Neglecting Outdoor Lighting
Incorporating the proper types of outdoor lighting will work wonders in enhancing your home’s curb appeal, explains Kerrie Kelly, the founder of Kerrie Kelly Studio.
“The right lighting can completely transform your home’s exterior, especially at night,” she says.
However, this means removing anything that appears outdated or is poorly placed, she explains, noting that such fixtures will contribute to an uninviting entryway look. The best types of lighting to invest in, according to Kelly, include sleek lanterns, subtle path lighting, or uplights that highlight landscaping.
As it pertains to bulb type, go warm, urges Jade Joyner, the founder of Metal + Petal.
“Warm-toned lighting highlights architecture and adds instant charm after dusk,” she says.
Using Dated Paint
Maybe it’s time to commit to repainting your home—you never know just how much a new, fresh color or coat of paint will transform your exterior.
“A paint color that feels dated or clashes with the architecture can make a home look smaller, older, or out of place,” Joyner says, adding that the effect is made worse when the paint is peeling or faded.
Not Paying Attention to the Front Door
Do not underestimate the power your front door has in shaping people’s first impression of your home. Kelly urges homeowners to upgrade anything about the door that is so-so.
“A faded paint color, worn hardware, or lack of decor can bring the entire façade down,” she says.
It doesn’t take long to repaint your door or even lay down a new doormat, she adds, noting that these changes “can create a welcoming, high-impact moment.”
Decorating With Kitschy Accessories
Skip the garden gnomes and other kitschy accents, insists Rebecca Ward, the founder of Rebecca Ward Design. Say goodbye to the flamingos, flags, and the like and make room for planters or elevated seasonal wreaths instead, the designer suggests.
Not Tending to Your Landscaping
If you haven’t been keeping up with your home’s landscaping, now is the time for that to change.
“Landscaping that’s either too wild or too sparse can throw off the balance of the home’s architecture,” Kelly says.
She recommends keeping hedges and trees trimmed and shaped, and layering in a mixture of plants of various heights. She also suggests flanking a walkway with some container gardens to boost curb appeal.
As it pertains to types of plants to avoid, Ward recommends skipping roses in the front yard, which she says can look frumpy and dated—especially when they’re neglected.
Structured greenery that doesn’t require much upkeep, like boxwood or lavender, is her top pick instead.
“It gives a refined, modern look while still feeling fresh and welcoming,” Ward says.
Covering Your Front Door
Ward is averse to adding a screen or security door over the front door.
“It might feel practical, but it’s one of the least welcoming first impressions you can make,” she says.
The designer is all for skipping these fixtures and landing on a pretty front door color and some stylish hardware instead—it’s really all you need, in her view.