How To Add Character To A New Build Home

New build homes offer a blank canvas for personalisation, allowing homeowners to infuse their unique style into every corner. However, the challenge often lies in adding warmth and character to spaces that can sometimes feel too pristine or lacking in history. As an interior designer, here are some top tips to help you transform your new build into a home brimming with personality and charm.

1. Mix Old and New

Combining contemporary elements with vintage or antique pieces creates an eclectic and lived-in feel. Consider incorporating heirloom furniture, vintage light fixtures, or reclaimed wood elements. These items can serve as focal points and conversation starters, adding depth and narrative to your space.

2. Layer Textures and Materials

A variety of textures and materials can break the monotony of a new build’s often uniform finishes. Mix different fabrics like linen, velvet, and wool in your soft furnishings. Use natural materials like wood, stone, and metal to add richness and contrast. For example, a rustic wooden coffee table paired with a sleek modern sofa creates an inviting and dynamic look.

3. Add Architectural Details

Enhancing architectural features can dramatically alter the feel of your home. Consider installing crown molding, wainscoting, or panelling to add depth and interest to walls. Ceiling beams, whether real or faux, can add rustic charm or industrial edge. Even a simple dado rail can introduce a sense of history and craftsmanship.

4. Personalize with Art and Accessories

Curating a collection of artwork and accessories is an excellent way to reflect your personality and interests. Opt for a mix of pieces, including family photos, travel souvenirs, and local artisan crafts. Create gallery walls or display collections that tell a story and evoke memories.

5. Use Bold Paint and Wallpaper

Paint and wallpaper are powerful tools for adding character. Bold, dark colors can create a cozy, sophisticated atmosphere, while bright, vibrant hues bring energy and fun. Wallpaper with interesting patterns or textures can be used to create accent walls or to line the back of shelves and cabinets for a surprise element.

6. Incorporate Statement Lighting

Lighting does more than illuminate a space; it sets the mood and enhances the overall aesthetic. Statement lighting fixtures like chandeliers, pendant lights, or unique floor lamps can serve as eye-catching features. Layered lighting, including ambient, task, and accent lighting, can create a warm and inviting environment.

7. Introduce Greenery

Plants bring life and vibrancy to any home. Use a variety of plants, from large potted trees to small succulents, to add color and texture. Unique planters and pots can further enhance the character of your space.

8. Play with Patterns

Patterns can inject personality and dynamism into your home. Mix and match different patterns in your textiles, such as rugs, cushions, and curtains. Stripes, florals, geometrics, and abstracts can all work together if they share a common color palette.

9. Customize Built-Ins

Built-in furniture like bookshelves, window seats, and cabinetry can add both functionality and character. Customize these elements to fit your style by adding unique hardware, paint, or decorative molding. Built-ins can make a new build feel more established and thoughtfully designed.

10. Experiment with Open Shelving

Open shelving allows you to display your favorite items and adds an informal, accessible feel to your kitchen or living areas. Use these shelves to showcase beautiful dishware, cookbooks, or decorative objects that reflect your personality.

11. Consider the Small Details

Don't overlook the impact of smaller design details. Switching out standard hardware for unique drawer pulls and handles, using decorative switch plates, and incorporating interesting door knobs can all add a touch of individuality.

By implementing some or all of these things, you can transform your new build home into a space that feels uniquely yours, filled with character and warmth. Remember, the key to adding character is to mix personal touches with thoughtful design choices, creating a home that tells your story and feels authentically you.