Double wide manufactured homes offer unique opportunities for exterior design and customization. These spacious dwellings can be transformed into visually appealing residences that rival site-built houses in terms of curb appeal. Thoughtful exterior design choices can significantly enhance a double wide’s aesthetic value and potentially increase its resale value.
Materials play a crucial role in the exterior appearance of double wide homes. Siding options range from traditional vinyl to more upscale choices like fiber cement or engineered wood. Trim details, such as decorative shutters, window casings, and corner posts, can add architectural interest and depth to the facade. Roofing materials also contribute to the overall look, with options including asphalt shingles, metal panels, or even faux slate tiles.
Color selection is another important aspect of double wide exteriors. Bold hues can make a statement, while neutral tones create a timeless appeal. Accent colors on trim, doors, and architectural features can add visual interest and highlight the home’s best attributes. Landscaping further enhances the exterior aesthetics, softening the lines of the structure and creating a welcoming approach to the home.
Historical Context of Exterior Styles
Exterior home styles have evolved dramatically over the centuries, reflecting changing societal values, technological advancements, and artistic movements. These styles have left lasting impressions on residential architecture, shaping neighborhoods and defining eras.
Colonial Revival and Its Influence
Colonial Revival architecture emerged in the late 19th century as a nostalgic return to America’s colonial past. This style emphasized symmetry and traditional elements like columns, shutters, and multi-pane windows.
Key features include:
- Central front door with decorative crown
- Evenly spaced windows
- Simple, rectangular shape
- Side-gabled roof
Colonial Revival homes often incorporated Georgian and Federal design elements. The style remained popular through the mid-20th century, influencing suburban development across the United States.
Craftsman Home Characteristics
Craftsman homes gained popularity in the early 20th century as a reaction to the ornate Victorian style. This architectural movement emphasized handcrafted details and natural materials.
Distinctive Craftsman features:
- Low-pitched gabled roofs
- Wide eaves with exposed rafters
- Tapered square columns supporting a front porch
- Built-in cabinetry and woodwork
Craftsman homes often used earth-toned color schemes and incorporated local materials. The style promoted a connection to nature and showcased skilled craftsmanship.
The Emergence of Midcentury Design
Midcentury modern architecture flourished from the 1940s to the 1970s. This style embraced simplicity, integration with nature, and new construction techniques.
Hallmarks of midcentury design:
- Large windows and sliding glass doors
- Open floor plans
- Flat or low-sloped roofs
- Integration of indoor and outdoor spaces
Midcentury homes often featured post-and-beam construction, allowing for more open interiors. The style emphasized functionality and clean lines, rejecting ornate decorations.
Bauhaus and Modern Exterior Evolution
The Bauhaus movement, originating in Germany in the 1920s, significantly influenced modern architecture. Its principles of form following function and embracing industrial materials shaped exterior design.
Bauhaus-inspired features:
- Flat roofs
- Smooth, white exterior walls
- Ribbon windows
- Minimal ornamentation
As modern architecture evolved, it incorporated Bauhaus ideals while experimenting with new forms and materials. Glass, steel, and concrete became prominent in exterior designs.
Spanish Colonial and Tropical Style
Spanish Colonial architecture, rooted in the American Southwest and Florida, adapted to tropical climates. This style blends Spanish and indigenous influences, creating distinctive exteriors.
Characteristic elements:
- Red tile roofs
- Stucco walls
- Arched doorways and windows
- Courtyards and patios
Tropical variations of Spanish Colonial incorporate features like wide overhangs and verandas to provide shade. The style emphasizes indoor-outdoor living and uses materials suited to warm, humid climates.
Exterior Materials Overview
Double wide homes offer a variety of exterior material options to enhance curb appeal and durability. These choices range from classic to contemporary, allowing homeowners to customize their dwelling’s appearance and functionality.
Brick as a Timeless Option
Brick exteriors provide a timeless elegance to double wide homes. This durable material offers excellent insulation and fire resistance. Brick comes in various colors and textures, from traditional reds to modern grays. It requires minimal maintenance and can last for decades.
Homeowners can choose between full brick exteriors or brick accents to create visual interest. Brick veneer is a lighter alternative that offers similar aesthetics at a lower cost. This material pairs well with other siding options for a mixed-material look.
Wood Siding for a Natural Look
Wood siding brings warmth and natural beauty to double wide exteriors. Cedar and pine are popular choices due to their resistance to decay. Wood shingles offer a rustic charm, while clapboard siding provides a classic appearance.
Wood requires regular maintenance, including painting or staining every few years. It’s susceptible to moisture damage and pests, but proper treatment can mitigate these issues. Wood siding allows for easy repairs and replacements of individual boards or shingles.
Vinyl Siding and Its Versatility
Vinyl siding is a versatile and low-maintenance option for double wide homes. It comes in a wide range of colors and styles, including options that mimic wood grain. Vinyl is resistant to fading, denting, and moisture damage.
This material is lightweight and easy to install. It doesn’t require painting and can be cleaned with simple soap and water. Vinyl siding is cost-effective and energy-efficient, with some varieties offering added insulation.
Metal Siding for a Modern Feel
Metal siding provides a sleek, modern look for double wide exteriors. Aluminum and steel are common choices, offering durability and resistance to fire and pests. Metal siding comes in various colors and finishes, including matte and glossy options.
This material is low-maintenance and can last for decades with proper care. It’s recyclable, making it an eco-friendly choice. Metal siding reflects heat, potentially reducing cooling costs in warmer climates. Some styles can be installed vertically or horizontally for added design flexibility.
Enhancing Architecture with Aesthetics
Thoughtful aesthetic choices can dramatically elevate a double wide’s exterior. Strategic use of color, finishing touches, and lighting work together to create a cohesive and appealing look.
Color Dynamics in Home Exteriors
Exterior color selection plays a crucial role in a home’s visual appeal. A neutral primary color like soft gray or warm beige provides a versatile backdrop. Bright accents on trim, shutters, or doors add personality and visual interest. Blues, reds, or greens can create eye-catching focal points.
Consider the home’s surroundings when choosing colors. Earth tones blend well in wooded areas, while coastal homes often feature light, airy palettes. Climate also impacts color choices – lighter shades reflect heat in warm regions, while darker hues absorb warmth in cooler climates.
Test colors on small exterior sections before committing. Observe how they look in different lighting conditions throughout the day.
Adding Character with Exterior Finishing
Modern finishing touches can significantly enhance a double wide’s curb appeal. Decorative shutters frame windows and add a traditional touch. Architectural trim around doors and windows creates depth and visual interest.
Stone or brick veneer on the lower portion of walls adds texture and a sense of permanence. Fiber cement siding offers durability and a range of style options, from wood-look planks to sleek panels.
Consider these exterior accents:
- Decorative porch columns
- Window boxes for plants
- Stylish house numbers
- Attractive mailbox
- Coordinated exterior light fixtures
Mixing materials, such as combining siding with stone accents, creates a custom look that elevates the home’s overall aesthetic.
Exterior Lighting for Ambiance
Well-planned exterior lighting enhances safety and creates a welcoming ambiance. Path lights guide visitors safely to the entrance. Wall-mounted fixtures on either side of the front door provide balanced illumination.
Uplights positioned at the base of architectural features or landscaping elements create dramatic shadows and highlight the home’s best features. Soffit lighting under eaves adds a warm glow and accentuates the roofline.
Consider energy-efficient LED bulbs for long-lasting, cost-effective lighting. Motion sensors on security lights conserve energy. Timers ensure lights turn on at dusk and off at dawn.
Experiment with different bulb temperatures – warm white (2700-3000K) creates a cozy feel, while cool white (3100-4500K) offers a modern, crisp look.
Decorative Elements and Accents
Decorative elements and accents can transform a double wide exterior from ordinary to extraordinary. These details add personality, visual interest, and curb appeal.
Window Boxes and Exterior Shutters
Window boxes bring color and life to double wide exteriors. Choose boxes that complement the home’s style and fill them with seasonal flowers or greenery. For a cohesive look, match the box material to other exterior elements.
Exterior shutters frame windows and add character. Opt for functional shutters that can close or decorative ones fixed in place. Materials range from wood and vinyl to composite. Select colors that pop against the siding or blend harmoniously.
Consider coordinating shutters with other accents like the front door or trim for a polished appearance. Properly sized shutters should appear to cover the entire window when closed.
Distinctive House Numbers and Fonts
House numbers are both functional and decorative. Large, modern digits in metal finishes make a statement. For a classic look, choose raised numerals in bronze or brass.
Unique fonts add personality. Script styles suit traditional homes, while sans-serif fonts complement contemporary designs. Consider custom-made numbers for a truly distinctive touch.
Placement matters. Mount numbers where they’re easily visible from the street. Popular spots include near the front door, on a porch column, or on a dedicated plaque.
Gable and Metal Roofing Options
Gable roofs add visual interest to double wide exteriors. These triangular sections can be accented with decorative trim, contrasting paint, or unique materials like cedar shakes.
Metal roofing offers durability and style. Standing seam panels create clean lines for a modern look. For a rustic feel, consider corrugated metal in weathered finishes.
Colors range from traditional neutrals to bold hues. A metal roof in a contrasting shade can become a focal point. Some options mimic other materials, like tile or slate, for added versatility.
Landscape and Hardscape Integration
Integrating landscape and hardscape elements creates a cohesive and inviting exterior for double wide homes. Thoughtful design choices blend natural and built features to enhance curb appeal and functionality.
Designing a Welcoming Front Porch
A well-designed front porch serves as a transitional space between indoor and outdoor areas. Choose durable, weather-resistant materials like composite decking or treated wood for the porch floor. Install railings that complement the home’s style, such as wrought iron for traditional looks or cable systems for modern aesthetics.
Add comfortable seating options like rocking chairs or a porch swing to create an inviting atmosphere. Incorporate potted plants or hanging baskets to soften the hardscape elements and introduce color.
Consider lighting fixtures that enhance safety and ambiance, such as wall sconces or pendant lights. A stylish doormat and house numbers complete the welcoming entrance.
Transitional Hardscaping Elements
Integrate hardscaping elements to connect different areas of the property seamlessly. Use pathways made of pavers, flagstone, or gravel to guide visitors from the driveway to the front door. These paths can curve gently to add visual interest and soften straight lines.
Incorporate retaining walls to manage elevation changes and create distinct outdoor spaces. Choose materials that complement the home’s exterior, such as stacked stone or textured concrete blocks.
Add raised planting beds along walkways or against the house to blend hardscape and landscape elements. These structures provide visual interest and opportunities for diverse plantings.
Landscaping for Visual Balance
Create a balanced landscape design that enhances the double wide’s appearance. Plant trees strategically to frame the home and provide shade. Choose species appropriate for the climate and mature size to avoid future maintenance issues.
Incorporate a mix of shrubs, perennials, and ornamental grasses to add texture and color throughout the seasons. Use foundation plantings to soften the transition between the home and surrounding landscape.
Consider installing a low-maintenance lawn alternative like groundcover or native plants in areas where grass struggles to grow. Add mulch to planting beds to retain moisture and create a polished look.
Personalization and Local Considerations
Personalizing a double wide exterior involves balancing individual style preferences with neighborhood aesthetics. Thoughtful customization can create a unique and appealing home that complements its surroundings.
Incorporating Personal Taste
Exterior color schemes offer a prime opportunity for self-expression. Homeowners can select paint colors that reflect their personality while considering the home’s architectural style. Bold accent colors on doors or shutters can add visual interest.
Landscaping choices also allow for personalization. Native plants, flower gardens, or decorative shrubs can enhance curb appeal and showcase individual preferences. Custom lighting fixtures, house numbers, and mailboxes further contribute to a distinctive look.
Architectural elements like porches, decks, or pergolas can be added to suit lifestyle needs and aesthetic desires. These features not only personalize the home but also extend living space outdoors.
Aligning with Neighborhood Style
Researching local architectural trends helps ensure a double wide exterior harmonizes with nearby homes. This may involve adopting similar roofing materials, siding styles, or color palettes common in the area.
Adhering to homeowners’ association guidelines, if applicable, is crucial. These rules often dictate acceptable exterior modifications, paint colors, and landscaping choices to maintain neighborhood cohesion.
Balancing personal taste with community norms can be achieved through subtle customizations. For example, unique door hardware or window treatments can add individuality without clashing with surrounding homes.
Consulting local real estate professionals or architects familiar with the area can provide valuable insights on blending personal style with neighborhood aesthetics.
Planning Your Exterior Remodel
Preparing for a double wide exterior makeover requires careful consideration of needs, budget, and professional assistance. A well-planned approach ensures a successful transformation that enhances both aesthetics and functionality.
Assessing Needs Beyond Aesthetics
Evaluate the current condition of your double wide’s exterior. Look for signs of wear, damage, or outdated features. Consider energy efficiency improvements like better insulation or upgraded windows. Assess accessibility needs, such as adding a ramp or widening doorways. Think about how the exterior can complement your lifestyle, like creating an outdoor living space or improving storage options.
Prioritize repairs and upgrades based on necessity and long-term value. Address structural issues first, followed by energy-saving measures. Aesthetic changes should come last in the planning process.
Budgeting for Your Exterior Makeover
Create a detailed budget for your exterior remodel. Research costs for materials, labor, and permits. Get multiple quotes from suppliers and contractors to compare prices. Factor in a contingency fund of 10-20% for unexpected expenses.
Consider financing options if needed, such as home improvement loans or home equity lines of credit. Explore potential tax incentives for energy-efficient upgrades. Prioritize spending on high-impact areas that offer the best return on investment, like siding replacement or a new roof.
Break down costs by project phase to manage cash flow throughout the remodel.
Choosing the Right Contractor
Select a contractor with experience in double wide exterior remodeling. Check their licenses, insurance, and references. Request detailed written estimates from at least three contractors. Compare their timelines, materials, and warranty offerings.
Ask about their familiarity with local building codes and permit requirements. Discuss communication preferences and how they handle changes or issues during the project. Ensure they understand your vision and budget constraints.
Sign a clear, comprehensive contract that outlines all work to be done, materials to be used, payment schedule, and project timeline. This protects both parties and sets clear expectations for the remodel.
Trends and Future Directions
Double wide exteriors are evolving with a focus on minimalist aesthetics and sustainable practices. These emerging trends are reshaping how manufactured homes look and function.
Exploring Minimalist Exterior Ideas
Modern exterior designs for double wides emphasize clean lines and uncluttered facades. Large windows and sliding glass doors create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection. Neutral color palettes with white, gray, and beige tones dominate, allowing architectural features to stand out.
Sleek metal accents and simple geometric shapes add visual interest without overwhelming the structure. Some homes incorporate elements inspired by mid-century modern or Scandinavian design for a timeless appeal.
Minimalist landscaping complements these streamlined exteriors. Native plants, rock gardens, and carefully placed statement trees enhance curb appeal while reducing maintenance needs.
Adopting Sustainable Practices
Eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient features are becoming standard in double wide exteriors. Recycled composite siding mimics the look of wood but offers superior durability and lower environmental impact. Solar panels integrated into roofing systems generate clean energy.
Rainwater harvesting systems collect and store water for landscaping use. Native, drought-resistant plants reduce water consumption and support local ecosystems.
Smart home technology optimizes energy use through automated lighting, heating, and cooling systems. These innovations not only reduce utility costs but also minimize the home’s carbon footprint.
Manufacturers are exploring new insulation materials and construction techniques to improve energy efficiency. These advancements help double wides meet or exceed energy standards for traditional site-built homes.