Mackenzie has been writing for brick&batten for four years, and most of her exterior design knowledge comes from renovating her own home. She purchased a log home that was stuck in the ’90s and the previous owners were unable to keep up with exterior maintenance. From reimagining the landscaping and hardscaping to revamping the porch and logs, Mackenzie and her family approached the entire project DIY-style.
In her free time, Mackenzie enjoys cooking and spending time with her family of six on their farm, which includes cows, chickens, rabbits, dogs, and cats. She has been writing for 15 years and has explored a variety of materials from food writing to lifestyle pieces and, of course, virtual exterior design.
A mixed material house exterior is all about contrast, balance, and personality. Brick with siding, stone with wood, bold colors with soft neutrals — each pairing adds depth and character. The right mix can highlight architectural details, ground a home in its surroundings, or create a striking modern statement. Whether you lean classic or contemporary, ...
Coastal paint colors are the perfect way to bring that serene, beachy feel to your home. It doesn’t matter if you live by the shore or just want to evoke the tranquil vibes of coastal living. From creamy whites to weathered grays, these hues transform your home into an inviting, relaxed retreat. Read on to ...
A porch shouldn’t just be a place you walk through on your way inside — it should be a destination in itself. With the right rustic front porch design, even the most basic entryway can become a cozy, welcoming retreat. A few thoughtful choices, like warm wood tones, layered textures, and comfortable seating, can completely ...
I used to think that cedar siding was synonymous with the beautiful Cape Cod homes on the East coast. Cedar shingle siding and white trim is an eye catching combination; however, there are a variety of ways to use cedar type cladding. Different wood cladding may be used on everything from mid-century modern homes to ...
Choosing the right door color for white houses can completely transform your home’s exterior. A white house is a blank canvas, allowing the front door to take center stage — whether you want a bold statement or a subtle, sophisticated touch. The right color adds personality, enhances curb appeal, and ties together your home’s overall ...
Sometimes, you just know when your home’s exterior needs a refresh. Maybe the colors have lost their vibrancy, or the style no longer reflects your vision. The tricky part? Figuring out exactly what direction to take. When Dawn L. started feeling like her mid-century home needed an exterior boost, she turned to brick&batten for expert ...
A smaller home can be an opportunity to refine your space, invest in high-quality details, and have a small house exterior design that feels effortless and inviting. Thoughtful architecture, low-maintenance materials, and smart outdoor upgrades can keep your home looking polished without adding extra work to your plate. With the right approach, a compact footprint ...
If you want to sell your home quickly — and for top dollar — curb appeal is everything. Buyers make snap judgments before they even step inside, and a well-maintained exterior shows that the rest of the home is just as cared for. At brick&batten, our designers can help implement a few strategic updates — ...
Flipping a house is all about maximizing value — and the right house flipper ideas can make all the difference. Buyers don’t just want a house; they want a home that feels stylish, functional, and move-in ready from the moment they pull up. That’s why curb appeal and smart design choices are key to a ...
