Choosing exterior house colors is an important decision when building or renovating a home. The right colors can enhance your home’s architecture, create visual interest, and give your house an updated, modern look. When selecting exterior paint colors for a modern home, there are a few key elements to consider.
Current Color Trends
Some of the most popular color schemes for modern exteriors include neutral palettes, bright and bold hues, and color blocking. Here are some of the top color trends seen on contemporary homes:
Neutrals
Neutral paint colors are very common on modern exteriors. Shades of white, gray, brown, and tan create a simple, clean backdrop that allows other architectural details to shine. Some go-to neutral colors for modern homes include:
| White | Soft gray |
| Beige | Greige (gray + beige) |
| Light taupe | Warm white |
Crisp bright whites paired with charcoal blacks are also popular for a dramatic modern look. Neutrals work well as main house colors and as accent shades. They create a cohesive, sophisticated appearance.
Bold, Saturated Brights
While neutral schemes are common, bold vivid colors are also trending for modern exteriors. Deeply saturated bright hues make a dramatic statement and convey a contemporary vibe. Some eye-catching options include:
| Cobalt blue | Lime green |
| Coral | Red orange |
| Eggplant purple | Sunflower yellow |
These colors work best when used strategically on accent walls, front doors, window trim, or other exterior details. They create striking focal points against more subdued backgrounds.
Earthy Natural Tones
Natural earthy hues like greens, browns, taupes, and terracotta reds are also popular exterior choices. These colors complement modern architecture and provide a grounding, organic look. Great earth-inspired options include:
| Olive green | Clay red |
| Chocolate brown | Warm taupe |
| Grayish greens | Desert sand |
Blending these with neutral whites and grays results in a relaxed yet modern palette. Earth tones also connect the home to the landscape.
Color Blocking
Using color in graphic, geometric blocks is an eye-catching trend. This involves covering exterior surfaces or sections entirely in different colors for a bold, modern statement. For example:
| – A sage green front door | – Cherry red window frames |
| – Bright white facade | – Charcoal black roof |
Color blocking works well on modern designs with clean lines and angles. It helps define the architecture and dimensions.
Factors to Consider
When choosing exterior colors for a modern home, here are some factors to keep in mind:
Architectural Style
Select colors that complement the home’s specific modern style. For example:
| Contemporary – Neutrals like white and gray | Midcentury – Earth tones like browns |
| Modern Farmhouse – Light grays and greens | Modern Industrial – Black, grays, brick red |
Enhance, don’t overwhelm, the intended design.
House Shape and Size
Consider how colors will interact with the home’s structure. Bold colors suit simple geometric shapes, while complex designs look best in neutral palettes. Small houses can support brighter colors, while larger homes are balanced by milder tones.
Natural Surroundings
Choose colors that complement the environment. Earthy hues mirror lush greens, while neutrals recede into snowy landscapes. Make sure colors aren’t jarring against the backdrop.
Lighting
Colors look different in various light. Opt for lighter, warmer tones in mostly shaded areas and cooler hues in full sun. Always view color samples at different times of day.
Personal Taste
While following trends is fun, also pick colors you genuinely love. A color that complements your style will stay looking modern and fresh for years to come. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
Tips for Selecting Colors
Here are some helpful tips for choosing exterior colors for a modern home:
Limit Your Palette
Pick 1-3 main colors and 1-2 accent colors. Too many different shades can look busy and disjointed.
View Large Paint Swatches
Small paint samples don’t show how colors interact. Look at larger swatches on house materials or sectioned cardboard.
Look at Real Home Examples
Browse modern architecture magazines and websites to see colors used in real life. This gives a better sense than small paint chips.
Use Accent Colors Strategically
Vivid hues make more impact when used minimally on front doors, window frames, and other details.
Repeat Colors in Different Tones
Tie the palette together by using accent colors as darker or lighter versions of main hues.
Coordinate With Interior Colors
Pick exterior colors that match or complement interior paint choices to give the home a cohesive feel.
Use Neutrals as a Base
Neutral backgrounds like white, gray, and tan allow bolder colors to really pop. They create balance.
Let the Architecture Shine
Don’t overpower interesting architectural features with too many competing colors. Simple is best.
Consider Long-Term Curb Appeal
While trends come and go, well-selected neutral colors will maintain visual interest and modern flair.
Hire a Color Consultant
For a unified, professional exterior color scheme, consider hiring a designer or color expert.
Look for Inspiration
Check out exterior paint ideas on Pinterest, Instagram, and decor sites. Save images of color schemes you love.
Conclusion
The palette of exterior paint colors has a big impact on a home’s aesthetic. For a modern look, popular color schemes include neutral grays and whites, bold brights for accents, natural earth tones, and color blocking. Consider the architecture, setting, lighting, and your personal taste when selecting colors. Limit your palette, use neutrals as a base, and repeat hues in different tones. With the right exterior color choices, you can give your contemporary home maximum curb appeal and style.
