I think the house is really cute and don't see a need for more curb appeal. Even the hedges in front are interesting. The only comment that I have is to widen the sidewalk to the front door and continue the grey from the steps for the sidewalk.

For good advice on plants for the Chicago area, visit the Chicago Botanic Garden web site. They have all sorts of recommendations for plants PLUS a list of invasives. If you are close enough, they have many courses--some one evening, some multiple evenings or a weekend day.

For native plant selection I have had great success with plants from Prairie Nursery out of Wisconsin. You might want a garden of native plants for your side yard. It looks like full sun, so that means you would have a lot of choice.

I also recommend that you make an asparagus bed the first year that you are in the house, so in coming years you will have fresh-picked asparagus to enjoy. Another favorite of many is rhubarb--also perennial.

Since the house is asymetrical I would avoid focusing on a symetrical design for the landscape. The existing hedge (looks like yew) is heavy for the house. I would consider leaving the blue spruce as it does provide visual seperation from the adjacent property. A simple foundation planting and a new front walkway would make a huge difference. Architectually I would consider a different door or at least painting the existing one....as well as eliminating the shutters on only one window.

Very cute house. Born and raised in Chicago myself, it can be a challange to make your yard look appealing year around. A few minor suggestions would be to enhance the walkway and landing to the front door. I like the curve of the walkway, but consider making it wider and more defined with stone work set on a concrete base, making it level and easier to walk on and shovel in the snow. The front entry steps and landing could also be larger, using the same paving material as the front walkway. Lower the height of the front hedge and add some colorful pots or beds of annual color in the summer close to the front entry. Be sure to trim the Spruce tree regularly so it doesn't overpower your space. Good luck! Chicago is a great area!

cute house, congrats! stairs look old. something feesable would b outdoor carpet.those small dead bushes need to go. needs color so maybe add some flowers. also the sidewalk needs work.