Where’s the Front Door?
Your home’s entry should be clear and inviting. A confusing or poorly marked entry can leave guests feeling uncertain. Privacy from the street is still possible—it just takes smart design and thoughtful wayfinding.
• Reshape walkways to clarify main paths versus utility entrances.
• Use strategic lighting to guide visitors and highlight architectural details.
• Create a focal point, like a striking planter or sculpture, to draw the eye.
• Differentiate the entry with thoughtful garden design.
Driveway Designed for Cars, Not People
Driveways need to function well for both vehicles and pedestrians. Narrow layouts or awkward walkways make getting in and out of cars a hassle. Consider:
• Expanding the driveway footprint. Even 2 feet can make a difference.
• Relocating walkways away from the garage to allow more space for car doors.
• Integrating discreet pathways for trash cans and bicycles within the landscape.
A Patio That Looks Great—Until You Try to Use It
Patios should feel like a natural extension of your living space. Stepping stones or turf-filled gaps might look appealing but often create an impractical, uneven surface.
• Plan with function in mind—how will the space be used?
• Opt for continuous paved surfaces for a smooth and comfortable experience.
• Choose durable materials that blend seamlessly with the landscape.
Walkways Should Work for Everyone
Poured concrete stepper paths and uneven surfaces can be a hazard, especially for kids and older guests. Keep primary paths accessible by:
• Ensuring they are smooth, level, and easy to navigate.
• Reserving stepping stones (paths with gaps) for secondary paths with lower foot traffic.
• Adding proper lighting for safety and visibility.
Where Do the Trash Bins Go?
Trash and recycling bins are necessary but don’t have to be an eyesore. Smart solutions include:
- Ensuring easy access for homeowners by verifying the path traveled from the house.
- Screening with enclosures, fencing, or strategic planting.
- A plan for moving bins to the street and back.
The Outdoor Kitchen No One Uses
Placing an outdoor kitchen too far from the house—like out by the pool—means it probably won’t get used. Instead, design with convenience in mind:
• Involve the primary cook in the planning process.
• Position it near the indoor kitchen for easy access.
• Tailor the size and features to match your cooking and entertaining style.
• Consider high-quality prefabricated options—we have excellent resources.
Shading the Wrong Spaces
Shade is essential for comfort, but it should enhance spaces where people actually gather. Good shading strategies include:
• Installing pergolas, louvered roofs, or side panels.
• Using trees and shrubs for natural shade.
• Planning shade placement based on the sun’s movement throughout the day.
Hot Tub Placement: Think About the Cold Walk Back
Soaking in a hot tub is great—until you have to dash back to the house in the cold. Avoid regret by:
• Positioning it close to the house, ideally near the primary bedroom.
• Creating privacy with screens or plantings.
• Designing it as an integrated feature rather than an afterthought.
