like all of the suggestions from Marlene M, contrast the trim color it will freshen the look and make it pop! these homes have great bones, and do change with the blocks it looks like the house is not grounded. www.luminosodesign.com

If it was my house I would open up the porch

I agree that the blocks must go. I was thinking of small lattice. I get a lot of critters under there. I'm not sure what the traditional under-the-porch architecture is or was. Do I see shrubs under your porch Marlene? We have so many deer here, groups of up to twenty wander through the woods behind my house. I have seen the damage on other people's shrubbery. I have removed the shrubs from in front of my house. The photo is an old one. I replaced the shrubs with deer resistant plants.
I have considered removing the windows, but they make a barrier from the cold winter temperatures. What's a girl to do?

Hi Jo, the window are wonderful, do not replace them or if you do... use the same style and configuration. Check out houzz I am sure you can see the type of architecture that would work with and authenticate the style and era of your home. Its charming.. by the way! www.luminosodesign.com

I like the windows too. Have you considered closing in the whole underneath of the porch? Not lattice, something solid and a colour to match stone on house.

great idea Marlene, I totally agree. Stone would be fabulous!