Dear Homework,
Our family has been in this house a couple of years and we’re ready to get to work! Since we need to replace the aluminum siding and would like to replace the original windows, can we create a significant upgrade in curb appeal by re-thinking these costly items?
Sincerely,
—Ready to Get to Work
Dear Ready to Get to Work,
If you would combine new siding and new windows with a few other changes, not only could you increase the home’s curb appeal, you could completely change the look of your house.
Your house basically has a Tudor design, but the prim white clapboard siding and white double-hung windows confuse things. If the siding was wavy, dark-stained boards and the windows were also dark brown, the façade would feel more comfortable in its own skin.
A few other changes could help things along. By whitewashing the brick, the stone elements would feel more integrated. A new stone planter wall reiterates this material and makes the façade feel wider. A bigger, bolder light fixture over the front door completes the architectural changes.
Removing a street tree would reveal the architectural changes, and new evergreens to the left block out the neighboring house. A new, continuous hedge runs under the living room windows, and the dogwood has been moved to the far left so as not to block the facade’s most powerful element (the chimney). The existing liriope border has been extended.
The house now feels more authentic and stylish. I also think it feels bigger.
Hope that gives you direction,
—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.
