Dear Homework,
Two years ago you helped me with my Christmas decorations, and I need your thoughts again. MSD is going to be replacing the sewer that runs under the sidewalk separating my side yard from my neighbor’s side yard. I anticipate that most of the lackluster planting in both our yards will be trampled. I’m wondering if a more formal scheme of three tiers—a line of perennial flowers backed by a boxwood hedge, further backed by tall ornamental grasses—would yield a more cohesive overall presentation?

Sincerely,
—Forced Opportunity

hmk-img_1178Dear Forced Opportunity,
When I first sketched your three-tier suggestion, I was surprised by the effect. By repeating the themes that exist at the front of the house, your property not only looks more cohesive, it also looks about two and a half times bigger. It does this by drawing the eye along the total length of the side yard and basically capturing that undeveloped area with the new architectural treatment.

I’d like to offer a few additional suggestions. First, cap the left side of the new tiers with a grouping of tall, thin evergreens. Next, to the right of the existing shade tree, I would plant a tall evergreen hedge to block out the distractions of your neighbor’s deck and garage. Finally, I would place two large pots with seasonal plantings to capture even more territory.

Thanks for the interesting question,
—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.