If some new outdoor space is part of your summer plans, consider some of this advice.
Planning is everything. Working with a landscape architect or deck designer will help you devise a look that suits your needs. I am a fan of hiring these folks independently so the finished design is yours. That way, you are free to use it with several installation contractors to get your best price. While using a design-build firm keeps things cleaner, it can pigeonhole you into the same-old, same-old when it comes to design and materials.
Once the layout is done, you have lots of choices. For a deck, you have wood, synthetic blends, even PVC. The hot choice is Ipe; it is very dense and has a very rich look. 
For me, if you are going to go natural then you have to consider redwood. There is nothing, in my opinion, as beautiful as a redwood deck. Just know that the rich color you see the first day of completion will not last. The wood will darken to a grey color, the same with Ipe. But with a yearly cleaning you can bring that color back.
Both woods resist rot and bugs and hold up well in our climate. In fact, redwood is described as “the wood of a hundred years.” Talk to your installer about hidden fasteners, so that no nail or screw holes are seen on the surface of the deck. Installation will take longer but the finished look will be fantastic.
For your patio, there are many choices beyond concrete pavers. Clay pavers offer a rich texture and deeper color. Blue stone, flag stone and granite can define and make a statement when spending time outdoors. Just know that, no matter the finish surface, the base is the key. Your installer should be providing a 4- to 6-inch compacted stone base with setting sand on top of that to ensure a solid installation.
A yearly sealing of the stone will keep the color true and make the surface easier to keep clean. Chances are your town or village will require permits for this type of work, so plan accordingly and then get outside and enjoy yourself.
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