Innovative Design Elements that Boost the Exterior of Homes

It is often said that the quality of a home lies in the bones. While there is a lot of truth to this statement, it is the exterior that sets the stage. Buyers, guests, and any other onlooker will not give a property the time of day if the exterior is in a state of disrepair.

In addition to aesthetics, many exterior home elements play a key role in providing insulation and promoting energy efficiency. With this in mind, keep reading as we explore some of the most innovative design elements that boost the exterior of homes. 

Transitional Spaces

The biophilic concept is one of the most prevailing trends in modern design. By seamlessly connecting interior and exterior spaces, homeowners can effectively increase square footage while feeling more in touch with nature. The increased usage of plants, rustic materials such as wood and stone, and sunlight-transmitting glass are some of the best ways to execute the biophilic concept.

However, one especially creative idea is to use the same flooring for interior spaces as you do for connected decks, patios, or lanais. There are many stunning 12x12 outdoor tile options that work just as well indoors as they do outdoors. By deftly integrating the same flooring in indoor and outdoor spaces, homeowners can create a sense of spaciousness for their interiors while simultaneously boosting functionality in outdoor areas. 

---

A Guide to Mixing and Matching Art in Your Interiors

Transforming Your Space: Creative House Renovation Ideas

The Marriage of Architecture and Nature: Biophilic Design Trends

---

Outdoor Amenities

In a similar vein to transitional spaces, it is also becoming popular to add luxury amenities to outdoor spaces. This is a great way of expanding the dimensions of increasingly cozy home sizes and providing a more comfortable environment for hosting guests.

Outdoor kitchens, living areas with big-screen televisions and smart sound systems, and exterior fireplaces are all some trending ideas that increase the comfort and “wow” factor of exterior spaces. Motorized awnings and louvered pergolas are some of the stylish ways that homeowners can add shade and protect these high-end exterior spaces from the elements. 

Low Maintenance Siding

Siding is one of the most critical home elements for establishing curb appeal. However, the best house colors will quickly lose their luster if they are not actively cared for. As such, traditional wood planks have fallen out of favor as a rustic siding option because they must be painted and/or sealed every other year to maintain their aesthetics and protective properties.

A better alternative is low maintenance engineered siding, such as fiber cement or steel log. These innovative products can be fabricated in a wide range of designs and colors to closely resemble natural wood or masonry products with few upkeep requirements. With the highest wind, fire, and impact resistance on the market, they can keep the exterior of the home looking pristine in all conditions. 

Statement Windows

Windows plays a unique role in home design. They are equal parts interior and exterior, form and function. From an exterior standpoint, expansive windows with uninterrupted glass panes are currently in vogue. Not only do they help establish biophilic principles, but they create a clean, minimalist look that evokes a sense of elegance and sophistication for the home’s exterior. 

Durable Roofing

Too many homeowners take an “out of sight, out of mind” approach when it comes to roofing. They just let it do its job and don’t worry about it until it is too late. Unfortunately, not only does neglected roofing increase the risk of developing a leak, but it is an eyesore that is immediately noticed by passersby. 

Many common roofing materials, such as basic asphalt tiles and wood shingles, can begin to show signs of wear in as little as 10-15 years. This makes it likely that homeowners will need to repair and/or replace the roof multiple times over the home’s lifespan. Therefore, it is a great idea to choose more durable options, such as composite shingles, metal, or slate. These types of materials will typically come with a higher upfront cost, but they offer superior protection and aesthetics in the face of extended UV exposure and inclement weather. This can help keep the roof strong and visually appealing for much longer. 

Permeable Gravel Driveways

Drive through any suburban neighborhood, and you’re sure to see some sort of maintenance work going on with the concrete. From cracked driveways to buckled sidewalks, concrete surfaces have a way of losing their luster rather quickly.

As such, permeable gravel driveways offer an innovative option for long-lasting beauty. The system uses a series of durable paver grids in the driveway substrate. These grids are then filled with stone, gravel, sod, or any other infill of the homeowner's choice.

The system can withstand heavy compressive forces and promotes optimal drainage to ensure that strong runoff does not compromise the driveway. It is also immune to the staining concerns that threaten concrete driveways, making permeable driveway systems the best option for ongoing aesthetics. 

Enhance Your Home’s Exterior with Innovative Upgrades

In addition to its key role in enhancing curb appeal, the exterior of a home is essential for promoting sustainability and general livability of a property. For more ideas on how to improve your home’s exterior, explore the resources at Structures Insider for the leading insights in the construction industry.