For inspiration, we called architect Darren Helgesen, who encounters all sorts of Colonial Revivals in his Amagansett, N.Y., practice. “Similar two-stories here run the gamut from basic early-American styles to more embellished Federalist homes,” he says. “This house can afford strategic touches of ornamentation.”

Facade Before

To start, he suggests adding a new portico for depth and a more formal entrance. Pilasters at the corners help frame the front, and dentil molding under the eaves and below the portico cornice introduce character-building detail. Working shutters provide texture and balance, and classic copper gutters tie the look together. “Pretty sharp,” says Lucas of the proposed changes. “It’s definitely where we’d like to go with the house.” For inspiration, we called architect Darren Helgesen, who encounters all sorts of Colonial Revivals in his Amagansett, N.Y., practice. “Similar two-stories here run the gamut from basic early-American styles to more embellished Federalist homes,” he says. “This house can afford strategic touches of ornamentation.”

Keeping Up Appearances

A custom mahogany door blends with the authentic character of the other cosmetic changes.

Better with Age

Unlacquered brass door hardware will develop a nice patina with age.

Address to Impress

Brass house numbers echo the style of the door hardware.

Colonial Character

Substantial box-beam columns give the portico welcome support.

Refreshing the Facade

Pilasters neatly frame the facade and echo the style of the portico columns.

Contrasting Shutters

Raised-panel red cedar shutters painted hunter green provide needed contrast.

Stylish Accents

Copper 5-inch half-round gutters add an authentic touch of class to the facade.

A New View

The head casing topping the first-floor windows anchors them on the facade and ties in with the other new moldings.

Finishing Touches: Siding

Warm-beige fiber-cement lap siding stands up to weather extremes. Jameshardie.com; about $1.50 per square foot

Finishing Touches: Door Knocker

A classic brass door knocker punctuates the welcoming front door. Baldwinhardware.com; about $69

Finishing Touches: Windows

Double-pane wood windows insulate far better than the original single-panes. Andersenwindows.com; from $700

Finishing Touches: Shutters

Raised-panel red cedar shutters add dimension to the colonial’s flat facade. Vixenhill.com; from $300

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