Don't underestimate the importance of curb appeal. Delight neighbors and give guests a great first impression of your home by dressing up your porch.
If a fresh cottage look suits your style, choose a color scheme of neutrals and soft sea tones. Here, we made the concrete stoop really stand out by giving it a couple coats of aqua paint. The original white door was an appropriate color but lacked interest, so we attached strips of wood for a board-and-batten look. Vintage and weathered accessories complete the cottage theme.
Traditional style doesn't have to feel stuffy — this porch is understated and functional. We started the makeover by purchasing a new Craftsman-style door. It has a realistic wood-grain look, a hefty oil-rubbed bronze handle-set, and a stunning leaded glass window. These qualities then inspired the choice of colors and accessories for the rest of the entryway — from the stained stoop to the linear mailbox to the leaded glass light fixtures.
Contemporary style often features a monochromatic color scheme punched up with a pop of color. This front entry includes stainless steel accessories located on and around a bright orange door. Straight lines and geometric shapes are hallmarks of contemporary design, as exemplified with the porch lights, mailbox, and planters. Finally, we added a knocker and doormat made with natural stone to contrast the smooth textures of the metal and glass.