How to add character to a new build (and what to avoid!)
TL;DR:
Looking at how to make a new build house have character? Buying a new build means you’ve got a blank canvas on your hands! It’s a gradual process, but small upgrades, whether it’s including hobbies or planning living spaces, can make a big difference. Don’t forget the exterior – a freshly painted door or outdoor lighting can improve overall kerb appeal. Take your time, the best homes evolve gradually with their owners!
Searching for a pop of personality?
Moving into a new-build home can often feel a tad impersonal – after all, it doesn’t feel quite like you yet! The good news? This is a great opportunity to build a home that fully encapsulates your personality. No need to contend with any questionable décor or dodgy DIY jobs left behind by previous owners – this is a completely blank canvas!
Plus, adding character to a new home doesn’t have to equal major renovations or a huge budget. Making small, thoughtful alterations over time can transform your new build into a space that feels unique.
From clever set-ups and cosy lighting to plant pots and door colours, in this blog, we’ll take you through how to make a new build house have character. Let’s take a look!
How to add character to a new build interior?
Here’s our four favourite ways you can add character to a new build:
1. Focus on adjusting the layout to suit your everyday life
Before you turn to paint swatches and new furniture, it’s best to first consider how your household actually uses the space, from the way people travel through the room to where the light falls when you’re relaxing.
Planning your layout around the way your family actually lives makes the house more personal and less like a show home. Whether you’re placing some storage where the schoolbags get dropped or putting an armchair in the corner that gets the best sunlight during your evening reading hour, the important thing is that it’s all curated around what’s best for you!
2. Don’t forget the colour!
Another great way of adding character to a new build is through colour. When we say new-builds are a blank canvas, we mean it! So, whether it’s a feature wall or some patterned wallpaper, adding a splash of colour can really make the space feel homely.
Even if neutrals are more your style, pillows, rugs, artwork, or a carefully placed throw are all brilliant ways to add a splash of colour whilst still fitting your aesthetic.
If you’re buying with Wain Homes, be sure to take advantage of our Make It Yours scheme, which lets you personalise flooring and finishes throughout your home ahead of time – a wonderful foundation to build on!
3. Add some different lighting options
Lighting is one of the forgotten heroes of home decoration – it has a huge influence on how your home feels! Instead of always relying on the big ceiling light, consider blending a few different types together:
- Ambient lighting – This is general room lighting, such as the ceiling light.
- Task lighting – Focused lighting used for specific activities, like reading or working.
- Accent lighting – Such as table lamps or picture lighting that adds to the atmosphere.
For example, in a living room, this could be seen as a ceiling light, a floor lamp beside an armchair, and a few lamps on a coffee table. Together, you’ll find it just adds to the cosy feel that will make you feel right at home!
Check out our blog for more tips and tricks!
4. Make your interests the focal points
The best homes have the people that live in them as the centre points. Instead of filling the bookshelves with generic accessories, ensure the items on display are personally connected to your household. This could include family photos, musical instruments, a vinyl collection or a few favourite books.
It’s always worth seeing what others have done in your position! There are some brilliant fellow new-builders who have plenty of content you can get inspiration from, including @new_build_forever_home, @newbuildtohome, and @av.home.
How to add character to a new build exterior?
When asking ‘how to make a new build have character’, it’s easy to forget that the exterior matters just as much as the inside. After all, this is the first impression everybody has of your home!
Here are a few ideas to consider:
- Personalising the front door area – A fresh coat of paint in a bold shade can transform the look of your home right away. Pair this up with a new house number, a stylish knocker or some matching planters and it will feel like a different place!
- Adding plants and flowers to the garden – Gardening isn’t for everyone, but it is an easy way of making your home feel unique! For those who prefer low-maintenance greenery, try some evergreen shrubs or lavender for year-round interest without sacrificing every weekend to gardening.
- Adding some exterior lighting – The outdoors are no different! Good lighting can make all the difference. Try out some wall lanterns or subtle path lighting to improve safety and ambience.
These are all achievable and low-maintenance – a great way to add some additional character to your new-build without breaking the bank! Feeling inspired? Why not take a look at our garden design ideas!
What are common mistakes when upgrading a new build?
While personalising your home, it’s best to avoid falling for a few common pitfalls:
- Blocking natural light – keep the space feeling bright and airy!
- Choosing impractical flooring or fabrics for busy family life
- Underestimating storage needs
- Rushing to complete every project immediately – slow and steady is the best approach to take.
The most characterful homes evolved gradually over time. Don’t rush it – you’ll get there!
Ready to start painting?
Like other new-build misconceptions, the idea that they have no personality is a problem that is easy to solve! With a few affordable changes and a bit of careful consideration, you’ll have a home that is truly your own!
After all, the real secret of how to make a new build house have character is making memories. As the years go by, your home will evolve with you, and curtain colours or kitchen finishes will feel small in comparison to the smiles and laughter that you’ll cherish!
If you’re ready to take the next step, why not browse through our available properties across England. In need of more details, just get in touch with our team.
Happy decorating!
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