I think you have a great canvas to work with, but definitely need a bit of an update. It sounds like you have plenty of great advice on the landscaping and transplanting a few plants. From what you said about not wanting to update the siding, I would think about updating the trim and your front door! The gray and beige just need a pop of something - a third color added in will help define the spaces of your windows and make your house stand out. To get some ideas, I searched some traditional exteriors to help spark your color inspiration! Even here where they outlined the windows in a fresh white and notice that they did the same but thicker around the front door. I love the strong color they gave the front door as well. I could see this coloring really working on your home. [traditional exterior design[(https://www.houzz.com/photos/traditional-exterior-home-ideas-phbr1-bp~t_736~s_2107) by sacramento interior designer Kerrie L. Kelly Here is a link that might be useful: [Traditional exterior photos[(https://www.houzz.com/photos/traditional-exterior-home-ideas-phbr1-bp~t_736~s_2107)

What color is your door going to be? Also are you doing stark white windows? BTW: In the elevation drawing I agree with you that horizontal looks better. The problem is it's hard to match a red brick color.

We have a bedford stone house with chocolate brown soffit, fascia and gutters. The windows are trimmed in white. I am trying to figure out what color to paint the concrete lapboard siding. I really like blues, but I'm not sure what shade would work. But, I am open to other colors as well. Please let me know your ideas!!

@Indecisiveness, sorry if unclear. First pic are color samples described in the message.