Split-level homes are found in nearly every neighborhood in the Twin Cities, especially in St. Paul. This architectural style was immensely popular from the 1950s through the ‘80s because the layout allowed families to maximize their living space even on small lots. However, many people see split-level homes as dated by today’s standards.
While interior renovations can completely transform how your home feels inside, it’s hard to ignore the iconic features of a split-level home from the outside. The good news is that a split level exterior remodel can make your home look like an entirely new place. Let’s look at a few ways to update a split level exterior to make your home match your ideal style.
James Barton Design-Build has 30 years of experience with updating split level home exteriors in the Twin Cities. Our designers are experts at picking features that will completely transform the look of your split-level home. Contact us today to see the hidden possibilities in your home!
Revisit Your Overall Color Scheme
A lot of split-level homes in the Twin Cities have drab or monochromatic color schemes that create an outdated look. Using a mix of dark and light colors or adding new textures can create more contrast and dimension.
If your home has wooden support beams and accents, consider restaining, painting, or refinishing the accents using a color that complements or contrasts your home’s primary color.
Refresh the Siding and Trim
Split-level homes tend to use the same color of siding all over the house, which can sometimes look bland. Whether you repaint your siding or replace it, color-blocking your siding can make your exterior look more interesting.
In the home above, JBDB added white trim to give the exterior more dimension, while breaking up the solid facade with gray and white siding to create more visual interest. See more of our before-and-afters for inspiration!
Modernize Brick Facades
Split-level homes were notorious for using brick facades. While brick can have a timeless look, it may also make your home look outdated depending on the color and how it’s used. Painting or staining brick is a great way to give your home a facelift without extensive renovations.
Remove Dated Shutters
Shutters used to serve a practical purpose, but in the 50s and 60s, when split-levels gained popularity, they became more of an aesthetic choice. Today, houses with shutters can look old-fashioned even if the rest of the home has been modernized.
One thing to keep in mind, however, is that shutters can create the illusion of having larger windows. Removing them can have the unintended effect of making your windows appear too small for your home.
Upgrade Your Windows
Speaking of windows, you can also create an updated split level exterior by replacing your windows. Not only does this boost your home’s energy efficiency, but it also has a return on investment (ROI) of nearly 70%. Changing your windows can let in more light while also giving your exterior a more modern look. When choosing windows, think about how the trim color works into the overall color scheme for your exterior.
Build a Porch
If you don’t already have one, consider adding a porch. A small porch doesn’t just give you a place to enjoy the warmer months; it pulls the eye’s focus, making your main entrance the focal point of your home instead of the garage. You can opt for an open front porch or a screened-in porch, depending on your preferences.
Replace the Front Door
Chances are, your door matches the style of your exterior and contributes to its dated appearance. Replacing a front door has an ROI of 188%, making it one of the most valuable upgrades you can do for both the style and function of your home. Many homeowners use a bright pop of color on their front door to create a warm, inviting, and eye-catching look.
Update the Garage Door
Looking for a project with an even better ROI? Replacing a garage door has a 194% ROI, while also being one of the best ways to update a split level exterior. Many split-level homes have the garage at the front, so it tends to be a focal point. Adding a garage door with modern windows or sleek panels can give your entire home a refreshed look.
Add Exterior Lighting
Your home probably already has some form of exterior lights, but they might not have been updated since your house was built. Changing the style of your lights can instantly make your home feel more modern while also improving safety and security by making it easier to see outside.
Revitalize the Landscaping
While not part of your home, landscaping has a big effect on the overall appearance of your house. If your landscaping has a lot of gravel, old-fashioned lawn ornaments, or compact shrubbery, these things can take away from your home even if you update the siding, windows, or other features.
Native grasses, purple coneflowers, and other prairie plants are excellent choices for landscaping in Minnesota. You can create a cohesive and balanced look by blending native species with more classic landscaping plants, such as hydrangeas or hostas, which also thrive in the Twin Cities.
Add a Stylish House Number
This is a small one, but peeling off those 80s-style plastic house numbers and replacing them with sleek metal numbers in a modern font can instantly refresh your exterior. Better yet, install a small light over your house number to make it stand out.
Updating a Split Level Home Exterior with James Barton Design-Build
Split-level homes are no longer a favorite architectural style, but that doesn’t mean you can’t love your house. Refreshing the exterior with modern colors and features can make your home feel like new.
At James Barton Design-Build, we can turn your split-level home into the place you’ve always wanted it to be. Our expert designers are here to listen to your ideas and share concepts you might not have thought of. With a team of skilled builders and certified remodelers, your home is in good hands with JBDB. Contact us today to start redesigning your split-level home.
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