If you really dislike it, get rid of it. If you just dislike its position, perhaps move it to a different spot.

I’d remove it in a heartbeat. For the reasons you mentioned, plus it’s ugly.

One of my favorite gardener friends says it’s perfectly ok to move or REmove plants that don’t make you happy.

What about adding some shrubs and landscaping around it. I think the problem is it's the only thing there to look at.

Consider removing. The bad pruning job is so sad.

It's very hard to comment when the tree is bare. One poster said it was ugly. It might be really pretty when it's leafed out. I'd keep it, because it seems to be the star of that garden bed. But, of course, the garden might be full of other pretty stuff when Spring actually comes.

"It might be really pretty when it's leafed out."

Not after the whack job it's received over the years!! There is nothing 'pretty' about that tree, out of leaf or in leaf.

And the OP has already explained it is too large for that location, encroaching on the walkway.

“I really dislike this Japanese maple in front of our house. “

There’s your answer right in front of you. Listen to it, and get rid of the tree.

Is there another place for the kids to store their bikes? It would be nice to do something aesthetic with that spot.

According to what we can see of the sun angle, it doesn't look like it's on the sunny side of the house. Or at least in a location where the sun is too limited.

That could be why it never developed properly and whoever did the pruning, kept raising the crown trying to make it look descent, to no avail.

I agree that the location would be good for some low shrubs and perennials, even evergreens possibly.

If you want a JM, pick a spot where it gets more of a partial shade setting by afternoon but more sun during the morning and daytime. :-)

eta: but start with a new tree.

Even if it weren't horribly mis-pruned, it would be the wrong place to put it. Just get rid of it!

And if you feel the need for 'foundation' plantings, make them much smaller ones.

Yes, put it out of it’s misery. RIP!

Remove :)

I'd keep it but figure out how to prune it so it's in a better shape. Figure out a way to build a garden around it so it's not the only focal point. Japanese maples are expensive and beautiful if taken care of properly.

Oh, remove the tree?

YES!! ;-)

The tree was rehomed. It is now a blank slate. Any ideas?

For useful plant suggestions please give us your location (nearest big city & state). Would you be amenable to pruning or replacing shrubs on the other side of the front door to create a cohesive landscape design?