Timeless Hues: Discover Exterior House Colors That Captivated in 2019 and Remain Stylish Today
Choosing the right exterior color for your home is a significant decision. It’s an opportunity to express your personal style, enhance curb appeal, and even increase your property value. While trends come and go, some colors possess a timeless quality that makes them perennially appealing. Let’s explore some of the most beautiful exterior house colors from 2019 that continue to resonate with homeowners today. This guide provides expert insights into selecting the perfect palette, considering architectural style, regional preferences, and the latest design innovations. We’ll delve into specific color families, explore complementary accents, and offer practical tips for achieving a flawless finish. Get ready to transform your home’s exterior with enduring elegance.
Unveiling the Enduring Appeal of 2019’s Exterior Color Trends
The year 2019 brought a wave of sophisticated and nature-inspired exterior color trends. Homeowners moved away from stark, sterile palettes and embraced warmer, more inviting hues. This shift reflected a desire for comfort, connection to the outdoors, and a personalized aesthetic. While some trends are fleeting, the core principles of color harmony, architectural appropriateness, and regional sensitivity remain timeless. The colors that were popular in 2019 often emphasized these principles, contributing to their lasting appeal. Understanding these underlying factors is key to selecting an exterior color that will remain stylish for years to come.
Crucially, the move towards colors that harmonize with natural surroundings was a major theme. Think muted greens, earthy browns, and soft grays that seamlessly blend with landscapes. This trend wasn’t just about aesthetics; it also reflected a growing awareness of environmental consciousness and a desire to create homes that felt integrated with their environment. These nature-inspired colors continue to be popular choices, offering a sense of tranquility and timeless elegance.
Another significant aspect of the 2019 color trends was the emphasis on creating visual interest through contrast and texture. Homeowners experimented with combining different shades within the same color family or using contrasting accent colors to highlight architectural details. This approach added depth and dimension to the exterior, creating a more dynamic and visually appealing look. The use of textured finishes, such as stucco or wood siding, further enhanced the interplay of light and shadow, adding to the overall richness of the color scheme.
Exploring the Palette: Top Exterior Colors from 2019 That Still Shine
Several specific colors gained prominence in 2019 and continue to be popular choices for homeowners seeking a timeless and sophisticated look. These colors offer versatility, complement a wide range of architectural styles, and provide a solid foundation for creating a personalized exterior design.
- Warm Grays: Gray has been a dominant color in interior and exterior design for years, but the 2019 trend leaned towards warmer grays with subtle undertones of beige or brown. These greiges offer a more inviting and less stark alternative to cool grays, creating a cozy and sophisticated feel. Warm grays work well with a variety of accent colors, from crisp whites to bold blues and greens.
- Earthy Greens: Inspired by nature, earthy greens evoke a sense of tranquility and harmony. Sage green, olive green, and forest green were all popular choices in 2019, and they continue to be favored for their ability to blend seamlessly with natural landscapes. Earthy greens are particularly well-suited for homes surrounded by trees or greenery.
- Soft Blues: Light, airy blues reminiscent of the sky or sea offer a refreshing and calming aesthetic. These colors can create a sense of spaciousness and tranquility, making them ideal for smaller homes or homes in warmer climates. Soft blues pair beautifully with white trim and natural wood accents.
- Creamy Whites: While stark white can sometimes feel too sterile, creamy whites offer a warmer and more inviting alternative. These off-white shades have subtle undertones of yellow or beige, creating a cozy and classic look. Creamy whites are incredibly versatile and can be used on a variety of architectural styles, from traditional to modern.
- Charcoal Gray: For a bolder and more dramatic look, charcoal gray is an excellent choice. This dark, sophisticated color adds a touch of elegance and modernity to any home. Charcoal gray works particularly well with contemporary architectural styles and can be paired with bright accent colors for a striking contrast.
The Psychology of Color: How Exterior Paint Affects Perception
The colors you choose for your home’s exterior can have a significant impact on how it is perceived, both by you and by others. Different colors evoke different emotions and associations, so it’s important to consider the psychological effects of your choices. For example, blues and greens are often associated with calmness and serenity, while yellows and oranges evoke feelings of warmth and energy. Darker colors, such as charcoal gray or navy blue, can create a sense of sophistication and elegance.
Understanding the psychology of color can help you create an exterior that not only looks beautiful but also evokes the desired emotions and creates a welcoming atmosphere. Consider the overall mood you want to create and choose colors that align with that vision. Also, think about how the colors will interact with the surrounding environment and the architectural style of your home. A well-chosen color palette can enhance your home’s curb appeal and create a positive impression on visitors and passersby.
Complementary Colors: Creating Harmony and Visual Interest
Choosing the right accent colors is just as important as selecting the main exterior color. Accent colors can be used to highlight architectural details, add visual interest, and create a cohesive and balanced look. When choosing accent colors, it’s important to consider the color wheel and the principles of color harmony. Complementary colors, which are located opposite each other on the color wheel, can create a striking contrast and add a dynamic element to your exterior. Analogous colors, which are located next to each other on the color wheel, create a more harmonious and subtle effect.
For example, if you choose a warm gray as your main exterior color, you could use a crisp white for the trim and a bold blue for the front door. This combination creates a classic and sophisticated look with a touch of visual interest. Alternatively, if you choose an earthy green as your main exterior color, you could use a creamy white for the trim and a natural wood stain for the porch railings. This combination creates a more natural and organic feel that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
Architectural Style: Matching Color to Your Home’s Character
The architectural style of your home should play a significant role in your color selection. Different architectural styles lend themselves to different color palettes. For example, traditional homes, such as Colonial or Victorian styles, often look best with classic and elegant colors, such as creamy whites, soft blues, or warm grays. Modern homes, on the other hand, can handle bolder and more contemporary colors, such as charcoal gray, navy blue, or even vibrant shades of orange or yellow.
Consider the specific features of your home’s architecture when choosing a color palette. Highlight interesting details, such as decorative trim or intricate window frames, with contrasting accent colors. Use color to emphasize the unique character of your home and create a cohesive and visually appealing exterior. Researching the typical color palettes for your home’s architectural style can provide valuable inspiration and guidance.
Regional Considerations: Adapting Colors to Your Climate and Surroundings
Regional factors, such as climate and surrounding landscape, can also influence your color choices. In warmer climates, lighter colors are often preferred because they reflect sunlight and help keep the home cooler. In colder climates, darker colors can absorb heat and create a cozier feel. The surrounding landscape can also play a role in color selection. If your home is surrounded by trees and greenery, earthy greens and browns can help it blend seamlessly with its environment. If your home is located in a coastal area, soft blues and sandy beiges can evoke a sense of the sea and sky.
Think about how the colors you choose will look in different lighting conditions. Colors can appear different depending on the time of day and the amount of sunlight they receive. Test paint samples in various locations around your home and observe how they look at different times of the day before making a final decision.
Expert Tips for a Flawless Exterior Paint Job
Achieving a flawless exterior paint job requires careful preparation, the right tools, and attention to detail. Here are some expert tips to help you achieve professional-looking results:
- Prepare the surface: Thoroughly clean the exterior of your home to remove any dirt, mildew, or loose paint. Repair any cracks or damage before painting.
- Prime the surface: Apply a coat of primer to ensure proper adhesion and create a uniform surface for the paint.
- Choose the right paint: Select a high-quality exterior paint that is specifically designed for your climate and the type of surface you are painting.
- Use the right tools: Invest in quality brushes, rollers, and paint sprayers for a smooth and even finish.
- Apply multiple coats: Apply at least two coats of paint for optimal coverage and durability.
- Paint in the right weather: Avoid painting in direct sunlight or during periods of high humidity or rain.
Staying Current: How 2019’s Colors Influence Today’s Trends
While we’ve focused on colors that were popular in 2019, it’s important to understand how those trends have evolved and influenced today’s color palettes. The core principles of warmth, nature-inspired hues, and harmonious contrasts continue to be relevant, but there are also some new developments to consider.
For example, we’re seeing a resurgence of bolder and more saturated colors, such as deep greens, rich blues, and even vibrant reds. These colors are often used as accent colors to add a pop of personality to a more neutral base color. We’re also seeing a greater emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly paint options, as homeowners become more conscious of the environmental impact of their choices. Staying informed about the latest trends can help you make informed decisions and create an exterior that is both stylish and timeless.
The ROI of a Fresh Coat: Boosting Curb Appeal and Home Value
Investing in a fresh coat of exterior paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to boost your home’s curb appeal and increase its value. A well-maintained exterior creates a positive first impression and can make your home more attractive to potential buyers. Choosing the right colors can also enhance your home’s architectural features and create a more cohesive and visually appealing look. According to real estate experts, a fresh coat of paint can significantly increase your home’s resale value, making it a worthwhile investment.
Consider the potential return on investment when choosing your exterior color palette. While personal preferences are important, it’s also wise to consider the preferences of potential buyers and choose colors that are likely to appeal to a broad audience. Neutral colors, such as warm grays, creamy whites, and soft blues, are generally considered safe and versatile choices that can enhance your home’s marketability.
Finding Your Perfect Palette: Expert Advice for a Timeless Exterior
Selecting the perfect exterior color for your home is a personal journey that requires careful consideration of various factors, including your architectural style, regional climate, personal preferences, and the latest design trends. By understanding the principles of color harmony, the psychology of color, and the impact of regional factors, you can create an exterior that is both beautiful and timeless.
Remember to test paint samples in various locations around your home and observe how they look at different times of the day before making a final decision. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different color combinations and accent colors to create a unique and personalized look. And most importantly, choose colors that you love and that make you feel proud of your home. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can create an exterior that will enhance your home’s curb appeal and bring you joy for years to come.
Ultimately, the most beautiful colors to paint a house exterior with are those that reflect your personal style and create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere. By drawing inspiration from the timeless trends of 2019 and adapting them to your specific needs and preferences, you can create an exterior that is both stylish and enduring. Consider this guide your starting point, and let your imagination take flight as you transform your home into a true reflection of your unique taste and personality.