What’s Your Home Exterior Design Style?
HOME EXTERIOR DESIGN FLORIDA
Home Exterior Designs That Wow
Your home’s exterior is like the cover of your favorite book—it sets the stage for what’s inside, makes a statement, and should feel uniquely you. But with so many design styles out there, how do you find the one? Are you drawn to timeless elegance, modern flair, or a mix of both? No matter your vibe, discovering your dream home exterior design starts with a little inspiration (and maybe a touch of daydreaming).
5 Home Exterior Styles That Make Coming Home a Pleasure
That’s why we’re pulling back the curtain on five stunning projects from Lisa Gilmore Design, each with its own unique personality. From bold color choices to architectural eye candy, these homes prove that curb appeal is so much more than just a pretty front door. Let’s dive in!
British West Indies-Inspired Home Exterior Design
Imagine stepping into a tropical retreat without leaving home. That’s exactly the vibe of this 5,500-square-foot stunner in Snell Isle, St. Petersburg. Inspired by the homeowners’ love for the British West Indies, this new build is all about light and breezy sophistication. Think crisp white walls, wooden columns, dreamy louvered shutters, and oversized windows that flood the home with natural light. It’s like vacationing in paradise—without the packing.
BRITISH WEST INDIES HOME EXTERIOR STYLE
Transitional Elegance Meets Maximum Curb Appeal
Also nestled in Snell Isle, this new construction home takes a completely different approach. With sleek lines, a striking wood front door, and a low-profile tiled roof, this home is the definition of modern elegance. It’s statuesque yet inviting—a masterclass in making a statement without shouting.
photo: Snell Isle Home Exterior
TRANSITIONAL HOME EXTERIOR FLORIDA
A Waterfront Escape with Caribbean Charm
photo: Venitian Isles Home Exterior
Once upon a time, this Venetian Isles home was hidden behind a jungle of overgrown plants. Enter Lisa Gilmore Design and poof!—the home got a serious glow-up. Now, its vibrant turquoise shutters, charming roof overhang, and crisp white exterior give it the perfect tropical touch. It’s fresh, it’s fun, and it’s got that effortless island getaway feel—exactly what every waterfront home deserves.
WATERFRONT HOME VENITIAN ISLES FLORIDA
VENITIAN ISLES HOME BEFORE
Mid-Century Modern Masterpiece
MID-CENTURY MODERN HOME ST PETERSBURG
If this home could talk, it would probably say, “Oh, you think you know mid-century modern? Think again.” Designed by the late, legendary architect William Harvard, this one-of-a-kind home in the exclusive Bayway Isles community is a love letter to straight lines, gentle curves, and geometric perfection. To make the entrance truly stand out, we chose a stunning aqua door with custom millwork, adding just the right amount of character and color. It’s bold, it’s breathtaking, and we’re obsessed.
CUSTOM MID CENTURY DOOR TAMPA
Mediterranean Home Exterior Design Makeover
MEDITERRANEAN HOME EXTERIOR DESIGN MAKEOVER
This 5,500-square-foot Clearwater home started as a classic Mediterranean mansion—think bold yellow stucco and old-school charm. But with a fresh coat of soft white paint, it got an instant glow-up! Paired with its original terracotta tile roof and stone driveway, the result is a modern Mediterranean dream—timeless, elegant, and effortlessly chic.
photo: Mediterranean Home Before
FAQs: Your Hottest Questions about Home Exterior Design
1. How do you design your house outside?
Designing your home’s exterior is part science, part art. Start with a cohesive color palette that works with your architecture and natural surroundings. A bold front door (hello, personality!) or elegant hardware can instantly elevate your entryway. Landscaping is everything—lush greenery, layered flower beds, and statement lighting can work wonders. Architectural details like shutters, trim, and stone accents add depth and character. And don’t forget about outdoor furniture and cozy lighting—because your exterior should feel like an extension of your home’s personality.
2. How much does an exterior designer cost?
Like any great investment, hiring an exterior designer comes with a range of pricing. Depending on the scope, location, and level of customization, you might spend anywhere from $1,500 to $15,000 (or more). Some designers charge hourly rates between $100 and $300, while others offer package deals. Big factors like landscaping, architectural changes, and premium materials can add to the cost—but the boost in curb appeal and home value? Totally worth it.
3. What is the trend in home exterior design in 2025?
Get ready for a year of organic textures, sustainable materials, and statement-making details. Warm, earthy color palettes—think deep greens, rich browns, and soft terracotta—are making homes feel cozy yet sophisticated. Black and charcoal exteriors? Still going strong for that bold, modern aesthetic. We’re also seeing a rise in mixed materials (wood, stone, and metal combos), oversized windows, and seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces. And with sustainability top of mind, expect energy-efficient features like solar panels and smart outdoor lighting to become must-haves.
With home exterior designs, the possibilities are endless. It’s not just about picking the right color or material—it’s about creating a space that makes you excited to pull into your driveway every day. And that is where the magic begins.
Inspired to give your home a fresh new look? Let’s make it happen! Fill out our design inquiry form and we’ll contact you for more details. To get more tips, see our projects, and find ideas for adding liveable glamour to your home, follow me on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter.
Lisa Gilmore Design is a full-service interior design firm based in Tampa Bay, Florida, specializing in luxury, one-of-a-kind spaces. We believe in mixing artisan-crafted pieces, antique treasures, and custom details to create homes with soul. Serving homeowners in Clearwater, St. Petersburg, South Tampa, Hyde Park, and beyond.
An Interior Designer’s Itinerary for Paris Design
Paris Design: The Ultimate Adventure for Interior Design Lovers
If you’re a design lover, there’s no place quite like Paris to spark your creativity—and Lisa’s recent trip to Paris Déco Off was the ultimate Paris design adventure.
From strolling through fabric-lined streets to discovering the latest trends from the world’s top luxury brands, her week was filled with inspiration at every turn. But beyond the showrooms and exhibits, Paris itself became part of the experience—charming cafés, historic architecture, and hidden design gems that made this trip one for the books. Ready for a peek inside Lisa’s design-filled Paris itinerary? Let’s dive in!
Lisa’s Paris Design Adventure: All the Details
For this stylish getaway, home base was a luxury Airbnb nestled in the heart of a Passage near Les Grands Boulevards. “I shared this apartment with two friends, and it was in the perfect location—easy to get around, and we felt right in the center of everything.”
Paris Design Days 1 & 2: Déco Off—A Textile Wonderland
Paris Déco Off is like Fashion Week for interior designers—except instead of haute couture gowns, it’s all about sumptuous fabrics, jaw-dropping wallpapers, and impeccably crafted furniture. Lisa, a longtime fan of the event, was in her element.
“When I was younger, I vowed to one day go to Maison&Objet. It’s the event, the pinnacle of design. When I finally made it in 2018, it felt like a career milestone,” she shared. Déco Off, an offshoot of Maison&Objet, brings together independent and large brands and makers from across the globe.
“I saw a marble company from Atlanta that does these insane, fully encased marble islands. There were furniture designers from Sweden. And I remember in 2018, I discovered a British interiors company called House of Hackney. I instantly fell in love with them, and now they’re a household name.”
Paris Design Trends: What’s In?
Paris is the epicenter of style, so naturally, it sets the tone for the latest trends in interior design. Here’s what caught Lisa’s eye:
Warm, earthy tones are in! Rust, terracotta, and skin tones are making waves. “People are paying more attention to colors that make them feel good,” Lisa observed.
Jewel tones are still having a moment. Deep greens—everything from moss to peacock—were everywhere.
Unexpected color combos. “I saw this pairing of citron and rusty red that was just electrifying. It created this dynamic contrast that was both fresh and timeless.”
Paris Design Day 3: Flea Market Treasures
No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the legendary flea markets, and Lisa made her way to Paul Bert Serpette with her friend, Michelle Gage, a fabulous designer in Philadelphia.
“My friend was sourcing for clients, but since none of my projects were in the accessory phase yet, I went purely to soak it all in. Everything I see goes into my ‘inspiration bank.’ I might not need a particular artist or lighting designer today, but a few years down the road, the perfect project will come along, and—bam!—I know exactly where to find them.”
Paris Design Days 4 & 5: Letting Inspiration Lead
Monday was supposed to be a trip to Maison & Objet, but a scheduling mix-up turned into an unexpected opportunity: a leisurely day of exploration.
“We wandered, shopped, and got inspired. I love visiting different hotel bars, having a cocktail, and taking in the design. In Paris, everything has a unique identity. No two brasseries look alike. Whether it’s a historic terrace with intricate millwork or a modern, swanky spot with glam touches, every space tells its own story. I love letting my curiosity lead the way—seeing a doorway or a window that catches my eye and saying, ‘Let’s pop in and see what’s inside.’ That’s how I love to travel.”
Lisa’s Must-Visit Parisian Restaurants
Design inspiration works up an appetite! Here are Lisa’s favorite culinary stops:
Tigermilk- A fantastic Mexican restaurant in Sentier
Rosetta 9– An incredible Italian eatery so exclusive it doesn’t even have a website or reservations
Chez Fernand Christine– A classic French restaurant in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Camille – A charming brasserie where Lisa tried escargot for the first time, located near vintage clothing shops
A Creative Pilgrimage: The Yves Saint Laurent Museum
Lisa was blown away by the Yves Saint Laurent Museum in Marrakech, so visiting the Paris museum was a must.
“It was stunning—the exhibit was inspiring, and the floral designs were breathtaking. The best part? Walking into his actual studio! I didn’t even realize it was there, so stumbling upon it felt like stepping into a creative sanctuary.”
Lisa’s fourth trip to Paris certainly won’t be her last.
“The French share my love of antiques and vintage. The flea markets here are unlike anything else—huge, overflowing with character. You could spend days wandering and still not see everything. The French don’t just buy new, mass-produced pieces; they embrace history, uniqueness, and craftsmanship. That’s the beauty of working with a designer—finding those rare, meaningful pieces that tell a story.”
FAQs: The 411 on Paris Design
1. What is Paris design?
Paris design is all about effortless elegance with a mix of old-world charm and modern sophistication. Think grand moldings, herringbone floors, and vintage finds paired with sleek contemporary pieces. It’s a carefully curated balance—nothing looks overly planned, yet every detail feels intentional. Parisian interiors embrace neutral palettes with pops of color, luxurious textiles like velvet and linen, and a touch of the eclectic, like an ornate mirror or a statement chandelier. The result? A space that feels timeless, chic, and undeniably French.
2. Is Paris Design Week free?
Paris Design Week offers a mix of free and ticketed events. Many showrooms, exhibitions, and installations throughout the city are open to the public at no cost, making it a dream for design lovers who want to soak in inspiration without breaking the bank. However, some exclusive events, trade shows like Maison&Objet, and private design talks require registration or an entry fee. If you're planning to go, it’s best to check the official Paris Design Week website for details on pricing and access.
3. What is the typical cost for an interior designer?
Interior design professionals come in all shapes and sizes, from decorators to full-service design gurus. If you're eyeing a full-service interior design team in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area, design fees on average range from $200-$300 per hour, which doesn’t include furniture or decor.
Want a touch of Paris design in your home? If you’re dreaming of a space filled with custom details, rich textures, and one-of-a-kind finds, let’s chat. Fill out our design inquiry form, and we’ll help bring timeless Parisian elegance to your home. For more design inspiration, follow us on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter!
Lisa Gilmore Design is a Tampa Bay-based interior design firm specializing in luxury, full-service design for busy professionals. Our approach blends artisan-crafted details, antique treasures, and custom elements to create truly unique spaces. We proudly serve homeowners in Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Hyde Park, South Tampa, and beyond—bringing bold, livable glamour to clients worldwide.
My Unforgettable Trip to Morocco
Paris Design: The Ultimate Adventure for Interior Design Lovers
If you’re a design lover, there’s no place quite like Paris to spark your creativity—and Lisa’s recent trip to Paris Déco Off was the ultimate Paris design adventure. From strolling through fabric-lined streets to discovering the latest trends from the world’s top luxury brands, her week was filled with inspiration at every turn. But beyond the showrooms and exhibits, Paris itself became part of the experience—charming cafés, historic architecture, and hidden design gems that made this trip one for the books. Ready for a peek inside Lisa’s design-filled Paris itinerary? Let’s dive in!
Lisa’s Paris Design Adventure: All the Details
For this stylish getaway, home base was a luxury Airbnb nestled in the heart of Passage des Grands Boulevards. “I shared this apartment with two friends, and it was in the perfect location—easy to get around, and we felt right in the center of everything.”
My New Well-Traveled Life
In the first two years after the divorce was finalized, I went to Canada, then to Paris for a large tradeshow, then to South Africa, and back to Paris again. Then Covid happened.
But I had learned so much about myself in that short time. I discovered that if I’m in a rut or feeling stagnant or have had multiple bad days, getting away– even if it’s just to a beach three hours away– helps me reset. It rejuvenates me and is my internal medicine.
photo Lisa Gilmore in Paris 2020
As a business owner, we carry our work with us 24/7. It’s at home. It’s at the office. It’s in conversations. When you go out to dinner with friends, people want to know what you’re up to, which is great. I love that friends are interested in what I do, but whenever I travel, I go to places where people don’t know me. It’s a way to truly turn it off and leave that whole identity behind and just be a person who soaks in a new culture, gets inspired, and then returns even better as Lisa Gilmore the designer.
Why a trip to Morocco?
I have known of Morocco for a long time. Diana Vreeland was the editor of Vogue in the 1960s and she would do photo shoots all over the world. There were a couple of locations that always stood out to me, and Morocco was one of them. I watched a documentary that talked about the majesty of Morocco, and then I saw model Ashley Graham post on Instagram when she visited Morocco. And I’ve always had this fascination with Moroccan rugs– the texture and vibrancy that they’re known for.
Morocco has been in the back of my mind but I hadn’t given a lot of thought to planning a trip there right now.
photo Royal Mansuer, Marrakech Lisa Gilmore
Then, one of my designer friends sent a group email asking if any of us would be interested in going to Morocco. She said, “There’s this retreat that I discovered from goop, and I’ve been dying to go. It’s super limited, they only take about nine people at a time, and they just opened one up for the end of the year.”
Without hesitation, I told her to count me in.
The agenda was very elusive and top secret. But we knew we’d be shopping, seeing their beautiful rugs, and learning about the history and culture of Morocco, so it sounded like the perfect retreat to me.
I was so right.
Highlights of the Trip
We stayed at Peacock Pavillions a boutique hotel, located in an olive orchard, that was designed by an American couple. Chris is an architect, and his wife, Maryam, is a human rights activist and designer who’s been featured in Elle Decor and dozens of other publications and has written a book called Marrakesh by Design.
They planned everything for us from transportation to every meal. I’m usually not a person who likes planned vacations or guided tours, but this was a great experience. It was such a brain break and it allowed inspiration to come in and me to relax and just enjoy my friends. It completely refilled my cup.
Moroccan Design
The design in general and the architecture in Morocco were something I’d never seen before, and I pride myself on creating unique and beautiful designs. I thought I had seen beautiful tile work before, but Morocco was over the top. It was real craftsmanship– every little piece was hand cut and hand placed– everything had such intention and purpose which I thought was lovely.
Yves Saint Laurent Museum
Going to the YSL Museum and Memorial Gardens was wonderful. I’m so inspired by iconic people from the past and the stories of their lives– how they became successful and how they built their careers. Saint Laurent started his career as a fashion designer in Paris but later in his career, he fell in love with Marrakesh and moved there. The museum has an amazing curated collection of his fashion on display, but my favorite part was his sketches and seeing how his brain worked.
Moroccan Culture
I loved learning about the culture of Morocco and the people– how they think and the interesting magic they have. Some people believe in ghosts here, but the Moroccans believe in genies and they don’t want genies in their homes. They believe that keyhole arches are barriers between them and the other world of genies and that keyhole arches protect them. So that is a prominent feature in their architecture.
There is extreme wealth and extreme poverty in Morocco. However, they’re not a culture that is flashy or showy. So you don’t see wealthy people driving a Mercedes wagon, walking around with expensive bags, or huge houses. In fact, the windows of houses are very small so people can’t see the wealth inside. I thought that was really interesting because here in the States it’s so opposite of that.
Intentional Beauty
I liked how intentional they are about beauty. Everything there is desert– so bland and boring– but they bring beauty in other ways. Even their tools are beautiful and hand-carved and have such pride and intention. To me that says a lot about them as humans and how they carry themselves and present themselves.
That is something I want to incorporate more into my life– intentional beauty– and I think I’m very conscious of that already. But this trip just brought it to the forefront even more. I’m not a designer who fills people’s homes with things just for the sake of them being filled. I like them to have stories. I like to reuse their antiques or restore something that just needs a little love– to give them a new life. It validated that I am doing a good job of preserving people’s stories.
Project Soar
I mentioned that Maryam, the owner of the hotel, is also a human rights activist. She has a nonprofit for underprivileged teen girls in Morocco, Syria, and Uganda called Project Soar.
While Morocco is very beautiful, there are some horrible things within the culture and how they treat women– specifically young girls. Childhood marriage is a real thing there. I wasn’t aware of how prevalent it is there. There is also a lot of shame around menstruation. A lot of the girls hide it when they come of age because then they can be married off shortly after.
Project Soar teaches these girls different skillsets than what they are taught at home or school like how to negotiate or speak up for themselves and how to be more empowered. In fact, 99% of their girls are able to negotiate themselves out of childhood marriage, which I think is absolutely amazing.
When we toured the site and met the girls, I was so emotional. Being pregnant with my own daughter now, I see things from a different perspective. How lucky we are that we don’t have to worry about those things. But it also makes me sad, because though we’re ahead, there are so many girls that deal with bullying, eating disorders, and mental illness. There is still work to be done here and in countries like Morocco.
A portion of the proceeds from our trip went to Project Soar, and it’s an organization that I plan to support for years to come. Even though it’s not in our own country, it’s important to spread hope and education and help girls around the world. They aren’t as privileged as we are but with our help, they could be.
Design Takeaways
There was so much beautiful color in Morocco. Though building exteriors are in desert colors, the interiors are the exact opposite of bland or beige. It inspired me to be more unapologetic with color and think a little bit more about the legacy I am creating. There’s an opportunity to design a home in such a way that 50 years from now someone could say, “Oh my gosh, this is an insane tile installation. We have to preserve this,” rather than “This is dated. Let’s rip it out.”
We recently did a mid-century renovation that we completely gutted because it was dated and there were some pretty horrible renovations in between. But we let the architecture and legacy of the home guide our collection to create something current that flows well and isn’t jarring to the house.
Where to Next?
We have a baby coming in the spring, so I don’t honestly know where I will go next. I’m excited to create a lifestyle of travel for my daughter that I didn’t have. I want to be one of those families walking around Paris with their four-year-old eating a croissant or in Venice strolling down the Grand Canal.
When I was in Morocco, I bought her a beautiful camel sculpture with encrusted tiles on the back of it to remind her that she rode a camel with me.
I’m inspired to think of different ways to travel with a family. I don’t know where that will be. Right now, everything feels open-handed because I know this next chapter will be something I can’t comprehend. Which is a little challenging for my brain. I’m just in the process of letting it go and letting things come to me– navigating being a business owner and a new mom and wondering how that will look.
But visiting Morocco reminded me why travel will always be a part of my life and my family’s life.
I hope the same is true for you.
To get more tips, see our projects, and find ideas for adding liveable glamour to your home, follow me on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter.
Lisa Gilmore Design is a full-service interior designer based in St. Petersburg, Florida that provides custom design services to busy professionals. We create exclusive spaces through the use of artisan-crafted pieces, antique elements, and custom designs. Lisa Gilmore Design serves homeowners in Clearwater, Tampa Bay, Naples, Srasota and worldwide.
4 Things to Consider Before Renovating a Room
This is the time of year when many people like to dream about what the year will look like and what they want in many areas of their lives. One of those areas is the home.
Lisa Gilmore Design | Seamus Payne Photography
As you look around your home, there may be one or several areas you aren’t 100% happy with, but it can feel daunting to decide where to start and what to do first.
A whole house renovation is overwhelming for most homeowners, and sometimes it’s better to start with one or two spaces. However, it can be hard to pare down your wish list.
That’s where Lisa Gilmore Design can help.
Whether we are working with a new client or just giving general advice to someone, we recommend a homeowner think through these four aspects of a design before beginning a project.
4 Things to Consider at the Beginning of a Design Project
1. Don’t worry about labels.
Sometimes, people get stuck trying to find the right label to describe their style like mid-century modern, coastal, or farmhouse. But, trying to find the perfect words can cause stress and stop a project before it begins.
Lisa Gilmore Design | Native House Photography
One of the best things about working with a professional design firm is we break through those barriers and labels, help you clearly define what you like, and create a style just for you. If you have a space that has been customized for your unique style, labeling it no longer matters; you just feel at home.
2. Understand your style.
Lisa Gilmore Design | Seamus Payne Photography
Though having a label isn’t important, knowing what you like is. Looking at magazines is often especially helpful in identifying what you do and don’t like.
While sites like Pinterest, Instagram, and Houzz are also great for inspiration, sometimes they can offer too many options, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed and distracted. If you are struggling to identify what you like, go to a local store and pick up a few of the major design publications, such as Elle Decor, Traditional Home, and Architectural Digest. Dive into the pages; tear out things you like and circle specific furniture pieces or colors that catch your attention. Allow yourself to focus on the pages of the magazine and zero in on what is attractive (or not) to you!
3. Prioritize room functions.
If you want your professional or DIY design to be successful, it is critical to define how you want a room to function.
For example, if we are working on a guest room, but you really want it to be a playroom that a guest occasionally sleeps in, that is an important detail to share. Professional designers can create spaces that meet multiple needs and still look beautiful. But first, you must thoroughly communicate your needs.
4. Narrow down your color palette.
Though it’s fun to dream about what furniture or lighting would look amazing in a space, it’s really better to start with a room’s color.
Color is important, but it also differs from person to person. So, what colors make you feel good? What colors make you the most comfortable?
We recommend people start by looking in their closets. Do a quick scan of your wardrobe. What is the dominant color? Often we can start there to build a design.
Sometimes people realize they have a closet full of black and want more color in their life. That's okay too. This is simply a starting exercise to help you identify how different colors make you feel and which you are naturally attracted to.
Lisa Gilmore Design | Native House Photography
Considering these four areas before you contact a design firm or visit a home improvement store will make your project less stressful. Knowing your budget and when you would like the project to be completed are also critical things to know before beginning.
Just like a vacation is more enjoyable if you know things like what you want to get out of the trip and what type of hotels you like to stay at – all before you book anything. The same applies to your home renovation projects.
The most successful projects are those that are well-thought-out and well-planned before the project starts.
If you are considering a project that would benefit from professional design services, we would love to help.
To get more advice from Lisa Gilmore Design, see our projects, and find ideas for adding liveable glamour to your home, follow us on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter.
INSPIRATION
Lisa Gilmore Design Interior Design trends, new projects & luxury design inspiration from your favorite Tampa Bay Interior Designer in Florida.
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