Curb Appeal: Winter Layers in Jamaica Plain

Photo by Danielle Ossher

Functional and chic—this Jamaica Plain exterior proves you can indeed have it all. The front entry boasts smart winter layers, with a beautifully detailed storm door over the substantial front door. But rather than weigh down the front entry, the two doors form a perfect duo: airy, welcoming, and cleverly stylish.

The Victorian-style design of the storm door, which features four large open panels framed by simple, gorgeous detailing, offers just the right amount of weight. Painted a stunning coral hue, the slim framing holds it own against the heavy door underneath without covering it up. In fact, its open design plays up the front door’s double windows, highlighting the best features behind it. Intricately carved brackets further define the entry, and the charming vignette is completed with stout house numbers and a classic wall mount lantern.

You, too, can transform your storm door into an key element of curb appeal. To avoid a bulky outer layer, select a style that’s at least half open—think slim framing and details around the glass, rather than mostly covered. If you crave the ornate nature of a Victorian-style design like this JP home, consider a style like this that features classic accents. But clean, straight lines are more you, just elevate the hardware store usuals with an unexpected color. A facade with such detail calls for hefty house numbers like these (pictured below) that won’t get lost in the shuffle. And illuminate your refreshed space with an of-the-era accent that’s both grounded and echos the elements, like this French Country lantern (pictured below).