A deck

Hi Maxine. I think a deck would be great. I can't see the side of the house but if there is a doorway there you could start the deck on the side, not so wide but more like a porch and then have it wrap around the back. Once the deck is done you can make flower beds round it adding flowers and smaller shrubs and maybe a water feature. Good Luck!

You’ve certainly plenty of room. I’d call contractors for estimates and ideas. You can then decide whether you want to DIY or bite the bullet and spend the money. An educated decision.

It looks like a DIY would be fairly easy since you’ve nice even ground. Lots of specific advice on Google and Pinterest. Do your homework there too.

There is a ton of information on the web on how to build decks. Yours would be very easy. Use pressure treated ground contact 6x6 boards to lay across the ground at 18 inch intervals. Make sure they are level. Lay composite decking perpendicular across the 6x6s. Drill pilot holes and secure with deck screws.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smtENP3pSbo

A deck would be great! If you do the deck be sure to use Penofin stain products, it is the best stain I have found. Be sure to maintain it once every 2 or 3 years to keep it looking beautiful. Or pour a concrete patio that you don't have to maintain.

Looks like a great place for both. Suggest you check your building and safety/code compliance for construction code to follow. Lumber sizes, spacing, railing and stair requirements, a permit may be required. Then decide if you will open a door from a room in the house. The deck size desired then you can plan your shrubbery beds. If this will be a diy project check youtube for instructional videos. Pinterest has many photos of deck ideas and railing styles. Hope this helps

You'll be amazed at how a deck becomes an extension of your home. My deck has "zones" which I decorate and rearrange the furniture for different seasons. Our deck has expanded our living space.