I generally don't mind the set dressing but, like you said OP, there needs to be enough lots in a neighborhood to compensate.
I mean, in past games we were able to change the world environment so we could fill in the scenery however we wanted, but without that huge feature, all we have are interactive lots to make the best of a neighborhood. It's extremely restricting.
I feel like it's time for them to give us a set tool to change some of the backdrops and shells if this is the direction they're going with lots. Give us something to work with, for crying out loud. Even if it's a limited selection, like two or three backgrounds to choose from, or select structures to remove or change that remain unplayable. Something.
At this rate, there'll be nothing left in the EPs to charge us for.