You may not be able to easily change the architecture of your home, but the color is entirely up to you—and we’re not just talking about painting your front door black. Of the homeowners who invested in exterior accents to boost their home’s curb appeal, 31% focused on updating the trim, according to Houzz’s 2024 Outdoor Trends study. “I can’t believe what a difference it makes,” says Kirsten Blazek, interior designer behind A1000xBetter and author of A rebel with intentiononce told us: “It never ceases to amaze me.” The color of the upper trim? 28 percent of homeowners said they chose white for their exterior siding. followed by black (22%) and green (13%). Blue surprisingly came in last place with only 2% of the votes, and only 6% suggested choosing yellow or brown as an accent for their facade.
While white trim will match any exterior color, material, and style, it’s also a safe bet. If you’re not the type of homeowner who blends in with the rest of the neighborhood to blend in, consider these alternative ideas.
Black on blue
Since white is also the most popular color for exterior walls, we’re not surprised that black is the second most popular choice for trim: It makes doors and windows pop. But instead of going for the traditional, modern farmhouse look, pair it with an equally inky navy, like Beth Birkett did in her family’s LA home.
Green on white
Unless a house is, for example, bright purple, Blazek tries to save money by just touching up the trim. On this ranch-style house, which was originally white, she painted the French doors olive green and then painted the previously white shutters and door black to add more definition.
Red on brick
Using the red undertones of brick and purple steel doors and windows (they are painted in RAL Ruby Red), the facade of this London home is anything but traditional.
Yellow on yellow
Butter yellow is on trend right now and is perfect not only for pillows and ceramics, but also for the entire facade. A creamy pale yellow combined with a sunny hue gives this 1875 house in Charleston, South Carolina, a modern touch.
