Split-level homes hold a distinct architectural appeal that sets them apart from other styles. Their unique layout, with staggered floors and multiple elevations, offers homeowners an excellent canvas for creativity.
These homes, originally designed to maximize space on smaller plots of land, have become a symbol of mid-century practicality and modern charm. Over the years, their layered aesthetic has inspired countless exterior design possibilities.
The importance of curb appeal for split-level homes cannot be overstated. Not only does it enhance the first impression your home makes on guests and neighbors, but it also significantly impacts property value.
A well-maintained and thoughtfully designed exterior creates a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the care and attention put into the home. Whether you’re planning to sell or simply want to enjoy coming home every day, the exterior design matters as much as what’s inside.
Even small, thoughtful changes can completely transform a split-level home’s appearance. Whether it’s upgrading your front door, adding carefully selected plants, or refining your exterior color scheme, the smallest updates can make a big impact.
This article explores how split-level home design can be enhanced in ways that are visually striking, practical, and easy to execute, offering inspiration and tips for all homeowners.
Understanding the Split-Level Aesthetic
The Appeal of Split-Level Architecture
A house with split-level design features offers a layered, multi-dimensional look that distinguishes it from traditional single-story or two-story homes. The staggered floors often create opportunities for visual depth and interesting landscaping options.
For instance, a split-level home naturally lends itself to terraced gardens, which not only follow the structure’s design but also add a harmonious balance to the overall appearance. The windows in split-level homes often come in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing natural light to enter different areas of the house at varying angles.
This architectural feature creates opportunities to frame stunning outdoor views while simultaneously adding charm to the home’s facade. Many split-level homeowners take advantage of this by installing wide, horizontal windows that emphasize the home’s horizontal layout.
Additionally, the variety in elevation can make the exterior feel dynamic and full of life. From the driveway to the entryway, every level offers an opportunity to showcase unique design elements, such as distinct railings, steps, or planters.
For homeowners who love blending classic architecture with contemporary updates, this style is an ideal choice to experiment with creative combinations of siding materials, landscaping designs, and exterior accents.
Challenges of Split-Level Design
While the layered layout of a split-level home offers many design possibilities, it can also present challenges. One of the main issues is creating a cohesive exterior design.
With multiple levels and sections, it’s easy for the facade to feel disjointed if materials or colors clash. Achieving visual harmony requires careful planning, whether it’s through a consistent color palette, balanced landscaping, or well-coordinated lighting.
Another common challenge is dealing with sloped yards or uneven terrain, which are often associated with split-level properties. These elements, while adding character, require practical solutions like retaining walls, terraced plant beds, or well-planned pathways to make the space functional and attractive.
Without proper landscaping, a steep front yard can feel overwhelming rather than inviting.
Finally, the asymmetrical design of many split-level homes can make certain upgrades—such as replacing doors or windows—more complex. Standard products may not always fit seamlessly, which means custom solutions are often required.
However, these challenges are opportunities in disguise, as they allow homeowners to create a personalized, standout look that perfectly suits their needs and tastes. By understanding both the charm and challenges of split-level home design, homeowners can make informed decisions that enhance their curb appeal and highlight their home’s best features.
Every unique detail of this architectural style is an opportunity to create a lasting impression, one thoughtful enhancement at a time.
The Role of Siding and Color Palettes
The exterior siding and color scheme of a home play a crucial role in creating visual harmony and enhancing its curb appeal. For split-level house design, where multiple layers and elevations are already in play, selecting the right combination of colors and textures can tie the overall look together beautifully.
Modern Color Combinations
When choosing a color palette for a curb appeal split level house, consider how modern tones can create a fresh, polished look. Neutral tones like beige, slate gray, or soft greige provide a sophisticated base, while darker accents such as navy blue or forest green trims can create depth and contrast.
These pairings work particularly well on split-level homes due to their varied facades, helping to highlight different sections of the structure without overwhelming the overall design. Adding pops of bright white or deep black for the window and door frames offers a crisp finish that feels contemporary yet timeless.
Incorporating Textures
Textures bring character to the exterior and prevent the facade from feeling flat. Incorporating materials like horizontal siding, cedar shakes, or stone veneer adds depth while maintaining a cohesive design.
Horizontal siding works well to accentuate the home’s width, while cedar shakes bring in a touch of warmth and charm. Stonework, particularly when placed around the foundation or entryway, can ground the design while adding a natural element.
For homeowners renovating split-level homes, blending multiple textures often creates a balanced look that feels modern without losing its original architectural character.
Dark vs. Light Trim
One of the easiest ways to enhance the appearance of a split-level house is through trim design. Dark-framed windows or doors, especially in black or charcoal gray, create a striking contrast against light siding.
This approach feels sleek and modern while drawing attention to the architectural lines of the house. On the other hand, lighter trims paired with darker siding provide a soft, approachable look that works well in suburban neighborhoods.
Whichever route you choose, the trim serves as the finishing touch that ties the exterior elements together.
Highlighting Entryways for Maximum Impact
The entryway is often the focal point of a home’s facade, and for remodeled bi-level homes, it’s the perfect area to add personality and charm. A thoughtfully designed entrance not only invites guests but also enhances the overall curb appeal.
Front Doors that Stand Out
The front door is a statement piece for any home, and a split-level house is no exception. Bold colors like deep red, navy, or sunshine yellow can instantly draw the eye, making the entryway pop against neutral siding.
Modern materials like wood with sleek grain patterns or steel with clean lines offer a contemporary touch. A solid wood door with glass inserts can provide an appealing blend of tradition and modernity, while full steel designs add a striking industrial edge.
These options are particularly effective in giving a split-level home design a fresh, updated feel.
Lighting Matters
Lighting plays a crucial role in ensuring the entryway is welcoming at all hours of the day. Strategically placed wall sconces on either side of the door create symmetry and provide a warm glow that highlights the doorway’s design features.
Recessed lighting installed in overhangs or porch ceilings can further illuminate the space without adding visual clutter. For homes with layered elevations, pathway lights leading up to the entryway not only enhance safety but also highlight landscaping features, making the entire facade more visually appealing.
Adding Personal Touches
Small details around the entryway can make a big impact. Stylish planters with seasonal blooms or greenery add color and vitality to the area, while a wreath or door knocker introduces a bit of personality.
Custom house numbers in a contemporary font can modernize the look and provide functional appeal. For homeowners aiming to make their entrance unique yet cohesive, these touches ensure the space feels intentional without overpowering the design.
By focusing on the entryway, homeowners can create a lasting first impression that complements the overall look of their split-level home. From lighting to landscaping, these thoughtful updates reflect care and style, setting the tone for the rest of the property.
Windows: Framing the View
Windows play a pivotal role in enhancing the character and functionality of a split-level design, serving both aesthetic and practical purposes. Thoughtful window choices can bridge the gap between interior and exterior spaces while complementing the architectural style of the home.
Window Design Trends
Wide, horizontal windows are increasingly popular in split-level home design due to their ability to connect the indoors with the surrounding environment. These windows not only allow an abundance of natural light to flood interior spaces but also create panoramic views that make the home feel more open and inviting.
Their horizontal orientation aligns perfectly with the layered structure of a split-level house, drawing attention to the home’s unique elevation changes while emphasizing its modern design.
Black-Framed Windows
Black-framed windows have become a favorite choice for contemporary split-level homes. They add a bold, defined touch that contrasts beautifully with neutral siding or stone accents.
The sleek frames provide a modern edge, drawing the eye to the geometry of the windows without overpowering the overall design. Whether used in a renovated split-level house or a newly built one, these windows help achieve a balance between subtlety and striking detail, making them an excellent feature for homeowners aiming to modernize their exteriors.
Planter Boxes Under Windows
Adding planter boxes beneath windows is a simple yet impactful way to soften the home’s exterior and integrate greenery directly into the design. Filled with cascading plants or seasonal flowers, these boxes add color and charm while breaking up the hard lines of window frames and siding.
When selecting materials, options like wood, metal, or composite can be chosen to coordinate with the overall style of the house. For bi-level home design, where layering is a central theme, planter boxes help to mirror the structure’s multi-dimensional aesthetic while providing an inviting, natural touch.
Landscaping That Complements the Home
Landscaping is the canvas that surrounds a house, and for split-level homes, the outdoor design should enhance and echo the home’s architectural style. By incorporating thoughtful landscaping elements, homeowners can create a cohesive and welcoming exterior.
Tiered Planting Beds
One of the most effective ways to complement a split-level house is by introducing tiered planting beds. These multi-level arrangements align with the layered structure of the home, creating a visual flow between the house and the landscape.
Stone or wood retaining walls can be used to form these levels, offering an organized and polished appearance. Adding plants of varying heights and textures—such as ornamental grasses, shrubs, and ground cover—ensures that each tier feels distinct yet harmonious.
Tiered landscaping not only enhances curb appeal but also offers a practical solution for sloped yards.
Choosing the Right Plants
Selecting plants that thrive in your local climate is crucial for creating a low-maintenance yet striking landscape. For ornamental grasses, options like feather reed grass or blue fescue bring a soft, textured look.
Perennials like daylilies or hostas add color and return year after year. Evergreen shrubs provide structure, while flowering shrubs such as hydrangeas or spirea add seasonal interest.
By combining these elements, homeowners can design a yard that remains vibrant year-round while blending seamlessly with the split-level architecture.
Hardscaping Features
Hardscaping introduces structure and dimension to the outdoor space, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits. Stone paths that lead to the entryway create a welcoming feel, while retaining walls add definition to planting beds.
For modern appeal, consider concrete or metal planters that bring clean lines and durability to the design. These hardscaping features not only enhance the look of the home but also help to manage the natural slope often found in split-level yards.
Lighting the Landscape
Outdoor lighting is an essential element in any landscape, particularly for showcasing architectural and landscaping features after sunset. Pathway lights guide visitors to the entrance while adding a soft glow that highlights the walkways.
Uplighting around trees or shrubs can create dramatic effects, while subtle spotlights on retaining walls or stone accents emphasize texture and detail. For homeowners renovating a split-level house, adding lighting to key areas can significantly boost its nighttime curb appeal and create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
By integrating thoughtful landscaping and window enhancements, homeowners can transform their split-level home into a cohesive and visually stunning property. These updates not only increase curb appeal but also create a space that feels both functional and welcoming.
Elevating Driveways and Pathways
The driveway and pathways are often the first features to catch the eye, making them critical to the overall curb appeal of any split-level home. Thoughtful updates can transform these functional elements into visually pleasing accents that enhance the home’s character.
Creating Visual Flow
For a modern split-level house design, driveways and pathways should flow seamlessly into the rest of the exterior. Curved driveways can soften the angularity often associated with split-level structures, creating a sense of movement that complements the home’s multi-layered layout.
Modern concrete steps with clean lines are another excellent choice, especially when paired with minimalist landscaping. These steps can guide the eye naturally to the entryway, emphasizing the home’s unique design without overwhelming the space.
Using Stone and Pavers
Textured or colored materials, such as stone or pavers, elevate pathways from simple to standout. For instance, large-format pavers in neutral tones can add a modern edge, while cobblestone or flagstone pathways bring a timeless charm to a bi-level house design.
Contrasting materials, like mixing gravel with concrete borders, can add depth and variety to the design. These pathways are not only functional but also serve as an extension of the home’s style, tying the yard and house together.
Practical Considerations
While aesthetics matter, functionality should never be overlooked. Wide paths are a practical choice for accessibility, ensuring ease of use for all visitors.
Non-slip surfaces are particularly important for areas prone to rain or snow. To keep pathways well-lit and safe, integrated lighting along the edges can highlight the walkway’s design and improve visibility.
For a truly cohesive look, aim to use materials and colors that complement other elements of the exterior, such as siding or planters, to create a balanced and welcoming entryway.
Outdoor Seating Areas and Balconies
Outdoor spaces are an extension of the home and can be thoughtfully designed to add both functionality and charm. For split-level homes, these areas often include balconies or decks that take advantage of the home’s layered structure.
Balconies as Extensions of Living Space
Upper-level balconies are a hallmark of the split-level modern house design, offering unique opportunities to create inviting outdoor areas. Modern railings made of materials like glass or metal can provide an unobstructed view of the surroundings while still ensuring safety.
Adding seating arrangements, such as cushioned chairs or a small dining set, transforms the balcony into a functional outdoor retreat. For an updated split-level home, using durable, weather-resistant furniture keeps the space stylish and low-maintenance.
Incorporating potted plants or hanging greenery can further enhance the cozy, lived-in vibe of the balcony.
Deck Design for Split-Level Homes
Decks are an ideal way to blend outdoor living areas with the surrounding landscape. Multi-tiered decks can mimic the split-level structure, creating zones for dining, lounging, or gardening.
Natural wood decking adds warmth and complements the layered look of the home, while composite materials offer longevity and easy upkeep. By extending the deck slightly into the yard, homeowners can create a seamless transition from indoor spaces to outdoor relaxation.
Built-in seating or planters along the deck’s edge adds practicality while keeping the design clean and cohesive.
Enhancing Privacy
Privacy is an essential consideration for outdoor spaces, particularly in densely populated neighborhoods. Shrubs, hedges, or trellises with climbing plants can create natural screens without feeling overly enclosed.
For balconies, lightweight outdoor curtains or strategically placed latticework can provide coverage while maintaining an airy feel. These elements not only enhance the usability of the space but also add visual interest, making the seating area feel intentional and thoughtfully designed.
With the right balance of materials, layout, and functionality, outdoor seating areas and pathways can elevate the overall curb appeal of a split-level home, transforming practical spaces into highlights of the property.
Incorporating Modern Elements
Modern updates can redefine the look of remodeled split-level homes, seamlessly blending contemporary features with the original character of the design. By prioritizing minimalist aesthetics and sustainable elements, you can bring a fresh and timeless appeal to your home’s exterior.
Minimalist Design Choices
A sleek, uncluttered approach works beautifully with split-level design homes. Clean lines and muted tones—such as shades of white, charcoal gray, or earthy beige—offer a sophisticated backdrop for your home.
Simple landscaping, like gravel beds paired with evenly spaced shrubs or ornamental grasses, further enhances this refined look. Consider removing overly intricate details in favor of streamlined features, like understated front doors or slim-profile window frames.
Minimalist design thrives on balance and proportion, which are well-suited to the layered structure of split levels.
Using Metal Accents
Metal accents bring a touch of industrial-modern style to updated split-level houses. From railings on balconies to contemporary planters near the entryway, these elements add structure and durability while maintaining a chic aesthetic.
Black or dark bronze metal fixtures pair effortlessly with neutral siding, creating a striking contrast. For a subtler look, brushed steel or weathered copper finishes provide a softer effect while maintaining the modern vibe.
Incorporating these accents into light fixtures, house numbers, or mailbox designs can unify the exterior with subtle, consistent details.
Sustainability Features
Modern curb appeal also means being eco-conscious. Water-efficient landscaping, like xeriscaping, reduces the need for irrigation while maintaining a polished appearance.
Succulents, drought-tolerant plants, and native vegetation thrive with minimal water and upkeep, making them a practical choice. Solar-powered lighting not only illuminates the exterior but also minimizes energy consumption.
Solar path lights or motion-activated fixtures near the driveway are both functional and environmentally friendly, aligning with modern design principles while cutting down on long-term costs.
Enhancing Nighttime Curb Appeal
A well-lit exterior can dramatically improve the curb appeal split-level homes offer, ensuring your house looks just as inviting after sunset as it does during the day. Thoughtfully placed lighting highlights architectural features, enhances safety, and adds depth to the overall design.
Strategic Outdoor Lighting
Spotlighting key architectural elements is an easy way to draw attention to the beauty of your home’s design. For instance, aiming a spotlight at the textured stonework or layered siding of a split-level home creates subtle yet striking highlights.
Pathway lighting, whether in-ground or raised, not only guides visitors safely to the entrance but also accentuates landscaping elements. For homes with balconies, under-rail LED lights add a warm glow without being overly harsh, seamlessly integrating with the structure.
Layered Lighting Approaches
For split-level design homes, layering light sources ensures the entire exterior is well-lit without being overpowering. Wall-mounted fixtures near the front door, paired with recessed lighting under eaves, can illuminate different areas of the house while keeping shadows in check.
Uplights under trees or tall shrubs provide a dramatic effect, adding vertical interest to the yard. Combining multiple light types—such as soft ground lighting and targeted spotlights—creates depth and dimension, making the home feel welcoming and dynamic after dark.
Eco-Friendly Options
Energy efficiency is a priority for many homeowners, and lighting is an easy area to incorporate sustainable choices. LED fixtures consume significantly less energy than traditional bulbs and last longer, making them a smart investment.
Solar-powered lights, whether lining a driveway or placed in the garden, reduce energy costs while adding charm to outdoor spaces. Choosing energy-efficient options not only benefits the environment but also aligns with the forward-thinking philosophy behind modern split-level house design.
By thoughtfully selecting and positioning lighting, homeowners can highlight the beauty of their split-level modern house design, ensuring the home remains an inviting centerpiece at all hours of the day.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips
Curb appeal isn’t a one-time effort. For a house split-level design to consistently shine, it requires year-round care and thoughtful updates that adapt to the changing seasons.
By keeping the exterior fresh, you ensure that your home’s charm remains intact, no matter the time of year.
Keeping It Fresh Year-Round
Maintaining the exterior of a split-type house design means regularly addressing wear and tear caused by weather. In spring, focus on clearing away debris left by winter storms and checking for damage to siding, walkways, or gutters.
During summer, prioritize watering plants, repainting faded areas, and ensuring that outdoor spaces like balconies and seating areas are in top condition. Autumn calls for leaf removal and preparing the yard for colder months, while winter maintenance involves clearing snow and ice from driveways and pathways to ensure accessibility and safety.
Seasonal Planting
A split-entry design can benefit immensely from seasonal planting, which keeps landscaping visually engaging throughout the year. In spring, consider bright flowers like tulips or daffodils to add vibrant color.
Summer is perfect for hardy plants such as hydrangeas or ornamental grasses that thrive in the heat. For autumn, mums and goldenrod provide a rich seasonal palette, complementing earthy tones.
In winter, evergreen shrubs and potted arrangements of hardy plants maintain a lively appearance even in colder climates. Rotating plants by season ensures your home’s exterior feels fresh and inviting all year long.
Exterior Cleaning Checklist
No matter how well-designed a renovated split-level house design may be, it can’t shine without regular cleaning. Start with the siding—power washing or gently scrubbing with a cleaning solution can remove dirt and mold buildup.
Windows are another essential focus; clean glass not only improves the home’s overall appearance but also enhances natural light indoors. Walkways, steps, and driveways should be swept and occasionally deep-cleaned to keep them looking polished.
Regular upkeep prevents small issues from becoming larger problems, preserving the integrity and charm of your home’s exterior.
Conclusion
Curb appeal is more than just a buzzword; it’s a way to enhance your home’s exterior while expressing your personal style. From updating a split-type house design with modern materials to thoughtfully incorporating lighting, landscaping, and seasonal touches, every effort adds value and beauty.
Remember, even small updates can make a big difference. Whether you’re tackling the landscaping or refreshing the trim, start with manageable changes that align with your vision.
A cohesive approach will transform your split-entry design into a stunning statement that reflects both your creativity and the timeless charm of split-level homes. With a bit of care and attention, your home can stand out in any neighborhood and leave a lasting impression.
