From Drab to Fab: Bringing a House Portrait to Life in Watercolor

When this client came to me with photos of her grandmother’s ranch home in Troy, Michigan, I knew this gift deserved a little extra sparkle. The original photos were… let’s say, a bit “winter-worn” and brown, so I decided to give the piece a cheerful summer makeover. Think blooming trees, lush bushes, and that big front tree stealing the spotlight—all in vibrant, hand-painted watercolor glory.

This custom house portrait captures the charm of a simple white brick ranch while letting the landscaping do all the heavy lifting. I focused on giving depth and life to the scene: the front tree and bushes pop with detail, while the trees behind the house are softer and brighter, creating a dreamy sense of distance. The result? A hand-painted house portrait that transforms everyday greenery into a living, breathing landscape—a gift that’s both beautiful and personal. The client’s reaction says it all:

"Fantastic work and great communication to make sure it was exactly what I wanted. A beautiful gift."

If you’d like a custom watercolor painting of a home—whether for a gift, a keepsake, or just because—you know where to find me! Each piece is hand-painted with care, capturing the heart and soul of the place you love most.

Learn how to commission a hand-painted watercolor house portrait ➜