Is there a garden center in your area that specializes in native plants? Among them will be some that prefer dryer conditions to moister conditions. Some prairie plants and shrubs might serve you as xeriscape plants, yet survive your winters.

In a normal year we get a decent amount of rain (this year, not so much) which can make xeric landscapes rot in the winter so you do need to have a good plan from the start. Success depends on if you want a low or no maintenance yard or a desert garden full of cactus and succulents. If you're leaning towards natives then I would talk to the folks at Niche Gardens in Chapel Hill. They would know all the landscape designers suited for that approach. If you're interested in cactus/desert garden you should visit the JC Raulston Arboretum in Raleigh and check out their scree garden and roof top garden for ideas. They should know any local designers.

Good Luck!

Thanks good point about rotting int he winter.