Now Let's Add A Happy Little Cabin

[Polykrates]

Hi.
I'm pretty new to this game and in the process of becoming familiar with the construction tools. This is the first habitat I've made that I feel is nice enough to share. I wanted to show off what is done so far and get suggestions on how to go about the next phase of this.
The habitat itself is about done, though it might could use some more ground foliage here and there:

 

[Polykrates]

And now for the part I'm looking for help on.
I want to transform the paths in the picture below into a viewing canopy that resembles a ranger's tower in the woods. So I'm looking to make platforms with pillars as opposed to an enclosed building. I plan to have a drink stand on top and an educational area under a canopy with and open viewing area:

You can see in this next screenshot the idea I had. I'm basically just trying to hide the concrete texture under wood beams. Any suggestions or advice or ideas are appreciated.

And here's one last screenshot that didn't fit in the last post.