Not a lot of room, How about a sculptural euphorbia, because you are going to want something that's contained in shape (not bushy) and makes a statement like an art pc. Not too green tho.

As an entry, I would utilize that box lid, hinging it to lift and store things like slippers, shoes umbrellas etc, And I would line the back wall above in white painted lining boards about two thirds up the wall vertically. Top with a skirting board header, and install coat hooks t it. It will become a practical entry way, and the decorative timber detailing will always look great. Paint the wall above the lining boards in a deeper, or warmer tone like a coffee to accent against your white trims. Art is ok, a mirror sounds great, but is bad feng shui, and not many guests like to see themselves arriving. An adjacent wall can do that. After all, it will be a room to walk through, and not one in itself, so would make the most of this practical area, and create a space that the whole family will benefit from. Even without hanging coats here, the wall will look interesting and be a talking point, your own cloak room!

Thank you very much for your advice. I like your thinking and can develop my planting with your suggestions in mind. Confirming what type of pot colour has been a big plus in my search. I have planted some nasturtiums for a bit of summer colour, and hope the Shasta Daisies will also give a bit of show. It is in a hot dry place enduring Queensland 35-40C in summer, so the pretties, bulbs, azelias etc are all in winter/spring here, and summer is over to the more hardies. I take your point about the bare time between flowering, and as it is in the entrance to my yard, I am trying to make it inviting all year round. Much appreciate your advice Thanks I

Hi Hamish, these planters are very cool! Great potential here. - from what I can see; your home has brown and red tones, it depends on the look you are trying to achieve - however if you were aiming to integrate these planters into the existing colour pallet I would go for something with orange, brown, or red undertones - I know orange sounds frightening! Bare in mind that colours look very different when under direct sunlight, or dark shadows cast by trees etc.. Before painting it's always wise to do a test on a piece of thick paper or cardboard; see how it looks in morning light, afternoon sun, dim light at dusk, and so on... What is the light like at your place? If your home doesn't get much sun I would go for a lighter colour (lighter greys with brown undertones) to bounce off the sunlight that does reach it. A darker colour (browns, oranges) would add impact, a focal point, and would boast the greenery, as the natural colours from your plants would be intensified against a darker backdrop. I have outlined some colours that would look well balanced with the rest of your exterior - Good luck! - I look forward to seeing an update