Dear Homework,
We are excited about the potential of our recently purchased Colonial in a West County subdivision of similar style homes. We have lots of plans for the home’s interior, but on the exterior, aside from installing a Carriage-style garage door and new roof, we are at a loss. We turn to you for some bold suggestions. We like the Colonial style but are also drawn to the stone European country look that is currently popular. Which do you think would suit our home better?
Sincerely,
—Make Me Love My House
Dear Make Me Love My House,
Luckily, it is time for a Homework Extra Credit, so I can show you both options for your home. In each example, I have tried to create a look that would not be too out of step with neighboring homes.
colonial style
You will first note that I have added a center dormer and have made all three a tad taller. The ground-floor double window on the right has received an arched brick top, keeping with the front porch arches. A new garage door, cupola and picket fence add charm and detail. The brick has been whitewashed, and a new slate-colored roof has been chosen.
You also will note that new landscaping at the curb helps frame the view of the home while leaving most of the generous lawn intact. A more appropriate mailbox completes the transformation.
european look
More changes are needed to create a European look. A larger, projecting dormer is centered on the living room window and an adjacent, plunging roofline frames a new shuttered front door. A low stone wall with corner light piers creates an entry court and adds a new layer of architectural dimension. A new garage door and an arched dormer complement the European theme.
The center section of the façade has received a stone veneer, and the remaining brick walls have been whitewashed. A slate-colored roof has been used here as well, and those colors are reiterated in the wood trim and shutters.
A clipped hedge at the curb is augmented with shade trees, which help frame the new composition. This time, a stone mailbox pier completes the changes.
Hopefully these examples help you see new options for your remodeling plans. I think both schemes move the appeal of your home up a couple of notches. Thanks for the interesting submission,
—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.
