I'm in 9A (Tampa area) and I do not see Jap. Maples here. There's likely a reason.

Usually, ongoing color comes from either foliage that is not normal green, or annuals which are changed out whenever they run out of color. It could be 2 to 4 times per year ... not a difficult thing to do in a prepared bed. Caladiums from tubers give great color for a long period. I've had them survive winter and come back for 3 years. Some tolerate sunny conditions. All tolerate shade. Perennials and Shrubs usually only provide color for 2 or 3 weeks and they're done for the year.

In general, bulbs tend to look great while they're blooming, but have an extended messy period. I wouldn't want them front-and-center unless I was going to treat them as annuals and throw them out as soon as they went downhill.

Instead of relying too heavily on color for thrills and excitement, I'd focus on overall form. Getting that right will look good all year.

Your stoop is small. Instead of planting in front of it, making it look like something is supposed to be hidden back there, I'd add on the paving so that it was open and welcoming for its entire width. There is enough room for a floral arrangement/planter on a stand -- for extra color.