Marcio Vasconcelos
Split level homes are a style that gained popularity in the mid-20th century. They are known for their unique floor plans that separate living spaces into different levels.
When you walk in through the front door, usually, you'll come across one set of stairs leading up to the bedroom level and another leading down to the basement. It's common for the basement to be finished as well, allowing you to use it for many functions.
Having been popular since the 50s, some of the split level homes exteriors often reflect the trends of the past, which makes homeowners wonder how to bring a modern touch to their façades.
If you are already a split-level home owner, or are thinking about owning one and you are looking for ideas of how to modernize its exterior, continue reading. We’ve selected the most modern designs nowadays to help get creative.
Update the Roofline
To update a split-level home’s exterior you can start with the roof, since in many cases it is one of the first signs of a dated house. Standing seam metal roofs are a modern and eco-friendly option for you.
They offer a variety of colors, such as earth tones and black, which are colors that have gained popularity. Furthermore, its lifespan of 30-50 years is excellent. It is strong enough to endure harsh weather conditions, from heavy snowfall to extreme temperatures.
These kinds of roofs are energy-efficient. Their design reflects sunlight, resulting in a reduction of your home’s cooling costs during summer months. It may look like a big investment, but betting on a standing seam metal roof is a way to minimize spending on future repairs or replacement.
You can also add eaves or overhangs to the roof. This creates a more pronounced profile and offers a modern touch while also improving energy efficiency by providing shade.
Refresh the paint and the siding
One inexpensive way to update a house is by painting it and/or replacing its siding. Both are like the skin of your home and changing it can dramatically alter its appearance.
A fresh coat of paint with the right color can give an entirely new look to a home. You can opt for dark colors (blue, black and green for example), warm whites and creams or even soft colors like pink. By choosing the right colors you bring a modern and stylish appearance to your home, which adds to its value in real estate.
By replacing your old siding with a new set of wood siding you will undoubtedly change your home's look. Aside from giving your home a modern and fresh touch, newer vinyl siding is a way to lower energy bill costs since it insulates your home better, increasing energy efficiency. It is also worth mentioning that vinyl siding prevent mold growth, and water damage.
Rethink Windows and Doors
Bigger and larger windows are a perfect match for split level houses. The same can be said about bold and modern doors.
Be intentional with the windows
A large window will create a balanced and cohesive look for your exterior, making your home much more appealing. Aside from aesthetics, a larger window will bring in natural light and enhance the indoor-outdoor connection.
Consider the window’s style and design. Double-paned glass, or windows that are specifically designed to keep heat inside during winter and cool air during summer months, are a good option. They are considered energy efficient and will help maintain utility costs low when it comes to energy consumption.
Be bold with the front door
A bold front door can act as a statement piece. Think of adding a new wooden door in a modern design, like frosted glass or industrial metal frames. Or you can think about painting the front door with a unique color.
Garage Doors will make your house stand out
Nowadays there are minimalist design door options featuring glass, aluminum or steel materials. These contemporary door styles permit natural light to come in and enhance the overall look of your home.
Incorporate Modern Accents
Paying attention to small details will showcase how thoughtful you were when designing your home. Accent features like lighting, address numbers, and railings and trim can be a good way to modernize a split level home.
You can explore different types of lighting fixtures like pendants, sconces and outdoor lighting. The right light adds a touch of elegance and style to your home’s exterior.
A clean sans-serif font can bring a modern touch to your address numbers. When thinking about railings and trim you can opt for minimalist design, using materials like steel or cable.
Enhance Landscaping
Modern touches like adding an outdoor living space, a plant section, trimmed hedges and geometric patterns will create a landscaping that brings the feel of simplicity and synergy to the home's design.
A front porch will make for a more comfortable reception area for your visitors, since split level houses often lack an appropriate room for reception.
Having a nice front yard with colorful flower bed, grass, trees and lights along the driveway will certainly bring more life to your home’s exterior.
People also ask
What Makes a Beautiful House Exterior?
Beauty in a home's exterior is synonymous with harmony among its elements. Color, attention to detail, and a balance between the home's inherent architectural lines and the modern elements is key.
What Are the Best Colors for a Modern Exterior?
Nowadays, dark colors such as Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron, Sherwin-Williams Black Magic, and Benjamin Moore Gentleman's Gray for example, have gained popularity and give the house a more contemporary look. But light colors like Soft Pink and Cold White are also a great option.
What Are Energy-Efficient Upgrades for a Modern Home Exterior?
Insulated vinyl siding, energy-efficient windows, and green roofing are great options. With a growing interest in sustainability, it is wise to think about energy-efficiency when upgrading your home.
Are There Any Specific Architectural Features That Enhance a Split-Level Exterior?
Large windows, the addition of a front porch and modern façades can enhance the look and functionality of your split-level home.
