There’s no denying that curb appeal is powerful, but rather than treating it as a tool to entice the next owner, consumers are using their front yards as a space for personalization.
According to Thumbtack’s Curb Appeal Report, which surveyed more than 1,000 homeowners across the country, nearly one in seven respondents are using their outdoor space to reflect their values or personality. Meanwhile, more than one in 10 are opting to make bold visual statements through color or design.
“Homeowners are increasingly viewing their yards as a creative outlet, not as a status symbol or a way to maintain appearances in their neighborhood,” says Kendra Sinclair, Thumbtack’s design trends expert. “There are many low-cost ways to experiment with design — most spend under $500 — helping make bold choices feel low-risk and reversible. The shift is also a result of people embracing more ‘analog living’ moments in their home.”
Nearly two-thirds of homeowners say they are updating their plants, flowers or greenery this season while one in three are opting to refresh their front doors, entryways or outdoor lighting.
“It’s typically safest to pour your self-expression into plants, texture, and seasonal color rather than permanent changes or structures, like a new walkway or mailbox,” Sinclair says. “Swappable additions like planters and door color are low-risk, but it’s always worth checking with your HOA before painting your front door a bold shade like marigold yellow. Good lighting design is expressive and rarely restricted, as long as the lumens are not seen as disruptive at night.”
Some of the colors consumers are opting for include bold greens and warm, creamy neutrals.
These changes in front yard aesthetics are being driven by a desire to create spaces that feel calmer and allow homeowners to enjoy their day, with 35% saying they are investing in their outdoor spaces to create a relaxing, stress-free environment.
“Lavender, rosemary, and jasmine are fragrant plants that are sure to help relax, and they do well in planters and in the ground,” Sinclair says. “Ornamental grasses do well in the ground year-round, have great movement, require little upkeep, and tend to work across climates. Native pollinator plants, like the butterfly bush, can mean more birds and butterflies, which contributes to a zen-like feel in your yard.”
One of the main investments homeowners are prioritizing is upgrades that help with a sense of privacy and escape from the outside world. More than 50% of homeowners are upgrading their spaces with fences, patios, and awnings. Sinclair adds that vertical features can maximize a property’s footprint while providing privacy.
“This can look like trellises with fast-growing vines, living walls of narrow evergreens, and tall full planters,” Sinclair says. “Pergolas and louvered awnings can provide shade and screening without taking away from usable lawn space.”
As more individuals invest in their landscapes, it is creating a feeling of ‘yard envy’ in more than half of respondents. Sinclair says when a yard evokes a sense of relaxation, it is most likely to inspire neighbors as well.
“The landmarks of a well-maintained yard include lush well-kept plantings, tasteful lighting that extends yard usage into the evening, and a distinctive-but-fitting color scheme,” Sinclair says.
