Hi davincisilver it looks like you have two discussions going on the same topic. I thought I would comment to get at least one going. There are several professionals that would start by recommending that you take down your shutters that don't cover the windows. A few would say don't paint the brick. I think you have a wonderful palette to work with and there are so many options. Do you have a budget in mind?

I agree with your idea to take the shutters down. Perhaps 5K spread out over the summer... Could continue with more over the next 12 mths.

The brick is a very pale yellow. What can be done?

I'm not a design professional, but I thought this article might be food for thought: https://www.houzz.com/magazine/urns-hold-huge-potential-for-garden-decorating-stsetivw-vs~2483076
I think you have so many options and adding visual interest through the use of urns and planters might be a fun thing to do. I'm looking forward to the advice you will receive from the pros. It might be helpful for people to know what zone you live in for landscaping advice. Would you like to keep the light fixture that's out front?

One more question, are you completely open to any colors?

No, I am not keeping the light fixture. I like the planters idea -Thank you. In the Midwest.

I like the creams and lighter hues. No white too stark.

Warm beige with some stone. Can you see in my ideabook the second pic is a re do.

I would paint the brick white, shutters black, door something bright (red, yellow...) get rid of the screen door, add a glass door and full length window boxes at every front window.

Thank you.

This is my neighbours house that reminded me of yours.

Nice, thanks for the pic.

Colours are over enhanced ,here is another one. Brick is red-pink

I agree, take down the shutters, don't paint the brick. Instead, this may sound wierd, but give the window more trim so they have more presence...and box out the wrought iron post with wood. Paint the trim and post by chooing an earthy colour that gives some contrast to the brick. create the walkway/porch the full space between the planter and the wall. Then re-do the path wider, add plantings to the foundation, maybe simple boxwoods and as another poster said a colour urn kltty corner to the planter and paint the front door to match the urn.... pow!
Then costs would not be insane, a fair amount of work but the impact will be worth it!

Great ideas! Would love to change the wrought iron. Wood may the answer. Thank you

The brick is very dull. Any ideas to give a little color to the brick?