Last updated on March 2nd, 2022
Every homeowner wants their home’s exterior to look appealing. However, designing the exterior of your home can be an overwhelming process of choosing the right color, material, and architectural details.
To begin designing, remember a stunning house cannot be built in a day － it is the result of days of planning and following the basics of exterior design rules. Here are 7 tips to design the exterior of your home.
1. Decide on the purpose of the house
To start with, before you finalize the design, you need to understand the purpose of the house you are building － think about your and your family’s requirements. It might not sound relevant at first, but having a connection between the interior and the exterior of the house is of utmost importance. For instance, if you are an artist, then you will require a house with large windows for ample sunlight to paint/create.
2. Strike the right balance between shape & symmetry
We don’t need to overemphasize the importance of the balance between shape and symmetry in achieving a well-designed house. A house that follows these two important principles will carry immense visual appeal. You either go for a symmetrical design where the main door is centrally located with the windows flanking both of its sides or try to achieve this balance through roof lines placed in equal distance.
3. Think about materials & textures
The exterior of a house doesn’t provide much of a decor option to play around with, which is where materials and texture come into play. And, that is why you need to be careful while choosing the material and texture. While choosing, ensure that the material is sturdy yet visually appealing.
4. Agree on the colors
Choosing the right color for your home exterior is of utmost importance as it needs to stand the test of time while concealing the flaws of the house. One of the easiest ways to choose colors for your exteriors is by first deciding on the tone and then moving two shades lighter than the actual shade. Ideally, your house should have 2 shades – a lighter shade for the body, and a darker shade for the trim.
5. Plan the entryway design
The entryway of your house creates the first impression on your guests. Use intriguing features and lighting fixtures to fortify the overall appeal of your house. You can even think of installing a custom-made door for your home.
6. Remember that lighting is key
Outdoor lighting is vital both from an appearance standpoint and security during the night. In case you want to go beyond the ordinary, consider installing unique lighting fixtures that make your house stand out. Remember to ensure that you pick lighting fixtures that complement your interior decor style. For example, if you have a modern home then opt for sleek steel lighting fixtures, whereas for a traditional home opt for enchanting lamp-style lighting.
7. And, last but definitely not least – give it a durable roof
Choosing a sturdy roof is imperative. There are several roof materials available, depending on life expectancy and budget. Opt for clay/concrete tiles or slate as a roofing material. However, remember these materials are very heavy, and not every house can take that load. As an alternative, you can choose asphalt shingles, terracotta, and other lighter options too.
Have fun designing your dream abode, everyone!
