Whether you’re selling your home this autumn or staying put, first impressions always count. Your front garden is the first thing people see when they visit or pass by your home, and how it looks can make a real difference to your neighbourhood reputation and home’s value.
Most of us mourn the loss of our indoor-outdoor lifestyle at the end of summer. After the months of serious heat, the front garden can look a little dried out and worse for wear.
But it doesn’t have to be that way. But you can keep the summer spirit alive outdoors when the temperature drops by creating a warm, stylish autumn-proof haven you'll love spending time in again.
Here are five of the best ideas for reigniting your home’s street appeal into an outdoor space you can start using (almost) all year round – whatever your budget:
- Cover up. If you don’t already have one, adding a veranda or front porch or changing up your balustrading creates a wonderfully inviting welcome and an extra area to relax in. You could add an arbour or pergola to the front of your garage to create an additional outdoor space. Or you could think outside the box and install some retractable awnings. They’re perfect for summer because you can invite the breeze in but, in autumn, you’ll use it to protect yourself from the elements and trap in heat. If you can’t squeeze an awning in, a gazebo or pavilion can create an intimate space in the garden.
- Get cosy. If you do have a front veranda or pergola, consider adding some blankets, cushions and a useful heat source so you can use the space for longer. You could add a freestanding or hanging gas heater to your front porch or the season’s outdoor accessory du jour – a fire pit on the patio or under the pergola (because who doesn't love sitting around a campfire?). Who says built-in firepits can’t live in the front garden, too? And when the neighbours pass by and see you thoroughly enjoying your outdoor space, they’ll be green with envy.
- Fake it till you make it. No room for a fire pit or gas heater? Create the impression of warmth using texture and colour – exposed brick, timber and warm coloured tiles all provide an organic, warm look to your front garden space. Add soft outdoor furnishings in an earthy palette, and you'll feel toasty warm in no time.
- Light a living fire. Deciduous trees are the highlight of autumn gardens where the burst of red, orange, brown and yellow leaves delight the eye and give a sense of warmth. Plant some maples, sapium, cercis or pyrus trees around your outdoor space for a fiery hue – your home will soon be the focal point for the entire street.
- Spruce up your fence. A freshly painted fence and feature gate can instantly refresh your home’s look. If you’re currently sans fence, consider hiring a fence building expert to create a crisp, white picket version that immediately gives your house street appeal. Don't forget to pay a little attention to your mailbox with a lick of contrasting paint to make a statement or splash out on a smart new version altogether. And ensure your street numbers match the style of your house and are easy to see from the curb.