I would actually add more trim to the windows and forget the shutters you need a ton of landscaping too.

Either get an architect, and save a bunch of money first. (Removing shutters will only make the tiny windows , tinier in appearance ) . Or replace the rotted, do the new roof, paint all the brick and upper the same color, get a new door. By the time that is done, you will be short on cash you need desperately , for the absent landscaping.

Do you have any inspiration photos of a Palm Springs look?

http://www.lifeofanarchitect.com/residential-architecture-101-shutters/

OMG, you actually have the room for properly-sized shutters on the left side! Please don't try to make your new home into something it's not. It isn't Palm Springs and never will be...unless you have oodles to spend, which you don't. Have an almost-retired carpenter check out the big front window for an evaluation. That window is the best part of the house. Accentuate the style, don't fight it. You can have great curb appeal if small steps are taken over time.

Read the link I gave you re: shutters. The ones you have are the wrong size BUT, you have the room for properly-sized ones.

Top inspiration photo. That house has all siding (no brick) on the left = easy, not too costly window change. Your lower windows are in brick = $$$. On the right is the flat, typical, "picture window" flanked by casements = ugh, just ugly IMO.

Replacing your existing lovely bow window will be expensive, we're talking a custom-sized window...unless you're willing to settle for a stock size with wood filler to make it fit.

If you replace the bow with a flat window a pergola will be an asset...because it "breaks up" the flatness of the facade...which is what the bow is now doing.

A darker roof, and less contrasting cream to light tan trim, and bit darker greeney grayer bronze paint, with a bright door, is all this house needs.

I'd go in the direction Sophie went, although I prefer fresher colors. The brick is nice and won't benefit from being painted. If you have to replace the windows, I think either with or without the grills would be fine. But get a color scheme first--I think bronze or black windows might look pretty nice on the brick.

Your second inspiration photo could work with the house, although maybe not on the front. (Your first one looks like a mistake--don't do that!) When you are ready to spend money on landscaping, a designer should be able to get you that pergola-planter thingy worked into the design.

The star feature of the house is the bow window. You can get estimates to replace it with something equally showy and attractive. The house is not going to have a 1950's or 1960's MCM vibe unless you are willing to cut into the brick to replace the windows with a far different style, and even then, it will look like someone tried to shoehorn it into a style it never had. But you can change the paint scheme to something newer when you get a new roof and new siding. New shutters would enhance the traditional style.

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I think the mod door competes too much with your bay window. I'd paint what you have a fun color and keep the full lite storm door.

Painted brick is cheap, flat, and lifeless looking. And a maintenance nightmare. Don’t paint brick. Work with it as is.

Your house is great! Do not paint the brick. Add proper shutters. Repair/replace large window. Use khaki siding, olive green shutters, and a dark red door, Finish with landscaping. Also, pretty window treatments are necessary.

Nice house.

As you replace the large fixed window on the right, consider a bay widow -- with windows that open.

http://innardsinterior.com/137/ideas/gorgeous-bay-window-replacement-ideas-best-20-bay-window-exterior-ideas-on-pinterest-a-dream-bay/

A front porch would be an upgrade -- even a small one.

http://nationalshomeplate.com/detail/5c1be00b-best-25-split-level-exterior-ideas-on-pinterest-split-entry.html

Would move all the small shrubs in front to create a green wall along the back edge of your lot and start your front landscaping without them. the large bush on the right looks healthy and almost hides your downspout completely; should probably leave it.

Agree that you could use some larger shutters.

Well done. I like it, even though I'm not a fan of painting brick. You kept the windows but changed the siding. I really like the board and batten. Love the color of the house. The black gutter is actually a design feature! Perfect front door for this look.

Wow!!! That is amazing! A lot of folks in my area have this type of home, I would love them to see what was done here!

Love it!