House Face Lift Beginnings

I love my little brick bungalow house.  It is cozy and perfect for me.  However, I have been thinking lately of adding a little color to the exterior.  I've been thinking about it for a while actually - a long while.  I keep putting it off because I was kind of afraid of not liking the color and having to re-do it all.  That, and all the work that goes along with it.  I finally decided to take the plunge realizing that it is just paint.  Soooo, here is the garage before:

And here it is after - the color is Sherwin Williams Artifact.

I love it.  It adds depth and drama to the front of the house.  I added some painted trim around the front door as well in the same color.  Here is the before pic.

And the after:

A very productive day!  Next I want to paint the bay window and the window over the garage the same color.  I think it goes well with my red door too.  How about you?  Do you stick to neutrals for the exterior of your home or do you go for color?