Thank you for your comments. Actually another opinion is very helpful. We are going with simple square columns. Our neighbors were freaked out by the new door color. It is "daredevil orange". We love our neighbors and our door :-)

A better pic of the door color. We have replaced the doorbell button. I am looking for a new light fixture which will be better proportioned to the size of the door.

Looking at your beautiful home, I just sat here and smiled for several minutes. Everything about it is so welcoming, especially that gorgeous door! The beefed up columns will make it even nicer looking. I agree that you really don't need to do anything other than that and perhaps a larger brass lantern by the door. You could add shutters, but I don't think you need to. I Googled late 1800's homes and did find one with similar round top windows as on your second floor with shutters -

Here are some nice brass lanterns, and you can do a search here on Houzz and find several styles. Please keep us posted with MORE pictures! :-)

Very nice house, I'm not sure any "improvements" would make it better. You might think about painting the headboard of you porch roof a nice robin's egg blue. It would set off the door fantastically, as well as being historically appropriate. If you do decide to go with shutters (I wouldn't) please make sure they at least look like they would cover the windows if they are not fully functional.

my3dogs I love those pics especially the beautiful door/front porch. Those planters are to die for.

We found and mounted a new light fixture today. Can't wait for the new posts. I think with the input here we will hold on any other changes for now besides filling the flower pots :-)

I agree with others that your house is quite lovely as is, and although I do agree with having beefier columns, I would not want to see shutters on your house. I think shutters would just make it too busy and would cover too much of the siding. I LOVE your door. You have a charming home.
Diane

You're off to a good start. Your windows should be 2 over 2. Turned posts are good but wider. Do not do simple square columns. Please be true to the historic style of the house. Research before you make any mistakes. No railing - your porch is too low. What happened to your window casings? They should be 5" wide. You are also missing your porch beam - an important structural feature. I love your entrance but it seems to be the only original feature on the house. You probably had a double door. Shutters would be great but you need to do it right. If you don't know - read my shutters info before you do anything. http://www.oldhouseguy.com/shutters

Love the color of your home what colors did you use?

Roof it! I can't stand to see a historic home that has an old roof on it. It takes away from the overall look of the house. Find someone who will offer a color roof, and choose something other than black or grey!