Leona Lewis makes her front yard look beautiful with these 3 simple design tips – and there is no grass involved

Front yards are often an afterthought, even though they're more on show than our backyards. A well-planned front yard can also help reduce street noise and pollution, give privacy, and shade, support wildlife, and have a positive effect on where we live. And passers-by will love looking at your perfect plot. Beautiful front yard landscaping ideas are imperative to the overall first impression you give your guests.

And it's not just about getting a perfect lawn. Getting rid of turf can open up a new world of design possibilities. While we love the idea of an expanse of green lawn, the truth is it's a hard look to achieve in these times of drought, so many are now looking to no-grass front yard ideas for sustainability and to enhance curb appeal. If you want a lush green front yard, a lawn (parched or otherwise) isn't the only option. In fact, British singer Leona Lewis's front yard is completely devoid of grass. Situated in California, this front yard is a thing of architectural beauty. Designed to blend in with its surroundings, the carefully curated courtyard garden and paving is a lesson in how to adapt to your surroundings. 

Here's how the musician has mastered the no-grass lawn and the tips and tricks she's used to add the most curb appeal.

In urban and suburban areas, homeowners are redesigning their front plots to create privacy with low walls or native plants; as sunny spots to grow herbs, flowers, and vegetables; and to gain extra living space by building patios or decks. But there are a few other elements you can use to turn your front yard or patio into an extension of your home and personality. 

1. Introduce an earthy color scheme

The power of paint is often overlooked when planning a front yard update – but it shouldn't be. Nowadays, durable formulas that are suited for outdoor use come in a wide range of gorgeous shades; but if you wish to replicate Leona Lewis' serene space, then decorating with neutrals is the way to go. 

The power of a neutral color palette to add warmth and elegance to a front yard should not be underestimated. A soft scheme of harmonious neutrals creates a reflective backdrop to the ever-changing light of the seasons. A front yard that not only chimes with nature but also complements the neighboring properties will enhance your home and could increase resale value.

2. Enhance with a symmetrical layout 

If your frontage is decidedly off-putting, a radical makeover can transform it from ugly duckling to prime property, and there is no better – or easier – way to do so than with a symmetrical layout. Symmetry in interior design is a design trick that has been used for centuries to create balanced rooms, but it works just as well outdoors.

The best way to use symmetry in a garden is by having an architectural feature as a starting or center point. The double doors in this space act as the 'visual anchor' for a pair of symmetrical planters and wall-hung lanterns on either side. It brings a sense of comfort and rhythm to a space which is an integral part of the design approach.

3. Invest in drought-tolerant planting 

If you want to make a front yard look nice, then investing in the best patio plants can make all the difference. Today, many gardeners want to utilize plants that are resilient and drought-tolerant, gardening responsibly by using as little water as possible. In regions facing ongoing drought challenges, such as California, the flora of this often arid region should guide our planting choices. 

'Drought-tolerant plants such as olive trees, ornamental grasses, Californian poppy, and lavender work well in a space that doesn't get much rain,' says Ben Skinner of Town & Country Gardens.

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