Just one photo of one corner of the yard? Is this the only space you want to work on? Even if so, it is helpful to have a full view of the area. Can you back up or picture the area from the side so the entirety from back door to storage building is shown?

The fence is the eyesore, and new paint would improve the view. However, the tree that grows on the property line caused an adjustment to the fence and, over time, stopgap repairs. You probably cannot remove the tree unless the neighbor agrees to let you, and then you would have to pay for its removal. Property boundary laws vary by state. Replacing the fence could be expensive with average costs between $13 and $25 per linear foot. Consider creating a boxed out area in front of the tree that is covered with trellis panels and continue the panels down the length of the fence. Here is how that might look.

Grow vines on the trellis paneled fence line, and place a large planter in front of the boxed out area.

Thanks Mindshift. Yes, we are actually putting up a new fence, although we hadn't decided on what. I love your idea. I uploaded several pictures, were you able to see the entire driveway?

Sorry, MIchelle, I haven't gotten used to the changes Houzz has made in the way comments appear. I missed clicking on the Read More after your first photo.

As to the rest of the driveway, it should be relatively easy to create a garden room along the side of the house. Near the front of the house set up a planter or two to create an entry point. Metal stock tanks are relatively inexpensive for their size and can be found at farm and ranch supply stores. Similarly shaped and just as durable plastic stock tanks can be even cheaper. Wooden planters should always be set on bricks or blocks to slow rot or infestation by termites.

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It appears the best way to set up any furniture in this area is a U shape that leaves one side or the other open for people to move through. You could use the bench with a table in front of it and a couple of chairs to either side. If you can set up trellises against the fence that will make the area feel more green and private, but you will need some containers too.

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