HOW TO ADD CHARACTER TO YOUR NEW BUILD HOME
When browsing the property sites, do you love the idea of a newly built home? Freshly painted and fitted out with the essentials, you can move straight in. Then, you have a blank canvas which can be styled over time. With this in mind, I’d like to offer some simple tips on how to add character to your new build home.
Advantages of Buying a New Build
Some people love a renovation project or the character of an older property, however, there are many advantages to buying a new build. Firstly, they have to be constructed to comply with the latest building standards. This can make them more energy efficient than older properties. What’s more, they come with a warranty.
Secondly, there is no upper chain, which makes the buying process less complicated. Equally, there are first time buyer deals which are only available on new builds. What’s more, developers offer incentives such as the Deposit Unlock Scheme or covering the cost of stamp duty. These can make it more affordable to get on the property ladder.
However, when you first move in there is little distinction between your home and all the neighbouring properties. The standard layout and finish may work, yet they lack the personalisation that transforms a house into a home. So, how do you add character and make it your own?
10 Simple and Stylish Tips For New Build Properties
Congratulations! You’ve got the keys to your new home. It is such an exciting time and you can’t wait to move in and get those boxes unpacked.
The neutral walls and fittings look clean, but they often lack warmth and character. So, how can you inject individualism that better reflects your style?
Here are my 10 tips:
1. Add Panelling & Moulding
These strong interior design trends work well in hallways and/or your reception room. For a contemporary look, stick to the simple lines of Shaker-style panelling, tongue & groove or wooden slats. They can be painted in the same colour as your walls for a subtle and classy finish. My advice would be to add warmth with a different paint colour to the stark white walls that many developers favour. How about straw yellow, light peach or pale sage green?
2. Invest in a Piece of Bespoke Joinery
It may seem like quite an expense, but I believe a room can be instantly upgraded with an item of bespoke joinery. Timber adds warmth and fittings like built-in shelves, cabinets and window seats add a focal point to the room. Quality joinery looks great, optimises every inch of space and will be an item to treasure for decades.
3. Switch it Up!
Change handles and switches to set your property apart. From replica antique door knobs to modern light switches, replacing a few fittings can instantly change the look of your home. For inspiration, take a look at Willow & Stone and Corston Architectural Detail.
4. Embrace Wallpaper
There are beautiful wallpaper designs to suit all tastes. For instant impact, wrap a room in wallpaper to inject pattern and colour. For a lighter touch, you can wallpaper the back of a bookcase, the inside of a dresser or the back of an alcove. It’s a great way to break up the white walls.
5. Create Zoned Areas
Zone open-plan areas using colour, lighting and rugs to create defined spaces. This is an effective way to create your home office or children’s play space, without needing separate rooms.
6. Make a Statement with Lighting
Draw the eye, illuminate and control the ambience of your home with statement lighting. It’s an effective way to highlight specific areas. For example, a larger lampshade over a dining table makes a feature of this social space.
7. Use Soft Furnishings to Make your Home Cosy
Bring cosiness to your home with soft furnishings. Cushions, throws, rugs, curtains and blankets add colour, pattern and texture to your interiors. Ideally opt for natural materials, such as wool and linen.
8. Mix Old & New
Not everything needs to be new. Buy furniture and fittings from antique and second-hand shops or eBay. It’s a good way to create your unique style and extend your budget. You might focus on a particular colour palette or design period to achieve a cohesive look. Remember, it is also possible to upcycle: sand and finish or reupholster preloved pieces to make them your own.
9. Hang a Gallery Wall
Create a gallery wall filled with framed photos, prints, postcards and paintings that have sentimental value. If you use Command picture hanging strips, you don’t even need to drill any holes!
10. One Step at a Time
See this as an ongoing project that will gradually achieve your ideal look. When you first move in, there is unlikely to be sufficient time and budget to do it all at once. Will you address one room as a priority or focus on updating an item, such as window dressings throughout the house? I recommend focusing on a style and plan. Then, enjoy the process!
Interior Design Insight
Have my tips got you fired up and excited about bringing personality to your new build home? I’m sure you have plenty of great ideas, but if you are unsure of where to start or how to make the most of your home, my Personalised Design Consultation service might be of benefit. Let me solve your interior dilemmas and help you achieve the home of your dreams.
If a Personalised Design Consultation can help you understand how to add character to your new build home, get in touch.