Collaborative post
There’s a common misconception that you can’t add character to a new-build home. But that’s simply not true. Even if it looks a bit bland to begin with, it doesn’t matter. The rooms are simply a blank canvas, ready for you to express your personality. However, if you’re lacking a bit of inspiration, here are some tips for adding character and style to a new-build.
Build in storage
New homes don’t always come with a lot of storage. And floorspace can be at a premium, so you need to use it wisely. Therefore, it can be a good option to build in wardrobes, cabinetry and media walls. Custom-built fittings like these are not only practical but provide an opportunity to bring character and personality to your rooms. Using high-quality materials and a skilled carpenter will ensure your designs stand out and don’t look mass produced.
Use the power of wood
Square rooms and plain, flat walls can be made more characterful by adding texture. Wooden panelling is a great way to do this. It doesn’t necessarily need to be in a period style. For instance, slatted and ribbed panels work incredibly well in contemporary interiors.
It’s also worth considering other decorative additions. If the woodwork is a little plain, consider changing or adding in coving, architraves and skirting boards that are more characterful or noticeable. If you don’t want to rip anything out, you may be able to butt some decorative trim up against your architraves and skirting boards to embellish them.
Add in more texture
As well as wood, you can use a mix of hard and soft materials to add more texture and character. Textiles bring multiple benefits. They add more texture and warmth as well as colour and pattern. Plus, they can soften hard surfaces. But most importantly, using them is a good way to bring some individuality to your home. For example, you can use tapestries, wall hangings and long curtains alongside other soft furnishings such as plush shaggy rugs, sofas and bedding.In terms of hard materials that add texture, think rustic stone tiles, brick slips and 3D panels.
Bring in some colour
White and grey can be the dominant palette when you move into a newly built house. If this suits your tastes that’s fine. However, if you’d like your interior to feel warmer and show off more of your individual personality, it’s worth adding in more colour.
You could simply use bright accessories such as appliances, artwork, bedding, custom table covers and rugs or you might wish to go much further. You could go for a full-scale makeover by painting and wallpapering your walls and ceilings, laying patterned flooring and bringing in colourful, statement furniture.
Curate your own gallery wall
Gallery walls remain popular in homes because they don’t need to cost a lot of money but they do add an awful lot of personality. It’s also a versatile way to decorate your walls. You can use a range of frame styles, colours, and sizes for an eclectic look and add in mirrors, clocks, and neon signs as unique touches. You can also add in personal items or things that reflect your interests. For instance, if you like tennis, perhaps throw in some vintage racquets.
Switch up fixtures
Typically, you don’t get much say in the type of fittings that come with a new home. But that doesn’t mean you can’t change them. By switching out your kitchen cabinet doors, taps, bathroom lights and door handles, you can make your home a much more characterful place. For radiators, you could change them from standard white ones to something more stylish or cover them up. And in terms of sockets and switches, you could change the basic white plastic ones for gold or brass versions or for a customised colour.
Mix old in with new
One of the most effective ways to add character and period charm to a new-build home – that won’t look out of place or involve installing additional features such as fireplaces – is to mix in some old furnishings with the new. You needn’t overdo it. It could be a vintage sideboard or antique dresser or an old farmhouse table and a mix of second-hand chairs. Then sprinkle in a few smaller items such as gilt-framed paintings, old ceramics and vintage industrial light fittings to help blend things together.