First Impressions and Focal Points

The front entry is the gateway to your home. The entry should welcome guests or be a comfortable place to pause before saying good night.

A front entry can be a porch, stoop or landing (the most common), or a patio. Occasionally, they are outdoor living spaces with a dining area surrounded by a garden or a quiet place to visit with neighbors. The front door should be the focal point. The path between the street (or driveway) and the door should be obvious. This can be achieved through architectural details, color, lighting, plants, or any combination thereof.

‘Curb appeal’ is the catchphrase for homeowners who are looking to update the look of their front entry. There are simple ways to enhance the front entry of your home.

Graceful putting green and driving range alongside a winding drive.

Modern front entry container garden design.

You can create interest by adding color and texture with plants. No matter what architectural style your home is, plants can liven up any entry.

Low stone retaining wall matches details of the home.

How about remodeling the entire front entry to highlight the uniqueness of your home?

front entrance with bluestone and gardens illuminated by low voltage lighting

Warm low-voltage lighting gives this home a grand and welcoming presence from the street.

Sometimes less is more. That's the case for this modern masterpiece.

Paver driveway and new staircase leads directly to the front door

A do-it-yourself job gone wrong set right. Now this front entry is safe, secure, and scenic.

suburban front entry design that uses boulder and natural elements

Boulder retaining walls, blooming flowers, evergreen shrubs, and elegant pavers create a welcoming front entry design with a nod to nature.

modern front entry design mixes rustic and modern elements

High-end front entry mixes rustic textures and formal modern design.

frony entry with bluestone walkway and cedar mulch beds

This cozy front entry features a bluestone walkway with seat boulders cut into the corners.

Landscaped front entry garden with curving edges and native grasses in Edina, MN

Native grasses, perennials, shrubs, and trees add curb appeal to this newly constructed home in Edina.

Designing your front entry

A Southview Design landscape architect or landscape designer can help you design a front entry that complements the style and colors of your home. Does your front entry enhance your home's curb appeal? Provide a place to leave packages? Give visitors shelter from the rain and wind?

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