I think I need a bit more info. This is the front of the house so not a usaul place for entertaining friends since most like a bit of privacy for that function . What you have now is just a mess so yes to removal of all of that for sure. I need to see the whole front of the house for sure. Is this the only entertining space outdoors? Right now IMO a really nice flower bed would be a better use of the space so I will wait for the info.

I appreciate your initial feedback. Here is a look at the entire front of house. We do have a private area in back for entertaining. Since there isn’t much space on our front patio to sit, we thought it would be nice to use a bit of that space to expand, however, not married to the idea and appreciate other suggestions to beautify the space!

I think it could be possible you can reuse some of the stone from the water feature to help create a stable surface for furniture. So you could pull the water system, do a good job with a firm fill, and top off with a stable surface. If it's legal not to have the railing, you could remove it and create a step down into that seating area from the porch. Use plantings and lights to edge that square and create the parts people don't walk through.

I noticed you have a couple chairs on the porch. Do you want more shaded seating below? Maybe put in a swing bench with an awning overlooking the yard. Or if you want more sun, skip a shade and put out some nice table and chair action. Either way, either blend that with your current seating, or replace the current to match when you get new stuff.

Some visual

Do you ever sit on the chairs on the porch now? If that's not a space you currently use, do you think you would actually use a seating area in the front - especially when you have entertaining space in the back?

I think chairs by the entry are warm and inviting (even if they are only for show) - but your chairs behind the railing feel more isolating than welcoming.

I agree that the water feature is a mess (the random rocks are not attractive). Appropriate plantings could make the water feature beautiful. I don't know how interested you are in gardening - you have enough space for a lovely garden, with plants chosen for the type of soil and amount of sun.

@beesneeds - Thank you. I love the idea of removing the railing, creating a step down and plants/lights. Thanks!

@celery - LOVE the rendering - my husband plans to re-pour the sidewalk so adding a path may be a great idea, and I love the plants, rocks and color in your image. Thank you for the inspiration. Thinking of adding an ornamental (small) tree.

@AnnKH - I agree about the chairs and railing! The comments here have inspired us to remove the railing and replace the chairs, as well as creating more of a floral garden to add texture and color to the space, thank you!

Maybe removing the railing is all you needed. A couple of clear seats to watch birds in a raised water feature.

Paul, that looks great and I love all the color!

You need more comfortable chairs and a large, colorful welcome mat or outdoor rug for the entry.