No tags yet.
Welcome to our design blog where you will find curated design,
styling, and sourcing tips from the designers at Leiht Design.
Near or far, big or small, our team of skilled designers
can help you create spaces you will love to be in.
Check out some of our work here!
Summer is approaching! That means people are getting outside and noticing a few things about their yard or home exterior that need sprucing up. Curb appeal needs to be a part of your thought process when designing or re-designing your home. This is especially important in areas where visitors first see your home (hence - curb appeal!). Allow your visitors to make a first impression that is carried through to the interior of your home.
Let's have a look at a few ways to instantly improve your home's curb appeal.
#1. Take care of your lawn.
Photo: Instagram - @alex_nerovnya
If you want to improve your curb appeal, this is the first place to start. It may seem simple, but so many people neglect their lawns and - it shows. Drive down any street and the yards that aren't taken care of stand out. Don't forget to weed-wack and trim the edges of your lawn. If you want to go a step further, try mowing in different directions.
#2. Add some fresh plantings.
Photo: @XOMrsMeasom
Adding plantings around the front of your house give a nice transition between your home's exterior and the grass. Find plants that tie in with your home's style, environment, and your personal aesthetic.
#3. Upgrade your front door.
Photo: If this is your photo, please let us know so we can give you credit!
Your front door is a very important detail to consider in your curb appeal. A new or updated door can dramatically change the perception of your exterior. Consider painting your door black, a great staple color, or updating the entire door...it's worth the investment! A black door can also raise the value of your home!
Curious about raising the value of your home? Read our post about it here!
#4. Lighting. Is. So. Important!
Photo: McGee & Co
A simple pendant or sconce added to your exterior makes this front entryway look designed and intentional. It serves as a wayfinding device for visitors and highlights your front door and your porch's best features. Having light above or to the side lets your visitors know what you are welcoming them into their home.
#5. Don't be afraid to decorate.
Photo: If this is your photo, please let us know so we can give you credit!
Decorating is a super fun way to soften the entry to your home. Approach it like you are putting together vignettes on a shelf or table inside your house. Here are some great ways to do this:
- Add potted plants
- Door mat
- Have a seasonal display
- Accessorize your outdoor furniture with outdoor-grade throw pillows and blankets
- Have visible and legible door numbers
- Hang a wreath on the front door
Be careful not to over do it! The front door is the focal point and it shouldn't be taken over with too many plants or decor pieces. You want your visitors to easily know where they are supposed to go!
Check out our whole post about front door decor here!
#6. Clean slate. (Powerwash!)
Photo: If this is your photo, please let us know so we can give you credit!
Sometimes a good power washing is just as effective as a fresh coat of paint. You should clean the exterior of your home at least once a year, and power washing is the most effective way to do this. If you don't like the color of your house, of course you can paint it! When selling your home, a fresh coat of paint can help raise the price.
It's always a good idea to go for a well-maintained and fresh look! A clean and tidy exterior goes a lot further than an adding more plants, furniture, and decor.
#7. I bet you didn't think about the garage doors!
Photo: If this is your photo, please let us know so we can give you credit!
The garage door - an often overlooked but oh so important feature to the exterior of your home! And yes - it can be a feature, too. A garage door upgrade actually shows the highest return on investment out of all the improvements you can make to your home! Matching your garage door(s) to your front door is a great place to start.
#8. If you have a porch, furnish it.
Photo: If this is your photo, please let us know so we can give you credit!
Outdoor furniture is another way to show your guest that they are welcome. A seating grouping can add some subtle charm, and allows for some good ol' front porch sitting. This particular arrangement is simple, but its contrast to the white siding and floral accents make it work. It doesn't have to be extravagant. Remember to avoid clutter! Keep it simple and keep it functional.
#9. Use hardware as an accent.
Photo: Most Lovely Things
A quick hardware swap out is an inexpensive way to make a big impact. Choose a hardware color that contrasts with your siding and door to really make it pop. This also goes for metal finishes in your lighting, and house number sign.
#10. Pay attention to walkways.
Photo: If this is your photo, please let us know so we can give you credit!
The most obvious wayfinding detail. An overgrown or unattractive walkway can instantly ruin curb appeal. Keep your walkway's edging trimmed and free of obstructions. The material is also important. Look how charming this brick walkway is! Pavers, bricks, and stone can give the exterior some polished personality. Even without these materials, a walkway can be made beautiful with additional greenery and well-kept landscaping. It's all about drawing your visitors up to the front door.
No matter where you live, your home has the potential for great curb appeal! Simple improvements like the ones above will increase the value of your home drastically and elevate its design. Let the existing features of your home shine by highlighting them with some easy improvements.
Happy designing! Have a lovely weekend and a nice Mothers' Day!