Character and period charm can be easily incorporated into the home, regardless of a property’s age and era. New build homes are often finished with sleek lines, minimalist interiors and modern finishes – ideal for many, but for others the benefits of a new build complemented by a more traditional feel is the ultimate sweet spot.

When it comes to decorating a new build, the world is your oyster. So, if you are looking to put your own stamp on your home, here are a few top tips:

Combining new with old

While buying antiques or upcycling old furniture isn’t a fast-track method to adding character into your home, it will certainly add depth and authenticity when done well. To avoid a stark contrast between new and old, select one or two vintage pieces per room – such as a rolled-leg sofa and an older side board – paired with mid-century lighting or more modern accessories to ‘blend’ the two together.

Scandinavian styles, lighter woods and smaller pieces of furniture work equally as well and can look less ‘heavy’ or overriding of more modern features in the room.

This same look and feel can be achieved with log burners and reclaimed fire places – both adding an element of authenticity. Roll-top baths are also a great way of creating a sense of luxury, even in the smallest of rooms.

Add in texture

New builds can be a great blank canvas and allow home owners to express their character when decorating and adding soft furnishings. Textures are a great way to bring subtle depth, so you may want to look into layering rugs or swapping out cut pile carpets for loop pile carpets for more of a lived-in feel. Wooden floors or reclaimed tiles can also have the same effect, as can a stair runner complete with brushed metal stair rods.

Soft furnishings, such as pillows and throws, can also add character as well as injecting more textures and colour. Velvet, cottons, shearling and tufted pillows can all achieve this look, while wool throws can lend a cosy feel.

All in the detail

Perhaps the easiest way to incorporate character into your home and blend old with new is through accessories. A reclaimed wooden mirror, antique door knobs and handles, ornate frames complete with prints or photos can spruce up your interiors, and are a nod to more traditional English country homes. Wicker baskets, traditional radiators and letter boxes can all be utilised to reflect your personality and style.

Soft wall lighting, table lamps and pendant lighting will also help set a mood and add a feeling of warmth, especially when using a yellow light rather than a white one. Curtains, shutters and blinds can also transform a space.

Don’t forget the walls

Adding interest to your walls can be a quick and easy way of creating a more traditional feel. Panelling, picture rails and dado rails, synonymous with Victorian homes, can be erected easily, adding depth and detail to a room.

When it comes to painting your walls, earthy tones can work really well. Chalky greens, burnt oranges and softer neutrals can create a more intimate feel, as opposed to crisp white walls. If you’re feeling bold, you could try colour washing a room and paint the walls and woodwork and even sometimes the ceiling in one colour.

If you want to use wallpaper to add character in your home, lean towards smaller patterns to add depth without being too dominant. The downstairs cloakroom is a great space to experiment with wallpaper if you are looking for a fun way to inject individuality.

Further information

Contact Charlotte Hodges-Peck or Isaac Burner