Exterior Design: 40 Stunning Ideas for Every Home Style
Color Schemes
When selecting paint colors for your home’s exterior, consider your home’s architectural style and the surrounding landscape. For a classic look, opt for neutral shades like white, beige, or gray. To add a touch of personality, incorporate accent colors through your front door, window trim, or shutters.
Landscaping Options
Landscaping plays a vital role in enhancing your home’s curb appeal. Choose plants that complement the architectural style of your home and the climate in your area. For a modern look, incorporate geometric shapes and clean lines into your landscaping design. For a more traditional look, opt for lush lawns, flower beds, and mature trees.
Curb Appeal
The key to creating a welcoming and inviting front porch is to make it comfortable and stylish. Add a seating area with cozy chairs and a coffee table. Place potted plants or flowers around the perimeter to add a touch of color and life.
Home Style
Modern Farmhouse
Modern farmhouse exteriors are characterized by their clean lines, simple shapes, and use of natural materials such as wood and stone. To achieve this look, opt for a neutral paint color, such as white or gray, and add black or dark brown accents.
Craftsman Bungalow
Craftsman bungalows are known for their charming architectural details, such as exposed beams, overhanging eaves, and decorative trim. To enhance the curb appeal of a Craftsman bungalow, consider painting the exterior in a warm color, such as yellow or green, and adding a welcoming front porch with a swing or rocking chairs.
Victorian Home
Victorian homes are known for their ornate architectural details and vibrant paint colors. To maintain the historical integrity of a Victorian home, stick to traditional paint colors, such as white, cream, or pastel shades. Add architectural details such as gingerbread trim, bay windows, and decorative moldings.
1920s Architecture
Homes built in the 1920s often feature a mix of architectural styles, such as Tudor Revival, Gothic Revival, and Art Deco. To update the exterior of a 1920s home, consider painting it in a modern color, such as black or navy, and adding contemporary landscaping elements.
Tudor Revival
Tudor Revival homes are characterized by their steeply pitched roofs, half-timbered exteriors, and leaded glass windows. To enhance the curb appeal of a Tudor Revival home, opt for a dark paint color, such as brown or green, and add architectural details such as stone accents and decorative chimneys.
Gothic Revival
Gothic Revival homes are known for their pointed arches, steeply pitched roofs, and intricate stonework. To maintain the historical integrity of a Gothic Revival home, choose a dark paint color, such as black or gray, and add architectural details such as gargoyles and stained glass windows.
Voysey Style
Voysey style homes are characterized by their organic lines, tonal palettes, and use of natural materials. To achieve this look, opt for a neutral paint color, such as beige or gray, and add architectural details such as exposed beams and decorative windows.
A-frame
A-frame homes are known for their triangular shape and exposed beams. To update the exterior of an A-frame home, consider painting it in a modern color, such as black or white, and adding contemporary landscaping elements.
Maintenance and Materials
Exterior Door Buying Guide
When choosing an exterior door, consider factors such as durability, energy efficiency, and style. For a durable and energy-efficient option, opt for a steel or fiberglass door. For a stylish option, consider a wood door with decorative accents.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Paint Color for Your House
- Consider your home’s architectural style and the surrounding landscape.
- Test paint colors on a small area before committing to a full paint job.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and finishes.
- Use a primer to ensure that the paint adheres properly to the surface.
- Apply two coats of paint for a durable and long-lasting finish.
Creative Landscaping Ideas for Small Spaces
- Use vertical space by planting vines or hanging plants.
- Create a focal point with a small water feature or sculpture.
- Add pops of color with brightly colored flowers or foliage.
- Use mirrors to create the illusion of more space.
- Choose plants that are well-suited to your climate and soil conditions.
How to Create a Welcoming and Inviting Front Porch
- Add a seating area with comfortable chairs and a coffee table.
- Place potted plants or flowers around the perimeter to add a touch of color and life.
- Hang a wind chime or play soothing music to create a relaxing atmosphere.
- Install outdoor lighting to make your porch inviting at night.
- Keep your porch clean and free of clutter.
The Best Materials for Exterior Renovations
- Fiber cement siding: Durable, low-maintenance, and available in a variety of styles.
- Vinyl siding: Affordable, easy to install, and available in a wide range of colors and textures.
- Brick veneer: Classic and durable, but can be expensive to install.
- Stone veneer: Natural and durable, but can be even more expensive than brick veneer.
- Stucco: Durable, fire-resistant, and available in a variety of textures.
