There are innumerable ways this could be played with, but I'm just trying to show you an idea of simple, straightforward geometry for the deck without any funky connections or gimmicks. The "octagonal" format lends itself to transitioning space between rectilinear architecture and curvilinear landscape. In this case, the dining area is one level down. With such a concept--and careful working of the grade--you could eliminate the need for a railing around the dining area and not have it seem obstructive of the yard view. Naturally, it could all be built as one level if that were preferred and details would change accordingly. Low, built-in seating flanking the hot tub could protect the deck edge yet not obstruct view. The idea of deck/patio combination is still viable. Karin explained how you could get a feel for how things would seem by mocking them up. It's the best way. Bright string or somesuch run at the proper level would be an easy way to create a realistically placed edge of something. After exploring it some, I find the "kitchen that allows you to face the yard while working at it" has the down side of being obstructive of the yard from the house view so not worth the trade-off in my estimation. A possible way around it is a larger deck. Another thought about it is a kitchen island that rolls about for use and getting it out of the way when not in use. Maybe you're content with it as is, where is. I'd bump the walk farther from the garage. I'm not working with any scale--just eyeball--but the planting space there seems too tight.

Okay, I'm back! First, let me thank you so much for all the ideas. You have no idea how much I appreciate them. I also would like to thank you for your patience if I'm a little slow catching on. I went out to Kirklands Home today to buy a couple things for the living room (another disaster area) and I met up with a teacher friend of mine. She's got the Summer off and her and her best friend said they love to decorate and we are planning to get together in a couple weeks. I'm so excited!! Anyway, I bought the coat rack and put it where the chair was and cleared out a few things. Maybe you can give me yet some more ideas on where to go with this? Thanks so much! Here's the stuff I cleared, can I reuse any of them? Please excuse the nosey cat.

Thanks, everyone! The rocker (and its sister chair) belonged to my grandmother and we just refinished them. I like the idea of a day bed facing the living room but they may be too deep. I've been looking in antique stores for a while and haven't found anything the right proportions. Maybe my husband can make something if I can buy interesting carved legs (open underneath so the radiators aren't covered). And add a lot of pillows and cushion bottom. I would love to put a kilim on the floor but we currently have a litter box under the desk and it gets messy. Our sweet, old Mabel really needs that location so for now it stays. We also need better lighting. The overhead ceiling fan light isn't good for nighttime reading. And 2 of those chairs aren't comfortable which is primarily why the room doesn't get used.

Thanks @deegw, you hit the mark! I think the rug will provide balance but will not compromise the space of entry way. Also just for clarification, although on the photo the door looks like it will hit the mirror as it swings open, it doesn’t. Also the height of the door is 8ft, the light fixture is way off from the door . Thank you so much for all your great ideas, specially to deegw, your suggestion will ultimately solve my dilemma 🥰