Our boring beige vinyl siding is in great shape, so it doesn't make budgetary sense to replace it. We've removed the faded blue shutters and given it a good washing, which has made a big difference. We've got some good ideas for "accessorizing" that will help update the look further.

One thing we can't figure out is what to do with the ugly white "columns" on either side of the entry overhang. As far as we can tell they are just plastic - not structural at all. No idea what was there when the house was built in 1962.

Do we remove them entirely? Replace them with something sleeker? I like the look of thin dark metal - I've seen chain used, even. But will that look odd with the white vinyl soffits?

The attached image shows the house with some of our planned updates roughly "photoshopped" in (window and door color, painted stoop). Other ideas in addition to the columns are welcome! So far we're doing wire railings for the side entrance, modern house number, new exterior lighting...