Thanks for sending a photo. Not sure if the area is in sun or shade but a compact boxwood would stay with the colonial style of the house and look great all winter. You can also use dwarf conifers such as the cryptomerias that have yellow, blue and green evergreen foliage. Some are very dwarf indeed. Another idea is to use Nandina or heavenly bamboo as it does not spread but has a light and lacy look. For winter color add hellebores, for spring color daffodils and in the summer add begonias. Large urns on either side of the door would be a nice way to grow summer bloomers. It will be lovely. Keep growing, Marianne Binetti