Couple thoughts:

Where are you located (generally)?
I would not use colored rocks with a brick house.
If the area is constantly moist, be sure to use plants that can handle moist conditions (there are some).
Consider drapes or blinds for most of your privacy - they are a lot more low maintenance than shrubs that need to be trimmed constantly. I don't think you could even get a plant in front of the window on the left.
Waxleaf ligustrum is an invasive plant in most of the South, I would not consider it. It also can get quite big.
Fragrance is not the primary attractor for bees, consider avoiding plants with lots of small flowers (ligustrum is one of them, by the way, and hollies are another). Camellias, which have large single flowers, would attract fewer bees. Ferns don't have flowers at all.

If you planted a row of tall sunflowers along the back, where there is no window, you could have a nice view of birds eating among them while you sit at your breakfast table. If you didn't want flowers that have scent you could dedicate this area to plants that attract birds, like fennel - and put a really nice birdbath and bird feeder in this cubby.

Not sure why the landscaper recommended Wax Leaf Ligustrum, Indian Hawthorn, Bouganvilla or Pineapple Guava, because from what I learned they are all drought tollerant and I do not think they would benefit from the moist conditions. I have all of these in areas that do not get alot of water in southern CA. As for Waxleaf Ligustrum...I was given some for free. That is the only reason I have it. I do not like the smell, so I may take it out. Also upon researching, I heard it can be invasive. I see bees all over it at a new housing development.
I don't think the Pinapple Guava would be complimentary colors. Mine is blooming right now. White flowers with pinkish red centers. My sister has a similiar entry and put an arbor with a sitting bench, Then low shrubs. I like the idea of a bird house too.

I think it is flowers that attract bees, but just using Varying shades of green would look beautiful. Can you grow Bay Laurel in your area... it would have a nice scent and you could use the leaves for seasoning. I just planted 2 this year on either side of my garage in full sun..so far, so good. (I am a little worried when it gets hotter...but will see how they go) How about some varigated Leaves... Not sure of the name but I have one with bright green leaves and yellow stripes...It is a shrub. I think Those colors would do well with the brick. Also Burgundy would be a nice compliment. How about a Japanese Maple. ( I figured I don't have a place for one...but it sure has pretty burgundy leaves) I love deep Yellow with Burgundy, then throw in a bit of rich purple. I think they would compliment your brick.
I heard that if the soil is too moist, it is not nec a good idea to mulch it. Daylillies would be pretty with a small tree.
I would suggest Lilac, but I think that would attract bees.

Another option is a small tree with some grasses. I like the look of grasses personally and there are many to choose from. The mix well with Daylillies,(I have never seen bees on mine)I am not sure, but I do not think the bees would be attracted to the flower heads of grasses.

I hope some of this is helpful...I am still learning too, but I have tried to be accurate.

You don't need flowers... Texture, leaf color and shape all add interest.

Just my two cents, Bougainvillea would not survive zone 8 winters. They are frost sensitive, and if they survive the winter, they bloom best after a dry winter.

You should plant an anchor plant right in the corner, behind eveything else. A showy japanese maple, grevillea, camellia... take a look at local gardens to get an idea of what thrives in your area. Or if you feel daring, plant a hardy palm right in the corner. Some of your options include trachycarpus fortunei and butia capitata.