How do I add modern design to a split-level exterior?
5 years ago
I am redesigning my tired, awkward exterior. But I don’t know how to breakup this flat space. I would like to use 3 colors and mix the materials.
any suggestions?
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5 years agolast modified: 5 years agoRemove the shutters. Is that a red brick at the bottom? I assumed it was when I picked some colors to consider.
I like the high contrast of the colors and includes a great red for the trim around the windowa and garage door, which is right next to the brick.
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Ready for a challenge? Split-level needs you (so do I)
Comments (22)You guys have been busy, overnight! Thank you for continuing to help me think this through. GauchoGordo - I am not into a full open concept for this house. At night, when you look in from the outside, passersby can see straight into the LR/DR (one reason I would rather move the LR space to the back -- I can move around in my PJ's) To answer your question about keeping a LR, I would like room for a few comfy chairs/love seat + chair and a coffee table -- sort of a "landing" area for when guests first arrive. Laughable -- I like your 2nd plan. And removing or adding windows is acceptable to me. Something I feel I will have to do, anyway. Williamsem and Junco -- this reminds me of Breezy's plan (which I love). No room for an island in the K, right? Bpathome -- Those windows are pretty awesome -- because they are in the LR, and I don't spend much time there, I don't get to enjoy them or the wonderful light that comes from them. The front left corner of the center wall is supporting the roof on that side of the house, but I wouldn't mind burying it in the ceiling.... Sena01 -- I've never thought of adding a wall there! Interesting idea that I need to spend some time digesting. You all are goooood! I'm loving your creativity. Thanks (and I'd love to see more!)...See MoreSplit-Level Exterior Remodel - Opine on our design
Comments (7)The porch area will remain as is and already has the board and batten style, we'll just give it a fresh coat of white paint. I hear you on the columns, I suppose I should have been more clear. We trend towards modern but don't mind the craftsman-type style as well since some homes on our block are craftsman. Thus we thought the columns would be a nice touch regardless. Garage doors - seem to be in good condition so really wasn't looking to replace but I'm open to refinishing them in a gel-stain perhaps. I've seen some folks do a wood colored gel-stain the looks decent so I can try that. Our front door is hidden but we replaced that as well and need to decide on a color to match the exterior....See MoreColonial Split level Exterior Refresh
Comments (7)Yes, definitely considering the option of selling the house instead. You bring up a good point about project overruns. I’ve budgeted 15% more to handle any unforeseen construction costs but will still need to take into account renting a place during the construction period so I know I will still need to save up more money for a rental. Thanks!...See MoreSplit level exterior makeover
Comments (11)Great article, JudyG! So many of the points they made are spot on. In fact, we *are* using this split level to form a multigenerational household. My parents own the house. My husband and I (and our two kids) are buying it from them. We are going to live upstairs, and my parents are going to live in the in-law apartment (an addition, which is not pictured in the photo), downstairs. The layout is ideal for us. I really appreciate your ideas about the exterior. I think that I'm going to use your idea of painting the brick and the shingles the same color, to create a cohesive look and not draw attention to the "split" features. The shutters are definitely going to go. As for the color choice of the paint: I have been told that the roof is super old, and in need of replacement. My parents are also strongly advising that we replace all the windows, because they, too, are very old and drafty. So with so many projects/expenses coming up, I want to view this as an opportunity to make some thoughtful design choices and update the look of the house. We haven't met with the window vendor yet, or even decided if we want to go with wood vs. vinyl windows. I just got excited by the idea of being able to use a color other than white, to give the house a cool, well-designed look. But I'm not actually sure if black will look good in this particular house. Thanks again for all your suggestions and comments! I'll keep you updated!...See MoreRelated Professionals
Castaic Home Builders · Milford Mill General Contractors · Waianae General Contractors · Westerly General Contractors · La Mirada Furniture & Accessories · Moraga Furniture & Accessories · Northbrook Furniture & Accessories · Bay Shore General Contractors · Williamstown General Contractors · Saint Petersburg Siding & Exteriors · Waterville Siding & Exteriors · Baton Rouge Architects & Building Designers · Decatur Painters · Seekonk Painters · Bon Air General Contractors
PRO5 years ago
5 years ago
White trim, white around the windows. SW Attitude Gray. I think you could do a lot with landscaping. We can't see the entrance and that is usually the focal point to the front of a house.
The right side of the house dominates as it is more forward and two story. For that reason I decided not to paint the gable in another color. It would just draw more attention.
SW Night Owl, if you are willing to paint the brick
- 5 years ago
PRO5 years agolast modified: 5 years ago- 5 years ago
5 years agoAre you changing your windows? Is not, I suggest painting the trims white to make it more uniform. What kind of siding did you choose?
I'd paint the door a different color to make is pop more. Landscaping is also a gamechanger.
5 years ago
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