I agree with the suggestion to grow hedges or shrubs on either side of the stairs. I would suggest replacing the existing pots on either side of the top of the stairs which much larger "statement" pots with some interesting, tall and narrow architectural plants to create an artificial "doorway" and somewhat "grand entrance" onto the deck. I would potentially compliment those pots with some smaller, rectangular planter boxes around the edges of the deck (with much shorter, but complimentary plantings) to enhance the feeling that it is an outdoor room (and to prevent anyone from accidentially stepping off the edge of the deck). I would also re-arrange the furniture so that there is a clear thoroughfare from the stairs to the timber doors. And I would consider creating a faux entry feel by removing the blue box/esky (?) against the wall between the window and door and replacing it with a small, durable/outdoor "console table" and then hanging an appropriate outdoor artwork or even a mirror above the table. For example: http://www.bigw.com.au/home-gifts/home-décor/arboreta-mirror-107699.htm This might help the space to feel more like an "entry". You could even go for the obvious and add a "welcome" mat outside the door and/or a painting with "welcome to my/our home" (or a similar phrase) on the wall. For example: http://www.target.com.au/p/wall-words-hello/56300024

if you mean a space to create privacy and weather protection between the inside open plan areas and the outdoor it sounds like a porch, entry foyer or mudroom may be the answer but how do you use the front deck now? ... some photos and a plan including the front and side fences and existing gardens would invite more specific suggestions

Hi Have you considered closing in the lounge patio area with horizontal slatted screening? This could have a gate for easy access, if desired Then encourage guests to the right of the garage by installing a path & gardens - perhaps even another screen with a more ornate gate Grow a lovely tall tree to overhang the gate (pointsiana, jacaranda,african tulip tree) and add a water feature Make it worth the effort by decorating the front entrance with a huge pot, decorative screen on the wall and maybe some more greenery From the photos it seems that the area is sealed?? Add some more really big pots with bamboo or fast growing hedging plants to cover the bare wall of the garage Have fun with your project

Great job Della and oklouise. Blends perfectly with the original design and the view from the top is to die for. Hope you will get nice cooling breezes there in summer too. I confess, I've never head of a moon gate :):) but it is a great idea.