I have a genuine appreciation for Harlem's beautiful architecture. The historic townhouses have so much character, and they make our streets feel special. Taking care of the outside of your home is a great way to show pride in your neighborhood. It also makes coming home at the end of the day a more pleasant experience. Improving the front of your home is a truly rewarding project. It can be a simple or larger task, but every effort makes a difference.
Give Your Front Door a Fresh Look
Your front door is a focal point, and it's a great place to start when you're thinking about curb appeal. If you are fortunate enough to have original hand carved wood doors, be certain to keep the wood protected. Experts suggest using a high-quality exterior-grade finish with UV protection. Otherwise a new coat of paint can completely change the look of your home's entrance. I've seen doors in classic black, deep red, or a bright blue that really pop against the building's facade. It is a quick and relatively inexpensive project that yields dramatic results.
Beyond the paint, consider your door hardware. Old, tarnished knobs and knockers can be replaced with new ones to give the door a polished and updated look. You can also add a nice new doormat and a seasonal wreath to make the space more personal and inviting. These small details show that you pay attention to the little things.
Beyond the paint, consider your door hardware. Old, tarnished knobs and knockers can be replaced with new ones to give the door a polished and updated look. You can also add a nice new doormat and a seasonal wreath to make the space more personal and inviting. These small details show that you pay attention to the little things.
Update Your House Numbers
Small details—like house numbers—can have a big impact on your home's curb appeal. Old or faded numbers are not only hard to read, but they also detract from the overall look of the property. Updating them with a clean, modern design is a simple upgrade that instantly elevates the exterior.
In Harlem, many historic brownstones feature glass transoms above the front door where the house number can be painted—an elegant, timeless option. If you're upgrading the number on your signage instead (or in addition), there’s a wide range of styles to suit your home’s architecture, from classic brass to sleek stainless steel. It’s a small change, but one that makes a strong first impression.
In Harlem, many historic brownstones feature glass transoms above the front door where the house number can be painted—an elegant, timeless option. If you're upgrading the number on your signage instead (or in addition), there’s a wide range of styles to suit your home’s architecture, from classic brass to sleek stainless steel. It’s a small change, but one that makes a strong first impression.
Use Potted Plants and Window Boxes
In Harlem, the majority of homes do not have front yard space, but that doesn't mean you can't have greenery. Potted plants are a fantastic solution. I love seeing large planters on a stoop to create a lush, green entryway. You can choose plants that thrive in our urban environment, such evergreens or boxwoods.
Window boxes are another excellent option for bringing greenery to your home's exterior. They add a charming, classic touch to any facade and are a great way to display flowers that change with the seasons. Just be mindful that window boxes require regular watering, especially during the warm months.
Window boxes are another excellent option for bringing greenery to your home's exterior. They add a charming, classic touch to any facade and are a great way to display flowers that change with the seasons. Just be mindful that window boxes require regular watering, especially during the warm months.
Refresh with a Power Wash
The exteriors of buildings in New York City can accumulate a lot of grime over time. A professional power wash can make a tremendous difference. It removes built-up dirt and pollutants from brickwork, stone, and concrete. I've seen power washing completely transform a building's appearance, making it look clean and well-cared for. This is especially true for the lighter colored brownstones.
It's a process that should be handled with care, especially with older, more delicate surfaces. A professional service knows the correct pressure and cleaning solutions for different materials. It's a way to give your home a deep clean that a simple hose and scrub brush can't achieve. You will be amazed at how much brighter your building looks afterwards.
It's a process that should be handled with care, especially with older, more delicate surfaces. A professional service knows the correct pressure and cleaning solutions for different materials. It's a way to give your home a deep clean that a simple hose and scrub brush can't achieve. You will be amazed at how much brighter your building looks afterwards.
Add Architectural Details
Some homes in Harlem have beautiful stoops, railings, and cornices that can be enhanced. Painting or restoring your railings can instantly improve the look of your entryway. It can make a stoop feel more substantial and elegant. You can also clean or repair the decorative elements on your home’s facade.
If you are looking for new details to add, consider replacing your wrought iron window guards or flower boxes. These features can add much character and visual interest to a flat facade. I appreciate how these details work together to create a cohesive and charming exterior. This is where the work of professional Harlem NYC landscapers comes in handy for larger projects.
If you are looking for new details to add, consider replacing your wrought iron window guards or flower boxes. These features can add much character and visual interest to a flat facade. I appreciate how these details work together to create a cohesive and charming exterior. This is where the work of professional Harlem NYC landscapers comes in handy for larger projects.
Restore Your Gate
Many homes in Harlem are framed by wrought iron gates that both define the property line and contribute to the neighborhood’s unique charm. These gates are more than just functional barriers—they’re an essential part of Harlem’s architectural identity. Whether simple or ornate, they lend character to the home and help create that iconic brownstone curb appeal.
When we had the garden-level gate made years ago which led to my son’s room, the artisan blacksmith added a small heart to the design. It was a personal touch I hadn’t asked for, but it instantly made the gate feel special. To this day, it makes me smile every time I see it—a quiet reminder of the thoughtfulness that goes into so many of the details in these homes.
But even the most beautiful gate can lose its impact if it’s neglected. Rust, peeling paint, or visible wear can make the front of a home feel tired, even if the interior has just been beautifully renovated. Fortunately, it’s often an easy fix: a good cleaning and a fresh coat of paint can dramatically improve the overall look. Matte black is a classic choice, but there are other finishes that can work well depending on the home’s style.
If your gate is broken or in more serious disrepair, repairing or restoring it is almost always a wise investment. These architectural features ground the home visually and signal to anyone passing by that the property is cared for and appreciated. They’re not just decorative—they’re part of what makes Harlem’s historic streetscapes so compelling. Maintaining them shows a respect for craftsmanship, heritage, and the everyday beauty of your home’s exterior.
When we had the garden-level gate made years ago which led to my son’s room, the artisan blacksmith added a small heart to the design. It was a personal touch I hadn’t asked for, but it instantly made the gate feel special. To this day, it makes me smile every time I see it—a quiet reminder of the thoughtfulness that goes into so many of the details in these homes.
But even the most beautiful gate can lose its impact if it’s neglected. Rust, peeling paint, or visible wear can make the front of a home feel tired, even if the interior has just been beautifully renovated. Fortunately, it’s often an easy fix: a good cleaning and a fresh coat of paint can dramatically improve the overall look. Matte black is a classic choice, but there are other finishes that can work well depending on the home’s style.
If your gate is broken or in more serious disrepair, repairing or restoring it is almost always a wise investment. These architectural features ground the home visually and signal to anyone passing by that the property is cared for and appreciated. They’re not just decorative—they’re part of what makes Harlem’s historic streetscapes so compelling. Maintaining them shows a respect for craftsmanship, heritage, and the everyday beauty of your home’s exterior.
Work with Julia Boland and The Boland Team for Your Harlem Real Estate Goals
If you're looking to buy, sell, or invest in New York City real estate, Julia Boland of The Boland Team offers unmatched expertise and personalized service. With over two decades of experience marketing and selling Manhattan properties — from co-ops and condos to townhouses and new developments — our team brings a seasoned perspective and deep market knowledge to every transaction.
When you're ready to make your mark in New York City's dynamic real estate market, reach out to us at The Boland Team.
When you're ready to make your mark in New York City's dynamic real estate market, reach out to us at The Boland Team.
