Let's look closer at the oak tree canopy. Its small, leathery leaves are tough to ignite. The density not only protects the home from flying embers, it provides complete privacy and an abundance of energy-saving shade. Photo: Lesly Hall Photography

The shape of the angled porch-roof, sets the tone for a truly modern entryway. This protective covering makes a dramatic statement, as it hovers over the front door. The blue-stone terrace conveys even more interest, as it gradually moves upward, morphing into steps, until it reaches the porch. Porch Detail The multicolored tan stone, used for the risers and retaining walls, is proportionally carried around the base of the house. Horizontal sustainable-fiber cement board replaces the original vertical wood siding, and widens the appearance of the facade. The color scheme — blue-grey siding, cherry-wood door and roof underside, and varied shades of tan and blue stone — is complimented by the crisp-contrasting black accents of the thin-round metal columns, railing, window sashes, and the roof fascia board and gutters. This project is a stunning example of an exterior, that is both asymmetrical and symmetrical. Prior to the renovation, the house had a bland 1970s exterior. Now, it is interesting, unique, and inviting. Photography Credit: Tom Holdsworth Photography Contractor: Owings Brothers Contracting

Exterior Painting - The beautiful pillars of this car port really stand out nicely with this Sherwin Williams SuperPaint Bright White Gloss Sheen. The body of the house is painted with Sherwin Williams SuperPaint Foggy Day Flat Sheen.

Exterior Painting: The cedar siding is the focal point on this two story house with tuck under garage. Gray exterior paint and white trim compliment the brick ledge very nicely.

Landscape/exterior design - Molly Wood Garden Design Photo - Lane Dittoe
Patio - coastal patio idea in Orange County

Patio - contemporary concrete patio idea in Grand Rapids with a roof extension

Paul Dyer
Large classic front porch idea in San Francisco with decking and a roof extension

Photo: Whitney Lyons © 2014 Houzz
Example of a classic entryway design in Portland

Hoi Ning Wong
Photo of a traditional full sun formal garden in San Francisco.

One consideration, of course, is avoiding toxic chemicals in your plant care. “Earth-friendly lawn and plant care is very possible,” says Dave Stockwell of Deck and Ptio. “It not necessary to go for a fast kill of plant disease and pests. Besides, you might also hurt helpful organisms in the process. Not to mention that toxic chemicals in large amounts are also dangerous to pets and children. A more organic approach is a much healthier way to control them — and protect butterflies and other pollinators in the process while you’re at it.”

Exterior Painting: Here's another back view of the house. Doesn't that Bright White Super Paint on the trim stand out nicely against the Nuthatch brown of the stucco?

This sunroom faces into a private outdoor courtyard. With the use of oversized, double-pivoting doors, the inside and outside spaces are seamlessly connected. In the cooler months, the room is a warm enclosed space bathed in sunlight and surrounded by plants. Aaron Leitz Photography

Large contemporary white two-story stone gable roof idea in Dallas with a metal roof

Alcove shower - transitional beige tile alcove shower idea in Miami with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, dark wood cabinets and beige walls

Exterior Painting - In this close up, you can see how well the colors come together for a very modern look.
Inspiration for a large southwestern beige two-story mixed siding exterior home remodel in San Diego

Travis Wayne Baker
Example of a cottage light wood floor kitchen design in Austin with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, green cabinets, wood countertops, white backsplash, subway tile backsplash and stainless steel appliances

Exterior Painting - And here's the left side after painting. We used Sherwin Williams SuperPaint for siding, trim and doors.
Mid-sized contemporary gray two-story exterior home idea in Raleigh

Example of a mid-sized cottage backyard concrete paver patio kitchen design in Nashville with a roof extension

Exterior Painting - This gorgeous white pillared porch is so inviting, don't you think? We used a durable Sherwin Williams white gloss paint for the trim.