Ha ha! Want to know something funny? When I first saw the yellow house, I thought how nice and refreshing those rich colors looked, then I read the post. So, obviously, that look is not for you. Based on what you have told us, you are, er, conservative (doesn't have to be boring), and a bit more traditional. That said, you seem to be dismissing the advice to repaint the front door out of hand, but IMO that will give you The Most Impact, and for the least $$! Please reconsider. A pale blue or gray that plays off the white and the green colors while do much to brighten the entryway. Let's talk about how to hide that hose. You can either a) remove it when not in use (never gonna happen) or b) replace the hose with one that matches the paint color of the house or c) move the spigot to the driveway side, this being the most obvious permanent solution but also the most expensive, possibly necessitating tearing up the front walkway and replacing it with either new concrete or pavers. AND you could landscape. Landscaping is a process that involves a few key steps: defining your needs and setting your prioritites (as with all house-related projects) and, next, choosing a style or theme, based on your personal likes/dislikes. Before we go there, when it comes to specific plant suggestions, do you know what zone you are in? That will determine what plant material is hardy to your area, if you choose to limit yourself to (mostly) hardy plants. How is the drainage, since you will be planting close to the house, how and where the water goes is especially important information. What direction does the house face? That will determine how much sun or shade the area gets. Finally, ask yourself what is the mood you want to create? Do you have any inspiration pics? We need to know what you envision in the Big Picture. Then we can help you reach that goal.

Hi Jan, I actually do have a consult with an architectural firm today to discuss 'the plan'. I wouldn't dream of touching anything that requires professional precision like hardscaping. I was merely asking for some ideas so I don't go in blind; hence I said 'tweaks and large projects'. Also, I can do some tweaks on my own; I don't believe painting trim or hanging house numbers requires anyone else other than myself.

I don't like the dark paint. With your light roof and light stone it looks like someone tied a dark green ribbon around the top of your house. A lighter color would be an improvement. I dislike the planters and would remove them if possible. I would remove the rail if it is not needed for safety. It is probably original but it makes the door seem inaccessible You can buy a full view storm door and paint it and the house door the same color. I love your lamp post. Do you have a porch light? I made an amateurish image of a lighter house with no planters. Do you think the stone is original?

You have a very charming house! But you are correct, it needs something. If this was my home I would add tons of white trim to the exterior. Big trim on the corners and around windows & doors. I’m not fond of the circular part above your front door. I would remove it. I would then install a different siding in the 2 large peaks and have a big piece of horizontal trim separating the 2 sidings. The siding within the peaks could be scalloped, or board & batten, or smaller and vertical, there’s lots of options out there. Also remove the storm door (I’m one of those anti-storm door people). Also, I wouldn’t go too crazy with landscaping. What you already have will grow and fill in.