Please, please, please don’t ever paint the brick or stone, it’s a wonderful, original mid-century feature and has so much character. Don’t erase history for a bad fad.

Another vote to remove shutters.

Landscaping is what will make a difference. Check at your local nurseries (not big box stores) for the best advice for your area.

I’d make all of this area a bed, no grass:

Look on Retro Renovation, Atomic Ranch, and other MCM sites for ideas on embracing this wonderful house. :)