More views

To me the proposed deck seems somewhat useless. What if you widen the steps all the way across the upper deck down to a paver patio with a fire pit? Then put plexiglass railing on the top deck so the water view is not obscured.

Where is purpose and requirements of the various decks discussed? How would we know what the family needs are?

Jck910 I don’t know that I would want wide steps from the top the deck but I like the idea of a different railing. We were thinking of putting in cable railing.

Yardvaark The space will be used as an additional entertainment area with a dining table.
I’m looking more for advice on the aesthetic aspect.
I am concerned that having a patio will throw off the proportions of the house visually with the tall deck on the other side.

Unless you need a paver, stone, or concrete patio for a charcoal grill or smoker for cooking,(me). I would do the deck like you have planned. If anything should be changed to pavers, it would be the bottom deck at the basement level.

Sherry,
I agree that having a patio under the deck may look better and there is a small concrete slab under the deck.
I think water may have been a drainage issue since there is a slope on that side of the house.

Yep, drainage is why everyone wants decks. It doesn't look bad with a deck at the lowest level, that is just the only place I would want one. Unless you put a patio in front of deck two, the one you are replacing. Not instead of deck two, in front of.

Sherry,
That may not leave much room for the lawn. We need to have a place to play games lol

Would have a landing where the stairs end now, and then add landing width steps coming off of it toward the front and to lawn level. Expand existing lower patio to accommodate whatever needs are desired. Does not need to extend in front of left half of home. Landscaping/planting can make up for whatever "balance" issues are perceived.