Designing a landscape for your Front yard will greatly differ from the backyard, because they serve two completely different functions. The Front yard is where people come in and leave; it should thus be the most striking and most accessible area.
What makes a Front yard extremely interesting is walkways and pathways with features and designs around it. It seems intriguing and inviting. The Front yard should not be elaborate, but simple and uncluttered. Invite people in by letting the main walkway lead straight to the Front door. It could be soft and curvy, but not too elaborate as to confuse guests. Frame the Front of the house and door by placing smaller plants next to the entrance. You can also try and "soften" the Front view by using vertical shrubs and plants and by pruning plants regularly to keep it neat. Grass can add immediate texture to a garden and there are many varieties and colours of grass that are bound to compliment your overall design.
You can also create a "container garden" at the Front door with different coloured flowers flanking out in different directions to compliment the colour of the Front door and house. Use evergreens that are low maintenance and that will create a year-round welcoming atmosphere. If you have a long driveway or cul-de-sac, create a successful transition between driveway and Front door. Pocket gardens with flowers, as well as boulders will break the monotony and create this transition.
Garden furniture is not restricted to the back yard; you can easily incorporate small aluminum or wrought-iron tables and chairs near the Front door with umbrella. This will look welcoming and even festive. Adding coloured gravel or mulch underneath will add character. The best option regarding plants and flowers is to use one type of shrub throughout and to stick with one colour, but in different shades when choosing flowers. You can also use arbours, trellises and even a garden sculpture to break the single height of plants and create a second focal point.
Connect the Front and back yards with flowing shrubs and flowers on the side of the house. This will lead guests in a specific direction. You can easily create an interesting "island" in the middle of a large Front yard by placing mounds of dirt, ground and gravel on large pieces of newspaper (which keeps weeds down). Add shrubs and perennials and create a perimeter with old bricks and stones. You should definitely incorporate trees in all sizes, but take care to not go overboard. Large, dense trees can easily hide or overwhelm a house when it should actually be framing the house.
Light up the house and yard with solar-powered garden lights. These will provide security and are perfect for creating a welcoming, secure atmosphere if you decide to entertain guests at night. These are easy to install and require little maintenance.
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