Buying a new home means having the chance to design the space to your tastes. It can be hard to imagine how your home will look when someone is already living in it. New homes offer a neutral space, which is perfect for exploring design elements you like.
Making your mark on a home doesn’t need to be done in one go. You can take time and make small changes rather than commit to huge renovations or major projects. Here are some small changes you can make to help your home suit you.
Colour and textiles
One of the quickest ways to inject personality is through soft furnishings. Cushions, blankets and rugs are all easy to install and add pops of colour.
Adding bright, warm-toned cushions draws the eye into the room, instantly making it feel inviting and cosy. Layering textures adds to this, so consider having a fuzzy or knitted throw for practical beauty.
Rugs are really handy for creating a focal point in the room. If the furniture is fairly neutral, a patterned or coloured floor mat helps to add style and break through the minimalism whilst remaining low-key.
Personal touches through accessories
It’s not just soft furnishings where you can add colour and interest. Other accessories can make a home feel lived in and cherished.
Walls can feel bare, especially if they are a plain, neutral colour. In fact, a base like this means you can do anything you like with them. You could display your favourite artworks or curate a memory wall full of photos and mementoes.
Placing items carefully keeps clutter at a minimum, helping rooms to feel lived-in but not overwhelmed.
Furniture choices that reflect you
To keep spaces tidy, multi-functional furniture is a must. Beds with hidden storage, extendable dining tables and bookshelves with hidden desks all add to storage availability without encroaching on the room.
Accent chairs and unique pieces of furniture are another easy way to show off your style with ease. Shelving can be a great way to zone off areas in a room whilst displaying personal items and books.
Greenery and natural elements
For some, there is nothing better than having a little bit of nature inside your home. Not only do plants and greenery look good, but they are beneficial for your health, too. Some plants help to purify the air, leaving you breathing cleaner air, which is great for your respiratory system. There is also evidence that plants help to reduce stress.
Natural fibres can be introduced too. Having elements made from materials such as bamboo can give your home an eco-boost whilst still looking chic.
Layering lighting
One topic of discussion in most families is the debate surrounding The Big Light. Some think it is fine, whilst others dislike having it on at all. These people rarely use the overhead light, as it tends to be brighter and all-encompassing.
The trick to lighting is to layer it. Add in different options such as floor lamps, table lamps and accent lights. Being strategic like this means you can control the level of brightness as well as highlight specific areas at will.
Consider the type of bulbs used as well. Brighter, white lights can be quite harsh. Look for warm-toned bulbs to keep your home feeling cosy and calm.
