Improving plain facade of a house

13 years ago

I am shopping for a house. I like this house but it looks too plain/boring from outside. I am trying to see past it and need some help envisioning an improved look. I know nothing about renovations and wonder if this look can be improved without completely rebuilding/spending lots of $$$. I'd appreciate some thoughts. Thank you!

Featured Answer

AMN

13 years ago

First thing I would do is see if those window grills are removable. They look like they might be. That will give you a cleaner, more elegant look.

A new paint color might be nice. I'd like to see a medium-toned, warm gray on the body. with a slightly lighter warm gray on the trim, and a darker gray on the garage door. You can paint the front door a fun color to greet guests.

New plantings underneath the windows (and wrapped around any corners if possible) will soften the look of the home. The plantings need to be voluptuous (or grow to be voluptuous) to hide some of the foundation. Perhaps some grasses would give you a softer look.

You have a great driveway. It's nice that there are some pavers to break up the concrete a little bit. Look into some large urns in which you can plant fluffy greenery. Those could go on either side of the sidewalk to the front door. Doing something like that would help announce the entry. Or you could just put a cluster of multiple sized urns with plantings near the corner.

The house is missing some light fixtures. Add some in a style that you like and that fits the house. Make sure they're sized appropriately.

Are you in CA?

This is a nice color combo too:

Residential Remodel · More Info

I find this house inspirational for your potential project:

Lake Country Builders · More Info

california dreaming - the exterior · More Info

Natural wood garage door someday?

Entrance · More Info

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Comments (8)

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ASVInteriors
13 years ago
Do you want it more modern or more traditional? Any particular style?
kohfleming
Original Author
13 years ago
Oh, I got someone's attention! Thank you. I don't have anything particular in mind but I lean toward more modern.
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Samantha Parsons
13 years ago
You can add garage hardware, a pull, little hinge things on either side they are very cheap and easy DIY, also just gardening is fairly easy, you could add shutters if you think that will work for your potential home..
kohfleming
Original Author
13 years ago
Thanks, Samantha. Shutters on the outside?
lmait
13 years ago
If traditional, maybe adding betting decorative molding around the windows and doors would enhance. Also creating a base-like finish would make the house appear to be sitting on it. A stone veneer wrapping the base of the house would keep a very natural theme. This would add contract. A splash of color would be great also.
lmait
13 years ago
Modern....create clean lines. Keep patterns to a minimal. Also adding landscape at the base of the house would work, and if possible, landscape lighting. I say shutters on the outside.
handymam
13 years ago
The first thing that came to mind for me was mediterranean, or spanish mission modern if there is such a thing, lol.

I also don't like the window grilles. I would paint out the garage door the same color as the house to look like a wall, not like a garage.

I think landscaping would help greatly, and not break the budget if there is not a lot of money after buying.

Somehow, you need to make the entrance more prominent. Someone with more architectural knowledge may be able to suggest a look that would be compatible with your house that would add a covered entryway to your home.