Exterior Design Colors

Consider Landscape Area

• Consider landscape colors when choosing a paint color. Trees, for example, are earthy greens and browns. At a beach, the colors of the water, sand and beach life will affect the color. Flowers and plants should be complementary to the paint color.

Existing Features

• The roof, stucco or brick color won't change. Vinyl windows, wooden doors or concrete steps all remain the same. The color chosen for the home should harmonize with these features. The paint should be visually balancing with the fixed elements.

Consider Neighborhood Houses

• Choose colors that set your home apart, yet complement adjoining buildings and homes. Bright paint colors in a traditionally painted neutral palette will make the home an eyesore in the neighborhood.

History of the Home

• Choose exterior paint colors for an older home that are historically accurate to the area. Refer to historic paint charts or photographs from the era for ideas on the correct colors. For example, Victorian-style homes are often referred to as the "painted ladies" because they often have six or more colors of trim and accent colors. The craftsman style, on the other hand, often sports dark, earth tones such as deep brown or green.

Quality Paint

• A good quality paint can withstand the elements much better than a cheaper type. It may cost more, but over time it saves money because it lasts longer.

Trim and Accent Color

• Trim and accent colors add the finishing touch to an exterior design color scheme. Keeping the trim lighter than the main color is a good idea. Darker trim colors give the home a picture frame look; trim painted the same color as the body of the home looks unfinished.