Curb Appeal: Personal Enjoyment and Value

Photo Credit: Charles Deluvio of Unsplash.com

“Form follows function – that has been misunderstood. Form and function should be one, joined in a spiritual union.”

—Frank Lloyd Wright, Architect

8 Curb Appeal Landscaping Idea to Maximize Your Home’s Value

By Kelly Roberson, Better Homes & Gardens Writer

I ran across an article by Kelly Roberson, Better Homes & Gardens Writer that speaks to one aspect of landscaping that truly resonates with me—curb appeal. When I come on to a property for the first time I don’t just look at trees, grass, shrubs, and plants. I walk the property, taking it all in—the color, structure, and overall design of the home; the garden and its intended use; and the overall flow as I walk.

In addition to increasing the value of a home, I believe personal enjoyment is a primary benefit of curb appeal. How you use the porch for reading in the morning light or relaxing in the cool of the garden in the evening with family and friends, is all related to curb appeal.

My Insights from the Article

• Consider the House: The design and architecture of your home can be a real asset when creating curb appeal through landscaping. 
• Use Hardscaping: Secondary hardscape elements contribute to curb appeal.
• Turn to the Color Wheel: The color of a house should be considered when choosing plants for landscaping.
• Think Through the Seasons: Consider structural elements such as trees and shrubs that look good in spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

Read the Full Article Here

1. Consider the House – the design and architecture.
2. Think About Proportions – plant groupings that reflect the shape and lines of the house.
3. Using Hardscape – secondary hardscape elements
4. Point Out the Pathway – the path towards the front door is welcoming
5. Turn to the Color Wheel – the color of the house coordinates with the colors of the plants.
6. Include Big Plantings Where Appropriate – large shapes and masses of plants are attractive from a distance.
7. Keep a Low Maintenance Garden – an elaborate garden could be a negative for a potential buyer.
8. Think Through the Seasons – a landscape that goes dormant will look uninviting.