Driveways typically are all about function and very little about aesthetics. In fact, the driveways installed when a home is built tend to go from the street to the garage in the straightest line possible. Fortunately, landscaping a driveway can help make it a star attraction or at least a bit more beautiful. Here are five tips to consider.
Add Some Curves
Curving lines always add interest to a landscape design. When we draw up plans for our landscaping clients, we often change the driveway layout to incorporate a curve if possible. If a straight driveway is the only option, adding curved beds along its length can soften the harsh straight lines. To allow homeowners to get the feel of a new driveway layout, we sometimes paint the drive’s new “footprint” onto the site so they can practice driving and parking along it. If you have plenty of space, a round driveway can bring a touch of elegance to your home.
2. Accommodate Everyone
Think about who parks in your driveway and consider adding a camouflaged parking pad. Maybe you have older children with cars of their own, a cleaning service that regularly parks at your house or other vehicles on site. Adding a parking pad can help you avoid constantly moving cars. Landscaping a driveway parking pad can help it blend with its surroundings. We often include taller plants to shield a view of the extra cars from the street or the home.
3. Landscaping a Driveway with Hardscaping
Think about the entrance to your driveway from the street. Is it kind of lackluster? Adding wing walls, columns or planting beds blends a driveway into the landscaping and creates a strong first impression. Stone walls make a beautiful backdrop for plantings. A good hardscaping design will always keep safety in mind: You wouldn’t want to block the view of oncoming traffic at the end of your driveway.
4. Amp Up Curb Appeal
For safety and beauty, it’s a good idea to line the driveway with path lights or define the entrance with post lights. Especially if a driveway curves, good lighting will help drivers stay on track. Exterior lighting fixtures from the street to planting beds to the front door can match and complement your home’s style.
5. Soften with Bedding
You don’t want your driveway to stick out like a sore thumb. Landscaping a driveway with trees or planting beds in pockets or all along the length of the drive relieves the stark contrast of pavement. Consider stamped concrete, bricks or pavers to add texture to the driveway surface. Lining the edges of a driveway with river rocks or pretty stone curbing creates a clean look.
Landscaping a Driveway in Cincinnati
If you’d like to transform your dull driveway into a lovely entrance to your home, we would love to talk about your options. Contact us today to schedule a no-obligation consultation.