My house is needing some brick repair due to some freeze-thaw causing some bursting of the brick. I am considering different options when I have the work done.

The 2 bottom steps need to be removed and replaced due to them settling and draining backwards.

The easiest option I am considering is to replace the 2 bottom steps with all brick and painting them to match the rest.

I was thinking since I am getting the work done maybe consider some other design options.

Should I remove the large brick side walls they are settling also? I am not a fan of them but worry if removing them would make the entrance pillars look out of place? I thought removing them up to the pillars where the black pots sit in line with the step??

Replace the brick steps with a red brick to add some contrast to the exterior.

We are adding black lights to the garage front and moving the house number lower to the area beside the single garage.

I am open to suggestions. We have done extensive remodeling to the interior and some landscaping but I need to work on the exteriors curb appeal.