Dear Homework,
My funky house has great personality, but it needs help moving past its awkward stage. I bought it after living in the neighborhood for many years because I saw potential. I just can’t figure out how to realize its hidden charm.

Sincerely,
—Awkward to Awesome


Dear Awkward to Awesome,
Your home does have unique features, including the glassed-in, second floor porch. I would like to accentuate and tone it down at the same time to create a more coherent presentation.

With all of the existing window frames and interior shutters, the porch columns get lost. To re-establish them as the most prominent element of the façade, I suggest painting the porch window frames a dark green. I also would use this color on the ornamental shutters, and then for a pop of color, paint the front door a bright red.

Next, change the landscape on the ground line of the house to create a more architectural connection with the columns by planting round boxwoods at their base and connecting them with a bed of Liriope and petunias. Upright evergreens at the corners of the porch frame this main element.

On the right side, reduce the plantings to show off the interesting curved wing wall, which helps add length and detail to the composition. Finally, edge the curb with an evergreen hedge to underscore this unique, refined composition.

Thanks for asking,
—Homework

Homework is penned by Paul Doerner, founding partner of The Lawrence Group. If you would like your home critiqued, contact us at  homework@townandstyle.com.