Surely you've heard it before, but 'first impressions' really count. The way your property looks when people first arrive has a great impact on the way it feels and ultimately, on its value. for example, how is your front garden fenced? What are the fences like on either side of your house? Are you ready for a renovation and can't decide the look you want? Well, erecting a big fence is not the only answer!
As I walk the streets near my home or drive to my appointments, I'm constantly looking around for inspiration and ideas. A great place to visit for inspiration and trends, are Display Home villages. They provide you with ideas for both inside and outside the home, often showcasing the latest in landscaping trends and fencing ideas. Here are a few pictures I took during one of my many visits to Eden Brae Homes at Homeworld, NSW.
A short dwarf wall allows definition without closing in; adding the planting helps soften the hard look.
Horizontal open railing lets plants grow through and reach out, once again softening the severe look of walls and fencing allowing nature to let the home blend into its environment.
Timber slats offer privacy and allow for a tall but light fence. They also offer an effective back-drop as the planting in front becomes sculptural and helps diminish the daunting feel that may be given by a tall wall.
Structural plants add drama and work wonders in softening the visual impact of hard-lined walls.
A planted hedge acts like a visual fence, without any building involved. It also adds an interesting feature to an otherwise plain lawn.
A variety of plants and masonry provides a defined and welcoming entrance. Diffrent materials here are also well placed, creating an organic mix of hard and soft surfaces.
You don't have to be a slave to the hedge, as a soft and natural look can also be very pleasant. This 'natural' look is very effective especially in front of large hard surfaces to mellow the overall look.
A punch of colour with a well placed large glazed pot can add a stylish statement to your borders. Choose the colour of pots and flowering plants carefully, to contrast and highlight the colour of your property's external walls.
I hope I have given you some ideas for your home. If you're looking for further inspiration I always suggest first looking around your own area to explore if there is a trend you should consider, as you want your home to sit comfortably in its surroundings. Remember, defining your borders is not just about the front and side fences, it's also about how the front lawn blends into the home. This is just as important for the backyard, where instead of having a flat bare lawn which runs into a timber or aluminium fence, a softening row of plants will help blur the hard and soft finishes, providing an enjoyable and interesting space for you and your family.
James Treble is an ambassador for Planet Ark and firmly believes in sensible purchasing, recycling and creative re-purposing. James has three decades of accumulated experience in the Building Industry, Real Estate and Interior Design and regularly shares his knowledge and experience in adding value to properties through effective design & styling. Watch his free videos on YouTube, and follow him on Facebook and Instagram for more free information.