Create a Welcoming Home – Exterior Design Ideas
May 6, 2022
The front of your home is like the cover to a storybook! It sets the stage for friends, family and guests for what’s to come next. Whether you’re starting from scratch at a newly built home or just want to make some improvements for your own enjoyment, adding curb appeal is often an easy and inexpensive way to make your home look nicer and boost its value. Here are some great solutions from our designers that will help your home make a welcoming first impression.
Define a Clear Path
Easily make your home look more inviting and more put together by designing a clearly-defined path. Go big and build one out of stone or brick, or opt for a simpler approach by using visual cues like lighting and plants to line a clear path to your front door through the grass or around an existing concrete drive or walkway.
Lush Greens + Delicate Florals
One of the most impactful ways to boost first impressions is to add fresh greenery and flowers. You don’t have to worry if you’re short on time or don’t want to break the bank putting in a garden—you can easily get the same effect by adding some planters and installing window boxes. Use plants to highlight and frame key visual points, like windows and entryways. Even hanging planters can be used to add visual interest if you’re short on space and don’t have room for a standing planter. A single plant arrangement can significantly add to your home’s exterior appearance.
Lawn Maintenance is Key
Lawn care is a big part of maintaining curb appeal. But when you regularly water your lawn, mow your grass, rake away leaves and debris, lawn care won’t become a huge project.
Dressing the Door
Instead of blending in, boost curb appeal by having your front door stand out. Painting a front door is an inexpensive, easy DIY job, even for beginners. Opt for a bold color that accentuates and enhances the other exterior colors of your home. Don’t be afraid to go bold and bright, however make sure you either hold up or paint a test swatch before committing — you want to make sure you know what to expect with the final product. There are even a few paint apps that let you virtually ‘try on’ different colors.
Also, consider door decor! Wreaths aren’t just for Christmas. Hang wreaths year-round to match the seasons or to simply add a dose of beauty to your front door. Look for wreaths made from dried or preserved greens and florals, or if you want an even simpler option, look for one made from faux plants. Whether a wreath or simple door plaque, dressing your front door is a great solution to a welcoming entrance.
Let There Be Light
There’s nothing welcoming about a dark entryway. Replace dingy, small sconces or hanging pendants with something more fresh and fun. Make sure to clean off cobwebs and season debris from around outdoor light fixtures, which will instantly make your entrance appear more bright and clean. If you need some additional light sources, talk to an electrician or contractor to add new elements or use solar powered lanterns to light up the front walkway.
Smart Outdoor Furniture
Too much furniture can clutter your home’s exterior appearance, while too little can make it look sparse and neglected. Find a good balance in the middle, making sure any outdoor furniture you choose is clean and in good condition. For smaller entries, think about putting in a simple bistro set or ceramic stools for seating, and add a little extra charm with a pretty planter on the top.
Overall, don’t be afraid to add personality to your home, but be mindful of ‘overdoing’ it. Lean more towards a clean and simple appeal to your home’s exterior. Our team at Paul Gray Homes is willing and ready to answer any questions you might have about designing your new home. Call us today at 316-978-9047!
