A landscape must draw attention to the entry of the home.  This is accomplished in a number of ways.  The most common is color next to the entry, and a unique focal plant next to the entry door that draws attention to the entry year round.  Plants on the corners and perimeters of the site must be taller than the focal plant or plantings next to the entry door.

Landscape beds must be three dimensional. In other words, do not simply install a row of plants along the foundation.

Landscapes must be tiered or stepped to create depth.  i.e. shorter growing plants at perimeter, then depending on scale, taller plants behind, and even taller plants next to the foundation or what is otherwise known as the stair-step effect.

Always determine a plants mature height and width when designing.  Many designs incorporate a tree in the center of the front yard.  In this case always select a tree that ultimately has a canopy that begins above the line of sight to the front door.  In some cases clients desire a somewhat hidden entry, taking their visitor on an almost secret path to the front door.  Decide which effect you desire before you begin the design process.

There should always be a back drop behind the house utilizing evergreen plants that, at mature height, are thirty percent higher than the tallest point of the home’s roof line.  The most common mistake in landscape design in front of your home is installing  too many different types of plants in an area creating what we call the “carnival effect.”  Do not be over creative! In many cases a simple design is a timeless design. You definitely want a timeless landscape.

It takes many do it yourselfers years and sometimes lifetimes to understand what makes a design timeless. The most important factor in design is planting the right plant in the proper exposure.  For example, you don’t want a shade loving tree planted in full sun and vice versa.  This is a major mistake that even experienced designers make.

Always select a competent, experienced company to design an architecturally sound landscape.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions and give your input and thoughts to your chosen designer.

In some cases designers install what we call “cookie cutter designs” because they are trying to utilize plant material they have overstocked. Again, a trusted landscape source with years of experience is a good choice. Landscape design is an art form, look for a Landscape Architect who is also an artist or employs one to create your beautiful, new landscape.