Cottage LANDSCAPE DESIGN & DIY Paved Walkway | XO, MaCenna

[@nw4090]

The first designer’s plan was just absolutely simply beautiful.

[@AS-owa]

Same here. First is my favorite ❤️

[@SethMyersm16]

Agreed

[@jilltibbetts3]

I LOVED the curve of the sidewalk

[@robinhoward4204]

Absolutely - it won me, and the curved walkway was a lovely light point of difference. I could totally see that the overall design would work with the walkway Macenna and Romeo have already done.

[@maryj5021]

POV of a 50+ year gardener and landscape designer: #1 is the best choice, especially for a novice gardener, wanting a dramatic impact Arbors, fountains, swings, etc can be added later, once the landscape has been lived in.

[@cyndiamontgomery6524]

Hi! As a gardener & designer, I really like the first garden design for you. Depending on your choice of plants, this could be much easier to manage than the others. I love the curve to the walkway, and I like limiting the number and varieties of plants. Highly recommend salvias and echinacea for drought tolerant perennials. Why not consult with a local garden designer for help? Online designs are great, but there’s nothing like going local when living things are concerned.

[@cyndiamontgomery6524]

I’m commenting as I’m watching so this might be addressed. If you opt to do it all yourself, use a garden hose as a guide for setting your beds. That way you can move it to set your curves, and to see what it will look like before you ever dig. It will save you a lot of work! Also, plan for the mature growth of your plants. If a shrub says 4’h x 4’2”w, make sure you allow for that. Plants can overlap a bit but so many homeowners get carried away and put in too many plants for the space allotted.

[@cyndiamontgomery6524]

I just heard you say you don’t want to do planting till spring. Please know that planting shrubs and trees works better in fall and winter to allow roots to become established before the stress of summer heat affects them. So there’s no reason to wait if you don’t have to.

[@sandrakicklighter2735]

@@cyndiamontgomery6524 Second this!.

[@caitlinocallaghan4349]

@@cyndiamontgomery6524 such a good point about planting in winter! I hope Macenna sees this

[@veritorossi]

Exactly!!! She should read this advice because it's gold!

[@kathleenrowland8666]

Love the first landscaping plan. It's simple, clean, easy to maintain, and beautiful esthetically.

[@mallorieshaw1231]

Now that you've went with the straight pathway, I think you should go with landscape design #2! The curved beds with the straight pathway is such a stunning contrast 😍

[@landessence2383]

*THANK YOU* for featuring me in your video Macenna! And THANK YOU all for the wonderful comments. I am very excited!

[@msmaddox2918]

I love #2. Also, just a tip - try to avoid using landscape fabric for the flowerbeds since it doesn't allow organic matter to get down into the soil. I've made this mistake before and it's a pain to remove the landscape fabric after you have planted plants. Instead use newspaper or cardboard (remove the tape) as a weed suppressant. Building good soil will help you grow a beautiful garden!

[@tdamron4185]

I absolutely agree! I used cardboard and it was great, although the birdys drop planted ontop LOL I have wandering Thomas, which "wandered" over as well. I couldn't have imagined using that nasty weed barrier, as I've removed it for family & friends before and am WELL aware of the nightmare 😱

[@amaiaamaiaa]

SAME. i've removed landscape fabric from large flower beds. the way that all my perennials FLOURISHED in the next two years was incredible.

[@evanorvell8368]

Being a Texas Master gardener in zone 8 I would go immediately to the first design. It is beautiful, includes a smaller number of varieties of plants that will survive in your zone with little maintenance, and is esthetically pleasing, matching the cottage feel very well. The curved path adds so much character, as well.

[@cyndiamontgomery6524]

Master Gardener here too. Agree with everything you said.

[@FolkFaninMA]

I’m not a master gardener, but I also agree with you. There’s just something very charming about that first design. The third design was far to busy especially for a cottage feel.

[@CheriJ11]

Just a viewer with an opinion here. I liked the first plan the best.

[@Weissmjm1]

Do you have any idea of what plants were included in the first design?

[@Panni216]

As a landsape architect, options 1 and 2 seem pretty easy to combine even, they have a lot in common. I would definitely get advice from someone in your area though on soil type and local flora, just to make sure the plants you choose are really going to thrive there. Some things to think about when the goal is easy maintenance (the literal no1 for basically every customer): -grass is very high maintenance, maybe could be changed to a meadow in the less representative areas? Need way less mowing+good for pollinators -when choosing bushes and trees, shading is something to consider. What will they shade and when? Evergreens shade year round while deciduous trees do not. -for colour you can considerperennials and bulbs, there´s so many options with blooming times from early spring to late autumn. Planted in defined beds they´re super easy to care for and provide lots of colour and texture for a more cottage garden vibe. Hope this is some useful information for future garden planning adventures :)

[@lynnjohnson1413]

MY WORDS, very well said. 👍🌲

[@Edu_Kate]

I'm worried about their side yard that gets bamboo shoots sent up regularly. I think MaCenna even pulled one near the base of the decking where she placed pavers. Those things are relentless.

[@amara560]

Definitely 100% agreed on looking at grass alternatives, and some great info

[@donnaking102]

I love that the 2nd yard designer seems more maintenance friendly. The walkway looks so good.

[@supernatural5354]

I like fusion between the 1st and the 2nd one. I love that the 2nd one had the flowers going up the side of the house. Since your house is a stark white the flowers would add a nice softness to it and make it look more whimsical and storybook.

[@annaclark3748]

2

[@joramjasmine]

I was going to say that 😅

[@carolynlane741]

I love all the designs, but Marjana’s design is INCREDIBLE!! I love the contrast of the straight path and the rounded flower bed - it really softens the outside of the house and makes it so welcoming. Plus the path of stones leading to the side of the house looks like a fairytale

[@carolynspotts4972]

I LIKE 1

[@elleturnip]

That first render is so perfect!!! Literally so simply and natural it feels like that’s just how things grew, and love the curved walk way

[@LindaKayHolevas]

I really liked the first designer’s rendering. It was simple, yet elegant. I personally would want the cottage to be the focal point vs the yard. The first design really complemented the house & let it shine. Every week I watch you & every week I am blown away at your talent. I am honestly convinced that there is NOTHING you cannot do! xo

[@mariahw653]

The first one is ALL THE COTTAGE VIBES. Literally obsessed

[@kaylamson5161]

The first designer. Love the natural softness. Also looks the least maintenance! God bless, John 3:16🙏

[@elizabethadams8436]

The landscaping sand will wash out when it rains. You should look into using polymeric sand to actually fill the gaps like you would tile. It hardens and will stay put. It acts like glue. My husband and I used this exact same method for our walkway. :)

[@Edu_Kate]

I wish it had been available when I installed a paver patio nearly 20 years ago. I wouldn't say the sand washed away as much as ants have displaced it. I get lots and lots of weeds. I'm definitely looking into that black solid surface they used when I install a flagstone path in my back yard someday.

[@mandymoe6493]

Alternatively you can add more sand in a few years. This way it's not a sealed area. There could be restrictions on sealed areas vs ones where rain water can go through.

[@Bobbie-G]

Yes! That's what my husband has always used, and it is amazing!

[@eljaykayaye1186]

@@mandymoe6493 hope people pay attention to this. You can put pavers in sand no restrictions because It's natural drainage. Once sealed or cemented concerns of drainage, uncertain if area restrictions.

[@careybuchanan]

I love the first design 1000 percent - so elegant and the traditional railings for the porch are so in keeping with the style of the house

[@ambrialee714]

Number 1! It feels organic like those plants just grew around your house in a beautiful array. Rock is hard to maintenance when leaves drop or rainfall causes debris. But the little cobblestone path that goes around the house on option two really lends to the cottage feel so maybe you could add that?

[@debrabostwick2250]

The first landscape rendering is my favorite. It has a cottage aesthetic along with a calming simplicity. The graceful curves with soft, rounded beds, and walkway, are a nice contrast to the more linear lines of the cottage and fencing. Stunning!

[@christinasevaistre7265]

Definitely the second designer. It's a design you can add to over time and allows you time to "get to know" your garden

[@mariacorral99]

Hey MaCenna, for the landscaping, have you thought about ground covering plants (roman camomile, clover, moss, creeping jenny, creeping thyme) to replace the typical grass lawn? They look like grass from afar, cover all the lawn, look really whimsical, don't require lawn mowing, and many have environmental properties. Just for you to know if you are interested. Great video as always. The paveway looks amazing :)

[@ferntella]

THE SECOND ONE! It's whimsical but simple. And super attainable. The wisteria-esque plant is to die for too, so beautiful and romantice

[@melissamags8218]

I completely agree!

[@lunarfaerie8552]

Just watching the first part where you’ve asked which garden design we prefer-definitely number 1. Very soft and has a perfect flow to it. You could also add to it in the coming years.

[@She.Follows.The.Sun.]

I love how the first one feels airy, whimsical, and light. Especially with the walk way being curved some, BUT I think it needs the organic paver stone walkway to the side of the house like in 2! Especially for your family, friends, and other guests you may want to invite for a gathering or whatever where going into the front door isn't necessary. Also, imagine if you got married in your own backyard.

[@karinal.underwood8859]

Love the 1rst one but add the pergola swing ❤️

[@KiingDIVAA]

Omg the first design/designer you showed was PERFECTION… Simple to do but not simple looking… busy enough to capture attention but not distract from the beauty of the home… I’m in love with that one! Lol! The others were good too so either way I’m gonna enjoy the transition 🎉😍

[@missmichelle652]

I think I would pick #2. I like that the garden beds are separated from the grass

[@gurkov4e]

I just paused LoneFox for this!

[@1widener]

Oops … 😁

[@sevenwatson5854]

Poor Drew!

[@RosiWrites]

Me too 😂

[@danielc9430]

lol. just finished his vid

[@feelslikeforeve]

Same here.. 🙊

[@SM-ie8gn]

Without a doubt, the first designer shows a mature design and an understanding of landscaping. Often people fail to consider overcrowding as plants mature. This designer accommodated mature plantings.

[@jolenefetterolf4771]

The second design is absolutely darling. The layout has texture, whimsy and it draws your eyes upward and all around. The vertical structure of the evergreens where the pillars are….perfection.

[@nancyh1990]

The 2nd design is my favorite. The curves of the garden bed in contrast of the straight walkway fits well together. Those stepping stones that curve around the garden bed is a nice touch.

[@jeanniechancellor807]

Being an David gardener and taking into consideration your busy schedule, I would go with the first. It’s easy, simple but beautiful and has plants that thrive with minimal care. You can always add more plants later as you become more experienced and I love the cottage look this has with minimal effort!

[@jeanniechancellor807]

Avid not David.

[@Edu_Kate]

And annuals help switch things up each season. But good bones are in that first design.

[@kathykov1]

@@jeanniechancellor807 we knew what you meant.

[@basquiatt]

A combination of the first and second design would be so pretty. I really love the simplicity of the first one and the curved flower beds of the second.

[@hausnouveau]

Landscape design #2 gives me strong cottage vibes!! The stepping stones to the backyard are so whimsical!

[@rab0604]

Personally I love the 2nd design so much! The straight pathway highlights your gorgeous entry to me, it lets the eyes focus on the front door and porch ahead; then the rounded beds add an organic touch of softness! I think it looks stunning so far and excited to see it blooming with greenery! Also the camera quality and lighting in this video was amazing! ❤

[@valarya]

As much as the curved walkway in the design was whimsical and beautiful, I think breaking up the lines with the curved and stone-lined garden beds via landscaping will be even MORE beautiful in the end. Well done!!!

[@joannejenkins7379]

I liked the first landscape design, it’s beautiful, simple and looks like an easier maintenance upkeep. Your walkway is gorgeous and your design pattern so lovely. Again you and Romeo are a great team, this is awesome.

[@Weissmjm1]

Love the first design. Is that what you ended up going with? Do you know what plants were included in that design?

[@rebekahhager160]

I LOVE the first designer, but I would add the lights from the second and swing from the third.

[@anaverran3040]

I love elements of both plans 1 and 2. They truly give a cottage vibe. I have a hard time visualizing how #3 would look because the rendering was flat, but I can see the designer put a tremendous amount of work into the plant selection.

[@emilyotoole98]

Clover lawn!! Much less upkeep than grass. Also for landscaping + mixing into the lawn to avoid monoculture - you should look into regenerative grasses! Texas has so many native to it (Little bluestem, Indiangrass, Eastern gamagrass, Switchgrass, Sideoats grama, Big bluestem). Also some native forb options are a Maximillian sunflower, Engelmann daisy, Illinois bundleflower, and Bush sunflower. Great for pollinators, tolerant to the weather, and the native grasses are carbon sinks - more so than trees! My mom has lived in Texas all her life and grassland restoration is her new passion haha. Love what you've done with the house - sending well wishes from Austin!

[@caitloucole22]

1st front yard WOW!! Stunning. So cozy and welcoming!! Also the colors both compliment your home colors and is still neutral enough for any holiday. That’s a chameleon team anyone could dream of!!!

[@LillithC]

#2 - those stepping stones really give it the cottage garden feel. Putting in a swing with some type of vining plant would also be beautiful from the 3rd design. I think you can totally pull inspiration from all 3!

[@Blackthumbcrochet]

So many people are saying 1 and I’m like where are my peeps that love #2, I think it’s perfect!!!

[@LindaFoyle]

I love the stone walkway around to the back, great idea for rainy days… but I also love all the flowers in the first one, it would be great to combine both idea’s together.

[@allyssasexton6310]

Also, I would use jointing sand instead of regular sand to fill in the cracks. It really locks the pavers together. Quikrete powerloc is a good one. You spread the sand in the cracks and then wet it. It acts just like mortar mix but for pavers. Plus you can get it in different colors, I think it's another way to add visual interest. Love the walkway, so beautiful 😍 can't wait to see your next project.

[@lisatutler-jones5992]

I was looking for this comment. I’m also planning a walkway project. I had to redo because I used the wrong sand.

[@aevan8tor]

You absolutely need Polymeric joining sand for pavers or they move.

[@kaimoss]

I love option 2, specifically the straight, herringbone pathway, and the curved stepping stones around the plants in front of the house. There's cottagey character and interest in those details, without it being too busy, and the plants could be low maintenance depending on the local options you choose. Both option 1 and 2 are beautiful and could work really well

[@sarahheri7027]

i think considering maintenance, and the pretty walkway i would pick the first design, it's just EXTRA pretty, and very neat

[@SeaTurtle515]

I like how the straight pathway looks. You can add curves and visual interest with curved beds and beautiful pottery. As a bit of a gardening expert, I think the first choice of plants and design would fit your cottage and climate zone the best. Everything looking absolutely stunning. You guys amaze me!

[@KatiesLifeAdventure]

MaCenna the pathway turned out fantastic. Maybe you could take the leftovers and add them to the side door so you can have two mud free entrances!

[@CRAFTGENICS.03]

The one is everything..it has soo much character...it's giving me more old Engish village....it's giving me cozy vibes...

[@asianangie7209]

10yrs ago, we used those light black underpayment in a section of the patio and it still looks nice. The parts of it where it doesn’t, I’m sure was the sand not being tamped correctly. We used polymer sand to sweep between the pavers. As usual your project looks great as always. I vote for design #1 but with the straight walkway. I like the front being somewhat cleaner, and perhaps the backyard more cottage like and full.

[@melanieevansmartin5232]

Number1 would be the most easy to maintain. It’s also beautiful and flows together with your cottage.

[@diannerodriguez1387]

Never in my life have I had the energy or desire to do all that you do. Maybe in my next life. You two are absolutely amazing.

[@beeharr6847]

They are all incredible, but really love the curved walkway. Could you not take something you love from each design. You always make the best decisions so can’t wait to see the results.

[@GodsChosenOne1986]

I would definitely go with the first designer's plan! I see those pics and feel like I could call that home and not just a house 🥰🥰

[@jus10dums]

I am just proud of MaCenna for doing everything. Just so proud.

[@sherryhudson9075]

I love #1. It’s a simple repetition of just a few of the same plants. I’m a gardener and the salvia and hydrangeas are easy and dependable. Hydrangeas need plenty of water, but if you have an irrigation system it won’t be a problem

[@nataliekeane8944]

Number one is stunning. The curved path encourages you to wander along the pathway and enjoy the front yard, it isn't as obvious!! It creates a lot more interest! The designers planting is more simple but incredibly effective. So may people concentrate in the inside of the house but the outside is what sets the tone and can create a beautiful piece of artwork for the street!! So important.

[@sholle7]

I love the first design gives the complete feel you are going for

[@Ana-mq4fe]

I love the 2nd option for your yard design. It looks like it suits you and your personality. It has cottage guides and gives you room to play with more options

[@dorothybrundage77]

I loved the second design so much! The curved beds were so whimsical !

[@953orion]

Plan #1 seems more McCenna cottage vibes to me, but with a climbing rose thrown in somewhere, obvi. Its just very mature, old world, cottage feel.

[@cowgirl_jems]

I love the first design, it will be the easiest to maintain for you but use the garden bed boarders of the second design with mulch laid down underneath your plants to keep the grass and weeds at bay. Then they is clean and clear lines between the grass and garden areas easier to cut grass, spray weeds ect

[@charlottefletcher]

Sedum are a great plant choice for your needs: deer resistant, drought tolerant, very low maintenance and most importantly beautiful. The variety 'Tall Autumn Joy' closely resemble the hydrangeas in your inspiration pictures but without the high water needs. There are so many varieties that you are bound to find one you love. Sedum are zone 3 to 10 part to full sun so they will work great in your front yard.

[@MallouMakeup]

Yes, sedum would be amazing! I love the lemonjade variety.

[@eljaykayaye1186]

Little maintenance but a trim and gives and gives .👍

[@SteffanieAlanna]

# 1 is the BEST!!! Hands down😅

[@thequeenn00b]

I love the curved walkway but I also love the stepping stones in the second design!

[@brittanynichols4791]

I like the second design the best. There is more of a variation in height and color, yet it would still be more manageable to maintain. I like the look of the curved garden beds in contrast to the walkway, and the other straight lines going on. All three designers did a wonderful job! I am always blown away by how creative and unique people are.

[@hebahamza9916]

I love no.1.. So simple and elegant.

[@camillecipri593]

I love the first landscaping design! Like, immediately loved it. 😍 But I also like the idea of the curved plant beds and the lighting in the second render. I don’t have enough imagination to “see” the 3rd one haha.

[@billy9129]

Nr. 2!! With the curved walkway...the 2nd design just has the right amount of personality and doesn't seem generic or over the top. I love the little touches of string lights and those cute lights in the garden! 🥀

[@roundbumbles]

First designer for sure. So simple yet beautiful, perfect for the cottage! Second design would be the runner-up.

[@TheClumsybum]

#1 was my favourite design because, while simple, it was stunning on its own but I can see it grow and develop into a more personalized design as you have the freedom to add as you go each season in the future.

[@laurennsspencer]

I’m so glad you went with the straight path and curved beds, I think that made the most sense for your space. I love the second design with the stone path that curves around to the back would be so lovely and magical

[@vintagerose2]

Best sponsor yet! Love all the ideas! I’d keep it simple at first, so I’d go with #1, but maybe squeeze in a pergola somewhere. I also liked the curved walkway. Their renditions are really cool! You could borrow from each one.

[@hn8276]

That brick laying sequence edit was epic!

[@katiecashwell6708]

I love the height of the plants in the first render! The second render was nice but seemed a little too short. Also the curved walkway is stunning!

[@KaylaJoySmith]

This project reminds me so much of watching my dad make the walkways for my grandma’s old house 20+ years ago. After she passed away and they sold the house, I’ve driven by a couple times since then and the paved walkways are still there. It’s so cool watching the process in real time while you work on renovating your new home, knowing that likely long after you are gone in future generations, someone else is going to enjoy your touch. You have created a permanent impact in that neighborhood, in that home with every small project you complete. ❤

[@sophial3151]

I think the first design fits you best. It will be low maintenance but also compliments the house most.

[@ronja4774]

LOOOOVE the first landscaping plan. The second is also beautiful but the first has a natural simplicity in it which is gorgeous.

[@katiekildahl1666]

I love the second one with that stone walkway to the side yard. You could have that path go through a vine covered arbor that acts as separation from the front to side yard. No matter which design you choose, it will look great!

[@amanacristinasuello5293]

#1!!! I love how the cottage as a modern touch to it as well as how it was presented as simple yet classy. Like it will last for years and you won’t get tired of looking at it😊 But you can combine the parts you love on both 1 & 2 and put your your signature as well😊

[@lp7931]

I love #2 landscape plan! Love the extra stone pathway and the rock beds.

[@hana_lilly8405]

The first one is my favorite. Loved the curved walkway and the plants he chose.

[@lo4359]

I love marjanas design, but with the curved walkway from the first designer ❤ looks like your style and i think is low maintenance to. This was a great episode! Like always!

[@ashleeloomer8539]

Option 1 all the way! You can always add/combine ideas from each of the designs to make it more your style. The curved walkway in option 1 was brilliant and hydrangeas are a pretty hearty plant and common in the south. Paired with other plants that bring out your individual style, some hanging plants and porch lights 🤩👌🏼chef’s kiss!

[@alyssashannon1218]

Its inspiring seeing someone take on a project ~ I get really overwhelmed & anxious so it's cool to see this. Someone trying their best & learning

[@srhm3868]

I love the curved beds idea it really catches your eye and adds an element softness to the landscape… can’t wait to see this project continue! Plus that walkway oh my 😍

[@cassyi181]

The plans are ALL so beautiful. But I love the first one. So simple yet so elegant and looks easy to maintain.

[@foodandfoilsm8176]

I love the first and second one!! Love the little steps that that second one has around the flower bed! And I like how the first ones plants don’t hide the house and the curved walkway!

[@bloodrose5880]

The 1st design is so elegant, natural and compliments the cottage completely , it doesn’t take your eye away from the house, it draws your eye to the masterpiece, which is the cottage , It fits completely . I do love the cobblestone stepping stones to the side of the house in design 2 so maybe incorporate your favourite things from each design and make your own plan ❤

[@lisagermino6126]

#2!!!! I think the design of the curved beds, stepping stones and other touches really make it look like a cottage.

[@laurelbates2992]

I love this, you can pick the parts from all three that you like and mix them. Great idea curved walkway, rose arbor, winter interest with orbs,cones etc.

[@kylieweitz]

Next up is steps from the pavers up onto the patio because Mama Cathy has requested it forever! 😄

[@constantineangelgutierrez1851]

As a horticulturist, landscape designer myself I like the 3 examples. We like to do it the old fashioned way by visiting the property in person to get a feel of the community and neighborhood. Anyways fabulous Yas are doing the outdoors videos.

[@Yvonne-kk6cd]

All of the designers lent creative ideas to your yard. I like simplicity and minimal upkeep, therefore I choose #1.

[@tammygann8722]

The first designer's plan was something I believe you could maintain and it still be stunning.

[@lollycardoza9114]

Every brick layer I've ever watched used a level so as not to have to re-do areas that shift. It's so commendable that you didn't use a level but you may save yourself some work for the next one. This looks amazing, I like that straight look which mirrors your house. The 2nd landscape rendering was my favorite.

[@HAppytobeHer]

You are incredible lady!!!! There’s nothing you can’t accomplish. Make sure to budget for landscaping because it can add up fast and you will definitely need more than 30 plants for the kind of effects you’re looking for

[@gayleconlon7834]

Omg yes the first rendering.I love the stone steps and it shows all the detail on your porch.The flowers are so lush...I love it !!

[@hellogorgeous101]

The first guy! Curve the path and that simple but stunning herbaceous border!

[@carolkokx9638]

The first design they're all beautiful but especially the first one