Fabulous First Impressions

BY NICOLE STRACEK

A front entrance is a chance to make a lasting first impression on guests. As one of the main focal points of any home, the front entrance should be warm, welcoming, and most of all, showcase personal style. Front porches with cozy outdoor furniture offer a sense of comfort, while statement making flora and fauna can enhance stone pathways. Bold and unique lighting adds a touch of flair, while personal touches within the décor adds character. More than just curb appeal, a statement-making front entrance can increase value while providing a glimpse into a homeowner’s personal style.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NOR-SON CUSTOM BUILDERS

Statement-making stone

Stone is a natural design element that compliments a wide variety of home styles. Installing stone patios, pathways, walkways, or stairs can add value and curb appeal as they significantly enhance a home’s front entrance. Construction companies continue to see customers asking for stone accents because it is timeless, durable and beautiful.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NOR-SON CUSTOM BUILDERS

“Nearly 75% of our customers want to incorporate stone into their entryways. Stone provides a natural focal point, and it blends well with any style of home, offering homeowners that warm, typical, Brainerd lakes, up north appeal,” shared Jeremy Johnston, owner of Northland Construction of Brainerd. Stone pavers and stamped concrete are both great options depending on budget.

“If a customer is looking to remodel their existing entryway there are quite a few things we can do to help bring their ideas to life. We also work closely with customers to incorporate their current design aesthetic to ensure the changes seamlessly blend with their current home style,” said Johnston.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NOR-SON CUSTOM BUILDERS

With hundreds of styles, colors and pattern combinations, the options are endless. Working with a custom builder can help ensure that stone pavers are installed correctly. “Whether it’s a remodel or new construction we work with customers to help identify what works and what doesn’t,” said Johnston. “We take into consideration the roof lines, budget and offer design concepts that are within budgets while still meeting the customers’ needs.” In addition to instantly adding value to a home stone is virtually maintenance free.

Front Door Update

For the full effect, replacing the front door along with the hardware can instantly update the way a front entry looks. “Changing a front door to one with either more glass or a unique glass design while adding stained glass panels or designer glass, such as rain or baroque glass can add a decorative touch, lets light in, and still offers some privacy. It not only improves the exterior look but adds light and distinction to the interior,” said Jenny Gunsbury, owner of Bercher Design & Construction in Baxter.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BERCHER CONSTRUCTION

An easy DIY budget-friendly option is painting an existing front door to add in some color. “One of the quickest and easiest ways to make a noticeable upgrade to an existing entryway is to paint the front door. A bright, bold color can infuse new energy into the space,” said Gunsbury.

Stone provides a natural focal point, and it blends well with any style of home, offering homeowners that warm, typical, Brainerd lakes, up north appeal.

- Jeremy Johnston

Owner, Northland Construction

Details for Days

Personal style is always in the details. New house numbers, a wall mounted mailbox and overhead light fixtures are all pieces that make up great style. These details become the focal point of the curb appeal, and they look best when they function collectively rather than scattered pieces. “Good lighting makes a home feel welcoming in addition to providing curb appeal. A statement light fixture, such as a hanging chandelier or bold wall sconce that complements the home’s exterior, fits the bill on both accounts. If using LED bulbs, one with a 2700K rating will provide a warm white light,” shared Gunsbury. Creating symmetry with design details is both eye pleasing and simple. Symmetrical compositions of the light fixtures and front door accents create a distinct entryway.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BERCHER CONSTRUCTION

A home’s current design and style should be taken into consideration when choosing accent details. Upgrading your front door also means upgrading old, outdated hardware. With the latest designs waiting to be curated by homeowners, choosing interesting or statement making hardware is a great option for enhancing an entry. Contemporary homes might look best with brushed nickel, where oil-bronze finishes are a stunning addition to traditional homes.

Front Porches

A front porch is often coveted for its comfort. It’s an additional outdoor room where family and friends can kick back and relax. Depending on budget and home style, adding a front porch can instantly upgrade a front entryway while adding significant value to a home. Materials range from pressure treated wood, cedar, redwood, vinyl and composite decking. “Extending roof lines, installing brackets or corbels underneath the roof line can provide fairly reduced maintenance,” said Johnston. Front entry architecture options such as decorative brackets, moldings, columns, and trim can also add details that compliment a front porch.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NOR-SON CUSTOM BUILDERS

Finishing Touches

Add outdoor seating to portray a sense of comfort while a fabulous chandelier hanging above the front door creates light, style and brings the room together. With style in mind, it’s important to utilize the space to add more curb appeal. However, no front porch doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. “Pull up a vintage wooden stool, bench or chair that can be used to display small potted plants or seasonal decorations,” said Gunsbury. “Trading out a tired, old welcome mat with a new, natural fiber one can make the entryway feel refreshed. Coir, a fiber made from coconuts, withstands elements well, removes dirt and sand from shoes, and can be customized with colorful designs or text.” Installing window boxes for flowers is a quick way to charm. Brass or copper window boxes are a perfect addition to any traditional style home, where painted wood boxes would go well with a cottage feel. Trim back any overgrown plants that block the view of the front porch and focus on just a few key areas that offer the most impact.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NOR-SON CUSTOM BUILDERS

With an array of options that can fit any budget, upgrading a home’s front entrance is the perfect way to add some curb appeal making it the envy of the block. Remodeling the entrance can also entice potential home buyers as well. From stone accents and walkways to more subtle details like lighting and landscaping, the goal should be to reflect a personal style that leaves a lasting impression on everyone.