This update covers many changes to our home’s exterior since we painted the brick white last year with a breathable masonry paint. That project transformed the house and remains my favorite makeover to date, but the exterior felt unfinished after the paint went on. Over the past year we’ve added a new path, installed an awning, lowered and replaced the porch lights, refreshed landscaping, and tackled a handful of smaller improvements—plus a few remaining projects are still in progress.
Before diving into details, it’s worth remembering how dramatic the change was. When we painted the brick white, some friends and family didn’t even recognize the house—my dad texted me in all caps last fall asking if we’d moved because he saw a photo and couldn’t believe it was the same place. That reaction still makes me smile.
These recent photos were taken a few days ago, so they show how the exterior looks now. For comparison, a photo from last fall highlights the updates more clearly. We felt the area around the door looked flat from certain angles, so we planned a modest awning to give the entry a little more definition—nothing as large as the old portico we removed when we painted the house, but subtle and intentional.
We ended up ordering an 8-foot awning from a UK manufacturer because it matched the look we wanted and was significantly less expensive than local custom options. Many local quotes came back two to three times higher than the overseas ready-made product, so we paid the extra shipping and received a beautifully finished piece. It arrived in a large wooden crate—affectionately nicknamed “The Coffin”—and installing it brought the front facade to life.
One detail I appreciated about this awning is the smart design: a hidden drip edge and a slight slope route water out the sides rather than letting it pour directly on anyone entering the door. The company has experience making and installing this exact model, which gave us confidence the piece would perform well over time rather than relying on a one-off local build.
Removing the old oversized portico felt risky at first, but we haven’t missed it. The original overhang was a dominant feature and, although it came with the house (and its railings found new life on our duplex), the simpler front now reads more classic and balanced. We still get packages left by the garage overhang, and we enter and exit mostly through the garage, so function wasn’t compromised.
We also added a new tree on the left side of the yard to balance the existing dogwood on the right. After losing a second dogwood a few years ago, we planted a river birch this fall—a tree that seems to thrive in our neighborhood and will be beautiful once it leafs out. I’m excited to share spring photos when both trees are lush and green.
Front beds received some subtle updates too. Existing plantings filled in a bit, I trimmed several spherical hedges so they look less like oversized ornaments, and I snuck in three peonies I found at a big-box store. They’re tucked into a small bed where they’ll be more noticeable when they bloom; if they perform well I’ll probably share a lot of photos in spring.
We planted a white hydrangea on each side of the steps, but deer damage in summer proved they’re vulnerable when in full leaf and bloom. Despite trying many deterrents, the local deer remain persistent. Still, I can’t help dreaming about a row of white hydrangeas paired with boxwoods—so I’ll keep experimenting and adjusting the plan over time.
The new front path, which we discussed on our podcast, was another major improvement. We used bluestone for the walkway and landing and are thrilled with the result. Bluestone offers a timeless look and was more affordable than some other natural stone options we priced locally. Installed bluestone typically runs in the range of $10–$13 per square foot, including material and labor, so getting multiple estimates helped us make an informed choice and find a contractor we trusted.
We widened the steps before laying the bluestone to create a more welcoming approach. That extra work cost about $450, and it was worth it—the expanded stairs now match the landing width and feel gracefully proportioned. We also corrected some yellow discoloration on the brick risers by priming and repainting with the appropriate breathable paint, which eliminated the staining and achieved a uniform match with the house.
Last winter we installed larger lantern-style wall lights. After patching the brick where the old portico connected, we repositioned the lanterns so they align with how lights are placed throughout the neighborhood—centering the fixture on the door’s horizontal mid-rail provides a balanced, traditional look.
What’s next: we’ve decided to add shutters again, but not in black. We ordered louvered shutters inspired by tonal examples we love, and they’re on their way. Painting them may wait until temperatures are suitable, but I’m eager to see how they round out the facade. We’ll likely add operable hardware similar to what we used on the duplex for a finished appearance.
Overall, the front yard will keep evolving gradually. The hedges still need some refinement, and I’m not ready to give up on the idea of hydrangeas, even if I’m constantly outwitted by deer. Small updates over time—paths, plantings, shutters, and lighting—have added up to a more composed, welcoming exterior that feels cohesive with the white brick. I’ll share more photos as the landscaping fills in and the new details settle into place.