Drive through nice neighborhoods and really look at the arrangements you see. What about certain types of gardens like a rose garden. Look through garden design books and mark the ones that you'd like to have. Something else to keep in mind is the style of your home. A very formal home usually calls for formal-looking gardens, but done correctly, a carefree type of landscaping can lend an air of casual elegance to the surroundings.
Cottage homes do well with lots of colorful annuals and perennials.
The style of landscaping must complement rather than compete with your home's style. Next, decide if you are willing to do the work yourself or would rather hire it out. It is possible to create a low maintenance landscape, but there will always be weeds to pull, trimming, pruning, watering and mulching. Go to the library and check out books on plants, trees and shrubs. Find out the light requirements, how large the shrubs and plants will grow, and if it is hardy in your area.