Stucco or Stone?
I think you should stick with stucco, but accent stone around the windows. If stone is too expensive, then go to www.culturedstone.com This is man made stone. It's made of Portland cement then it's mold cast over an actual rock and the finally finish has a real textured feel of whatever stone you desire. If you go to this website you can see the different varieties of limestone, cobblestone, flagstone, it's endless! They will send you a free catalog and also tell you the companies in your area that display this product. Hope everything goes well with your home!
From Renee:
On a limited budget I would consider putting a band of stone veneer at the bottom of the walls. This will protect the lower edge from damage, and will give the home a more solid image.
From Kim:
I prefer the stucco to the stone since I don't see any "hearth" like features that would be accented nicely by the stone. I think your choices of colors are good, but I would add a muted white or beige or gray to add just below wherever you have the white to add depth. It would give the appearance of having shadows cast, giving a fuller appearance.
Whatever you choose, please do me one favor and paint the garage door the same as the house? I never understood houses designed to scream out "Garage!" to passersby.
I also think a tree (palm? Crepe Myrtle? Dogwood? Japanese Magnolia?--looks like Florida) just to the right of the driveway would add some depth to your whole property and at the same time play down the double wide garage door. At the same time it would draw the eye up to the second floor window and the tall upward sloping roof over the front door. Crepe myrtle's are very cheap, grow fast, bloom and are pretty hardy disease-proof and can be planted by 1 or two people depending on size and can sometimes be free from a utility or local government program (since you mentioned funds are low.)
Of course a live oak in the back yard is a great way to plant shade for your future and save on energy costs -- especially here in Florida.
From Dave:
This home has a very strong vertical character that can be toned down & then turned on with a combination of stone & stucco. By installing a water table band of stone along with stone columns & lower corners you can accomplish this task. Your foundation may not be currently designed to handle the masonry however, so cultured stone may be your best bet regarding the stone material due to its strength & light wieght qualities. A flagstone or Texas Cream would be a good stone choice for this home.
From Christopher:
I suggest you consult a local architect. (S)he could help you with all your questions.
From Kristen:
Stucco.
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