First impressions count, and your home's exterior is the first impression of your home to friends and family (to casual passersby, it is the first impression). only Impression). As we prepare for winter and wait for the next few cold months, you can use these 2025 trends as inspiration for your spring home projects.
Multi-layered lighting
“Using outdoor lighting similar to indoor lighting makes the garden more inviting, dramatic and full of personality,” explains Joanna Hartman, principal at Page Paul Architecture & Interiors in Austin, Texas. For example, a living room might have a chandelier, floor lamp, and table lamps, all serving a different purpose and mood, and you can apply the same concept outdoors too. In one project, Hartman says, her firm used low step lights to safely illuminate the walkway, gas lanterns for romance and nostalgia, and pendant lights in a tree for unexpected drama.
Regenerative landscaping
This is more than just a buzzword – it's about using beneficial and native plants, healthy soil, stormwater management and natural materials in your garden so that it can thrive as an ecosystem on its own. “You can also add elements like rain gardens, cisterns, permeable pathways and edible plants to your sustainable oasis,” says Brandy Hall, founder and CEO of Shades of Green Permaculture in Avondale Estates, Georgia. “They will support local wildlife, attract environmentally conscious buyers and even counter negative impacts of climate change such as floods and drought.”
Strong color
If you thought outdoor space was limited to neutral hues, think again. Kristen Brown, director of architectural operations at Clayton Korte in San Antonio and Austin, Texas, says she has noticed an increase in clients asking for more playful color palettes for the exteriors of their homes. One such place is decorated with white brick, sage green metal windows and deep blue stucco. “It is also important to me that the exterior materials and colors fit consistently from the outside of the house to the interior,” she adds. “This results in a more consistent design experience throughout the building.”
Bricks in current condition
The painted brick debate is far from over, but according to Abby Davis, principal architect at Walcott Adams Verneuille Architects in Fairhope, Alabama, the more sustainable, lower-maintenance approach is putting it behind them. Although she admits that “sometimes painting the bricks really is the best option,” she still insists that “there are ways to enhance your home to better blend in with the existing bricks.” By painting windows and Trim, removing or adding shutters, and painting your front door can let you see it in a whole new way. (But if you Are (Since Davis is determined to paint your brick, he recommends a luxurious, dark color with an undertone that matches your roof.)
Private outdoor areas
Even small gardens can feel luxurious if you know how to design them—and for Brown, that means creating separate, natural zones. “Sitting areas hidden in and around plants can create an intimate experience,” she suggests. If you're working with a larger budget, a plunge pool is another option that's both functional and aesthetic.
Statement doors
“A front door isn’t just the obvious entrance to a home – it’s an opportunity to reflect the homeowner’s personality and really enhance the home’s style,” Davis emphasizes. Adding trim, painting it a specific color, and using unique hardware can be just as transformative as completely replacing the door.
Handcrafted details
It's more convenient to enhance your exterior with off-the-shelf products, but Laura Bryant, PLA and senior associate at Word + Carr Design Group in Austin, Texas, recommends getting a little more creative. “Think about how useful elements like gates and handrails can be more interesting and unique,” she explains. “Hire a local maker to create something that specifically fits your style.” Choosing a moment or two for handcrafted elements will almost certainly make your garden special.