When spring and summer arrive, the days are longer, and everything is in bloom, which means one thing for many homeowners: it’s time to start thinking about the outside of the house. More than any other, these seasons bring a burst of energy and motivation for fresh design inspiration! Whether you’re repainting, updating your front door, or reimagining your home’s entire exterior color scheme, spring and early summer are when these projects move from “that would be nice” to “let’s do it!”
This time of year is ideal because the weather is cooperative, the vibrant colors of spring and summer are popping, and natural light is abundant; now’s the time to be inspired and act on it! But before you do, let’s discuss a few exterior design ideas to adopt and mistakes you’ll want to avoid as you plan your home’s new look.
White can be beautiful, but it often misses the mark when it’s too stark. Bright white may seem like a safe, classic option, but it can become blinding, harsh, and even cold in full sunlight. Many new modular homes/McMansions assign bright white as the trim and siding go-to options, but there are many more options to choose from. Instead, opt for something softer. I always recommend whites with a hint of warmth; think the color of vanilla ice cream rather than bright paper white. These creamy off-white colors still give you that fresh, clean look, but feel far more inviting and gentle.
One of the most overlooked pieces of the exterior design puzzle is the roof, which plays a much bigger role in color coordination than people realize. If your roof has cool undertones, such as slate gray or charcoal, look to cool colors like soft blues, pale and charcoal grays for the body of the house. If your roof leans warm, with brown or reddish tones, then warm exterior colors are your best match. Think warm greens, wheaty-tans, rusts, rich browns, or even a warm greige/taupe.
A neutral roof with a blend of cool and warm hues gives you the most freedom. You can lean either direction with your house color, as long as it complements and doesn’t clash.
It’s tempting to pick a little of this and a little of that, but mixing too many color families can create a design that feels scattered and disconnected. If the main body of your house is in the blue family, then your trim, shutters, and accents should support that palette with quiet, complementary tones. Let one color family take the lead, and let the others gently enhance it. Too many competing colors can make the exterior feel busy and almost frantic.
The best approach is to choose one focal point. If your siding color makes the statement, let the door and trim be more subtle. If your front door is the showstopper, keep the rest of the palette quiet so it can really shine. Think of it as setting the stage. With everything else playing a supporting role, one strong element gives your home balance and style.
Now, this may seem like a silly “but of course!” detail to keep in mind, but homeowners come to me and say, “The painter says I need to pick a color right away,” or, “He wants me to use leftover paint from another job.” Or even, “He doesn’t like the color I chose, and now I’m second-guessing myself.” No. This is your home, and these are your decisions!
Painters are great at what they do, but choosing the right color for your home is about much more than what’s convenient or someone else prefers. Don’t feel rushed. If you love a color and it feels right to you, that’s what matters. It’s amazing how often people cave under painter pressure; honestly, I hear these complaints several times a week, it’s a little ridiculous!
Designing your home’s exterior isn’t just about curb appeal; it’s about creating a look that reflects your personality and welcomes you whenever you come home. Choose colors you love, consider the roof, and don’t be afraid to keep things simple and intentional.
Most importantly, trust your instincts and don’t let anyone rush you, especially not your painter. When you stay true to your vision, the result is a home that feels just right.
As your go-to color expert/color consultant, I’m always happy to answer any questions you may have.
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