bardwell

Behind the Build: A Curated Process

November 4, 2025 by bardwell

The homebuilding process always begins with the lot and its questions: Where will the sun rise and set? How will people enter? What will they see? From this very first moment, we approach every new home as a coordinated execution of countless small decisions. Everything begins with selecting the right trades and guiding design choices, so that each aspect aligns for our homeowners. At Bardwell Homes, we work to earn each homeowner’s trust through an exceptional building experience defined by open communication and integrity.

Curating the Right Partners

The Bardwell homebuilding process hinges on pulling together the best trades and managing their interplay. Integrity, professionalism, and shared values, especially hospitality, are non-negotiables. Each defines how we select our trade partners and designers. Our “secret sauce” is not only choosing the right people, but then directing them in a way that keeps the client, the market, and the budget in balance. For clients seeking new construction homes in Baton Rouge, that cohesion is invaluable.

Home Selections and Design

Interior design can feel overwhelming with so many options. Most people simply want help narrowing them down. That’s why we curate with intention—guiding you through choices to create a beautiful home through a clear and enjoyable process.

This is the philosophy behind our selection room at Bardwell Homes. Though it may not be the largest in town, it was designed with purpose and guided by Baton Rouge’s top design experts. Our refined selection of timeless, proven materials helps clients explore their creativity while avoiding decision fatigue and fleeting trends they may later regret.

Our designers walk alongside homeowners, helping them make choices that reflect both lifestyle and longevity. Marble or quartz? Modern or classic? They’re two sides of the same question at the heart of our process: how will this serve you in the decades to come—and how will it all come together?

Beginning with the End in Mind

We always begin with the end in mind. When you build a new home with Bardwell, we finalize all selections before construction ever begins. That way, you know exactly what to anticipate. Plus, it minimizes mistakes and eliminates unwanted surprises.

This applies from the earliest site evaluation to the final walk-through. And, our philosophy extends beyond the walls of a single home and into the community. We don’t design one house to stand out. Instead, we design streetscapes, so all the homes complement one another. The goal is cohesion so that neighborhoods feel intentional, fostering places where generations can grow, connect, and thrive.

The Technology That Brings It All Together: Buildertrend

We believe that excellent homebuilding is only possible through constant, clear communication and a commitment to transparency. It sounds simple, but the execution of these pillars requires dedication and experience. Building a home is one of the most significant investments most families will ever make, and we’ve helped to make the process much more manageable by employing technology like Buildertrend.

Buildertrend is a leading construction management platform that transforms the complex world of scheduling, cost management, and client communication into a clear and accessible experience for homeowners. Through a secure online portal, clients can:

-Approve and manage selections on their home

-Track schedules and deadlines

-Review photos and logs from the job site

-Communicate directly with the Bardwell team

It transforms what could be a confusing and clunky process into one that’s direct, effective, and reassuring. For clients building semi-custom or custom homes in Baton Rouge and Covington, we can provide peace of mind through every step.

By integrating Buildertrend deeply into its process, Bardwell eliminates the guesswork. You don’t have to wonder where your project stands, you can simply see it, in real time, from the foundation pour to the final walkthrough.

A Vision of Home

Ultimately, what sets Bardwell apart is not a single element, but the coordination of the entire process. It’s the partnerships with trusted trades and the curated selections of enduring classics that set the backdrop of community living.

The result is a beautiful new home, full of thoughtful details and designed to stand the test of time. This will reveal itself in obvious ways – like the stunning, exposed wood beams in the living areas or the sleek countertops in a sun-filled kitchen. But, there’s quieter revelations as well – like well-placed outlets tucked away in a utility room, or the way natural light moves through a primary bedroom. These discoveries are only possible because the foundation is built on our proven process of integrity and collaboration.

For those ready to start their homebuilding journey, we invite you to visit Bardwell Homes. Explore our portfolio of quality homes across Louisiana and see how our process, design, and community vision come together in every build.

Hospitality in Home Building: Translating Bienvenue into Bardwell

September 4, 2025 by bardwell

Think of the last place you felt truly welcomed. Was it your family home or a gathering with friends? Perhaps your place of work or worship? Not everyone can provide this ephemeral thing—hospitality. It is an intangible quality that lives in rhythm and atmosphere, and mainly in the spirit of those offering it. At its best, hospitality creates a sense of belonging with an open invitation to connection.

At Bardwell, we build communities with this same spirit. Because in places where hospitality thrives, you can give the best of yourself to those you love and to everyone you gather. While it’s never just about the material or design, they are the backdrop that sets how you can best make a place feel like home for everyone who encounters it.

Building ‘Bienvenue’ with Bardwell

Hospitality is not an add-on, nor is it as easily integrated as a community amenity. It is a foundational component of a warm home. And for us, it begins long before a family moves in. From the first walk of a construction site to a client’s preselection meeting to the day a family crosses their new finished threshold, we prepare with intention and anticipate the needs of those who will inhabit the space.

Hospitality: An Ethic of Preparation

When you welcome someone into your home or into a meeting or a conversation, it reveals something deeper – the service of preparation. Like we set a table for friends – we cook dinner, we clean our house, we open the door– and it’s only then that we invite them in. Hospitality is the “how” behind the work – the act of careful anticipation and subsequent organization that drives thoughtful design and informs every interaction.

For Bardwell, hospitality means readiness at every level: homes designed with intuitive flow and sight lines that guide connection in private spaces and in semi-public ones, like the streetscape. It’s lighting that sets the mood or circulation that feels natural. Hospitality displays itself in a job site that is organized for the tradespeople who arrive each day, in the review of selections for clients to feel at ease and free to create.

The Relationship Between Hospitality and Quality

As community homebuilders in Baton Rouge, hospitality must always begin with quality. Because quality is the integrity on which everything else works. It’s a non-negotiable principle that transcends price points and taste. It’s maintaining integrity throughout the design process to avoid superfluous or trendy additions that distract from the core purpose of the home – to welcome those who live in it and those who visit.

Hospitality is the spirit of delivery. It’s the manner in which quality is offered and experienced. Hospitality informs the way we think through the details and the big picture. And, sometimes that spirit is revealed not in what is added, but in what is restrained.

Prospective homeowners embark on new construction with various budgets and styles, yet our job is to guide them toward decisions that reflect their core values rather than overselling what’s trendy or passingly exciting. It’s anticipating how each family will actually live—how they will gather, connect, and feel at ease within their new home.

Translating Warmth into the Plans

Creating a sense of welcome begins with the architecture itself and continues through the details that shape daily living. At each step, we ask: What are our homeowners really looking for? How can we offer hospitality in the process, so that comfort, creativity, and trust come naturally?

In the Design: We think about what feels intuitive and comfortable – spaces where people can connect and be comfortable. Certain design gestures have become hallmarks of this philosophy:

▪️ a widened kitchen work aisle that allows for easy conversation while cooking
▪️ the downstairs placement of a primary bedroom to balance privacy with accessibility
▪️ windows positioned to frame a view or capture the arc of daylight.

Each is subtle, but together they cultivate a rhythm of welcome.

In the Experience: We conduct meetings that are prepared and thoughtful, where clients feel not only accommodated but invited to take part in shaping their home. Simply, it’s our job to anticipate needs, honor expectations, and quietly work to exceed them immediately and in quiet, enduring ways.

Extending Hospitality to the Job Site

Hospitality is not reserved for homeowners alone. It extends to the trades and partners who help realize each design. Our expertise lies in managing the process with clarity and intention. We begin with the end in mind.

Small gestures often make the greatest difference. We recently had a mason who was struggling to move bricks up a slippery slope, and the solution was simple – have extra plywood laid down. Hospitality is sometimes as straightforward as paying attention and responding with service in kind. In this case, we helped safeguard the work. And, just as importantly, we saved time and expense, proof that hospitality improves outcomes as much as it elevates relationships.

The same philosophy guides other details on the site: labeling delivery zones so crews can work efficiently, or walking through a plan in advance so questions are answered before tools are lifted. Each act affirms the same belief—that anticipating needs leads to better homes.

The Bardwell Standard

Every decision at Bardwell comes back to values – what we hold as motivation and what our clients prioritize. We evaluate partners for integrity, skill, and professionalism. We balance what matters most to the client with the realities of market, budget, and timing. And, we refine until all of the parts come together with clarity.

It isn’t about silverware or grandeur. It’s about the feeling a home imparts – the quiet assurance that you belong there, and that you are welcome.

In the end, that sense of welcome is not accidental. It is designed, cultivated, and built into the fabric of each new home.

At Bardwell, hospitality is preparation made visible.

Bienvenue Bardwell

Ready to get started on your new home? Bardwell is here to welcome you to the process. Schedule your showing today.

Women Who Build: A Custom Home Story

May 19, 2025 by bardwell

If you arrive at dusk, light pools along the pathway, and the air is full of subtle sweetness wafting from the greenery. And, there in the stunning front archway is homeowner, Emily Bardwell Guillory. This beautiful custom home tucked away in Willow Grove is the culmination of thoughtful collaboration and quiet elegance. Welcome to our completed behind the scenes look at Bardwell’s latest custom home.

Building a Custom Home Begins with a Custom Team of Experts

At the center of this project is Emily. Yet, while her influence shines throughout the home, she knows excellence is never an accident. And, the success of this venture depended on sourcing the right people to carve out the vision . So, she assembled a team of professionals who each brought their own discipline to develop the vision and incorporate depth, interest, and practical elegance. In a traditionally male dominated field, it was unique to have this lead team composed entirely of women, who had a hand in almost every aspect of the build. So many hands contributed to the intention, artistry, and vision of this incredible custom home, but let’s take a look at the result through the perspective of these key players.

Laying the Foundation

Erin Demma, AIA | Owner & Principal Architect, Demma Residential Architects

Social: @demmaarch

The story of this home began with structure, as it always must. Baton Rouge-based architect Erin Demma, a RISD graduate known for her refined yet livable designs, worked closely with Emily in the earliest stages. Their conversations balanced concerns of square footage, rhythm, and flow.

“It’s important to strike the right balance between timeless design and custom additions in a project like this,” Erin said, “I’m very receptive to client input, but my clients also rely on my discretion and expertise to guide their decisions.”

Throughout the home, Erin and Emily added many custom features that make a big impact, though they’re not always apparent at first glance. One of those elements? A scullery kitchen.

“At a glance the entrance into the scullery might be perceived as just a larger walk-in pantry,” Erin explained, “but we took the homeowner’s passion for cooking into consideration and made it an extension of their kitchen. It houses many of their appliances as well as an extra sink and dishwasher to help maintain a clean kitchen when entertaining.”

The spacious kitchen features custom cabinetry and includes several creative, personal elements, like an olive oil nook. These sorts of features work together to change how a home feels and curate a sense of lived in, effortless refinement.

With the bones in place, the project moved inward.

Designing the Space

Hilary Smith Kennedy | Interior Designer, Dixon Smith Interiors

Social: @hilarysmithkennedy, @dixonsmith_interiors

For Hilary Smith Kennedy, interior design is about resonance. She aims to bring a sense of story and sanctuary into each home.

“The client’s personality and lifestyle are almost always the foundation of every interior design choice I make,” Hilary said, “From the beginning, I focus on how they live and what they love. ”

In this custom home, the goal was to layer meaning into every room, blending comfort and craftsmanship in ways that felt both elevated and familiar.

“What was great was Emily’s clear understanding of her own preferences, which allowed me to narrow in on colors, textures and details that supported her aesthetic.”

Their collaboration hinged on mutual trust in process and a shared love for rich, saturated colors that created moods throughout the home. The powder room, with its custom stone sink, is a standout moment.

“When you turn the corner into the powder, it has a distinct pop that is unexpected and expressive – especially on the cinnamon colored walls.”

The primary suite, meanwhile, is a study in tone and depth: rich, saturated hues in the bedroom flow seamlessly into a soft, spa-like bath.

“I love how the master bedroom is a deep saturated color that contrasts to the softer palette in the bathroom,” Hilary said, “but the tones overlap throughout both spaces to create an inviting and welcoming flow.”

The interplay of functionality and emotion works as long as it remains grounded in the home’s overall sensibility.

“These clients love to travel to places like Scotland,” Hilary noted, “so, an old-world feel for certain items was important. Throwing in the use of a plaid rug, organic textures and antique paintings created this multi-level design that had a nod to “Old World” design elements, creating impactful but peaceful spaces.”

Indeed, that ethos carried through details and decor, like heirloom antiques tucked into built-ins or custom drapery that catches the light. Each choice was a story told in fabric and form.

“Walking through the finished home with Emily was incredibly rewarding. I love that moment when all of our planning, design, and hard work materializes into something tangible.”

Space to Breathe

Claire Samaha | Landscape Designer, Newton Landscape Group

Social: @newtonlandscapegroup

Step outside, and the home’s seamless interplay with nature becomes clear. Designed by Claire Samaha, the landscape is composed and lush.

“My vision was for the landscape to feel like a true extension of the home—thoughtful and refined, but still comfortable. I wanted it to support everyday living while echoing the materials, proportions, and rhythm of the architecture.”

Inspired by Emily’s love for English cottage gardens, Claire created planting beds that hum with movement—grasses, soft perennials, and native shrubs.

“The design balances naturalistic planting with clean lines and a clear sense of structure,” Claire explained, “It feels soft and layered, but there’s organization and intention behind how it all comes together.”

One of the main challenges was working with a zero lot line and limited space. Maximizing the parking area while ensuring the driveway flows well for everyday use was essential.

“The layout needed to be strategic to ensure the space functioned well, from parking to circulation” Claire said. “Additionally, with limited space, the focus was on creating defined outdoor “rooms” that feel spacious and functional, providing both privacy and openness where needed.”

The landscape design includes areas for play, gathering, quiet reflection, and gardening, while also framing views from the living and dining rooms to bring the outdoors in.

The Homeowner’s Perspective

Emily Bardwell Guillory | Homeowner, Director of Finance, Bardwell Homes

“I wouldn’t necessarily consider myself an artistic person, but once we reached the finish line and I was walking through the house, I felt like we had created a piece of art.”

For Emily, this project was never just a regular day at work. It was a moment of convergence of desires for her daily life and something tangible for her professional legacy.

“Bardwell Homes, as the builder, was able to be involved from the start with input on plans to its finish as a furnished show home, so it felt like we were truly able to showcase everything we can do with our trusted subs and vendors. So much went into the build, from the overall flow of the house, down to the light switch colors by room, (and so many decisions in between!), and I feel truly honored to have been a part of it.”

With the recent success of Parade of Homes, Emily is already thinking ahead and working on a new asset for clients considering a custom home themselves.

“It includes questions like reviewing door swings for future rug placement, considering gutter downspouts before the hardscaping is poured, and things to consider when choosing dark paint,” Emily explains.

It’s intentional, thoughtful, and precise, just like Bardwell.

Curious about the custom home process?

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What makes a custom home different from a semi-custom or spec home?

A custom home is designed specifically for you, from floor plans to finishes, while semi-custom homes start with pre-designed layouts that allow for some personalization. Spec homes are fully built and ready to move in with limited flexibility.

2. How do I assemble the right team for a custom home project?

Successful custom homes rely on collaboration between architects, interior designers, landscape designers, and builders. Look for professionals who understand your vision, communicate well, and have experience with high-quality residential builds.

3. What should I consider when designing a kitchen for entertaining?

Be realistic about where people will gather when you host and determine ways to make that experience better for everyone. Consider workflow, storage, and secondary prep areas like scullery kitchens. Features like additional sinks, dishwashers, and appliance storage help keep main spaces clean while accommodating guests. Custom cabinetry and personalized nooks, like olive oil or coffee stations, are small additions that pack a punch full of stylistic impact.

4. How do I maximize outdoor space in a custom home, especially on smaller lots?

Strategically plan outdoor “rooms” that serve different functions: play areas, gathering spots, quiet retreats, or gardens. Landscape designers can create a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living, even on zero lot line properties, while maintaining privacy and openness.

5. What are common design challenges in custom homes?

Challenges include lot constraints, balancing aesthetics with practicality, and coordinating multiple contractors. Solutions often involve early planning with the builder, thoughtful space allocation, and flexible design elements that adapt to lifestyle needs.

6. How much input should I have in the custom home design process?

It varies by preference. Some homeowners take a hands-on approach, selecting finishes, furniture placement, and even lighting color by room. Others delegate decisions to trusted architects or interior designers. The key is open communication to ensure expectations are clear.A trusted builder and design team help guide decisions, balancing your vision with budget and practical considerations.

7. Why should I consider building a custom home instead of buying an existing one?

Building a custom home lets you design the layout, finishes, and features to fit your lifestyle, rather than compromising on someone else’s preferences. It ensures your home accommodates your family’s current and future needs while maximizing functionality, comfort, and long-term value.

8. How do I choose the right builder for a custom home?
Look for builders with proven experience in high-quality construction, strong design partnerships, and excellent customer service. Builders like Bardwell Homes guide you from lot selection to finished home, offering advice on cost, materials, and practical design solutions.

9. What are the benefits of hiring a professional team for a custom home?
Ideally, a coordinated team would include an architect, interior designer, landscape designer, and builder. They are the experts you can trust to oversee every detail of your vision. They help balance aesthetics with budget, provide innovative solutions, and create a home that truly reflects your personality and lifestyle.

Photography provided by Kim Meadowlark.

Architecture – JDE Designs
https://www.instagram.com/demmaarch/

Interior Design – Hilary Kennedy with Dixon Smith
https://www.instagram.com/hilarysmithkennedy/
https://www.instagram.com/dixonsmith_interiors/

Landscape Architecture – Newton Landscape Group
https://www.instagram.com/newtonlandscapegroup/

Landscape Install – Outer Spaces
https://www.facebook.com/OuterSpacesLandscapingService

Pots and Fountain – Elegant Earth
https://www.instagram.com/elegantearthinc/

Gas Lanterns – Bevolo
https://www.instagram.com/bevolo/

Mirrors & Glass – M&M Glass
https://www.instagram.com/mmglasscompany/

Outdoor Furniture
Tables: https://www.instagram.com/redonionbr/
Seating: https://www.instagram.com/terraoutdoorliving/

Brick
Supplier: https://www.instagram.com/mcconnell_brick/
Installer: https://www.instagram.com/ljpcontractorsllc/

Front Door – Tully Woodworks

Cabinets – Laville Cabinets
https://www.instagram.com/lavillecabinets/

Flooring, Tile, Lighting, Hardware – Homestead
https://www.instagram.com/homesteadflooringco/

Dining Room Wallpaper – Sanderson Wallcoverings
https://www.instagram.com/sanderson1860/

Little Girl Room Wallpaper – Rebel Walls
https://www.instagram.com/rebelwalls/

Countertops & Kitchen Backsplashes – Stone Interiors
https://www.instagram.com/stoneinteriorsgroup/

Powder Sink – Custom Marble Sink from Turkey

Mantel – Old World Mantels, Baton Rouge

Interior Trimwork – Silas Construction
Installer: https://www.instagram.com/silas_construction/
Supplier: https://www.instagram.com/buildwithholmes/

Lumber – 84 Lumber
https://www.instagram.com/84lumber/

Ironwork – https://www.instagram.com/carpediemiron/

Bardwell Custom Homes : Build for the Long Run

May 1, 2025 by bardwell

The Bardwell Difference

At Bardwell, we combine intuitive touches and thoughtful design to build homes that express your personal style. We believe that unexpected details make homes inspiring. It’s why we let design drive the process behind every Bardwell home.

From the floors to the fixtures, personalize each element of your home’s interior with finishes hand-selected by design professionals. In each step of construction, every curve, line and material selection is planned and implemented with craftsman quality to reflect the real needs of each family and designed with space and style for all occasions.

While fancy finishes and high ceilings alone aren’t quite enough to make a house a home, the customized details in every Bardwell home are designed to simplify your life. Whether it is a trim detail or a perfectly placed nook, no detail is overlooked.

When looking for a home with unique design, look to Bardwell Homes for a blend of tailored Southern style and the luxury of modern living. Inside and out, a home by Bardwell is a build all your own. Some call it thoughtful, we call it The Bardwell Difference.

Why Build with Bardwell

Personalization meets Expertise

We begin by seeking a deep understanding of how you live and how you want your home to support you lifestyle. We combine your vision with our industry expertise to create a home that’s distinctly yours.

Thoughtful Design and Enduring Quality

From smart layouts to locally sourced materials, every detail matters. More than curated finishes, we build homes to stand the test of time, a careful balance of longevity, functionality, and timeless beauty.

A Proven, Trusted Partner

From the first meeting to move-in day, our team prioritizes clear, consistent communication. We value transparency and keep you informed every step of the way to facilitate a stress-free, rewarding experience.

Our Process

1. Secure Land

Build on your own land or choose a lot in one of the several different communities Bardwell has to offer.

2. Architectural Plans

We shape your vision with expert partners (or yours) to design plans that balance beauty, function, and future-ready living.

3. Pricing, Allowances, & Schedules

Get a full cost estimate, selection allowances, estimated build timeline, and draw schedule – all up front and easy to follow.

4. Approval & Construction

Once approved, we break ground. As we focus on the build, you’ll get regular updates, watching your new home come to life.

5. Final Walkthrough

Tour your completed home before closing to survey the final result. Then, get the keys to your new home designed just for you.

What Homeowners Are Saying

“The staff were incredibly friendly, professional, and always willing to answer my questions throughout the process. Everything was completed on time, as promised. I highly recommend Bardwell Homes to anyone looking for a new build.” – George Xue

“After 2 builds and lots of experiences, I can honestly say Scott Bardwell cares about his customers and is a man of great integrity!” – Kayla Silvio

“The attention to detail and the creative use of materials inside and outside of the home were unmatched.” – Scott Berry

“If you’re considering building a new home, I highly recommend taking a look at Bardwell Homes. Our home is everything we wanted it to be.” – Truax Family

Highlights from Parade of Homes 2025

April 25, 2025 by bardwell

Thank you to everyone who visited Bardwell during the Parade of Homes weekend! It was a pleasure to share our latest homes and designs with you. A special thanks from Scott Bardwell, owner of Bardwell Homes—we’re grateful for your support and hope you left feeling inspired by what’s possible when thoughtful design and quality craftsmanship come together.

Move-In Ready Homes in Harveston

Located in South Baton Rouge, Lakes at Harveston offers scenic views, walking trails, a clubhouse, pool, and pickleball courts—perfect for a connected, active lifestyle.

Bardwell Homes is a featured builder in the community, offering move-in-ready and semi-custom homes starting in the low $600s. With timeless design, quality materials, and flexible floor plans, Bardwell makes it easy to build a home that fits your life.

Now available: Naples A (Lot 56), Bruges A (Lot 55), and Nice B (Lot 100).

The Village at Willow Grove Townhomes

Located in the heart of Baton Rouge, The Village at Willow Grove offers upscale townhome living with walkable access to restaurants, shops, and The Dunham School. These 3-bed, 2.5-bath homes are thoughtfully designed with open floor plans, ground-floor primary suites, and high-quality finishes, starting in the $500s.

With three townhomes pending, only one move-in ready, and another under construction, availability in this sought-after neighborhood won’t last long. These homes fit perfectly for those wanting low-maintenance living without compromising style or location.

Custom Homes with Bardwell

Working with our team to build your custom home offers you a unique opportunity to create a space that truly fits your family’s lifestyle, needs, and personal style. With a custom home, you get to choose everything from the floor plan to the finishes, ensuring your home truly reflects you.

We focus on thoughtful design, expert craftsmanship, and making the process clear, inspiring, and enjoyable.

Ready to get started? Contact us to schedule a consultation and begin planning a home that’s built just for you!

Semi-Custom Process with Bardwell

Love the idea of a custom home but want a simpler process? Our semi-custom option lets you personalize key features while relying on the expertise and established process of the Bardwell team. Choose your community, select your lot and floor plan, then make finish selections that match your style. It’s a seamless way to create a home that fits your family—without starting from scratch.

Landscaping with Purpose: Creating Curb Appeal That Builds Community

April 21, 2025 by bardwell

“In the Spring, I have counted 136 different kinds of weather inside 24 hours.”

With an observation like that, Mark Twain sounds like he spent more time in South Louisiana than he did. Homeowners in Baton Rouge know that there is a sweet spot for enjoying the outdoors in relative comfort, and that time is now. Spring brings cool mornings, warm afternoons, and plenty of opportunity to tend to our gardens and spruce up our landscaping.

Whether you’ve just moved into a new Bardwell home or you’re looking to refresh your outdoor space, our landscaping approach will help you create something that adds value to your home and the entire neighborhood.

How Landscaping Brings Neighborhoods to Life

Landscaping is about creating a warm welcome, a tidy place to stroll full of cheerful blooms. Imagine the porches where you’ll chat over coffee or call out to friends walking their dogs. Beautiful landscaping brings life to our neighborhood streets, no matter the size of the yard. Every Bardwell home includes professionally designed landscaping that blends beauty and functionality, primed to thrive in the South Louisiana climate.

We start with a lush centipede for a soft underfoot that’s tough enough to handle the high summer heat and sporadic winter freezes. From there, our front yard beds are planted with intention, adding curb appeal, depth, and visual interest with room for long-term growth. Then, we make the most of your communal space in the front yard, with professionally arranged beds that provide visual interest and promote long-term growth.

Flowers and shrubs add pops of color, texture, and movement, from delicate ground covers to the striking spray of pink roses. Thoughtfully selected to complement the exterior palette of each home, flowers are a simple addition that you can build on each year. Where possible, homeowners love to incorporate functional plants, like rosemary and lavender. These herbs are natural bug-repellents, which helps to address pesky mosquitoes while adding charm and fragrance.

From the curve of a flower bed to a few well-placed potted plants by the door, every element is chosen to enhance both form and function. Whether it’s a brick front walk softened by greenery or a clean, minimalist porch, your home’s exterior becomes a reflection of the pride we take in our communities.

Our hope is that when you start with a strong garden as your base, ongoing maintenance is easier to handle, even for those without a green thumb. Here’s a few tips to consider as we dive into spring.

6 Landscaping Tips for New Construction Homes You Should Consider

Let Your Yard Breathe

New landscaping needs time to settle. If you’ve just moved into a new Bardwell home, give it at least one month to root before making any changes. Focus on watering, weeding, and letting the beauty develop naturally.

Add Layers for Depth

Use varying plant heights and textures to create dimension. This adds instant visual interest and makes your yard feel more established. Think low ground covers in front, medium-height blooms in the middle, and taller greenery in the bac

Curate an Atmosphere

Your yard should feel like an extension of your home. Add a bit of personality with lights, a small bench, or a water feature. Outdoor gas lanterns add a soft ambiance to evening walks. Even something as simple as a few decorative planters or hurricane candles can make the space feel more finished.

Plant Native

If you want your plants to last, choose hardy varieties that thrive in intense heat, humidity, and the occasional freeze. Think beautiful, resilient plants.

Use Herbs as Multipurpose Accents

Herbs like basil, thyme, or lemon balm are wonderful selections that offer function and beauty. In addition to their sweet aroma, they’re useful in the kitchen, plus they repel bugs. Rosemary, lavender, and mint are delicious and great complements for summer cocktails and homemade iced teas.

Maintenance Does the Most

Don’t underestimate the power of clean lines and a tidy space. A swept porch, freshly pressure-washed, contrasted against a fresh bed of mulch under trimmed plants creates a homey polish. A little effort goes a long way to keeping that fresh look and feel.

Beauty at Every Doorstep with Bardwell Homes

Bardwell Homes is first and foremost a community builder.We want our neighborhoods to be places of life and connection. And when every yard reflects care and beauty, the whole community feels it. It’s a shared pride in the land we own, the homes we’ve built, and the lifestyle we’re cultivating.

No matter the size, your front yard is often your first impression to the world. With a little intention and seasonal upkeep, these spaces become the first part of your story.

Looking for inspiration?

Browse our gallery of Bardwell homes to see real yards that showcase what’s possible.