10 Exterior Trends That Will Boost Your Curb Appeal

Taking A Less Is More Approach

While the motto is often used in regard to the interior of a home, the same can be said for the outside. Designer Jennie Holland abides by the rule of thumb to use no more than three ‘features’ on the exterior. “This includes paint colors and materials, each being calculated as a feature to keep the look restrained yet still interesting,” she says. This extends to landscaping as well. “Clean and smaller-scaled landscapes are the unsung heroes that add a refined elegance and the realm of curb appeal,” says Misso. “As the saying goes, ‘simplicity is the ultimate sophistication,’ and this rings true for the exterior.”

Adding Interest To The Roofline

While a whole remodel might not be in the cards, you can always consider upgrading your roofing material. “In our pursuit of timeless renovations, we’ve not only changed roof pitches (to be steeper), but elevated the facade with the introduction of textured cedar roofs,” says Misso. “A cedar roof adds so much warmth and character to a home regardless of the existing roof pitch.”

Give Your Front Door A Fresh Coat

“Rethink your front door,” says Jackier Mosher, co-founder of Dzinly. “Elevate the aesthetics of your home with traditional colors or make a solid statement with a vibrant, contrasting color,” she says. No matter what color paint you’re dipping your brush into, whether it’s a bold color or a neutral contrast, a fresh coat will do wonders for your front door. The affinity for bold outdoor colors took off during the pandemic when homeowners were looking for a creative outlet–and that hasn’t let up. We’ve already been seeing front doors that rival colorful kitchen cabinets and bathroom walls, but we’ll be seeing more statement doors and hardware in adventurous colors in 2024.

Mix Your Materials

Just as the interior of homes are transitioning away from bright white, so are the exteriors. Holland is seeing a nod back to classic, earthy materials and tones that we’ve traditionally seen and a mixture of those coming back into style. “Whether it’s brick, stone, siding, shingles, unique wood features, or a combo of several, I’m seeing these materials being used together on architectural details such as arches, extreme peaks, and even non-conventional lines for a layered look with lots of personality that will stand the test of time,” says Holland.

Find The Right Shutters

“Properly sized shutters are so important. On larger windows, make them as if they are functional and stack them back with tie backs, and the mid rail should line up with the muntin on the window,” says designer Sara Johnson. “Hardware like shutter dogs (tiebacks) and hinges are also important to consider.” If you don’t have shutters on your home’s front exterior, perhaps it’s time to make that change. Or if you do, consider a fresh coat of paint.

Keep Landscaping Natural

While clean lines and pristinely shaped hedges and garden paths are beautiful, they’re hard to maintain and can often look out of place. Instead, lean on natural and organic landscaping techniques with native flowers and plants, says designer Laura Hodges. This also helps with the maintenance of your plants because they’re already adapted to their environment—meaning you’re less likely to end up with dead flower beds.

Reconsider Your Porch

In the South, porches are like outdoor living rooms so they deserve a refresh, especially when they’re street-facing. “A fresh coat of paint or stain can do wonders, as can updating lighting. Layer up lighting to showcase historic architectural features. Hanging lanterns on the porch can match the pattern and design of the space and be a showstopper,” says Mosher. 

Brighten With Exterior Lighting

“Exterior lighting is an easy and effective way to update curb appeal,” says Katie Vance, designer and chief creative officer of Powell. “Choosing a fixture that is proportional in scale to the home is key. You can’t go wrong with a classic gas lantern from Bevolo.” While front porch lighting is important, the key to evening curb appeal means going beyond the doorway. “Illuminate your entrance and garden with spike lights and spotlight features beyond the porch like accenting favorite plants or trees,” says Mosher.

A lush, established landscape achieves so much curb appeal so why let it only be seen in the daylight? Johnson suggests moonlighting. “Adding lights to the tree tops and pointing them down, gives a beautiful ambiance where you can see the trees’ shadows on the ground—literally as if the moon was shining through the trees,” she says.

Think Again Before Painting That Brick

Timeless, unpainted brick is making a comeback in 2024. “Painted brick has been all the rage for the past few years and while I also view it as timeless in the correct application—there are few things more charming than a beautifully colored, classic brick exterior. I love unpainted brick paired with black accents for a modern approach,” says designer Lauren Sullivan of Well x Design.

Utilize The Front Yard

Johnson says adding an outdoor seating area to the front yard is a great way to maximize small lots. “This creates a family-friendly neighborhood and increases home values,” she says. A small table and chairs, bench, or pair of adirondack chairs add a welcoming feel to your front facade.