The issue with new-builds, it seems, is character, or a lack-of, with over half citing a desire for original features as the reason for the new-home non tolerance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But are we writing off just-builds just a little too soon? <\/p>
There\u2019s no doubt homes that have recently been constructed come with a whole host of benefits \u2013 modern conveniences and energy efficiency<\/a> to name a few. <\/p>\n\n\n\n So, if we could just inject some of that coveted charm, we might well fall back in love with box-fresh homes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n “New build properties may offer modern convenience, but they often lack the soul and character that comes with the charm of older homes,\u201d explains Sarah Bratt, interior designer at My Bespoke Room<\/a>, which specialises in personalising new-builds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sarah says injecting character into a new build is often a delicate balancing act. \u201cYou want to add period charm and personality whilst still needing it to feel authentic to the space,\u201d she explains.<\/p> But there are some ways to create character in a newer home that is more bland than beautiful. <\/p>\n\n\n\n From statement splashbacks to door drenching and playing with patina here\u2019s our expert-backed tips for giving a perfectly nice property a bit of personality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While often seen as a quick fix for \u201ccharacter,\u201d Sarah warns put-on panelling can look jarring in a modern new build. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cInstead, opt for contemporary alternatives like shaker style or even slatted wood and acoustic panels, which not only add visual interest but also help with sound absorption,\u201d she suggests.<\/p> Rather than sticking with standard blinds, Sarah suggests opting for floor-to-ceiling curtains, patterned Roman blinds, or shutters. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThey instantly make a room feel more finished and add softness and character,\u201d she explains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Swapping out some cabinets for open or floating shelves creates space to show off your personality. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThink beautiful glassware, statement mugs, trailing plants, or even your favourite cookbooks,\u201d Sarah suggests.<\/p> Sarah advises considering adding in a statement splashback to the kitchen. \u201cTimeless options like subway tiles or fluted finishes work really well in modern homes,\u201d she says. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cYou can go bold with colour or keep it neutral and let the texture do the talking.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n While we\u2019re talking statements, you could consider being brave with one wall too. \u201cStatement walls are always a great option for adding character and personality,\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n Sarah continues. \u201cAnd when it comes to new builds, the bolder the better! Think stunning wall murals and wallpaper, or a rich, moody colour.\u201d<\/p> Creating a brick or stone feature wall is another great way to add a little charm to a new build. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThey instantly add texture, warmth and a sense of history,\u201d Sarah adds. \u201cA great option for this is using brick slips for that authentic look of an exposed wall.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n While this may seem a somewhat controversial idea, if you’re into a more modern look, Sarah suggests exposing some pipework in kitchens or bathrooms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cIt can bring in a cool, urban edge that contrasts really nicely with clean modern lines,\u201d she adds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Adding character isn’t always about the architectural features, you can create the same sense of history and classic charm by introducing older or vintage d\u00e9cor. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cBlending modern furniture with vintage or antique finds helps tell a story,\u201d Sarah suggests. \u201cA vintage armchair, old dresser, or even a second hand mirror can give your space a more layered, collected feel.\u201d \u201cCombining styles like mid-century modern furniture with bohemian textiles or Scandinavian minimalism with industrial accents, really helps to personalise your new build and make it feel more you<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Finishing touches will help make your new build home feel more personalised and full of character. \u201cHanging artwork, for example, whether it’s local art, photography, or prints you love,\u201d explains Sarah. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cIt makes the space feel more personal and less like a show home.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lighting is also another quick change that has a big impact. \u201cUse a mix of lighting – floor lamps, table lamps, wall lights\u2014to make the space feel warm and inviting,\u201d she continues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cAnd don\u2019t be afraid to choose lighting with a bit of personality such as vintage chandeliers, industrial pendant lights, or artistic lamps.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Finally, add a little life with plants. \u201cBig or small, plants instantly lift a space,\u201d Sarah says. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThey bring in colour, movement, and even a bit of structure.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another way to add character is to swap out standard features such as radiators, door handles and light switches for more stylish ones. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cEnhancing these details can make up for a lack of architectural features such as cornices and ceiling roses,\u201d explains Ryan McDonough at MyJobQuote.co.uk<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n An overlooked feature which can completely transform your new build are the internal doors. \u201cIt’s safe to say standard new build doors can be a bit uninspiring,\u201d explains Sarah. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cTry painting them the same colour as your walls for a colour drenched effect<\/a> or swapping them out for something more interesting, like French doors or ones with glass panels to let the light through.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n It’s a well-known fact that new build homes can be lacking in storage, but this offers a great opportunity to infuse more character. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cBuilt-in shelves or bespoke cabinetry can mimic the character you often find in period properties whilst solving your storage problems,\u201d Sarah says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Don\u2019t forget your outside space. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cAdding a bench, some potted plants, or even a winding stone path can help your exterior feel more inviting and make a great first impression,” Sarah suggests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The key to adding character to a new-build, according to Ayisha Onuorah, interior designer and founder of Ayisha Onuorah Design, is to layer in materials that age beautifully – think warm woods, natural stone, cement tiles, and anything that wears in rather than wears out. \u201cThese are the kinds of details that create soul over time, so the space starts to tell its own story – one that actually feels lived in, not staged.\u201d \u201cYou don\u2019t need a Victorian fireplace to create soul; you can incorporate unlacquered brass, weathered woods, vintage textiles, even a well-loved leather chair. <\/p>\n\n\n\n “It\u2019s about contrast; that softness and imperfection adds instant depth to all those crisp, clean lines.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Skip the faux beams and mass-produced \u2018period\u2019 details that try hard to mimic history. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Instead, Ayisha recommends bringing in pieces that feel collected over time such as a sculptural light fixture that makes a statement, art that clashes slightly with the sofa in the best way, or curtains hung dramatically high to mess with the scale a little.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cIt\u2019s about creating a space that suggests a story rather than forcing one,\u201d she says. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cSo, the goal isn\u2019t to fake age – it\u2019s to build personality, piece by piece, in a way that feels natural and effortless.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Character often comes from playing with proportion such as bringing in pieces that feel deliberately oversized or unexpectedly bold for the space. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThink a huge pendant light in a modest hallway, an exaggerated stone sink in a pared-back bathroom, or an oversized artwork leaning casually against a wall,\u201d Ayisha explains. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cIt creates visual tension, which makes the space feel curated rather than cookie-cutter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n “That slight sense of \u2018off-ness\u2019 – when done with intention – brings charm, confidence, and a bit of drama.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n When you first get the keys to your new build home, you\u2019ll usually find the d\u00e9cor is quite neutral with lots of whites and greys. <\/p>\n\n\n\n So, adding colour is one straightforward way to inject character. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Ryan suggests using yellows, oranges and earthy tones to add warmth and make a space feel more homely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Freshly plastered walls can feel a little flat compared to walls in older properties that have exposed stone, traditional panelling or picture rails. <\/p>\n\n\n\n But there are plenty of ways to add features to your walls without mocking period character.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cColour-blocking techniques and modern slatted panels can be used to break up plain walls, adding texture and personality,\u201d Ryan suggests. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWallpaper can also be used to add colour, pattern and texture. <\/p>\n\n\n\n “You could go with bold patterning to add individuality and make the space feel less bland or choose a woven or embossed wallpaper to create a more tactile, organic finish to walls.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s unlikely you\u2019ll have a fireplace in a new build, so you need to think about creating an alternative focal point. \u201cThis could be a sculptural light fitting or bespoke furniture,\u201d suggests Ryan. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cBuilt-in media and storage units<\/a> can not only add interest but are incredibly practical for modern living spaces.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n 2025 trends celebrate craftsmanship, with handmade items becoming a focal point of interior spaces. \u201cHandmade items are becoming a focal point for interiors this year,\u201d explains Molly Woodward-Moor, interior designer and creative director at Stone Superstore<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThey emphasise deliberately imperfect details, hand-painted patterns, and glazed finishes that embody a unique, one-of-a-kind quality. <\/p>\n\n\n\n “Artisanal tiles and d\u00e9cor bring character and individuality to interiors, particularly those that are lacking in personality.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tiling can be a fantastic way to inject character into a home and we often see a lot of new builds lack tiling in both the kitchen and bathrooms, typically having just a splashback behind a sink.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cTiles with bold, intricate patterns<\/a> can be a great way to create a statement in a space and this year, we\u2019re seeing tile trends that are the perfect way to add character to a space,\u201d Molly adds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201c<\/strong>As we\u2019ve already started to see this season, checkerboard tile patterns are making a huge comeback, offering a nostalgic nod to classic interiors with a fresh twist,\u201d she continues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWhether used in classic monochrome or modern colour combinations, checkerboard designs bring a sense of structure and drama to kitchens, bathrooms, and entranceways. <\/p>\n\n\n\n “Opt for matt finishes to keep the design grounded and modern, or use glazed or polished surfaces for more of a traditional, maximalist look.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Molly says terracotta-inspired tiles will also bring warmth, texture and an authentic natural touch to new-build interiors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cFrom deep rust tones to soft, sandy hues, these tiles form a connection to nature within your home, creating a grounding and relaxing undertone to your decor scheme,\u201d she explains. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cPerfect for kitchens, garden rooms, or feature walls, their organic appeal feels timeless yet modern.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Think deliberately imperfect details, hand-painted patterns, and glazed finishes that embody a unique, one-of-a-kind quality. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cArtisanal details bring character and individuality to interiors, perfect for feature walls, vintage-style bathrooms, or classic kitchen backsplashes,\u201d Molly says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n She suggests pairing handmade tiles with modern furniture to create a juxtaposition of styles, allowing their detail and character to shine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cOr lean into the rustic feel with traditional design elements such as shaker cabinetry and antique furniture finds,\u201d she adds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Natural materials such as wood and stone have a timeless feel and can instantly add character to any space. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThese types of materials are timeless and never go out of style, making them a perfect \u2018neutral\u2019 foundation for a new-build home,\u201d says Molly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Molly says the versatility and timelessness of natural materials allow you to build upon them, and adapt to evolving trends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cFor example, if you enjoy experimenting with new trends or frequently like to update your space, a wooden floor provides a neutral yet warm base that effortlessly complements any style,\u201d she adds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In new build designs, fireplaces are often overlooked, however, the desire for timeless styles and authentic materials is on the rise. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Videos using the hashtag \u2018stone fireplace\u2019 have reached over 9 million views on TikTok, with a new generation discovering the cosy comfort that the design can bring to a space. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cPeople are looking for an updated approach to give their fireplace a timeless elegance, whether it\u2019s tiling an alcove that sits a log burner or a traditional open-hearth fireplace,\u201d Molly explains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cLarge-format stone tiles or slabs that create a feature around the fireplace work well in modern spaces,\u201d she continues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThese larger tiles reduce the visual clutter and create a more seamless, elegant look that feels chic and understated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n “Limestone, slate, and porcelain tiles are top picks for fireplaces, offering versatility in design, whilst being durable and easy to clean.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n Looking for more interiors inspiration? Take a look at From runway to room: 7 chic interior design trends inspired by the catwalk<\/a> or Wabi Sabi interiors: 11 ways to get the calming look in your home<\/a><\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n READ MORE:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Shaker](\"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Untitled-design-2025-03-28T110922.526.jpg\")
Think twice about panelling<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Wooden](\"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Untitled-design-2025-03-28T111000.837.jpg\")
Consider window dressings<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"sustainable](\"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/curtain-blinds-trends-hemp-curtains-hillarys.jpg\")
Rethink upper kitchen cabinets<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"scaffoldshelves](\"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/scaffoldshelves.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nIntroduce a statement splashback<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"bedroom](\"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/bedroom_with_exposed_stone_wall.jpg\")
Pimp your pipework <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Add finesse with furniture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
And the mixing of pieces doesn’t stop with old and new. <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"new-build](\"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/new-build-kitchen-3.jpg\")
Don\u2019t forget about finishing touches<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"wall](\"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/gallery-pic.jpg\")
Switch up standard features<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"colourful](\"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/colourful-radiator.jpg\")
Drench your doors<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Sort your storage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Create charm outside<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Image](\"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Untitled-design-60.jpg\")
Play with patina<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\u201cAdd pieces with patina, unexpected colour pairings, even clashing patterns that feel collected rather than curated,\u201d Ayisha continues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cI always tell clients: \u2018bring in the patina\u2019,\u201d she continues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"deVOL](\"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/deVOL-AgedBrassOvalToggleSwitch-1Gang-LowRes.jpg\")
Layer with intention, not imitation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"h&m](\"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/hm-home-bamboo-light-floor-lamp-sofa-living-room.jpg\")
Play with proportion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Inject some colour<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Raw-bedroom-sized.jpg\")
Decorate new plaster with pattern and paint<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Colour](\"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Crown.jpg\")
Find a focal point<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Focus on craftmanship<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Media](\"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/media-wall.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nMake use of tiling<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"terracotta](\"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/terracotta-kitchen-tiles.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nEmbrace artisanal details <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Incorporate natural materials<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Interior](\"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Interior-of-contemporary-bathroom-with-mid-grey-walls-teal-geometric-floor-tiles-and-oval-bath.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nConsider installing a fireplace<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Image](\"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Direct-stoves-700x525.jpg\")
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