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Before & After: A 1950s Facade Gets an Update

Regina Yunghans
Regina Yunghans
Regina is an architect who lives with her husband and children in Lawrence, KS. As a LEED Accredited Professional and longtime contributor to Apartment Therapy and The Kitchn, her focus is on healthy, sustainable living through design.
updated May 4, 2019
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(Image credit: Before image provided by homeowner, Kelly)

This home was owned by the same family since it was built in the 1950s, so when Kelly and Dave purchased it a few years ago, there were lots of updates to be made. One such project was bringing the exterior of the home up to date.

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(Image credit: Regina Yunghans)

Removing the shutters was “a big deal”: a decision that came after much consideration by the new homeowners. We think they did the right thing- look how much lighter the new facade looks! Fresh gray paint subdues the contrasts and helps the siding fit in with the original brick and the woodsy-feeling yard.

Landscaping was nearly nonexistent when the couple purchased the home. Now plantings surround the bases of two large trees in the front yard and frame the new brick walkway to the front door.

In the end, the original facade seemed to be fighting the style of the home, whereas the renovated one actually seems more in keeping with the mid-century modern period during which it was built. What do you think?

See the interior of this renovated 1950s home:

House Tour → Kelly and David Open Up

Filed in:
Architecture
Before & After
Outdoor Plants & Spaces
Renovating