You will find all kinds of different architecture when it comes to homes in Toronto. This city is constantly evolving, and the variety of styles from old to new creates a fascinating mix. A “flat front house” isn’t a formal structure; it’s just a term we use when the home’s exterior has no significant projections, such as bay windows, pitched roofs, front porches, or other decorative elements. They are common throughout Toronto, even in high-end designs. The question remains; How to add curb appeal to a flat front house?
In one sense, a flat front house is a blank canvas where you can add your individual flair. However, without that creative touch, the exterior can also appear flat or two-dimensional.
Since we all want our space to be as beautiful on the outside as it is on the inside, curb appeal for the front of the house is vital. If you have a flat front house, it’s even more important to elevate your exterior aesthetic. In this post, we’ll highlight some inspirational curb appeal ideas to add visual interest and to add curb appeal to a flat front house, or any property!
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Who Is Your Curb Appeal For?
What is curb appeal, anyway? Think of how your home looks to an unbiased third party who sees it from the outside for the first time. If the aesthetic is stunning and gorgeous, then you have some serious curbside appeal! If it is lacking, the visit to your home could leave visitors (especially buyers) feeling underwhelmed. Luckily, a few front yard decor ideas can change all of that!
The first step in transforming your home is simply to decide on a vision. In order to come up with curb appeal ideas for the front of your house, you start with deciding who you are designing your curb appeal for in the first place.
If you plan to stay in your home for the foreseeable future, then you are the one to impress! It’s a different story if you plan to put your house on the market. Then, your number one priority is to focus on what will make a fantastic first impression on potential buyers. Done right, curb appeal is exactly what you need to create that “wow” factor.
The idea is that everyone falls in love with your home the moment they pull up into your driveway. By the time they walk up the front steps, they can already see themselves living there.
Now that you have the vision, it’s on to the practical steps of how to improve curb appeal. Here are some simple, low maintenance front yard curb appeal idea you can use to make your home appealing right from the start.
Do you need to make the most of your transaction in the minimum amount of time? The posts below can help:
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The Door
Your home’s front entry is a major focal point for anyone walking by or pulling up for a visit. This is your chance to make it shine with a pop of colour on a front door or a fresh coat of semi-gloss paint.
The goal is to be a little different and add a splash of personality to make your house stand out. The process is simple, too. Start with a coat of primer for durability and pick your colour. Finish by cleaning any debris from around the knob. A little metal polish on the door fixtures is a nice final touch!
Container Gardens
There is arguably no better way to improve your home’s facade than curb appeal landscaping, with the generous use of flowers and plants! Greenery creates a welcoming vibe and a lively dash of colour to any home exterior.
If you don’t have a green thumb, don’t despair! Many plants and flowers are easy and low-maintenance. Once they’re planted, you can keep them alive by watering them periodically during dry spells.
Glazed pots, hanging baskets, or dramatic urns – you have so many options! Aim for a container you love that also complements the style of your home. Seasonal flowers come in an assortment of all different colours that flow well with your newly painted door! A staggered, asymmetrical arrangement is a great way to create a dynamic setting for a flat front house.
Pathway Lighting
You can create an enchanting curb appeal with solar lights, which you can likely find at your local dollar store! The evening is yet another chance for your house to sparkle and shine.
If you’re going with wired landscaping, low-voltage lighting makes a huge impact on your home’s curb appeal while also providing safety and security. It’s not just about aesthetics, either.
Lighting up steps helps to prevent falls and acts as a deterrent to intruders. Now, your home can be safe and practical while glowing with a welcoming and magical ambiance!
Window Boxes
You don’t see many window boxes filled with glorious and colourful flowers these days, and we think that’s a shame. Beautiful blooms add a lot of vibrancy to your home’s look. Plus, a window box can be easier to implement than planting in the ground.
Talk about a simple way to add a ton of curb appeal and dimension to a flat front exterior. Choose boxes made from copper or iron for a traditional look, or painted wood for a cottage feel.
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Curb Appeal: Landscaping
There is no arguing that a landscaped front yard adds value and curb appeal to a home. It also creates depth and visual interest to an otherwise flat front entrance.
Plant a few new plants and shrubs, maybe even consider installing a watering system so that your front yard is well hydrated. Decorative pieces such as birdbaths, metal cutouts, sculptures, and wind chimes add originality to your front yard.
Looking for even more simple front yard landscaping ideas? Check out 5 Landscaping Tips For Home Sellers.
Spruce Up The Garage Door
While it may be a large investment, if you can, then give your garage door an upgrade! There’s no need to replace the entire thing; simply investing in some new paint can instil your front yard with a sense of life and colour and step up your curb appeal.
Create A Seating Area On Your Porch
Front porches were made for curb appeal. If you’re lucky enough to have one, you’ll want to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere where you can sit and socialize with coffee or just relax in the breeze.
Add a bench and accompany it with some colourful pillows. Place a small side table as well for convenience and style. Whether you plan to sell your home or stay, you can never go wrong in revamping your outside appeal!
Do you have questions about buying or selling a house in today’s market? Our West Toronto real estate agents are happy to help. Reach out today at 416-769-3437 or email info@sidorovainwood.com for customized guidance.
