Moving into a newly purchased home might seem ideal with its fresh paint, clean carpets, and empty walls waiting for your furniture and accessories. However, it can be challenging to make a new home feel warm and inviting. Here are five steps to help you overcome the starkness of a new home.

 

 

Start with Small Upgrades

Little things can make a big difference in a new home, like new faucets, light fixtures, and doorknobs. These elements often tend to be dated in many homes because they weren’t chosen well to begin with. Consider updating these to enhance the overall feel of your home.

Small upgrades are often overlooked but can significantly impact the ambiance of your home. For instance, replacing old light fixtures with modern, stylish ones can change the entire mood of a room.

Opt for fixtures that complement your overall design theme, whether it’s contemporary, rustic, or vintage. Similarly, updating faucets and doorknobs to more elegant or unique designs can add a touch of sophistication and personality. These changes are relatively inexpensive and easy to implement but can make your home feel more customized and less generic.

 

Here are some of my favorites. Also, my Holistic Home Virtual Design Packages are a great for helping with these decisions (doors are reopening soon!)

Light fixtures

Solar tubes

Faucets

Doorknobs

Cabinet pulls

Custom fitted vanity mirrors

Invest in Bigger Improvements Wisely

When considering larger upgrades, think about the value of your home and whether it can realize the investment of upgrading. Kitchen and bath remodels, crown molding, hardwood floors, and energy-efficient windows are excellent investments. Always consult with a realtor to ensure these improvements align with your home’s market value.

Bigger improvements require careful planning and consideration. Kitchen and bathroom remodels are known to provide a high return on investment, but it’s essential to balance your personal preferences with what will add value to your home. Crown molding and hardwood floors can add a touch of elegance and timeless beauty.

Energy-efficient windows not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also improve insulation, reducing energy costs. Before embarking on these projects, consult with a realtor to understand how these upgrades will impact your home’s market value and ensure you’re making wise financial decisions.

Don’t Toss the Furniture Just Yet

Resist the temptation to discard old furniture or accessories immediately. Reupholstering or refinishing old items can add character and warmth to your new home. Wait until everything is unpacked and placed before deciding what to keep or discard.

Old furniture and accessories often hold sentimental value and can be repurposed to fit your new home’s aesthetic. Reupholstering an old chair with a fabric that matches your new decor can give it a fresh look while retaining its charm. Refinishing wooden furniture can breathe new life into pieces that might otherwise seem outdated. This approach not only saves money but also adds a unique, personal touch to your home.

Take your time to see how each piece fits into your new space before making any decisions about discarding them.

Add Personal Touches

Incorporate items that reflect your personality and style. Family photos, artwork, and unique decor pieces can make your home feel more lived-in and welcoming. Don’t be afraid to mix and match styles to create a space that feels uniquely yours.

Personal touches are what truly make a house feel like a home. Displaying family photos and cherished artwork can instantly make your space feel more familiar and comforting. Consider creating a gallery wall with a mix of frames and art styles to add visual interest.

Unique decor pieces, such as souvenirs from travels or handmade items, can tell a story and add character to your home. Mixing and matching different styles can create a layered, eclectic look that reflects your personality and makes your home feel uniquely yours.

Embrace the Evolution

Remember, a home is a work in progress. Styles change, and your needs will evolve over time. Allow your home to grow with you, making improvements and adjustments as you go.

A home is never truly finished; it’s an evolving space that changes with your lifestyle and preferences. Embrace this evolution by being open to making adjustments and improvements over time. As your needs change, so should your home. This might mean rearranging furniture, updating decor, or even undertaking new renovation projects.

By viewing your home as a dynamic, ever-changing space, you can create an environment that continuously supports and reflects your life.