We would like to add an attached pergola over our sliding glass doors.

by Carol O'Grady
(Buffalo, NY)

We would also like to remove the wood deck and install either patio pavers, stamped concrete or stone. Our main concern is how high to make the pergola and what type of patio stone to install. There is no real roof line or gutters to get in the way of the pergola, since the back of the house is an addition. We live outside of Buffalo, NY and get plenty of snow. Please let us know what you think. Thank you for your help.

Dear Carol,
A minimum height for a pergola is 8 feet. This height can vary with each individual situation. In your case, it would look nice to be at a minimum in line with the trim of the covered porch on the left side of the picture. If you like, I think you could go higher to between the top of the windows and the angle where the porch roof and addition roof meet.
As far as a patio surface, you do have some wonderful materials to choose from. Natural stone is gorgeous, but will be the most expensive option. There are some concrete pavers that are a good reproduction of stone. I use Navastone stone tile a lot in a random rectangle pattern. Concrete pavers come in many other shapes, sizes and colors. They make a beautiful patio. Have you thought about connecting the new patio with the covered porch where the grill is located? It would look nice to be tied into the house. Maybe a walk on the other side of the patio would work too? It looks a bit lonely now without a circulation system to it and no plantings around it. A pergola will add some architectural detail and interest as well. Any of the materials you mentioned would make a nice patio. Your house looks like a medium shade of gray. I would lean toward the light gray colors that would contrast with your gray house. Eagle Bay Concrete Pavers have a beautiful new gray color called Jefferson Blend. It looks silver.
Let me know how the project goes or contact me again with any other questions. Thanks, Nancy