They're not out-dated over here in UK - recommended by top garden designers frequently. Anyway, plants should not be rated as to whether or not they are "in fashion" or not but whether they are suitable for the situation and are liked by the garden owner. However, I agree with you that they are not suitable for small front gardens or even council verges - I have a 40ft plus one just 2.5 metres from my bedroom window!
I'm afraid clumps of 3 birch trees is very out-dated. They seem to be a standard feature of small front gardens of houses dating back to the 1970s around where I live. What makes things worse is when, in the course of years, such birches have grown too tall for the space allocated to them and they are horribly mutilated. Hope the OP can consider alternative species. Of course "each to their own".
I finally found the original "butchered" birch tree in my village whose sight made me so angry. Just photographed this morning for your appreciation.
First thing I'd do is stain that fence. I used Cuprinol Urban Slate (dark grey) it's a fabulous backdrop to show off colourful planting and will add depth to the perspective.
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Apologies,
First thing I'd do is stain that fence. I used Cuprinol Urban Slate (dark grey) it's a fabulous backdrop to show off colourful planting and will add depth to the perspective.