Porch posts — Option 1: wrap in smooth PVC and paint

Install paintable PVC post wraps with simple square bases/caps for a cleaner, brighter column profile. Painted to match trim for a fresh, low-maintenance look. Existing posts remain as structure.

Porch posts — Option 2: sand and stain/paint existing

Prep existing posts (sand, patch, prime) and finish in either matching trim white paint or a light natural stain to tie in with siding selection.

Exterior lighting — larger, brighter fixtures

Replace existing porch/garage fixtures with slightly larger, clear-glass lights in matte black or satin brass for crisp illumination. Includes fixture install and seal at siding.

Hardware and numbers refresh

Upgrade house numbers, door hardware, and mailbox to a coordinated finish (matte black or warm brass) for a clean, modern pop.

Gutters/downspouts — color align with trim

Lightly scuff and repaint existing gutters/downspouts to match new trim (or swap front run to a prefinished color). Improves edge definition along the roofline.

Front bed refresh and light accents

Edge and re-mulch front bed with lighter mulch or blonde stone, add 3–5 low-maintenance, light-colored perennials, and install two warm-white solar path lights to visually lift the approach.

Exterior wash, scrape, sand, and mask

Thorough prep of all wood siding, porch posts, fascia/soffits, garage door, and trim. Includes plant/walkway protection, pressure washing, hand-scraping loose finish, orbital sanding rough spots, filling minor checks with exterior wood filler, spot-priming bare wood, and masking brick and windows.

Option A — Paint wood siding a light, warm neutral (brightest result)

Two-coat, high-build acrylic paint on all wood siding surfaces to dramatically lighten the façade while keeping brick untouched. Choose one of the palettes in the overview (e.g., SW Shoji White). Includes back-brushing for grain definition, caulking seams, and clean cut lines at brick.

Option B — Semi-transparent stain to lighten while showing grain

Strip/scuff existing finish as needed, apply wood-brightener where required, then a semi-transparent, UV-stable stain in a lighter cedar/sand tone. Preserves wood texture with a warmer, organic look than paint. Includes back-brushing for even penetration.

Trim, fascia, soffits, and eaves — crisp light paint

Recoat all non-brick trim elements (fascia boards, soffits, eaves, window/door trim) in a clean, soft white to frame the home and contrast the brick and new siding tone.

Garage door — repaint to coordinate with siding/trim

Degrease, scuff-sand, spot-prime, and apply two coats of exterior urethane-alkyd enamel in a soft white/greige that complements the new siding.

Front door — bold but classy accent color

Prep and recoat front door in a higher-contrast, welcoming color (e.g., BM Hale Navy, SW Evergreen Fog, or deep charcoal) with a durable exterior enamel.