Entries-Making a First Impression

I have searched for an original picture of the entry of the property prior to restoration, but found nothing.  The driveway was dirt/stones with no gates.

Our home sits back from the street and our neighborhood has irrigation laterals, which provide water at an affordable cost to deep water our large, mature trees.

As you drive in, you cross what I call the “moat”.  It is the main irrigation ditch that runs along the road.  If you look to the left and right once you pull onto the “bridge”, you see this~~a river.

This water source feeds into our private irrigation ditch, which parallels the main moat and our property line.

Twice a month in the summer and once a month in the winter,water is released into our private ditch.  After opening hatches, the water is then funneled throughout the 2+ acres providing many gallons of water to the orchard and mature trees.

Large, original stone pillars act as sentries at the entrance of the driveway.

The wrought iron fencing and gate was designed to replicate the architectural arches throughout the house. Since we live on a busy street, the fence and gate keep the dogs safely inside the property.

We used tumbled pavers on the entrance bridge and allowed space for 2 cars to pull in. Once you go through the gates, the driveway is a combination of paver edges and bands with 1/4 minus granite in between.  This stone/gravel look felt more historical and appropriate for a 1912 home.

The original entry and sidelights had security bars and gates on them, hiding the beautiful 4 foot wide door. The red paint works well for this time of year, but a think a new door color is in my future.

First impressions are lasting and a welcoming entry is the first step. What is unique about your entry?