Little Giant and Woodward are both cultivars of Arborvitae that grow slowly, 4-6 feet at best, and make nice foundation plants. Althoug they can reach the 6' mark, they grow so slowly and take so well to an early summer pruning that I would recommend them over a smaller shrub that might look too small against the house for too long. With the wind and sun, they are a better choice than a Yew, which can winterburn in that exposure. I have not run across a Juniper that I like very well, but that is my own prejudice, someone else may come up with a good Juniper variety that might work for you. Good luck, Helen.

I love the avborvitae, but around here they are deer candy. If you have a lot of deer in the area you probably will have to cover them in the winter.

We live in a rapidly growing suburb area, so deer aren't a problem. I think arborvitae probably is the way to go. Is there an arborvitae that has more of an arching shape, or a more casual shape than a tight, rounded globe, yet stays within the 4-6' range?

I can't really think of an arb with an arching, more informal shape. Perhaps more selective pruning versus shearing would help keep it looser looking.

You could also look at some of the dwarf spruces such as bird's nest spruce. Can be a bit pricey for a decent sized specimen though.

You could try the PJM rhodies. They do retain their leaves in the winter.