If you’re stuck in decision overload, this is your shortcut to a clear plan.
Clear, confident decisions start here
Exterior Color & Materials Consultation
- 7-day online consultation, with unlimited revisions for 4 days.
- Direct communication with your Designer via email.
- No-pressure, pre-recorded video presentations.
- Designs tailored to your budget and climate.
- 3 materials design proposals, showcasing every side of your home, based on photos or prints.
- Tried-and-true materials source list for any exterior surface of your home for roofing, gutters, fascia, soffits, siding, trim, windows, doors, decorative lighting & hardware, accents & accessories
- Patio furnishings design & layout with sources for each piece.
- Work with any exterior-rated paint, stain, or wash brand for coated surfaces.
- Complimentary paint and material swatches delivered to wherever you are.
- Secure online project portal.
- Private Pinterest Board with Clickable Links to Sources.
- 6 Bonus guides: Exterior House Parts Explained, Renovation Project & Design Terms, Color, Paint & Stain Basics, Choosing Final Paint Colors, Working With Trades, Ordering Renovation Materials
What's Included:
Watch your dream home come to life with three cohesive options, a sourcing list you can actually use, and swatches sent to your door.
$995
7-DAY DESIGN consultation
Exterior Color & Materials
view new builds with blueprints →
Recent Materials Designs
view RENOVATIONS with PHOTOS →
Recent Materials Designs
day 7 • th
days 5 & 6 • t, w
DAY 4 • m
Saturday & Sunday
Days 1, 2 & 3 • w, th, f
You'll need to submit your images, links and info and complete the Agreement & Questionnaire BEFORE your start date. The earlier you submit everything, the sooner I can begin thinking about your designs.
I'll check in with you once I receive everything to get any clarifications I might need, and to let you know it all came through.
before we start
day 7 • th
days 5 & 6 • t, w
DAY 4 • m
Saturday & Sunday
You can sit back and relax as I create the initial design proposals for your home using the photos and blueprints, links and questionnaire answers you've provided.
And there's no meeting the first day!
If you have extra ideas or thoughts about your project, I'll actively respond to your emails while designing.
Days 1, 2 & 3 • w, th, f
before we start
day 7 • th
days 5 & 6 • t, w
DAY 4 • m
We both take a break from computers & emails to rest, relax & recharge!
Saturday & Sunday
Days 1, 2 & 3 • w, th, f
before we start
day 7 • th
days 5 & 6 • t, w
Your proposals are ready! By 6am, you'll receive an email with a link to the presentation video and a slideshow of your initial designs.
My voiceover will guide you through each element. Review everything at your leisure, and I'll be here whenever you're ready.
DAY 4 • m
Saturday & Sunday
Days 1, 2 & 3 • w, th, f
before we start
day 7 • th
The next steps are up to you. I can create other solutions, or combine some of the designs. Whatever you'd like to see, that’s what we’ll do.
I’ll provide a timing estimate before I start any revisions so you know what to expect. And since I never want you to feel pressured to make snap decisions, I can document multiple options and send samples for both, too.
days 5 & 6 • t, w
DAY 4 • m
Saturday & Sunday
Days 1, 2 & 3 • w, th, f
before we start
On the last day, I'll create the final info sheets to start the conversations with your contractors or local showrooms. I'll also select all the final colors & materials, and get samples & swatches ordered and shipped directly to you.
Your consultation will run until 4pm MT and you should receive your samples within 10 business days.
day 7 • th
days 5 & 6 • t, w
DAY 4 • m
Saturday & Sunday
Days 1, 2 & 3 • w, th, f
before we start
Materials Consultation Timeline:
Compare
Packages
Project Guides
PAINT ONLY
Samples
PATIO ONLY
Material Sources
Project Portal
Q & A Time
Unlimited
Revisions
Furnishing Sources
Furnishing Layouts
Patio Views
Back & Side Views
Front View
Renderings
Email your Designer
One Day
Three Days
Four Days
Seven Days
Duration
BOOK NOW
Driveways, pavers, walkways, sidewalks, or retaining walls - unless you already have prints.
hardscaping help
Plant layouts & specs, pools, new pergolas or other major structures - unless you already have prints.
landscaping help
Adding dormers, staircases, balconies, or decks, creating large additions, or moving windows - unless you already have prints.
structure changes
Please understand, this consultation does not include:
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NOVEMBER 2025
When should we start?
Select a start date - this consultation lasts 7 days, and you'll receive your initial designs on Day 4
Availability is limited to ensure one-on-one service and prompt response times.
BOOKING FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE, HOWEVER, RE-BOOKING FOR THE NEXT AVAILABLE DATE IS POSSIBLE SHOULD THAT FIT YOUR PROJECT TIMELINE.
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DECEMBER 2025
Availability is limited to ensure one-on-one service and prompt response times.
Select a start date - this consultation lasts 7 days, and you'll receive your initial designs on Day 4
When should we start?
BOOKING FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE, HOWEVER, RE-BOOKING FOR THE NEXT AVAILABLE DATE IS POSSIBLE SHOULD THAT FIT YOUR PROJECT TIMELINE.
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JANUARY 2026
Availability is limited to ensure one-on-one service and prompt response times.
Select a start date - this consultation lasts 7 days, and you'll receive your initial designs on Day 4
When should we start?
BOOKING FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE, HOWEVER, RE-BOOKING FOR THE NEXT AVAILABLE DATE IS POSSIBLE SHOULD THAT FIT YOUR PROJECT TIMELINE.
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FEBRUARY 2026
Availability is limited to ensure one-on-one service and prompt response times.
Select a start date - this consultation lasts 7 days, and you'll receive your initial designs on Day 4
When should we start?
BOOKING FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE, HOWEVER, RE-BOOKING FOR THE NEXT AVAILABLE DATE IS POSSIBLE SHOULD THAT FIT YOUR PROJECT TIMELINE.
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MARCH 2026
Availability is limited to ensure one-on-one service and prompt response times.
Select a start date - this consultation lasts 7 days, and you'll receive your initial designs on Day 4
When should we start?
BOOKING FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE, HOWEVER, RE-BOOKING FOR THE NEXT AVAILABLE DATE IS POSSIBLE SHOULD THAT FIT YOUR PROJECT TIMELINE.
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APRIL 2026
Availability is limited to ensure one-on-one service and prompt response times.
Select a start date - this consultation lasts 7 days, and you'll receive your initial designs on Day 4
When should we start?
BOOKING FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE, HOWEVER, RE-BOOKING FOR THE NEXT AVAILABLE DATE IS POSSIBLE SHOULD THAT FIT YOUR PROJECT TIMELINE.
-Katy in N.Carolina
So stoked now!
-Jenny in Georgia
Incredibly Thoughtful
-Susan in California
This service is a real gem
-Jennifer in Texas
Worth Every Penny!
Your journey begins with YOU. Complete the comprehensive questionnaire and provide photos, blueprints, and any inspiration links that capture your aesthetic preferences, unique vision, and design goals. Your time is valuable, so there are no meetings or calls—just seamless communication that fits your schedule.
Share Your Vision
Watch your ideas come to life with an innovative video presentation. You'll see multiple design concepts tailored to your style, ensuring you see the potential before any construction begins. A commitment to your satisfaction means unlimited revisions at no extra cost, guaranteeing that the final design is one you truly love.
See the Potential
03 of 03 / next
With a finalized design (or two) in hand, you’ll be ready to embark on the next phase of your project. Samples and a detailed Design plan provide all the information you or your on-site team need to bring your vision to life. You'll feel confident knowing that every decision you make is informed, intentional, and aligned with your personal style.
Feel Confident
How It Works
THe experience
01
-Katy, North Carolina
When I first told my husband we were going to spend money on design, I could feel his stomach drop. I said, look, babe- we are about to spend a lot of money on re-doing our home. Lets spend just a little bit more money on the front end so that we don't have to spend more money later re-doing something or not loving what we chose. After showing him Mel's before & after pictures, he immediately agreed with my recommendation. We knew our house had potential, and Mel laid out a beautiful plan to execute. I cannot wait to get started now!
“We don’t have to spend more money later re-doing something...”
02
-Kat, Texas
Mel is a gifted designer and communicator. She was able to articulate her reasoning that helped us to see exactly what and why she came up her plans while being kind and affirming. And Mel has already saved us time, money, and conflict. Her design plans are not only beautiful, but they are practical. When we have done other projects, it has been difficult and even unclear to us what we want and how to communicate it to our contractors. Not this time!
"Mel has already saved us time, money, and conflict."
03
-Sarah, Missouri
I knew our house needed updating but I didn't know how to achieve it or where to begin. Mel was able to quickly identify opportunities for making big improvements within our budget. She understood our special issues and helped us understand them too. Before the consultation I felt so overwhelmed and hopeless. After the consultation I now feel excited and hopeful that we can achieve a style that fits our desires and our budget. It was such a relief, and exciting, too!
"Mel was so insightful, so thoughtful, and so informative."
04
-Traci, North Carolina
Mel is extremely well-rounded in design, a solid planner and communicator and someone who keeps her promises most importantly. It is not common in today's world for people to do what they say they will do. Mel delivered on all timelines and her commitment to our project was felt at every turn. It's a design partnership, with open dialogue and mutual feedback and was very satisfying.
"The entire experience was exceptional."
Mel delivered! She exceeded all our expectations - not only does she have a very collaborative and time conscious approach, she's SO thoughtful of what you are seeking. And leaves NO question unanswered. Mel considers the full context of your home (period-built, location, neighborhood) in creating her design concepts. That was terrific. After the consult, I felt perfectly confident to advance my exterior renovation with my GC. Her design eye is superb, but it's her thoroughness and how she ensures you are equipped to execute the concept yourself that is really special.
"This service is a real gem among a lot of options out there."
Susan in California
This process was easy, focused, and I was delighted with the care that Mel took. I truly felt that she connected with my vision in a far deeper way than mere design suggestions. This consultation got me out of my head and the rabbit hole of design research and showed me the perfect vision for my home. I felt overjoyed at the end!
"I got way more than my money's worth."
Laura in Texas
Mel is talented, insightful, responsive and generous with her input and feedback. We could not have imagined a better experience even if we worked together in person. The renders were all so helpful in helping us make decisions in record time. And the video was a really great experience! Hearing her feedback over 30 minutes really breathed life into the renders. Without question, this is one of the most effective, valuable and fun ways to work on your project.
"This was one of the best experiences we've had as homeowners."
Wayne & Catherine in California
Mel nailed it in terms of my vision for our house. This was exactly the type of guidance I was looking for - I didn't need an architect, but didn't want to show my GC pics from Pinterest, either. I was floored with all Mel's support and her creativity, and I was impressed with her responsiveness. This was so worth it.
"After our consultation, I felt confident."
Erin in Washington
"We could get so much accomplished because of Mel's commitment to our project and her timeliness. If we had a change request or an idea, we had new renderings within hours. This process was so efficient, and we LOVE the results!
"We LOVE the results!"
Dale in Colorado
"Mel’s expertise and vision and speed and thoroughness are the best part of this experience. Incredible how we got exactly what we wanted and needed but how far it was from what we thought we originally wanted. I’ve sang Mel’s praises to everyone."
"We got exactly what we wanted"
Sarah in N. Carolina
"I feel like I'm much better equipped to make design decisions on the house moving forward, and my husband and I are more aligned now. We learned a lot about our house, and appreciate its architecture even more than we did going into the consultation!"
"I'm much better equipped"
Carol in Florida
"Working with Mel was fun and efficient. She has the process finely tuned, and her suggestions are transformative. The end result is a clear plan that I am excited about.
So worth it!"
"Her suggestions are transformative"
Lisa in Colorado
Lesley in North Carolina
"Don't hesitate! My only regret is not doing this sooner. If you're even contemplating a remodel, this is the first step."
Sarah in California
"Working with Mel was the best money I've ever spent. I'm feeling so much more confident."
Stephanie in Utah
"Mel's professional direction was a game changer for our renovation."
Meet your Exterior Designer
I'm Mel. Your Designer, Collaborator & Guide
As Founder and Principal Designer of West | South, my mission is to help you safeguard the investment you've made in your home by providing you with the best exterior design services available.
Bringing deep training and hands-on experience to your complex project - with climate-smart materials, elevated color palettes, and thoughtful finishing details - so every choice aligns with your taste, budget and your long-term goals.
Ready to feel calm and in control? Book your consultation and let’s begin.
With proven results and a refined process, I help homeowners make confident, lasting exterior decisions.
I've got you - start to finish
No commissions, or cookie-cutter selections. Sources from anywhere. So you’ll get a unique, personalized design, that fits your budget, with info your contractors can actually use.
Inspiration instead of upsells
You’ll have a seasoned design partner who brings both vision and expertise to the table, where your ideas are not only heard but celebrated. With designs that are handcrafted, not hallucinated.
Professional collaboration,
not guessing or AI
Because it’s your home, not mine, and you deserve a design that’s uniquely you - no matter your style.
Thoughtful, personalized designs
THE BEST
to be
BUILT
Homes Are
Expensive
It’s natural to want the cheapest design option.
Fast but thorough turnaround, unlimited revisions, complimentary samples, and one-on-one chats with your designer, with experienced and knowledgable answers. Empowering pep talks from someone who’s been there, whenever you might need one.
But they offer so much more
These consultations may cost more...
They won’t stand the test of time, either.
Do you want to feel like you have to do this all over again the second your contractor is done because you just hate the way it looks? Or because that trend has passed by the time the project is complete? You do not!
Those other services won’t meet your high standards,
Because this isn’t like other online exterior design services.
...but not the data you need to get your project done. You need the real, accurate color & materials info that your contractor, builder, and HOA can actually use. They don't want to see your ChatGPT picture; they want to know the exact materials and colors you want to put on your house.
How do I know? Because I’ve helped countless homeowners who were left confused or dejected by what they were given by those other online services - including AI.
It can give you a beautiful image...
And ChatGPT isn’t enough for a project this important.
Be Clear On The Next Steps
Explore All The Options
Be Aligned With Your Partner
Make Informed Decisions
Communicate Effectively
if you want to
Frequently Asked
Questions
It's time to see your dream home.
