With fall approaching and cooler temps on the horizon, many Houstonians will be contemplating a fresh look for their home exterior. We’ve researched and compiled some of the hottest tends in exterior design to help you get the biggest impact without the cost of a major renovation. Whether you are an avid DIY’er or ready to take the plunge with a renovation company, we’ve got the ideas to get you started on the right path.
MODERN FARMHOUSE
Perhaps the biggest trend we’ve seen in home renovations this year has been the modern farmhouse look. With no signs of slowing down, this classic architectural style incorporates a modern vibe of crisp colors with a splash of dark accents, natural wood elements and industrial fixtures. Read on to learn how you can “get the look” for your own home. painted brick
Although the trend is certainly not new, painting your dated brick is an easy way to get big impact with little effort. The trend is so popular; Ft. Worth based homebuilder Clarity Homes (clarityhomes.com) now offers painted brick as an option for new home builds.
NEUTRAL COLOR PALLETS
Out with the bold and in with the neutral is what is trending now in exterior design. To get the modern farmhouse feel, lighter colors such as cream and white take centerstage with the added trim colors of dark grays and blacks accent the way to a fresh look that is sure to have your neighbors take notice. For exterior inspiration, check out Sherwin-William’s site snapyourcolors.com.
NATURAL WOOD ACCENTS
Looking to add a fresh feel to your new airy exterior, natural cedar wood accents are sure to be the perfect touch. From shutters, front doors and porch pillars to planter boxes, these projects are easy enough for the avid DIY’er to accomplish. Check out shadesofblueinteriors.com for a tutorial on wrapping those out of date porch columns or view this video by The Rehab Life youtube.com/ watch?v=gLfl8vC53Uw for some quick and easy cedar shutter inspiration.
BOARD & BATTEN
If you’re really in love with the farmhouse trend and want a complete overhaul of your home, try refacing the exterior with the look of board and batten. Add accents of natural stone to give the home a more Texan flare.
WINDOWS
Another update to consider when changing the look of your home is a window upgrade. This not only can enhance your curb appeal but also have the value of increased energy efficiency. Trending now are windows with a bold black frame that pop against those clean exterior colors. You can opt for the favorable double hung style or the simplistic picture window. Our friends at renewalbyandersen.com can help you find the perfect accent to your new exterior. For a stylish and durable addition to your home exterior, consider PVC outdoor shutters.
METAL ROOF
Long embedded into the farmhouse style is the added beauty of the metal roof on homes with high pitches. Although this route can put a dent in your pocket book, the long term benefits can help offset the cost. If you’re just looking for aesthetic value, one may opt for adding simple awning accents. However, if you’re going for major impact adding a metal roof is not without its benefits. Not only is this roof style an environmentally sustainable resource, it boasts a 50+ year life expectancy, is energy efficient, fire resistant and offers maximum wind resistance; meaning you won’t have to worry about replacing singles after hurricane season.
LANDSCAPING TRENDS
FINISHING TOUCHES
Sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest impact. Don’t forget about elements such as lighting fixtures, house numbers, flower pots and lush landscaping to finish off your look. Other elements you may consider new colored gutters or a stylized garage door. Look for ideas on sites such as pinterest.com, houzz.com or my favorite magnolia.com by Chip and Johanna Gaines.
