Dear Homework,
I would like to update the look of my contemporary ranch house in West County. My main question is: Should I rip out all the existing landscaping and start over?
Also, could you suggest any impactful changes to the existing house that would require the help of just a handyman rather than a general contractor?
—Can Style Be Easy
Dear Can Style Be Easy,
Stop! Leave the existing landscaping alone. It perfectly frames the house and needs only a little infilling and edging to make it look crisp and lush.
Other easy upgrades would include a handsome new mahogany front door, a simple contemporary pendant light and a simplified entry column. These impart a classic, finished look that will be in style for years to come.
I also think painting the home’s fascia and overhang a darker color to better blend with the roof shingles will make the house feel more modern and current. A tall, simple urn finishes off an under-scaled planter area and underscores the importance of the entry.
All these suggestions could be done separately and over time, so a handyman could knock this out over a few weeks. It will take effort, but as far as remodeling goes, it should be easy.
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.
