In all of our Wiseman-Hughes communities, all common areas and entryways are fully landscaped. We work especially hard at creating standout entryways, a new community’s “front door,” as it were.

“At the entryways, Wiseman-Hughes uses a lot of annuals and color to make it warm and inviting,” says Steve Brodt, president of Western DuPage Landscaping.

“The plant material is more mature and thicker than you see in most new developments. The elaborate monuments of brick or stone add extra impact to the entry, and add a sense of arrival to those who live there or are new to the community.”

The goal of this extra effort is to make the community look natural. “Landscape design, whether it’s an entire community or one home, doesn’t need to be extravagant,” Brodt said.

“Simplicity done well is the way to go." Some of this year’s garden trends include use of materials that are simple to maintain and provide a serene, peaceful environment. “Our lives are so hectic, we want to enjoy our green space as much as possible without a lot of work.”

Another trend is use of large sweeps of color to create harmony and inspire calm. "An all white garden is a good example,” says Brodt, “for elegance, they can't be beat.”

“Yellow is sunny and cheerful,” he said. “Shades of lavender and blue can give the impression of coolness even on the hottest days."

Container gardening is something that anyone can do and achieve instant satisfaction. The trend this year is to use a single color or variety of plants and fill containers with them.

Use different species for shade or sun – Brodt recommends Twinkle Pink Cuphea, Misty Lilac Wave Petunias and Lilac Chiffon Geranium for sunny locations, and something simple as White Impatiens to brighten shady areas.