There are many benefits to living in a new-build home, but one thing that is often lacking is the delightful character that comes with owning an older property. The good news is, that with the right interior design elements, you can transform your blank canvas into a warm, inviting, and unique home that’s full of personality.
In this guide, I’m sharing some of my favourite ways to add character to a new build house. Starting with architectural details, right through to soft furnishings, art, and accessories—I’ve got you covered. Many of these ideas you can implement yourself with a little determination, or a bit of help from your local handyman.
Let’s dive in.
Add Some Architectural Features
In many new-build homes you will find that there are very few architectural details. Some examples of architectural details you can add yourself include crown molding and trim, baseboards, and window and door trim. You can also add panelling to the walls to help give your space a more traditional look.
There are lots of panelling options available that are quick and easy to install, so in many cases, you can do this yourself without the help of a joiner.
Ceilings are often neglected too. Depending on your interior design style and the height of your ceilings, you may want to consider coffered ceilings, wood beams, or beadboard to make your ceilings stand out. This is more of a specialist job, so you will need to get contractors involved for ceiling work.
Bespoke Carpentry
You may need to employ the services of your local joiner to help you at this stage, but if you’ve got the budget for it, the results are worth every penny.
Some example of bespoke carpentry you can add to your home include:
- Bookcases and Shelving: Built-in bookcases or shelves can add storage and display space while giving rooms a custom feel.
- Window Seats: Create cosy nooks with built-in window seats.
- Built-in Wardrobes: Install custom wardrobes for both functionality and style.
- Dining Nooks: If you don’t have a dedicated dining room already, having a dining nook built into your kitchen is a great way to maximise you space whilst adding bags of character.
Image via Armac Martin
If going bespoke isn’t within your budget, you can purchase larger furniture pieces and tailor them slightly to make the look built-in. There are some great IKEA hacks for this!
For example, this large Hemnes storage combination would look great in either a living room or a kitchen. It provides plenty of storage, and gives you the option to add more units if you have a larger space to fill.
Bring Your Walls to Life
The right paint colour can transform a room, and there are plenty of paint brands to choose from, whatever your budget. In fact, paint is often the easiest and cheapest way to transform your space. Check out some of the best dining room paint colours to transform your space.
If you want to go a step further, choose a gorgeous wallpaper. Silk and linen effect wallpapers are a great way to make your home feel luxurious without breaking the bank.
Goodbye Grey Carpet
Developers LOVE a grey carpet, but honestly I can’t think of anything I like less than a cheap grey carpet throughout the home.
Hardwood flooring or LVT will not only look better, but it will stand the test of time, and you won’t have to worry about stains and marks. You can always layer rugs on top to add texture and colour.
Burley Minerale Herringbone Tile
Choose distinctive flooring materials, such as reclaimed wood, patterned tile, or herringbone patterns.
Layer Your Lighting
Image via Velux
Install eye-catching chandeliers, pendant lights, or sconces to create focal points around your room. A low pendant light over your dining area will help to define the zone, and make it feel more intimate and cosy.
It’s also important to use a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to add depth and ambiance to your space. As I always say, you can never have too many lamps!
Invest in Quality Furniture
Invest in high-quality, timeless furniture that will stand the test of time. Just because your home is modern, you don’t need to go overboard with modern furniture. Instead, blend a mixture of thoughtfully curated antique and vintage furniture pieces with a few more well-made modern finds to create a space that is timeless yet practical.
Investing in custom-made furniture that fits your space perfectly and reflects your style is another great option. A statement coffee table or dining table can make a great focal point for a room.
You can also breathe new life into vintage furniture with updated upholstery. Whether you already own the perfect wingback chair, or you find one at your local charity shop that needs some love, the perfect fabric can transform it into your new favourite chair.
Made to Measure Window Treatments
Although buying made-to-measure curtains and blinds is usually more expensive than ready made, the result you will get is worth every penny. Your room will look more polished, and the perfect fit will help reduce your heating bills in the winter and give you control over the amount of light coming into your room.
When it comes to hiding ugly UPVC windows, layering voiles underneath your curtains can do the trick nicely. This will gently disguise the window frames while still letting light flood into the room. Hang your curtains as high and wide as possible to visually enlarge your window and let in as much light as possible while the curtains are open.
Indoor Plants and Trees
Indoor plants and trees are a great way to bring your space to life, and can even help soften and shape your space. If you are unable (or don’t want) to have a real tree inside your home, there are some gorgeous artificial trees available. I love artificial Olive trees in the home against neutral walls for that relaxed Mediterranean vibe.
Art and Accessories
No room is complete without some beautiful art and some interesting accessories. If you’re on a tight budget, charity shops are a great place to source wall art and ornaments for your home, but you might need to shop around a bit.
If you can afford to spend a little more, check out The Affordable Art Fair or The Other Art Fair, or local artists in your area and invest in some high quality original art that you can keep forever.
My Final Thoughts on Adding Character to Your New Build Home
I hope you have found these ideas useful. Adding personality to your new build home can take a while but taking it slowly is the way to go. Try not to worry about making your home ‘Instagram worthy’, and instead focus on creating a space that reflects your unique personality and makes you feel at home the moment you step through the door.
If you are moving into a new-build property and you have any questions for me, please feel free to ask away in the comments.
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