Backyards have always been a space where homeowners spend time with family and friends. But with more people spending time at home this past year, we saw a similar trend emerge in front yard landscape design. Looking for ways to accommodate socializing at a distance with neighbors, many homeowners revisited their front yard landscape design to foster interactions.

Here’s a look at some of the different ways they achieved this effect…

Planting Shrubs & Flowers

While shrubs and flowers create visual interest and add curb appeal to a front yard landscape design, they also serve as a conversation piece. Neighbors who already have a green thumb (or are interested in getting started) are likely to stop by and admire the plants and ask questions. Tending to the plants also gives you an incentive to be outside more, increasing the odds that you’ll be available to chat when these individuals pass by your home. 

Tip: For the most low-maintenance option, go with native plants as they require less water, less fertilizer and less pesticides to remain healthy.

Source: Green Impressions

Furnishing the Front Porch

When a home’s porch is outfitted with seating — whether it’s in the form of rocking chairs or a hanging swing — the space becomes a more comfortable spot to kick back and unwind. While homeowners enjoy the simplicity of a morning cup of coffee or reading a good book, they’ll have a chance to catch up with others in the neighborhood as they pass by. (Bonus if the front porch includes a table where you can set items while you chit-chat.) A furnished porch also offers the benefit of extra space to entertain when guests come over for a summer barbecue or pool party.

Source: Green Impressions

Adding Landscape Lighting

Socializing with neighbors from the comfort of your front yard doesn’t have to end when the sun goes down. Adding landscape lighting to your front yard design will illuminate the space well into the evening, maximizing the use of your outdoor space and creating a more welcoming environment for neighbors and guests. With plenty of styles to choose from, you can find a type of landscape lighting that not only suits your front yard landscape design but also complements your home’s unique architectural features.

Source: Green Impressions

Front yard landscape design that supports socializing is just one of many residential landscape trends for 2021. Browse other trends and find inspiration in our latest landscape trends guide.