What’s Your Home Exterior Design Style?

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

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.”

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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.”

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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.”

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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.”

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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

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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.

Parisian Room: Your Ticket to Relaxation

A Parisian Room Perfect for Transformation

If you’ve ever strolled the streets of Paris, you know why it’s called the City of Light and Love. Now imagine bottling up that dreamy ambiance and bringing it home. That’s exactly what the Lisa Gilmore Design team did for a recent client—a globe-trotter who wanted a Parisian room where she could unwind and recharge after her busy days.

The stage for this French-inspired makeover? A two-bedroom, two-bath condo nestled in downtown Clearwater, Florida. We rolled up our sleeves and transformed the space into a reflection of the client’s vibrant personality and love of travel.

Feminine, Chic, and Unmistakably Parisian Room

Two standout spaces in this project? The primary bedroom and bathroom. These rooms were the perfect canvas for Lisa and the team to create a Parisian oasis brimming with elegance and personality.

As with every Lisa Gilmore Design project, this Parisian-inspired residence started with a vision board. For this client, Lisa curated a palette of feminine, floral, and effortlessly chic elements.

PROJECT VISION BOARD - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Before: A Bland Clearwater Condo Bedroom

Picture a stark, uninspiring bedroom—a blank slate that’s more "meh" than magic. While it had potential, it lacked the charm needed to make it a true retreat.

photo: Bedroom Before

PARISIAN BEDROOM - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

After: A Parisian Room with Bold Personality

Enter the pièce de résistance: a striking peony wallpaper that instantly transforms the space. Lisa had been holding onto this wallpaper for years, waiting for the perfect project. Its blooming design symbolizes growth—an ideal choice for a client embracing a new chapter. 

Surrounding the bed, linen drapery with delicate metallic threads adds an ethereal shimmer. And let’s not forget the cozy fireplace, making the room feel like the ultimate Parisian room sanctuary.

photo: Fireplace details

Look up, and you’ll notice textural wallpaper on the ceiling with a soft metallic finish. When sunlight dances across it, the effect is like gazing at a shimmering, water-kissed sky. The result? A dreamy, uplifting space that transports you straight to Paris.

photo: Ceiling Wallpaper

Before: A Builder-Grade Primary Bathroom

This primary bathroom was functional but fell flat in the personality department. It felt too generic for our feminine, adventurous client, who deserved something as bold as her own journey of self-discovery.

photo: Bathroom Before

After: A Bathroom Fit for Versailles

Say bonjour to decadence! This reimagined bathroom boasts vanity mirrors layered over antique basket-weave tile, evoking the grandeur of Versailles' Hall of Mirrors. An antique rug ties the Parisian room together, weaving in soft hues from the design palette. 

photo: Parisian Bathroom

The durable large-slab porcelain tile gives the space a polished, practical edge, while the under-lit stone countertops add a subtle, luxurious glow—perfect for unwinding without harsh overhead lights.

photo: Parisian Bathroom Shower

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Creating a Parisian Room

1. What is a Parisian room?

Imagine stepping into a space that feels like sipping a latte at a quaint café on the Seine. A Parisian room is all about that timeless, effortless charm. Think crown molding, herringbone floors, and a perfect balance of old-world elegance and modern flair. It’s a little vintage, a little bold, and a whole lot of je ne sais quoi. Neutral tones set the stage, while pops of color or striking patterns steal the show. It’s cozy, chic, and uniquely you—like Paris itself.

2. How do I make my apartment look Parisian?

Transforming your apartment into a Parisian dream is easier than you think—no passport required! Start with a palette of soft neutrals—whites, creams, and gentle warm tones—and sprinkle in color with art or textiles. Mix and match antique treasures like a gilded mirror or vintage armchair with sleek, modern pieces for that oh-so-Parisian blend. Add a little luxury with rich velvet curtains or silk pillows. Don’t forget to curate: a chic vase here, a stack of books there—but keep it airy, not cluttered. And for that pièce de résistance? Sheer curtains to let the natural light flood in, making your space feel like a sunlit Parisian flat.

3. How do I make a Parisian bedroom?

Creating a Parisian bedroom is like crafting a love letter to elegance and comfort. Start with a soft, neutral base: white bedding, warm beige walls, or soothing greys. Layer in textured throws and muted jewel-tone pillows for a little depth and drama. A tufted headboard or antique bedside tables can add that vintage touch, while a crystal chandelier or gilded mirror brings the glam. Keep it personal with delicate details—fresh flowers, framed art, or a stack of your favorite books. And for that final ooh la la? Floor-to-ceiling curtains in luxurious fabrics for a dreamy, cocoon-like vibe. Très magnifique!

Don’t these spaces make you want to pack your bags and book a flight to France? The layers of elegance, thoughtful details, and bold design come together to create a Parisian room that’s equal parts cozy and chic.

If these dreamy transformations have you inspired, be sure to check out the feature of this project in The Wall Street Journal. And for a little extra wanderlust, don’t miss Lisa’s Paris Airbnb apartment.

Looking to add a little je ne sais quoi to your own home? Fill out our design inquiry form, and let’s create a Parisian-inspired space that’s uniquely yours. Follow us on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter for more tips, projects, and ideas to bring livable glamour to your life.

Lisa Gilmore Design is a full-service interior design firm based in Tampa Bay, Florida that provides luxury design services to busy professionals. We specialize in designing and managing renovations and new home construction projects from consultation to reveal. Lisa Gilmore Design serves homeowners in St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Hyde Park, South Tampa, and worldwide. 

5 Colorful Built-in Ideas for Your Home

Built-Ins That Wow

Who says built-ins have to blend into the background? At Lisa Gilmore Design, we believe that built-ins are the perfect opportunity to add personality, function, and a splash of color to your home. Whether it’s a bold bookcase, a vibrant pantry, or a statement entertainment center, colorful built-ins are a great way to make a room feel uniquely yours.

Lisa Gilmore Design’s Vibrant, Custom Built-ins

Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of creating stunning custom built-ins for our clients. From teal office bookcases that are as timeless as they are dramatic, to a raspberry entertainment center that turns movie-watching into art, our projects are all about blending style with purpose. In this post, we’ll highlight five of our favorite Lisa Gilmore Design projects that feature custom built-ins, and share tips for adding your own pop of color to any space. Let’s dive in!

BOLD TEAL OFFICE BOOKCASE - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Bold Teal Office Bookcases

When our client moved into her St. Petersburg home, she wanted to embrace a traditional yet daring style. Enter the show-stopping teal office bookcases! These custom built-ins pair perfectly with bold emerald green chairs, creating a workspace that feels both traditional and refreshingly modern. It’s a spot that says, "Let’s get to work... but in style!"

Jewel-Toned Built-In Desk

How do you turn a craftsman den into a jewel box of personality? You design a built-in desk in a rich emerald green, of course! For this sunny study in St. Petersburg, we paired bold color with natural light to create a space where creativity and productivity could shine. The result? A custom desk that feels like a hidden gem.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

BUILT-IN ENTERTAINMENT CENTER - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Raspberry Entertainment Center

Why settle for boring beige when you can go raspberry? For this downtown St. Petersburg condo, we designed a custom entertainment center that became the heart of the family’s den. Painted in a dazzling shade of raspberry pink, it’s perfect for cozy movie nights and makes a statement that says, “Why blend in when you can stand out?”

Coastal-Chic Built-In Entertainment Center

Who says coastal vibes have to mean seashells and beige walls? For a St. Petersburg vacation condo, we crafted an elegant built-in entertainment center in dreamy shades of blue. It whispers sophistication while nodding to the serene coastal palette, proving that relaxing and refined can live in perfect harmony.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

Teal Built-In Bookcases for a Teen’s Room

Designing for a teen means finding the balance between fun and functional. For this creative teen, we designed vibrant teal built-in bookcases to house her collection of records, trophies, and crafts. It’s the perfect blend of personality and practicality, creating a space she’ll treasure for years to come.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

FAQs: All About Custom Built-ins

1. What are built-ins?

Built-ins are custom furniture pieces—like shelves, cabinets, desks, or even window seats—integrated directly into your home’s structure. They’re tailored to fit your space like a glove and provide both style and function.

2. Are built-ins a good idea?

Yes! Built-ins are perfect for maximizing storage, adding a touch of luxury, and making awkward spaces work harder. They’re as stylish as they are practical, blending seamlessly into your home’s design.

3. Is built-in furniture expensive?

Built-ins can be pricier than store-bought furniture due to their custom nature, but they’re an investment in both your home’s value and your day-to-day convenience. The cost depends on materials and complexity, but their long-term benefits make them worth every penny.

4. How can I add color to my home?

Adding color to your home is all about layering it in ways that feel natural and vibrant. Start small with accessories like throw pillows, rugs, or artwork, or go bold with an accent wall or colorful wallpaper. Custom built-ins in vibrant hues, like green or navy, can make a stunning statement, while colorful furniture, playful textiles, and lush plants bring energy to any room. To keep things balanced, pair bright accents with neutral bases, and don’t be afraid to mix colors that make you happy—it’s your space, after all!

When it comes to built-ins, the possibilities are endless. They’re not just storage solutions—they’re opportunities to add color, character, and creativity to your home. From teal bookcases to raspberry entertainment centers, our custom designs bring personality to every project.

Inspired to add colorful built-ins to your home? 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 that offers luxury design services to busy professionals. We create one-of-a-kind spaces with artisan-crafted pieces, antique elements, and custom designs. Lisa Gilmore Design serves homeowners in Clearwater, St. Petersburg, South Tampa, and Hyde Park.