Landscaping ideas for front yard?

Hey everybody

Was wondering if I could get some suggestions for landscaping and fixing up this front yard? The block is north facing and receives plenty of sun. As you can see, the grass is in bad shape and there's gravel around. The driveway leading up to the house is also gravel, beyond that its a paved driveway and in good shape. I'm looking for something low maintenance here. Thanks in advance for your replies

 

Do you want lawn? Maybe some paving and ornamental shrubs?

 

Lawn sounds good, low maintenance.
On the other hand, the house has no garage to speak of, and previous occupants have been parking their car in the front yard. I'd consider some option that caters for that too.