Split-level homes carry a certain retro charm, but let’s be honest, not every exterior has aged gracefully. What once felt fresh in the mid-century era can now look dated, leaving homeowners wondering how to give their place a modern edge without losing its character. The good news? With the right updates, a split-level can go from overlooked to eye-catching.
Sometimes it’s as simple as paint, crisp, contemporary colors that highlight the architecture instead of hiding it. Other times it’s about rethinking materials: sleek siding, wood accents, or stonework that adds texture and depth. Even small details like updated railings, modern lighting, or a refreshed entryway can completely shift the curb appeal.
Whether your style leans minimalist, warm and natural, or bold and dramatic, there are countless ways to breathe new life into a split-level exterior. Ahead, you’ll find 19+ Stylish Ways to Modernize a Split-Level Home Exterior, proof that with a little creativity, this classic home style can feel every bit as modern as it is unique.
1. Modern Facade with Bold Lines and Natural Accents
Clean angles bring this split-level home into a contemporary era. Large black-framed windows let in light while adding dramatic contrast against the crisp siding.
Rich wood panels warm up the design, creating balance against the sleek stonework. These textures blend beautifully, making the exterior feel fresh and inviting.
A streamlined entryway completes the look, showing how subtle architectural updates can transform curb appeal.
2. Sleek Concrete and Glass Exterior with Modern Lines
Floor-to-ceiling windows create a striking connection between indoors and outdoors. The sharp rooflines emphasize a bold architectural style that updates the classic split-level form.
Concrete walls paired with warm interior lighting add a sense of sophistication. This balance of raw texture and comfort sets a welcoming tone from the street.
A sculptural walkway feature enhances curb appeal, proving small design elements can transform the entire exterior.
3. Timeless Stonework with Modern Black Window Frames
Stone steps lead the way to a refreshed split-level home that feels both classic and updated. The pale façade brightens the structure while bold black trim adds striking contrast.
Large windows expand natural light and give the exterior a sleek, modern edge. French doors connect indoor living spaces to the outdoor patio seamlessly.
Thoughtful landscaping softens the stone walls, creating balance and warmth in this inviting design.
4. Bold House Numbers with Playful Curb Appeal
Large, colorful numbers instantly catch the eye and bring a fun twist to this split-level home. Their vibrant shades add personality while making the entry easy to spot.
Surrounding plants and potted flowers soften the look, blending charm with creativity. The mix of succulents and blooms gives a lively desert-inspired vibe.
A simple walkway directs guests toward the wooden front door, tying together the welcoming exterior.
5. Expansive Deck Upgrade for Outdoor Living
A two-level deck instantly modernizes this split-level home, adding both style and function. Sleek black railings frame the structure, giving it a crisp contemporary touch.
Glass doors open wide to connect the indoors with a generous outdoor space. The covered upper deck creates shade while the lower area invites relaxed gatherings.
Lush landscaping completes the look, blending the wooden structure with its green surroundings beautifully.
6. Contemporary Front with Glass and Stone Accents
Expansive windows transform this split-level home into a striking modern showpiece. The sleek black frames and clean lines highlight the home’s bold structure.
Stone detailing along the entryway adds warmth and depth, complementing the minimalist exterior. Soft lighting along the driveway creates a welcoming glow as evening sets in.
A frosted glass garage door completes the design, tying function with contemporary style seamlessly.
7. Minimalist Exterior with Elegant Stone Accents
Clean white walls paired with natural stone give this split-level home a timeless update. The symmetry of the design enhances its modern look while keeping it balanced.
Subtle lighting along the entry steps adds warmth and creates a welcoming atmosphere. Each glow highlights the texture of the stone, giving depth to the façade.
Tall windows open the space visually, making the exterior feel bright, airy, and sophisticated.
8. Rustic Stone Exterior with Modern Window Design
Natural stone walls bring timeless character while expansive windows introduce a sleek modern edge. The mix of old-world charm and contemporary glass creates striking balance.
Evening lighting enhances the stone texture, casting warm highlights across the façade. Black frames sharpen the look, making the tall windows stand out beautifully.
An inviting outdoor seating area extends the living space, proving updates can merge elegance with comfort.
9. Modern Timber Exterior with Expansive Glass Walls
Vertical wood cladding gives this split-level home a fresh, natural look that feels connected to its surroundings. The warm tones of timber contrast beautifully with the sleek black frames.
Floor-to-ceiling windows open the house to sunlight and views, creating an airy, modern presence. A glass balcony adds a touch of sophistication while keeping the design light.
Set against lush greenery, the updated exterior blends modern architecture with organic charm effortlessly.
10. Bold Paint Choice with a Cheerful Front Door
Deep navy siding instantly refreshes this split-level home, giving it a crisp, modern edge. The dark hue highlights the home’s structure while standing out on the street.
A golden-yellow door breaks the monotone with a cheerful pop of color. This small but powerful update draws the eye straight to the entrance.
White trim and porch railings balance the look, adding brightness and keeping the exterior inviting.
11. Rustic Charm with Modern Glass Front
Stonework paired with soaring windows gives this split-level home a dramatic upgrade. The natural textures highlight its rustic setting while still feeling fresh and contemporary.
Warm lighting from inside glows through the glass, creating a cozy yet striking exterior. Exposed beams and wood tones further enhance the inviting mountain-lodge look.
Surrounding greenery frames the design beautifully, making the home blend into its forest backdrop.
12. Contemporary Wood and Black Contrast Exterior
Vertical wood siding paired with black trim gives this split-level home a striking modern edge. The natural tones soften the bold geometry while adding warmth to the façade.
Large windows maximize light and showcase the home’s clean architectural lines. Sleek black railings at the entry add another layer of style without overwhelming the design.
A simple driveway and fresh landscaping keep the focus on the updated exterior, creating instant curb appeal.
13. Elegant Symmetry with Modern Landscaping
A crisp white façade with tall windows gives this split-level home a stately presence. The symmetry of the structure feels timeless yet updated with modern detailing.
A sleek reflecting pool guides the eye toward the entrance, adding drama and sophistication. Green hedges and manicured trees soften the sharp lines while framing the home beautifully.
The combination of water, greenery, and architectural precision elevates curb appeal in a striking way.
14. Sleek Privacy Screens with Modern Architectural Edge
Vertical slats bring texture and depth to this split-level home while offering privacy. Their bold black finish contrasts sharply with the clean concrete and soft landscaping.
Evening lighting highlights the structure, casting dramatic shadows across the façade. The layered design feels sophisticated, balancing openness with seclusion.
A low wall and metal gate extend the modern theme to the curb, tying the exterior together seamlessly.
15. Grand Exterior with Stone Accents and Water Features
Stone detailing across the façade brings timeless charm to this split-level home. The arched balconies and rounded tower add character while keeping the design elegant.
A cascading waterfall flows into a fountain, creating movement and serenity in the landscape. Layers of colorful flowers and shrubs frame the water, enhancing the natural beauty.
Spacious terraces and wide windows connect the outdoor scenery with indoor living in style.
16. Eco-Friendly Green Roof with Modern Design
A living roof instantly modernizes this split-level home while blending it into nature. Lush greenery across the top softens the concrete exterior and adds eco-friendly appeal.
Expansive glass walls open the home to natural light and create a strong connection to the outdoors. Dark framing contrasts beautifully with the vibrant green above.
Surrounding landscaping continues the natural theme, making the entire property feel serene and inviting.
17. Classic Charm with a Bold Red Door
A winding stone path leads to this split-level home, instantly giving it character. The playful walkway sets the tone for a welcoming and updated exterior.
A vibrant red door stands out against the neutral siding, adding warmth and personality. Small details like potted plants by the steps complete the inviting entryway.
Fresh landscaping frames the structure, showing how color and greenery can modernize curb appeal.
18. Expansive Glass Walls with Warm Evening Glow
Floor-to-ceiling windows give this split-level home a strikingly modern edge. The black frames outline clean geometry while highlighting the warm glow inside.
Layered rooflines add depth, creating an architectural look that feels both bold and inviting. The large glass sections also blur the line between indoor and outdoor living.
Set against a lush green lawn, the illuminated design stands out beautifully at dusk.
19. Inviting Porch with Classic Charm and Greenery
A wide front porch instantly elevates this split-level home, offering both charm and function. The natural wood door adds warmth while blending beautifully with the white exterior.
Potted plants and blooming flowers line the entry, giving the space life and color. Wicker seating tucked under the shade creates a cozy outdoor retreat.
Soft shadows from mature trees complete the scene, making the home feel timeless and welcoming.
