Curb-Appeal

Creating Curb Appeal

Bring style to your home’s exterior with a solid design and special details.

First impressions matter. Whether you’re building a grand, lakeside log home, a cozy log cabin in the woods or fresh-feeling timber hybrid, nothing says “welcome home!” like a well-designed exterior.

While each of our floor plans are designed to be functional and comfortable, we know it’s not just what’s on the inside that counts.  That’s why our in-house design team is skilled at offering tips and tricks that will give your home’s exterior stand-out style, making coming home to your log or timber getaway even more of a pleasure.

Here are a few of our favorite ideas for creating a friendly facade:

Get a Head Start:  For instant curb appeal, pay close attention to the home’s front exterior when choosing a design.  Often, plans made to focus on rear elements, such as a stunning view or access to the water, may have understated entryways.  Look for plans that include eye-catching architectural details, such as an elevated entrance, a gabled portico or covered front porch.

Make it your own:  If the Ward Cedar plan you choose has a relatively simple exterior, we’ve made it easy to incorporate any changes you can dream up into the design — all at no extra cost.  Some custom curb appeal ideas: adding gable dormers into a simple roofline, a shed dormer above the front door or custom window features, like an eyebrow window.  And, don’t forget to dress up the door.  A cheery coat of paint and sidelights or transoms can turn your front door into a focal point. 

Bring in the texture: While Ward Cedar’s northern white cedar logs will lend an instant “wow” factor to your log home’s exterior, there are other ways to add even more character to your build. Incorporating stone skirting around your home’s foundation or rock columns to anchor log or timber posts will add natural, rugged appeal.  Lastly, mix in metal elements, such as iron porch railings, stylish front door hardware and outdoor light fixtures, like a pendant over the front door or lantern-style wall sconces.  The artful blend of wood, stone and metal will create a striking first impression.

Keep it clean + cozy:  If you have a covered entry, don’t let the space go to waste.  Transform it into a natural extension of your interior living area that both you and your guests will love by filling the space with comfortable, cozy seating, durable outdoor rugs, and even artwork or lamps.  No covered space?  The best way to create a great first impression is to keep your home’s exterior neat and tidy.  Trim back bushes and shrubs that border your home to keep the architecture front and center and create a clear, inviting path for company.  Next, pressure wash walkways or decks and set out potted annuals to add color.  Finally, hang a pretty wreath, throw out a fresh welcome mat and wait for the company (and compliments!) to roll in.

Contact us today to begin your log home journey.

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