Spruce Up Your Front Porch on a Budget

There’s something about fall that makes us want to hit the reset button on our homes. Maybe it’s the cooler air, the crunch of leaves underfoot, or just the pull of pumpkin spice everything. Whatever the reason, the season is tailor-made for giving your front porch or entryway a little extra love. And here’s the good news: you don’t need to spend a fortune to make your home look inviting. With about $100 and an afternoon, you can create curb appeal that makes your house the coziest stop on the street.

Start with the Front Door

Your front door is the first thing people notice and it sets the tone for your home. A fresh coat of paint in a bold, welcoming color can make all the difference. Think deep red, navy, or one of the 2026 colors of the year to embrace fall’s golden hues. A quart of exterior paint runs about $30, and it’s a project you can tackle in a single afternoon.

Not in the mood for painting? Swap in a new doormat. Look for one with a witty seasonal saying or a classic coir mat with a simple design. At $20 or less, it’s an easy upgrade that makes guests feel welcome before they even knock.

Add Seasonal Planters

Nothing says “fall” like a burst of color from mums or the leafy texture of ornamental kale. Skip the expensive pre-made arrangements and head to your local garden center for mums, cabbage, and pumpkins to cluster by your steps. Place them in terra-cotta pots, galvanized buckets, or even a wooden crate for a rustic vibe.

Here’s a trick: elevate some of the plants on overturned pots or stacked bricks so the arrangement has different heights. It gives your porch a professional look without the price tag.

Layer in Lighting

As the days get shorter, lighting becomes essential, not just for safety, but for atmosphere. Solar-powered lanterns are affordable, energy-efficient, and easy to find for about $10 each. Arrange a couple along your steps or hang them near the door.

Another option is a short strand of LED string lights. Wrapped around a railing or tucked into a planter, they add just the right amount of glow for those chilly fall evenings. For $20, you’ll have enough to make your porch shine without looking like you’re skipping ahead to the holidays.

Cozy Finishing Touches

This is where you can really make the space feel personal. A seasonal wreath is a classic, and you don’t have to spend $50 on a store-bought one. Craft stores sell plain grapevine wreaths for under $10 and you can dress it up with faux leaves, ribbon, or even pinecones collected from your own yard.

If you have a chair or bench on your porch, drape a plaid throw over the back. You can pick up an inexpensive one at a discount store for $15 or less. It instantly says “cozy” and ties the whole look together.

Final Ideas

For less than the cost of a family dinner out, you can completely transform your front entrance for the season. The key is to invest in a few small upgrades that make a big impact: a fresh front door, a splash of color from plants, warm lighting, and a couple of personal touches.

Fall is about comfort, warmth, and community, and your home’s curb appeal should reflect that. So grab a paintbrush, a couple of mums, and a lantern or two. With $100 and a little creativity, you’ll have a front porch that welcomes neighbors, delights trick-or-treaters, and makes you smile every time you walk through the door.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

The 2026 Interior Colors of the Year

Color‑of-the-year season is officially a thing, and yes, it’s time to ditch the beige‑gray snooze fest and step into 2026 with some actual personality. This year’s palette brings a mix of mood‑boosters, nostalgic neutrals, and dramatic elegance for every vibe.

Behr: Hidden Gem

Leading the visual charge, Behr’s Hidden Gem is a smoky jade—somewhere between blue and green, with a moody but approachable richness. It’s dramatic enough for a color-drenched room, yet subtle enough to work as a trim or kitchen island accent. Think velvet coziness meets soothing nature.

Glidden: Warm Mahogany

Glidden’s pick is Warm Mahogany (PPG1060‑7), a warm, brown‑red that feels retro mid‑century but still totally on‑trend. It’s the kind of cozy hug hue that works for an entire room—or just pops nicely on built‑ins or wainscoting. In a nutshell: classic, bold, and timeless.

Valspar: Warm Eucalyptus

Want serenity with a splash? Valspar’s Warm Eucalyptus is a sage‑green that feels spa-worthy. Warm undertones give it a calming, grounded vibe—perfect for kitchen nooks, bathrooms, or wherever you want a slice of zen.

Dutch Boy Paints: Melodious Ivory

If you’re still leery of color but want to keep it fresh, Melodious Ivory is your friend. This creamy, nostalgic beige goes with anything: woods, fabrics, even that weird throw pillow you can’t part with.

Minwax: Special Walnut

Let’s not forget wood lovers—Minwax’s Special Walnut brings rich, earthy depth to stained surfaces. Think furniture, floors, trim that ages gracefully. It’s comfortable, familiar, but updated.

What These Picks Tell Us

1. Mood Over Monochrome – Goodbye stark whites and cool grays; 2026 is about warmth, depth, and emotional resonance.

2. Goodbye Primary Overload – Designers are steering clear of bold primaries and neons—this year wants color with substance, not just eye candy.

3. Greens in Charge – From Warm Eucalyptus to the leafy vibe of Hidden Gem, green is king—always safe, now stylish again.

How to Use These Shades Without Going Overboard

• Start small. Brush on an accent wall, paint that tired bookshelf, or swap cabinet doors. A little color goes a long way.

• Pair smart. Hidden Gem pops against creams or jewel tones; Mahogany feels grounded with natural woods or greens; Eucalyptus calms when paired with soft blues or earth tones.

• Go bold…or don’t. Full room color-drench is daring—and fun. But even a subtle application (trim, furniture, ceiling) packs style without commitment.

What not to do in 2026? Designers are collectively side-eying two things for next year: bright, cool whites (they feel cold and impersonal) and shouty neons. If you’re after a modern feel, go for cozy neutrals or moods with character instead.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

What’s New in Deck Design This Summer

Summer in Connecticut is a great time to enjoy your outdoor space and for many homeowners, that means spending time on the deck. Whether you already have one or are thinking about building or upgrading, today’s deck designs offer more options than ever before. Here are some of the most popular trends we’re seeing this year and what you should consider if you’re planning a project.

1. Low-Maintenance Composite Decking

One of the biggest shifts in recent years is the move from traditional wood to composite decking. Composite boards are made from a mix of recycled plastic and wood fibers, and they’re designed to look like natural wood without all the upkeep. They won’t splinter, rot, or fade as quickly, and they don’t require staining or sealing every year. That makes them a great choice for homeowners who want to enjoy their deck without a lot of maintenance. The downside? They tend to be pretty pricey.

2. Natural Wood Still Has a Place

While composite decking is growing in popularity, many homeowners still prefer the look and feel of real wood. Cedar, pressure-treated pine, and even hardwoods like ipe are still solid choices. Just be aware that wood decks will need more regular maintenance, especially with our New England weather, which can be hard on exposed wood surfaces.

3. Built-In Features for More Functionality

Decks are no longer just platforms with railings. More homeowners are adding built-in benches, planters, and even lighting to make the space more functional and enjoyable. In Connecticut, where the weather can change quickly, adding a pergola or covered section can provide shade and shelter during light rain or strong sun.

4. Railing Options That Improve the View

Traditional wood railings are giving way to more modern options like cable railings, aluminum, or even glass panels. These choices help open up the space and improve your view of the backyard or nearby woods without compromising safety.

5. Planning for Storms and Drainage

With frequent summer rainstorms and occasional severe weather, it’s important to think about how your deck will handle water. Proper slope, drainage systems, and weather-resistant materials can help protect your investment and extend the life of your deck.

Things to Consider Before Starting a Deck Project

• Budget: Composite decking is more expensive up front but requires less maintenance. Wood is cheaper to install but will need more ongoing care.

• Location: If your home is near the shoreline or exposed to high humidity, look for materials that resist moisture and salt air.

• Permits: Connecticut towns have specific building codes for decks. Be sure to check local regulations and get the proper permits before starting.

A new or upgraded deck can add both value and enjoyment to your home. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax or an outdoor space to entertain family and friends, today’s decking options make it easier than ever to create something that works for your lifestyle.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. For remodeling inquiries, call (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for general guidance only.