Southampton - You can tell the season is transitioning here in The Hamptons, as Main Street is beginning to awaken with colorful planters, people enjoying an afternoon lunch outside, and music softly echoing out of local shops. Your landscape at home should be coming out of hibernation now too with budding trees, greening lawns, and the sweet perfumes of spring flowers. Soon, there will be no separation between the indoors and outdoors, and we can begin living outside again and enjoying our gardens. What a treat!

Light the way: The pathway to your home should be as intriguing in the day as in the evening. (Barry Block)

But what if you feel your property lacks that "wow factor" to really kick off the season in full swing? Don't worry, it doesn't mean you have to do a complete yard overhaul - just small enhancements that will make a big difference now and in the long run. The key element is curb appeal. It has been said for many years that "a first impression is a lasting impression." How you maintain and design your home's interior is as important as its exterior. The front entrance is the first thing people see upon arrival. You want to make a positive impression that is memorable and favorable from the street, drawing your visitors in.

Design With Views
When enhancing your front entry, it is necessary to understand the views that one will see. You want to make the "journey" as pleasurable as the final destination. Here, lush and colorful Hydrangeas and Ornamental Grasses line the driveway and direct you toward the bluestone pathway set in grass, ultimately leading you to the front door.

Light The Way
The pathway to your home should be as intriguing in the day as in the evening. Not only will it illuminate the way, but it shows your visitors you value creating a strong presence. Here, Callery Pear beautifully bloom in the day and are transformed at night with an ambient glow from up lighting. Even if you don't have a long driveway with room for an allee, incorporating soft lighting to accent certain trees and structures will establish an inviting feel.

Courtyard Class
Depending on the layout of your property, a beautiful gravel driveway leading to an elegant courtyard is a great way to signify to guests that they have arrived and also provide ample parking.



Frame That View
One simple and fast way to add instant curb appeal and value to your home is by adding seasonal planters at your entry and along the pathway leading up to it. Not only does it frame your doorway, but it provides a great opportunity to keep adding various colors, textures, and interest throughout the seasons, always giving you a fresh new look. Here, annual planters with cascading color adorn this threshold. It you want to create a more distinctive and profound planter, try using large-leafed foliage plants, such as this Taro.

Plan Early
And remember, no matter what curb enhancement you choose, it is best to start early with your ideas since they will be fresher in your mind and you will feel more inspired - especially now with the great weather! We all know how quickly summer will come and the Hamptons will be booming once again. Get ahead of scheduling and have more options now so you can start enjoying your garden today.

Incorporating some of these elements into your already existing landscape will help to create a unique and strong front entrance that defines your home. This update will also increase your overall property value, and best of all, it doesn't have to break the bank. We have all seen the TV shows on how to update, sell, and renovate your home - it all starts with creating a lasting impression.

As the old saying goes, "you only get one chance to make a first impression." So make it a great one!