So you have some nice land. To create the unity you could either extend the deck to about 18" from the concrete driveway and plant something like purple fountain grass, which will grow tall and spill over to each side and soften the edges. Then it won't feel like a strip of green grass in between the driveway and the house. and you can have one or two walkways through the fountain grass to the house deck - maybe even have an arched arbor that goes right onto the terraced area. I am in favor of paved or deck areas because it makes it so much easier to deal with lawn and watering. Half my 7000 square foot back yard is slate tile and i LOVE it. There's half the yard I don't have to water and I grow drought resistent plants in pots all over the patio.

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You have a great space! you just need to dress it up. You have to much concrete and grey textures that need to be treated. Start with by painting the wall in a warm white. It will create a more ample feel, and then install parcial treatments of wall garden threllises. Such elements can do wonders for an outdoor space, creating interesting focal points. Another element to make a more amable space are the use of planters and plants. In the corridors and between the columns you have a metal enclosure system which can be save for kids. But you can dress it by placing long low rectangular planters, at every other segment and plant vines. They will grow on top of the metal bars and you will have a beautiful space!

This residence in East Atlanta wanted to redo certain aspects of the backyard to enhance the usability of the outdoor space. We started by renovating an existing deck. (BEFORE) All of the old wood was removed and replaced with new wood. The railing was replaced all the way around the deck and the pickets were replaced with aluminum instead of cedar. This really adds a beautiful finishing touch and enhances the quality of the structure. The old stairs were very steep and difficult to maneuver. We replaced them with new steps the lengthened the run which eliminated the steepness of the old steps. In addition to the deck work, we added a flagstone patio, fire pit and a seat wall. The flagstone we used is a Tennessee variety that creates visual interest as no two stones are alike. We chose 3 inch stones which will ensure the durability and longevity of the patio. The wall encloses one side of the fire pit which defines the space while providing instant seating and beautiful texture. Another added feature is cap lights inset under the capstone of the seat wall. The cap lights add beautiful accent lighting to the patio which compliments the light when there is a fire but also when there is no fire going it allows the customer to enjoy the patio on its own. Finally, we included a feature that is unique but becoming more popular, the sunken fire pit. Pictured here, the fire pit is sunken in the ground as opposed to above ground sitting on the patio. This provides complete visibility and enjoyment of the fire while not obstructing the view of the fire with an enclosure. To see more of the completed project follow this link to our page http://www.houzz.com/projects/2259960/new-backyard-hardscapes-in-east-atlanta