This is the side of the house. Awnings will be black and more of a clean line rather than the scalloped edges. Also, off the french doors we are extending the deck and adding a pergola. So, the french door awning will be gone. The pergola will be a dark stained wood, I think.

All exterior light fixtures will be black and spanish-y.

This landscaping is already gone, this is a pic before we owned the house.

Thank you SO MUCH for helping me. We do want a "strong" color, not a beige/tan color. We want something that is very 70s spanish ranch, though!

Here is a link that might be useful: {{!gwi}}

After googling photos of Spanish-style homes and gardens -- most of the houses seem to be colored in whitewash, wheat-tones or stone colors.

BUT -- if you prefer a deeper tone -- I do vote for a deep olive green -- especially with your white accents around the walls. Also -- olive green would work so well with the orange tones in the roof AND with black awnings.

The main reason that I can honestly say that olive green would work -- is that is the color of the wood siding here! LOL! And our brick walls have a very orange tone -- similar to your roof.

You could add a large lantern above the garage area -- and see if the doors would work in the olive green. Trying a faux-paint technique on such a large area might be a huge job. Perhaps someone would kindly photoshop some ideas for you.

I do vote to keep the front door in white -- fresh -- and would instantly become a sole focal paint for your facade. Right now -- the viewer's eye is drawn to the garage doors.

Add pea gravel-and-orange-or terracotta-toned concrete paver walkways and large patio areas all around the house. Add colors with large pottery jars filled with colorful flowers and foliage. Add black wrought-iron furniture.

Jan at Rosemary Cottage

Oooh, I love Jan's suggestions... The pavers, pottery & black wrought iron would be the killer touch. Olive green, black awnings & wood garage door -- sounds great.

thank you both for your comments and enthusiasm!

Yes, I have been doing some googling also, and found the same colors you have, Jan. I like those colors if there is tons of landscaping and archectual interest, but doesn't seem right on my house as it is now. We plan on doing LOTS more landscaping, but it will be a slow process.

Deep olive green? *deep breath* I mean, I **LOVE** olive green. I really do. I was leaning more towards a softer grey green. If I went dark green I would definitely want brown undertones...right?

Would love to see a pic of your house if you would, please!

large lantern....centered above the garage door? Why am I having trouble envisioning that?

As for the faux wood grain...I have had friends that have done it, they hired someone and it looks pretty awesome! I thought maybe I could get those black hinges to go at the edge of the door, and do a subtle carriage door look. I feel like if the house is painted a light color(tan/beige), that may not work. But if I go a dark olive as you suggested (and especially if I get a vine growing around the garage door) I think the faux wood grain could blend pretty well.

Yes, I forgot to mention the trim/front doors and side french doors. I am all out of sorts about that, too. If I go a dark olive, I cannot imagine such a light trim. But not sure what color trim if not light? Maybe more of a very light tan...like a dark cream?

We have "firerock" laid in all the landscape areas around the house. It is mainly rock made up of golf ball size (or slightly smaller) rocks of terracottas, charcoal greys, sandy oranges etc. Our circular driveway is going to be a brick of the same mix of colors.

We have TONS of leftover authentic chicago brick that makes up the pathway in front of the 3 stall barn (that's it, to the right of the house in the 1st pic, has matching roof and we will paint it whatever color we paint the house) and we are going to do a winding path from the pergola/deck around to the pool area at the back of the house.

So yes, you "get" the look I want! Thank you!

below is a pic of the firerock (you can't really see the color well, but you will get the idea.) This is a "hammock" we created...right across from the side of the house and where the pergola will be. Slash pines and bald cypress. Anyway, this rock is also next to our house where we will be landscaping,. It kind of goes in and out, to and from our house in different spots (did that make sense?)

Here is a link that might be useful: {{gwi:898695}}

Gosh, sorry so dang wordy! I am afraid anyone who opens this thread will promptly close it when they see my babbling! Sorry!

You really need to take updated pictures. It's silly to post old ones and say "this is gone, etc...". An informed decision and meaningful advice requires allinformation.

Ah! More grayed-green; gray ....

1) Benjamin Moore: "Sussex Green" HC-109

2) BM "Cromwell Gray" HC-103

3) BM "Gloucester Sage" HC-100

4) BM "Acanthus Green" 472

Here is a link that might be useful: bellacor.com -- example of wall-mount outdoor lantern above garage

Maybe you have an issue with reading comprehension? I said that the landscaping is gone now. The other things I mentioned are future plans, after painting the exterior that is the reason for my post/question. So I am not sure what your "etc" is for after you quoted me saying "this is gone."

Here is a pic of the south side of the house again, taken 5 minutes ago, just for you. Shocking how different it looks without that unruly hedge, eh?

Read my second post again to see what our future plans are for this spot after we paint.

Here is a link that might be useful: {{!gwi}}

Ahhh, Jan! I am going to that site. Just have one more picture for redecor so I can hear all about his/her meaningful advice...I am sure it is going to be great!

Once again, no hedges. That's the big difference between the first pic and this one. Yes, there is a black asphalt circular driveway there now, will be colored and stamped in the next few months, color will be similar to the firerock color (multi colored). I didn't think it necessary to see it in it's black and unfinished state, but here it is anyway because it was requested.

Here is a link that might be useful: {{!gwi}}

WOW, I just LOVE that link you posted! I really like the scrollwork for the wall...that makes me like it more than just a fixture itself. Did you search for something with a specific name to find that? I would still want a light fixture on either side of the garage, too...yes?

Because of the black light fixture above it, I really feel that a dark (faux wood) garage door would look good...do you? ESPECIALLY if I went dark w/my paint color.

And YES, those are the grey greens I am talking about. Why am I so scared to make that leap? Do *YOU* think I should lean more towards a dark olive gree with brown undertones?

BTW, resale is not an issue. We are both S Fla natives, all our family is here, DH has a business here...just wanted to throw that out there. I mean, yes I know that you can never say never, but this home was purchased to be something that we hope our grandkids will visit us in one day. Our DD is 11. :)

dirtymartini, apologies for the crudeness of this mock-up. I just use the Paint applet that comes with Windows (and not very well at that).

Still, if you squint your eyes and stand back from your monitor, you can get an idea of what green w/black awnings could look like on your house. Also, if you move from side to side or so, the color will shift so you can see a darker or lighter gray/green. I didn't know what to use for a trim color, so just picked something innocuous.

Isn't that outdoor light that Jan picked out fabulous?! Wow!

I played around with various colors, and I really don't like greens with your roof and landscaping. A green house just blends into the landscape. Mustard is good, as is a teal blue.

yeah, I am not liking the green. I am in your same situation here in Miami. I want to paint but I keep liking my present color: BM HC9. But, I want to change - I just don't know to what. Here is my house:

awm-are you the one that used to have a ranch style house in FL? I think I remember that. Thank you for the mock up...my DD just walked in and was like, "WOW, that's so cool!"

suero and yvette-yeah, I guess that's my problem, I am trying to talk myself into the green color, but in my heart, I am unsure. Like you, yvette...I want something DIFFERENT and I guess I feel if we are going to spend money and time I want to veer away from the present color...but if the present color WORKS, then maybe I just need to stick with a varying shade of it. Your house is BEAUTIFUL by the way. And yeah, if you would ask me what color to paint it, I would NOT suggest a green grey. So, that is very telling!

yevette-can I see more of your house? Do I see black shutter to the right of the pic? What part of miami are you in? I am a 3rd generation native, grew up in Horse Country, lived there 25 years!

Hi dm, we had a contemporary ranch in New Orleans once, if that's what you're remembering.

How do you like these greens?

I love this greenish white with dark green shutters. Don't think it would work with your roof, but maybe the concept can be tweaked -- off white with a hint of color + accent:
{{!gwi}}

I am near the Falls.
The shutters are dark navy but I want them black also.

If you're in a hot sunny climate I think the darker colors would not be the way to go. I think a traditional white, on the warm side, on your style home looks great and love it with those terra cotta tile roofs. Wrought iron accents and great landscaping. Nothing boring about it, imo.

Why don't you go by South Dixie Highway and check out the new South Miami Pharmacy. I love the color combination. I tried asking what colors they used but I couldn't get an answer. I think it's SW Macadamia, Softer tan and Moderate white. But, I could be wrong. See if you like that.

Let's see:

Possible neutral tones:

1) Benjamin Moore "Raccoon Hollow" 978

2) BM "Golden Straw" 2152-50

3) BM "Linen White" 912

4) BM "Seashell" OC-120

5) BM "Going to the Chapel" 1527

6) BM "Vellum" 207

7) BM " Shelburne Buff" HC-28

Here's one that's actually a terra cotta color. Very nice.

Here is a link that might be useful: Terra Cotta house color

How odd! The last picture, the greenish-white one, didn't show, although it did in "Preview Message." Oh well, enough greens...

There are a range of pretty terra cottas, per spring-meadow's suggestion.

I know you want color (so please ignore if you so wish), but I think yours would look really good with a white base and a lighter tone trim. Kind of like they've done here:

{{!gwi}}

Thanks again. So much fun to get ideas and suggestions from everyone. I love the differing opinions, and I love how it makes me *think* and have a reason to choose what I will eventually choose.

lyfia-Well, that house is simply GORGEOUS and if I had a little more architectual interest going on here, I think it would suit my house. But my house is just...I dunno...kind of rectangular. It doesn't have those different pitches of roof and rooms jutting out. That is the main reason I don't want to go to such a light color. I can't make a statement with the house itself (architectually) so I want to make a statement with the color. I do appreciate you sharing the picture, and I DO agree with you, that house is GORGEOUS!

awm-Thank you! I honestly *only* like the very dark green. How cute that theu have a tiny little overhang over the electrical box, too funny! The others are too..hmm, my husband would say "minty" and I don't know if that's the right word. The original mock up you did is closer to the color I am thinking. Thank you for sharing those greens.

spring-That is indeed a pretty color! I might have to investigate something more rusty/orangey. I would probably like it a little darker...but I did consider your point...I think a dark color night retain/absorb too much heat here in SoFla. Thank you.

Teacats-I will look into those colors. I am going to the paint store today. Thanks!

Yvette-such a pretty house, and gorgeous landscaping! Again, I see what you mean, I cannot imagine another color on that house. My DH is in Miami often for work so he will go by that Pharmacy. I googled but found no images of the pharmacy itself. I *did* find SW Macadamia. What is funny is, in googling, I found someone that discussed that it has a green undertone, so maybe that would be the best of both worlds for me! I am going to the SW store later. Thank you so much.

Hey, dm. I did a mock-up with different garage doors, just because playing with your house is more fun than paying bills today! The double doors were the only image I had, but at least you can get an idea of wood tone, Spanish style garage doors. Also, I eliminated the horizontal band that goes around your house because I think painting it out would make your house look less chopped up. I didn't try to play with the house color, just new garage doors, "trimmed" shrubs, & a de-banded facade. I tried adding Jan's pretty light, but the tiny image didn't paste on well. What do you think?

ohhh, you sure are fun when you are bored!

Before we talk about the garage...yeah, that trim around my house. I believe it was added after the fact, like in the 80s. I think it can be removed. Should I? And if I do, should I also remove it from around the windows?

About the garage...I think *darker* wood would look better, and also it will look good when the house is painted a darker color. I love being able to see my house with different ideas implemented...so cool. Feel free to paste an image of Tim McGraw in the window, shirtless and holding a glass of wine. LOL!

Hey...so...that lantern that Jan posted....how can I google to find more of those? I mean, the lantern that had the detailing on either side to lengthen it. I showed it to my DH and he LOVED it. Then he saw the price. :(

(hmpf, I am sure Tim McGraw would not balk at the price.)

I would leave the trim around the windows and arch but would remove the rest.

I wouldn't go through the expense of removing the trim, just paint it the same color as the walls so it doesn't jump out. Painted the same color as the wall, it will still give a little architectural oomph to your house, but in a quiet way. Notice the white stucco house has banding too (had to look hard for it, didn't ya!).

Definitely leave the window & archway trim, use a trim color though.

Yep, darker garage doors would be better.

Tim McGraw -- a Google search isn't turning up any such images. You'd better contact him to correct this problem.

re Jan's Lovely Lamp, you can try searching on wrought iron wall lighting exterior, or Spanish revival (pricey antiques usually) or Mediterranean exterior lighting. I think Jan found the best light at the best price though.

yvetee and awm-you both agree about the trim, that it should either not be there or at least blend in. I think I will paint it same color as the house. Leave it around the windows, as you both said. Thank you.

awm-Wow, good eye...yes, I did indeed have to look for the trim on that house! Ok, that's decided, then. That is an easy decision, because it makes sense.

You guys are going to think I am a nut job, but I went to SW today, got a bunch of colors. For dark colors, I like 6130 Mannered Gold

6131 Chamois

6123 Baguette

7699 Rustic City

On the same sample as Macadamia6142, I also like Basket Beige 6143. Those two don't jump out at me, tho.

There is a house nearby and I really like the color, the style is similar to mine (although a newer build) and the roof is the same color. I drove by and snapped a photo of it, but I couldn't really stop, plus I was afraid people would wonder why someone was outside snapping photos of their home. So I did a "drive by" LOL. I also got their address and sent them a SASE and a note asking them their paint color! Hope they respond!

Here is a link that might be useful: {{!gwi}}

I hope redecor comes back now that I provided him/her w/the pics he/she needed to provide me with that meaningful advice.

Love that Mediterranean villa, lyfia. DM, I do think you could use white (a bit warm not stark). With the trim tinted as the one above has, a great lantern over the garage like teacats linked, green or aqua/teal awnings with iron supports. The vines on the house (flowering? I'm picturing red). Those all add the needed details. Your roof makes the white look special. But then again, if white is not for you, it's not a good choice.

Linked is a simple structure. It does have the second story but the landscaping adds a lot. Palms have rich color and dramatic lines against the white.

That's a beautiful color on your neighbor's house but I don't think it really goes with the roof color. I think it brings out the pink in the clay which is what clashes. Maybe it's all the glare on the roof in the photo and looks differently in person.

Here is a link that might be useful: Simple structure in white

Good input, spring. I will say, the roof of the neighbors house is the same as my roof, I am 99% sure. I looked back on the pic I posted and yes, there seems to be a glare. If you can make out my roof color in the photos (not sure it is a "true" depiction) then THAT is the color that would go with the color of the neighbors house. Anyway, I am sorry, now there really *is* too much " imagine this" going on in this thread.

I am just bummed cuz I thought the neighbor's house color was a slam dunk, and EVERYONE would agree on that one. I am starting to freak out a bit!

As for the white...as much as I love that pic you posted...i really, really want a color. I feel strongly about it. That house has more architecture (as you already know and stated) and also that roof is way prettier than mine, with the varying shades.

Oh, update: I told my husband (not asked, TOLD, lol) that we were only painting around the windows of the house a different trim color, that we were painting the other trim the same color as the house. He is ADAMANT that we will have a trim color. He said for a big house, he would agree. But he feels the trim elongates the house and makes it look bigger. He is putting his foot down on this one.

Thanks again for all the opinions and input. Please add something if you are so inclined, I really enjoy all this!!!

Ask the experts around here but, I think the trim chops the house in two. JMHO

I disagree with your dh. The trim makes the house look sqauttier as it breaks up the wall horizontally so the wall height looks shorter. Painting it out would be better from that perspective and give it back a look of normal height.

I wonder if your quest for color is made harder because your house with the right landscaping and a soft white would look great with a trim color around the doors/windows and dark faux wood on the garage door and give the spanish villa look. Whereas a darker color is more along the trend of the Tuscan style that is popular in the US.

Thank you both. I think I will start a new thread about it. My husband is open minded and he loves that I come onto this forum, because 99% of the time he agrees with the general consensus on here. He seemed pretty adamant and now I hope that he will be able to be swayed and not stand by his decision simply because he is stubborn. (Yvette, he is also Cuban...you live in Miami...you know what I am talking about re: Cuban men! LOL)

lyfia-are you saying that since my house is so bare now, I am feeling a NEED a color, but when all the landscaping is done, maybe I won't feel that way? And you know, I don't want anything "faux tuscan." At least "faux spanish" goes with the 70s, which I am trying to stay somewhat true to. Also, here we go again with my husband having spanish heritage, and my grandfather was born in Spain, so we want to kind of go in that direction. We don't want a mexican hacienda, we don't want a tuscan villa, we want to have a nod to Spain in there.

I agree that the horizontal trim piece chops the house in two. Why not see what it looks like painted the same as the siding? You can always paint it white again if you don't like it.

well, we plan on painting it a lighter shade of whatever house color we choose. Like...if we choose 6123 baguette...we would just go up 3 or so selections on that same sample. Right now it is an off white, kind of creamy.

I think I need to let it go...I was going to start another thread but I mentioned it to DH again and he seemed kind of insulted. Te feels THAT strongly about it. Weird.

I would suggest when you do paint the house that you paint the whole house first with that strip painted out so he can see it without and paint that piece of the trim last as then you can see how it would look without and with it.

Well what I was trying to say is your house does lean towards the spanish revival and you keep saying you want spanish and not tuscan, mexican etc. and really what is spanish color theme tends to be white or a very light color that reads white with a darker trim color such as brown, or more very muted colors. Landscaping makes a huge difference in how a house looks too.

What I'm wondering is if you really have settled in your mind what you want the house to be or if you really need the house to be one particular style. Many color will work for your house as long as you pick something that works with the roof color. Maybe it is your mentioning spanish that throws me off.

BTW if you look at the picture I posted it is a very simple style except for the tower and the other items are things your house has or will have too. You have arches, you have the curved wall, the raised trim, you're adding a pergola (not a porch like in the house shown). You could on your gable sides add corbels either dark stained wood or faux looking wood like you're planning for the garage door.

If you look at a spanish villa - they tend to be white, with tile roofs, mainly boxy. Some have arches, some have railings that are often white and look like concrete formed (don't know the correct terminology).

I guess I would ask yourself do you want the spanish look, or does it really matter and should you just go with a color that you like and not worry about trying to keep to a particular style?

YesWe are out of town right now and drove by a building that was painted a dusty white with slightly darker trim and black awnings and the same color roof as ours. We turned around to get a better look. DH *really* likes it. I just feel like the black awnings look too harsh on the white, where it may look better on a very warm gold/mustard.

Well, I appreciate everyone's help. I know I am pretty indecisive, and that can be annoying (my DH is going nuts, poor guy!) but I sure do appreciate you all helping me work through this in my mind.