Do you have a better picture? The current pic can’t be enlarged.

I would not box in the wrought iron column. It will make it way too large for the small porch. I’d either leave it or remove it and replace with a column that is the right size.

(I have a 1960’s column too, a coat of paint makes a huge difference)

Here

are some

I would remove the lanky hedges that read as a barrier. Plant the area close to the foundation with an interesting variety of bushes, flowering perennials and annuals for long season bloom. I would also remove the shutters. The windows are not right for them.

With the changes you plan, it should look very nice. Good luck.