Planting under front window in north facing front garden?

[soloula]

I'd like to plant up under our front window. It's grass atm but a bit messy as the ground is a bit soggy. Am I daft for considering planting it up? If not, what plants could I use? I wouldn't want something too big that would end up needing major pruning and restricting the view out our window. The area is about 1m deep and 3m wide. Also - what would I need to do to improve the soil/drainage? Any suggestions would be really appreciated.

I’d do some research and a plan for all year round texture and colour.
Plants that are low and don’t mind shade could be:
Spring; hellebores, snowdrops, fritillaries, Lilly of the valley.
Summer through to autumn; cranesbill geraniums, astilbe ( likes damp) Astrantia, ferns, small firs would tolerate a N facing aspect and are good for structure.
Grit and soil conditioner will improve the drainage.
But above all, make sure you don’t breech the house damp proof course.

Thanks JT that's really helpful, a good starting point for me. I'm off to google now and look up the plants you've suggested

I am a lazy, cheapskate gardener so, rather than improve drainage, I would plant anything that thrives in shady boggy areas. Lots of Ferns will love this. Also Weigelia, Hydrangea Euonymus, Berberis, pyracantha, Salix and Astilbes. I would leave gaps for daffodils, bluebells, grape hyacinth and some Cornus.

Lots of ornamental grasses also thrive in this sort of condition. Just google before you buy.

Ferns. Lonicera nitida grows anywhere, Euonymus is fairly happy in shade, although probably not the yellow variegated leafed ones as they revert to green if they don't get enough sun. Cotoneaster horizontalis might be a good bet too, spreads out but doesn't get too tall, and has nice berries in winter.

I'm a big fan of Caryopteris x clanondensis 'Worcester Gold' for a shady border. It has bright lemon-green leaves with beautiful blue flowers in the late summer to autumn. It will grow 2-3 feet high so is perfect for under a window.