Split-level homes bring a unique architectural vibe, but sometimes their exterior design just feels a bit tired or even a little mismatched. If you want to transform your split-level exterior into something modern and inviting, you can do it by updating materials, colors, and details.
Remember to repin your favorite images!
With the right tweaks, each level works together to create a sense of balance and visual interest.
When you understand the home’s staggered structure, you can highlight its strengths and smooth out any awkward transitions. Making smart choices with siding, roofing, and window placement brings a unified look, while landscaping and hardscaping help the house feel anchored to its lot.
You don’t always need a huge overhaul. Small changes like a new front door, better outdoor lighting, or a fresh walkway can make a surprising difference.
Pair these with bigger updates, like new rooflines or modern finishes, and you’ll really boost curb appeal and give your home lasting style.
Understanding Split-Level Home Exteriors
A split-level exterior usually combines staggered floors, asymmetrical layouts, and mixed materials. When architecture, finishes, and landscaping work together, these homes can really shine.
Key Architectural Features
Split-levels usually have three or four staggered levels connected by short staircases. The main entry often sits between upper and lower floors, acting as a central focal point.
You’ll probably see horizontal rooflines, big picture windows, and a garage that stands out. Many designs mix siding, brick, or stone to break up the massing.
Some homes have offset wings or projecting sections that define each level. These details add depth and dimension, but they can also make updates a bit trickier.
Common Exterior Challenges
Because of the staggered design, split-levels can look visually unbalanced if you don’t coordinate materials or colors. The garage sometimes takes over the front, which can pull attention away from the entry.
Rooflines and different wall heights can make it tough to create a unified look. Older split-levels often have small or oddly placed windows, which means less natural light and fewer design options.
Landscaping a sloped lot isn’t easy. You might need retaining walls, terraced gardens, or multi-level patios to make the yard both functional and connected to the house. Without those, the exterior can feel a bit scattered.
Popular Styles and Variations
Split-levels come in a few recognizable styles. The Mid-Century Modern split-level brings clean lines, low-pitched roofs, and big glass panels. A Traditional split-level uses brick, shutters, and gabled roofs for a classic vibe.
Some homes lean into Contemporary design with bold color-blocking, metal accents, and minimalist landscaping. Others go Rustic, using natural wood siding, stone veneer, and earthy palettes.
Regional factors play a role too. Coastal homes use lighter colors and weather-resistant materials, while colder climates often need steeper roofs and super-durable siding.
A well-chosen style helps you show off the best features of your split-level and tackle its exterior quirks.
Maximizing Curb Appeal
Even small, targeted updates can make a split-level look more inviting and cared for. Good landscaping, fresh colors, and clear house numbers all work together to boost the exterior.
Strategic Landscaping for Split-Levels
Split-levels often sit on slopes, so landscaping really matters. Try tiered planting beds or retaining walls to echo the home’s layers and create flow from yard to house.
Pick plants that thrive in your area to keep maintenance down. Evergreen shrubs give structure all year, while perennials like daylilies or hostas bring pops of color. You’ll get better balance by planting taller greenery near higher levels and shorter plants by walkways.
Add pathway lighting to guide guests and highlight features after dark. Mixing hardscaping—like stone steps or pavers—with softer plants ties everything together.
Choosing Modern Color Palettes
A new paint job can work wonders on a split-level. Neutral base colors like warm beige, soft gray, or greige look great on main siding. Pair them with darker accents like navy, charcoal, or forest green on trims or shutters.
If your home uses different siding materials, unify them with color. For example:
| Siding Material | Suggested Color | Accent Option |
|---|---|---|
| Horizontal siding | Light gray | Black trim |
| Stone veneer | Natural tan | White trim |
| Cedar shakes | Warm brown | Deep green trim |
Stick to two or three complementary shades. Too many contrasting colors can make things look chaotic, so keep it simple and let the home’s shape stand out.
Enhancing Entryways and House Numbers
The entryway sets the mood. A bold front door color like deep red, navy, or matte black draws the eye and makes the entrance pop. Add modern lighting that’s both stylish and practical.
Make sure your house numbers are big, easy to spot, and stand out from the siding. Try brushed metal on dark paint or black on light backgrounds.
Small touches—like seasonal planters, a fresh welcome mat, or a simple wreath—show you care and help create a great first impression.
Modernizing Exterior Materials and Finishes
When you update your split-level’s exterior, start with materials that look good and hold up over time. Durable siding, low-maintenance finishes, and a mix of textures give your home a fresh, modern feel and help it last longer.
Upgrading Siding and Facades
Swapping out old siding is one of the fastest ways to refresh your split-level’s look. Modern options like fiber cement, engineered wood, or high-quality vinyl handle weather and fading better than most older materials.
Go for horizontal lap siding for a streamlined look, or try board-and-batten for vertical interest. If you want something that’s easy to care for, fiber cement resists rot, pests, and warping—and it holds paint well.
Cover outdated brick or faux stone with new cladding for a polished finish. Update trim around windows and doors with crisp, modern profiles in a color that pops.
Incorporating Sustainable Materials
Sustainable materials help the environment and last longer. You can use recycled steel siding, composite cladding made from reclaimed wood fibers, or bamboo accents for a fresh, eco-friendly look.
Redoing walkways or patios? Stamped concrete mimics stone or pavers but uses fewer resources. It’s tough and needs less upkeep than traditional hardscape.
Energy-efficient picks like insulated siding or low-E window frames help keep your home comfortable and cut utility bills. Use low-VOC paints or stains to improve air quality around your place.
Using Mixed Materials for Visual Interest
Mixing materials on your split-level’s exterior breaks up big surfaces and adds style. Pair wood-look siding with smooth stucco or stone veneer for contrast.
For example:
| Material | Placement Idea | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Natural stone | Lower level | Adds weight and grounding |
| Smooth stucco | Upper walls | Creates clean, modern lines |
| Metal accents | Roof trim or railings | Adds sleek detailing |
Keep it balanced—limit yourself to two or three complementary materials. That way, you get depth and texture without making the design feel busy.
Windows, Doors, and Rooflines
Changing windows, doors, and rooflines can totally transform your home’s look and function. The right picks boost energy efficiency, ramp up curb appeal, and tie the architecture together.
Installing Energy-Efficient Windows
Switching to energy-efficient windows cuts heat loss in winter and keeps things cooler in summer. Look for low-E glass, double or triple panes, and insulated frames.
Modern windows often have bigger glass areas and slimmer frames, letting in more light and improving views. Try elongated windows or corner windows to break up flat surfaces and add interest.
Match window trim and frame finishes to your siding and roof for a pulled-together look. Black or bronze frames look sharp with neutral exteriors, while wood tones soften modern styles.
If you deal with noise, laminated glass can help block it while still being efficient.
Selecting Modern Doors
A new front door can really update your entry. Solid wood, fiberglass, or steel doors with clean lines work perfectly for a modern split-level.
Glass inserts—horizontal or vertical—bring in light but keep things private. Frosted or textured glass adds a softer touch.
Coordinate your front door’s finish with garage doors and window frames. For example:
| Door Material | Best Features | Maintenance Level |
|---|---|---|
| Fiberglass | Energy-efficient, resists warping | Low |
| Steel | Strong, secure, budget-friendly | Low |
| Wood | Warm, natural look | Medium to High |
Don’t forget the hardware. Matte black or brushed nickel handles and hinges go with most modern color schemes.
Refreshing the Roofline
Your roofline really shapes your home’s profile. Updating it can make a split-level look more balanced and current.
If you need a new roof, try a metal roof for durability and a crisp look. Metal panels come in colors that can match or contrast with your siding for a modern vibe.
Not ready for a full replacement? You can still refresh the roofline by adding overhangs, replacing fascia, or changing the roof color. A darker roof grounds the design, while a lighter one makes the house feel taller.
Line up the roofline with windows and doors for a more intentional, cohesive look.
Outdoor Lighting and Artistic Elements
Good lighting and artistic touches make your split-level’s exterior safer and more interesting. Lighting boosts safety and highlights features, while art brings personality to outdoor spaces.
Pathway Lights and Safety
Pathway lights guide visitors and help prevent trips at night. Install them along walkways, steps, and driveways to create a clear, well-lit route.
Pick low-voltage LED fixtures for energy savings and long life. Solar-powered lights work if your paths get enough sun.
Space lights evenly to avoid dark spots. Use shielded fixtures to cut glare and keep light where you want it. Try a mix of ground-level stake lights and recessed step lights for both safety and style.
Accent Lighting for Architectural Details
Accent lighting draws eyes to your home’s best features—think textured siding, rooflines, or standout windows. Wall-mounted uplights highlight vertical surfaces, while downlights bring out horizontal lines and overhangs.
Spotlights can showcase landscaping that fits your architecture, like a cool tree or a stone wall. Pick warmer color temps for a cozy look, or cooler ones for a modern edge.
Here’s a quick table to match light type to purpose:
| Lighting Type | Best Use | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Uplight | Walls, columns, trees | Dramatic emphasis |
| Downlight | Overhangs, patios, entry | Soft wash of light |
| Spotlight | Focal plants, sculptures | Strong highlight |
Aim lights where you need them and try not to overdo it—too much light can wash out the details.
Incorporating Outdoor Art
Outdoor art brings personality and can really become the main attraction in your yard or garden. Maybe you’ll go with metal sculptures, ceramic pieces, or even murals that vibe with your home’s style.
Place art where you’ll notice it from the street and from inside your house. Add lighting to show off these pieces at night, but don’t let it cast harsh shadows.
Pick materials that actually last outdoors, like powder-coated metals or weather-resistant stone. Think about the size—big pieces look best on open lawns, while smaller ones fit right in on patios or near your entry.
Swap out or update your art every so often, just to keep things feeling fresh and interesting.
Water Features and Green Enhancements
Bringing natural elements into your exterior design boosts curb appeal and makes things feel more inviting. Water and greenery add texture, movement, and a few environmental perks to your place.
Adding a Fountain or Water Feature
A water feature, when you place it well, can really pull focus in your yard. For split-level homes, a fountain by the entry or along a walkway catches the eye and softens the transition between levels.
Pick a style that actually matches your home’s architecture. For example:
| Home Style | Recommended Water Feature Style |
|---|---|
| Midcentury Modern | Geometric, low-profile fountain |
| Traditional | Tiered stone fountain |
| Contemporary | Sleek, stainless steel design |
Keep the size in check. A small bubbling urn feels right in a tiny front yard, but a big cascading wall feature fits a larger landscape.
Add some lighting to show off the water at night, and pick a pump that doesn’t use much energy. Clean the filters and keep algae under control so your feature stays looking sharp and running well.
Implementing a Green Roof
A green roof can really boost both the look and performance of your split-level home. When you cover a flat or gently sloped roof section with vegetation, you get more color, some seasonal flair, and extra insulation.
This idea fits especially well on garage roofs, porch overhangs, or lower-level extensions. The extra greenery absorbs rainwater, helps cut down heat gain, and even gives local pollinators a hand.
When you start planning, think about:
- Weight load – Make sure your roof structure can handle the extra soil and plants.
- Plant selection – Try drought-tolerant sedums, native grasses, or low-maintenance groundcovers.
- Drainage – Install proper waterproofing and drainage layers so you protect the building.
If you get your green roof professionally installed and keep up with seasonal maintenance, it can last for decades. You’ll get something that looks great and helps the environment, too.