Landscaping with Purpose: Creating Curb Appeal That Builds Community

“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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

1. 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.

2. 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

3. 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. 

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4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

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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.