Traditional Saltbox Landscape - Brookfield, WI

As part of an interior remodel, this client also had Modern Edge Design help with a new front entrance and new color scheme for the exterior of the home. After the completion of that first phase, we were brought on board to update the landscaping to complete the makeover. The bluestone and brick walk was already in place, so we focused on the plants in the front of the home.

All of the existing overgrown or declining plants were removed, including a birch tree that had outgrown its space. In its place, we specified an 'Autumn Brilliance' serviceberry with a matching one at the opposite corner of the home. These ornamental trees will add true, four-season interest with their spring flowers, summer berries, amazing fall color, and interesting branching into winter. 'Green Velvet' boxwoods were planted in a sweeping arc to draw attention to the front door with a personal favorite, 'Brachytricha' reed grass, flanking the walk. Noted for its fall bloom, the plumes have a plum tone to them. Adding color around the front walk are long-blooming 'Rozanne' geranium and 'Pardon Me' daylily, which provide a nice contrast to the geranium. Additional perennials are mixed throughout the balance of the front planting bed, and are anchored at either end by 'Summer Wine' ninebark on the sunny end and 'Limelight' hydrangea on the shadier side.

Around the back side of the home, we designed a new brick walk that wraps around the screened porch, connecting deck to driveway. 'Pardon Me' daylily are repeated, this time mixed with 'Blue Fortune' agastache and a Koreanspice viburnum. Boxwoods are also repeated from the front of the home. At the opposite end of the deck, another serviceberry anchors a shade bed up against the chimney of the home. 'Limelight' hydrangea combine nicely with 'Purple Candles' astilbe and 'Guacamole' hosta among others.

Combined with the new paint colors on the home, the new landscaping provides the final touch in this saltbox makeover.