Dear Homework,
I’ve lived in my two-story brick Colonial for decades. I would like to make some upgrades, but don’t know where to start. The house sits on a curve, so the long left side is exposed to everyone driving by. I am thinking about adding new white shutters to the front and side. Beyond that, I’m not sure what else I could do.
Any thoughts?
Sincerely,
—Behind the Curve
Thanks for your submission. I’ve always felt that the corner houses in a neighborhood have an important potential to improve the overall feel of the neighborhood, by enhancing an often underdeveloped, yet visible, side façade and yard.
In your case, I do think that new white (versus the current black) shutters on the front and side elevations would add a more impactful detail. Please note, I do not advocate putting shutters on the curved bow window. In addition, I suggest adding two new pilasters at the brick façade on the front porch to upgrade the weak detailing on this important feature.
For the landscaping upgrades, I would focus on the side elevation. I would use masses of ornamental grasses to mask the visible mechanical equipment and tie the length of the side together. I also would add two tall, upright evergreens at the corner to add vertical interest, and some large urns with flowers to the front porch for a welcoming feel. I would under-plant your existing, nicely trimmed hedge with liriope grass
for a lusher look.
To me, these changes pull the whole house together, at reasonable expense, and should put you ahead of the curve for some time to come.
Hope this is useful,
—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.