@ worthy Thanks for your insights. We discussed the possibility of adding transoms above the bedroom doorways to bring more light into the hallway. The concern was the expense of adding more height to the second floor. A solar tube (not visible from the street) might be a cheaper option, although I always worry about roof leaks. I have mixed feelings regarding a basement laundry. I like the separation from the living spaces to minimize noise and potential water damage. However, I agree that bringing laundry up and down flights of stairs can be annoying (this is our current situation). At our next meeting with the architect we will reopen the discussion of laundry room placement with the options of: 1) keeping it in the basement; 2) moving the guest bedroom to the basement to make space for a laundry room on the second floor; and 3) using the suggestion of @MrsPete to install a dumbwaiter. Regarding the house footprint, we have tried to be as efficient as possible with the space available. With a narrow city lot (80') in the historic district (zoning requires two story) the house footprint is constrained. We also really enjoy the backyard for gardening and kids play and do not want the house to swallow the entire lot. Overall, I think we have achieved a good balance of a nice size home (3,000 sq. ft.) with most of the features we desire, that also blends into the existing historic neighborhood (the newest house on the block is 100+ years old).

I should have mentioned this before, but if you ever want to spend money on new doors for your garage, check out French Porte garage doors. We changed to those 12 or so years ago on our 1960 ranch. It made a world of difference on the look of the house. They are more expensive than regular doors, but what a change they made! There are also retro garage doors some of which might be cool. Until then, paint will work just fine! eta: we were posting at the same time. Love that door color, too. Like Wythe Blue, but more saturated.

I like the grid'ed option with the opaque if the privacy is a must.

Ann sorry I wasn’t more clear. I actually meant what colors do you currently have on you house now...not the possible new door colors. I really like your current color scheme that you have on your home. As I said I wouldn’t change the door color but maybe do the same color in gloss with the kick plate