That patio needs something large to anchor it against the scale of the house.
I'm thinking built-in grill with a bar/prep surface probably in stone. Even better would be a large outdoor fireplace to one side and change that fire pit into a planter or small water feature.
Other ideas: a large arbor. Or line the sides or back edge of the patio with extra large pots with trees planted in them.

We have a beautiful arbor that comes in a kit . Maybe something like this. We also have a flat top

That area is begging for an open air arbor structure, some hanging drapes at the corners, and some cushioned furniture. Great place!

I imagine a pavilion at the end of the patio, facing the house. It would provide privacy, shelter and separation for your entertainment area. It could incorporate an outdoor kitchen and bar, and could also extend the outdoor living season for you.

Stone walls with columns on each corner w/lanterns around the fire pit area. place behind the shrubs you planted already..

I agree with the comments above about scale - your house is dwarfing what you currently have. You could balance that scale with hardscape elements, with structures, or with the right planting design.

As a landscape designer, I spend the initial consultation walking the space with the homeowners and listening to how they currently use the space and how they want to use the space. Sometimes we uncover a need they didn't know they had; sometimes they talk themselves right out of a costly feature they thought they wanted. It's a fun process and very successful for my clients as we move to the master plan. You have some awesome designers I tremendously respect in Wisconsin. You should search for local pros on Houzz and talk to one. I think it would be the most productive use of your time.

I feel that the firepit needs at least on ering of stone around it. It looks like the fire just spills out onto the pavers. It needs and edge to contain it.

Revolutionary, don't forget that the leaves are not yet out on the trees. I think they will help anchor the area better.

Here is a pavilion that I sketched in your background.... multi-function living space with enclosed outdoor kitchen. Passthrough/bar into pavilion area, which can close in cold weather.

Thanks for all the ideas! Wow! All it takes is money right!? So I should tell you the actual pit is 6 feet across and 2 feet deep. We have considered putting a taller stone ring around the fire but are concerned if people are not careful try could trip and tumble right in. Because its so deep now to build up the ring would probably require us to also build up the inside as well and not sure if we like that look as much. The kitchen idea is a good one. Also like the idea of a pond with bridge between the pit and the house. We also have thought about extending the deck out from the house and adding stairs to it as there are none now. Lots of ideas...

I'm going to add a pic with the foliage we have now. It does look fuller but still needs an anchor if some sort. Much appreciate for all the feedback!

Enuss where are you located in WI? I may have some area examples you could go out and see in person!

We are in Oconomowoc.

Hi! your house is quite large so you should balance it with your outdoor space. You need more plants across the fire, stones / walls as proposed by guys above. I think the pavilion if you build it, should be open more classic style. Not as regular roof.

Hi enuss, lots of great suggestions so far. There definitely needs to be a better connection between the house and the fire pit area.You are correct that all it takes is money, but we work closely with our clients to determine the scope of the project AND a budget that makes sense. We are located in Wisconsin so check out our profile here on Houzz and let us know if we can be of some help. I'm attaching a photo of a recently installed project we did two summers ago in Oconomowoc. The deck was already there but you'll see in the photo that all of the spaces are connected, both visually and physically. We'd be happy to work with you.

James

How about adding some Artistic Steel logs to your fire pit ?? Will make your pit much more comfortable (year round) due to the amount of heat they will radiate to those seated around. I'll attach a couple pics but feel free to check out our website/Houzz for more. Happy to answer any q's you might have ;-)

Jamie
rmironworks@me.com

Here are two local examples for you to view. The first two are in Oconomowoc and the second one is in Hartland. Let me know if you are interested in viewing either of them!

I don't know your local building codes, but I don't think they would allow for a fire pit underneath any type of arbor or trellis structure. Or there may be additional height/safety requirements.

Your patio does need more presence! Perhaps a trellis structure that borders 2 or more sides to create outdoor "walls" without a roof structure over your fire pit. The pit itself would benefit from the decorative steel logs or a border around it. I would fear someone falling in when no fire is lit since it is level with the remainder of your patio. Just my humble opinion! Lovely home and backyard :)

2013 thread

Your patio/firepits area doesn’t need a lot. Maybe just a more permanent patio set, stone or wood bar and maybe a bbq depending on if you would use it. I think it is the yard that is lacking in landscaping. A professional landscaper is worth it in the end. Even if you can’t put all the shrubs, trees in at once, at least you have a plan!