6 t ips to help you get started

1 BE INSPIRED BY WHAT’S ALREADY THERE

First, think about the foundation layer of the scheme – that is, what is not going to change. For example, that your house is made of natural brick, or painted brick, rendered with pebbledash or clad with wood in New England style etc.

2 EMBARK ON A LITTLE WINDOW DRESSING

Consider the appearance of your windows. Would a coat of paint be an improvement? Remember that uPVC windows can be painted too.

3 GROUND FORCE INSPIRATION

Look down and think about whether you want paving or grass. Bear in mind that we need foliage and flowers to keep our bees happy, so it’s not a good idea to just lay paving slabs without also adding some plants in pots – and don’t forget to allow for areas of drainage. If you have a generous budget you could opt for a tile path leading up to the front door – it’s highly decorative but can be costly.

4 A WELCOMING FRONT DOOR

Next, look for front door paint samples and do your swatch test just as you would if you were painting the walls inside your home.

5 SORT OUT THE FINISHING TOUCHES

When you have all of the above on your moodboard, think about the accessories such as door numbers – metal, wooden or tiled? – plants and pots and screening plants for privacy. Then the more practical things such as bin and bike storage. If you want to include a lock-up shed in your front garden, consider growing a green roof with wild flowers and succulents to hide it from view.

6 LET THERE BE LIGHT

And finally, I always advise people to invest in some outdoor lighting for the porch (if you have one), or for the wall beside the door. If you can have them on a timer or a sensor, that’s even better. If your door lights up as you walk up to it, it can add a little bit of magic!