That’s why our home’s curb appeal deserves just as much attention as we give thekitchenand living room.

Keep in mind that doesnt mean you should probably implement every action item possible.

In fact, sometimes less is more.

Dorothy Shain Henderson exterior

Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller

Designer Jennie Holland abides by the rule of thumb to use no more than three features on the exterior.

This extends to landscaping as well.

As the saying goes, ‘simplicity is the ultimate sophistication,’ and this rings true for the exterior.

Lindsey Cheek Wilmington, NC Home with Pink Front Door

Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller

A cedar roof adds so much warmth and character to a home regardless of the existing roof pitch."

Find The Right Shutters

Properly sized shutters are so important.

Hardware like shutter dogs (tiebacks) and hinges are also important to consider.

Briar Farm Exterior

As members of the Southern Living Custom Builder Program, New Old founders Mary and Troy Ludemann regularly work with Southern Living House Plans. They purchased Fox Hill (SL-1871) and collaborated with their firm’s in-house architect to tweak it to suit their needs, like nixing the original two-story family room to add a guest suite upstairs and relocating a fireplace from an exterior wall to the interior to allow for more windows.Credit:Brie Williams; Styling: Kendra Surface

If you dont haveshutterson your home’s front exterior, perhaps its time to make that change.

Or if you do, consider a fresh coat of paint.

Instead, lean on natural and organic landscaping techniques with native flowers and plants, says designerLaura Hodges.

Blue Skies Front Door with Orange Trees and Flowers

Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller

A fresh coat of paint or stain can do wonders, as can updating lighting.

Layer up lighting to showcase historic architectural features.

Choosing a fixture that is proportional in scale to the home is key.

The House at a Glance

Credit: Photo: Laurey W. Glenn

You cant go wrong with a classic gas lantern from Bevolo."

While front porch lighting is important, the key to evening curb appeal means going beyond the doorway.

Think Again Before Painting That Brick

Timeless,unpainted brickis making a comeback in 2024.

Home exterior and two dogs

Credit: photographs by LAUREY W. GLENN styling by BUFFY HARGETT MILLER

This creates a family-friendly neighborhood and increases home values, she says.

Julia Engel of Ga Meets Glam Charleston, SC Home Front Porch with Blue Seating

Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Lizzie Cullen Cox

Blue Front Door with Matching Containers with Hydrangeas

Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Barbara Schmidt

Red brick home exterior in Richmond, VA

Credit: Laurey W. Glenn

Pink Outdoor Garden Dining Table

Credit: Alison Miksch