Sorry, I don't have any pictures - or a carport for that matter. But I think you are on the right track as the best way to make something disappear is to paint it the same color as its surroundings. Baring any reconstruction, painting both the deck and the carport white sound like the best solution to me. I like your idea about the hanging planters too. However, I think adding an overhang would just add to the piecemeal mismatched appearance. I would probably make do (with an umbrella) until I was in a position to build a proper breezeway/garage sometime down the road. Meanwhile, I think you already have some great ideas for sprucing it up a bit. Congrats on your new home!

P.S. Before painting the carport I'd check with the knowledgeable folks on the painting forum to get recommendations for products that will adhere to the metal and prevent peeling.

Appreciate the reply.

I think, if we get the house, it will definitely go white, which would match the white we'll paint the deck along with the facia. I think it will blend in well. Surprised others haven't done soemthing like this.

Not sure how you'd build a garage when the house is so much higher than the driveway - at least one that would be attached - I'd like to be able to find a way to have a overhang on those nasty days.

Thanks again!