The Australian culture has a way to go before it truly embraces the front porch. Whilst many of our overseas cousins go to great length to create an entirely usable room out of the porch, many an Australian porch is left bare with nothing but the odd pot plant for company.
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The Aussie front garden can often have a value in the 100’s of thousands of dollars. Yet they sit barren and underutilised. This has always frustrated me to no end.
A good way to get greater use of your front garden and porch (which you pay very good money for the privilege of having) is to create a viewing area (if you have a view) even if you don’t just watching the activity in your local street can be entertainment.
Make a place to sit, have a cuppa, read a mag, or watch the kids play. If the area is a little too exposed simply add a few bushy pot plants and strategically place them to create a more intimate place to sit.
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The best money I ever spent was adding a picket fence up the drive. I also completely enclosed the front garden in a low picket fence (still waiting to be painted I might add). This creates a safe place for the little ones to play with no chance of chasing balls into the street or driveway.
It’s also a way to create a space to capture the sun or shade at a different time of day to your backyard. It’s a great way to create a community feel.
Neighbours walking the dog will stop for a chat and even ask you in for a coffee if you’re lucky...which I am. Don’t underestimate the importance of creating a sense of community; this adds an element of safety that no alarm system can ever provide.
Even your pets will appreciate your porch setting!!
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