Actually it's been awhile since I started this posting. I got new windows, they are taupe. It blends with the area painted underneath the window. I've planted native shrubs and perennials in the front garden - it gives a more ''natural'' look, with various green groundcovers instead of mulch. I'm a fan of native plants. Gives the house a casual look.

It seriously is not that hard to rip all of that veneer cladding off of that wood frame house and start over. I have done it with brick veneer. A big dumpster, a decent air compressor, a couple of hoses, a couple of air chisels, some 5 gallon buckets and a wheelbarrow, and a half a class of high school kids and it’s done in less than a week. Even with a learning curve. It’s just sweaty and loud. Demo isn’t that hard. Then start over.

awm03 - That design is really amazing, thank you! capist - Thank you for your mock ups as well. I am a very visual person, so seeing these examples really helps. And the more I think about it, the more I agree that incorporating a subtle Craftsman vibe is probably the right approach. I have always loved the farmhouse look, but I'm realizing that it just doesn't work with our house. And because our house already has such wide room pitches, it already has a slight Craftsman feel. I am surprised to see that I like a darker color better and I think a more earthy tone is better because it works better with the red brick. I am really liking some of these brown tones. A new, wooden door is already on our short list and I love this example. I am a big fan of double doors, so we plan to go that direction instead of side lights. Windows are also in our plans too, but probably a next year project. So my thoughts is that we may get a start this year with paint and landscaping (and MAYBE a new door) and then we can do some other upgrades, like windows, next year. It's worth noting that the top windows do a decent side trim around them already, but you can't really see it in my original pictures because the trim and stucco are basically the same color. If the trim were painted a bright white, it would stand out a lot more, especially against a darker stucco color.

After some thought and soul searching this evening, I decided to paint a color that I love while also showing respect for the Victorian style (and will fit in with the neighborhood). I love how you worded it @liasch "goodbye gift" to the home. I need to rethink my strategy but I will say that I've learned a lot about color, architecture, and most importantly exploring the creativity that you all shared with me. Where should I go from here? Should I create a new post? Should I include all the house colors around me? When looking for a professional designer for services, what are some questions I should ask so I know I won't get scammed or be disappointed? Thank you everyone who contributed to this discussion. I've learned a lot here!