The bare wall does not bother me a bit and I think it actually helps to show off the lines of the tree. I would leave it as is.

As to the wall on the porch-I would definitely get rid of it! I cannot see why anyone would put it there in the first place. Your curb appeal will be much better with a more open porch that has visible seating and a table ot two.

Adore the woodsy setting! Just lovely.

100% remove that pony wall!!!! as to lighting, you can combine rustic and modern. I would also look at bringing in some plants that are natural to the area, ferns even. and doing something with the sidewalk up to the house. I would also look at removing the railing that is there, or at least how it extends past the poles, on the right side I would carry the steps around the deck and forgo the railing altogether.

I like these lights because they won't light up the world but give a soft light to light up the area at night. https://www.lampsplus.com/products/possini-euro-ratner-5-and-one-half-inch-high-black-modern-led-outdoor-wall-light__33h43.html

I like this for across from the door for some pretty and to light up the door itself when needed

https://www.lampsplus.com/products/habitat-11-inch-high-bronze-and-warm-brass-outdoor-wall-light-set-of-2__331t0.html

if you have to put railing back or need it this would be a nice option to spruce up the modern approach it. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Vista-36-in-x-6-ft-Traditional-Cedar-Level-Rail-Kit-with-Round-Aluminum-Ballusters-CRWRC6B26M/306809507?g_store=&source=shoppingads&locale=en-US&&mtc=Shopping-VF-F_D21-G-D21-021_020_PR_TRT_DECK-NA-NA-Feed-SMART-NA-NA-New_Engen&cm_mmc=Shopping-VF-F_D21-G-D21-021_020_PR_TRT_DECK-NA-NA-Feed-SMART-NA-NA-New_Engen-71700000086450514-58700007345542375-92700065823634672&gclid=Cj0KCQjwqp-LBhDQARIsAO0a6aL0r9Zw3o9zERN9pEbc8DCLEkwMuzrVYJquF0slOk90zBBbRg97zv4aApvbEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

Then i would add some color to your chair cushions and possibly add a planter by the door

Thank you both, so much for taking the time to reply to my post.

Cyn427, I’m going to go through one winter here, to see if maybe the pony wall was put up to block the wind, but I highly doubt that would be an issue, since we are surrounded by trees. Maybe for privacy. As it stands now, I can sit outside in my robe and have my morning coffee without fear of being seen. Although as you can see by the pictures, it is a relatively private area. I’m going to see about pruning that tree with the hope that it would fill out and be a nicer contrast against that wall. It appears to be reaching for the sun. Not much is growing on the lower branches where there is mostly shade.

RL Relocation, I like your lighting and handrail picks! I need a handrail (for safety reasons) because as you get closer to the house, you are farther away from the ground. I definitely agree about removing the wall.

Lovely home!
If the empty wall bothers you, you can add a wood trellis with some vines.

Yes to removing the wall as well! :)
But certainly take the time you need to get used to your home and see what works for you.

The bar wall doesn't really bother me either but if you want more wood, consider adding vertical board siding using the same wood finish as you will be using for your posts.

Guessing the pony wall on the porch was put there for privacy but a "green wall" of shrubs several feet away from the porch -- bushes that keep their leaves and look good year round could do that.

You could MOVE the pony wall out into the yard with new posts and put a front yard patio between porch and wall and add a green wall beyond that.

Do Aucuba bushes grow well where your are?