Looks like the drain that the down pipe goes into isn't working as it should, over flows before water enters the drain. Love the random pavers, these could certainly be reused adding a few more to replace the bricked area all on one level as this would enable a better space for outdoor table and chairs. The pergola is tired and would be great if as you mentioned could be raised up a bit, depends on what the Body Corporate will allow, a couple of see through panels inserted above next to the building would help with light. A BBQ kitchen on the back wall, plus I would try to re swing the door back to it, the door gets in the way as it is, can it open inwards opposite the sink. Certainly keep the garden beds it will help soften all the hard surfaces, taller planting along the boundary will also add privacy cheers

Different manufacturers have different track and sill details. You need to contact the manufacturer of your doors and get a drawing of the section of the sill and track, as well as ask their advice. I would be carefully considering how much water will reach the door frame when it pours with rain (how much protection does the eave offer). It also depends on the existing structure (if you are renovating) and exactly what you are cutting away to lower the door frame. You will run into issues if you have to cut out the edge of an existing slab. I suspect that it is not as simple as you hope otherwise it would be done all the time. So much potential for things to go expensively wrong if you don't plan it carefully to the millimetre. You can see in this photo it is not your standard track, and that a grate to drain water runs parallel to the door to minimise the risk of rain water being blown in. I wouldn't part with any cash until you have worked out all of the little details. It is a general rule of architecture that if something looks flush, clean and seamless then somebody has put a lot of thought into how to achieve that result, and the tradesmen involved have been much more careful, precise and taken their time to get it perfect. All of this costs money.... Best of luck, Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls

Hi all I want a small area to place a table and 2-4 chairs. We r a corner block bungalow, and enter house at rear, where carport is. There is a small step up from back sliding door. Where and what shape should I extend path from. Back door in centre? (Loose some lawn doing this.) Or straight out from carport. How do I make it look non tacked on. We have a low lying roof. It doesn’t have to be huge, I just want to make the most of area/ Add some value too. Any thoughts??

not the cheapest option but consider a low gabled roof out from the existing central section to complement the shape of the building with a symmetrical arrangement and paving continued on either side to meet the existing verandah paving but the walking path from the carport should follow the path you already walk.. probably a curve of big stepping stones would not break up the lawn so much.. ideally the new gutters would be at the same level as the original but my vintage CAD program won't cooperate but hopefully this image will give you an idea and size is only limited by the lowest angle of the roofing