SFGate

7j DESIGN Instead of hiding the egress window I would make it part of the landscaping design. I would build up the area on the right to the wall on the right and to the downspout on the left keeping the same slope as the window and create a design with low lying plantings in a combination of different greenery or riverstones and dark and white stones. I would add some in the front to extend the design below the window to bring it in line with the edge of the side door.

Karen Fontaine I want to make it not so noticeable. I was thinking of making that patio an area to relax reading etc, potted plants etc

sjkingston What does the window lead down to. In addition to being an emergency exit, does it deliver needed light to the room below?

Bargain Backer Some garden furniture may help.
http://www.bargainbacker.com/Garden_c_7.html

fbal I'd do slim squarish teracota plant Garden around the window and plant some "wheat" like decorative plants in it to hide the window completely from view without blocking any of the sun light

Karen Fontaine The window leads down to a family room in the basement..it does bring in lots of light and is used as a escape..it is code here but very ugly..

Naomi Frash You could build a little seat over it that can lift up. Alternatively a decorative trellis with gate around it.

kgarrison1 I would visually create 3 squares/rectangles, with 1 of them being the window. This could be with simple decking, interlocking retaining wall bricks, or a long low bench and some planters. I would also make that wall more interesting, and thus the window less noticeable--window box, wall hanging planters, art, tiles, or even framing out some shapes on the wall and painting a different color. Definitely dont cover the window! I cant add the pics i found here, so I will try again...

kgarrison1 I still cant, but just look up "bench with planters" on the photo search page of houzz and tons of great images come up that you can use for inspiration on any budget!

OnePlan I would have a wooden crate made that fits totally around the hatch in a U shape - have it the same height as the highest point of the hatch and stained / painted in the same colour that you will be painting the exterior of the house .

With a couple of shelves on the wall and a 'veggie patch ' sign this would draw the attention away from the hatch and as long as you keep the plants low level ( ie herbs ) it won't impede the light into the basement !

And will give you a great place to grow herbs for cooking with !!