IMO you need much bigger planters all along the left wall and how about just some nice lighting on the votive wall and no pots . So like this along the left wall all the same size and planted with seasonal plants for a really awesome entry . I am not sure about your style so maybe share that here with a pic of the house then it will be easier to show lights

How cold it gets wherever you are located will also affect which particular containers (and plants) will work.

that was an old pic
this is what the entire space looks like now (i just moved plants from along the longer wall to the shorter one in the corner per the advice here

note - i know it needs to be washed now that i’ve moved around the plants!

it’s probably better if i group all the plants into the corner

would you recommend leaving the second wall empty or doing something with it?

The same way the potted plant grouping looks more balanced/attractive, apply the same principal of a grounded feel. I’d remove the items (as well as the two awkward hanging baskets) and assuming you want plants, use the long wall for a more substantial arrangement with a fun door mat. You’ll have a less busy look that feels more coordinated.

It seems to me that the look that will please you and your husband will be found by some experimenting - bc words like "welcoming" and "busy" are pretty subjective, imo.

Also, I agree with Maureen about thinking about a narrow bench on the long left wall, even if you never use it - bc I think they look nice. (but, that's just me - maybe I'm wrong)

I think it looks pretty nice the way you have it now - though, I would add another tallish plant in that back right hand corner, to balance the one on the right, nearer the door. (I have a thing about hiding the door a little bit - I like that - again, it's subjective though.) Maybe the one on the right should be a bit taller. I'd probably move the smaller ones off the walls, too.

So, is water drainage from plants an issue at all? I just ask bc it so often is.

What about planting a living wall that doubles as a mural?

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thanks everyone!
i love the living wall idea and also a narrow bench could def be nice

in the meantime i got rid of some of the clutter