Small house front designs are all about blending style, functionality, and curb appeal. Whether you’re building a new home or renovating an existing one, the exterior design sets the tone for your entire space. With trends focusing on modern minimalism, sustainable materials, and innovative architectural features, the possibilities for creating a stunning front facade are endless. From sleek contemporary designs to charming traditional elements, these small house front design ideas for 2024 will help you make a lasting impression while maximising the visual impact of your home’s exterior.
Simple small house front design picks for inspiration
Whether you’re looking to refresh your home’s exterior or build from the ground up, these latest small house front design ideas will inspire you to transform your space into a beautiful, welcoming haven. Here is a list of small house-front designs.
1. Traditional small house front elevation design
Most people prefer to live in joint families, and most of them reside primarily in rural locations. The doors and windows of cultural emblems, however, might look more traditional with certain decorations for such houses. Consequently, a front design inspired by an Indian style house with traditional stairs at the entry is a great choice.
Source: Pinterest
2. Contemporary small house elevation design
Glass and wood are frequently used in significant quantities in contemporary home architecture. You can borrow a design concept from the most recent home designs and add your own flair with the help of a piece of furniture or decoration. Modern designs can be given a calm appearance in a variety of ways. One of the newest and best lift designs is this one, which is perfect if you’re seeking a way to combine traditional and modern design elements. Keep everything classy and discreet, and let the spacious balcony serve as the cherry on top. The addition of glass railings is a lovely finishing touch. The materials used can also be altered to suit your preferences.
- All wooden: To give the house a modern feel, you can also use all-wooden design elements for the exterior.
- All glass: Glass has evolved from being a strictly functional substance to a crucial structural and aesthetic component in contemporary house plans. To give your little house a more extravagant appearance, make the front entirely out of glass.
Source: Pinterest
3. Elevated small house front design
One of the most common designs is an elevated house front. Elevated designs, however, are increasingly common in India despite being first adopted for flood-prone areas. Your property may appear more regal with an elevated entrance. Additionally, the lower part is frequently used for a capacious basement or underground parking.
Source: Pinterest
4. Colonial style small house front design
Colonial design is heavily influenced by British architecture, and this can be seen in many houses. There are many houses and structures owned by the government that still look like they were designed in this fashion. This design, which includes an arch with a driveway and room for a garden, is inspired by colonial tyrants. Wide, block-shaped walls and pillars are incorporated in such designs. The vehicles can access the house directly from this entrance.
Source: Pinterest
5. Minimal small house front elevation design
Most individuals want their houses to look just like the others on their street. But why not use these simplest elevation designs to add some character and make your house distinctive? Despite being simple, they’ll give your house more visual appeal. Furthermore, the main gate ought to be built of iron and can be placed on either side of the building. Many homeowners appreciate this plain yet elegant design, which is particularly popular in India.
Source: Pinterest
6. Vintage style small house front elevation design
Indian-inspired home designs also include some classic styles that evoke charming old Indian houses. These patterns, though, are common in both urban and rural settings. Large doorways with a basil plant or a little shrine are features of these designs. There are several pillars at the foyer of the house, as well as seating areas to provide a roomy, open facade to your building.
Source: Pinterest
7. Flamboyant small house front design
Colours have a strong impact and can instantly evoke many emotions in us. Bright colours used in your home’s front design can provide a stunning visual impact. It may be more noticeable than a neutral colour. To create a modern design, you can also mix vibrant colours with neutral hues. If you want to avoid playing around with front-elevation home designs, a balanced and contrasting colour palette can be a terrific choice.
Source: Pinterest
8. Brick style small house front design
Brick may be a good option for your single-floor house front elevation design if you’re going for a more distinctive appearance. Your home can gain a lot of character by using stone and brick. Using stone or brick might help your home look more natural if you reside in a neighbourhood with lots of trees.
Brick is one of the low-cost options for a typical home’s front design. With its reddish-brown colours, rough texture, and exquisite design, this contemporary brick and glass facade can be a great option for recapturing the allure of the old era with a contemporary twist. Bricks come in a variety of designs and hues. A contemporary facade design is reflected in brick that is warm in colour, like grey tints, with the inclusion of glass and concrete.
Source: Pinterest
9. ACP sheet small house front elevation design
To offer your exterior a slightly different look, you could also experiment with ACP sheet design. Although it’s not an affordable approach and can be a bit pricey, it’s worth every penny. You can definitely choose this design for your small house if it fits inside your spending limit.
Know about: village house design
10. Village style small house front elevation design
When designing a single-floor or ground-floor house front elevation in the village style, it can be a little challenging. There are numerous things to take into account, including the overall size and layout of the house, the intended appearance and atmosphere, and the budget.
It is feasible to design a stunning and distinctive front elevation that will be the ideal complement to your house with a little forethought and imagination. You would also require a beautiful boundary wall design that should complement your single-floor village house front elevation because the residences in the village are constructed in large areas.
Source: Pinterest
11. Pillar-style small house front elevation design
In a pillar-style modern house with single-floor elevation, the basic structure of this house is supported by pillars. In houses situated in high-wind or earthquake-prone regions, this type of design is typically present.
For the house to be able to endure these outside forces, pillars provide it additional strength and stability. You can consider this kind of design if you want your home to have a pillar style.
Source: Pinterest
12. Small house front design with tiles
Elevation tiles are also available in some of these eye-catching and trendy rock textures, which are highly popular for home exteriors. You can also choose simple or colourful brick pattern tiles to give your home a refined appearance.
Wooden tiles are a fantastic substitute for real wooden planks, which are more prone to damage and have a basic yet elegant appearance. The front of your house can be styled in a variety of ways using wooden tiles due to their variety of designs and patterns.
Source: Pinterest
13. Small house front design with stone
If you want to give your little house a natural and lovely appearance, stone cladding is another choice. There are several design options available, ranging from the traditional grey look to the sandstone effect. Calcium and silicate are among the components of natural stone, which effectively protects the outer walls. These front designs are a great alternative if you want to give the front of your modern, typical house a classy appearance. Duplex residences might benefit from it as well.
Source: Pinterest
14. Wooden small house front elevation design
Incorporating wood into your small house’s front design adds warmth and a natural aesthetic that blends beautifully with any surroundings. Opt for a wooden front door with intricate carvings or a minimalist design for a modern touch. Wooden panelling or cladding can enhance the exterior walls, offering a rustic or contemporary vibe depending on the finish. Complement the wood with potted plants or stone pathways to create a welcoming entrance that feels both cosy and stylish.
Source: Pinterest
15. Glass small house front design
Glass elements in a small house front design create an airy, modern look while maximising natural light. Consider installing large glass windows or a glass-panelled door to make the space feel more open and connected to the outdoors. Frosted or textured glass can offer privacy while still allowing light to flood the interior. For a striking effect, combine glass with sleek metal frames or wooden accents, giving your home’s facade a clean, sophisticated appearance.
Source: HouseKeen.com (Pinterest)
16. Japanese small house front design
Japanese-style small house elevation design emphasises simplicity, functionality, and harmony with nature. Clean lines, minimalist aesthetics, and natural materials like wood and stone create a peaceful look. Large windows or sliding glass doors allow natural light to fill the interior. Traditional elements like a sloping roof or Shoji screens add elegance, making it ideal for compact spaces.
17. Modern-rustic combination small house front elevation design
This small house elevation design blends contemporary minimalism with natural, earthy elements. Sleek lines and large windows provide a modern touch, while rustic features like exposed wooden beams, stone accents, and warm tones bring a cosy, natural feel. This fusion creates a stylish yet inviting aesthetic that balances modern sophistication with the charm of rustic living.
18. Traditional Mediterranean small house front design
A traditional Mediterranean elevation design features warm, earthy tones with stucco walls, terracotta roof tiles, and arched doorways. Iron accents, such as railings or window grilles, add elegance, while wooden shutters and ornate detailing bring a classic touch. The design evokes a timeless charm, combining natural elements with a relaxed, inviting aesthetic perfect for a cosy home.
19. Small house front elevation design with compound wall
A small house elevation design with a compound wall enhances privacy and security while adding aesthetic value. The compound wall can feature sleek, minimalistic designs with clean lines or decorative patterns, complementing the house’s architectural style. Using materials like brick, concrete, or stone paired with greenery or lighting can create an appealing look that enhances the overall exterior of the home.
Source: Pinterest
20. Modern small house front design with lighting
A modern small house front design with lighting emphasises sleek architecture paired with strategically placed outdoor lights. LED fixtures, recessed lighting, and wall-mounted lights can highlight key features like windows, doors, or textures on the façade. This not only enhances the home’s curb appeal at night but also creates a welcoming ambiance while ensuring the space feels safe and secure.
Source: Pinterest
21. Geometric small house front elevation design
A geometric small house front design features sharp lines, bold shapes, and angular features, creating a modern and stylish aesthetic. This design often uses a mix of materials like concrete, glass, and metal to create striking visual appeal. With its clean-cut look, the geometric style offers a contemporary, eye-catching entrance that stands out in any neighborhood, ideal for homeowners looking for a minimalist yet dramatic approach.
Source: Pinterest
22. Farmhouse-style small house front design
Farmhouse-style small house front designs exude rustic charm, often incorporating wood accents, large porches, and a cozy feel. This design embraces traditional elements like gabled roofs, shiplap siding, and weathered finishes. It evokes a sense of warmth and homeliness, making it perfect for those who appreciate country living and a welcoming, down-to-earth aesthetic in their front elevation.
Source: Pinterest
23. Industrial-style small house front elevation design
An industrial-style small house front design blends raw, unfinished materials like brick, steel, and concrete to create an edgy, urban look. Large windows and exposed features are common, giving the house a contemporary and functional feel. The industrial aesthetic emphasizes simplicity and practicality, making it perfect for homeowners who prefer bold, modern design with a touch of urban sophistication.
Source: Pinterest
24. Bohemian-style small house front design
A bohemian-style small house front design combines eclectic, vibrant colors with unique materials to create a free-spirited and artistic exterior. This design often incorporates mixed textures, vintage-inspired elements, and lush greenery. It’s ideal for those who love a laid-back, creative atmosphere and want their home’s entrance to reflect individuality, with no strict adherence to symmetry or convention.
Source: Pinterest
25. Coastal small house front elevation design
A coastal small house front design brings the breeziness and freshness of beach living to your doorstep. This design typically features light, airy materials like wood, glass, and stone, often in soft shades of white, blue, and beige. Large windows, open spaces, and nautical accents evoke the calm and serenity of coastal living, making it a perfect fit for homes near water or for anyone wanting to embrace a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
Source: Pinterest
Small house front design: Popular styles to choose from
The prevalent styles of house front elevation designs can be broadly categorised into five groups:
- Modern: Modern homes exhibit an elegant and minimalist aesthetic with a hint of the latest technological advancements. They are characterised by spacious interiors and large windows.
- Contemporary: Contemporary architecture embraces bold geometric shapes and asymmetrical features. Expect to see angled roofs and well-designed landscaping in this style.
- Traditional: Traditional architecture reflects the culture and climate of a particular region. These homes often feature clay roof tiles, wooden elements, and intricate carpentry work.
- European: European-style homes typically combine two different materials, such as siding or bricks with stucco or stones. Arched entryways and expansive doors and windows are key features of this architectural style.
- Combination: This style incorporates elements from various architectural styles and elevations. It can encompass one or two-storey structures with either flat or sloping roofs.
Small house front elevation design: Common materials
When designing the front facade of a small house, selecting the right materials is essential to achieving both aesthetic appeal and durability. The choice of materials can significantly influence the overall look and feel of your home’s exterior, as well as its maintenance needs. Here are some common materials used in small house front designs:
- Brick: A timeless material, brick is known for its durability, weather resistance, and low maintenance. It adds warmth and a classic charm to the facade, making it ideal for both traditional and contemporary designs.
- Wood: Wood brings a natural and inviting aesthetic to small house exteriors. Whether used for cladding, doors, or trim, it adds warmth and texture. However, regular maintenance is required to prevent weathering and rot.
- Glass: Glass is increasingly popular in modern designs, allowing natural light to flood the interior while creating a sleek and open look. Large windows, glass doors, or even entire glass facades are often paired with other materials like wood or metal for a balanced appearance.
- Stone: Stone cladding offers a rugged, natural look that blends beautifully with greenery and other natural elements. It is commonly used to add a touch of luxury and can be combined with other materials like wood or metal for contrast.
- Stucco: A versatile and budget-friendly option, stucco provides a smooth, clean finish and is available in a variety of textures and colours. It works well for minimalist and Mediterranean-style designs, offering excellent durability and insulation.
- Metal: Often used in modern and industrial-style homes, metal (such as steel or aluminium) provides a sleek, durable exterior. Metal accents, roofing, or cladding can add a contemporary edge to your small house design.
- Concrete: Concrete offers a sturdy, minimalist look and is favoured in modern and industrial designs. It can be left exposed for a raw aesthetic or combined with other materials for a softer appearance.
- Tiles: Exterior tiles, especially those mimicking stone or wood, can add texture and sophistication to the facade. They are durable, weather-resistant, and come in a wide variety of colours and patterns.
How to choose the best small house front design?
Choosing the best front design for a small house requires thoughtful consideration and attention to detail. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
- Proportions and Scale: Opt for a front design that maintains proper proportions and scale with the size of the house. Avoid overwhelming the small house with overly large or disproportionate elements.
- Simplicity: Embrace simplicity in the design to create an uncluttered and visually appealing facade. Clean lines, minimal ornamentation, and a straightforward layout can enhance the overall aesthetics of a small house.
- Space Optimization: Prioritise functionality and efficient use of space. Consider incorporating features like a covered porch, compact entryway, or clever storage solutions that make the most of limited square footage.
- Natural Light: Maximise the entry of natural light to create a sense of openness and brightness. Utilise windows, glass doors or skylights strategically to enhance the visual appeal and make the interior feel more spacious.
- Material Selection: Choose materials that are visually appealing, durable, and suitable for the small house design. Consider options such as light-coloured bricks, stucco, wood siding, or a combination that complements the overall style and provides an inviting facade.
- Colour Palette: Select a colour palette that complements the small house design and creates a harmonious look. Lighter shades can make the house appear larger, while bold accents can add interest and personality.
- Landscape Integration: Integrate landscaping elements to enhance the front design. Use plants, flowers and hardscaping features strategically to add depth, texture and curb appeal to the small house exterior.
- Architectural Details: Incorporate architectural details that add character and visual interest. Consider features like unique rooflines, window shapes, decorative trims or a charming front door to create a distinctive look.
- Neighbouring Houses: Take into account the surrounding houses and neighbourhood aesthetics. While aiming for a unique design, ensure that it harmonises with the overall streetscape to maintain a cohesive appearance.
Housing.com POV
Explore the latest trends in small house front design ideas for 2024, encompassing a diverse range of styles from traditional to contemporary. From colonial-inspired entrances to minimalist facades, the article offers a comprehensive overview of design options available to homeowners. In addition to showcasing various design aesthetics such as vintage charm and flamboyant colours, the article provides practical advice on selecting the most suitable design to enhance curb appeal and optimise space efficiency. Whether seeking timeless elegance or modern sophistication, this article encapsulates the essence of creating inviting and visually appealing exteriors for small houses.
FAQs
Why is front elevation important?
The front elevation of your custom home design is a significant factor, without a doubt. It is the first thing guests notice about your house. Your front elevation should improve the building's visual appeal because a well-designed front elevation can raise a house's worth.
How can I make my house look more expensive from the front?
You should choose wooden and glass front designs to offer your home a more posh and premium appearance. Even with a smaller house, it would increase the value of your property significantly.
What are some key considerations for small home front design?
When creating a small home front design, it's essential to maximise space efficiency while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Focus on utilising vertical space, selecting multifunctional furniture, and incorporating landscaping elements that complement the architecture.
How can I make a small home front design appear larger and more spacious?
To create the illusion of space in a small home front, utilise light colours for walls and furnishings, strategically place mirrors to reflect light and visually expand the area, and opt for minimalist decor to reduce clutter.
What landscaping ideas work well for a small home front design?
For small home fronts, consider low-maintenance landscaping options such as container gardens, vertical gardens, and raised flower beds. Incorporating elements like potted plants, trellises, and hanging baskets can add greenery without taking up too much space.
How can I enhance the curb appeal of my small home front?
To enhance curb appeal, focus on enhancing the entrance with a well-maintained pathway, stylish door, and strategic lighting. Adding decorative accents such as window boxes, outdoor seating, and welcoming signage can also elevate the overall appearance.
Are there specific tips for a small home front design in urban settings?
In urban settings, small home front designs can benefit from vertical gardening, utilising balcony space for seating or greenery, and incorporating privacy screens or trellises for added seclusion. Additionally, integrating smart storage solutions and compact outdoor furniture can maximise functionality without compromising on style.