If your location is somewhat protected from wind (and courtyards tend to be), then you could try either crossvine (Bignonia capreolata) or trumpet vines. Both are evergreen. Note that they do appreciate some sun. Also, I believe akebia is evergreen as well. All 3 of these are bloomers as opposed to something like english ivy, which would also be evergreen, but non-blooming and quite invasive.

Alternately, there are some native honeysuckles that are semi-evergreen depending on the microclimate. Ie., they will try to hang onto their leaves through winter and if they lose a set, they will quickly try to regrow them - even in winter.

Don't know if these are evergreen up north but they are here in central Texas. Two I really like are "Blue Crown" Passion Flower and Star Jasmine. The Passion vine is a vigorous grower. Star Jasmine, not as fast but beautiful & worth the wait.

Thanks so much for your help. I will reseach both Jenny's and Passiflora's suggestions! Would fall be a good time to plant in Zone 7?

I would like to suggest Confederate Jasmine. It's evergreen with a white flower that has a heavenly fragrance. It's not invasive and used a whole lot here in the south. I think it would do well for you there too. It grows fairly fast and is lovely.