Before & After: Real Exterior Makeover Examples
By: Alexis B.
If you ask us, nothing beats a good exterior makeover. There’s something so satisfying about seeing a tired, outdated home transformed into a fresh beauty. Whether you’re listing your home on the market soon or just chasing your dream curb appeal, these before-and-afters are sure to spark some serious inspiration.
What Counts as an Exterior Makeover?
You might be wondering what exactly we mean when we say exterior makeover. Usually, a full makeover is more than just slapping on a new coat of paint or planting some flowers. An exterior makeover can include things like updated siding, bold paint color changes, modern lighting, custom front doors, new garage doors, shutters, landscaping, and other architectural enhancements that add personality and style.
And no, you don’t need a wrecking ball or a reality show crew to make it happen. Here’s the proof.
Classic Brick to Custom Curb Appeal
This original red brick ranch-style home had solid structure and symmetry, but the curb appeal wasn’t quite there. Our design gave it a facelift with painted brick in soft white with sleek stone accents and fresh landscaping.
We added copper lanterns for warmth and contrast, and the front porch quickly became a focal point. Adding dormers gave it a more custom, high-end look to create a Pinterest-worthy home exterior. The real-life result turned out to be glowing, warm, and downright gorgeous.
Midwestern Traditional to Timeless Chic
This two-story home had tons of potential. With so much white, it was clean but lacked character and depth.
Our makeover kept the crisp white paint but added texture and charm with wooden garage doors, moody blue shutters, and classic black lanterns. We also opened up the front porch area to make the home feel more welcoming.
The new look is more elevated, but still fits nicely in the neighborhood. Still classic and warm, but with a sharper, more pulled-together look.
Modern Mid-Century With a Twist
This hillside home came with a great view, interesting lines, and gorgeous landscaping, but that beige-on-beige had to go. We decided to give it a whole new look with moody charcoal paint, sleek wood accents, and a streamlined cable railing. Now, the new design feels modern without trying too hard, and complements the surrounding landscape instead of blending into it.
We also gave the garage door a refresh and added more texture and color to the plants to make a bold and beautiful statement.
Dated Brick to Dreamy Simplicity
This dated home started with deep green shutters and an underwhelming entry. Now? It’s ready for you to walk up and come home.
We swapped the red brick for a soft greige paint, upgraded the front porch, and added some low-maintenance hardscaping to give it a polished look. The simple black shutters and lighting also add the perfect amount of contrast, living proof that subtle changes can still pack a big punch.
Coastal Cutie Level-Up Exterior Makeover
This beachside bungalow was full of charm, but needed a little more curb appeal to match its surroundings. We gave it a crisp new look with creamy siding, a pop of teal on the front door, and clean, modern garage doors. We even kept the landscaping mostly intact, just adding more definition to the look.
After adding in some copper planters and slatted wood accents, this home went from boring to breezy, balanced, and beautiful.
What Makes These Exterior Makeovers So Good?
So, how do these makeovers work to make these homes shine? Easy – they bring out the best in the home’s existing structure. We didn’t try to force trends or erase a home’s personality. Instead, we focused on timeless materials, cohesive color palettes, and upgrades that make the whole exterior feel more intentional. Whether it was a simple paint change or a total overhaul with new architectural elements, the key was starting with a solid vision.
It’s also a reminder that you don’t have to do it all yourself. A virtual design helps you see what’s possible and lets you make confident decisions before you commit to a paint color or hire a contractor. If you’re not sure where to start, you can see some more before and afters here.
Tips for a Successful Exterior Makeover
Feeling inspired? Here are a few things to keep in mind before diving into your own exterior makeover.
1. Consider Your Home’s Architecture
Not every trend works for every house. A good design respects your home’s structure and enhances what’s already there. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel, just give it better rims.
2. Don’t Underestimate Color
A fresh paint palette can completely transform your home’s vibe. Go warm and earthy for a cozy look or crisp and contrasting for something bold. The right color combo sets the tone for your entire exterior.
3. Include Your Landscaping
Even the most stunning home can get lost behind overgrown bushes. A clean, layered landscape with the right plants can make your home feel finished and welcoming. Think of it like your home’s haircut.
Final Thoughts: Ready for Your Own Exterior Makeover?
If you’ve got a home that’s stuck in the past or just feels a little underwhelming, an exterior makeover might be exactly what you need. At brick&batten, we help homeowners across the country reimagine their exteriors with customized virtual designs that fit their home’s architecture and their personal style. The best part? You’ll get a clear plan before picking up a single paintbrush.
Our expert virtual designers are here to help. Reach out today to get started.
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