When it comes to houses, we all judge the book by its cover. We make associations without much thought when passing by homes in our neighborhood or on our morning commute. Some look warm and inviting. Some look neglected and unapproachable. Some appear tidy but boring and drab. Curb appeal makes an impression, for better or worse. If you want yours to be better, we have some tips.
Assessing Your Home’s Current Exterior
Before embarking on any improvement projects, objectively evaluate your home’s current state. This helps identify what needs immediate attention and what can be improved over time.
Take a walk around your property and look at it with fresh eyes. Note any areas that appear worn, outdated, or in need of repair. Common issues include peeling paint, overgrown landscaping, or obsolete fixtures.
Note elements that could enhance your home’s appearance. This might include adding architectural details, updating the color scheme, or improving the landscaping. Look for inspiration in your neighborhood or home design magazines to identify styles that complement your home’s architecture.
Enhancing Your Home’s Entry for the Purpose of Curb Appeal
The entry is the focal point of your home’s exterior and often the first thing visitors notice. For blank-box homes, focus on the front entrance as a starting point. “Especially if you have a limited budget, the right package of trim elements can pay off with a lot of curb appeal. It’s an easy way to escape the cookie-cutter look,” says Steve Roth, marketing director of Style-Mark, a millwork company based in Archbold, Ohio.
Upgrading Your Front Door
A new front door can really refresh your home’s appearance. Replace an old door with a more stylish option or simply repaint it with a rich, welcoming color. Adding decorative glass inserts or new hardware can also refresh the look of an existing door. A vibrant door color adds visual interest and sets the tone for the rest of the house.
Creating an Inviting Porch or Entryway
If you have a porch, make sure it’s clean, well-maintained, and inviting. Add comfortable seating, potted plants, or decorative elements for a welcoming atmosphere. Consider adding an awning or small overhang for homes without a porch to define the entryway. Personal touches such as a stylish doormat or seasonal decorations can also add charm.
Landscaping Around the Entry
Planting colorful flowers and shrubs near the entrance makes your home look nicer and more approachable. Seasonal plants add vibrant colors, and you can easily swap them out to keep the area fresh. A well-maintained pathway leading up to the entrance lets visitors know they’re welcome.
Revamping Your Home’s Exterior Materials To Draw Attention
The materials on your home’s exterior affect its appearance and can greatly impact curb appeal.
Choosing the Right Siding Material
Selecting the right material depends on various factors, such as your home’s architectural style, budget, and the local climate. Vinyl siding is popular for its low maintenance, while wood has a traditional look. Stone veneer, though more expensive, looks sleek and luxurious.
Roof Improvements for Visual Impact
Your roof accounts for a significant portion of your home’s visible exterior. If it’s worn out, this is an area worth investing in, for both practical and aesthetic reasons. Choose a roofing material and color that complements your home’s style and other exterior elements. Metal roofs, for instance, are long-lasting and energy-efficient, while tile roofs add a Mediterranean flair. Even if a complete replacement isn’t necessary, cleaning or repairing the roof can improve its appearance. Regular maintenance can extend the life of your roof and enhance its look.
Adding Architectural Details That Enhance Curb Appeal
Architectural details add character and visual interest to your home’s exterior. These elements bring out the uniqueness of your home’s design.
Trim and Molding Enhancements
Adding or updating trim around windows, doors, and rooflines can make a big difference in your home’s appearance. Consider installing crown molding, dentil molding, or decorative brackets to bring out your home’s style.
Window and Shutter Updates
Replace outdated windows with new, energy-efficient models. If replacement isn’t necessary, consider adding or updating shutters that are appropriately sized and styled for your home’s architecture. Adding window boxes with colorful flowers can further enhance the look.
Columns and Railings
Updating or repainting columns or railings can bring your home back to life if it’s looking weather-worn or drab. Some fresh paint in a new or more vibrant color is an easy way to give your facade a lift.
Landscaping for Curb Appeal
Well-designed landscaping can transform the look of your home and create a beautiful, welcoming environment. A thoughtfully planned garden adds beauty and reflects your personality and care for your home.
Front Yard Design Principles
Create a balanced landscape design that complements your home’s architecture. Use a mix of trees, shrubs, and flowers to add depth and interest. Add hardscaping elements such as a stone pathway or decorative edging to define spaces and add visual appeal. Properly placed, these elements guide the eye and create a coherent design.
Incorporating Water Features
Adding a small fountain or pond can add personality and sophistication to your landscape design. Water features add a soothing sound and visual interest, creating a peaceful retreat right in your yard.
Low-Maintenance Plant Selections
Choose plants that are well-suited to your climate and require minimal upkeep. Native species are a good choice, as they adapt to local conditions. Incorporate a mix of evergreen and deciduous plants to promote year-round interest. Consider adding foundation plantings to soften the transition between your home and the landscape. These plants not only enhance your home’s architecture but also reduce erosion.
Using mulch and ground covers can reduce the need for frequent watering and weeding. Mulch retains soil moisture and offers your garden beds a neat, finished look.
Lighting Your Home’s Exterior for Curb Appeal
Proper lighting creates a warm, inviting atmosphere after dark. It’s an important aspect of both safety and curb appeal, highlighting your home’s best features even at night.
Functional Lighting for Safety
Adequate lighting should be installed along walkways, near the garage, and at entry points to improve safety and security. Motion-sensor lights can be particularly useful for these areas. Pathways should also be well-lit to prevent accidents and direct visitors.
Decorative Lighting for Ambiance
Use decorative lighting to highlight architectural features and create a welcoming ambiance. Add landscape lighting to illuminate trees or garden features, or install attractive sconces on either side of the front door. Fairy lights in trees or around the porch can add a magical touch.
Energy-Efficient Lighting Options
Opting for LED lighting solutions can save energy and reduce maintenance. Solar-powered garden lights are also a great eco-friendly option.
Color Schemes That Boost Curb Appeal
The right color scheme can dramatically improve your home’s appearance and help it stand out in the neighborhood. Thoughtful color choices can make a big difference in the overall impression of your home.
Choosing the Right Exterior Paint Colors
Select a color palette that complements your home’s style and fits within the context of your neighborhood. Generally, it’s best to stick with three colors or fewer: one for the main body of the house, one for the trim, and an accent color for doors and shutters. Utilizing color samples can help visualize the final look.
Coordinating Accents and Trim
Make sure that your accent colors work well together with your primary color. Use darker or bolder colors sparingly as accents to add visual interest without overwhelming the overall design. Painted trim can highlight architectural details, while the right shade of paint on the porch floor or steps can tie the design together.
Seasonal Color Touches
Adding seasonal decorations such as wreaths or potted plants in complementary colors can refresh your exterior without a full paint job.
Quick Weekend Improvements
Improving your home’s curb appeal doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Many affordable projects can still give your home a makeover. You can complete simple projects such as painting the front door, updating house numbers, or adding a new mailbox in a weekend, without breaking the bank. Pressure washing the exterior, driveway, and walkways can also dramatically improve your home’s appearance, as can upgrading outdated fixtures to more stylish ones.
