Could you add a current photo from the perspective of the first and last ones without the equipment and shrubs there so we can see the steps from head on? Also, I would love a photo of what is to each side of this photo, so standing in the same spot as the top photo, swing your body left and take a photo, and swing right and take a photo. Location of parking, the driveway, and trees which create shade are a few things that might influence the placement of plants and the walkway. If it is possible do this when the front of the house isn't in shadow or take the photo on a cloudy day or just use software to lighten the shadows in the photo, that will help.

Removing the flat line of shrubs was a good choice, but you will want some shrubs, including some evergreens rather than just flowers in your new beds so there is some winter interest.

Where are you (nearest large city) and what growing zone? What direction does the house face?

A MCM door would be the 1 st thing.. All the grids need to be removed fromthe windows. Then check out MCM landscaping there are 1000s of ideas A walkway from the street to the front door will be ahuge improvement.