Happy February down there. We just had another snowfall, only an inch this time, two weeks ago we were blessed with 36 inches (a meter of snow - ouch). I agree with bits and pieces of the above. The simplist would be to deck the entire area, with lots of interest in the woodwork, as georgio suggested. To reduce costs, have someone design the carpentry, install all the support posts and beams, and let you do all the decking and handrails. Because everything is so rectangular, I would want to see a series of artful curves, and steps that are indirect. Consider that the rush to the pool is incidental compared to all the other activities to be considered in that small space. Ask each member of the household to write out their individual desires for activities not present in the back yard, and that all wishes will be considered valuable to consider. Perhaps you wish to add some more of that handsome fencing to add security, so you don't have to be constantly on guard when family or friends are present. The vegetable and herb garden can be just as happy in large planters or in individual containers on the decking. Plain terracotta pots will blend in better than the more decorative glazed beauties. If planting trees for shade, the evergreens will cause less of a leaf problem in the pool. analyze first, then plan

I am no expert but won't building up your backyard take more fill and may create drainage issues around your house, unless you are also planning a retaining wall?

Having undergone the same process in the past 12 months (and discovering that the entire cost can be very expensive), I'd suggest bluestone pavers for the concrete edge with a rounded coping (edge), merbau decking to fence and use the same material for retaining walls. Glass fencing is the trend but you'd get away with the cheaper option of metal fencing plus less cleaning! For plants, consider the splash zone and pool water type (salt or chlorine?) as well as spreading of roots (some bamboos are renowned for damaging pools and plumbing!) and leaf litter in/around the pool. Unfortunately unless you've got carpentry and paving skills, it will cost you. I did the planting myself but was ~$15k for smaller area but all bluestone + glass fencing for a 9x4m pool in Melbourne. Good luck with your choices - it makes a huge difference to the enjoyment of the pool to finish it off properly :-)

Gosh yes pebbles and pools don’t mix well. You need to keep a higher edge around pool from the surrounding ground, at least the area outside your pool fence to minimize overland water flow into pool during storms. The type of surface depends on your budget. I would keep the larger area fairly simple and dress up the smaller pool surround for feature. This work is not cheap so best getting a landscaper involved to ensure it meets your needs