Dear Homework,
We recently purchased a home in need of new landscaping and better front-door guest access and parking. We currently have removed all of the original landscaping and are looking to enhance the overall curb appeal of this very traditional home. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
— Languishing in Ladue
Dear Languishing in Ladue,
The wide, stately façade and generous front lawn allow the possibility of your home feeling like a true ‘estate’ rather than just a house on a street. I suggest eliminating the side driveway and, instead, aligning the approach with the front door. This can create great impact and elegance when the drive, landscape and architecture are all players in a symmetrical, formal scheme.
I would create a large drive court, centered between two tall brick light piers, which I would design to have the same raised quoins as the main house. A 3-foot-tall hedge, cobblestone border and two newly planted shade trees define the court’s perimeter and create an ‘arrival room’ for you and your guests. A service drive to the left connects the court to the garage wing.
The removal of the previous landscaping reveals the need for some vertical evergreens to amplify the front door area. New, tall evergreens also help define the sides of the property. While the existing shade tree is nicely shaped, it seems a little too close for comfort to the house, and it obstructs my symmetrical
planting plan.
These changes impart a new sophistication to your property while also addressing the need for guest access and parking. I hope these ideas inspire.
—Homework
[HomeWork is penned by Paul Doerner, president, The Lawrence Group. If you would like your home critiqued, contact us at homework@townandstyle.com]
