(Because Your House Deserves to Look Less Like 1974)
So here’s how this started: I was pulling into my driveway after a long day, and I realized something horrifying. My split level looked…tired. Not “needs a nap” tired—more like “hasn’t updated its wardrobe since disco was cool” tired.
It had that faded brick + brown vinyl + vaguely mustard trim combo that screamed, “We haven’t changed anything since the Bicentennial.” And don’t get me wrong—I love a good retro moment. But not when it makes my house look like a middle school from a sad TV drama.
After way too much Googling, Pinterest spiraling, and one minor crisis where I considered just planting a giant hedge to hide everything, I found the good stuff. These modern split level exterior ideas are the actual glow-ups I wish I’d known about before panic-buying paint samples.
Here are the upgrades that actually make a difference:
Paint It Greige (or Black, If You’re Feeling Bold)
Step one: ditch the weird tan. Modern split levels look 1,000% better in a soft greige, deep charcoal, or even matte black if you want drama. The right paint color can hide a multitude of architectural sins.
Pro tip: Don’t forget the trim. Crisp white or soft black makes everything pop.
Add Horizontal Wood Slats
Instant mid-century modern vibes. Cover part of the front facade or wrap a porch area—it adds warmth, texture, and “Yes, I saw this on Instagram.” energy. Bonus: hides siding you secretly hate.
Swap That Front Door (Like Yesterday)
If your front door still has that ‘70s oval glass insert… I’m sorry. A new, modern slab door—maybe in a bold color or natural wood—makes the entire house feel current. People will think you did a whole remodel.
Rework the Stairs & Entry
Split levels are notorious for “floating” front doors halfway up the wall. You know the look. Update with sleek metal railings, wide wood steps, or even a small landing. Suddenly, it feels intentional instead of confusing.
Clean Up That Roofline
Sometimes it’s not the paint—it’s the shape. A low-pitched gable or asymmetrical lines can feel off. Try adding a faux overhang, metal awning, or accent beam to sharpen things up. Boom—architectural detail.
Update the Garage Door
Yes, it matters. A big white square with fake windows isn’t doing you any favors. Try a modern paneled door, black steel, or even wood-look for that sleek Scandi-meets-California energy.
Mix Materials Like a Designer
Brick + wood. Stucco + metal. Stone + siding. Layering textures gives dimension and keeps the front from feeling flat. Just don’t go overboard—this is a house, not a tapas menu.
Kill the Shutters (Unless They’re Chic)
Fake shutters that aren’t wide enough to cover the window? Let them go. Replace with streamlined versions or go without. You’ll gain instant cool points and lose zero functionality.
Modern House Numbers = Tiny But Mighty
It’s a small change, but sleek address numbers in matte black or brushed brass can make your whole porch feel pulled together. Think “hotel chic,” not “mailbox confusion.”
Add Landscaping That Knows What It’s Doing
A few grasses, some boxwoods, maybe even a low stone retaining wall. Split levels often sit on sloped lots, so lean into that elevation with tiered plant beds or modern path lighting.
Fix the Lighting Situation
Those sad coach lights from 1983? Replace with matte black sconces or minimalist cylinder lights. Bonus if they have motion sensors that don’t accidentally blind your neighbors.
Go Monochrome With Trim + Siding
Want the house to feel taller, sleeker, and more modern? Paint the siding and trim the same deep color. It reads as one big, chic shape. Less visual chaos = instant calm.
Add a Pop with the Mailbox or Planters
Not everything has to be a huge project. Try modern planters in charcoal or terracotta near the door, or a modern mailbox that doesn’t rattle when the wind blows.
Frame the Entry With a Pergola
Want to fake architectural interest? Add a mini pergola over the door or walkway. It’s like eyeliner for your facade—subtle, but powerful.
Rethink That Awkward Split Level Window Placement
You don’t have to live with weird off-balance windows. Try black trim, matching shutters, or even exterior window boxes to bring cohesion where nature (and 1960s design) failed you.
Split levels get a bad rap, but with a few smart changes, they can go from “meh” to modern magic. You don’t have to tear it all down—just tweak what’s already there.
And if you’re standing in your driveway wondering if your house looks like a time capsule… you’re not alone. But trust me: one good coat of greige, a wood accent, and a cute front door, and suddenly you’ll be the house everyone slows down to stare at (in the good way).
Got a split level in need of love? Drop your curb appeal chaos in the comments. I’ve made the mistakes—let’s fix yours before you accidentally repaint it beige again.