The wasteland is a function of the size of large-growing maples, so all* of the above may cause it to occur in time. To get a large shade tree without a wasteland beneath plant an oak instead. White oak (Quercus alba) produces a tall tree with red fall color. The summer foliage of this one is also good.

Note that large trees like these grow over 60' tall. Do you want something becoming that big, or would a less grand kind be acceptable? If you are able to be contented with a small-growing maple then you are able to avoid the manner in which large ones dominate planting areas.

*The first is more likely to fall within the 35'-60' medium height range but I would not count on consistent clearly defined red fall color from it there

Sugar maple would be my first choice.