the deck and into the house. Thanks so much for your feedback. Looking forward to more of your ideas!! I will post a pic of the back deck.

when I say dug down I was kind of meaning just a low retaining wall such as the one off these steps, just the edging. We don't really need it to hold back much...

I like this , could be similar to this as you said . I would prefer it to the side . The front door is the main focal point. Need to start there with porch from there that steps down to the right of the house. Could do something similar to pic but more simple as you said.

[https://www.houzz.com/photos/greek-revival-remodel-screened-porch-traditional-porch-minneapolis-phvw-vp~820750[(https://www.houzz.com/photos/greek-revival-remodel-screened-porch-traditional-porch-minneapolis-phvw-vp~820750)

I like the front entrance. You can work with the side porch. If you don't like we can create something more outside .

Your thoughts ?

the porch would be amazing with the mosquitos we get here but I think I would like to stick with more of the outdoor area. I guess it doesn't necessarily have to be sunken, it can be above or level like this

Patio with stairs to deck · More Info

FIRE PITS · More Info

Walkway and Patio · More Info

forget the last pic