square out a pergola off the ease. then i would fill in that bed with field stone or cement to make it a place to actually

Thank you for taking the time with your suggestion very much appreciated Flair Lighting. Do you think a wood deck in dirt area would look good?

Hello Linda,

You might want to consider adding travertine pavers or tiles to your patio. If you have freeze and thaw cycles, pavers are preferred. Their natural tumbled, porous surface instantly absorbs water, leaving the surface of the deck practically non-slip. Travertine Pavers also stay cool to the touch. The same can’t be said about other paving materials such as brick pavers, or concrete. The lifespan of a Travertine Paver is incomparable to other manmade materials – travertine can last centuries, while other paving materials crack and deteriorate over time.

Hope you have an opportunity to take a look at our Virtual Patio Designer.

Premium Select French Pattern Walnut Tumbled Travertine Pavers · More Info

Premium Select French Pattern Walnut Tumbled Travertine Pavers · More Info

I don't know that an elevated deck would look right on your house.

I like this trellis which I believe is attached to the house but the overhead slats begin clear of the eaves. I only recommend this if it is extended to the current raised bed area. I dislike this sort of trellis grown where there is no opportunity for plant cover. Extending to the bed would make vines possible.

This sort of trellis also allows you to have an outdoor curtain. You could get one that was made of shade cloth. You can draw them and still see through.

If you do plant a vine I suggest you research to find the least woody vine for your area. Plants are very cooling. Have you ever walked under a grape arbor? My grandmother had one and it stayed cool on the inside. It was narrow and not suited to a patio of course.

i think pavers would look better than wood. maybe wrap the bottom of the beams with some brick too.