We've done some amazing transformations with our many exterior renovations and if your exterior is less than awe inspiring - here is another one of our favorite exterior transformations to give you an idea of possibilities.

From Blonde and Blah to Fun and Functional

This project involved two-phases. The first was focused on making the home safe and comfortable for an aging parent and his daughter who was moving back into her childhood home to take care of Dad. Aging-in-place design strategies were key to the design goals along with creating separate spaces for both Dad and daughter.

The second phase involved updating the curb appeal of the outdated exterior and also creating an outdoor space for enjoying their beloved neighborhood.

Phase I Addition and Whole-Home Renovation

The Phase I remodel involved a whole-home renovation and addition onto the rear of the home. This first floor addition (which included a major kitchen renovation and first floor primary suite), added interest and dimension to the rear exterior, but did not make any significant changes to the street view.

Rear elevation before the Phase I remodel:

And after the addition:

The raised deck allows for an aging parent with mobility issues to easily move outdoors without having to navigate unsafe steps. The existing home's yellow vinyl siding was left alone for this phase as the clients planned to tackle the remaining exterior in the second phase.

Phase II - Updating the Curb Appeal

For this phase our clients wanted to get rid of the washed out exterior and bring some depth, interest and color to the front exterior of the home. The vinyl siding was also long overdue for replacement and the blonde brick may have been desirable in the 1950's when the home was built, but 70 year's later it was looking a bit tired. The clients longed for a more contemporary update that would also reflect their love of color.

Front Elevation before Phase II Remodel:

And After the Phase II Exterior Renovation:

The front patio was extended across the front of the home with a new roof extension that provides protection from the elements for visitors and for those just wanting to relax and take in the neighborhood happenings.

The clerestory windows over the garage were added as part of the Phase I Remodel to add natural daylight to the primary bathroom that was added onto the home. 

Custom-forged steel supports hold up the new patio covering and add interest. A new planter mimics the home's original front planter and helps to both define and frame the front patio space. It also provides the perfect place to put your feet up and/or place a drink. The new patio is also on the same level as the main living area so Dad doesn't have to worry about managing the steps to access the space.

The original blonde brick was removed and replaced with cement fiber lap siding. New doors and windows with black trim complement the steel supports and stair railings.

And finally, after originally planning on painting the chimney bricks to match the new planter bricks, our client decided to keep the original color to pay tribute to the home's roots and as a reminder of the many happy days spent in the home as a child.

Are you thinking about making some changes to your home's exterior? Here are some ideas on updating the curb appeal of your home. And if you're ready to take on your home's exterior - we'd love to start the conversation.