Maybe a new rectangular-shaped area coming out from the house, even with the garage?

Is front-yard-sitting common in your neighborhood? With such an up-close picture it’s hard to tell exactly how this project might look so I’m not sure if you should have a raised deck or porch (at the same level as the house foundation) or something flat on the ground with pavers or concrete. I think I’d lean more towards a porch.

We can’t see how big your yard is or if there are shade trees. With a south-facing sitting area it might be unbearably hot for several months. What’s your general area - nearest big city?