The front garden is the first part of a property people see. In Perth, an attractive front yard also has to deal with long dry summers, sandy or water-repellent soils, strong afternoon sun and, in some suburbs, coastal wind. A good design should look welcoming from the street while keeping water use and ongoing maintenance realistic.
Whether you’re improving an established property in Melville, planning a coastal garden in Cottesloe or Scarborough, or finishing the landscaping around a newer home in Ellenbrook or Perth’s northern suburbs, this guide explains practical choices for paving, planting, lawns, garden beds and waterwise front-yard design. Explore our Perth landscaping services if you are planning a broader renovation.
1. Begin with the street view and how you use the space
Stand at the street and look at the home as a whole before selecting plants or pavers. Consider the front door, driveway, garage, existing trees and the lines of the building. An appealing garden often starts with a clear path to the entrance and balanced planting—not simply filling every available square metre.
- Keep the entry route easy to identify and comfortable to walk along.
- Allow clear access to bins, side gates, services, letterboxes and existing taps.
- Consider sightlines from the driveway when cars reverse or enter the street.
- Think about privacy without blocking windows, paths or traffic visibility.
- Choose materials and planting that complement the home’s architecture.
Older homes might benefit from preserving mature trees and adding tidy contemporary planting beneath them. Newer homes may benefit from defined garden beds and a small focal tree to soften large areas of concrete and paving.
2. Work with Perth’s climate instead of fighting it
Perth has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, usually dry summers and wetter, cooler winters. Front yards may be particularly exposed because they often have fewer established shade trees than backyards. West-facing walls, driveways and paved paths can add to reflected heat.
Coastal front yards
Gardens around Scarborough, Cottesloe and North Fremantle may be exposed to salt-laden wind and fast-draining sand. Choose plants proven to cope with the actual exposure, consider wind protection during establishment and avoid lightweight surface materials that are likely to blow onto driveways.
Established suburbs
In Melville, Bicton, Como, Nedlands and nearby areas, existing trees, shade and older irrigation can influence what is possible. Design around mature root systems and avoid raising soil levels or installing heavy edging against tree trunks.
Newer developments and open frontages
In areas such as Ellenbrook and newer northern suburbs, the front yard can be sunny and exposed, with relatively little plant cover. Soil preparation, mulch and appropriately spaced plants become important early decisions.
Water Corporation’s garden design guide for Perth and the South West is a useful reference for planning a climate-appropriate garden.
3. Choose a front-yard landscaping style
Contemporary and minimalist
A simple palette of one or two paving finishes, defined garden-bed edges and repeated plant varieties can complement modern Perth houses. Repetition creates a neat appearance, but leave sufficient space for plants to reach their mature dimensions.
Coastal garden
Combine a restrained paving palette with plants suited to wind, sun and sandy soils. Organic mulch and soft planting can help prevent the garden from feeling dominated by hard surfaces. Avoid assuming that every tropical-looking plant will cope with an exposed coastal position.
Native and waterwise garden
Layer a small number of suitable feature shrubs with low-growing groundcovers and grasses, while keeping a clear pedestrian path. Planting density and irrigation should be matched to the species and site. Some native plants prefer very free-draining conditions while others need more moisture during establishment.
Established cottage-style garden
Existing mature planting can give a house character. Rejuvenate overgrown beds, choose complementary flowering shrubs and use pruning, mulch and well-defined edges to achieve a tidy look without removing everything.
4. Create an attractive pathway to the front door
The front path needs to feel safe, practical and visually connected to the entrance. Its width should suit the expected pedestrian use, with attention to changes in level, drainage, surface slip characteristics and lighting.
Brick and concrete pavers
Brick and concrete paving can create a durable, structured entry path when the product, base, edge restraints and installation method suit the site. Running-bond and other consistent patterns often work well with established and contemporary homes alike.
Stepping stones
Stepping stones can create a softer pathway through garden beds or gravel. Ensure the spacing is comfortable and consider whether the route will be used by visitors, children or anyone with reduced mobility. The main everyday entrance should remain practical and safe.
Natural stone
Natural stone can complement selected higher-end or coastal gardens, although finish, thickness, slip characteristics and installation method need careful consideration. Not all stones are suitable for every external application.
For a wider discussion of driveways, garden walkways and outdoor surfaces, see our Perth paving services.
5. Decide whether to keep a front lawn
A lawn can soften the view of a property, but mowing, edging, irrigation and periodic soil care need to be included in the maintenance plan. In a small or heavily shaded front garden, lawn is not automatically the most practical surface.
When natural lawn works well
Turf may suit a property with adequate sunlight, appropriate soil preparation, an efficient irrigation layout and enough open space for straightforward mowing. The choice of lawn variety should reflect shade, use and local conditions.
When a lawn-free design is better
A combination of groundcovers, mulched planting beds and a practical pedestrian route can reduce mowing and allow more space for drought-tolerant plants. However, lawn alternatives still need weed control, establishment care and periodic trimming.
Synthetic turf is another surface some homeowners consider, but it can become very hot in exposed sun and may not be appropriate in every setting. Surface heat, drainage, installation quality and local verge rules should be assessed before choosing it.
6. Improve sandy soil before installing plants
Many Perth sites have sandy soil with limited capacity to hold nutrients and moisture. Some soils become hydrophobic, meaning irrigation water can bead or run off instead of infiltrating the root zone.
If you are installing new garden beds, examine the existing soil and consider adding compost and appropriate soil amendments before planting. Clay-based amendments may be beneficial in very sandy soil, depending on the application. Improving the soil first is usually more useful than relying on extra water after the garden is finished.
For specific advice, see Water Corporation’s improving sandy soil guide.
7. Choose the right waterwise plants for the front yard
The best plants depend on mature size, sunlight, soil, wind, irrigation and the available space. Instead of choosing one plant for the whole of Perth, shortlist varieties that suit your suburb and the garden’s exposure.
- Feature plants: an appropriately sized tree or structural shrub to soften the house frontage.
- Screening: species that can provide privacy without becoming too large for the boundary.
- Mid-level plants: flowering shrubs and foliage varieties that provide interest throughout the year.
- Groundcovers: low planting to fill areas between taller shrubs and soften bed edges.
- Accent plants: carefully placed flowering natives or ornamental grasses rather than a different species in every spot.
Depending on location and growing conditions, selected kangaroo paws, grevilleas, westringias, scaevolas and other suitable Western Australian plants may be worth considering. Some species or cultivars are more appropriate than others for compact residential front gardens.
Use the Water Corporation Waterwise Plants Directory to filter plants for your suburb and garden conditions. Group plants with similar watering requirements so irrigation can be managed efficiently.
8. Use mulch and garden edging for a finished appearance
A carefully mulched front garden can immediately look more organised. Suitable coarse organic mulch helps protect soil from direct sun, reduce moisture loss and suppress weeds. Water Corporation commonly recommends around 50–100 mm of waterwise organic mulch, depending on material and site.
Remove weeds first, check irrigation and keep mulch away from plant stems and tree trunks. For a neat finish, choose edging that contains the mulch while allowing water to drain appropriately. Consider access to services and maintain suitable clearances near buildings.
Read our detailed guide to mulching Perth gardens for mulch types, garden-bed preparation and quantity calculations.
9. Plan irrigation and watering zones early
A front garden can include lawn, established trees, new shrubs and low-water planting. These areas may require different irrigation methods and watering schedules, so they should not automatically share one sprinkler zone.
Check existing pop-up sprinklers and drip lines for damage, overspray or poor coverage. Plan any new trenching before finishing paths and paving. Adjust irrigation for the season rather than leaving the same controller settings all year.
Perth residents need to follow applicable watering rosters. The winter sprinkler switch-off runs from 1 June through 31 August in relevant areas. Verify the current requirements on Water Corporation’s watering days page and read its garden water-use advice.
10. Don’t confuse your property boundary with the council verge
The area between the private property boundary and the road may be a public verge, even when it looks like part of the front lawn. Verge planting, paving, irrigation, sightlines and access are regulated differently from landscaping inside your private boundary.
Rules vary by local government. As an example, the City of Perth permits certain soft landscaping treatments while restricting other works and requiring approval for some changes. Requirements in the City of Stirling, City of Melville, City of Joondalup, City of Swan and other councils may differ.
Before replacing verge lawn with plants, artificial turf, edging or hardscaping, check your local council’s current policy. The City of Perth verge guidance illustrates why this step matters, but it is not a substitute for your own council’s rules.
11. Consider driveway edges, lighting and access
The driveway is often the largest visible hard surface in a Perth front yard. Planting can soften its appearance, but avoid species that block vehicle visibility, interfere with doors or lift nearby paving as they mature.
A small amount of thoughtfully positioned exterior lighting can help visitors find the front door and improve night-time usability. Outdoor electrical work may need to be performed by a licensed electrician, and lighting should avoid glare into neighbours’ windows or the road.
If any landscaping involves excavation, obtain available asset information through Before You Dig Australia and follow safe excavation procedures. Asset plans do not guarantee the exact location of underground services.
12. Front yard landscaping ideas by property size
Small front yards and courtyards
Use a clearly defined entrance path, a compact feature plant and restrained planting. Keep services accessible and avoid oversized hedges that will eventually crowd the doorway or footpath. One consistent paving material and a neat garden edge can make a compact frontage feel cohesive.
Medium suburban front gardens
Balance a modest lawn or low-growing planted area with a suitable feature tree, screening near windows if required, and garden beds that connect the house to the path and driveway. Consider maintenance from the street as well as from inside the property.
Larger and corner-block frontages
Create a deliberate layout with repeated planting groups rather than scattered isolated shrubs. Check visibility near corners and vehicle exits. Larger sites may justify more detailed grading, drainage and irrigation planning.
13. What affects the cost of a front yard makeover in Perth?
There is no meaningful single price for front yard landscaping without seeing the size and scope. Two front yards of the same area can differ greatly in preparation and access needs.
- Removal of existing lawn, paving, tree stumps or overgrown plants.
- Soil excavation, levelling, drainage and disposal requirements.
- Choice and quantities of pavers, concrete, decorative stone or edging.
- Plant maturity, species selection and planting density.
- Lawn area, turf variety and soil preparation.
- Irrigation repairs or a new system with separate garden zones.
- Access for bulk materials, equipment and removal of waste.
- Any required approvals, specialist work, walls, fencing or outdoor lighting.
When seeking a quote, include measurements, site photos, your desired finish and which existing elements should remain. This creates a clearer scope and helps avoid pricing based on vague assumptions.
14. A practical front yard landscaping sequence
- Photograph and measure the frontage, identifying boundaries and public verge areas.
- Decide on the desired layout, entrance path, planting areas and maintenance requirements.
- Check council rules, services, driveway sightlines and any relevant approvals.
- Assess drainage, soil condition, access and finished levels.
- Remove unwanted surfaces and vegetation, protecting anything to be retained.
- Complete necessary excavation, drainage, underground reticulation and hardscaping preparation.
- Install paths, edging and other approved hard surfaces.
- Improve soil, install plants and finish lawn areas where required.
- Test irrigation, spread mulch and clean the site.
- Establish an appropriate maintenance and watering schedule.
Frequently asked questions about front yard landscaping in Perth
What is the best low-maintenance front yard design in Perth?
Usually a simple arrangement of suitable waterwise plants, improved soil, mulch and a practical path is easier to maintain than a complicated design with many thirsty species. The right balance depends on the property and the homeowner’s needs.
Can I remove my front lawn and replace it with native plants?
Within your private property, this can often be a practical landscaping option, subject to applicable requirements. If the work affects a public verge, check the local council’s verge policy before proceeding.
Are native plants always drought tolerant?
No. Many local natives suit Perth conditions, but water needs vary substantially between species and especially during establishment. Select plants for the actual site rather than relying only on the native label.
How much mulch do I need for a 20 m² front garden bed?
At 75 mm finished depth, 20 m² × 0.075 m = 1.5 m³ of mulch before allowing for uneven surfaces, product settlement or wastage. Check the mulch manufacturer’s recommended depth.
Should paving go in before planting?
Major excavation and hardscaping generally come before final planting, but the sequence should be planned around retaining work, irrigation and existing plants. Avoid damaging new garden beds by moving heavy materials over them later.
Will a waterwise front garden still need irrigation?
Many new plants need establishment watering. Once established in improved soil, suitable waterwise planting can require less water than more thirsty choices, but irrigation requirements depend on weather, soil and plant selection. Applicable watering restrictions still need to be followed.
Can I change the street verge in front of my Perth house?
It depends on your local government and the type of change proposed. Contact your council before undertaking verge planting, hardscaping, edging or other works.
Professional front yard landscaping across Perth
Perth Gardening and Landscaping Professionals offers landscaping services for front and backyards, including paving, garden beds, planting, mulching, lawn areas and irrigation improvements. We can discuss your existing garden, the layout you’d like and any practical preparation required.
If you’re also planning a backyard project, our Perth backyard landscaping renovation guide explains the design and construction sequence in more detail. For ongoing upkeep once the work is complete, see our Perth gardening services or browse local gardening service areas.
Thinking about upgrading your front yard? Contact Perth Gardening and Landscaping Professionals for a free, no-obligation quote. Include your Perth suburb, photographs, approximate dimensions and a description of the changes you want.