I have a patch outside my front window that's about twelve feet square. It's supposed to be grassy but is so shaded that in summer all it is is dust really. I was thinking of putting down gravel chips instead and making some kind of feature out of it. I would like suggestions on what to do with it please. Gravel's not exactly pleasing to the eye. Exclude pink flamingos, thanks :)

The area does get a little sunlight but only a little once all the trees are full.

Any ideas would be appreciated.

ETA I'm in Zone 7, AR. Apologies for leaving that out initially!