any pictures taken from the patio facing toward the grass? More pictures would help if you could.

Here ya go! And my outdoor models ;)

warm and woody

Maybe an outdoor chill station maybe put some comfy chairs things like that

comfy

You know, sometimes a family just needs a little concrete slab on the side. Gotta put those things SOMEWHERE, and it's easy to hose off. The little wall pots in the post above would be cute. Or, can you get some of those planters that hang on deck rails to fit over the block wall, and put in annual flowers and year round trailing plants like ivy? A couple of pots near the grass with flowers? Maybe dad needs a secondary BBQ redwood slat table (you could use it as a buffet, or move into the yard for a bar.) And darling boy needs a cute receptacle for yard toys.

The wood and woodsy look would sure be delightful. The benches and planters bring functionality and charm to the space. A wooden bench and a large pots with shrubs or plants could be another option.

Try to reduce the feeling of being in a tunnel by shortening the paving to what you need for grilling and adding a serpentine path with plants on both sides to yard. The tree branch should be trimmed back for more light and views. A fountain or sculpture should be placed on the back wall next to your sliding doors,

Thanks everyone! Great ideas, has me finally going with creative juices! Man it sure is ugly right now!!!

The tree is actually being replaced with something more manageable and less of a mess.

I'd just like to chime back in and say no side patio is ugly with such cute models on it. :) Lucky you!

Aw, thanks nwduck!
Going to look into some planters for the end of the concrete by the grass. I will definitely post pictures of any progress.

yazfletch, what'd you end up doing with the side of your house? If you're still receptive to ideas, I second judianna20's suggestion. Artificial grass would be convenient, especially since there's no sprinkler access and you have a pet and a child. It would require no water, and yet the area would still be functional for recreation, cooking, socializing, etc.

These are all great ideas! Would definitely consider purchasing some planters. Planting annuals in these containers will ensure color throughout the seasons! Also that could be an area for a bench, if you think you'd use it. If your budget is a little bit bigger, I also really like the idea of a winding path with planting beds on either side. This would really break up the tunnel-like feel and bring some softness to these hard edges. So many options. Good luck!