From the blank canvas that they offer and their energy-efficient design to the peace of mind that comes hand-in-hand with knowing that everything is brand new, there are numerous benefits of owning a newly built home. When it comes to character, however, we think it’s fair to say that they’re lacking somewhat!
With that in mind, as interior designers, it can’t come as a surprise to you that one of the most common questions we’re asked sounds a lot like: “How can I add character to my newly built property?”
For that reason, we’ve decided to dedicate this month’s blog to that very question. Using our client’s stunning family home in Bristol as an example, here are 6 easy ways to add character and turn a newly built house into a home…
1. Avoid the temptation to paint everything white
Though we appreciate that painting everything white feels like a safe option when you first pick up the keys to your new home, nothing screams ‘new build’ more than white walls and grey carpets! For that reason, if you’re looking for easy ways to add character to your home, opting for an earthy, traditional colour palette is a great starting point. As we mentioned in last month’s Q+A, we love the ‘slaked lime’ range by Little Greene Paint Company as it can be paired with so many colours but feels timeless throughout the seasons. We used various shades from the range throughout our Bristol project and though we’re biased (!) we like to think that the results speak for themselves! Looking to add more colour but not sure where to start? Use nature’s colour palette for inspiration and you can’t go too wrong.
2. Get creative with natural textures and layers
One of the most striking differences between old and new properties is that the former tend to have quirkier layouts that add charm and personality whereas the latter have predictable floor plans that can feel two-dimensional if left untouched. With that in mind, whether you live in the city centre or the heart of the Somerset countryside, one of the easiest ways to add character and intrigue to any room is by playing around with textures. Natural materials and fabrics are a great way of bringing the outdoors in and adding depth to a room when layered (think combinations of linen, cotton, wool and/or jute… and you’re on the right track). Play around with patterns and dimensions too. A combination of throw cushions in various shapes and sizes on sofas and beds feels inviting and creates a welcomed sense of layering and cosiness.
3. Play around with lighting to add ambience
Don’t underestimate the power of well-thought-out lighting, too. Modern homes tend to rely on multiple spotlights or a single pendant light hanging from the centre of the room. By introducing a combination of wall lights, floor lamps, table lamps and pendants, you’ll create interest and a sense of ambience throughout your home in no time. Try a low-hanging pendant light over the dining room table; table lamps on either side of the bed; floor lamps next to your favourite reading spot or picture lights above your favourite piece of art. Don’t have electrical sockets in the right place? Search for battery-powered lights and thank us later!
4. Add bespoke storage, shelving and built-in furniture
Random nooks and crannies that are perfect for storage are typical in older properties. For that reason, investing in bespoke storage solutions is a surefire way of adding character to your home and – when designed carefully – is guaranteed to maximise space. Even if you’re not a bookworm, bespoke bookshelves are a stunning focal point and perfect for displaying photos and ornaments. Tailor-made storage for utility and boot rooms combines practicality with style. And bespoke bench seating with hidden storage is another firm favourite of ours, too!
5. Transform plain walls with panelling
Adding panelling to plain walls is one of the most effective ways of re-creating period features throughout a home. Live in the heart of the English countryside and keen to recreate the countryside aesthetic? Try adding tongue and groove panelling to utility rooms, downstairs toilets or bathrooms for a traditional feel. Based in the centre of town instead? Use wainscoting panelling in bedrooms, hallways and living areas for a chic, timeless aesthetic.
Finally…
6. Work with what you’ve got and mix old and new
Adding character to a home doesn’t have to cost a fortune. It’s simply an opportunity to get creative and work with pre-existing items! For instance, in our Bristol project, instead of replacing the kitchen in its entirety, we resprayed the kitchen cupboards in park life by coat paints and replaced the handles, removed the plastic behind the hob and added beautiful zellige tiles across the run of the kitchen (saving thousands of pounds in the process). Furthermore, instead of replacing the whole bathroom suite, we removed the plastic bath panel and replaced it with a shaker-style panel painted in card room green by farrow and ball to compliment the vanity unit that we had installed. That coupled with a fresh lick of paint in muted tones and the introduction of a beautiful window dressing and stunning botanical artwork created a ‘before’ and ‘after’ transformation that we’re rather proud of!
So there you have it – 6 easy ways to add character to a newly built home!
We’ll be back next month with a roundup of our advice for aspiring interior designers.
In the meantime, did you miss our quickfire Q+A last month? From our golden rules for interior design to our most and least favourite parts of the job, catch up on last month’s blog and get to know us better here.
