As for us, we knew already we do not like to mow the lawn..so when we got our house, thankfully, the builder left the sideyard bare..so it was up to us what we want to do it with.
I already know our area is so arid, and I do not like a lawn..so we just hardscaped with pavers and do succulent container gardening. There are also city trees by our fence line that gives us shade and year round chore especially once dormant season comes around.
Not all areas are lucky to always have good rain access. It is the nth year of ongoing drought here..water is so precious. Our area..just so bone dry 6 to 7 months a year. This year it really started early already since last Jan zero rain...so..it all depends on ones growing environment and personal choices.
