This is Part 2 on Design focused on the exterior. If you missed Part 1, start here.
Lighting
Want to instantly improve your landscaping, curb appeal, or interior? Invest in lighting to create mood!
Backyard spaces
If you don’t have huge budget to build out an amazing covered patio area or outdoor kitchen, ways to improve your outdoor aesthetic, use and entertainment spaces include setting them up for usability. How would you want to experiencing dining outside, lounging with friends over a drink? Relaxing?
The high end luxury resort look is always a hit. Bring a little bit of your vacation into your outdoor experience
Use contrast to draw intrigue by using inexpensive wood products to create privacy or some shade. Pergolas are also great for having structure to install lighting
Don’t be afraid to be bright and cheerful outside even if the interior of your home is more neutral.
Curb Appeal + Landscaping
You don’t need lush landscaping to create an inviting space or warm look.
Enclosing your front yard space or a courtyard look is perfect for Southern CA and introducing the idea of hanging out in the front of your home with neighbors.
Exterior Paint Colors, Windows & Doors
If you own a Spanish home do NOT even consider the black color for your exterior unless you want to become the villain in your neighborhood.
Believe it or not apparently black exterior homes are currently desired if you are in a ranch, midcentury modern, cottage or even craftsman. It makes a statement for sure. One So CA appraiser noted that black painted exterior homes sold for higher prices. However, I don’t know how its going to stand the test of time and dark paint colors do not wear great in our very sunny environments so if you jump on the bandwagon be prepared to re-paint your home in a few years to either touch up the paint or ditch the dark.
Earth tons are otherwise popular right now, bringing some warmth to the home that isn’t white, gray or brown.
Wood accent siding in natural wood colors on the front facade is also highly desirable
Other popular trends are to keep your home neutral but paint the doors or trim with a pop of color
Light color paint with black windows or other darker or colorful trim is the other way to make your home pop by introducing contrast
For design aficionados- do you spy the Irving Gill?