The 1970s colonial homes, once symbols of sturdy craftsmanship and elegant design, often fell victim to dated aesthetics and worn-out exteriors as the decades passed. However, a timely remodel can restore these architectural gems to their former glory, and even elevate them to modern standards of comfort and curb appeal.Let's delve into the magical transformation of two colonial homes, before and after their exterior remodels in the 21st century.
Before the makeover, both homes shared the common struggles of their era. Peeling paint, sagging roofs, and overgrown landscaping hindered their initial charm. Yet, with careful planning and execution, these homes embarked on a journey back to their once-proud stature.
Recapturing Classic Charm: The Before and After of a Federal-Style Colonial
The first home, a classic Federal-style colonial, boasted symmetrical proportions and intricate details. Yet, time had taken a toll, making it blend into the neighborhood rather than stand out.
The solution? A back-to-basics approach that respected the home's historic roots while addressing its functional needs.
Freshening Up the Facade
The most dramatic change was the restoration of the home's handsome facade. Fresh, period-appropriate paint in a rich, yet understated hue, accentuated the home's symmetrical lines and classic features. The striking contrast between the new paint and the contrasting white trim created a timeless, inviting appearance.
The power of paint extends beyond aesthetics - it also provides necessary protection against the elements. The durable, high-quality finish ensures the home can weather future storms with grace.
Restoring the Roof
Above, the sagging roof line was replaced with a properly shed and proportional roof, complete with correctly spaced and proportioned dormers. The new, historically accurate asphalt shingles promise longevity and authenticity,onial Remodel Pictures
To complete the exterior transformation, the home's styling embraced its historic character with the addition of a welcoming front porch and classic lantern-style lighting. Meanwhile, the landscaping was revamped to include lush plantings and a well-defined entrance, guiding visitors up the new walkway.
Transforming a Cape Cod Colonial
The second home, a charming Cape Cod colonial, exhibited many of the same 1970s-era woes. Its once-kissed window muntins were cracked, the porch leaned precariously, and the home's once-tidy appearance was marred by disarray.
Converting this home's exterior from drab to fab involved careful attention to detail and a dash of modern flair.
Refining the Envelope
The home's exterior was retouched with a soft, historic color palette, with a high-contrast trim that complemented the enhanced caning patterns of the windows. The bold, dark door and striking shutter details added a dose of modern flair, while remaining true to the home's architectural heritage.
New siding and a fresh coat of paint on the garage transformed what was once an afterthought into a cohesive design element. The home's new appearance was now one of uniformity and grace.
Revitalizing the Entry
To complete the transformation, the home's entryway was reimagined. A striking, low-maintenance threshold welcomed visitors inside, while new, sturdy porch posts and railings provided the invitation to step inside. The home's original light fixture was repainted and reinstalled, adding a vintage touch to the updated aesthetic.
The result of these extensive remodels? Two homes that now stand proud, their colonial heritage intact, yet elevated to modern standards of comfort, durability, and curb appeal.
As you explore your own exterior remodel journey, remember: the key lies in finding the perfect blend of historic integrity and modern enhancements. It's a delicate balance, but with the right design choices, your colonial home can embark on a similar transformation, from the faded glory of the past to the freshly painted promise of the future.