Easy Ways to Boost Curb Appeal

Design garden spaces close to the house so they connect to—and become extensions of—interior rooms. At the home of Ohio garden designer Kevin Reiner, bushy green boxwood, cactus-filled urns and tall canna with orange blooms frame the short distance from the sidewalk to the front steps of the Greek Revival-style home.

Container plants, a pretty ruffled wreath, summery blue paint on the door and a rocking chair all create a welcoming front door area.

A complete remodel included a reimagined entry to this 1959 Chicago-area ranch house. The wood, stone and stained brick on the new wider porch create a cabinesque feel that continues into the foyer.

Flowers give a home instant warmth and personality. The porch of this Illinois house brims with hanging baskets of begonias, while a long planter chock-full of flowers and foliage substitutes for a window box on the porch railing. More flowers and foliage of varying heights fill the front yard.

Pops of red on the garage and two large containers add just enough color to this entrance. The wood railing, decorative planks above the porch and wood shingles share a basic neutral color but have intriguingly different shapes and lines. A path curves through garden-like landscaping to the front porch.

Benches aren't just for sitting. Here, a bench serves as a display area for container plants, watering cans and other gardening tools, lending an earthy, casual feel to the front entrance.

Just because lighting is basic doesn't mean the lights have to be. These elaborate beauties blend form and function.

Pretty posies in a sunny window box make a cheerful hello.

A cottage-style Dutch door swings open at the top to let in fresh air and create a connection between inside and outside. The vibrant yellow color makes an eye-catching statement on the otherwise all-white home. A bench, large wall lamp and assortment of plants give the entrance more welcoming touches.

Country or classic, choose a mailbox style that matches your home's architecture. Large house numbers ensure first-time guests find you easily. Pretty plantings at the base finish the look.

A wooden screen door adds old-fashioned charm, but the spicy hue keeps the look from being tame.

Walkway lighting adds a soft glow at night while safely leading visitors to your door. If you use solar versions, there is no wiring.

A large American flag, lush hanging ferns and front porch rockers combine for a welcoming entrance.

Changing out the hardware—even in subtle places like on shutters—enhances a home's exterior. Renewed locks, bells or knockers revitalize a look.

Container plants climbing the steps draw eyes to your door. Art tucked in adds whimsy.

Solid and safe, railings also add beauty when they are dressed as smart as these. Pristine white contrasts sharply with the wood steps and darker door.

Let everyone know where you are. This bold sign is easy to see even among lush plantings. Or hang the numbers under a light by the front door or on the mailbox.

Welcome mats come in all shapes and sizes. Make sure the one you put down fits your style. This wood one is engraved with the homeowner's name, others come with initials, images of favorite pets, and more. 

The front door is the perfect spot for a jolt of color that might otherwise overwhelm your home.

This detailed handle might not match your home style, but there is one out there that will. Don't settle for blah.

A front porch, even on a small house, can boost your home's curb appeal. Here, an eye-catching geometric motif gives charm to a basic porch railing, and curtains add to the feel of a welcoming outdoor room. 

Two antique shutters add shady style to this sunny front door. If you don't have antiques, use paint to re-create the look. 

New sconces and matching aged-bronze hardware, a coat of golden yellow paint, easy-to-apply house numbers and a pair of easy-care planters gave this front door a thorough update. Click here for more details on this project. 

Hanging artwork in bright shades says welcome in a happy way.

Contrasting green trim and log-lattice porch railings add charming cottage character to this cabin's facade.

For added elegance on an old door, add an ornate screen or carving as the homeowner's did over this mirrored door. 

Personalize your entry with a hand-painted doormat! We used a 24x36" sisal doormat, stencils and white matte outdoor spray paint to create our design.

Use your initials to monogram your front door. Not only is the initial on the planters and hanging, it's also etched into the glass.

A simple upgrade is to add a door knocker reflecting your hobby. 

Birdbaths, fountains, bubblers—water elements add a cooling touch of nature to a sunny front.

A white picket fence and breezy porch lend old-fashioned appeal to this home.

A driftwood hanger to the side of the door makes a pretty—and practical—personal addition to the entrance. The bright red door pops against the neutral tones on the rest of the exterior.

A formal pendant light and gold house numbers set a classic mood. Make sure yours suit your home's style.

Red, white and blue goes with every home style!

Here, the hanging container says it all. Flowers along the walk and in the container finish the look. 

Wall planters provide a welcome touch of greenery at eye level outside this home's door, while a garden bench and potted flowers create a cozy space to relax.

An assortment of pumpkins and two tall container gardens add eyecatching seasonal appeal to this home's entrance.