Hi - I am currently in the midst of renovating my home in the Los Angeles area. There was an old deck in the backyard that was removed and I am trying to decide how to replace it. It was about 500 sq ft and the borders can be seen where the posts are in the old photo. there is a new deck seen partially constructed in the other photo. There rest of the yard has brick planters and a pool which are slightly higher.

I’m considering a mortar set brick patio in that area with a pergola over the back end. I have an estimate for pavers but am concerned that they will settle over time. Alternatively, I could just replace the deck. Any ideas out there? A lot of it is just personal preference, but I’d be interested in hearing everyone’s opinions. Thanks!