Specimen shrub/ tree to block a gap

[Chippychop]

I'm trying to think of something that will block out the gap between the house and the garage if someone looks down into our garden. Essentially it will have be planted on the edge of a stand alone raised bed and will end up a feature in the garden so needs to be attractive... I'm thinking purpley leaves eg smoke bush.. But can you suggest anything else?

A nice climbing rose? Or Japanese maples have gorgeous red leaves and don't get too big.

I like the idea of a Japanese maple.. I think I'll go and look at some thx

If you like dark leaves have a look at 'Black Lace' elder. I replaced an ailing japanese maple with one and it has thrived. It has the dissected leaves but is nowhere near as fussy/slow to grow, and has gorgeous pale pink blooms in summer. Deciduous, so it won't block the view in winter but nor will cotinus or japanese maple.