After the Storm

Dear Homework,
We recently lost a large shade tree during a storm. After it was hauled away, we began to see our front yard in a new light. We have often thought about adding a circle drive to ease our parking issues, but our landscaper suggested a parking court. We also wish that our front porch could be much deeper so we can really use it. What do you think about these possible changes?

Thanks for your thoughts,
— After The Storm

Dear After The Storm,
At the moment, you and your guests are forced to focus on your single car garage door rather than your front door due to the fact that the existing driveway is, by default, also the entry walk. A new parking court, entered from the center of the property, would be a great way to put the focus back on the primary part of the facade. If you border the court with evergreen hedges you will frame the house and hide the parked cars at the same time. Two new shade trees could also be added to bracket the composition, and new stone light piers add a stately finishing touch.

If you expand the front porch, you will probably need to use a standing seam metal roof, since it will probably be too shallow to use shingles. I would try to have the metal match the color of the existing roof. I might also suggest new wider, craftsman style columns with stone bases that I think would complement the style of the home better.

I think all of these changes could add a new dignity to your property, and all it took was a strong wind to act as the catalyst. Thank goodness the tree didn’t hit the house.

Hope these thoughts help,
—Homework

Homework is penned by Paul Doerner, Founding Partner of the Lawrence Group. if you would like your home critiqued, contact us at homework@townandstyle.com.