This would be a perfect layout for several HUGE containers of plants, maybe even a small tree in a barrel. You would need to water them very often, though.

You know, we have a place right down the road that sells ceramic planters in every size and I wanted to get them in 3's tall medium and small. The smallest being around 18" and the tallest maybe 36 or more. Maybe royal blue or deep teal? My husband didn't like that idea but, you are making it more appealing!

I was thinking more along the line of low rectangular planters to pick up the lines of the house, maybe made of wood. I think individual ceramic pots would be too fussy. You can introduce color with the plants and flowers themselves.

There's a couple of things that would help
1. I don't like the single post near the door, so a narrow pergola from the post to the end of the inset part of the entryway, with additional posts would help.
2. paint the inset area and the entire garage front face white or blue or green. Even paint the brick. Can't see the door but paint it a contrasting color. For example, if the inset is white paint the door turquoise, orange or red or your favorite color. Alternatively, you could cover that entire area with a horizontal stained wood to give a little MCM feel.
3. Add a bench and attractive potted plants to the inset area. Maybe update the lighting, I can't see what you have.

Example of narrow pergola

Are those 3 planters out by the pool or are they furniture?

Wow, these are great ideas! Thank you Dan, I love it! Actually Diane, those are storage benches. Thanks so much, I think a combination of the plants, contrasting colors and the pergola is the way to go. Stay tuned for after pics!

I think that is perfect for the front. What a lovely view you have. The back slope to the pool would look nice with terracing and more plants.

Hi, we use a lot of Sedum Rupestre in our pots here - it deals really well with drought, acts as a mulch and goes bright yellow when you remember to water it. Plant it around your bigger plants and you get a pop of colour.

Asparagus fern does great in pots as well. It is very drought tolerant -- I only water mine every 7-10 days even in 100 degree summers. It turns tannish yellow in the winter but is very architectural looking. I am in zone 7 and it always comes back in the spring (just cut the dead back after the last freeze). I wouldn't plant it in the ground because it can be invasive. I've heard people have problems with the berries going to seed in their yard, but I haven't had that issue after 4 years. Just watch the stickers.

Great ideas! My husband can't wait to get started on the planting in the back and around the pool, the is so much area to work with. We are in semi arid so I know your suggestions will be perfect.

This is from the back deck. We just got this property in November and while there's work to be done, it's a great find considering we are close to the pacific. You have all been super! Thanks!