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

Left image source: Suze

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

Right image source: PlusONE

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

Left image source: pics721

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

Left image source: Iriana Shiyan

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

Right image source: viczast

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.