Inspiration for Tudor Home Exteriors: Before and After
Tudor-style homes stand out with their distinct features—the timber frames, steep roofs, and stone details that catch everyone’s eye.
While these homes are naturally beautiful, many homeowners wonder how to refresh the outside look of their Tudors without losing their special character.
In this article, you’ll see real homes transformed.
I’ve gathered before-and-after examples that show what’s possible for your Tudor home.
These examples will help you:
- Picking the right colors that work with Tudor elements
- Updating doorways and windows while keeping the style
- Adding curb appeal
Let’s look at these Tudor makeovers and help you plan your home’s new look!
Before and After: Tudor Home Exterior
I’ve spent years helping homeowners refresh their Tudor homes while keeping their special character intact.
You might think these classic homes cannot be updated without losing their beauty, but that’s simply not true.
Let me show you real Tudor homes that have received stunning makeovers.
Each one maintains its special Tudor feel while looking fresh and current.
1. Black and White Classic
This 1930s Tudor went from tired to striking with a simple color update.
The owners returned to the classic black-and-white combo that Tudors are known for.
They painted the stucco bright white and all the trim deep black.
The change was basic but greatly impacted how the house looked from the street.
- Clean white stucco with no yellowing
- Sharp black trim that stands out
- Original half-timber details kept intact
- Fresh matching garage doors
2. Front Door Focus
Sometimes, the biggest change comes from the smallest area.
This Tudor’s makeover centered on a new front door, which became the star of the home.
I replaced a plain wooden door with a custom arched one in rich walnut.
The brass hardware catches the sun and draws the eye right to the entry.
- Arched top that fits the Tudor style
- Hand-carved details on the wood
- Period-correct hardware in brass
- New slate step and iron railing
3. Updated Windows
Windows are the eyes of your home, and this Tudor has a complete eye lift.
The old single-pane windows were swapped for new ones with divided light patterns that matched the home’s age.
The change saved on heating bills and made the house look refreshed without changing its basic style.
- Double-pane efficiency with traditional looks
- Kept original window shapes and sizes
- Added subtle iron window boxes
- New coordinating shutters on upper windows
4. Stone Facade Refresh
After 70 years of weather, this Tudor’s stone base had darkened and looked sad.
Rather than replacing it, the owners had it carefully cleaned and repointed.
The stone’s natural colors came back to life, showing pinks, grays, and tans that had been hidden under dirt and old mortar.
- No fake stone or paint – just clean, natural stone
- Fresh mortar in a complementary shade
- Subtle lighting added to highlight the texture
- Small plants tucked between stones for softness
5. Modern Tudor Blend
You can respect history while living in today’s world.
This transformation kept all the Tudor lines but added contemporary touches.
The owners kept the steep roof and cross gables but chose a more modern color scheme of gray and soft white instead of the expected black and cream.
- Updated colors that still respect the style
- Modern light fixtures that don’t look out of place
- Clean-lined gutters and downspouts
- Simple modern house numbers and mailbox
6. Landscaping Makeover
This transformation wasn’t about the house itself but what surrounds it.
The owners removed overgrown bushes that hid the home’s best features.
They added a curved pathway, low boxwood hedges, and flowers that complement the home’s colors without competing with its details.
- Open view to showcase architectural details
- Year-round structure from evergreen hedges
- The new curved path that leads the eye to the door
- Low-maintenance plants that won’t overgrow again
7. Roof Replacement
A roof is more than just protection – it’s a major style element for Tudor homes.
This makeover featured a new roof that mimics old-world slate but uses modern materials.
The owners chose varying shades of gray and black tiles laid in an uneven pattern that looks like it’s been there for centuries.
- Long-lasting composite materials
- Varied colors to mimic natural slate
- Special attention to roof edges and peaks
- Copper flashing that will develop a natural patina
8. Lighting Enhancement
Light changes everything.
This Tudor update focused on thoughtful lighting to highlight the home’s best features.
New warm fixtures cast gentle light on the half-timbering, illuminate pathways, and make the home look welcoming after dark.
- Copper lanterns that match the Tudor period
- Hidden uplights that showcase walls and gables
- Motion sensors for safety and convenience
- Warm-toned bulbs that mimic candlelight
9. Color Scheme Update
Bold but thoughtful color choices transformed this Tudor from forgettable to head-turning.
The owners kept the traditional Tudor elements.
But chose a rich taupe for the stucco areas, deep brown for the timbers, and forest green for the doors and accents.
- Earth tones that complement the natural landscaping
- Three-color scheme for depth and interest
- All colors chosen from historical Tudor palettes
- Fresh white trim to brighten and define edges
10. Extended Entryway
This Tudor gained a more grand entrance with a thoughtfully designed addition.
The original small stoop was replaced with a properly covered entryway, which protects guests from the weather and adds architectural interest.
The new porch matches the home perfectly as if it was always there.
- Timber framing that matches existing details
- Flagstone floor with heating elements underneath
- Custom lanterns made by a local blacksmith
- Built-in bench for package placement
11. Complete Exterior Overhaul
Sometimes, you need to go big.
This total transformation touched every exterior element while respecting the Tudor’s bones.
The owners replaced the siding, windows, doors, and roof.
They also added copper gutters and new chimneys and completely redid the landscaping, all while keeping the classic Tudor shape and feel.
- New stucco with proper texture and color
- Hand-split cedar shake roof
- Custom doors and windows throughout
- Copper gutters and downspouts
- Professional landscaping with mature plants
Essential Features of Tudor Architecture
When I look at Tudor homes, I notice their unique look, which dates back hundreds of years.
You can easily spot these homes once you know what to look for.
1. Wooden Beams That Show
The most eye-catching feature of Tudor homes is the wooden beams you can see from outside.
These dark wooden lines stand out against light-colored walls.
They’re not just for show – these beams once held the house up!
Now, they give Tudor Homes their special pattern that everyone knows.
2. Steep Roofs That Point Up
Look up at a Tudor home, and you’ll see roofs that rise at sharp angles.
These steep roofs were built to handle snow and rain in England, where the style began.
They often have multiple sections that point in different directions, creating an interesting outline against the sky.
3. Tall & Thin Windows
Tudor windows are narrow and tall.
Many have small glass panes held together by metal or lead strips.
When sunlight hits these windows, it creates pretty patterns inside.
These windows let in light while keeping the home’s historic feel.
4. Curved Doorways With Brick or Stone
Want to enter a Tudor home?
You’ll often walk through an arched doorway that feels like a mini castle entrance.
The walls around it might be brick or stone, sometimes with patterns laid in different ways.
These solid materials balance out the wooden parts of the house.
5. Earth-Tone Colors
Tudor homes use colors found in nature.
- Browns like soil
- Greens like forest leaves
- Reds like clay
- Creams like limestone
These colors help the house blend with its surroundings and highlight those wooden beams I mentioned first.
When you understand these five key parts, you can spot Tudor homes anywhere—and maybe even get ideas for your own house!
Top Tips for Tudor Exterior Improvements
I’ve seen many Tudor homes get a new life with the right changes.
You don’t need to spend a fortune to make your Tudor home shine again.
Here are my top five tips that work.
1. Refresh the Paint
The right colors make all the difference in a Tudor home.
I suggest:
- Dark brown or black for the wooden beams
- Cream, white, or light tan for the walls between beams
- Soft greens or reds for doors and shutters
Don’t pick trendy colors that will look dated next year.
Choose shades that would look at home in old England.
This simple change can make your whole house look better right away.
2. Upgrade Windows and Doors
Old windows let in cold air and cost money, but you can get new windows that look old!
Modern companies make windows with the thin strips between glass panes that Tudor homes are known for.
Your house stays warm, your bills stay low, but the look stays right.
The same goes for doors.
A new door with old-style hardware can change how your whole house looks.
3. Enhance Landscaping
Plants aren’t just pretty – they frame your home and make it stand out.
Try these:
- Small bushes along the house base
- Climbing plants on trellises (but not on the wooden beams!)
- Flower beds with plants that match the home’s age
- Stone paths that curve to your door
Even adding mulch around your plants can make everything look neater and more put-together.
4. Improve Lighting
When the sun goes down, good lights make your Tudor home look magical.
I love how the right lights can show off those wooden beams at night!
Look for:
- Wall-mounted lights that look like old lanterns
- Soft path lights to guide guests to your door
- Spotlights aimed up to show off steep roof lines
New lights are easy to put in and make your home safer, too.
5. Maintain the Roof and Masonry
Your roof and brick or stone walls are what keep your Tudor standing strong.
Check them each year for:
- Missing or broken roof tiles
- Cracked mortar between bricks or stones
- Water stains or damage
Fix small problems quickly before they become big ones.
This will save you money and keep your Tudor looking its best for years to come.
Conclusion
I hope these before-and-after examples show how small touches and bigger updates can bring out the beauty in your Tudor home.
Each change, from fresh paint and better lighting to new windows and fixed brickwork, adds to your home’s beauty and value.
The best part? You can tackle these projects one step at a time.
Start with what bothers you most or fits your budget now.
Your Tudor home has a story that spans hundreds of years.
By making thoughtful changes, you can help write its next chapter.
What Tudor makeover has caught your eye?
Share your favorite look or your own home’s transformation in the comments below.
I’d love to see what moves you!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does It Cost to Renovate a Tudor Home Exterior?
Most Tudor exterior renovations cost between $15,000-$40,000, depending on the scope.
Paint refresh projects start around $5,000, while complete transformations reach higher ranges.
Can I Add Tudor Elements to a Non-Tudor Home?
Yes, you can add Tudor-inspired features.
Such as decorative half-timbering, arched doorways, and leaded glass windows.
How Do I Choose the Right Contractor for My Tudor Home Renovation?
Look for contractors with specific experience in historic or Tudor-style homes.
Ask for portfolios of similar projects, check references, and ensure they understand proper techniques.
