Actually the first one is a better view if that is your garage and driveway to the left.

Do you have a pic showing the entire front including the attached garage?

By zone, sm means plant hardiness zone. The southeast (of the US?) has many planting zones. Look up your plant hardiness zone so you can receive specific plant suggestions.

I’d get rid of all of it and start over. I’d do a much deeper, curving bed on the right and plant dwarf shrubs, perennials, ornamental grasses, etc. A more layered look with varying heights. If space allows, other decor such as a bird bath, boulder, etc. On the corner, if you did a deep enough curve, I think a Crape Myrtle would look nice (just not too close to the house). And maybe a good shade tree somewhere else in the front yard.

On the left, again, I’d mix low height plantings, but not a uniform look. Your local nurseries (not big box stores) should be a good resource, and can advise you on the best plants for your area. You could take a picture to show them.

Another change I’d make is bigger entry lights. It’s a tall house, the current lights are lost in so much space. I’d also remove the shutters on the window above the front door, or replace with ones that fit. I can’t tell the exact color of your siding on the garage, but painting the shutters a lighter color might tie in better with it (if you’d like a less formal, more casual, look).

I can’t tell exactly how wide the walkway is, but if budget allows, maybe widen it ... and dress it up. Stain it, or have a new one professionally done using a decorative surface.

Build a front entrance porch with wide steps., The porch should have a pitched roof to match the house.

Agree with MizT. I would look for a small - medium sized tree, one that will top out at about the level of the 2nd story window, and plant it forward of the turn in the sidewalk, about in a line with the large shrub by the front door. The purpose is to visually break up that tall blank space above the front door.

Dig Doug's, what software did you use to make that sample? It looks great!

I use Realtime Architect

I think Doug figured it all out for you that looks great!!