Add character to your new build
Do you dream of Victorian townhouses and cottages in the country, but live in a modern two-up two-down? Many new houses lack the charm of older homes, but with these handy tips you can add character to any new build!
Feature walls
In a new build it's likely that magnolia walls abound and the best way to get rid of that showroom feel is to make a feature wall. Choose a wall that is the clear focal point of a room, such as the one with the fireplace or at the head of the bed.
• Paint: It's only one wall so go for a brighter or darker colour than you might normally choose
• Wallpaper: Like with paint, don't be afraid to choose bold wallpaper patterns
• Wall art: Whether it's a hand-painted mural or some of your favourite framed pieces, think big and eye-catching
• Photographs: Make it personal with a wall covered with photographs in lots of different frames
Vintage furniture
Unless you're going for the über-slick look, filling a modern home with all new furniture isn't the way to go - instead, bring in characterful vintage pieces.
• For traditional style, remember that worn edges and distressed paintwork give the appearance of age
• Don't be afraid to mix eras: combine vintage with modern so you don't end up with themed rooms
• Try not to go over the top. You don't need to clutter every corner; just pick some great pieces and let them do the talking
• You can find some great bargain furniture in charity shops, at auctions and online
Luxurious lighting
You don't have to stick with boring lighting. Give any room personality by texturing the lighting and changing the mood depending on the time of day.
• Floorlamps and side lamps let you turn off the main light come evening and relax in a more softly lit atmosphere
• Get rid of boring, plain lampshades and replace them with pretty lampshades that better reflect your style
• Novelty lights and fairy lights are wonderfully quirky, and work particularly well in kids' bedrooms
Divine details
New builds don't come with those gorgeous little architectural details that make older homes so appealing, but fear not! You can add them yourself.
• For your bigger pieces of furniture, choose items with the carved details and decorative moldings that your room might be missing
• Decorate interior doors with new doorknobs and other accessories, such as lock escutcheons and push plates
• If your budget is a bit bigger, you can always add your own dado rails and ceiling roses for some authentic vintage charm
• Can't afford dado rails? Simply change the paint colour to a paler shade near the ceiling
Focal points
The final touch to making your house unique is to give each room a focal point that catches the eye and shows off your style.
• Fireplaces and mantlepieces make great centrepieces, so make the most of them with large pieces of artwork or bunches of flowers
• For rooms with less obvious focal points, dress up windows with striking bunched curtains and simple pelmets
• Make a good first impression at your front door, with a personalised letterbox or a pretty house number plaque
For even more home decoration ideas, don't forget to visit DotComGiftShop.
