As you plan your new custom home, it’s easy to get swept up in interior finishes, fixtures, and floorplans. But don’t overlook what’s outside your front door. Your exterior landscaping is just as important as your interior design—it’s the first impression visitors will see, and it sets the tone for your entire home.
Designing with the Land in Mind
Before construction begins, work with your designer to think through how your home will sit on the land. Where are the best views? Do you want space for a future garden, outdoor kitchen, water feature, or patio? Planning early allows you to shape the land in ways that maximize both functionality and beauty—and can save time and money down the road.
Lighting, Shade, and Passive Solar Benefits
Just as lighting plays a vital role inside your home, natural light matters just as much outdoors. Strategically placed trees and shrubs influence how light filters into your living spaces. To help regulate temperature, consider planting oaks or maples on the west side of the home for afternoon shade, while keeping the south side more open to allow for passive solar gain in the colder months.
Also, remember to clear stumps and fallen branches at least 50 feet from your log home. This helps reduce the risk of wood-boring insects and keeps your landscape healthier and safer.
Smart Planting for Every Season
Choosing a mix of annuals and perennials can provide vibrant color throughout the changing seasons. Look for hardy, low-maintenance, and deer-resistant plants that thrive in your region. Pairing these plantings with thoughtful walkways and borders can make your home feel welcoming from the very first step.
However, be sure to leave at least 3 to 5 feet of space between plantings and your home’s exterior. Proper airflow prevents mold, mildew, and insect issues that can damage log walls over time.
Drainage and Grading Matter
Proper grading and drainage are essential for protecting your foundation and preventing standing water, which can attract mosquitoes and damage gardens. Work with your team to ensure the land slopes away from the home and consider incorporating rain gardens or French drains where needed.
Plan Ahead for Future Outdoor Features
Even if you’re not installing them right away, now is the time to think about outdoor kitchens, pools, play areas, or vegetable gardens. Prepping those areas during your initial build will make it easier to expand in the future—with less disruption to your lawn or hardscaping.
Consult with a Landscaping Professional
Before planting, consult a local landscaper who can assess your soil and help you choose the right trees, shrubs, and flowers based on your budget, maintenance preferences, and aesthetic goals. A good landscape plan adds lasting value to your home, enhances privacy, and contributes to a more enjoyable, livable outdoor space.
Let Your Style Start at the Curb
Curb appeal isn’t just about beauty—it’s about creating a space that reflects your lifestyle and welcomes you home. Just as you personalize your interiors, let your outdoor spaces tell your story too.
Happy planning—and happy planting!
Article by JoAnn Drumm, Customer Administrator
