As an interior designer, I have had my fair share of working with builder-grade homes. While they may provide a blank canvas for creativity, there is no denying that they often lack the character and individuality that truly make a house feel like a home.
I vividly remember walking into one such home early on in my career. The walls were all painted the same neutral beige color, the kitchen cabinets were basic and uninspired, and every room felt cookie-cutter and lacking personality. As I toured the home with my client, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of disappointment and frustration.
But instead of shying away from this project, I saw it as an opportunity to truly showcase the power of interior design. With some creativity we were able to transform that builder-grade home into a sophisticated and personalized space that truly reflected my client’s style and personality.
It is true, builder-grade homes are often seen as cookie-cutter, standardized houses that lack personality and character. While they may provide a roof over your head, they can also feel bland and uninviting. However, with a little creativity and some personalized touches, builder-grade homes can be transformed into unique and beautiful spaces.
So if you’re currently living in a builder-grade home or looking to purchase one, fear not! There are plenty of small projects that can add sophistication and personality without breaking the bank. In fact, here are 5 ideas to get you started.
Dramatize with Wall or Ceiling Details
One of the easiest ways to personalize builder-grade homes is by adding custom trim. This can include crown molding, baseboards, and other decorative trim pieces that can be installed on walls, ceilings, and even cabinets. Not only does this add visual interest to a room, but it also adds dimension and character to an otherwise plain space.
When choosing your trim, consider the style of your home as well as your personal taste. For a more traditional look, opt for intricate and ornate trims. If you prefer a more modern aesthetic, go for clean lines and simple designs. And don’t be afraid to mix and match different types of trim to create a unique look.
Embellish with Elegant New Lighting
I can always spot cheap light fixtures the minute I walk into a home. For a truly personalized and elegant touch, consider replacing all light fixtures in builder-grade homes with elegant lighting (not purchased from a big box store). This includes the generic hallway flush mounts that are often found in these homes. By adding wall sconces in your hallway, you can create a sense of drama and sophistication throughout your space. Consider large pendants or chandeliers in the dining room, pendants over the kitchen island, and personalized ceiling mount fixtures in each bedroom.
When it comes to matching fixtures, there are no set rules. You can choose to have all fixtures match for a cohesive look, or mix and match different styles for a more eclectic feel. The key is to choose fixtures that complement each other and fit within the overall aesthetic of your home. So don’t be afraid to get creative with your lighting choices!
Sophisticate with Roller Shades and Drapery
When it comes to window treatments, upgrading from basic ready-made blinds to custom roller shades or drapes can make a world of difference in personalizing your builder-grade home. Roller shades offer a sleek and modern look, while roman shades add a touch of elegance. And don’t forget about the impact that floor-to-ceiling drapery can bring – not only do they add personality to a space, but they also allow for more natural light to flow in. So consider these options when updating your windows!
Enhance with a Custom Home Exterior
Don’t forget about the exterior when it comes to personalizing your home! Your garage door and front entrance can make a big impact on the overall look of your home. Consider replacing your builder-grade garage door with a custom design that adds character and charm. You may also want to update your front door with a new color or design, as well as adding in updated steps or lighting for an enhanced curb appeal. These small changes can truly transform the exterior of your home and make it stand out in the neighborhood. So don’t neglect the outside when making personalized touches to your builder-grade home!
Beautify with a Backyard Makeover
Don’t forget about the potential of your backyard when personalizing your builder-grade home! Instead of settling for a small deck or poured patio, consider investing in a custom landscape design that fits your love for outdoor living. This could include a multi-story deck with different seating areas, a stamped concrete patio with built-in fire pit or grill, or even adding in a water feature such as a pond or fountain. Let your imagination run wild and create an outdoor oasis that reflects your personal style and enhances your daily life. By investing in professional landscaping, it will feel as if you are extending the square footage of your home, because you will want to spend so much time in the backyard. So don’t limit yourself to just the interior of your home – make sure to extend the personalized touches to your backyard as well!
Conclusion
Don’t be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to upgrading your builder-grade home. Consider replacing windows with glass doors for a more modern and open feel, or adding a custom island in your kitchen for added functionality and style. And remember, we are here to help brainstorm and implement these ideas to make your builder-grade home truly feel like your own.
If you’re thrilled to own a home, but less enthused with the lack of personality in it, please reach out. We can’t wait to create YOUR custom space!
Until next time,
