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Posted by Melissa Lynn Galland on Oct 25, 2017 8:00:00 AM
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The exterior of your home is an opportunity to make a strong first impression. Whether it’s fitting in with the aesthetic of the neighborhood or standing out as one of the more distinct homes on the block, the exterior design and materials you choose are important considerations.

As you go through the custom home design process, think about the following exterior trends and what might work for your style preferences.

1. Elaborate Entrances

The front door is a major factor in boosting the curb appeal of your home. Adding details such as sidelights, doors with accent windows, and brightly colored doors can take the front entry from plain to pleasant without a significant investment. Entry porches also provide the opportunity to add character with details such as columns and planters.

2. Statement Fences

Whether you want a little privacy, more security, or a noise barrier from a busy street, selecting the right fence is important. However, functionality is not the only factor to consider. Because it might be the first thing people see, think about the height, shape, and color of your fence and how it will impact the overall look of your home. One of the latest trends is to punch it up with interesting patterns or textures. Whether you want simple elegance or a more artsy character, your fence is part of the picture when designing exteriors.

3. Arts and Crafts Detailing

It’s the little details that make a home, and the Arts and Crafts style is full of them. Multiple materials, color variations, and cheerful trim are hallmarks of the style. Other common characteristics include porches with columns and elegant exterior light fixtures. Many of the Adair Homes floor plans (like The Tamarack and The Lincoln) can be built in the Craftsman style.

4. Durable, Elegant Siding

Vinyl siding has been a popular material choice for years because it is affordable and requires little maintenance. However, more elegant options such as James Hardie siding are becoming the top choice for homeowners who want durability and easy upkeep, but with a more luxurious feel. As part of our commitment to quality, Adair Homes uses only James Hardie siding in every home we build.

5. Understated Colors

One of the hottest exterior color trends is leaning away from bright colors and more toward subdued tones such as greys, browns, and taupes. This doesn’t mean your home has to look dreary. In fact, combining these more muted colors with white or light-colored trim can really make your exterior pop.

6. Statement House Numbers

Perhaps one of the most affordable ways to add a custom touch to the exterior of your new home is with the house numbers. Clean, simple metal numbers evoke a modern feel. Hand-painted or carved wood numbers have a totally different vibe. Whatever look you’re going for, a little thought can make a big difference.

7. Interesting Walkways

You don’t have any control over how the sidewalk looks, but you do have the ability to customize the walkway that leads to your front door. Many homeowners are steering away from the plain look of poured cement and opting for paving stones in various sizes and patterns. Complemented with flowers, shrubs, and other ornamental plants, an interesting walkway can quickly boost curb appeal.


The professionals at Adair Homes can help you select the exterior designs and styles that best match your preferences and your budget. Contact us today to get more information or schedule a free consultation.  

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