The deck is 8'6 to answer your question. I really appreciate help!

I have never understood homes with spacious glass doors where the seating is not arranged around the view of outside. Is that because if you want to see outside you just spend time on the deck and your time spent inside is at night?

If dining is the thing most important element?

Math:

102" minus a minimum 36 inches behind chairs on kitchen side......and same on far long side?

Leaves you with no more than a 30" wide table. . ... and as long as you can find ( Doubt you'll find ) A table @ 36" will be a squeeze.:) you will probably have to live with and as long as you like

I'd forget all about a fire pit, (not really safe on a deck) , and put four outdoor chairs with very attractive backs to face the view., not the inside.

Or?

Two pair of chairs facing one another w/ coffee table between @ 30 wide each, and even 9" between the two? Will leave you 16.6 inches at the slider and 16.5 at deck edge.....no more than a 42 long cocktail table x 24 deep....

It's just math, when you go shopping: )

Thanks. The deck is long tho? and no dining is definitely not the most important element but it would be nice thank you.

We are completely open to seating inside and out! Very flexible which is why I am here for advise. If you have any suggestions I would appreciate thanks!

Important to note we are in Northern California so we have great warm days but also gets chilly so it won't always been open

Jan-I appreciate your input tremendously. They are running a gas fire pit line for me where we want it. It's not real wood so it's ok

I'm just recalling the fire that nearly took a lake house. Gas, and the pilot and a stiff breeze.

I'd want that FAR from my residence, any of them, JMO: )

They are not the same thing as enclosed vented zero clearance and all other.and at eight and a half feet, I don't see an adequate clearance

AI Overview Propane or natural gas fire pits are the safest options for decks, as they produce no flying sparks or embers and provide instant flame control. For maximum safety, place the fire pit on a non-combustible mat or paver base, ensure at least ten feet of clearance from structures, and choose models with legs to prevent heat damage to decking materials. Top Safe Fire Pit Options for Decks

• Propane Fire Tables/Pits: Popular, clean-burning, and lack sparks. Examples include Elementi Manhattan or Arlmont & Co. models, which often have hidden fuel tanks.
• Electric Fire Pits: These provide a, no-flame, easy-to-control heat source that is highly safe for wooden decks.
• Deck-Safe Wood Burners: If using wood, choose models with built-in heat shields or legs (e.g., Breeo Y Series), which significantly reduce downward heat transfer, often recording temperatures under .

Thank you!!! Very helpful!

A few ideas...

I prefer individual chairs...but a couch works. West Elm has nice pieces to choose from.

PLEASE NOTE: James, who so "helpfully" pointed out Madison Park twice in his comment above, either owns or works for Madison Park. Possibly it's a good resource, but I distrust anyone who attempts to hide their connection with a company they represent. My advice is to take his advice with a boulder of salt.