Congratulations, your new home is complete and now it’s time for the final touch that brings the whole vision together, your front yard landscaping.

A well-designed front yard is more than just plants and pathways. It frames the architecture, enhances your curb appeal, and sets the tone for the rest of your home. Even though the space is often smaller and more limited than a backyard, it offers endless potential when you approach it with intention.

So, where do you start?

Below are our top tips to help you create a stunning front yard that’s beautiful and practical.

 

Keep it low maintenance

A set and forget garden sounds great and it’s absolutely achievable.

Choose durable, low-effort plants.

Opt for perennials that return each year without the need for constant replanting or fussing. Hardy shrubs, succulents, and ground covers are your best friends, delivering greenery and texture with minimal work.

Reconsider the traditional lawn

Lawns look great, but they can be thirsty and time-consuming. Instead, think about:

  • Gravel or stone pathways
  • Mulch or bark chips to suppress weeds
  • Concrete or stone pavers to break up garden beds
  • Dense ground covers for lushness without mowing

These alternatives add visual appeal, structure, and practicality all with much less upkeep.

 

Lean Into Australian Natives

Australian natives are perfectly adapted to our hot, dry summers, making them a smart choice for long-term sustainability.
Natives are a great investment as they require far less water, thrive in our soils, offer incredible textures and colours, and attract beneficial wildlife such as birds, bees and butterflies.

Some great options are kangaroo paws, grevilleas, banksias, lilly pillies, or coastal rosemary.

 

Install a Sprinkler or Irrigation System

Watering can be one of the biggest chores in garden care. An automated sprinkler or drip irrigation system ensures your plants get consistent moisture without relying on the hose.
Benefits of an automated system are reduced water waste, keeps plants thriving through peak summer heat, maintains the garden while you are away, and saves hours of manual watering

Set it on a timer, adjust seasonally, and let it do the work for you.

 

Add Evergreens for year round greenery

Evergreen plants are the backbone of a landscape design.

They are rich in colour throughout every season, add natural screening for privacy, shade and protect from sunlight and create height and shape variants against your home facade.

Murraya, photinia, viburnum, and lilly pilly varieties are popular choices that pair beautifully with natives.

 

Create a Standout Garden Feature

A well-chosen garden feature adds personality to your entrance.

Great front-yard feature ideas:

  • A sculptural statement piece
  • A bird bath or water bowl
  • A modern fountain or water wall
  • A bench seat
  • Oversized or colourful plant pots
  • A raised garden bed or corten steel edging

 

Work With Layers and Height

A visually appealing garden uses layers to create depth.

Try taller shrubs or trees at the back, medium plants in the middle and ground covers, grasses, or flowers along the front. This approach softens hard edges, adds dimension, and prevents the space from looking flat or sparse.

 

Don’t Forget Lighting

Outdoor lighting transforms your landscaping at night and boosts security, a little lighting can go a long way in helping showcase your garden.

Use pathway lights to guide visitors, uplights to highlight trees or architectural features, and warm festoon or LED strip lighting for ambience.

 

Use Mulch Wisely

Mulch isn’t just practical, it improves the whole look of your garden beds.

Benefits:

  • Reduces soil moisture loss
  • Prevents weeds
  • Keeps soil temperatures stable
  • Gives a polished finish

Choose a mulch colour that complements your plants and facade.

 

Bringing It All Together

Front yard landscaping doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. With smart plant choices and a practical layout, you can create a front yard that beautifully completes your new home.

If you’re looking for somewhere to call home and create your perfect landscape vision, why not take a look at Watsons Reach in Diggers Rest? For more information, contact Andy on 1300 028 728 or visit www.watsonsreach.com.au

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