This client has a south-facing front entry, and the heat reflected off the house and surrounding concrete makes this garden hot. She hates the yucca and larger ornamental grasses (not to mention they are spaced too far apart even if you like the xeriscape look!). There are also 3 purple heucheras that do not look happy.
I think we need a few shrubs, including at least one evergreen, to provide some winter interest and balance the garden on the other side. Although she didn't ask my advice on this aspect, I would put the bench in front of the stucco wall, rather than the window (and move the vases to either side). The metal will stand out better against the solid colour, and the view from the inside will not be interrupted by the bench (the view will be nicer soon!). The client stipulated she likes warm colours such as yellows and reds, not pinks or purples. And finally, the plants should be hare and deer-proof, as much as possible.
[Update: Click here for stage 1 renovation.]
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