Thank you everyone! Budget this time is smaller- however we were talking about a larger scale project in the future- adding the gabled roof and a porch and extended seating area/conversation area. Thoughts about adding dormers on top? Would anyone be able to add in a porch and convo area? Maybe outdoor fireplace? Shorter term i was debating adding two more sets of shutters at the other end- i see some people suggest removing? And was also wondering about the paint colors w the bottom brick and upper—. I do love the grey and blue color scheme- i was wondering if they should be variance in their shade it doesn’t quite seem complete. Landscaping was recently added by prior owners so its tiny thus far— def want to add more!!

If you're looking at landscaping as part of what might be changed, you'd need better pictures that show the full span of the front yard. Place the camera in line with the front door while standing at the city walk. Pan from far left to far right, taking slightly overlapping pictures that include space beyond the right and left sides of the house. (Keep the camera at same position for all pictures so they can be "reassembled" into a single perspective view. Don't substitute a computer generated panorama as it will be too small to see detail.)

Hi Jan, I actually do have a consult with an architectural firm today to discuss 'the plan'. I wouldn't dream of touching anything that requires professional precision like hardscaping. I was merely asking for some ideas so I don't go in blind; hence I said 'tweaks and large projects'. Also, I can do some tweaks on my own; I don't believe painting trim or hanging house numbers requires anyone else other than myself.

For the backyard, instead of expanding the patio, try creating a separate "room". You don't need to add a building, just add a path to a place. If the room is in between places or heavily used you should pave or gravel it. If it's a private place to relax go with lawn. If you need privacy the quickest way is a fence or trellis. You can also set off a room with low shrubs or flowers, or rock work or sculpture.