Put something evergreen at the corners. Also be careful your existing selections are not too large growing for where you visualize them being. For starters 'New Dawn' is programmed to grow at least 20 ft. - you will have to keep at it to make a planting of two of them stay within the space around your door.

A very nice traditional house. I think the porch idea could work. Check your zoning to see how far out toward the road you can build. You'd give up some natural light downstairs, is that acceptable? Also (of course) consider how often anyone would sit out there, because I'm sure it's not cheap. You could do just the center portico part, if you want a covered entry.

Have you considered a side porch, instead of a front porch? I've posted this guide several times but it's so helpful to see examples: architectural patterns Colonial Revival

Embothrium - Yes the New Dawn is a giant. I bought it about 3 years ago and have pruned it hard every year. Going to take it down to about 12” to move it.

Went on a recon mission to the garden center and am considering the following (not all of these but these are the ones I liked - now need to decide which ones and where they go!)

Any thoughts on these plants?

• Sandcherry
• Castle Squire holly (maybe for the tall evergreen behind the hydrangea and next to the rose.)
• Weeping Redbud - Lavender Twist or Hearts of Gold
• Miss Kim Lilac
• Dwarf Korean lilac
• hydrangea Pink diamond tree
• Zinfan Doll hydrangea
• Arborvitae forever goldy
• Dense yew

Also gold mop cypress. There was a yew I liked - I don’t think it was the sense yew but can’t remember the name.

I actually think I want blue hydrangeas upon further thinking. Your favorite blue hydrangea?