Beginner Gardening: New House, Clean Slate!, 1 by Wifeygirl

Wifeygirl wrote:
Hi Shaded -
I totally know what you mean, that the style of my home does not fit cottage garden. What is the style of my house? Is there a specific name for it? Is it modern?

Here is my problem. I know it's not a cottage, and that it'd probably look most pulled together with some sort of spare, clean, Japanese garden look. But that's just not ME, you know? I love cottage gardening, and the wild abundance of it. However, if I can make minor changes to the home itself or the garden plan that will help this home fit or blend with that type of landscape more, I'll definitely consider them.

My mom commented on a visit that what they neglected on this house was a porch that went all the way across the front. If we were to add that, would that make it work better?

Here are a few answers to your questions:
- Faces West
- We have 4 kids, and one cat.
- The front will need to be both decorative and functional, as we have a nice quiet street that has tons of kids playing at all times, and riding bikes. The one thing I will want is a place to sit and watch the kids riding bikes on the street.
- I have big plans for the backyard (images below) including play structure/swings/pergola/fountain so I imagine we will use the back for entertaining more than the front. As you can see, I have much more distinct plans for the back than I do for the front.
- The view across the street is more houses. They are all much more beautifully/conventionally designed. The house sticks out like a sore thumb - the neighbors called it "The Fortress." I've added another pic for some better perspective, and a pic of the backyard as well.
- We do not look out the front windows very often. It's the formal dining room, which we use at dinnertime only.
- It is our forever home and our blessing given to us from God. We love it. =)

Thank you for engaging with me on this. I'll be interested to hear any and all recommendations.