Arrival Courts: Welcoming Entrances That Reflect Your Home’s Style
An arrival court is your landscape’s first impression. It’s the point where design, function, and curb appeal meet. At McHale Landscape Design, we specialize in creating custom arrival courts that enhance the experience of coming home.
You are proud of your home.
In addition to conveying a grand sense of welcome, imagine the pride you would feel while greeting guests with the elegance of intricate stonework or the majesty of a breathtaking water feature.
Arrival courts and entry courtyards have become increasingly popular with owners of larger homes. A re-imagining, of sorts, of classic architecture, they can elicit feelings of grace, astonishment, peace, comfort, or anticipation, and can be complemented with any number of fixtures, from fountains to fireplaces, and more.
First impressions matter
Your arrival court’s design will provide new guests and future friends with an initial snapshot of your home for years to come. Think of it as the red carpet event for the movie that is your life. At McHale, our team will work closely with you to plan and construct your dream entryway.
McHale Landscape Design specializes in many different types of arrival courts, including:
- Flagstone
- Brick
- Travertine
- Natural Stone
- Limestone
Whether you live in Annapolis, Easton, Clarksburg, or McLean, or anywhere throughout the DMV, our team will design a beautiful and functional space that reflects your home’s architecture. These front-entry landscapes provide visual structure, define circulation, and add lasting value.
Design That Guides, Materials That Last
We approach arrival court design with equal parts creativity and technical skill. Every detail, including circulation, drainage, lighting, and symmetry, is considered with care. The goal is to create a smooth, safe experience for both cars and pedestrians.
We use premium hardscape materials, including natural stone, brick, and pavers, chosen to suit each site and home. In Annapolis and McLean, cobblestone bands and apron details often add traditional charm. In Easton and Clarksburg, gravel and permeable pavers support drainage while maintaining a coastal or rural feel.
Plantings bring softness and seasonal interest. Our designers layer trees, hedges, and perennials to guide the eye and define edges. The result is a front court that feels both structured and inviting.
Stonework and Hardscaping That Set the Tone
An arrival court should match the quality of the home it leads to. Our masonry team installs stonework and brickwork with precision. We create retaining walls, edging, and walkways that unify the entrance with the larger landscape.
Many of our projects include patios or walkways nearby. Using matching or complementary hardscape materials, we ensure the arrival court fits seamlessly into the property. Clients often pair these spaces with lighting, signage, or custom gates for extra visual impact.
Because we’re a full-service design-build firm, our team manages the entire process, from layout and permits to planting and final grading. You get a streamlined experience and a result built to last.
Performance Built Into Every Detail
Arrival courts need to look good, but they also need to perform. That’s why we focus on solid construction practices. We address drainage, traffic flow, and long-term maintenance from the start.
In places like McLean or Clarksburg, where heavy seasonal use is common, we use materials and methods that can stand up to freeze-thaw cycles and frequent use. Our clients count on us for both aesthetic appeal and reliable function.
We also offer seasonal maintenance. Our crews clean surfaces, inspect joints, refresh edging, and care for surrounding plantings. A well-maintained arrival court keeps your landscape looking its best year-round.
Let’s Build a Lasting First Impression
Your arrival court introduces your home before a guest reaches the front door. At McHale Landscape Design, we create outdoor entrances that are refined, welcoming, and made to endure.
We proudly serve homeowners from our offices in Annapolis, Easton, Clarksburg, Upper Marlboro, and McLean. Let us help you design an arrival space that feels as special as the rest of your home.
