How to Instantly Elevate a New Build
There’s something wonderfully fresh about moving into a new build - but it can also feel… a little flat. Clean lines and blank walls offer a fresh start, but without the right touches, a new build can lack the soul and warmth that make a house feel like a home.
Trust me, I know. I have lived in one for three years, and the first thing I did was buy dozens Dulux tubs, and paint the walls, and then wondering why it still all felt lifeless and boxy. Luckily, I figured out some great ways to elevate my space.
If you’re craving more personality in your space, here are some easy ways to add depth, interest, and character, without starting from scratch.
1. Add Vintage Elements for Texture and Story
One of the quickest ways to break up the “everything-is-new” feeling is to add something with age. Think: a timeworn wooden side table, an antique mirror, or a weathered ceramic jug. These pieces ground a room and bring a sense of history and lived-in charm. You don’t need a full overhaul, just one or two well-chosen vintage items can instantly shift the mood from showroom to story-filled.
2. Embrace Florals—They Do More Than You Think
Faux or fresh, florals breathe life into a space. A hand-assembled arrangement in a beautiful vintage vase offers colour, movement, and a focal point without overwhelming the room. It’s a simple way to soften hard lines and bring a seasonal, natural element to even the most minimal of interiors.
(And yes - we happen to know just where to find the perfect ones!)
3. Mix Materials for Dimension
New builds often come with uniform finishes - smooth walls, shiny tiles, clean floors. Add visual texture by layering in different materials: linen, wood, ceramic, metal. Try a raw wood stool, a woven lampshade, or a soft, fringed throw. These contrasting elements stop the space from feeling one-note and add comfort without clutter.
4. Avoid the 'Catalogue Look'
It’s tempting to furnish a whole home from one or two big-name retailers, but this often leads to that “I’ve seen this before” feeling. Mix in secondhand finds, handmade items, and personal touches - like art, photos, or heirlooms. This is where your style really starts to shine.
5. Curate, Don’t Decorate
Think like a collector, not a decorator. Choose pieces that speak to you, not just ones that fill a gap. A vintage print, a ceramic vase with a story, or a hand-painted artwork instantly makes a room feel curated, not staged. Let your home grow with you. Not to mention - it's way more sustainable to shop this way!
In Summary
Elevating a new build is less about overhauling and more about layering: texture, story, contrast, and heart. Vintage finds and thoughtful florals are your secret weapons—they make any space feel lived-in, unique, and completely yours.