Decorating tips for new build homes

1. Set a realistic budget

New build décor ideas can range from maximalist to minimalist, depending on your aesthetic. To make sure you get the most out of decorating your new home, you should set a realistic budget. This means that you can make the most out of decorating your new build.

Take everything into account

To prevent a half-empty home and a stretched budget, make sure to take everything into account. While larger purchases like sofas, tables and other fittings may take up the bulk of your budget, don’t forget about soft furnishings and other items like paint. Create a checklist of everything you will need to buy before you start, so you can budget accordingly.

Decorate room by room

Prioritising the spaces you use most can help you stick to a budget. Start with the most used room and finish with the least important space in the house, such as a downstairs toilet or a guest bedroom. This gives you time to slowly curate each space to your set budget.

2. Plan your style and colour palette

To avoid clashes of colour and style when decorating a new build, we recommend planning ahead. This can be as simple as creating a vision board or deciding on a colour palette for each room.

Create a vision board with your style inspirations

Vision boards are helpful for inspiration and direction, giving you a clear picture of what you’re aiming to recreate. Using an app like Pinterest, select images of home decor styles you’d like to replicate and add them to your vision board.

Choose a colour palette for each room

Colour can have a big impact. When deciding your colour palette for each room, consider the effects of different tones. Soft blues and greens create a calm space, perfect for bedrooms, while brighter colours add interest in living rooms and kitchens. You may even want to have a consistent colour palette throughout your home, with different tones of the same colour across each room.

3. Choose furniture and décor

Choose furniture and décor that suits your space and reflects your chosen style. Consider comfort and the visual flow of each room when arranging the furniture. To save money, it’s a great idea to rearrange your existing furniture for a fresh look.

Consider function and comfort

To help make a new house feel like home, add personal touches throughout the space. This can include family photographs, sentimental souvenirs or meaningful artwork, making your new place uniquely yours.

Use multipurpose furniture to save space

Be strategic with your space by choosing multi-purpose furniture like a storage ottoman or a sofa bed.

For more ideas, read our 10 tips to maximise space in a small bedroom.

4. Maximise light, space and flow

New build décor ideas may include a variety of overhead and soft lighting, such as table lamps and candles. Equally, maximising the space you have can be achieved through various furniture and mirror choices.

Incorporate mirrors and vertical shelving

To open up smaller rooms, consider vertical shelving and wall-mounted options, and you may even want to incorporate mirrors to bounce light around, making each room feel more spacious.

Lighting

Lighting can transform a room by creating a welcoming atmosphere. Adjustable dimmer switches are very versatile, helping you get cosy in the evening and illuminating spaces where needed. Smaller lighting options, such as candles and fairy lights, can also help create a homely ambience.

5. Consider sustainability and budget

If you’re considering sustainability while balancing a budget, there are several ways to do so.

Choose energy-efficient lights

A great way to save money while also being sustainable is to choose energy-efficient lighting, such as LED light bulbs. These energy-saving bulbs can last longer than halogen bulbs and use 80% less electricity. Homeowners can still benefit from quality lighting while cutting costs.

Upcycle items or shop second-hand

Consider upcycling or repurposing items you already own, or investing in quality pieces that will stand the test of time, rather than opting for disposable or low-quality items. Searching for second-hand items at charity shops and flea markets can also keep your costs low while providing great pieces for your new home.

6. Plan outdoor spaces

Outdoor space is equally important when transforming a house into a home. Your new build home may have a garden, patio, or even a balcony, offering ample opportunity to experiment with your outdoor areas. You may even want to bring the outdoors in with plants.

Decorate gardens, patios or balconies

Plants and greenery can bring your outdoor space to life. If you have enough space in your garden or patio, consider weather-resistant seating or play furniture for kids. This can add character to your outdoor space and provide extra spots to relax.

Bring the outside in

To improve the flow from indoors to outdoors, consider final touches such as fresh flowers or plants. This helps bring your home to life and can improve indoor air quality. Floral-scented candles or diffusers also provide that extra homely feel while encouraging the flow from indoors to outdoors.

7. Maintain your space and plan for longevity

Moving into a new home means planning for the present and the future. Picking items that will last means saving money in the long term while keeping a home that looks fresh and new, no matter what life throws at you.

Opt for durable pieces

When making large purchases, opt for high-quality, durable items that will stand the test of time. If you have pets, it’s worth considering fabrics that will withstand some wear and tear, or easily washable covers if you have children.

Plan a cleaning schedule and seasonal decluttering sessions

To ensure your home is well-kept and fresh, create a cleaning schedule and organise seasonal decluttering sessions. This prevents dirt and dust build-up for a cleaner environment.

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