Tudor: Revival style
Between 1890 and 1940, the Tudor style gained prominence, peaking in popularity in suburbs built in the '20s and '30s, then reappearing again in the '70s and '80s. Its timber-framed woodwork, which is purely decorative, not structural, and charming leaded-glass windows evoke Medieval cottages; but other influences are evident, too, such as Gothic rounded or arched doors. It all combines to create a romantic yet rustic mood with enduring appeal. Increase a Tudor's curb appeal by adding stone to the façade or installing new leaded-glass windows.
Easy tips: Light, bright ideas
“Leave the porch light on!” That's if you want to up the curb appeal of your home. Effective lighting adds aesthetic appeal and increases safety. Follow these tips for a lighting scheme that will light up your life.
• Choose fixtures that reinforce the architectural style of your home. Heavy wrought-iron lanterns are perfect for a Tudor-style house. Check out reproduction lighting companies and larger lighting centres to find an architecturally appropriate style.
• Install path lights. There are many styles available in finishes like pewter, bronze and copper; any of these would work with a Tudor as long as they coordinate or complement other hardware and fixture finishes.
• Spotlight significant architectural features, such as a curved archway or stone wall, to draw the eye to these special elements.
Focus on windows
One challenge owners of older homes face is choosing historically sympathetic replacement windows. The Tudor style's highly detailed diamond-paned leaded-glass casements can present particular problems. Whatever the style of your house, spend a good deal of time researching this crucial feature that really sets the tone of your home.
Look for companies that have collections appropriate to the style of your home. The Liberty Collection from Pollard Windows, for example, has a maintenance-free vinyl-clad exterior and a wood interior for a traditional feel. Pollard also offers decorative glass options in custom configurations, so you can enjoy the beauty of leaded glass without giving up the energy efficiency and ease of use that new windows offer.
Focus on stone
The beauty of stone is enduring. Applied to a façade, stone gives a solid appearance to an exterior and seamlessly ties architecture to environment. While it's not a quick-fix solution to superficial curb appeal challenges, adding stone, especially to Tudor-style houses, will return your initial investment over time, and add character. While no one beats Mother Nature at making stone, some manufactured stone products offer a great alternative to waiting a few million years for new material. Arriscraft International's stone products are cement–free and made in a natural process that can include hand–chipping, rocking or tumbling for an aged look. To ensure you get natural-looking products like Arriscraft's stones, avoid manufactured products that are formed in a mould. Some advantages to using stone and stone products include:
• Reduced maintenance Stone never rots or needs painting.
• Instant old-home look Perfect for giving an aged appearance to new houses or additions.
• Highlights architectural features Stone can be added to a feature to draw attention to it, such as the stone detail around entryways on Tudor-style houses.
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