What would you do with an awkward backyard spot that’s hard to use?

If you want a plant-free spot, a small seating area could work well. Pavers with a couple of chairs and an umbrella or shade sail would make it useful without taking on a big project. If the corner is by a pool, the repaired spigot might also make a simple rinse-off shower practical.

I’d remove the stump and fix the plumbing before building around either one. Check that the paving plan lets water drain properly rather than sending runoff toward the house or pool.

For the slope, I’d think about whether you truly want it to be a hangout area or just want to stop mowing it. If planting is on the table there, a broad planting of locally suitable grasses and perennials can be easier to maintain than turf once established. It can also help hold the slope, but choose plants for the site’s light and moisture rather than picking by looks alone.

If you’d rather keep it plant-free, consider a path or a few usable level areas, but get the grading and drainage figured out first. A French drain should stay functional, not just disappear under a layer of fill.

I’d be cautious about trying to flatten the whole hill. A modest path or defined terrace can make the space feel more intentional, while keeping the existing drainage route in mind. Before adding soil, gravel, or paving over that line, find out how the drain is built and where it carries water. Otherwise you could make the maintenance problem worse or interfere with drainage.