Ideas for Sidewalks

Color

• Dressing up sidewalks with color is not as difficult as it might first seem. Using a concrete stain or paint can add an artistic touch to the front of your home. Options include to stain it a solid color that complements the exterior of your house, creating simple shapes and pictures for visual interest or designing a full-fledged mural for a bold artistic statement.

Plants

• Planting a row of flowers is an idea for sidewalks that will add color and texture. Consider root restrictions if planting tress alongside the sidewalk to prevent slow growth and other problems. Pruning and maintenance also play a factor when choosing what to plant. For example, fruit bushes may require additional pruning to avoid obstructing the view of walkers and drivers.

Rocks

• Rocks gardens are another option for landscaping sidewalks. For example, lay down a bed of river rocks with a fountain in the center for a peaceful setting. Bringing colorful decorative stones, such as lava rock, add a touch of boldness to the look. Using rocks as borders around flower beds or potted plants adds more textural interest.

Ornaments

• Using ornaments to dress up sidewalks offer a homeowner the chance to really express his personality. For example, line up a collection of garden gnomes that greet all the passersby in front of your home. Other options include decorative bird houses if you are an avid watcher or stone statues of garden fairies or other mythical creatures if you have a whimsical personality.

Lights

• Adding lighting around the sidewalks in front of your house not only adds curb appeal but ups the safety factor for walkers and motorists as well. Even a small row of garden lights can illuminate the path enough to prevent trips and falls. Choose a style that fits in well with the rest of your landscaping scheme. With options that include old-fashioned black light poles, solar lights to conserve energy or vintage-looking lanterns; you are sure to find one that fits your design tastes.