We are planning to rebuild our front step this year, as it was poorly designed and installed before we bought the house 16 years ago. We are thinking of using paver blocks and bluestone, much like we used for our back step (see pics). We may also re-lay the front walk. The area to the left of the front door leaves me stumped - the Rhodies we have there have never done well - neither have the azaleas. It gets hot summer sun from about noon to sunset. Similar plants to the right of the front door have done very well (more sun). I am thinking taking over the whole patch of grass there and doing something entirely different, but don't know what. I have perennial gardens out by the street. Any ideas would be welcome!