Many homeowners have maximized their backyard spaces, integrating outdoor kitchens, lounging areas, firepits, and gardens. However, a key area often overlooked is the front yard. Both statistics and experts highlight the value of enhancing your front yard landscaping.
Enhancing your front yard not only boosts curb appeal but also adds significant value to your home. According to a 2023 survey by Thumbtack and Nextdoor, 57% of homeowners believe that attractive landscaping can increase a home’s resale value by at least $20,000, while 16% estimate an increase of more than $50,000.
The National Association of REALTORS®‘ 2023 “Remodeling Impact Report” indicates that an outdoor landscape upgrade—such as adding a natural flagstone walkway, stone planters, flowering shrubs, a deciduous tree, and mulch—can provide an estimated 100% return on investment when selling your home.
“The front yard creates the first impression of your home,” says Janet Loughrey, a contributor to “Garden Design” and a garden photographer. “There are many ways to repurpose a front yard into a beautiful and functional space for relaxing, entertaining, or recreation.”
1. Highlight the Front Porch
Potential home buyers rank the front porch as a top desired feature. Showcase it with seating options like Adirondack chairs, a bistro set, or a porch swing. Add flowery hanging baskets and potted flowers near the front door to create a welcoming look.
2. Emphasize Pathways with ‘Entangled Design’
Incorporate grass between pavers for a natural look that enhances drainage and softens pathways.
3. Relocate the Firepit to the Front
Firepits can be a front yard feature. Surround the area with low shrubs or a stone wall to create a cozy, inviting space.
4. Illuminate Walkways
Add lighting along walkways for safety and ambiance. Use boxed lanterns, spotlights on the house, and uplights on favorite plants or trees. Consider solar-powered options to reduce wiring costs.
5. Decorate Window Boxes
Enhance your home’s architecture with window boxes filled with seasonal flowers. Use a mix of greenery, a taller central plant, and colorful accents.
6. Opt for Waterwise Landscapes
Reduce water usage by integrating paving stones and artificial turf. Xeriscaping and wildscaping with native plants can also create beautiful, low-maintenance landscapes.
7. Create a Get-Together Space
No front porch? Pave a stone courtyard for patio furniture and entertaining. Add a small pergola to create an inviting entryway.
8. Balance Privacy and Curb Appeal
To block car traffic, place trees strategically. For foot traffic, consider continuous hedges or fences within local height regulations.
9. Get Creative with Front Yard Gardens
Use vertical planters, living walls, and metal trellises for a dynamic garden. Incorporate seating areas to add charm and dimension.
10. Incorporate Rocks (but Not Too Many)
Use river rocks or crushed gravel as low-maintenance alternatives to mulch, complemented by plants with soft foliage to avoid a harsh look.
11. Weave in Water Features
Add a water feature for curb appeal and noise reduction. Consider maintenance and electrical costs or opt for solar-powered fountains.
12. Choose Plants with Multiseason Appeal
Select plants with attributes like colored leaves, flowers, berries, and fall color for year-round interest. Use evergreens and plants that bloom at different times for continuous beauty.
Common Front Yard Landscaping Mistakes to Avoid
- Overpacked Design: Avoid overcrowding with too many features or sculptures.
- Too Close to Home: Keep tall shrubs or trees away from the house to prevent issues with walkways and gutters.
- Blocking Views: Avoid tall, continuous plantings that obscure the home’s appearance.
- Off-Scale Elements: Ensure plants, seating, and features are in proportion to the space.
- Single Plant Hedges: Mixed hedges are more resilient and flexible than solid hedges of a single plant type.
- Ignoring Rules: Check local regulations and homeowner’s association rules before making changes.
By giving your front yard the attention it deserves, you can enhance your home’s beauty and functionality while increasing its value. Whether you’re looking to create a welcoming entrance or a cozy outdoor space, these ideas will inspire you to make the most of your front yard.
