Go Vertical Use vertical elements like trellises, arbors, pergolas, and tall plants to draw the eye up and make your space appear larger. Vining plants like clematis, jasmine, and honeysuckle grown on structures add color and softness too.
Embrace Hardscaping Incorporate hardscaping like pavers, gravel, stone, brick, and concrete to add visual interest. Geometric patterns, contrasting materials, and textures all add design flair. Built-in seating also encourages use of the space.
Plant in Layers Layer plants of varying heights – tall in back, short in front – to create depth and dimension. This technique makes small spaces feel more expansive.
Use Potted Plants Movable planters allow you to be creative and flexible with limited space. Cluster pots together for big impact or line them up neatly against the house.
Add a Focal Point Draw the eye to an interesting focal point like a specimen tree, an architectural plant, a brilliant flowering bush, or a decorative accent like a bench, arbor, or urn.
Play with Colors Make a bold statement with bright, cheery flowers. White and silver foliage also helps reflect light and makes spaces feel open and airy.
Include Edging Borders and edging contain plants neatly and provide separation between lawn, garden beds, and hardscaping. Materials like bricks, stones, metal, and wood keep things tidy.
Go for Drama Exotic looking plants with dramatic shapes, spikes, spires, and mounds give small front yards a sense of grandeur.
Include Seating Make your landscape inviting and functional by incorporating a small bench, grouping of chairs, or bistro table and chairs.
Let There Be Light Landscape lighting illuminates pathways and accentuates plants and architectural features at night for added beauty and security.
With some creativity and these design tips, your petite front yard can feel welcoming, polished, and serene. The key is working with the unique dimensions of the space while enhancing its best features. Don’t be afraid to experiment with fun concepts to create a small front yard with maximum visual appeal.