Okay, I'm asking forgiveness in advance for opinionated comments: In everyday living, exterior stairs get wet, slippery, cold, icy. And, unless exquisitely designed (to be a statement of elegance), they look tacky. Statements of elegance are quite often inconvenient to live with, although one can bask in the initial admiration of visitors. I know that in some areas, exterior stairs are a... neighborhood tradition; a statement of necessity. And all too often, they look it. I think the architect's foyer is rather big, but oh my, the opportunity to make a decorating statement!! OTOH, I suspect 12x14 may be in proportion to the house. The architect needs to bend his brain so that the top of the staircase does not interfere with your views. I do hope someone has realized that an elevator would be of even greater use, especially if anyone breaks a leg, brings in the groceries or hauls out the trash. And if DW wants a traditional entry, an elevator could certainly take one up to the usual doorway.

Honestly? I think the gable adds nothing to the look of the house. In fact it doesn't go with the style of house. I would do as you have in the second plan but have the overhang just go straight across the front. Here's an idea of what I mean.

You can do search here for some ideas and create an ideabooks.

Personally, I would remove the brick planter, if possible. I like walkways that incorporate brick to tie in with any brick features visible on the home. You have that chimney and I would think a walkway incorporating brick would look very good. Personal preference: I very much dislike stamped concrete, but I know folks who love it, so go with what you think will be prettiest. I'm surprised the stamped concrete was cheaper than the brick edging, that was not the case for us. Cost is so variable depending on the location.