Hi, what zone are you in? What direction does the bed in question face? What are the dimensions of the space?

You say you are a *cottage style* lover. . . I would consider a flowering shrub such as a hydrangea, floribunda rose like Ice Berg (white fragrant flowers), perhaps a climbing rose on the brick wall. Any of these would eventually fill the space, so you would only need to buy one thing. I'm not fond of busy (several things planted together) in an entry spot like you have, but that's just me. I think one nice sizeable plant makes more of a statement.

Have fun. . . I'm sure you will get a lot more advise from the crafty folks here.

~Debi

That probably isn't a good place for a pond but perhaps you could put in a fountain or birdbath to give some height to the area.

Hi Maid. I'm in 5b. This is a hot dry spot facing almost due south (slightly west).

A bird bath or fountain , great idea! There's a plug on my porch!