Whether you are in the process of purchasing a new build property or are updating the interior of your existing new build, furnishing it can feel like quite a daunting task. Unlike older homes that tend to have original features and their own character, new builds present homeowners with a completely blank canvas. While this may seem overwhelming at first, there are many ways to decorate and furnish a new build home and turn it from a ‘white box’ into a space that truly reflects your personality and style. To help you on this journey, we’ve listed some of our top tips to make the place feel like home in no time.

Come up with an initial plan

Before rushing into things, take the time to plan the layout of each room and its purpose. If you have yet to choose your new build property, opt for a new build with sufficient space for your family and your needs. Make sure enough storage is being built within the home for all your requirements, that the layout works for the way you live and that your home builders insurance is up to date.

You also need to think of any decorating that you might want to do before you start furnishing the place with furniture. To transform the plain white walls of a new build, add texture using panelling, wallpaper or brick slips, which all add visual interest, character and depth. Painting over the standard ‘pure brilliant white’ of new builds in bold hues, such as olive greens or mustard yellows, is another way to bring personality and individuality into the space.

Start with investment pieces

When furnishing your new build, it’s vital you start with quality basics that you’ll be using on a day-to-day basis (like your bed, a sofa or a dining table). Rather than immediately picking out pieces that you like and will fit, consider the design of each option: would your bed benefit from storage space underneath? Can you elevate the room by bringing in sumptuous fabrics via an upholstered headboard? Would the living room benefit from a sofa on legs that allows light and air to travel around it, making it feel less bulky in the space? Would a few movable side tables be more beneficial than one large coffee table? By answering these questions first, you are less likely to make a costly mistake.

Utilise natural light

New build homes are praised for their natural light. Often, they come with large windows, bi-fold doors and roof lights. This is to be embraced, so consider your window treatments that enable light to flow in and can be adjusted easily. Sheer voiles look fantastic in new build properties, as do Venetian or roller blinds.

To further enhance the light, look to place mirrors adjacent to windows to bounce the light around. While shiny gloss paint over matt will boost that sense of illumination.

Layer the space

To stop a new build from feeling empty and cold, layer up each room with soft textiles and decorative items to make the space feel homely and inviting. Lay soft rugs over the wood-effect floors, hang large pieces of art and add lots of tactile pieces for visual capacity: wooden chopping boards, vases made from clay or stone, potted plants and chairs or lighting constructed from woven natural materials warm up a new build and give it more warmth and an attractive appeal.