There are many benefits to purchasing a new-build home – superior insulation, modern technology and advanced heating systems (including renewable energy sources), all lead to lower energy bills for the home-owner.
Moreover, the idea of buying fresh out of the wrapper can be more appealing than the prospect of undoing someone else’s botched DIY jobs and unusual taste in decor.
The downsides are often smaller gardens, lack of character and the absence of period features.
So, how can you inject some personality onto a bland, boxy new-build?
Read on for some easy-to-apply suggestions:
Colour
The majority of new homes come with freshly-painted white walls which many homeowners choose to keep. White is the safe option but injecting colour into rooms is an easy way to switch things up. Colour doesn’t have to mean bold or dark, there are so many beautiful neutral paint shades around for contemporary alternatives to white. It’s also worth considering which direction a room faces when choosing a new hue, most reputable paint brands will advise on this.
Some great shades to look at include:
Furniture
It’s so tempting to want to fill a new-build with only new things but that can feel stark and soulless. Mixing older or vintage items in with modern pieces creates a more interesting aesthetic. The same is true for artworks. Existing prints can be updated by painting frames in a new colour or by adding patterned mounts – online marketplace Etsy is a great source for this. A gallery wall, with pictures old and new, is a great way to elevate a dull living room or hallway.
Texture
The panelling trend is showing no signs of abating and is a good way to add texture to featureless walls. For anyone keen to roll up their sleeves and try it, home kit options are the way to go; Roomix is well worth a look. Also, The Wood Veneer Hub sells pre-cut panelling sheets in selected wood finishes, some are specially made to assist with noise reduction too.
Lighting
Layers of lighting help with a warm ambience at home. A main ceiling light is a good focal point and a large pendant lamp can be a bold choice – long cables can be held in place with hooks. Spotlights are a new-build favourite but can be cold. Swapping white or metallic downlighter bezel trims for colourful ones is a modern and inexpensive way to lift a cold spotlight. Lower level lighting with table lamps, bonus points for wooden bases (painted or natural) is another good way to create a cosy vibe in any space. Pooky, and Marks & Spencer are all great places to source modern lighting designs.
Soft Furnishings
Rugs are a great tool for anchoring a room and adding instant warmth. And the more the merrier when it comes to throws and cushions on seating; they don’t all have to be matchy-matchy, adding contrasting colours looks great too. If budget allows, natural flooring options such are hardwood or real wool are more characterful than vinyl or synthetic options. Jute and seagrass are also lovely though not ideal for high traffic areas. Striped runners are a contemporary choice for hall stairs – check out Dunelm for some well-priced options.
