Hi Jennifer Robertson,

Are those photo collages? Cool!

So you're house has an symmetry which gives it some cool character and opportunity. Usually a solid, single color makes a great statement. Here you have enough push & pull of the facade that a 2-color option might give it that missing flair you're looking for.

It would be interesting to play with a one color on the 2-story section and the, 'wings,' being another. Another option that makes sense it the 2-story section and entry door section being the same color and letting the other, 'wing,' fade away visually.

Either way, with what looks like a timeless taste in simple palettes - a bright entry door of either yellow or red would really pop and make the front look great.

If you have any more questions, feel free to message me here on houzz!

Thanks,

-frank

Build Beautiful

I like the dark, and if using shakes, would use them for the entire exterior.

I also like the dark with the very light color trim.

(if those three round shrubs in front of those windows are imaginary shrubs, move two of them between the windows and throw the other one away).

Thanks for the comments!! I am really thinking switching the plan to the dark color is the right choice. Shrubs are totally fake just playing around in photoshop, the patio is going in today and gable roof in back is after . I’d love to do all shake ! My husband thinks shake is just okay , so we agreed on an accent , our peak was too awkward . The other idea we had in the front was to run shake down right under the windows or the the entire middle section, like the first commentator mentioned, making that area stand out . Also a portico that matches the patio cover in back to help with character but had to cut that from the budget for now . In person it’s a tri level, pretending to be a colonial.

I really like the dark color and I think a mix of shakes and lap siding would look good.

You're probably just tired of the white. Understandable! But the dark gray--while currently popular--has less staying power, especially on traditional homes like yours. The color works better on contemporary or MCM houses. On yours it runs the risk of being "That Creepy Black House".

You have a lovely home and I am sure you will love it when finished. I am someone who likes older homes to embrace their authentic style. Your new roof color is going to be informing your decision on siding color. Here are some inspirational photos. My biggest problem with your home is the lack of distinctive front entry. Have you considered creating a more interesting front facade? Even some awnings might help create some depth and dimension! Can you post actual current photos please?

I played with some ideas.

I took white arbors and front door facade from this photo.

A red door would help announce entry. Classic.

Thanks Flo Mangan for the visuals! we really wanted a portico over the front porch , but had to cut that for now with the patio work taking a lot of our budget. I did think about some sort of awnings on the bottom half we have the same issue with the house looking too flat, but didn’t think they would work until I seen your mock up. That’s something to consider!

You can paint your door red. And perhaps add black trim. That would give definition to your entry until you can do more. That plus a flared stone walkway from steps of porch to your circular driveway which would also help.

The charcoal color is very striking. With a creamy trim and some interesting features added to the front, it could be the most interesting house in your neighborhood.

I am on the white side. :-)))