Easy Ways to Boost Curb Appeal
Little touches add up [1]
Container plants, a pretty ruffled wreath, summery blue paint on the door and a rocking chair all create a welcoming front door area.
Overall update [4]
New sconces and matching aged-bronze hardware, a coat of golden yellow paint, easy-to-apply house numbers and a pair of easy-care planters gave this front door a thorough update. Click here [5] for more details on this project.
Hang a window box [8]
Pretty posies in a sunny window box make a cheerful hello.
Adorn a door [12]
Amp up the personality of your front door with a wreath. Change it with the seasons, or make sure it's a classic for year-round beauty.
Sturdy statement [15]
Solid and safe, railings also add beauty when they are dressed as smart as these. Pristine white contrasts sharply with the wood steps and darker door.
Mail order [18]
Country or classic, choose a mailbox style that matches your home's architecture. Large house numbers ensure first-time guests find you easily. Pretty plantings at the base finish the look.
Say hello [21]
Here, the hanging container says it all. Flowers along the walk and in the container finish the look.
Add a splash of color [24]
The front door is the perfect spot for a jolt of color that might otherwise overwhelm your home.
Upgrade hardware [27]
Changing out the hardware—even in subtle places like on shutters—enhances a home's exterior. Renewed locks, bells or knockers revitalize a look.
Stair-step plants [30]
Container plants climbing the steps draw eyes to your door. Art tucked in adds whimsy.
Light the way [33]
Just because lighting is basic doesn't mean the lights have to be. These elaborate beauties blend form and function.
Address yourself [36]
Let everyone know where you are. This bold sign is easy to see even among lush plantings. Or hang the numbers under a light by the front door or on the mailbox.
Add antique shutters [39]
Two antique shutters add shady style to this sunny front door. If you don't have antiques, use paint to re-create the look.
Screen door charm [42]
A wooden screen door adds old-fashioned charm, but the spicy hue keeps the look from being tame.
Personal welcome [45]
Welcome mats come in all shapes and sizes. Make sure the one you put down fits your style. This wood one is engraved with the homeowner's name, others come with initials, images of favorite pets, and more.
Happy hellos [48]
Hanging artwork in bright shades says welcome in a happy way.
Walkway lighting [51]
Walkway lighting adds a soft glow at night while safely leading visitors to your door. If you use solar versions, there is no wiring.
Capitalize on your name [54]
The fun font used as the base for this initial says a lot about the homeowner's personalitiy.
Lead them on [57]
A plant-lined path marks the way to your door. Subtle curves invite lingering. Flagstone, brick, pavers, even stamped concrete reflect a thoughtful approach to design.
Stake a claim [60]
Personalizing crockery with names communicates a pride of ownership.
Cheery trim [63]
Plasterwork or trimwork painted bright colors adds sweetness to a cottage home.
Work of art [66]
For a scene-stealing door, these homeowners had custom stained-glass work installed that matches the home's craftsman style. Window clings can reproduce the look for much less.
Trompe l'oeil [69]
A little brushwork and you've got house numbers that add depth to your door.
Charming details [72]
Contrasting green trim and log-lattice porch railings add charming cottage character to this cabin's facade.
Patriotic flair [75]
Red, white and blue goes with every home style!
Ornate touch [78]
For added elegance on an old door, add an ornate screen or carving as the homeowner's did over this mirrored door.
Get a handle on it [81]
This detailed handle might not match your home style, but there is one out there that will. Don't settle for blah.
Add classic touches [84]
Symmetrically placed lighting brightens your stoop. Urns underneath echo the classic styling.
Bright number [87]
A window with geometric designs suits this beacon of welcome. Large house numbers underscore the playfulness.
Personalize the look [90]
This artsy crab hints at the owner's love of the sea, the bunting a military bent. Let the art you display tell visitors of your interests.
Monogram your door [93]
Use your initials to monogram your front door. Not only is the initial on the planters and hanging, it's also etched into the glass.
Get with the swing [96]
A pretty rose-covered arbor and swinging gate beautify property while providing an element of privacy.
Fun door knocker [99]
A simple upgrade is to add a door knocker reflecting your hobby.
Extra elements [102]
Birdbaths, fountains, bubblers—water elements add a cooling touch of nature to a sunny front.
Sense of place [105]
Lakeside or seaside, country or city, adorning your door with icons of the area give it a sense of place.
Sentimental statement [108]
Etching the glass with a significant date—marriage, homeownership—adds a sentimental element.
Classy details [111]
A formal pendant light and gold house numbers set a classic mood. Make sure yours suit your home's style.
Ease into it [114]
A profusion of blooms in what is usually an unused easement charms. The arbor and picket fence frame the look. (Check with your city or town for any restrictions on easement plantings.)