Residential walkways and entries, like driveways, are often an afterthought for many contractors. Often front entries are equipped with plain, precast concrete steps and have no walkways to get visitors to the door from the driveway or street.
Some homeowners, looking to create an established walkway, may settle for a simple, narrow asphalt sidewalk that lacks beauty and curb appeal. If you’re considering adding or renovating a front entry, it’s important to remember that the space leading up to and into your house is the gateway to your home and creates a critical first-impression for guest and other visitors. so how do you optimize your walkway and entry space to welcome people to your home or business?
HERE ARE SOME TIPS FOR CREATING A BEAUTIFUL AND WELCOMING FRONT ENTRY AND WALKWAY
Establish primary and secondary entry points. For some people, the front door is the primary way into a home; however, a large number of homeowners use a garage or side door as the preferred way to gain daily access. Determine which door will be sued for daily entry and which for intermittent visitors’ use. By establishing primary and secondary entries, you can budget accordingly to create functional, attractive entry spaces appropriate for their level of use.
Bigger is better. Instead, create a wide and deep landing, long and generous steps, and a walkway that enables two persons to walk side-by-side especially important if you have elderly or handicapped family or friends whom may need assistance getting into your home.
Create a “super stoop”. This is a spacious landing that provides room to set packages down and can accommodate a chair or small bench, even a boot scrape to clean shoes before entering.
Get Creative. There are lots of interesting materials for landings and walkways, including brick, pavers, flagstone and more. Consider unique combinations of color, shape and texture. Add dramatic elements to accent entries, such as interesting plantings, edging, even sculpture and other man made objects. Use landscaping to draw the eye into the entry and create a warm and inviting environment that adds tremendous curb appeal and says “welcome to my home.”