To modernise a 90’s home, you need the right balance of updated colours, textures, and architectural enhancements. Many homes built in the 1990s have great bones but often lack the modern style and architectural interest seen in today’s homes. While their layouts may still function well, their facades can feel outdated, featuring darker colours, simpler rooflines, and design elements that don’t quite fit current trends. If your 90s home renovation is on the horizon, here are the key upgrades that will bring your property into the modern era while adding value and street appeal.
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1. Lighten Up with a Modern Colour Palette
One of the most effective ways to modernise a 90s home is by refreshing its colour scheme. Many homes from this era featured dark, earthy tones or high-contrast combinations that now feel outdated. Instead, opt for a fresh, modern neutral palette—warm whites, soft greys, muted greiges, or even coastal blues and greens. Lighter tones not only make a home feel more contemporary but also help reflect light, giving the facade a fresh, airy feel.
2. Refresh the Roofline and Exterior Materials
A lot of 90s homes have simple, low-pitched or hip-and-gable roofs that lack architectural interest. While a full roofline update can be a major project, there are smaller ways to give it a facelift. Consider adding feature elements like extended eaves, new fascia details, or upgrading to a modern metal or tile roof finish.
Beyond the roof, updating exterior materials can transform the entire home. Rendering over old brick, adding vertical cladding, incorporating timber or stone elements, or using a mix of textures creates a more dynamic, contemporary aesthetic.
3. Upgrade the Entrance for Maximum Impact
The front entrance is one of the most important areas of any facade—it’s where first impressions are made. Many 90s homes have smaller or recessed entryways that don’t make a statement. A great upgrade is to install a larger, modern front door in a bold colour or a sleek timber finish. Enhancing the entrance with a portico, updated columns, or a covered walkway adds both presence and function. Don’t forget to include modern feature lighting to create an inviting, high-end look.
4. Rethink the Garage Door and Driveway
In many 90s home renovation projects, the garage is a dominant feature of the facade, yet it’s often overlooked. Upgrading an outdated roller or panel-lift garage door to a more modern design—perhaps in a matte black, timber-look, or sleek minimalist style—can significantly impact the home’s overall look.
If budget allows, updating the driveway can further modernise a 90’s home. Options like exposed aggregate, large concrete pavers, or a contrasting border design can create a more polished, cohesive finish.
5. Modernise Fencing and Landscaping
Older fencing styles can make a home feel dated, so updating the front boundary can make a big difference. Swapping out old metal or timber fencing for a rendered wall with vertical slats or a mix of materials creates a more contemporary edge.
Landscaping is another key factor in enhancing curb appeal. Replace overgrown or tired garden beds with structured greenery, native plants, and well-defined pathways. Introducing a mix of textural plants, layered garden beds, and feature pots can instantly modernise the home’s exterior.
6. Add Contemporary Lighting and Finishing Touches
Exterior lighting plays a big role in a home’s overall look, yet many 90s homes still have basic porch lights or outdated fixtures. Installing sleek, modern wall sconces, recessed lighting along pathways, and warm LED uplights around feature plants or architectural elements will give the home a sophisticated, welcoming ambiance.
Other small but impactful finishing touches include updated house numbers, a stylish mailbox, contemporary outdoor furniture, and statement planters by the entrance. These elements might seem minor, but they collectively help refine and complete the renovation.
The End Result: A Modern, Timeless Home
A well-executed 90s home renovation can completely transform a property, making it feel fresh, contemporary, and suited to modern lifestyles. With a thoughtful combination of updated colours, textures, and architectural details, you can achieve a home that not only looks stunning but also increases in value. Whether you’re upgrading to sell or simply want to modernise a 90’s home you love, these strategic changes will ensure your 90s house stands out for all the right reasons.
Thinking about upgrading your 90s home? Get in touch today for expert advice on how to modernise your facade and create a home you’ll love for years to come!