I too would think rejuvenation rather than clean slate unless you are working with an expert and have budget for mature specimens. Start by identifying each of your shrubs and groundcovers. That helps you see what takes what kind of pruning and also what it would "cost" to replace mature shrubs. So you can get an idea of what would work well as backbones and where to integrate new shrubs--it's not that you can't rip some out, but need to be more knowledgable, if you can, on which give best bang as-is vs. what and where to replace or to build outward with another layer. For example, red or purple shrubs would fade away if just in front of the red brick, so if you rip all out, you still have to think what goes where; if you like gray or lime foliage, it stands out against dark green and can then mix other colors in front. some shrubs would fasat-growing and need to be pruned back each year and is a pain (for me) whereas others can be shaped and reduced and need less maintenance. Also, all "greens" are not equal--so look up close and see, do you LIKE the foliage on one type more than others--then don't rip that out only to replace with the same later. I'm assuming from what you said that these don't bloom, but again, I can't tell from photo whether there're any bonus features like blooms or berries. It would also be helpful for you to be informed about what types of "colorful" things do well in your zone--particularly hardy shrubs --because again, you'll want to do a little window shopping--other neighborhoods, nurseries-- and see what appeals to you & read about the growth and requirements..

Thanks all! Ok, so no shutters. Got it! 1 less project ;) And we are actually fog coating with that beige color stucco. No paint. I do love the mock up of the darker color! But I wanted a lighter color for hopefully keeping the house cooler. I would have loved off-white but afraid of looking dirty. I’m happy with the color. Need to get the other 3 sides fog coated now. And I think I like the darker brown trim along the roofline too. Our windows are brown/bronze so I think that’s a nice compliment. But I’m still unsure about the trim around the garage and front doors. I like the idea of a lighter color (grey/green or a greige) there. Something that will compliment the house & the landscaping which will have all shades of green. And also my teal/turquoise pots (that I don’t have yet). I’m trying to get it to have a Mediterranean feel even though I know it’s not a Mediterranean style. ;) But I’m having a hard time envisioning the grey/green or greige trim. Can anyone mock that up? Any other thoughts on the trim? Here’s a pic of our front entry. It’s a work in progress! But you can see the trim. And clearly I need to tile the floor but we might extend it a bit. I’m thinking travertine. It was a very 70s dark brown time with flowers (?!?). We’re getting there! Thanks all! Keep the ideas coming please :) Love them!

This brings back memories as I lived in the North Dallas area in the 60s. Your trees are wonderful. I would focus on making significant changes to the landscaping to update the exterior of your home. I do think getting a more MCM front door and painting it an accent color—teal or a bright green would be interesting and draw attention to it. Get rid of the wrought iron gate and put in one with cleaner lines. Get a new porch light in a rectangular shape. If you search this site for MCM exterior I’m sure you will find examples that appeal to your taste. Definitely get rid of the shutters! If the pole light in the yard isn’t functional and you don’t need it, I would remove it. Get rid of the ground cover under the large tree on the right side of the house. All of the landscaping is so mature it would be best to start over with a fresh design plan. You can work with one of the local nurseries to design and install new plantings. I think re-landscaping like some of the pictures Beth H shared would make a huge statement — just decide if you like the more structured looks or curving beds since either one would look fine with the house.

Pretty house! I’d go ahead and remove the shrubs so you can get a clear picture of the space. I think slighty curving the bed down a bit to meet the curve in the sidewalk would look nice, and more cohesive with the other bed. Once you’ve got it cleared, edging set up, etc, you’ll get a much better idea of what you’re working with. You could use dwarf shrubs, such as dwarf Yaupon Holly, smaller grasses, perennials. Maybe add a pretty bird bath to see out the window. :) You could also take a good picture of the bed to a reputable local nursery for ideas in your area, as well as check around the neighborhood.