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| Create drama. The most critical aspect missing from the average ranch is a little bit of drama. In my dreams, I give my ranch drama with turrets, chimneys and grand additions. In my reality, I am inspired by designs that inject drama into an average ranch. The wood plank wall, the modern portico and the plantings give this home pizzazz, and I am simply smitten. Private Comment
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| Replace the front door. Replacing a worn or outdated front door is a great investment — and in a ranch style home the impact is even greater. Private Comment
The front door is the lipstick of a house facade, and can make or break the look (ever seen the wrong shade of pink on a redhead?). A splash of color, an expanse of polished walnut or even an artistically designed screen door can give your home a graceful and alluring smile or a quirkily charming grin. |
| Emphasize the horizontal. Ranch style homes are long, low and horizontal in orientation. Adding a pathway bordered by brick columns and iron fencing repeats the same long, low line, but orients it towards the visitor. This balances the entire look of the home and draws your eye to the gorgeous front door. Private Comment
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| Try a portico. A portico is simply a small roof over the entry, braced by two columns. It is a defining feature that gives shape to the facade and also serves the practical purpose of a shelter from weather at the front door. Private Comment
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| A portico need not be classical. You can use modern lines and materials to create a fresh look. While a portico is an investment, it will make a strong impact on your home's facade. Private Comment
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| Add plants. If you don't have mature trees, you can still use annual and perennial plantings to boost your home's curb appeal. Black-eyed Susans are a cheerful welcome and a great contrast to the butter yellow and cornflower blue of this home. Private Comment
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| Add architectural elements to the landscape. Accentuate plantings with large raised beds and a matching mailbox post. Notice how the three brick structures create a triangle and balance the pathway; all three elements working together to draw your eye to the front door. Private Comment
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| How have you updated your ranch home? Did you add plantings for a little height? Did you add a pathway, porch or portico? How did you inject drama into the facade of your ranch? Let me know in the Comments section. Private Comment
More: Houzz Tour: Open and Cozy Family Space My Houzz: Ranch Home in the Northwest Suburbs Houzz Tour: A Sweet Southern Makeover Houzz Tour: A Mid-Century Modern Getaway |
