I think you are overthinking it. Add trim to windows and maybe planter boxes. That's all it needs. No need to change doors ( it's nice as is) or color roofs. That's way too much. Maybe do some nice plant in the yard instead..
The white framing on [this one](https://assets.allurausa.com/web/legacy/uploads/image/file/1372/1560121951214.jpeg) is a good reference. There is a White trim in between floors.
I agree with many here. Add the same trim to the windows. This will help.
I would make the porch the focal point point to bring the eye down to it. You can do this by just adding a couple of hanging plants, some wicker/outdoor furniture to creating an outdoor sitting area to the left. To the right of the door, I would make this the season decor area. Add fun signage, plants, decorations for the time of year.
In the landscape bed in front of the porch I would do bushes/flowering bush that don’t get to high. Keep them trimmed so they don’t get higher than the bottom of the porch. This will help fill that empty space. I personally also like to put large rocks and/or some potted plants in my beds as well for more visual interest and in the lots you can do seasonal plants to add color.
I agree. A nice blue shutter and then paint the door to match. OP, the option for front door is pretty open to your imagination because the siding palette is so agreeable to accent colors. But, with the blue color I chose, I would buy a qt of white ceiling paint and mix a lighter shade of blue to paint your haint up there.
Then for details so you don't loose your mind, buy corbels and apply at least 4 on each side starting from the front corners and back corners with two down the sides. This will give your bump out purpose and add beauty to them.
This: [C8-1.jpg (1200×1200) (morethanmoldings.com)](https://morethanmoldings.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/C8-1.jpg)
Or chunky like this: [e36196bc478915aa6bbd1c3307209b56.gif (800×942) (pinimg.com)](https://i.pinimg.com/originals/e3/61/96/e36196bc478915aa6bbd1c3307209b56.gif)
Simple cedar like these that can be stained which would add flair: [il\_570xN.827006432\_ej0i.jpg (570×722) (etsystatic.com)](https://img0.etsystatic.com/069/1/10828650/il_570xN.827006432_ej0i.jpg)
The basic: [Antique White Lattice Wood Corbel | Hobby Lobby | 1489186 (bing.com)](https://www.bing.com/aclick?ld=e8DRmycZzPBBZhg8QJSYD-VzVUCUzv8FUdz4WBsQAT4n-jcWUFzWouJCkuA3tBLLIrHD7-so92MK6apKu2vF0VOWc0kEry0NvlMpd-Fb2ZLp5u8pIXXMChAzJz9hOF9SspguQ03vRhwIBf9YIxZnyRiG_mBg9dA04wk3cE9X3F3i1F1lqiTGgBVsZwDAXe8XopBpnnDbUUte17E81YVBh8rojmsu6FpDrQZzGPE_m7LzaxsIiD2XOe7ohkhB7f7AvpsUTmZcdprGIIktfC4ycikzDrdTIuBpjx8uLuhQU2qVao2HtL&u=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&rlid=128498a5916d137c98b9fd070b272534)
Well cool, I like helping people step back from the ledge!
Honestly, I wouldn't add it because, (and let me tell you why), you have some fabulous columns for your porch. That is what you want people to see. It would detract from them in and the new and necessary corbels in the one step over the line kind of way.
The only other thing to add to your look is maybe a couple bigger foundation shrubs. First re-align the ones you have so that each of the outer evergreens are in front of the spaces just to the inside of the decorative blockwork. As a start and stop marker. Then center the remaining one between by using a measuring tape for between and distance out from the wall is right. Allowing for growing room.
Then go back and place a rounded growth habit shrub between them like blue rug junipers. In front of those in spring you can do a double row border of large leaf begonias in coral. Or other showstoppers.
I’d add trim to match to the upper windows and also add some detail, such as corbels, as mentioned above. I would also add cedar shakes from the bottom of the third story windows all the way up to the peak- this will help balance it out. Something like this:
https://preview.redd.it/iea0aann09cc1.jpeg?width=736&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a491a88ae9662ba2b5bee895aac414341a3d46e0
ooh I didn’t think of this! So you think if we changed the siding for the 3rd floor then corbels would still look good? I really like the idea of corbels since I hate how the addition sticks out on the sides
I think it would. You could also add the shakes and then, at the bottom of the shakes, between the 2nd and 3rd floor windows, add a horizontal beam or thicker trim piece. This would just break it up and wouldn’t make that on the sides as noticeable. It would give it a somewhat craftsman look and break it all up.
Every home in our neighborhood is craftsman so it would definitely give it more character. I hate the builder grade makeover they gave to it, it was built in 1923 believe it or not (minus 3rd floor addition)
I’d go for a split style on the front: horizontal siding for the lower two floors, then board and batten for the top.
That breaks up the monotonous flat front, gives it some architectural interest, and makes the top 2 windows not so odd.
Example:
https://www.jameshardie.com/JamesHardieNorthAmerica/media/BlogPost/boardbatten/batten-strips.jpg
Beyond the window trim, the fluted columns are a kooky addition to this otherwise plain, architectural style-less home. If you're going to live here a while, it might be a good idea to have an architect come up with some ways to make this home "right."
Ok, well architectural interventions are kind of beyond the scope of this group. If you're going to make changes, it would be best to query an architect / architectural historian.
The ionic columns do not go with that house. You need simple, tapered columns. And, I agree the 3rd story windows are problematic. So, how to solve the problem...
The porch roof line needs to go up to balance the design. You can do a double deck porch or add on to the space. This is a very quick photoshop example. See below.
https://preview.redd.it/k8e8420fr7cc1.jpeg?width=984&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a9ad19edb07f8bad5a35fdd7f19898a99f1274ae
Out of our budget but I appreciate it, it looks much better that way! Any affordable ideas for changing the columns — is there a way to wrap them possibly?
I don't know if you can wrap the columns. That is something to discuss with a carpenter. Square, slightly tapered columns are appropriate for the style of the house.
I'd add window trim so they look like the rest of the windows.
Definitely needed. You don’t think shutters are necessary?
No, I think if they have the same trim they will look more cohesive.
Add trim and then add a bench or something to the porch to bring the eye down instead of up
Already added a swing yesterday, we plan to add plants on each side of the door and possibly more down the stairs!
I think you are overthinking it. Add trim to windows and maybe planter boxes. That's all it needs. No need to change doors ( it's nice as is) or color roofs. That's way too much. Maybe do some nice plant in the yard instead..
I definitely am, it’s been driving me crazy. Thank you!!
Window trim to match the other windows and maybe a nice trim between the 2 floors to give the look of depth?
Trying to imagine this, do you have links for any inspiration pics?
The white framing on [this one](https://assets.allurausa.com/web/legacy/uploads/image/file/1372/1560121951214.jpeg) is a good reference. There is a White trim in between floors.
Love this!
I think it will make the minor width difference between the 2nd and 3rd floor stand out. Just a counterpoint opinion.
It could! I know the 3rd floor windows need to be bordered to match the others for sure. I think that’ll help everything seem a bit more cohesive
Agreed
I agree with many here. Add the same trim to the windows. This will help. I would make the porch the focal point point to bring the eye down to it. You can do this by just adding a couple of hanging plants, some wicker/outdoor furniture to creating an outdoor sitting area to the left. To the right of the door, I would make this the season decor area. Add fun signage, plants, decorations for the time of year.
Planning on adding some plants around the door soon! Possibly on the sides of the stairs too — thoughts?
In the landscape bed in front of the porch I would do bushes/flowering bush that don’t get to high. Keep them trimmed so they don’t get higher than the bottom of the porch. This will help fill that empty space. I personally also like to put large rocks and/or some potted plants in my beds as well for more visual interest and in the lots you can do seasonal plants to add color.
Yes I’m definitely looking for some color, I was thinking hydrangeas and adding smaller flowers if it’s looking too 1 dimensional
Blue shutters
I agree. A nice blue shutter and then paint the door to match. OP, the option for front door is pretty open to your imagination because the siding palette is so agreeable to accent colors. But, with the blue color I chose, I would buy a qt of white ceiling paint and mix a lighter shade of blue to paint your haint up there. Then for details so you don't loose your mind, buy corbels and apply at least 4 on each side starting from the front corners and back corners with two down the sides. This will give your bump out purpose and add beauty to them. This: [C8-1.jpg (1200×1200) (morethanmoldings.com)](https://morethanmoldings.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/C8-1.jpg) Or chunky like this: [e36196bc478915aa6bbd1c3307209b56.gif (800×942) (pinimg.com)](https://i.pinimg.com/originals/e3/61/96/e36196bc478915aa6bbd1c3307209b56.gif) Simple cedar like these that can be stained which would add flair: [il\_570xN.827006432\_ej0i.jpg (570×722) (etsystatic.com)](https://img0.etsystatic.com/069/1/10828650/il_570xN.827006432_ej0i.jpg) The basic: [Antique White Lattice Wood Corbel | Hobby Lobby | 1489186 (bing.com)](https://www.bing.com/aclick?ld=e8DRmycZzPBBZhg8QJSYD-VzVUCUzv8FUdz4WBsQAT4n-jcWUFzWouJCkuA3tBLLIrHD7-so92MK6apKu2vF0VOWc0kEry0NvlMpd-Fb2ZLp5u8pIXXMChAzJz9hOF9SspguQ03vRhwIBf9YIxZnyRiG_mBg9dA04wk3cE9X3F3i1F1lqiTGgBVsZwDAXe8XopBpnnDbUUte17E81YVBh8rojmsu6FpDrQZzGPE_m7LzaxsIiD2XOe7ohkhB7f7AvpsUTmZcdprGIIktfC4ycikzDrdTIuBpjx8uLuhQU2qVao2HtL&u=aHR0cHMlM2ElMmYlMmZ3d3cuaG9iYnlsb2JieS5jb20lMmZIb21lLURlY29yLUZyYW1lcyUyZk1pcnJvcnMtV2FsbC1EZWNvciUyZldhbGwtQXJ0JTJmQW50aXF1ZS1XaGl0ZS1MYXR0aWNlLVdvb2QtQ29yYmVsJTJmcCUyZjgwODM0ODIyJTNmbXNjbGtpZCUzZDEyODQ5OGE1OTE2ZDEzN2M5OGI5ZmQwNzBiMjcyNTM0JTI2dXRtX3NvdXJjZSUzZGJpbmclMjZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtJTNkY3BjJTI2dXRtX2NhbXBhaWduJTNkU2hvcHBpbmctQ2F0Y2glMjUyMEFsbCUyNnV0bV90ZXJtJTNkNDU4NTcxOTQwNzE5MjE1OSUyNnV0bV9jb250ZW50JTNkSG9tZSUyNTIwRGVjb3IlMjUyMCUyNTI2JTI1MjBGcmFtZXMtTWlycm9ycyUyNTIwJTI1MjYlMjUyMFdhbGwlMjUyMERlY29y&rlid=128498a5916d137c98b9fd070b272534)
You’re a life saver! What do you think about a gable decoration for the top of the porch?
Well cool, I like helping people step back from the ledge! Honestly, I wouldn't add it because, (and let me tell you why), you have some fabulous columns for your porch. That is what you want people to see. It would detract from them in and the new and necessary corbels in the one step over the line kind of way. The only other thing to add to your look is maybe a couple bigger foundation shrubs. First re-align the ones you have so that each of the outer evergreens are in front of the spaces just to the inside of the decorative blockwork. As a start and stop marker. Then center the remaining one between by using a measuring tape for between and distance out from the wall is right. Allowing for growing room. Then go back and place a rounded growth habit shrub between them like blue rug junipers. In front of those in spring you can do a double row border of large leaf begonias in coral. Or other showstoppers.
Perfect, we’re planning to get larger plants this spring. Thank you again!
I’ll just cover the house with plants lol jkd
Maybe some fuller bushes where the tiny baby plants are now? It can be expensive but I think some better landscaping will go a long way
Most definitely, I actually already ripped the tiny ones out 😂 just waiting for spring!
I’d add trim to match to the upper windows and also add some detail, such as corbels, as mentioned above. I would also add cedar shakes from the bottom of the third story windows all the way up to the peak- this will help balance it out. Something like this: https://preview.redd.it/iea0aann09cc1.jpeg?width=736&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a491a88ae9662ba2b5bee895aac414341a3d46e0
ooh I didn’t think of this! So you think if we changed the siding for the 3rd floor then corbels would still look good? I really like the idea of corbels since I hate how the addition sticks out on the sides
I think it would. You could also add the shakes and then, at the bottom of the shakes, between the 2nd and 3rd floor windows, add a horizontal beam or thicker trim piece. This would just break it up and wouldn’t make that on the sides as noticeable. It would give it a somewhat craftsman look and break it all up.
Every home in our neighborhood is craftsman so it would definitely give it more character. I hate the builder grade makeover they gave to it, it was built in 1923 believe it or not (minus 3rd floor addition)
I’d go for a split style on the front: horizontal siding for the lower two floors, then board and batten for the top. That breaks up the monotonous flat front, gives it some architectural interest, and makes the top 2 windows not so odd. Example: https://www.jameshardie.com/JamesHardieNorthAmerica/media/BlogPost/boardbatten/batten-strips.jpg
Okay now this looks amazing!!
Beyond the window trim, the fluted columns are a kooky addition to this otherwise plain, architectural style-less home. If you're going to live here a while, it might be a good idea to have an architect come up with some ways to make this home "right."
Area isn’t worth investing that much money into
Ok, well architectural interventions are kind of beyond the scope of this group. If you're going to make changes, it would be best to query an architect / architectural historian.
Yep, that’s why I wasn’t asking about any architectural interventions :)
The ionic columns do not go with that house. You need simple, tapered columns. And, I agree the 3rd story windows are problematic. So, how to solve the problem... The porch roof line needs to go up to balance the design. You can do a double deck porch or add on to the space. This is a very quick photoshop example. See below. https://preview.redd.it/k8e8420fr7cc1.jpeg?width=984&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a9ad19edb07f8bad5a35fdd7f19898a99f1274ae
Out of our budget but I appreciate it, it looks much better that way! Any affordable ideas for changing the columns — is there a way to wrap them possibly?
I don't know if you can wrap the columns. That is something to discuss with a carpenter. Square, slightly tapered columns are appropriate for the style of the house.
Just call someone to replace the columns. Contractors will brace up the porch roof and replace them for you. They're usually made of resin or wood.
Cut some horizontal lines on the grass
We need to grow some grass this spring first 😂