We bought our orange brick 1950s ranch-style house in Seattle six years ago. When I first shared the “before” photos, I knew many readers might struggle to picture the end result. It didn’t resemble the cottage-by-the-sea vision I had in mind. But with limited time and budget, we chose to focus on achievable changes that would make a meaningful difference.
With a modest budget we couldn’t gut the exterior or hire an architect to rework the structure, so we looked for small, high-impact updates. If you’re in a similar spot, pick a couple of things you can actually do and start there. For us, that meant painting and replacing the front door — baby steps that set the tone for future projects.
This photo above shows where we began. About five years ago we painted the brick white (Reserved White by Sherwin Williams) and installed two Dutch doors. The first time we painted the front door we chose a soft gray — it felt safe and subtle. This year I wanted something bolder: a vibrant blue that would evoke the coastal, cottage feeling I love.
I think the blue hydrangeas in the front inspired the new door color, or maybe it was simply my desire to bring a bit of seaside charm to our home. Even though the architecture isn’t a perfect match for my ideal style, the door could be. A happy blue Dutch door became a striking, welcoming focal point and helped define the home’s personality.
We chose a deep, joyful blue and couldn’t be happier with the result. The color transformed the house and exceeded my expectations. My husband and I find ourselves stepping outside often just to admire the door. It’s a small change with a big emotional payoff — suddenly we love the exterior of our little house just as much as the interior.
There’s still more to do: painting the porch, continuing to landscape, adding character elements like a trellis over the garage and replacing windows across the front. Those projects will come in time. For now, this door is one important step in the direction we want our home to go.
Today I want to celebrate the joy of creating a home you truly love. No matter your budget, timeline, or the style of your house, small, thoughtful changes can make coming home feel like an event. Paint and a new door are simple, affordable ways to start that transformation.
I also want to celebrate my bunny door knocker. That whimsical detail makes the house feel like me — a little quirky, a little playful. We actually have real bunnies hopping around our yard, so the knocker feels perfectly at home. Those personal touches are what turn a house into a happy place.
One more look at the before and after!
Check out more of our home makeovers and before-and-afters in the rest of the series!
Subscribe to my free newsletter to get updates on new posts, decorating ideas, exclusive subscriber content, and more.
You can also follow The Inspired Room on social media and join the community to ask decor questions and connect with others.
I’ll continue sharing plans and progress as we take more steps to bring cottage character to our 1950s ranch. Small changes add up — and this blue door reminds us that thoughtful updates make a home feel truly loved.