For me...I'd keep the deck the colour it is, may give it a refresh if necessary and go hunting for outside bentwood firniture, you know that curly bamboo kind, it never dates and is elegant and above all comfortable...where many outdoor settings may look good but are not inviting. If the space were mine...and if it had shelter from the elements, or if you didn't mind some of those outdoor firniture protector covers for inclement weather ( when you may as well bring the furniture in...whatever it is..) .I'd also condsider going on the hunt for some lovely old colonial-looking wicker items painted brilliant white, it always makes a statement, always looks classy and is always gentle on the posterior! If you can find the genuine article often you will discover that the seats are made of entwined dried grasses and palm leaves. I'd also go looking at some of those plant/cafe' places...that sell plants, fountains, as well as up-market snacks and are often furnished with wicker...no harm in asking where they bought it...they may even sell it. Its a cosy little space...I'd just have come large comfy outdoor chairs and maybe little side tables. Think of fancy English ladies sitting out of doors watching a cricket match on the manor lawn and sipping drinks...that's the scenario I see there. Maybe even one of thos old tall plant stands with a large green specimen plant....Most of all....have fun.

A grey colour with a green undertone could work nicely... this way working with the green fencing and trims. sample pots are definitely a must so you can play with strength of grey and ensure correct undertone. If budget allows vertical cladding could transform the space further and create visual height...

Composite decking such as Modwood is much more practical! Timber is a lovely natural material, however you have to finish it and then worry about the maintenance down the track. If you want to avoid stains leaching everywhere than composite decking is definitely the answer. As an initial outlay, it is 2-3 times more expensive.... You will get this cost back down the track when you don't have to refinish it every 12 months!

Unfortunately Daniel, "trends" seem to overlook commonsense. I'm very sad for this house - another lot of bricks buried under grey paint to need maintenance for ever more. Sorry Elisha.