Adding Curb Appeal
Creating a first impression starts before people ever enter your home. These simple changes will make your entrance inviting!
1. Spruce it up
Start with a clean slate, remove EVERYTHING from the front porch or patio. Spray or wipe down everything, including doors and windows (even shine the door knocker and kick plate.)
2. Decorating Style
The front porch not only welcomes visitors to your home, it also provides a preview of what's to come inside. Just like any room in your home, it should express your personality. If space allows, select a table and chairs that reflect your style. Making your entry visually appealing sets the mood before entering the sanctuary of your home.
3. Doormats & Rugs
Don't forget the key element in decorating a porch, the doormat. Most visitors look down at their feet before entering someone's home! Seeing a door mat reminds visitors to wipe their feet. When yours becomes worn or faded purchase a new one. For porches with sitting areas, an indoor/outdoor patio rug works great. A rug works to define the gathering area and will pull an outdoor living space together.
4. Furniture for the Patio or Porch
The amount of patio furniture you need will be determined by the space you have. What do you plan to use the space for? A place to sit and relax, a place to entertain or to watch the world go by? When selecting furniture, keep in mind the scale and quantity of the pieces. You don't want to purchase a large set that you don't have room for. Maybe a stand alone porch swing or a small table and two chairs would create the space you desire? When planned correctly, the front porch or patio can become enjoyable living space added to your home.
5. Home Decor in the Outdoors
When decorating don't forget the accessories that add character, including door art or a wreath, plants stands, vases, candles and wind chimes. Keep in mind the maintenance that will be required, for example potted flowers need regular watering. Be sure to add your personality to your space, because it is all about you and your home. However avoid "cluttering" the space with too much stuff. Too much of anything and the space will lose it's visual appeal.
For assistance decorating or accessorizing your home contact Independent Celebrating Home Designer, Donna Frazier at 336-209-2133.