I was thinking of making two beds, one on each side of the house, with the far ends rounding out a little deeper than the rest. I'm considering some adding some roses, and I'd like a nice tall shrub like an esperanza on one end. I'd also like some bottlebrushes in the back. I'd also like to incorporate some natives like salvias and a rosemary bush would be nice (love the smell!). The tree on the left will hopefully get removed this weekend, and instead I am planning to add a couple small trees to the yard, possible a vitex on the right and a hardy orange on the left.
I am considering using retaining wall blocks to build the border and also raise the beds some, but am having trouble deciding on the blocks to use. I have about 90 red ones that the owner left, but red doesn't really look good with the brick. I'm thinking perhaps a rusty/brown limestone. Eventually the house will get painted tan with dark brown trim, and cedar shutters. But all in good time with my budget. :)
Kim