Dear Homework,
A couple of years ago we painted our house, but I still think it needs something so it doesn’t look so ‘cookie cutter’ in our neighborhood. We also need an additional parking area either at the back of the driveway or elsewhere. Would love your expert advice!
Sincerely,
—How Can We Make It Better?
Dear How Can We Make It Better?,
To begin with, I love the new colors you chose for your house. The siding color really makes the trim details stand out. To build on that good start, there are several things we could do to elevate your style.
First, I would like to take advantage of the property’s topography by building a series of stone retaining walls to frame a new entry walk and stairs. Plant these walls with low evergreen hedges. I also would add a new stone wall to create a level parking area on the same side as the garage. To screen the parked cars, use another evergreen hedge. Finally, a new stone pier replaces the existing mailbox.
A white picket fence acts as a railing along the walkway from the new parking area and adds an additional ‘layer’ that gives the façade new depth.
Major landscape changes include a new, informal evergreen buffer at the property line to keep the focus on your house. I also removed the tree that I felt blocked the dining room bay, which needs to be seen. I think these changes create a much more custom feel while also giving you some useful new features.
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.