Simple and Practical Home Exterior Design Ideas to Enjoy This Summer

As summer approaches, it’s the perfect time to update your home’s exterior design. This could enhance its curb appeal, and create a more welcoming outdoor living space. There are impressive outdoor lighting design ideas, ways to upgrade your porch, and more. In this article, we’ll discuss some simple and practical ideas for improving your home exterior this summer.

Attach An Awning

This could provide shade and shelter from the sun and rain while adding a touch of elegance to your backyard. Awning materials come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, based on your preference and the overall theme of your house. You could attach an awning above the patio area or over windows or doors. The most common awnings are made from canvas or aluminum materials, which are resistant to extreme weather conditions.

Installing an awning can be relatively easy, but seek professional assistance if you’re not confident. You may live near Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. If so, there are awnings sold in Houston that are high-quality and retractable. They can extend your indoor space and provide a great area for entertaining. Awnings also promote energy efficiency by reducing indoor temperatures, and reliance on air conditioning units.

Update Your Outdoor Lighting

This can add curb appeal, and improve safety by illuminating walkways and entrances. LED lights are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and come in various styles. Solar-powered lights are an eco-friendly option that saves on electricity costs.

Consider installing low-voltage landscape lighting to highlight your property’s best features. String lights can add a cozy ambiance to patios or porches, while spotlights can be strategically placed to deter burglars. Motion sensor lights are a smart option for security purposes since they turn on automatically when someone approaches.

Give Your Front Door A Makeover

Your front door is the first thing people see when they visit your home, so it’s important to create a good impression. One easy suggestion is to paint it in a new color. Choose a bold hue that complements the rest of your home’s exterior, or opt for something more subdued if you prefer a classic look.

You could also add some decorative elements, such as a wreath or seasonal decorations. This can be an affordable and fun way to add some personality to your home’s exterior and show off your style. You could also consider installing new hardware on your front door, such as handles and locks. They can provide an updated look that adds both aesthetic appeal and functionality.

Upgrade Your Patio

Adding an outdoor rug can add some extra color and texture while providing a comfortable surface for bare feet. It can also protect wooden flooring from marks and scratches. When purchasing, opt for materials that are weather-resistant and easy to clean, like polypropylene or jute. Additionally, choose a rug that fits the available space without overwhelming it.

An outdoor fireplace can create a cozy atmosphere on chilly nights. It can also serve as a stunning focal point for your outdoor space. You can choose anything from wood-burning fire pits to propane-fueled fireplaces with built-in seating. Before buying, consider the size of your patio and whether you prefer a permanent or portable option. You could also look into buying or making a firepit, or purchasing an outdoor grill.

Modernize Your Porch

Why not add some trendy and comfortable outdoor furniture? Look for pieces that are both functional and stylish, such as a sleek patio sectional or a cozy swinging daybed. Don’t forget to add some colorful outdoor pillows and rugs to complete the look. Some unique lanterns or pendant lights could create a warm and inviting ambiance in the evenings. Consider adding dimmer switches so you can adjust the brightness, based on your mood.

Also, consider updating your porch’s flooring with durable materials like composite decking or natural stone tiles. They’ll give your porch a refreshed look, and make it more long-lasting. These materials can withstand harsh weather conditions, and they’re easier to maintain over time. Finally, adding potted plants or hanging baskets can bring life and color to your porch.

Paint Your House Exterior

This option can rejuvenate the look of your home and protect it from weather damage. When choosing colors, consider the architectural style, roof color, landscaping, and neighborhood aesthetics. Lighter shades like beige or white reflect heat better, reducing energy consumption during hot summers. 

When painting your house exterior, always prepare the surface properly. Wash it thoroughly with soap and water or a pressure washer to remove dirt and debris. Repair any cracks or holes in the walls before applying primer, as it helps the paint adhere better. High-quality paint will be more resistant to chipping and peeling than the cheaper options.

Improve Your Walkways And Driveway

It’s always good to have visually appealing pavement leading up to the main entrance. You could upgrade your walkways with stone, brick, or concrete pavers for a more elegant look. You may also opt for decorative edgings, such as small pebbles or colorful stones. For driveways, you can choose from an array of materials. These include stamped concrete, asphalt, or gravel that offer both durability and aesthetic value.

It’s also important to keep your walkways and driveway clean and free of debris. Regular sweeping and pressure washing will help maintain their appearance. It’ll also ensure safety for visitors coming in and out of your home.

Convert Your Garage

This could add value to your property, creating an extra room/living space. Whether it’s a home office, gym, guest suite, or playroom, there are endless possibilities. You’ll need to consider insulation, ventilation, and the structural integrity and stability of the garage. You may additionally need to make some plumbing or electrical changes.

Once these factors have been addressed, you can design and decorate the new living space according to your needs and taste.

Don’t forget your roof and landscaping, and any possibilities to extend. When the work’s finished, you’ll have transformed the exterior of your home. It’ll have an improved appearance and functionality and may have added to the value of your house.