House outside entrance ideas

The Kiguchi family moved into their Austin, Texas home in 1994. Built in the 1980’s as part of a neighborhood development, they happily raised their family here but longed for something more contemporary. Once they became empty nesters, they decided it was time for a major remodel. After spending many years visiting Austin AIA Home Tours that highlight contemporary residential architecture, they had a lot of ideas and in 2013 were ready to interview architects and get their renovation underway. The project turned into a major remodel due to an unstable foundation. Architects Ben Arbib and Ed Hughey, of Arbib Hughey Design were hired to solve the structural issue and look for inspiration in the bones of the house, which sat on top of a hillside and was surrounded by great views. Unfortunately, with the old floor plan, the beautiful views were hidden by small windows that were poorly placed. In order to bring more natural light into the house the window sizes and configurations had to be addressed, all while keeping in mind the homeowners desire for a modern look and feel. To achieve a more contemporary and sophisticated front of house, a new entry was designed that included removing a two-story bay window and porch. The entrance of the home also became more integrated with the landscape creating a template for new foliage to be planted. Older exterior materials were updated to incorporate a more muted palette of colors with a metal roof, dark grey siding in the back and white stucco in the front. Deep eaves were added over many of the new large windows for clean lines and sun protection. “Inside it was about opening up the floor plan, expanding the views throughout the house, and updating the material palette to get a modern look that was also warm and inviting,” said Ben from Arbib Hughey Design. “Prior to the remodel, the house had the typical separation of rooms. We removed the walls between them and changed all of the windows to Milgard Thermally Improved Aluminum to connect the inside with the outside. No matter where you are you get nice views and natural light.” The architects wanted to create some drama, which they accomplished with the window placement and opening up the interior floor plan to an open concept approach. Cabinetry was used to help delineate intimate spaces. To add warmth to an all-white living room, white-washed oak wood floors were installed and pine planks were used around the fireplace. The large windows served as artwork bringing the color of nature into the space. An octagon shaped, elevated dining room, (named “the turret”), had a big impact on the design of the house. They architects rounded the corners and added larger window openings overlooking a new sunken garden. The great room was also softened by rounding out the corners and that circular theme continued throughout the house, being picked up in skylight wells and kitchen cabinetry. A staircase leading to a catwalk was added and the result was a two-story window wall that flooded the home with natural light. When asked why Milgard® Thermally Improved Aluminum windows were selected, the architectural team listed many reasons: 1) Aesthetics: “We liked the slim profiles and narrow sightlines. The window frames never get in the way of the view and that was important to us. They also have a very contemporary look that went well with our design.” 2) Options: “We liked that we could get large sliding doors that matched the windows, giving us a very cohesive look and feel throughout the project.” 3) Cost Effective: “Milgard windows are affordable. You get a good product at a good price.” 4) Custom Sizes: “Milgard windows are customizable, which allowed us to get the right window for each location.” Ready to take on your own traditional to modern home remodeling project? Arbib Hughey Design advises, “Work with a good architect. That means picking a team that is creative, communicative, listens well and is responsive. We think it’s important for an architect to listen to their clients and give them something they want, not something the architect thinks they should have. At the same time you want an architect who is willing and able to think outside the box and offer up design options that you may not have considered. Design is about a lot of back and forth, trying out ideas, getting feedback and trying again.” The home was completely transformed into a unique, contemporary house perfectly integrated with its site. Internally the home has a natural flow for the occupants and externally it is integrated with the surroundings taking advantage of great natural light. As a side note, it was highly praised as part of the Austin AIA homes tour.
Dark siding with metal light roof - nadejda_evgheni_ponomarenco

Looking to boost your home’s curb appeal? These exterior architectural elements will make your home the best on the block.

1. An oversized front door makes an enduring first impression.

Photo: beckiowens/Instagram

2. Modern planters and address numbers look sleek and stylish.

Photo: west elm/Instagram

3. Barn lights and stacked wood give off a farmhouse feel.

Photo: thefestivefarmhouse/Instagram

4. Patterned ceramic tile packs a lot of personality.

Photo: islandinteriors/Instagram

5. Combining colors into a cohesive palette creates interest.

Photo: scopebuildingsolutions/Instagram

6. Symmetrical benches and planters are pleasing to the eye.

Photo: homesweetmyers/Instagram

7. Steel railings and a contemporary front door create clean lines.

Photo: jordaniversonsignaturehomes/Instagram

8. Applied mouldings and a bold paint color are a match made in design heaven.

Photo: tumblr

9. Coordinating sconces and front door handle sets offer a bit of bling.

Photo: threebirdsrenovations/Instagram

10. An arched doorway paired with a round top door maintains flow.

Photo: artisansignaturehomes/Instagram

11. A portico entry is updated with a copper sweep.

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12. Layered doormats add extra oomph to a front porch.

Photo: janissnell/Instagram

13. A quaint cutout window adds instant character.

Photo: thepottedboxwood/Instagram

14. A Dutch door and stone pavers encapsulate a country aesthetic.

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15. A timber-framed entry provides a rustic feel.

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16. A stained wood ceiling creates contrast against a teal door and white exterior.

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17. And finally, a hanging pendant lantern looks sophisticated and simple.

Photo: kellynuttdesign/Instagram

The first thing that guests will notice as they approach your home is the entrance. That’s why it’s important that this area be one that welcomes guests in and shows off your personality. This is your chance to give your home that curb appeal you’ve always dreamt of.

Lucky for you, we put together a list of some amazing house entrance ideas to get your creative juices flowing. Check out the following 57 house entrance design ideas to inspire you in creating your own!

1. Energetic Color

Orange is an energizing color. Covering your door with this hue brightens the space and brings more dimension to the area.

2. Modern Design

Supplement your house’s modern architecture with the walkway that leads up to it. The rectangular concrete slabs are different sizes, providing a unique aesthetic.

3. Sidelights

Sidelights, tall skinny windows that flank the door, bring in more natural light and add an extra element of design. Flood your space with the extra warmth.

4. Craftsman Style

Craftsman-style homes emphasize horizontal lines, have triangular roofs, utilize exposed beams and rafters, and have thick columns. Earthy tones give it that nice, natural look.

5. Wooden Archway

Pull similar colors throughout the exterior of your house. The stain used on the front door is also seen on the trim and columns.

6. Lots Of Natural Light

Natural light is one of the best ways to create a warm, welcoming environment. As the sun moves throughout the day, it will cast different shadows across the entrance.

7. Tiny But Mighty

Make a “wow” entrance even with a small house and front porch. The stained wood of the porch and door stands out against the soft grey siding of the house.

8. Expansive Stone

The vast expanse of stone on the floor, walls, ceilings, and even columns cannot be missed. The natural colors and patterns in the stone work wonders.

9. Garden Entrance

Guide guests to the front door by the use of a carefully manicured garden. The plants serve as an organic way to add texture, color, and depth.

10. Bright Blue Hue

A lovely way to brighten your entrance is by painting your door. Increase that curb appeal with a fresh coat of paint! Pick a classic color or spice things up a little bit with a color like this one.

11. Simplicity

Make your front door the focal point of the entrance. A stairway that leads right up to the door creates the perfect path.

Curious about the cost of a front door? We talk all about it in this guide – How Much Does A Front Door Cost?

12. Moody Stained Door

The deep stain of this front door contrasts beautifully with the white walls and columns of this home. The sidelights also have a decorative pattern to give the space more depth.

13. Wraparound Porch

A wraparound porch creates a warm and welcoming entrance. It encourages outdoor gatherings for entertainment in all types of weather conditions. It promotes relaxation and gives you time to slow down.

14. Statement Wreath

Dress up your front door with decor items like a large statement wreath. Change the wreath out as the different seasons and holidays come around.

Read more: 21 Cool Front Door Decor Ideas

15. Geometric Two Tone

Two tones never looked so good. This geometric home employs the use of white paint and gorgeous stained planks. The white walls on the house’s exterior make the vibrant plants pop and add interesting detail.

16. Porch Charm

A porch can add a lot of charm to an entrance. The pillar and railing pair calls attention to the inviting porch.

17. Crisp Trim

One way to create a gorgeous entrance is by making sure your house’s trim is crisp. The white trim is a timeless touch and always looks fresh.

18. Symmetric Plants

Flank your entrance with a pair of potted plants or use shrubs to line the walkway. Seasonal plants are a great option for rotating new color and texture to the space.

Check out these 19 Dwarf Evergreen Shrubs to see if they’ll work for you!

19. Warm Welcome

Welcome your guests with a literal “welcome” sign on your door. The collection of the doormat, topiary, and springtime tulips are perfect personal touches to the space.

20. Seasonal Display

Change up your entrance decor as the seasons change. The broad chair on the small porch serves as an excellent area for placing your seasonal decor and plants.

21. Rusty Red Greeting

Amidst the tangle of lush greenery, this rusty red door boldly stands out. The greenery calls attention to the door, so why not emphasize the space even more with a fun paint color?

22. Dainty Decor

Sometimes all your entrance needs is a dainty wreath or other door decoration to pull the space together in harmony. It adds a touch of your personality.

23. Trail Of Potted Plants

When you have a stairway that leads right to your door, take advantage of the space you do have: the stairs. Position playful pots and plants along the staircase.

24. Complements

Notice how the plants complement the colors of the door and red brick exterior. Doing so makes the area look cohesive and carefully designed.

25. Broad Area

A broad porch can serve as a great greeting to your guests. The wide space gives a sense of openness.

26. Framed Doorway

The stone arch surrounding the door emphasizes the door’s shape and creates a dramatized look. This can also give your guest’s a sense of what your home’s interior style will be like.

27. Wicker Furniture

Wicker furniture is versatile in its design and texture. The wicker can bring balance to the entrance area and bring its air of casual warmth.

28. Playful Hues

Have fun with colors in your entrance. Though a door color is more permanent in nature, try changing out your wreaths and other porch decor to bring in some new color. Vintage finds like a trumpet planter and garden bunny add personality.

29. Color Family

Orange and yellow belong to the warm color family, evoking feelings of sunlight, passion, and positivity. Using the different tones will brighten the space and breathe new life into it.

30. Simple Decor

Sometimes all you need is simple decor to craft a perfect entrance to your house. The neutral color palette of the house gives the accent pieces a spotlight. Bright red geraniums and a small wall hanging are emphasized by the color palette.

31. Glass Doors

Glass front doors come in all kinds of styles, giving you the ability to let your style shine through. It’s like having artwork welcome in your guests.

32. Warmth From Wood

There’s no denying that the presence of wood gives everything a cozy appeal. It transforms your space to be the ultimate welcome.

33. Neutral Tones

Neutral, earth-colored tones are used to create organic, soothing, inviting areas. Accent the area with plants and a pair of chairs. Door knockers are an excellent way to create more interest and tell a story.

Read more: 12 Unique Gothic Door Knockers

34. Planked Ceiling

A wooden plank ceiling is a great way to add more architectural interest to the entrance of your house. It’s also a convenient way to cover up any old, ugly ceilings.

35. Stormy Tones

Mix and match grey tones to craft a stormy, moody entrance. This way it’s easy to use accent color pieces whenever you’d like.

36. Corner Entrance

Having your entrance tucked into a corner makes for an intriguing entry.

37. Modern Delight

The whole house makes a modern statement with its usage of concrete, metal, glass, and wood.

38. Traditional Appeal

This traditional style home is all things calm and soothing. Gorgeous color and texture are the emphasis for this entrance.

39. Overhang

An overhang provides shade and protection from rain toy our guests that are waiting to come inside.

40. Color Blocking

Color blocking gives you the ability to add in a collection of color without having to commit to just one. Make sure the colors go well together before you cover your entrance!

41. All-Around Lighting

Illuminate the entrance to make it as inviting as possible.

42. Garden Treasures

A garden and porch full of flowers is one of the best things you can do to create an unforgettable entrance.

Check out these 19 border plants for your walkway that will increase the curb appeal of your home!

43. Glass Panels

The glass inserts on these doors have an interesting pattern to them that add individuality to the entrance. Thriller-filler-spiller plant arrangements pair perfectly.

44. Consistent Shape

Carry the arch structure throughout the entrance’s architectural design like seen in the entrance arch and door.

45. Half Wall

Border your door and porch with a half wall. It helps add dimension and separation where needed.

46. Royal Blue

A royal blue double door stands out against the natural colors of the gravel pathway and brick walls.

47. Manicured Lawn

A manicured lawn will add instant curb appeal to your house. The lawn will easily welcome guests to your entrance.

48. Chartreuse Greeting

This chartreuse door brings a pop of color and is the perfect companion to the flowers in the raised bed.

49. Flower Baskets

A pair of hanging flower baskets diversifies the look of your entrance in the best way.

50. Porch Lighting

Porch lighting is a critical piece for your entrance. The design and light it gives off help with the overall aesthetic.

Read more: How Big Should A Front Porch Light Be?

51. Climbing Plants

Flowering, climbing plants are the perfect decoration for your house’s exterior walls and to frame the entrance.

52. Color, Color, Color

Give your entrance a makeover in lots of color. Color is one of the best ways to create an inviting entrance.

53. Welcome Mat

The simple addition of a welcome mat will do wonders for your entrance. Welcome mats come in sorts of styles, colors, and sizes to fit your vision.

54. Color Contrasts

Black helps tie together certain areas due to its demanding presence. It brings a dose of refreshing simplicity.

55. Elegance

The black and white color combination is one of the classiest, most traditional, elegant looks of all time. Throw in a pair of large potted ferns for that beautiful color and texture addition.

56. Intriguing Fixtures

This modern maven is all things eye-catching. The door overhang has a modern flair from the glass panels and metal holding structure.

57. Grand Entrance

Columns, wide staircases, sweeping porches, and large planters foster the right conditions for a grand entrance.