There’s something magical about driving through a neighborhood and suddenly stopping because one house just makes you go “wow.” These aren’t the cookie-cutter homes that blend into the background – these are the exteriors that make people slow down, take photos, and dream about what their own place could become.
1. Storybook Magic with Layered Rooflines
People either love it or hate it! Should I keep the blue trim on my new home or go for something different?
byu/ProposalAdmirable159 inExteriorDesign
u/ProposalAdmirable159 transformation proves that strategic roofline design can turn any ordinary house into something straight out of a fairy tale. The genius here is in those multiple levels that create visual drama – each section steps up and down like architectural music. Those dormers aren’t just throwing shade (literally), they’re adding personality that makes the whole structure feel alive. The scalloped trim work on the gables? Pure finishing-touch perfection that separates amateur hour from “stop the car” territory. That winding brick pathway through the gardens creates an entrance so inviting, it practically begs for weekend garden parties.
2. Classic Brick Symmetry That Never Fails
We took a risk and painted the brick. Roast us or praise us.
byu/Bugbear259 inExteriorDesign
Sometimes the most jaw-dropping exteriors are the ones that master the fundamentals flawlessly. Bugbear259 nailed this brick beauty by proving that perfect proportions beat flashy trends every single time. The window placement is so balanced it’s almost hypnotic, while those crisp gabled rooflines create architectural harmony that feels deeply satisfying to look at. Every element screams intentional design – from that arched front entrance to the mature landscaping that frames without overwhelming. This is the kind of home that whispers quality instead of shouting for attention.
3. Bold Siding with Farmhouse Soul
I just painted my house!
byu/eireann113 inExteriorDesign
[USERNAME_PLACEHOLDER] showed serious design confidence with this board and batten masterpiece. Those strong vertical lines make the house feel taller and more substantial, while that metal star accent adds exactly the right amount of farmhouse character without crossing into cheesy territory. The real genius move was balancing bold elements with classic features – traditional double-hung windows and simple gable rooflines let the character shine without competing details fighting for attention. Even better, those solar panels prove sustainability doesn’t mean sacrificing style points.
4. Material Mixing Mastery
Painted the house! (Indecision was killing me last week.)
byu/districtpeach inExteriorDesign
This is what happens when modern farmhouse design gets executed by someone who actually knows what they’re doing. [USERNAME_PLACEHOLDER] combined horizontal siding with natural stone to create texture and visual interest that probably looks even better in person than in photos. Those mixed rooflines – steep pitch on the main section contrasting with the shed dormer – add architectural drama without feeling overdone or try-hard. The covered front porch looks deceptively simple, but those thick columns and clean proportions show serious attention to detail. The result feels custom and expensive while using totally achievable materials.
5. Bungalow Charm with Strategic Details
Exterior remodel done.
byu/pameliaA inExteriorDesign
u/pameliaA created the perfect example of how thoughtful architectural details can completely transform a house exterior. Mixing different siding materials on the gable versus the base adds visual weight to the foundation while keeping the roofline feeling lighter and more graceful. Those concrete steps leading to the front door might seem minor, but they give the entrance presence and importance that cheaper approaches miss. The mature Japanese maple and lush foundation plantings create that coveted “established” look that new construction usually lacks.
6. Vacation Rental Vibes with Textural Layers
I’m back! And it’s done!!
byu/SIUButtercup inExteriorDesign
SIUButtercup absolutely nailed the “expensive custom home” aesthetic with this thoughtful combination of materials and textures. Mixing siding styles on the two-story section versus the single-story garage creates visual layers that keep things interesting from every angle. That covered front porch with substantial stone columns gives off serious getaway vibes – the kind of place that books solid for months. The mature landscaping under gorgeous tree canopy makes it feel established and permanent, even though the design screams modern sophistication.
7. Contemporary Clean Lines Done Right
Siding, trim, window combo
byu/velkr inExteriorDesign
Someone clearly studied every detail before designing this beauty. u/velkr used horizontal siding to create strong lines emphasizing the home’s width, while dark-framed windows add contemporary edge without feeling too stark or cold. What’s most impressive is how clean and uncluttered everything looks – from simple rooflines to that covered front porch that doesn’t try too hard. Every single detail looks intentional and perfectly executed, suggesting either new construction or a complete makeover done right. The fresh landscaping hints at finishing touches still being added to outdoor spaces.
8. Wraparound Porch Perfection
Paint done, thanks for the help!
byu/blantonator inExteriorDesign
u/blantonator created the house equivalent of Sunday morning comfort – pure architectural charm that makes you want to grab coffee and settle in for hours. That wraparound porch with classic railings and columns creates outdoor living space that’s actually designed for living, not just looking pretty. Multiple gables add architectural interest without being flashy, while varied rooflines create depth and shadow that changes throughout the day. The mature landscaping and established gardens show this home has been genuinely loved and cared for over time.
9. Landscaping That Commands Attention
What should I do with this awning? And what color should I paint the house
byu/B_restingface inExteriorDesign
While u/B_restingface‘s classic bungalow architecture is lovely, that incredible front yard transformation is what makes this house truly special. The multicolored paver walkway creates a grand entrance that’s infinitely more interesting than basic concrete, leading the eye straight to the front door with purpose. Those massive hydrangeas are absolutely showstopping – the kind of mature plantings that take years to develop but create instant wow factor. The decorative front porch awning adds vintage character that feels authentic rather than forced.
10. Mediterranean Grandeur with Serious Presence
Modern Spanish Colonial Style
by inExteriorDesign
They didn’t just design a house exterior – they created a mansion that decided to flex its architectural credentials. The stucco walls with subtle detailing provide a sophisticated backdrop for those stunning arched windows and dramatic front entry. Perfectly symmetrical cypress trees in modern planters create a formal entrance that feels like high-end resort territory. That wide concrete walkway creates a grand approach worthy of the architecture, while the tile roof with exposed rafter tails adds authentic Mediterranean character that can’t be faked.
11. Curved Walkway Sophistication
Update on house/front door color
byu/HumpyChip inExteriorDesign
u/HumpyChip’s two-story beauty proves that thoughtful details make all the difference in curb appeal success. The mix of horizontal siding upstairs and stone accents below creates visual layers that photograph like magazine covers, while varied rooflines add architectural interest without feeling busy or chaotic. That curved paver walkway was such a smart design choice – it softens the approach and adds graceful movement to the landscape. Thoughtfully placed ornamental grasses and strategic lighting show someone who understands that great exteriors happen in the details.
12. Evening Drama Through Strategic Lighting
Took us 7 years but think we are on our way
byu/Academic-Ideal-2957 inExteriorDesign
Some houses look decent during the day, but u/Academic-Ideal-2957‘s creation absolutely transforms when the sun goes down. The mix of brick and horizontal siding creates texture that becomes even more dramatic under strategic lighting, while large windows flood the interior with warm light that spills beautifully onto the landscape. Evening illumination highlights every architectural feature – from clean rooflines to that sleek driveway that practically gleams. The landscape lighting doesn’t just illuminate; it creates impressive nighttime presence that elevates the entire street.