When you are looking to add some curb appeal to your home, landscaping is a great idea, especially for single family homes. However, homeowners often get confused between backyard and front yard landscaping. Which one should you choose? While both of them contribute to the overall look of your property, they have their own distinct purposes. When working as contractors, we often see clients getting confused between the two. We believe that it is important to understand the key differences so that you can make the right decisions.
How Do Backyard and Front Yard Landscaping Differ?
Before the work starts, it is important to sit with your contractor and discuss a few crucial things. If you are confused whether you should go for backyard or front yard landscaping, then you should make sure that you go over the differences so that you understand what each of them is about.
Here are the key aspects where the two differ from each other.
1. The Purpose
The objective behind the two is perhaps one of the biggest differences between the two.
When should you go for front yard landscaping?
The front yard is the face of your home. It creates an impression for visitors, passersby and of course, prospective buyers! So if you want to give a boost to the value of your property, then front yard landscaping is the right option for your home.
When does backyard remodeling make more sense?
On the other hand, the backyard is more like your personal space, a private retreat. The primary objective for backyard remodeling is to build a space for relaxation and recreation.
While it still influences the overall value of your home, its impact is generally lesser when compared to a front yard renovation
2. Elements Used in the Project
Your contractor will tell you that while there is no written rule, there are certain elements that you can and can’t use to landscape your front yard. Same goes with the backyard as well.
However, there is a difference between the elements you can use in either case.
Elements you can use in your front yard
Here are some of the common elements you can use in your front yard landscaping project:
- A well-defined front lawn.
- Decorative plants and flower beds.
- Walkways and driveways.
- Garden borders and edging.
- Small ornamental trees or shrubs.
Elements you can use for Backyard landscaping
Backyard landscaping projects often features:
- Patios and decks for outdoor dining and occasions
- Water features such as fountains, ponds, or pools
- Play areas
- Vegetable or herb gardens
- Outdoor kitchens and fire pits for entertainment
3. Seasonal Appeal
This is an overlooked aspect. But as most experienced landscaping contractors will tell you, it is important to consider the seasonal appeal when choosing between front yard and backyard landscaping.
Seasonal Appeal for Front Yard
It is common knowledge that the front yard is highly visible year-round. Therefore, your front yard should have a balanced appeal for all seasons. Most contractors achieve it by planting evergreen shrubs, using seasonal flowers, and incorporating decorative elements like garden statues or lighting.
Seasonal Appeal for Backyard
The backyard’s seasonal changes are usually customized to the homeowner’s lifestyle. Seasonal plantings, shade structures, and outdoor heating solutions can help extend usability throughout the year.
As you can see, there are significant differences between the two. Therefore, it is important to understand the key differences and then choose the right approach.
Best Practices for Front Yard Landscaping
The best thing that you can do is to work with a landscaping contractor.Apart from that, here are some of the best practices that you should follow:
1. Focus on Curb Appeal
A well-landscaped front yard will increase the home’s curb appeal and overall value. To achieve that, it is recommended to use a mix of perennials and annuals to keep the landscape vibrant all year round.
2. Lay Down Clearly Define Pathways and Entryways
Make sure that you have clearly defined walkways which are generally made of pavers, bricks, or stepping stones. This creates an inviting entrance. You can also try out bordering pathways with shrubs or flowers to further enhance their visual appeal.
3. Choose Low-Maintenance Plants
It is recommended to go for native plants and drought-resistant species, as that will reduce your maintenance efforts. Mulch beds help retain moisture and prevent weed growth.
4. Install Landscape Lighting
Try to install outdoor lighting along pathways, driveways, and garden features. This will improve safety and add to the nighttime curb appeal.
Best Practices for Backyard Landscaping
Now, let us take a look at some of the tips you can follow when it comes to backyard landscaping
1. Use Privacy Features
Make use of fencing, tall plants, or pergolas to create a sense of privacy. Climbing vines and trellises can also be used to provide privacy while adding a decorative touch at the same time.
2. Create Comfortable Seating Areas
The backyard is a place for relaxation. So, try to include a patio, deck, or pergola with comfortable seating. This can transform your humble backyard into a relaxing retreat. While choosing outdoor furniture, make sure that they are weather-resistant and arranged for maximum comfort.
3. Add Water and Fire Features
Water features like fountains or small ponds add a sense of tranquility. On the other hand, fire pits or outdoor fireplaces create a cozy ambiance for gatherings.
