Hinsdale Exterior Makeover—Thoughtful Details Add Up
Viewed side-by-side in before-and-after photos, the change is stunning. But it can be challenging to pick out all the small (and not-so-small) exterior edits that make this Hinsdale home spectacular.
Built as a ranch, past owners had expanded with a second floor and rear addition. The current owners were happy with the structure but wanted to give it more character and make it their own.
Streetside changes enhance curb appeal
A key request, larger windows to provide views of the home’s manicured landscape, make a significant difference in the overall appearance. New roof details, including standing seam accents and an arch over the front door, make the entry more inviting and unify the facade. In addition, square columns were upgraded to a curved profile for greater depth and presence.
Several changes brought balance to the front elevation and helped play down the prominence of the large, peaked section to the right of the entry. The tallest part of the home, with a deep gable, small windows, and covered in siding and painted brick, it was the first thing to catch one’s eye. The Pickell team pulled up the gable to change the angle of the roof, added a box bay window to break up the space, increased the size of the windows, and extended the roof detail the full width of the house for an entirely new, softer effect.
What’s more, stonework replaced the brick, anchoring the home and keeping it from looking top-heavy.
Even the garage got an upgrade, with a new carriage door that fits with the home’s new unified style.
Changes to the back add livability and enjoyment
Many of the changes seen on the front of the home were carried through to the rear. The greatest enhancements were to the windows—gone are arched transoms in lieu of awning tops for a more modern look consistent with the rest of the design.
Sliding glass doors now offer easy access to the outdoor seating area, balanced by a box window at the kitchen. A hexagonal turret that houses the breakfast room now features large windows that let in the light and views.
Under the roof overhangs, large corner boxes where the soffits met were removed for a cleaner look, and decorative brackets were introduced to add a more refined touch.
Now, the home is living up to its potential and its owners’ vision, with character and presence to match its great bones and location.