How to Choose the Exterior Paint Color for a 1956 House

Your mid-century 1956 house may be a ranch, a Cape Cod or an Eichler-designed home, but all architectural styles are enhanced by the right paint colors. The 1950s were bold, optimistic years in American history, and colors and styles often echoed national sentiment. Choosing your exterior paint colors doesn't have to be a difficult task. Choose colors you find pleasing while taking into consideration your period home's architectural style. Taking a systematic approach to color selection allows you to find a color combination that increases your home's curb appeal.

Paint color swatches
Paint samples
Brush

Instructions

- 1
  Consider both your 1956 home's architectural style and those of surrounding homes, suggests the Paint Quality Institute. Drive around your neighborhood and take note of similar homes and appealing paint color combinations.
- 2
  Choose paint colors that match or complement the decor of your home's fixed assets, such as the colors of the roof, decks, fencing and masonry.
- 3
  Research your home's history if you want to replicate authentic 1956 paint colors. Look up old photographs, or use a paint scraper to uncover some of the previous colors your house was painted.
- 4
  Research period paint colors on paint manufacturer's websites or pick up color palette ideas from paint stores. Most major paint companies offer suggestions for exterior paint colors based on the age and style of your home.
- 5
  Identify a main paint color for the siding, at least one trim paint color and an accent color to highlight elements such as your front door, shutters and railings.
- 6
  Apply test samples of your top favorite paint samples directly to your house. This allows you to see what the color looks like "in real life" before purchasing paint that may not turn out as you expected.

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