Sunterra Blog

9 Tips for Creating a Welcoming Front Exterior

Posted on Friday, August 29, 2025

When it comes to homes, you want the exterior to be as welcoming as the interior. Whether it’s passersby, delivery folks, or relatives, the outside of your house sets the stage —and like it or not, first impressions are everything. How do you make your home stand out? We’ve got some tips:

Pick Your Home’s Style

Choosing a home in Sunterra by Starwood Land means choosing your elevation. Think of it as your home’s red-carpet outfit. From modern to traditional, Sunterra builders offer a range of architectural styles to suit every taste. Love clean lines? Go for something contemporary. Obsessed with classic charm? Opt for a more timeless design. It’s all up to you.

Choose Your Paint

Your home’s exterior colors play a huge role in setting the tone for your space. Cozy shades like soft creams, gentle tans and earthy oranges give off a friendly and timeless feel. Match your main color with trim that pops. Go lighter for a crisp vibe or darker for a bold touch. Make sure your front door, shutters and other accents work together for a polished, pulled-together look that’s pleasing to the eye.

Find the Perfect Front Door

When choosing a door, think about how it looks and works. A taller door can really stand out, especially for homes with higher ceilings or modern designs. Don’t be afraid to play with bold colors like warm reds, deep blues or light yellows to add some character. Match the door’s vibe to your home’s overall look, whether you prefer something sleek and simple or with detailed designs.

Design Well-Lit, Easy-to-Walk Pathways

A well-lit path isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it sets the tone for a welcoming vibe before guests even knock on your door. Make sure it’s spacious, smooth and free of anything that could trip someone up. Soft lights along the edges help folks find their way after dark and add a nice touch of charm.

Landscape for Curb Appeal

A neat, well-maintained lawn paired with clean garden beds makes an immediate positive impression. Start with a mix of plants that suit the Texas climate like native shrubs, colorful flowers and maybe a small tree to provide shade and visual interest. Don’t forget to layer your landscaping. Combine varying heights and textures to create a dynamic look. Regular maintenance is key, so trim, mulch and water to keep everything looking its best.

Make Your Home Smart

Incorporate smart home technology to add convenience and modern flair to your front exterior. A smart doorbell with a camera provides peace of mind, while smart locks let you grant access to guests even when you’re not home. Motion-sensing lights and programmable exterior lighting schedules make sure your home is always welcoming, whether it’s early morning or late evening.

The Light is Right

The right lighting can completely transform your home’s exterior, making it feel warm and inviting. Wall lights near your front door can create a welcoming glow, while hanging fixtures above give a polished look. Choose soft, warm bulbs to keep the overall vibe comfortable and approachable.

Add Plants and Doormats

Nothing says welcome quite like a fresh, vibrant plant or a thoughtful doormat. A pair of potted plants on either side of the door adds symmetry and a touch of greenery. When choosing a doormat, think of it as a chance to add personality. Whether it’s a playful design, a classic monogram or a seasonal theme, it’s a simple way to tie everything together while keeping dirt outside where it belongs.

Extra Porch Space?

If you’ve got space, add a bench, chair or even a cozy bistro table to your front exterior. These elements invite guests (and you) to linger and enjoy the fresh air. A bench with cushions can be both functional and decorative, while a small seating area gives your porch a café-like vibe. These touches not only boost curb appeal but also encourage a sense of community as neighbors stroll by and stop to chat.

Create a Front Exterior That Feels Like Home

Ready to create a front exterior that feels like home before you even step inside? Visit Sunterra and chat with our experienced builders. They’ll help bring all your new home dreams to life.