Great point. Well maybe a much smaller version of one... bushes in back, hostas, hydrangas, some annuals. But what should I start with?

Here is a basic layout that widens the walk, enlarges the bed below the tree and connects to a bed along side of the house, where plantings would be visible from the front. One of its goals is to make the entrance more inviting. You could subdivide the groundcover area further in order to introduce more low plants into the scene (not that I think this improves it!) in an attempt to cottage it up.

Thanks for the layout. What shrubs are those you're suggesting?

Thank you Vstavay. Can you also do one keeping the current landscape layout?

If you have small kids, it will be difficult for them to avoid stepping in the flowerbeds near of the walkway . Personally I think it would be better to have a wider walkway. Planting some bushes from the right is going to prevent soil from the erosion .

These look so lovely! You have such good vision vstavay. I can never see it until it's done but now I have a good idea so thank you!