I have a shady location on the northwest corner of my house where I would like to place a small deciduous flowering or variegated tree or tree-like shrub about 4-6 feet away from the foundation. The previous owners placed a lilac in this spot, but it has never flowered. So, I'd like to give that one a sunnier home and replace it with something else. However, I am not knowledgeable enough to figure out a good replacement plant.

I love the tiered branching and variegated leaves of of Cornus alternifolia 'Argentea' (pagoda dogwood), which would really brighten up this space. But others on the forum have told me that this tree would probably get too large. I've also considered Cornus alba 'Elegantissima', but that one is more shrubby and I'd prefer a tree-like shape for this particular spot. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated! Thanks.