If you want to funk it up, do not do anything with horizontal siding. When I look at your duplex, all I see is that long light colored roof. What color is it actually; a light gray?

You are correct, the new paint color does not work with the roof color and I think getting that right is the way to go. Paint is cheaper than siding.

Think of your house this way: as interesting planes that you have somehow made all come together. By this I mean use color to define the planes (light roof long rectangle), second story box with peak, 2 entry doors and 4 sets of windows.

I will look for pictures for you to show you the concept I am trying to explain.

[Periscope House - Transformational Addition[(https://www.houzz.com/photos/periscope-house-transformational-addition-contemporary-exterior-chicago-phvw-vp~20685268)

oops, just hit last line to see house

[A Small Retreat by the Ocean[(https://www.houzz.com/photos/a-small-retreat-by-the-ocean-contemporary-exterior-seattle-phvw-vp~442201)

Yes, the roof is light grey. I appreciate the input and look forward to seeing any pics you find. I agree that the paint color isn’t right and paint is relatively cheap but there is more house in the back (add ons) that isn’t visible in this picture. It would take lots of time and paint to prep, prime and paint adding quite a bit to budget. We will eventually paint but for now the lower dollar amount seemed to be just changing some trim on the front windows or some minimal paint change to accent area. Just need ideas. Thanks again

Those are nice. I esp like the waldrum residence. I think it’s because it combines the varied colors along with the texture of the vertical lines. Similar to my idea of adding the corregated metal

Love the ideas visualizemaven shows you in her pics. I agree that the shutters need to go and the doors need to change into something with modern lines. I personally think you could get a better look by changing your landscaping if painting isn't in the budget at the moment.

ETA: I don't know where you are geographically, but something along these lines for landscaping would move you toward the contemporary/modern direction:

Acacia · More Info

Contemporary Landscape - Dramatic Transformation - San Rafael, CA · More Info

Concrete jungle is the perfect description and I appreciate the landscape suggestions.

hey grits - so... even if there is a lot of house behind the front elevation.....so what? you can't see it when you look at the home from the curb so just focus on improving the curb appeal from the front elevation.

I think it would be cool to either paint (with a strong accent color like orange as shown in the waldrum residence) or cover the 2nd story peak with a color or galvanized steel that would continue to the first story as a vertical element. That would help break up the strong horizontal lines which currently exist.

I think you are on the right track to go edgy and contemporary with your beach home!