It’s been a long, gray winter and a strange spring so far… Your front yard landscaping is probably looking a bit sad right now. Maybe it’s time to give it a facelift, or even a complete overhaul.
When we begin a front yard landscaping project, here are some things we consider:
1. Creating Focal Points
Focal points in a front yard grab attention and show passersby where to look first. A focal point could stand out because of its color: Maybe it’s a cherry tree with pink blossoms surrounded by greenery. Or, you could choose a brightly colored bench or garden art piece. It could even be your front door.
Height also makes a focal point stand out. Imagine a garden bed surrounding a tall pedestal or oversized garden urn. Once you notice the taller object, your eye will then go to the plants that surround it.
As we design a front yard, we include one major focal point, then one or two minor points for additional interest.
2. Replacing Overgrown Shrubs
When it comes to front yard landscaping, age can stand in the way of beauty. You can expect landscape plantings to last for about 12 to 15 years, so if you haven’t made changes since the early 2000s, your front yard is past due. Two tell-tale signs of a “past its prime” landscape are giant overgrown bushes and borders that have lost their boundaries.
When our clients have us remove old shrubbery and overgrown plants, they’re amazed at how good their homes look. A fresh, neat appearance goes a long way in terms of curb appeal.
3. Adding Walkways
Straight lines can sometimes be too predictable. Take a look at your front yard. Is there a straight path to your front door? There’s really no need to have a straight shot to your front door, especially if only visitors use it. Something with a gentle curve could add some excitement.
We love the look of curved walkways made with pavers or flagstone. Setting the pathway a few feet away from the house leaves space for garden beds on either side.
4. Enclose It
Adding some kind of structure to your front yard is a great idea. A fence, a low stone wall or a mounded berm can all give your front yard definition. You don’t need to completely enclose your yard to get the benefits here, just hint at the boundaries, and the rest of your yard will start to take shape.
5. Build a Portal
A doorway to another area of your yard can be enticing. Maybe it’s an arbor along the path to your backyard. It could be a gate on either side of a walkway. Plants installed to grow like arches can lead the eye, too. These kinds of elements typically add height as well, so they can also serve as focal points.
Photo courtesy of Plow & Hearth
Your Front Yard Landscaping
A thoughtful landscape design can put every inch of your yard to good use. With high-quality hardscaping elements and the right trees and plants, your front yard could spark joy every time you come back home.
