Wow that's lovely! Here is the other dilemma: I have moved the steps to the left side to add parking in front of the house, which is necessary in this very close community(with no on street parking and which is a frequent solution in this neighborhood). The base will actually match the side once the builders are done. I do love the bulking up of the uprights--it adds depth to the house. Any suggestions for colors/siding? I started pulling off the vinyl in the back of the house and found wood shingles in great condition that need cleaning and painting, and think this may be a short term solution for me.
Again, thank you--I also love the landscaping you've done to improve the front!

Could you recess the steps into the porch some in order to achieve a similar look but still provide the parking out front? It would esentially divide the porch into two sides with steps in the middle.

I'm in agreement with Dytecture in regards to the columns. That style is period correct. I WOULD NOT add the stone. A period correct wood base at the columns and some decorative panels between at the base. Another consideration would be to build up the fascia board to add more detail. Since you put the steps on the side you can add taller shrubs to tone down the long tall facade at the base of the porch. Great project. Enjoy the process !

Make sure there are proper gutters and leaders installed. Love the yellow and black, even if you do uncover the original siding.

I love the Dytecture suggestion and love the texture and interest provided by the stone - even if it isn't politically correct! I also agree re: the need for the front steps even though you need side steps for function. You could always have a simple stone path up to the steps...no need for a formal sidewalk. The steps look like a "big welcome" on the front of the house. I too like the yellow with black shutters but think the door could be some interesting color to help it stand out.

I don't like the idea of parking in the front of the house, don't think you'll ever be able to make it look good with a car in front, no matter how the colors come out. Is there enough room to park on the side where your new steps are now. Take those out and wrap the deck around to the front. Go with the front as Dytecture has suggested. I like the stone.

You might also consider taking the stair out of side deck and just have accessibility from inside the house or stairs on the side if the property is wide enough. This looks like it would give ample room to park in front of back deck rather than front yard. Then you can have a lovely entrance and good drive-up appeal.

Here is another option some stone with rails and columns
love the color combination on this also

Love the look interiorExpessions suggest for the front. Classic .

I know that Maine has a general color palette but I would spice it up some and paint the exterior a vibrant color but not too islandy. Maybe a Lion's mane gold with gray-green trim or a brick orange-red with white trim and a door with a punch of color like orange or yellow. I think little houses scream for attention and color is the way to give it too them. Wakes up a little plain Jane.