I think Loxleys idea is good. Personally I would go for a fairly wide cross with inside the Cross being grass and outside the Cross being bedding areas for plants. Where the stone parts of the wall are I would make them features, with espalier apple trees up against them. In the far corner where there is a seat currently, I would make that into a veg patch with a small weaved fence around it, not high just enough to outline the space. Then in the other corners you could have bedding plants, a small greenhouse etc, depending on what you enjoy doing in the garden. Very basic layouut below!
Edit: Some kind of water feature in the centre of the grass also!
I have an idea of the sort of effect you're thinking of. As others have said, it depends a lot on the orientation of your garden and the time you have for maintenance. With your garden, I would aim for a 'less is more' approach, thinking very carefully before you add another plant. In part, this is because the architectural effect you already have is created by the tree backdrop, which is gorgeous. I'd go for a few really beautiful all-season items rather than lots of colour or texture. Things like Miscanthus sinensis or Anemanthele lessoniana, ferns, heucheras, epimediums might do you well near the deck, and then just two or three shrubs at most towards the end/corners of the garden: such as Acer palmatum, Viburnum nudum 'Pink Beauty', Viburnum plicatum 'Kilimanjaro', for example, which will give structure and interest. I would be minimal over climbers.
If you buy the plants in pots, one practical solution is to position them where you feel they might work, then walk around and view from different angles, then try them in a different position and so on (though their cultivatory needs are paramount). Take your time and it will fall into place.
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Edit: Some kind of water feature in the centre of the grass also!
If you buy the plants in pots, one practical solution is to position them where you feel they might work, then walk around and view from different angles, then try them in a different position and so on (though their cultivatory needs are paramount). Take your time and it will fall into place.