First, power wash your patio. A clean fresh patio can be brightened with an indoor/outdoor rug or tugs to designate areas....dining from lounging, etc. As your taste changes, you can replace the rugs. Consider, in combination with your fireplace, an outdoor kitchen/grille area. A bar located where the buckets are now located (with running water and refrigeration) might be fun, too. Try painting your brown rails black first to see whether you like that look. Because there is no elevation change, railings aren’t necessary... but you have the structure. Black pots filled with colorful seasonal flowers might look nice in front of the pillars. I really like color of your brick and think it will be easy to work with. Your space is a lovely one and has tons of potential. Good luck!

Thank you so much for your input. I considered taking down the railings too but my dad has some leftover rod iron and I think there is enough. Do outdoor rugs need to be hung after each rain?

No, outdoor rugs are designed for the weather. Depending on your climate, you might want to hose them down periodically. And at the end of the season give them a good scrubbing. For some really fabulous ones, check out annieselke.com. The rugs that she sources can be used indoors, as well as outside. They are gorgeous. I would bring them in during the winter months, however, if you get snow. Good luck with your project!