Your home’s windows are like the eyes of your house, and just like a beautiful pair of eyes can light up a face, well-decorated windows can transform your home’s entire appearance. Whether you’re looking to add character to a plain facade or update your home’s style for the seasons, exterior window decor can make a remarkable difference. From classic decorative window shutters exterior to festive christmas exterior window decorations, the possibilities are endless and exciting. Let’s explore fifteen stunning ideas that will help you create a home exterior that turns heads and makes your neighbors wish they’d thought of these ideas first.
Key Takeaways
- Exterior window decorations dramatically improve your home’s curb appeal and value
- Decorative shutters, trim, and molding add architectural interest and character
- Seasonal decorations like exterior window christmas decorations create welcoming atmosphere
- Proper installation and material selection ensure longevity and weather resistance
- Combining multiple decoration styles creates unique and personalized looks
Why Exterior Window Decoration Matters
Transforming your home’s exterior doesn’t always require a complete renovation or expensive siding replacement. Sometimes, the most impactful changes come from enhancing what’s already there—your windows. Window exterior decoration serves multiple purposes beyond just looking pretty. It creates visual interest, adds depth to flat walls, and can even make small windows appear larger or oddly placed windows seem more intentional.
When done thoughtfully, exterior window decor ideas can increase your property value significantly. Real estate experts consistently note that homes with enhanced curb appeal sell faster and for higher prices than similar homes without these aesthetic improvements. Additionally, certain types of exterior window decorations for christmas and other holidays can make your home feel more welcoming and establish you as a proud homeowner who cares about their property’s appearance.
The psychology behind attractive home exteriors is fascinating too. Studies show that people form first impressions of homes within the first seven seconds of seeing them. Your window treatments are often at eye level, making them one of the first things visitors notice. By investing time and creativity into your exterior decorative shutters for windows or decorative window molding exterior, you’re essentially crafting that crucial first impression.
Classic Decorative Window Shutters Exterior
Nothing says timeless elegance quite like well-chosen decorative shutters for exterior windows. These architectural elements have been adorning homes for centuries, originally serving the practical purpose of protecting windows from storms and providing privacy. Today, decorative exterior window shutters primarily serve an aesthetic function, though some homeowners still opt for functional versions.
When selecting exterior window shutters decorative for your home, consider your architectural style first. Colonial and traditional homes look stunning with panel shutters featuring raised or recessed panels. Cottage-style homes pair beautifully with board-and-batten shutters that have a more rustic, relaxed appearance. For modern homes, consider simple louvered shutters in bold colors or sleek, minimalist designs that complement contemporary architecture.
Color selection for your decorative window shutters exterior is crucial. Classic choices include black, navy blue, forest green, and burgundy, which provide striking contrast against lighter siding. For a more subtle approach, choose shutters just a few shades darker or lighter than your home’s main color. If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t be afraid to make a statement with vibrant colors like sunny yellow, coral, or even a sophisticated charcoal gray. Just ensure whatever color you choose complements your roof, door, and other exterior elements.
How to Make Decorative Shutters for Exterior Windows
Creating your own decorative shutters can be a rewarding DIY project that saves money while adding personal touches to your home. Start by measuring your windows carefully, remembering that shutters should appear as though they could close over the window even if they’re permanently mounted. Standard proportions suggest each shutter should be half the width of the window.
For materials, exterior-grade wood like cedar or pine works beautifully but requires regular maintenance. PVC and composite materials offer durability with minimal upkeep. You’ll need basic carpentry tools, exterior-grade paint or stain, and appropriate mounting hardware. Many home improvement stores sell shutter kits that simplify the process considerably, especially for beginners.
Enhance with Decorative Window Trim Exterior
Decorative trim around exterior windows acts like a picture frame, drawing attention to your windows and creating architectural dimension where none existed before. This relatively inexpensive upgrade can dramatically transform plain, builder-grade windows into custom-looking features that suggest quality craftsmanship.
Window trim comes in countless styles, from simple flat boards to elaborate crown molding designs. For a classic look, consider decorative window molding exterior with crosshead or pediment designs above the window. These elements add a traditional, formal appearance perfect for Colonial, Victorian, or Craftsman-style homes. Contemporary homes benefit from clean, geometric trim designs with sharp lines and minimal ornamentation.
The installation process for decorative trim above exterior windows requires precision but isn’t overly complicated for those with basic carpentry skills. You’ll want to use exterior-grade materials like PVC trim boards, which resist rot and moisture better than wood. Ensure proper caulking and painting to prevent water infiltration, which could damage both the trim and your home’s structure. Consider adding decorative window headers or decorative piece above exterior window for extra visual impact, especially on larger windows or those positioned prominently on your facade.
Creative Trim Patterns and Designs
Beyond standard rectangular trim, explore creative options like decorative panels under exterior windows or elaborate surrounds that extend well beyond the window frame. Some homeowners install decorative wood above exterior windows that creates a small awning effect, adding shadow lines that provide depth and interest. Others prefer symmetrical designs with matching trim elements on multiple windows, creating a cohesive, planned appearance throughout the facade.
Festive Exterior Window Christmas Decorations
The holiday season provides the perfect opportunity to showcase your creativity with exterior window christmas decoration ideas. These seasonal displays transform your home into a welcoming beacon of holiday cheer that delights family, friends, and neighbors alike. From simple wreaths to elaborate light displays, christmas exterior window decorations range from understated elegance to full-on winter wonderland.
For classic holiday appeal, consider hanging evergreen wreaths on shutters or directly on window panes using suction cup hangers. Add red bows, pinecones, or battery-operated LED lights for extra sparkle. Window boxes filled with fresh greenery, holly berries, and small ornaments create beautiful displays that look amazing from both inside and outside your home.
Light displays remain the most popular form of exterior window christmas decorations. Icicle lights draped from window frames create a magical frozen effect, while string lights outlining window shapes provide clean, geometric appeal. For a more sophisticated look, consider installing lighted window swags or garlands that drape across the top of windows. Battery-operated candles in each window offer timeless elegance reminiscent of colonial America, creating warm, welcoming glows visible from the street.
Year-Round Seasonal Decoration Ideas
Don’t limit your creativity to December alone! Consider rotating exterior window decorations throughout the year. Spring brings opportunities for flower boxes bursting with tulips and daffodils. Summer invites patriotic red, white, and blue bunting for Independence Day. Fall showcases harvest themes with corn stalks, pumpkins, and autumn leaves. By changing your exterior window decor seasonally, you keep your home’s appearance fresh and demonstrate attention to detail that neighbors will admire.
Architectural Details: Molding and Headers
Decorative exterior window headers and molding represent some of the most impactful architectural enhancements you can add to your home. These elements create shadow lines and visual interest that make windows appear more substantial and your entire home more custom-designed. While they require some investment and installation expertise, the results are truly transformative.
Window headers—the decorative elements installed above windows—come in various styles from simple caps to elaborate pediments. Flat headers with dentil molding (small rectangular blocks) create classic appeal perfect for traditional homes. Arched or curved headers soften angular architecture and add graceful curves to otherwise boxy facades. For modern homes, consider simple rectangular headers that extend several inches beyond the window frame on each side, creating clean horizontal lines.
The material selection for exterior decorative window moulding is crucial for longevity. PVC and polyurethane products have largely replaced wood in many applications because they resist moisture, insects, and rot while requiring minimal maintenance. These synthetic materials can be painted any color and hold their finish for years without cracking or peeling. However, some purists still prefer wood for its authentic appearance and workability, especially when restoring historic homes.
Installation of decorative exterior window frames requires careful planning and execution. Proper flashing is essential to prevent water from seeping behind the trim and causing structural damage. Many homeowners hire professional carpenters for this work, as mistakes can lead to expensive water damage repairs down the road. However, with proper research and careful technique, confident DIYers can achieve professional-looking results.
Window Boxes: Living Decoration
Few exterior window decor ideas rival the charm and beauty of window boxes overflowing with colorful plants and flowers. These planter boxes attach beneath windows and transform them into living artwork that changes with the seasons. A well-maintained window box suggests care, attention, and a love of natural beauty that makes any home more inviting.
Selecting the right window box depends on your home’s style and your maintenance preferences. Traditional wooden boxes painted to match shutters or trim create cohesive, classic appeal. Metal boxes in wrought iron or copper develop beautiful patinas over time and work wonderfully with cottage or farmhouse styles. Modern homes benefit from sleek fiberglass or resin boxes in contemporary shapes and colors.
Plant selection varies by season and sun exposure. For sunny locations, geraniums, petunias, and marigolds provide vibrant color throughout summer. Shade-loving impatiens, begonias, and ferns thrive in north-facing windows. Spring displays might feature pansies and primroses, while fall boxes can showcase ornamental kale, mums, and trailing ivy. In winter, evergreen branches, holly, and hardy pansies keep boxes looking attractive even in cold weather.
Proper installation is critical for window boxes, as they become quite heavy when filled with moist soil and plants. Ensure boxes are securely mounted to wall studs, not just siding. Include drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, and use high-quality potting mix rather than garden soil. Regular watering and deadheading keep displays looking their best throughout the growing season.
Awnings and Shade Solutions
Window awnings serve dual purposes: they provide practical sun protection while adding architectural interest and vintage charm. These fabric or metal covers extend over windows to block direct sunlight, reducing interior temperatures and protecting furniture from UV damage. Beyond functionality, awnings contribute significantly to your home’s character and above exterior window decor appeal.
Canvas awnings in striped or solid colors create a cheerful, cottage-like atmosphere reminiscent of seaside villages and quaint downtown shops. These retractable or fixed awnings come in countless color combinations, allowing you to coordinate with your home’s exterior palette perfectly. Metal awnings in copper, aluminum, or steel offer durability and a more permanent solution, developing attractive patinas or maintaining sleek modern finishes depending on the metal chosen.
Modern alternatives include exterior solar shades and shade screens that mount outside windows to block heat while maintaining views. These high-tech solutions are particularly valuable in hot climates where sun control directly impacts comfort and energy costs. While less decorative than traditional awnings, they can be selected in colors that complement your home’s exterior and provide clean, contemporary styling.
Decorative Metal Accents
Exterior decorative metal shutters for windows and other metal accents add sophistication and Old-World charm to home exteriors. Unlike their wooden counterparts, metal shutters and ornaments resist rot, insects, and weather damage while requiring minimal maintenance beyond occasional cleaning. These elements work particularly well with Mediterranean, Spanish, and French Country architectural styles.
Decorative metal shutters come in countless patterns from simple louvered designs to elaborate cutouts featuring scrollwork, geometric patterns, or nature motifs. Wrought iron and aluminum are the most common materials, with aluminum offering lighter weight and greater resistance to rust. Powder-coated finishes provide color options beyond traditional black, including bronze, copper, and custom colors that coordinate with your exterior palette.
Beyond shutters, consider other metal accents like window grilles, decorative corner brackets, or ornamental window guards. These elements add security while enhancing aesthetics, particularly in urban settings or on ground-floor windows. Window boxes with metal brackets, decorative downspout extensions, and coordinating house numbers create a cohesive look that ties multiple architectural elements together.
Functional and Decorative Window Air Conditioner Covers
Decorative window air conditioner covers exterior solve a common aesthetic problem: how to hide bulky, unattractive AC units during both operating season and winter storage. These covers come in styles ranging from simple mesh screens to elaborate decorative panels that disguise the unit completely while allowing proper airflow.
For operating units, look for covers with louvers or mesh panels that permit air circulation while concealing the mechanical components. Some designs incorporate planter boxes or decorative shutters that fold around the unit, making it appear as though you’ve installed an architectural feature rather than a cooling appliance. In winter, more substantial covers protect unused units from weather damage while maintaining your home’s curb appeal.
DIY enthusiasts can build custom covers using lattice, exterior-grade plywood, or cedar boards. Ensure any cover design allows for adequate ventilation to prevent the unit from overheating. Removable or hinged designs make seasonal changes easier while protecting your investment in both the AC unit and the decorative cover itself.
Paint and Color Treatments
Sometimes the most dramatic exterior window decor comes not from adding elements but from strategic use of color and paint. Window frames, trim, and surrounding areas painted in contrasting or complementary colors can completely transform your home’s appearance without significant structural changes or investments.
Consider painting window frames in bold accent colors that contrast with your siding. A gray house with crisp white windows feels fresh and modern, while the same gray with black windows creates dramatic contemporary styling. Colorful window frames in sage green, navy blue, or even coral can inject personality and charm, particularly on smaller homes like cottages or bungalows.
For a more subtle approach, try painting the area immediately surrounding windows in a shade slightly different from your main siding color. This technique creates depth and makes windows appear to recede or project from the facade, adding architectural interest through shadow and light. Historic paint colors on Victorian homes might include multiple accent colors that highlight windows, trim, and other architectural details in coordinated palette schemes.
Decorative Exterior Faux Windows
Decorative exterior faux windows offer creative solutions for blank walls, garage doors, or other areas lacking architectural interest. These false windows can be as simple as painted frames and shutters or as elaborate as three-dimensional installations with actual glass or mirrors that reflect light and surrounding landscapes.
Faux windows work particularly well on garage doors, which often present large, boring expanses that dominate home facades. Installing decorative window frames and shutters transforms these utilitarian surfaces into architectural features that balance with real windows on the rest of the house. Some homeowners install actual windows or glass blocks within garage doors, providing natural light to interior spaces while enhancing exterior appearance.
On blank walls, faux windows create symmetry where architectural planning left odd gaps. A home with three windows on one side of the front door but only one on the other appears unbalanced. Adding a decorative window or shutter arrangement on the sparse side creates visual harmony. These installations can include window boxes, shutters, trim, and headers just like real windows, or they might feature mirrors that reflect gardens and sky for an unexpected and magical effect.
Window Comparison Table
| Decoration Type | Best For | Cost Range | Maintenance Level | DIY Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Decorative Shutters | Traditional homes, adding color | $50-$300 per window | Low-Medium | Yes |
| Window Trim/Molding | All styles, architectural interest | $30-$200 per window | Low | Moderate |
| Window Boxes | Cottage style, color accent | $25-$150 per box | Medium-High | Yes |
| Metal Shutters | Mediterranean, security | $100-$500 per window | Very Low | Moderate |
| Awnings | Sun control, vintage charm | $150-$600 per window | Medium | No |
| Christmas Decorations | Seasonal appeal | $10-$200 per window | Seasonal | Yes |
| Faux Windows | Blank walls, symmetry | $50-$400 | Low | Yes |
Installation Tips and Best Practices
Regardless which exterior window decoration ideas you choose, proper installation ensures longevity, weather resistance, and beautiful results. Start by carefully measuring all windows and noting any irregularities or out-of-square openings. Windows in older homes often vary in size even when they appear identical, so measure each one individually rather than assuming uniformity.
When attaching any decorative elements to your home’s exterior, locate and fasten into studs or solid sheathing whenever possible rather than just siding. Use exterior-grade screws or fasteners rated for your climate conditions, particularly in coastal areas where salt air accelerates corrosion. Apply appropriate caulk around all installations to prevent water infiltration, using paintable exterior-grade products that remain flexible in temperature extremes.
Consider the weight of your planned decorations, especially for elements like window boxes filled with soil and plants or heavy metal shutters. Under-secured decorations become dangerous projectiles during storms and can damage siding, windows, or even neighboring properties. When in doubt, consult with a professional installer or contractor who can ensure proper mounting for your specific home construction and chosen decorative elements.
Seasonal decorations require different considerations. Use non-permanent mounting methods like suction cups, removable adhesive hooks, or shutter clips that leave no marks when removed. For exterior window christmas decoration ideas involving lights, use outdoor-rated products and ensure electrical safety with weatherproof connections and GFCI-protected outlets. Store seasonal decorations properly during off-seasons to extend their life and maintain their appearance year after year.
Maintaining Your Exterior Window Decorations
Beautiful exterior window decor requires regular maintenance to keep it looking fresh and functioning properly. The specific maintenance depends on materials and your climate, but some general principles apply to most installations. Inspect all window decorations at least twice yearly, preferably in spring and fall, checking for loose fasteners, damaged components, or signs of water infiltration around mounting points.
Wooden shutters and trim require the most maintenance, needing repainting or staining every few years depending on sun exposure and weather conditions. Clean wooden elements annually with mild soap and water, checking for rot or insect damage. Synthetic materials like vinyl and PVC need less attention but still benefit from annual cleaning with appropriate products—avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch and dull surfaces.
Metal decorative elements should be checked for rust, particularly at mounting points and anywhere paint has chipped or scratched. Touch up bare spots promptly to prevent corrosion from spreading. Clean metal shutters and accents with appropriate metal cleaners, and consider applying protective wax coatings to maintain finishes and prevent oxidation.
Window boxes require the most frequent attention if you keep them planted. Replace potting soil annually, clean boxes thoroughly between seasons, and inspect mounting brackets to ensure weight hasn’t caused sagging or stress. Even when not planted, window boxes should be kept clean and free of debris that could trap moisture against your home’s siding.
Budgeting for Your Window Decoration Project
Transforming your home’s exterior through window decoration can accommodate virtually any budget. DIY installations of basic decorative shutters for exterior windows might cost as little as $200-$500 for an entire home if you’re willing to do the work yourself and shop carefully for materials. Mid-range projects incorporating professional installation of quality shutters, trim, and window boxes typically range from $1,500-$5,000 depending on home size and chosen materials.
High-end installations featuring custom-designed elements, expensive materials like copper or custom ironwork, and professional installation can exceed $10,000 for extensive work on large homes. However, these investments typically return 50-100% of their cost in increased property value while providing immediate enjoyment and curb appeal improvements.
To maximize your budget, prioritize windows visible from the street and main entrances. Decorating every window on your home creates cohesive appeal, but focusing on the most prominent ones delivers maximum impact for minimum investment. Consider phasing your project, completing one section at a time as budget allows. This approach spreads costs over time while still providing steady improvements to your home’s appearance.
Conclusion
Enhancing your home’s exterior through thoughtful exterior window decoration ideas represents one of the most cost-effective ways to boost curb appeal, increase property value, and create a home you’re proud to own. From classic decorative window shutters exterior to festive exterior window christmas decorations, the options suit every style, budget, and skill level. Whether you’re installing decorative trim for exterior windows, creating custom window boxes overflowing with flowers, or designing elaborate seasonal displays, each improvement contributes to a more beautiful, welcoming home.
Remember that the best exterior window decor reflects your personal style while respecting your home’s architectural character. Start with a clear vision, plan carefully, and don’t be afraid to experiment with colors, textures, and combinations until you achieve the look that makes you smile every time you pull into your driveway. Your windows are your home’s eyes—dress them beautifully, and watch your entire property come to life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the easiest exterior window decorations for beginners?
The simplest starting point for most homeowners is installing decorative shutters or adding window boxes. Both projects require minimal tools and can be completed in a weekend. Pre-made shutters just need mounting hardware, while window boxes can be purchased ready-made and secured with brackets. These projects deliver impressive visual impact without requiring advanced carpentry skills or significant financial investment.
How do I choose the right color for my decorative window shutters exterior?
Select colors that either complement or contrast with your siding while coordinating with your roof and door colors. Traditional choices include black, navy, dark green, or burgundy for contrast. For subtler looks, choose shades two to three tones darker than your siding. Test paint samples on small boards held against your house in different lighting conditions before committing to a color.
Can I install exterior window decorations myself or should I hire a professional?
Many exterior window decor projects are suitable for DIY completion, including shutters, window boxes, and trim installation. However, projects requiring precise carpentry, working at heights, or integrating with your home’s water-shedding systems benefit from professional installation. If you’re unsure about your skills or the project’s complexity, consult with a contractor who can advise on which portions you might tackle yourself and which require professional expertise.
How do decorative exterior window shutters differ from functional ones?
Decorative shutters are mounted permanently to siding and cannot close over windows—they serve purely aesthetic purposes. Functional shutters mount on hinges and can actually close for storm protection or privacy. Decorative shutters typically cost less and are lighter weight since they don’t require the hardware and structural integrity needed for operation. Most modern shutters are decorative, as functional shutters require precise sizing and more complex installation.
What’s the best material for decorative trim around exterior windows in humid climates?
PVC and composite materials perform best in humid environments because they resist rot, moisture damage, and insect infestation unlike wood. These synthetic materials maintain their appearance with minimal maintenance and can be painted any color. While slightly more expensive initially than wood, they eliminate ongoing maintenance costs and last significantly longer in humid conditions, making them more economical over time.
