How to Add Character to A New Build Home
Looking for ways to add character to your new build home?
While a box-fresh interior can provide the perfect blank canvas for you to decorate your home, it can also be incredibly daunting knowing where to start.
However this is actually one of the biggest advantages of a new build home, as the opportunities really are endless.
So, whether you’re looking to revamp a single room, or planning a full glow-up, we’ve pulled together our top tips for adding character to any home…
1. Wallpaper
Developers usually opt for white walls in new builds. This is largely down to cost, but to also avoid putting off potential buyers with a design that isn’t to their taste.
Wallpaper is an easy and affordable way to inject some personality and colour into your new build. Start small by just wallpapering a single wall - or, if you’re feeling bold, wallpapering all four walls in smaller spaces such as a utility or W/C is an instant way to add character to your home.
2. Install a fireplace
Fireplaces are a rare feature in contemporary new builds. However it’s hard to beat the feeling that a fireplace can add to your home, ideal for creating a warm and cosy atmosphere.
A free-standing electric stove is the easiest (and cheapest) way to achieve the look - requiring only a plug, so no need to worry about chimneys or air supplies!
If you’re after the real deal, a faux chimney breast could be the one for you. This can be used to hide the flue for your fireplace and create a more traditional look and feel. If you’re unsure on the best option for you, it’s best to consult a professional.
3. Fresh fixtures & fittings
The light fittings installed by developers are usually basic at best - usually a standard white cable and bare bulb, or simple spotlights.
If your space only has spotlights, don’t worry. Adding in some wall lights is a fairly inexpensive way of adding character to your room. You don’t need to re-wire your full room either for this - simply install your wall light and use re-chargable light bulbs!
If you do have pendant points, instead of just adding a new shade, consider replacing the full fitting. It isn’t a huge additional cost, but can help transform your room instantly. Go for a statement finish such as brushed brass or matt black to add some interest.
The same goes for your sockets and switches, too. Upgrading your standard white plastic ones for something a little more luxe will instantly take your home to the next level.
4. Vintage pieces
Mixing antique finds with modern furniture can instantly help to add warmth and character to a new build.
A few key pieces, such as a rustic dining table or vintage console, will do just the trick.
Our preference is wooden mid-century or Scandinavian furniture with strong silhouettes - these will compliment the more simple architecture of your new build and add warmth through their wood tones.
5. Don’t be afraid of colour
When it comes to decorating your new build, don’t let the bright white put you off adding some bolder colours.
Be sure to stick to colours you already love, whilst ensuring your space is still functional for day-to-day living.
For areas where you want to create a cosy atmosphere, such as your bedroom and living room, you can afford to go a little darker and richer with your colours. Whereas areas such as a study or kitchen will likely need a brighter palette.
6. Add panelling
Panelling is one of our favourite ways to add character to a home - and is pretty cost-effective, too.
Less can often be more when it comes to wall panelling. Depending on the style you’re going for, opting to panel just wall, instead of a full room, can help create a focal point - as well as being a little more purse friendly!
As well as its aesthetic benefits, panelling can also be used to conceal any uneven surfaces or distract from any other areas of the room you want to keep the eye away from. Board & batten style panelling is great if you want to achieve a bolder, more modern look; whereas decorative beaded panelling will help you create a more traditional and subtle look.
(Stay tuned for our next blog post, which will talk you through all the different types of panelling, and which will work best for you!)
7. Gallery Walls
Gallery walls are a great opportunity to add character to your home.
You can tailor each piece of art to suit your personal style, and mix and match different frames and art styles for a really eclectic look. Don’t be afraid to incorporate a range of differing styles, too - as long as they are in the same colour palette, it’s a great way to add interest to a space and instantly grab the attention of guests.
8. Add Architectural Details
Most new build homes lack any architectural details such as coving, plinths, ceiling roses, picture rails, dados and architraves to maintain a clean-lined aesthetic. The result can be a clean, modern space - however can also be a little dull and uninteresting. Luckily, architectural features like these are a relatively easy addition once you’re moved in.
Start by deciding which architectural period or style you prefer, as each will provide a different look and feel for the space. For example, Victorian ceiling roses are a lot more detailed than Georgian, which will offer a more subtle, understated feel. Different coving and skirting types are available, too, to help you achieve either a classic contemporary look, or a more traditional.
Get in touch with our interior design team today to see how we can help you achieve the space of your dreams!