We live in the upper level of a newly renovated 1982 ranch which has a walk-out basement, where my parents live. Even though we have both a deck on our level in the back, and my parents have a nice sized covered patio, my husband still thinks he wants a large front porch. Our current front porch is large enough for several people to stand, but there is no seating area. There are 2 bricked-in flower beds running the entire front of the house between the 2 end portions, one upper and one lower, with 2 sets of steps leading to the front door. (see picture)

He wants to get rid of the flower beds and run a porch the length of the house between those 2 end rooms (the garage and one spare bedroom). I am still trying to convince him we need to consult an architect before hiring a contractor, but I thought I throw it out here to see what opinions/ideas I might get.

Thank you!