I usually post on the Rocky Mountain forum, but the job of planning a yard from scratch is so overwhelming, I thought I would get advice from as many people as possible.

We have a new home (red clay in color) and a small lot. We are getting quotes from professional landscapers for the irrigation (which is non-potable), the fencing, the sod, and preparing the flower beds. Our covenants require one evergreen, and one other tree that is native to Colorado. Suggestions?

My gardening experience is mostly with annuals, perennials and herbs, so I am not sure what kind of shrubs to ancor the flower beds with, or should I use ornamental grasses? Where we lived before the builder used the same shrubs in front of every house, so I would like to avoid looking generic this time. All suggestions are welcomed, but keep in mind our altitude is close to 6000'.