PLANTS!

I don't know how affordable it would be, but I think getting that stump out if the corner and planting an appropriately sized replacement tree would make a tremendous difference.

It would be nice to have more plants in planters, but then you are going to have to water them.

Can you get rid of the freestanding grill and replace the built-in (I assume the one that is there is broken?

One problem is that the floor is close in color to the walls and looks very dull. What is that material? Have you researched the possibility of using a darkening sealant? It might be as simple as power washing and applying a sealant.

It's just an empty space -- plants in planters, seating, maybe a piece of wall art. Get some living out there!

Thank you all so much! I will post pictures as soon as I head back and put all your ideas into place!

lots of plants of varying heights. an outdoor rug. maybe a table with a brightly colored umbrella. strings of lights. what a fun space!

I would add an outdoor rug in a color you like, a couple of chairs with a small cocktail table between. Lastly, plants! Check out hayneedle.com for some rectangular planters and put tall grasses inside from Home Depot. Get some big ferns and put them at varying heights. You have a very cool space!

Oooo yes and string lights!

Yes to all of the above! What a great space!

You need to create balance on both sides of the fountain, which you need to keep. Get a contractor or handyman to remove the benches & cut the concrete on either side do the fountain to remove a bit of the hardscape. Add soil & some plants. Remember, scale! Get some organic elements in there. It could be a lovely oasis.. a mirror( out of direct sun) to open up the tiny space.. stager the size of the plants large, medium etc..

Shade!!!

Palms, beaut furniture, shade cover. Lovely space to work with.