I like your idea. A portico would help protect the entry and make it more appealing.

Yes, add the portico . it will make the house more welcoming, more finished looking. As is, the house doesn't offer a hug to it's guests, with the portico, it will say "come in'

Wow, so many responses so quickly, thanks so much!! I also wanted to mention that the entire front landscaping was ripped up and is being redone, so the entire "curb appeal" is completely in flux... so I know the front needs that hug feel... decoenthusiaste- you really hit on one of my biggest internal issues -- will this ruin the historic image of the house. There are so many on my street, some just like mine, some hybrids, some fully updated and non-historic. Another thought I had was just looking at possible trim? I would love your thoughts on that as well (i just did a quick search on this one so I know this one isnt exactly historically aligned either, but similar to your imaged named "exteriors" you added)

or this

@samsamyd do you think some of the landscaping would lend in the "hug" - That photo was taken right after all of the shrubs were removed so it was quite baron.... Right now it looks like this, however one of the plants didn't survive the winter, so I am going to be rethinking the whole front plantings! The hug comments makes me sad, but obviously, I know exactly what you are talking about so I am working on just that!

For your garrison colonial, I don't think a portico would work. But you could add a farmer's porch. This would be consistent with many old houses here in New England, that were modified in the 19th century.

Personally, a home without someone who is standing on the porch waiting for the door to be answered to be sheltered from the rain is unwelcoming to me. It is how it feels to me.

I would go with feeling welcoming which, in my opinion, overrides what others did in the past. Just because others did not want to have that welcoming feel does not mean we have to repeat it. That would be like saying "My answers were stoic and never spoke of feelings so I will not either" or "My Father never expressed love so, as a Father, I won't either."

I see awareness of the past as something to learn from, not something to repeat without thought.

I realize my perspective often differs from that of others but I will share it anyway.

I say decide what feels best to you. Imagnie guests coming to your home and how you want them to perceive it. Imagine the neighborhood, how do you want it perceived? Then do whatever feels best to you.

I think #1 is what you're looking for, but to be truthful I like #2. Most of my friends are backdoor guests anyway, so a covering doesn't make much of a difference. Sorry, I forgot about Garrison Colonial - that is correct. Not seeing a side or back view, I was thinking saltbox, but just couldn't put my finger on the actual term I wanted.

I have one on my dutch colonial and love it, just made it wider, even better

I think that the lintel will work better than the gable because of the overhang.

YOU HAVE TWO POSTS GOING AT THE SAME TIME. PLEASE, FIX . THANK YOU.

I have multiple posts because I have one talking about porticos and the other about landscaping. I figured that is ok given that they are totally different topics

What you didn't mention in this dilemma unlike you other one, is that your house is historic and was built in 1774. Porticos were not used at that time on this style house and others who have enthusiastically endorsed the addition of a portico might not realize the historic consequences. Please don't alter the original facade.

If that is the case, perhaps then he could construct whatever he wants, as long as it does not touch the existing structure? Is just the house listed or is it the house and grounds?

Oh, no! Don't do anything to it if it is hysterical - call a psychiatrist! As per my original post - no portico, and now no pergola.

It's not in the historic district and the owner can do whatever he wants, I just hope the house remains pure to its roots, it's such a lovely example.

I see. Well, I would suggest then that a portico could be constructed immediately in front of the house but which did not touch it. As long as the flashing could be installed after the fact, I wouldn't have a problem with it. It could always be taken down later.

While these houses are often referred to as "Saltbox" style, they are categorically Post-medieval English. It is considered a Saltbox in lay terms but the root of origin for the house is medieval architecture which is entirely the opposite of buildings rooted in classical architecture. Placing a classical porch on this house could conflict with the existing simplicity of its design. A better solution would be one in which you could place a single story gabled cover with side walls over the front door. The exact proportions and detail would be best left to an architect and developed with careful thought. I can help you with this though I am in California. Maybe I can help you find someone in your vicinity.

Nevertheless, it is your house and I think you should be able to do whatever you want with it. But I think you are best served by my recommending good professional assistance here. You have an historical gem and it probably is to your advantage to consider alterations carefully.

Not a designer here, but just wanted to say your front door is really wonderful! Pretty house, too.

I'm in love with your house and its color. I love the fact that is true to its roots in simplicity. I would not add anything to it.

https://youtu.be/2UuRIpVTgIQ

2013