We've said it before, and we'll say it again: Homeowners are increasingly investing in ways to make their existing home designs work better for them since many owners are deciding to stay put rather than move.

But good design doesn't stop at the kitchen, the bathroom, the clever under-stairs storage, or the creative shifting of room functions. Exteriors must also work hard.More than offering safety from the elements, siding boost curb appeal and, when done well, wraps the house like a gift that homeowners get to open every time they pull into the driveway.

Siding programs such as Ply Gem's Designed Exterior (designedexterior.com) and Exterior Portfolio by Crane (exteriorportfolio.com) have had great success in giving contractors and remodelers easy access to siding design ideas and the products to bring those ideas to life.

Building on this mix-and-match concept, the collection of products in the slideshow at left represents a range of products currently available. Choose one siding item, one stone accent, and one trim design and you're on your way to a new stylish exterior design. -Lauren Hunter