These days, colonial homes may not be that common. But their unique aesthetics is something that grabs everyone’s attention. These homes follow classic colonial architecture. This style of architecture is gorgeous, classic, and forgiving. It’s a style that captivates and holds a special aura that hasn’t been duplicated since. 

However, some don’t value this style, and while it’s best to leave it alone, some may find themselves needing or wanting to modernize a colonial home. Compared to newer traditional and modern homes, colonial homes have very different exteriors. That’s why it can be challenging to modernize their exterior.

There are many tips on how to modernize a colonial home, read more to learn of them.

 

 

WHAT IS A COLONIAL HOME?

 

With more formal entryways and classical exteriors, many still prefer colonial homes. As the name indicates, they follow colonial architecture, a style that was popular during the colonial time-frame. For America, this produces a startling, unique style. There has been no style quite like it since it’s origination.

Colonial homes are typically characterized by their large, symmetrical facades and historically accurate details. They boast beautiful aspects and features that are hard to replicate in modern designs. Because of this, many choose to preserve these gorgeous historical homes. The most common elements of the colonial style include a central front door with a pediment above it, shuttered windows in groups of two or three, and a chimney at one end of the house.

 

 

EXTERIOR COMPONENTS OF A COLONIAL HOME

 

There are many common exterior components of a colonial home, such as:

Symmetrical windows

Most of these homes have gabled roofs.

Wood, brick, or modern vinyl siding

Striking features and symmetry.

Often includes large porches and classical features/aspects.

 

 

MODERNIZE A COLONIAL HOME 

 

Sometimes working to modernize a colonial home can be an intimidating task. And many choose to preserve the classic beauty that these homes have, rightfully so. However, some find themselves in a place where modernization is necessary, but how would one go about it?

 

1: UPDATE THE TRIM AND SIDING

 

Replacing the old, siding with a modern fiber cement or vinyl option can instantly give your colonial home a fresh new look. And don’t forget to add some bold trim accents to emphasize the home’s architectural features.

 

2. ADD DIFFERENT COLORS TO THE EXTERIOR

 

Repainting the home in bold, modern colors can really make it stand out. Choose shades that are complementary to the existing color scheme of your neighborhood and home. A different color is a great yet subtle way to modernize a colonial home. 

 

3. ADD OUTDOOR LIGHTING

 

Installing outdoor lighting is a great way to add a modern touch to your colonial home exterior. For example, you could use solar lights or low voltage wired lighting to light up pathways, steps, and other areas of your property.

 

4. INSTALL A MODERN DOOR

 

Replacing the front door of a colonial home with a modern one can really add some character to the exterior of your colonial home. Choose something that will fit in with the style of your house and add a pop of color or an interesting design element. Adding a modern door is an exceptional, non-destructive way to modernize a colonial home. 

 

5. UPGRADE YOUR WINDOWS

 

Upgrading your old, single-pane windows to modern energy-efficient double-pane ones can make a huge difference to the look of your home. It will also help you save on heating and cooling costs in the long run. Often, colonial homes have very distinct windows. When looking to modernize a colonial home, the windows are a great place to begin. 

 

6: UPGRADING THE HOUSE ROOF

 

You can also upgrade the exterior of your colonial home by opting for a customized roof. For example, you can opt for an asphalt roof instead of a metal style gabled roof. Of course, there are other roofing options in this regard. Updating a roof is a great step when trying to modernize a colonial home. 

 

Similarly, by painting your newly installed roof, you can give a distinctive look to your colonial house. However, it’s worth mentioning that you’ll need to check with a builder first to ensure that your roofing material is paintable, and to also make sure that you’re using the correct type of paint. Doing so gives an amazing visual impact, without having to redo any roofing.

 

WHAT ABOUT THE INTERIOR OF YOUR COLONIAL HOME?

 

Like the exterior, you can also upgrade your colonial home’s interior. Now, the architectural design may not allow for all modern upgrades. But there are many add-ons that you can opt for. There are many ways to add modern touches without having to do too much heavy lifting, such as:

 

1: UPGRADING THE KITCHEN

 

You can change the cabinet work of your colonial home kitchen. For example, opting for some customized wooden cabinets may be a good idea here. Similarly, glass kitchen cabinets can also be used. They may be expensive, but they look outstanding. You may also wish to update the kitchen windows, or if possible, add a sunroof to your kitchen ceiling.

 

2: UPGRADING THE BATHROOM

 

Next up, we have the bathroom. Colonial homes have simple bathroom designs. The bathrooms often feature claw-foot tubs and outstanding porcelain features.

Should you upgrade the bathroom, consider selling or donating the original fixtures. Because colonial homes have such recognizable bathrooms, when looking to modernize a colonial home, the bathroom is a great place to start. 

You may upgrade the bathroom in a variety of modern ways. For help visualizing this, contact us today for a complete visualization. You may upgrade everything from the shower to the cabinets, and then some.

 

When updating a colonial home, there’s a lot to consider. There are so many aspects that you can customize. For instance, you can upgrade everything from the doors to the trim on the bathroom wall.

Upgrading your home is something that’s personal, and your upgrades should match your own personal style. There are still ways to modernize a colonial home while preserving some history and injecting your own flavor. 

 

Colonial homes feature styles and aesthetics like no other, and for this reason, many choose to maintain this style and preserve it for future generations. When this isn’t possible, modernizing your colonial may be the only way to go. There are plenty of great ways to modernize the interior and exterior of your colonial home. For ideas and help visualizing this modernization, consider contacting us today.

 

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