Dear Homework,
We purchased our home this April and absolutely love the interior layout. The outside, however, has been neglected with overgrown landscaping, uneven walkways and a dark, unbalanced exterior. I’d love to explore whitewashing the brick if it would fit the Tudor style, and I want a new front door to allow more light into the house. We have a big front yard, so a circle drive is possible, but it might mean taking down a big elm tree. Would love your amazing eye on how to give this house better curb appeal!
Sincerely,
—Looking for a Lighter, Brighter Future
Dear Looking for a Lighter, Brighter Future,
I have lots of thoughts about your basically good-looking house. First, you can whitewash the brick. I think you’ll see it works wonders in bringing the entire composition together by reducing the distinction of the ‘light’ and ‘dark’ parts. Next, I show building a more prominent entry portal to give that area some oomph. I would choose a solid wood front door, but you could add a wood and glass storm door for the light you desire.
I also have created a small terrace outside the front door and bordered it with new brick wing walls. These, together with a new parking area, give the entry element ‘star status’ in the new composition.
Additional architectural upgrades include an enlarged staircase window, brick piers and walls at the driveway, and a steeper garage roof to match the main house.
Finally, the existing large trees have been retained while allowing for a more useful driveway and a bolder landscape plan. Hopefully some of these ideas can light the way to the future you want.
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.
