Everyone wants to feel a sense of pride and accomplishment in their home, and this sentiment drives developers to create appealing and cohesive streetscapes in new estates.
When building a new home in a modern estate, you'll likely receive a set of design guidelines crafted to ensure your front garden aligns with the overall aesthetic and character of the neighborhood.
These guidelines typically address various aspects of your front garden, including:
Plant Types: Developers often specify which plants are acceptable for front gardens to ensure that vegetation complements the overall design and maintains a harmonious look throughout the estate. Approved plants are selected for their visual appeal, ease of maintenance, and suitability to the local climate. Native plants are preferred for their adaptability and minimal upkeep.
Fencing: The guidelines may include rules regarding the type and placement of fencing. Restrictions might cover the height or style of fences in the front garden to prevent visual clutter and maintain an open, welcoming streetscape. Fencing regulations ensure that barriers do not obstruct views or detract from the property’s overall appearance.
Balance of Hard versus Soft Landscaping: Developers provide guidance on the balance between hard landscaping elements (such as driveways, paths, and patio areas) and soft landscaping (like lawns, garden beds, and shrubs). This balance is essential for creating an aesthetically pleasing and functional garden that integrates seamlessly with the surrounding environment.
These regulations help maintain a cohesive appearance throughout the estate and protect your home’s value.
Our Senka Homes landscape design team shares their insights on common developer requiments:
- Lawn: Artificial lawns are usually not permitted in front gardens. Developers prefer natural grass for its aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits, such as cooling the surrounding area and supporting local wildlife. Artificial lawns, while low maintenance, may not align with the natural look that developers aim to maintain.
Site Coverage: Developers may specify the ratio of hard surfaces (like decking and pavers) to soft landscaping (such as planting). This ensures a balanced integration of hardscape elements and green spaces, enhancing both the visual appeal and usability of the garden.
Canopy Trees: You might need to include one or two canopy trees in your front yard. Canopy trees provide shade, contribute to the aesthetics, and offer environmental benefits like improved air quality and reduced heat absorption. They also help create a more cohesive streetscape by adding vertical interest.
Concealed Services: Clotheslines, bin areas, and services like hot water and air-conditioning units should be hidden from view. Concealing these elements helps maintain a clean and visually appealing front garden.
