Hedge-Lined Path

• To create a formal look for your front yard, line the pathway that leads to your home's entrance with hedges. Hedges form a wall along your walkway to serve as a fence-like structure. They provide a symmetrical look because they are all the same height, width and thickness. To increase the symmetrical look, opt for straight hedges instead of curved. Hedges come in a variety of sizes, so you choose an option that fits the scale of your home. Consider yew, privet, boxwood and arborvitae for a hedge wall.
  
  

Entry-Side Flower Pots

• Adding color to your home's front entrance highlights the area and makes it more welcoming to guests. Place flowerpots on either side of your front steps to incorporate color and texture. To keep the look symmetrical, use the same type of flowers on each side. Keep the colors consistent as well, and ensure that the displays are all the same height. Depending on the size of your home, you may opt for one large pot on each side of the landing or create groupings of two to three smaller pots on each side. Consider placing a pot on the ends of all the steps for a tiered effect.
  
  

Foundation Shrubs

• Adding shrubs along your home's foundation on either side draws attention to your home and softens its sharp lines. For a simple, clean look, plant a single columnar or pyramidal shrub on either side of your home's entrance. These types of shrubs are taller so they generally fit the height of an entryway better than smaller plants. Opt for evergreen shrubs or flowering shrubs to add color to the foundation. If you wish to break up the long line of your home's siding or exterior material, plant a series of shrubs on either side of your front door. Smaller, rounded or arching shrubs, such as honeysuckle or azaleas, typically work best for this purpose. Pair taller shrubs with smaller ones for a textured look, but follow the same pattern on both sides of the door to maintain a symmetrical landscape design.
  
  

House-Framing Trees

• Trees can add height and depth to your front landscape, providing a more balanced look. When creating a symmetrical design, tree placement is crucial because they are such dominant features. Using trees to frame your home is an ideal way to create a symmetrical look and showcase your architecture. Larger trees are ideal for framing, but don't place them too close to your front door because they may obscure the entryway. Instead, place a single tree at both ends of your home. This setup focuses attention within the borders of your property and makes your house the focal point of the landscape.