Dear Homework,
We would like your insights to improve the curb appeal of our ranch home. The east-facing front is so long, we wonder about landscaping and façade options, including a new front door and new siding. The partial stonework is a tan color, with some mossy olive undertones, and we are unsure how to complement or contrast the siding color. We have also wondered about adding a portico and lighting to pull it together.
Thank you,
—Long Story Short
At least your home has its bold stone chimney to counter all that horizontality. I would like to build a more interesting composition around this element. This will concentrate more visual interest around the center of the façade, therefore breaking it into three separate elements.
First, I suggest a low garden wall of a stone to match the chimney. This creates a charming entry court and adds depth to the façade. Next, a front-facing, gable-roofed porch adds an additional vertical element to balance the chimney. I would connect the two elements with a wooden trellis to cast interesting shadows.
A new Prairie-style garage door and Japanese Maple tree add interest and detail to the left side of the composition, while bolder landscaping and a new entry walk to the street support the other new additions. Several Prairie-style light fixtures complete the transformation. I think your existing colors are fine.
Hopefully, you can see that these (exterior only) additions totally transform your, frankly, unassuming residence into something rather sexy. Sometimes, a simple façade is the easiest type to change.
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.]