As you can see, my house is in dire need of interest and some depth. I think I'd like to get new siding in a warmer color, and I need to replace the stoop. I love craftsman or cal bngalow style, and I'd love to have a front porch that extends to the area inbetween the windows. However, I'd need a variance, and it might be too expensive. Any ideas how I can improve the look with a porch/portico/stoop? also, I'd like to know if my house lends itself to transforming into craftsman/cal style. It's windows seem to call for shutters, and i know they dont go with those style.

thanks

no ideas, anyone?

I don't know what your limits are. What sort of building codes are you dealing with?

Personally I'd take off the stoop and put a covered porch across most or all of the front, but I don't have any codes to deal with.

I just finished the exterior of my bungalow. A couple of ideas for a start would be either a new wood door, or just paint it a deep rich color. A pathway to you front door would make it more welcoming. If money is an issue, as it is with me, try finding recycled material, or even cut out a path, put down edging and fill it in with decomposed granite. This will act as a base for when you get other material.
Keep in mind when you look at colors, it is best to keep it at three colors using the 60-30-10 ratio of color. The most color (60%) is the body, 30% is usually the gables and / or windows, 10% is the trim work. An extra color can be used for things like the mail box, door knob, light fixtures. Keeping like things painted the same, makes for a seamless whole.
Also make plan, you don't have to stick to it, but it helps you break down a big project into affordable projects.

With a simple front gable house the easiest thing would be to add a front porch to add some architectural detail. Here's a sample from the AntiqueHome.org website to get an idea of what it would look like.



Diane

I agree with Diane - add a front porch. I would remove the shutters and get a bigger attic vent (it looks too small). My house is the same shape as yours but the door and porch is in the middle.