What you plant depends on where you live, but consider better defining it with a stone wall or making it more natural with a water feature.

Mediterranean Exterior · More Info

Erin Residence · More Info

What a beautiful setting! I would call a professional landscaper to plot out the change and suggest new landscaping. It's easy to make a costly mistake.

Agree with Pam on all accounts. You would not want a huge tree there yet I see a white Birch tree with uplighting as you can see through even though over time they get larger they have lovely multiple, "trunks" at the base so they are a nice focal point and one can see, "through" them. They are lovely year round if you have bad winters.

Seeing forested surroundings, not sure need for a tree there. In 'center suburbia' maybe.... what about patterns of interest to be seen while close by? in bricks or pavers? and red- or yellow- twigged dogwoods interspersed? hardy if bumped maybe?

What's the region? Dogwoods work in my region, but not where I grew up... I guess it depends on the zone. I love the tree there as it's not a GIANT trunk such as to the side of the home. It's interesting and lovely when lighted in the evening and by day no matter the season still lovely...........completely respect your opinion everdebz... It's a lovely areas to be sure.

I'd shrink it and simplify it. Find a beautiful focal point (tree, fountain, statuary, streetlight, etc.) and plant a single, low-growing plant specimen around it. Be sure to edge the circle with some complementary hardscape.

some ideas

River's Edge · More Info

Colorado Mountain Territorial Style · More Info

I like these ones with rocks, planters combo

Lobo Clubhouse residence · More Info

Garden Design - Woodinville, WA - Photo Gallery - Landscaping Network · More Info

By keeping all the plantings low to the ground this oval will continue to lack drama no matter what. But bringing in height as well as volume thru either plantings &/or structure (arbour, trellis etc) you will begin to create something with visual impact. And yes, a larger, sculptural tree IS a good call here especially with the generous size of the yard and driveway surrounding it. I'd look at a Japanese Maple or perhaps a compact weeping mulberry if combined with other plantings for volume - as long as you bring in some sculptural shapes and varied color and texture for added interest.

Lytle Road - Bainbridge Island · More Info

Lori Scott Landscape Design · More Info

do you really need to go in a circle? or would a wider drive just to the right, with place to back into and turn this side of the island, and have your island become connected with your lawn to the left/rear, give you the paved space you need?

i gotta say, i didnt really like any of the photo suggestions. they look too commercial parking lot somehow, and the center island too small.

A curb would be nice, but I think the slope could be an issue.

This post is old now, but curious what you ended up doing and what the dimensions of your circle were. We live on a rural property, so ours will be gravel rather than paved. But still discussing what the center can be. TIA for response if you read this!

@Carol Johnson_Maurer start your own Design Dillemma and attach photos of your driveway and parking area. Also what landscape styles you like.

Off hand I would say start with the turning radius that your tire tracks show.