Here’s a little architectural secret: An exterior design can be drawn up by the best architect or designer in the world, but the wrong paint colors can ruin its appeal. Excellent architecture cannot necessarily mask a poor color palette, especially when it comes to residential properties.
If you are in the process of acquiring your dream home, you must know that exterior design is everything. Here are some key tips for choosing the perfect paint colors to help you achieve a gorgeous curb appeal.
Look for inspirations and resources
The internet has a wealth of resources when it comes to timeless colors and exterior design that just radiates modern and distinctly 2021. The platform Pinterest is your best friend when it comes to looking for ideas and inspirations. You can also do a drive-through in neighborhoods that you think are stunning. After gathering various inspirations from different sources, create a mood board and make sure that you can see everything as one big picture.
Find the common denominator between the exterior designs you gathered, and chances are that’s the color palette or vibe that you want to go with. Consult with your architect if you think those colors make sense for the exterior design they created or will create.
Consider the location and size of the property
It’s important to understand where the structure is located and how big it is relative to the land you own because it will help determine which colors can make them pop out and look better. For example, if your house is built far away from the main street or the curb, opting for a lighter color palette will make the house seem closer.
The size of your lot is significant as well, because for example, if your house is on the bigger side but it sits on a smaller lot, opting for a darker color palette can make the house seem smaller, and the lot, bigger. The rule of thumb is lighter colors can make the structure appear bigger and more expansive, while a darker color palette will achieve the opposite. So look at your house and lot and think of what goal you’re trying to achieve.
Do some swatches and observe them at different times during the day
Once you’ve narrowed down your paint color options to a shorter list, do a patch test on the structure itself. Put your different choices side-by-side so you can see which ones look best. Come back at different times during the day to ensure that you are seeing it in different types of lighting so you can see which ones are your favorite.
Take several photos, ask your family and friends to provide a second and third look, and contrast and compare the choices. The rays of the sun, the weather, and shadows can greatly affect colors, so make sure not to rush this process. Give it a week or two before settling on the final colors.
Honor the natural architecture or history of the home
If the home is on the older side and comes with a lot of history, consider a color palette that is accurate to the property’s rich background. Hire a pro to slowly peel away paint layers so that the original colors can be revealed. If you’re starting from scratch, Consulting your architect is also important because they have a lot of ideas about how to make the home look its best, according to how they designed it.
Consider how the neighborhood’s exteriors look
Don’t copy how your neighbors’ homes look exactly, but you can take a look at the curb appeal of their homes so that you can choose a color palette that somehow complements theirs. Look for colors that can make your home distinct from others, but not in a way that will make it clash with nearby homes. When choosing a color palette for your home’s exteriors, consider your surroundings is key because you want to complement, blend, and even properly contrast with your neighbors.
Design is all about intent, and not just throwing things at the wall and hoping that something will stick. Make sure that your design choices are compliant with zoning regulations as well.
Paint colors will make or break your home’s curb appeal. It can instantly communicate with your guests or just people who drive by what kind of homeowner you are—your style and sensibilities. Don’t just go for what is trendy; opt for classic colors that can withstand time, wear, tear, and harsh elements, and you can maintain your home’s curb appeal for a long time.
Meta title: Choosing he Perfect Paint Colors for Your Home’s Exteriors
meta desc: If you are in the process of acquiring your dream home, you must know that exterior design is everything. Learn some tips on choosing the perfect paint colors to help you achieve a gorgeous curb appeal.
