Maybe post a pic of the whole rea and a bit more info as to what you want to have on the patio not just in that one spac e. Please no fake trees anywhere and for sure not outside . A much bigger step down would aslo be ahuge improvement.

It is really just the area along the house between the step/slider doors and the window where the gazebo starts. It just looks bare even when we have out patio furniture out. I will try to get more pictures tomorrow when it is light out. Changing the step out of the house is not an option, unfortunately.

Agree a photo of the larger area would help. But I would probably do the rectangular plant pot up against the house, or a set of three coordinating or matching plant pots, in three different heights, filled with real plants. You could do a pot of mandevilla on the patio, with a trellis or something for it to climb against the wall. But if you want to do fake, do fake! It's all about what works for you. Lanterns would also work if you like those. You could also look for something sculptural, or some fun outdoor art for the wall with lanterns on the floor below it. As far as the step, the only thing I might consider there is some sort of pretty mat - no plants or anything as you don't want to have to step around or trip over something as you go in and out of the door.

If you go the rectangular plant pot route, I would do something that isn't super low to the ground. A pot in a color that coordinates with the door mat or your furniture would look nice. I have this one that I really like that I bought a few years ago, for a lot less than it's selling for now!! Origin 21 21-in W x 19.75-in H White Mixed/Composite Contemporary/Modern Indoor/Outdoor Deck Box Planter in the Pots & Planters department at Lowes.com