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Last week, I wrote about updating plans. The same concept applies to updating elevations. The best elevations are those designed with scale and proportion in mind while relating to an architectural period. When elevations are designed to a specific style, they will never be dated.
A great example of a dated elevation element is the large, two-story entry with a ½ round top. This is a look that was very popular and has now lost favor with the buyers. Simply put, two-story entries are the architectural parachute pants of the 90’s. Steer clear of fads and stick with authentic design and your homes will never fall out of fashion.
Here’s a quick case study to demonstrate how elevations can be updated without costing the builder a dime.

The elevation above needs work in several areas:

Here is how we approached the problem:
The costs for these two elevations are roughly equivalent, however, the new elevation is much more authentic and appealing. Updating elevations can make a world of difference to buyers, and I’m sure the increased sales velocity won’t hurt your feelings either.
So maybe it’s time to throw out the old platform shoes and polyester leisure suits and get into something that will never go out of style. Sound groovy?
Links:
[1] http://www.housingzone.com/author/todd-hallett
[2] http://images.housingzone.com/cdn/farfuture/9XBLlxfn-UUuGSrFXjefAfG1PpGHsjYmRVEyKNjkVR8/mtime:1311624539/sites/default/files/imagefield_default_images/default_article_image_0.gif
[3] http://images.housingzone.com/cdn/farfuture/fDXFsQbqI1fHJGGYzrEsOHHTej2TzuXJz4v17cxQEYU/mtime:1311624539/sites/default/files/imagefield_default_images/default_slideshow_2.gif