Embarking on the journey of landscaping is akin to setting the stage for your newly constructed home. It's not just about boosting home value and curb appeal, but also about decreasing heating and cooling costs.
While landscaping a new home can be challenging, it can be incredibly rewarding to see your home the way you envisioned it. Keep reading for tips on how to landscape a new house to maximize curb appeal and create your ideal outdoor haven.
How to Landscape a New House in 6 Steps
A well-thought-out plan is your best friend when tackling a landscaping project, especially when it comes to new construction landscaping where you are working with a blank canvas. But, what are the first steps you should tackle when creating a landscaping design? Let’s dive in.
1. Set a Landscaping Budget
Every stunning landscaping project begins with a budget. Whether you opt to take the DIY route or enlist the expertise of professional landscapers, having a budget will steer your decisions, keeping your project on solid financial ground. You’ll need to consider the initial build of the landscape as well as how much it will cost to maintain.
2. Test Soil Quality
Testing your soil to understand the pH level and nutrient quality helps in selecting suitable plants and amendments as well as planning proper drainage systems. For example, if you plan to have a garden but mostly have clay soil, you may need to amend it. Additionally, your soil type can significantly affect hard landscaping features, such as concrete paths, stone steps, or brick garden beds.
3. Plan for Sunlight
Nature's spotlight has a say in your garden design. Observe the sun and shade patterns throughout the day to understand which areas are best suited for sun-loving plants and which spots are perfect for shade-dwellers.
4. Measure Ground Slope
When landscaping, the lay of the land matters. Slopes might be one of the most overlooked or underutilized aspects of your yard design. In fact, the ground slope can be a stage for unique elements like a cascading waterfall or terraced flower beds.
5. Consider Hills and Retaining Walls
Speaking of slopes, hills and retaining walls can be both functional and decorative. They can help manage water runoff, create level areas, and add interesting visual dimensions to your property. Additionally, they can serve as raised flower beds to accent certain areas.
6. Prepare for Seasonal Maintenance and Upkeep
Like every beautiful thing, gardens need tender loving care. Plan for seasonal maintenance to ensure your outdoor haven remains a joy across the seasons. This means mowing and watering your grass regularly during the summer and raking up leaves during the fall if you live in a colder climate.
Ideas for Tailoring Landscaping to Your Preferences
Every garden tells a story. Yours is no different. Here are some ideas to sprinkle your personal touch across your outdoor space:
- Design inviting outdoor spaces—Envision cozy nooks for morning coffee, open areas for weekend gatherings, or maybe a playful corner for a vegetable garden.
- Sleek and simple designs—The design can be sleek with modern, clean lines, or a whimsical trail leading to a hidden rose garden.
- Water features—Water has its own magic. A small fountain or a reflective pond can add tranquil charm, creating spots for quiet reflection.
- Outdoor lighting—At night, outdoor lighting can transform your garden into a nocturnal wonderland. It also improves safety by lighting garden paths.
- Seasonal decorations—Your garden can celebrate the seasons with you! Plan spaces for a pumpkin display for a whimsical Halloween porch, twinkling holiday lights, or colorful spring blooms.
- Consider accessibility—Accessibility is another thoughtful touch. Easy-to-navigate paths and a comfy bench here and there ensure everyone enjoys the garden.
DIY vs. Professional Landscaping Pros and Cons
When it comes to beautifying your outdoor space, you’ll have to decide whether to roll up your sleeves and embrace the DIY spirit, or hand over the reins to a professional landscaper. Both routes carry unique advantages and challenges.
DIY
Depending on the type of project, doing it yourself can save you some money. It also provides a chance for hands-on creativity and makes for a great activity with loved ones. However, DIY landscaping projects can also run into unexpected challenges, such as drainage issues, uneven paths, or simply a lack of time.
Professional
There are a few different reasons why homeowners may decide to hire a professional. First, their expert guidance typically saves time and leads to a more polished look. Second, it is often just as customizable as DIY solutions. That being said, there are a couple of downsides, such as overall cost and less personal involvement.
Creative Landscaping: Consider All of Your Options Before Starting
Especially if this is your first landscaping project, it’s best to consider every available option before you begin. Compare the cost of doing the project on your own versus working with a professional, and keep in mind how much time you have to dedicate to the project. Generally, the more features you add, the more complex the project becomes and the longer it will take to complete.
Looking for a new home where you can let your landscape dreams run wild? Explore our available homes and communities today. We offer a wide range of properties with landscaping done for you or blank canvases for you to make your own.