I think that creating a "tropical" lanscape should be approached with caution. I see evergreens in the background, and in my opinion they don't visually mix well with tropicals. Don't go all out tropical. keep it understated and classy. it would match your house MUCH better than a flambouant show of palms and hibiscus.

Never thought of it that way. You have a valid point though.

I think that Windmill palms (trachycarpus) go quite well with evergreens and conifers. For some reason, I find them rather at home when I see them among them. Here are some of my suggestions for plants to use in between: Fatsia Japonica goes well with evergreens. Large-leaved shrubs are also tropicalesque. You could try one of those evergreen, broadleaf Rhododendrons. Gold dust aucuba also lends a tropical appearance and can withstand harsh winter conditions. Or if you would like Hydrangea could also fit the bill, although they go decidious in the winter.

What about that Washingtonia palm in the background? Do you protect it? Just curious.

I just planted the Washingtonia. They are marginal at best here I would guess because I've never seen one in my county. I'm planning on protecting it this winter.