15 May Creative Ways to Add Character to Builder-Grade Homes

Builder-grade homes offer plenty of advantages; they are typically affordable, so ideal for first-time buyers. These homes usually embrace the latest in modern trends, and, since they are newly constructed,  you avoid the initial maintenance and repairs you may find with an older home.

Another upside to a new, builder-grade home is that you begin with a blank slate. You make your aesthetic mark on your home from the beginning. However, many Quad Cities homeowners consider these “cookie-cutter” homes boring and lacking in character. You don’t need to give up affordability and any other advantages to buying this type of home. We’ve got you.

Change the Character of Builder-Grade Homes with These Creative Ideas

With strategic upgrades and some creativity, you can turn your builder-grade home into a curated and customized version without blowing up your budget. Here are some creative ways we’ve found to add character to builder-grade homes.

Change the Hardware

While this may sound like a tedious task, you’ll get plenty of character when you swap out things like the generic oil-rubbed bronze or brass drawer pulls, cabinet knobs, for something a little more upscale. Consider matte black, unlacquered brass, aged iron, or ceramic knobs and pulls. For a minor investment, you can change the entire aesthetic of your new kitchen and add character and charm.

Changing additional hardware like door knobs and hinges, towel bars, and outlet covers makes a big difference as well. These seem like small changes, but you’re conveying the notion that someone intentionally made these selections, not just the builder’s crew.

Add Character to Builder-Grade Homes with Architectural Trim

Older homes tend to have more character simply because of the little things builders skip. Adding architectural trim work gives your home that part that’s missing; it’s soul. Wainscoting, board-and-batten in a hallway or breakfast nook, coffered ceilings, back bands around your window casings, and even a simple two-piece crown molding provide a finished look that plain drywall can’t offer. 

Go Bold

The greige wall colors of builder-grade homes are there because it’s “safe”. When Quad Cities home buyers look at new homes, they want to imagine themselves established in the home, and that’s a big reason so many of these homes lack personality. You determine your home’s personality through your own aesthetic. 

One of the fastest ways to break the boredom of these bland walls is to commit to color. Opt for a deeply hued or jewel-toned accent wall. Paint your ceiling navy or forest green for a room-changing appeal. Interior design experts often drench a powder room in color to make an intentional statement. Go bold and banish the builder-grade. After all, it’s just paint!

Don’t Ignore Light Fixtures

Builder-grade homes often have light fixtures that are equally as bland. Basic flush-mount fixtures, generic dining room fixtures that belong in a hotel lobby, or generic pendants over a breakfast island are all part of the lighting fixture repertoire of builder-grade homes. 

Swap the dull for dynamic when you replace your plain pendants with something like a sculpted version. Think vintage chandeliers for the dining room, or wall sconces in the powder room. Even one of these easy-to-change lighting fixture swaps can alter the entire personality of your home.

Add Your Own “Built-Ins”

You can find many ways to “hack” basic shelving and architectural additions to mimic the look of built-ins. Consider floating shelves, or floor-to-ceiling shelving that flanks a fireplace in the family room. Create a window seat using pre-built kitchen cabinet bases, or add a mudroom bench with a board and batten surround and place hooks for jackets, tote bags, etc, above. 

We Can Help You Create A Home With Character

It’s really not too difficult to add character to builder-grade homes. Be intentional about your choices and consider your decisions. The secret to making your new house a home that reflects you is found in the details. Small and thoughtful transformations are key. And they won’t break your budget!

For more on how you can add character and charm to builder-grade homes, please contact Seiffert Home Design today. 

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