I always say that the darker the better.The contrast really classes up a house I have had 3 brick houses with one brick being a really orangy brick. I cant remember the brand aND COLOR BUT have found that this one which is a shingle/shake & has black, charcoal and brown was the absolute prettiest and got compliments all the time. I disagree about the too busy look for your brick. your brick is NOT a busy brick at all and with the addition of those colors I suggested and maybe changing the shutters to black, you will add so much to the resale value of your house someday. Its a very classy look. Good luck.

I love what the architect/designer has created. Have you seen and liked their other projects? If so, don't question their work too much. They might swerve, taking what can be extraordinary features to more ordinary. I think it's all in how you choose to look at the house. I see it as more of a charming, storybook cottage than most of the houses we see built today. Its quirks and irregularities are its charms. That's what's great about old houses. Or, say, the old places in Europe. As mentioned by dlm2000, other design elements can be used to bring attention to the door and that side of the house. The layout of materials and colors used, moldings and other detail work, landscaping, etc. I also like the blank space on the facade because spots like that can be used decoratively, to advantage. Maybe they could show you some more comprehensive drawings, with color and landscaping added, if you're unsure. You've got a beautiful and really charming home. I'll be following your blog if I can find it!

Dark grey will work with the colours she has and open up lots of possibilities for an updated palette when that is desired.

Duplicate post what BTW we all dislike.