Where do you live? Are you experiencing a drought?

Go to a local nursery and talk to the staff about your plans. They'll be able to advise you on suitable plants for your area and lifestyle.

Where do you live? Are you asking for plants just for this immediate area or landscaping the entire yard?

Adirondacks are a good staple. We like Lakeland Mills. You can get them on Amazon for a reasonable price, including swings, loveseats and rockers. You have to put them together though, but it's not too hard. Lowes has some decent concrete curved benches for about $50.00. They are heavy. If you wanted 4 or 5 of them, transporting them may be a problem unless you're willing to shell out for delivery. You could also consider a retaining wall surround with built in seating if you're up for some more work. Another idea I saw on Pinterest was a swing gazebo surrounding a firepit. The frame is octagon shaped and 5 bench swings hang from the top beams. The name of the board I saw it on is Outdoor Galore by Diane Stinson. It does not look complicated at all to construct. As far as plants, the firepit can attract mosquitoes so you may want to google plants that repel them. The overall shape and the rock pathway also makes me think moon garden. Flowering plants all are white and you add rocks and moon themed decor and art. Red twig dogwoods might be nice. They don't get too tall so no overhanging branches to worry about. They have white flowers in the spring, red leaves in the fall, and the stems are red throughout the winter. They're also natives so good for the environment and wildlife. Good job so far! Good luck and have fun.

Thanks so much for the ideas! I am in Atlanta area and we are experiencing slight drought. Can't wait to share final product.

Have you considered adding a small gazebo or pergola to the space?