Lots of challenges here with all the different window sizes and styles. Right now that large window on the left is dwarfing the front door. When you change out the portico have it start right at the roof line.

Can part of the hardscape be cut away?

Maybe add a grid pattern to that expansive window:

What are you thinking budgetwise for the portico? You could have something interesting done:

Replace the patio,add a gable porch

There are great possibilities for your house.

We recently remodeled a 70's house with a corner front door by the garage similar to yours and our Clients love the transformation.

It would be easy to transform your house too......
You can change out the windows and modify the front facade for the look that you want......

I have posted two "AFTER PHOTOS" and two "BEFORES" to show you the possibilities.....

Wow! Love the changes to the house up top Lampert Dias. Extraordinary change :) Hard to believe it is the very same home.

We do have the driveway in front of the front door so too large of a portico won't work. I like the idea of coming out up by the roof line. Thanks for the before and after pictures Lambert Dias. Very nice!

Woops, Lampert Dias, sorry!

It is difficult to make design suggestions without detailed existing plans.......

However, if we were doing the remodel of your house, we would probably create a sense of a front porch across the entire front facade in the area where the planter is......We would push back all of the protruding walls, change the large dark window to a more traditional window with a clerestory window above the new porch roof........Also we would cantelever the porch roof out a bit further then the new posts because there is room to go out between the garage door and the house.

You could have your cottage easily with a good architect on board to help you.

^^^Agree 100% with Lampert Dias. It is worth the small difference in cost just avoiding errors that professionals see right away that others miss.

That is so encouraging, thanks. Recommend an architect in Salt Lake City?

I don't know any architects in Salt Lake City, but you might try looking under houzz "find a pro".........
Make sure that you like their work and you call their references and that you feel comfortable with them.

Thanks!

grid planters a/k/a permeable paving is an excellent idea for transforming hardscapes into softer looking areas. Helps with drainage too.

That's a good idea. My husband loves cement!

A simple solution for the front door would be to add an awning similar to the photo I attached. And a new door and trim of course :)

I would cut those big windows with a trellis two thirds of the way up and a big cement rectangle planter beneath the trellis,. a chunky pergola over the front door would add to the cottage effect too.