When my husband and I made the decision to modernize our front yard, we knew we were stepping into uncharted territory. Since our home had distinct Tuscan-style elements, it was questionable if the two styles could coexist harmoniously. We envisioned a space that echoed modern simplicity with clean lines and a welcoming vibe that would elevate our home’s curb appeal. However, we quickly realized we weren’t the DIY types—this transformation would require professional expertise.

My first step was going through home improvement booklets that I received in the mail. These booklets filled with images seemed like a good starting point. I called a few companies that caught my eye, and they were kind enough to come out and discuss our project. However, I soon realized that my vision was murky at best. I couldn’t quite articulate what I wanted, especially with our irregularly shaped yard, a small courtyard, and a pony wall that needed to be demolished

One of the initial landscapers I spoke with made a suggestion to hire a landscape designer. This idea was like a lightbulb moment for me. After doing some research, I found a designer with excellent credentials and a portfolio that resonated with the style we were aiming for. We scheduled a meeting, and I was immediately impressed by his thoughtful approach and interest in us reaching our landscape goals. I described our desire to modernize the yard with clean lines, a lighted pathway, and steps leading to the front door, which currently lacked a proper doorstep. This meant the obstructing courtyard and pony wall would need to be demolished. Another challenge was a slight step bordering the driveway, a potential trip hazard I wanted to eliminate. Additionally, we needed low- maintenance landscaping with a small grass area and a flowering perennial border for color without constant upkeep

After our discussion, the designer presented a detailed sketch that captured our vision beautifully. He walked me through the design, explaining how each element would work within the space. He considered our climate and recommended plants that would thrive in our zone, offering both material and plant options. I was particularly interested with his suggestion of using turf for our small grass area, which would give us the look we wanted without the maintenance. Later, we even decided to incorporate turf strips into the driveway, adding a sleek, modern touch that would tie everything together. The designer also provided us with a list of reputable landscapers in our area, complete with contact information and reviews. Armed with this comprehensive plan, we were now ready to find the right landscaper for the job.

After our discussion, the designer presented a detailed sketch that captured our vision beautifully. He walked me through the design, explaining how each element would work within the space. He considered our climate and recomaWith the design plan in hand, it was time to find a landscaper who could turn this vision into reality. We knew this was a critical decision—after all, the best design in the world is only as good as the craftsmanship that brings it to life. Fortunately, our neighbor had recently completed a similar project and had nothing but praise for a local landscaping company they had used. Their glowing recommendation was enough to pique our interest. We contacted the company, and after a detailed discussion about the project scope, timeline, and budget, we felt confident in their abilities. They showed us samples or photos of materials, including turf and LED landscape lighting that would be used for our project. The entire project included demolition, new concrete, irrigation, drainage revitalization, installation of turf and turf strips, and landscaping. The contract we signed clearly outlined all aspects of the job. We were finally on the brink of transforming our front yard into the modern update we had envisioned. The next step would be the demolition of the existing courtyard and pony wall, followed by the careful framing of the new pathway and steps that would lead to our front door, setting the stage for the transformation ahead mended plants that would thrive in our zone, offering both material and plant options. I was particularly interested with his suggestion of using turf for our small grass area, which would give us the look we wanted without the maintenance. Later, we even decided to incorporate turf strips into the driveway, adding a sleek, modern touch that would tie everything together. The designer also provided us with a list of reputable landscapers in our area, complete with contact information and reviews. Armed with this comprehensive plan, we were now ready to find the right landscaper for the job.

—Sharon