Their vibrant colour and soft architectural form add a great focal point to the overall look of a garden. In many examples of my work, I always try to incorporate a Japanese Maple in the planting plan.
Most often when planning the gardens for the front yard of a home, the Japanese Maple is a must for me... it serves as a "sign post" to draw a visitor's attention to the front entrance of the home. The garden tells a story for your guests... it should always lead a visitor to the front door of the home. The bright colours of the Japanese Maple will attract a person's eye and if carefully placed, it will allow the visitor to instantly find the front door of the home!
My rule of thumb is to place it slightly off to one side of the front door... never directly in the main sight-line of the door...