Designing a flowerbed (shrubs) for front garden (no dig)

[AntiqueBooks]

Hello

At the moment, my front garden is just a rectangle of grass, about 4m x 3m.

I'm thinking of putting in a flower bed next year. Possibly via the no dig method so just putting down cardboard and compost and planting directly into it.

As well as the lawn, I have a load of pots of lavender, roses etc at the front. So the flowerbed could be evergreen/flowering shrubs rather than flowers.

But what to choose?! I'd like something that will last forever and look good all year round. Should I stick to 1 plant or more than one? So far on my list I just have: HOLLY I don't want anything that will get too tall as it will block light to my window.

Hope this makes sense, thanks for any ideas or advice!

The gardener came back a week ago and put down soil improver. And he will return in another 2 weeks i think, he said it needs time to work.

If anyone was in any doubt that gardening teaches one the art of patience...

Black lace elder is also an option if you want reddish colours. It has dark purple/red leaves that are fairly similar to some acers with pinkish flowers rather than the white of normal elder. They can be pruned hard - even back close to the ground so it can be kept the size you want.

I live near the coast and Pieris Forest Flame might be a good option - it seems like nearly every garden around this area has one. I have two and love them. Seeing the bright red foliage everywhere when driving around has been beautiful the last few weeks. I love the little white flowers too. They're evergreen so give year-round interest, like acidic soil, and are hardy and low maintenance.