Hood House is a playful protector that respects the heritage character of Carlton North whilst celebrating purposeful change. It is a luxurious yet compact and hyper-functional home defined by an exploration of contrast: it is ornamental and restrained, subdued and lively, stately and casual, compartmental and open. For us, it is also a project with an unusual history. This dual-natured renovation evolved through the ownership of two separate clients. Originally intended to accommodate the needs of a young family of four, we shifted gears at the eleventh hour and adapted a thoroughly resolved design solution to the needs of only two. From a young, nuclear family to a blended adult one, our design solution was put to a test of flexibility. The result is a subtle renovation almost invisible from the street yet dramatic in its expressive qualities. An oblique view from the northwest reveals the playful zigzag of the new roof, the rippling metal hood. This is a form-making exercise that connects old to new as well as establishing spatial drama in what might otherwise have been utilitarian rooms upstairs. A simple palette of Australian hardwood timbers and white surfaces are complimented by tactile splashes of brass and rich moments of colour that reveal themselves from behind closed doors. Our internal joke is that Hood House is like Lazarus, risen from the ashes. We’re grateful that almost six years of hard work have culminated in this beautiful, protective and playful house, and so pleased that Glenda and Alistair get to call it home.

PERTOBE

Designing Spaces

Horse Barn Center Aisle

Fisher Barns

Berkeley Craftsman Expansion

ilumus, llc.

Ramona d'Viola - ilumus photography & marketing Blue Dog Renovation & Construction Workshop 30 Architects

Exterior Color Consultation

emily lauderback stewart design and renovation

Cherry Hills Village Residence

Blueline Architects p.c.

Moroccan Villa in Santa Barbara

Maraya Interior Design

New Moroccan Villa on the Santa Barbara Riviera, overlooking the Pacific ocean and the city. In this terra cotta and deep blue home, we used natural stone mosaics and glass mosaics, along with custom carved stone columns. Every room is colorful with deep, rich colors. In the master bath we used blue stone mosaics on the groin vaulted ceiling of the shower. All the lighting was designed and made in Marrakesh, as were many furniture pieces. The entry black and white columns are also imported from Morocco. We also designed the carved doors and had them made in Marrakesh. Cabinetry doors we designed were carved in Canada. The carved plaster molding were made especially for us, and all was shipped in a large container (just before covid-19 hit the shipping world!) Thank you to our wonderful craftsman and enthusiastic vendors! Project designed by Maraya Interior Design. From their beautiful resort town of Ojai, they serve clients in Montecito, Hope Ranch, Santa Ynez, Malibu and Calabasas, across the tri-county area of Santa Barbara, Ventura and Los Angeles, south to Hidden Hills and Calabasas. Architecture by Thomas Ochsner in Santa Barbara, CA

Carsen Exterior Paint Project

Builder Boy

For this project we painted the exterior walls and wood trims of this craftsman home. Fog Coating, a coating that can be applied to a traditional stucco finish that will even out the color of the stucco was applied. For further questions or to schedule a free quote give us a call today. 562-218-3295

Warson Woods

Karen Korn Interiors

Remodels & Additions

Archambault Construction

Front view of renovated barn with new front entry, landscaping, and creamery.

Chateau d'Oex

Jake's Drafting Service Inc

Rear patio

Hillsborough Mediterranean

Bunkhouse Getaway Barn

Barn Pros

WIMBLEDON FAMILY HOUSE

STEPHEN FLETCHER ARCHITECTS

This image shows the rear extension and its relationship with the main garden level, which is situated halfway between the ground and lower ground floor levels. Photographer: Nick Smith

Sammamish Kitchen Remodel

Stephenson Design Collective

Miguel Edwards Photography

Built Work

User

308 Wonderwood Build by Pike Properties - Charlotte Custom Home Builder

Pike Properties

This exterior showcases a beautiful blend of creamy white and taupe colors on brick. The color scheme exudes a timeless elegance, creating a sophisticated and inviting façade. One of the standout features is the striking angles on the roofline, adding a touch of architectural interest and modern flair to the design. The windows not only enhance the overall aesthetics but also offer picturesque views and a sense of openness.

Exterior Design Ideas

The front exterior of your home – the driveway, front yard, verandah and entrance – is a fantastic place to start making that all-important first impression on house guests. Even mailboxes and house numbers can have a wonderful way of grabbing people’s attention. The architectural design should reflect the overall style of your house and the family that live there; while your choice of materials will help your house blend in with its surrounds. Browse the photos on Houzz for ideas and inspiration for the exterior of your house, and strike up a conversation with the architects and designers of your favourite picks. You’ll find house designs for contemporary, eclectic, modern, traditional styles and more.

How do I decide on the exterior style of my home?

Your location, overall sense of style, budget and current home layout will dictate the style of your exterior. If you’re renovating a period home, the materials and features you use should reflect the date in which it was built, while a unique colour scheme could add contemporary flair. New homes may prefer to look to modern or contemporary designs with structural simplicity, whereas, if you live by the ocean, a beach-style design may better suit your locale. That’s not to say you can’t build a new home that has period influences. If you’re a traditionalist, you can borrow architectural details from the Art Deco period, for instance, or use finishes that reflect more of a Scandinavian style, too.

What exterior house colours and materials should I use?

Traditional homes typically use brick and timber building materials, while stone, board-formed concrete and metal cladding are popular contemporary options. Again, the materials you use will depend on your location and the statement you want to make. Your budget will also affect your choice. Vinyl siding is affordable and easy to install, while stone is more expensive but durable and low maintenance. If you’re not ready to renovate but want to update the exterior of your home, you can still paint it. Look to your neighbours when choosing exterior house colours. Consider the streetscape and what type of colours are already in use, firstly, so you don’t replicate next door’s shade; and secondly, so you don’t stand out like a sore thumb. If you’re renovating a period home, you could paint features or intricate details in a bold, standout hue. Front doors, garage doors and window trims also look great in eye-catching colours, even if the rest of the house’s facade is neutral.

How can I maximise my home’s street appeal?

To spice up your home’s architectural design, landscape the surrounding area with plants and pathways that accent the style of your home. If you just need a quick revamp, look at your cement and pavers – these can split and crack over time; and repairing or replacing them can do wonders for your street appeal, especially if it’s a large area like your driveway. Plants, garden paths or low walls can can also add structure to your front yard. Light up your home with sufficient outdoor lighting to make walking up to the front door easy at night. You could use bollard lights along your entry path, or replace tiny wall sconces with statement pendant lighting at the entrance or on your verandah. Decorative elements such as house numbers, mailboxes and doormats will also add character. And if you're looking to sell your house, it may be worth hiring a stylist to help make the most of your property.