Moving into a new home soon? While the process might feel daunting and a little bit stressful, turning a blank canvas into a home that’s uniquely yours can be the most special part. Taking the time to focus on personalisation and comfort means you’ll make lasting memories with your loved ones.
If you’re ready to transform your property into somewhere effortlessly warm, welcoming and familiar, see our top tips for turning a house into a home.
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Make it Personal
When you’re decorating or adding furnishings to your home, don’t just blindly follow trends and hope for the best. Staying true to your own tastes and preferences will ensure that the result is something you’re happy with.
Coming home to your favourite things will help you to relax, unwind, and get creative. From statement pieces of avant-garde artwork to standout colours on feature walls, there are so many ways to transform a blank canvas.
On modern developments, new build homes come with clean, neutral finishes that provide an ideal opportunity to infuse your own style into every room. Whether you prefer fiery hot pink or gentle duck egg, colour schemes make a big impact.
Prioritise Comfort and Warmth
It’s no secret that new build homes can sometimes feel a little bit harsh and uninviting. Luckily, simple, soft additions like colourful rugs, cushions and throws can turn any room into a comforting retreat.
Lighting makes a big impact too: try to add warm, layered lighting in every room, insuring a mix of ambient and task lighting. Feature lamps help to make a statement, especially when paired in threes.
If the kitchen in your new build feels too white and empty, getting started with a DIY project could add instant character. Looking for somewhere to keep your spice mixes, seasonings or dry cooking ingredients? Displaying them on rustic scaffold board shelving could help to transform the space.
Keep it Practical
Your new home still needs to be somewhere that facilitates a smooth and hassle-free routine. Even though most new builds come with all the fittings and furnishings needed, there are several ways to make it better suited to you and your family.
For example, many first-time buyers choose to add more electrical sockets in the bedrooms and living areas. In the bathroom, colourful tiles around the sinks and shower make a playful addition.
Incorporate Nature Indoors
Bringing the outdoors inside can instantly add warmth and freshness to any home. Adding houseplants, floral arrangements, or even botanical artwork can brighten a room and create a calming atmosphere. Low-maintenance plants like succulents or peace lilies can add greenery with minimal care. You can also experiment with natural materials like wood, stone, or wicker for furniture and décor, which will create a connection with nature and enhance the organic feel of your home.
Personality, comfort and practical are the cornerstones of any happy household. By taking these steps after moving into your new build, you’ll soon transform the space and realise your visions of a dream home.
Display Personal Memories and Sentimental Items
Displaying personal photographs, souvenirs from past travels, or family heirlooms can make your home feel more intimate and reflective of your unique experiences. Whether you choose a dedicated gallery wall or scattered photo frames around the house, seeing images of cherished moments will remind you of happy times and people you love. Don’t hesitate to showcase items that hold special meaning, from vintage trinkets to handmade crafts, as these contribute to the sense of familiarity and nostalgia.
Focus on Scent and Sound
Creating a comforting atmosphere goes beyond what you see—scent and sound play vital roles in making a house feel like home. Invest in scented candles, essential oil diffusers, or incense to create a pleasant aroma in your space. Choose fragrances that evoke a sense of relaxation or joy, like lavender, vanilla, or citrus. Additionally, consider using sound to your advantage by playing soft music, or installing a small indoor water fountain to create a peaceful, tranquil background that enhances the overall ambiance.
Settling in
Moving into a new build is an exciting milestone, but take the time to make the space truly your own. While the clean, blank canvas of a new home offers endless possibilities for personalisation, it’s important to approach any major upgrades carefully. If you’re considering structural changes—such as adding a conservatory, converting a garage, or installing new windows—it’s always worth checking if you need planning permission. This ensures your plans go smoothly and avoids potential issues down the line.
However, transforming a house into a home doesn’t always mean big renovations. As we’ve explored, it’s the thoughtful touches of personality, comfort, and practicality that truly make a difference. From soft furnishings and warm lighting to displaying personal memories, these small changes bring warmth and familiarity to your home.
Bringing in natural elements, like plants and wood textures, can instantly soften the space, while adding favourite photographs or mementoes creates an intimate, personal feel. Even scent and sound, like candles and soothing music, play a part in creating a comforting atmosphere.
By focusing on these simple additions, your new build will soon feel like home – a space that reflects your style, supports your routines, and makes lasting memories.
