Question
I live in Long Island, NY and have a side patch of lawn that I want to make into a cozy retreat. What are some interesting trees/shrubs that will look as interesting in the winter as well as summer? There is good sun there and a patch of woods running along side it so this isn't really for screening as much as for eye interest and to create a kind of enclosed circle. Thanks.

Answer
planning is the key.
make an overhead view drawing of the area you are working with. freehand draw the shape of your house, driveways, existing trees & shrubs, patios, etc. determine where you want planting beds(trees & shrubs), berms(hills), turf(lawn), and hardscape items(patios, ponds, statues, etc.). place an arrow pointing towards north on your drawing. so you will know what type sun the plants will get. take measurements (length, widths, sidewalks, beds, etc.) and show them on your drawing. make a few copies of this to work w/later. look at other landscape sites that you like. this will give you some ideas for your project. get to the library/garden center and read some books on landscape design(homeowner type). watch HGTV landscaping shows on sat and sun before 12 noon.
visit a few local garden centers/nurseries to find someone knowledgeable on landscape designing and installation. take a copy of the drawing w/you. buy your products from them & they should be glad to help you design and educate you on how to install and maintain the plants.
work one area at a time(allows you to budget $$$ as you go along) adjusting your taste as you do new areas. ask them to name the appropriate size & type plants for the areas you want to plant up. they will recommend soil amendments and other products(mulch, fertilizer, etc.) to help you be successful and get a good looking landscape. good luck
rick
please rate my answer on allexperts.com site.