What planting zone are you in? I would start by taking your shrubs down a bit so they come underneath your windows.

I'll beath Yardvaark to it... Widen the sidewalk by adding bricks to either side!

Just a general comment. The house is very formal and symmetrical, at first I thought it was a school, so I think what it needs is a little loosening up. Less squares, more curves and some softer angles. I would like to see a low fence and a gate with an arbour or pergola at the street side and some slightly blowsy plantings. Let me see if I can find an inspiration picture or 2!

Shade plantings (all low maintenance)

Kerr · More Info

Nice fence and mostly low maintenance plants (be careful with buddlia the purple shrub it can be invasive in some zones)

10th St Remodel · More Info

Also low maintenance mostly shrubs and grasses, you could also add bulbs

Less Lawn More Garden · More Info

Nice design, the plants are more sun lovers though.

Cottage Renovation · More Info

These are just for general ideas, your best source for plant advice is your local garden club, master gardeners or owner/operated nurseries in your area. Plant selection is very area specific. Good luck!

I love the formality of all of it but agree the shrubs should really be trimmed back. If you want small pops of color, maybe some daylillies in the front of the shrubs?

You have a small front yard. I'd get a beautiful flowering tree to put on one side, unless you want to play up the symmetry with two. And/or plants flanking the sidewalk. Hostas are tough.