Our Top 5 Interior Design tips to personalize your Builder-grade home
Do you live in a master-planned residential community? We do, too! There are many benefits, like community amenities, green space, walking trails, and quality-controlled homes. But with any large-scale residential development, finishes like lighting, hardware, and wall treatments are often generic. As a result, the interiors can sometimes feel uninspired. Whether you moved in ten years ago or it’s brand new, your builder-grade home can be infused with character, warmth, and personality without breaking the bank or requiring a complete overhaul. Here are our Top Five design tips for personalizing your home.
1. Upgrade your Light Fixtures
One of the most impactful ways to customize your space is by swapping out builder-grade light fixtures with ones that reflect your style. We love flush mounts for lower ceilings and hallways, a statement chandelier above the dining room table or stairway, and a charming sconce over the kitchen sink.
A whimsical rattan chandelier in our Lafayette, CO project. Design: MC Design Interiors, Photo Credit: Elizabeth Gordon Photography
Brass flush mounts above the island create drama without overcrowding in this Greenwood Village condo project. Design: MC Design Interiors, Photo Credit: Elizabeth Gordon Photography
2. Personalize your Walls
Builder-grade homes typically have light, neutral paint colors that appeal to a broad audience. With no tonal variation, it can sometimes leave your space feeling sterile. Luckily, you have plenty of options when it comes to wall treatments.
Paint: Paint has the power to transform interiors quickly and cost-effectively. Recently, we have seen the trends shift away from cool grays towards moody blues, earthy greens, and rich browns and reds. These warm colors feel cozy and comfortable.
Paneling: When it comes to wall treatments, paneling is a great option to add depth and visual interest. Don't limit yourself to the ever-popular shiplap – think about incorporating wainscotting, beadboard, or fluted white oak to elevate your space.
Wallpaper: Wallpaper is a timeless trend we cannot get enough of. From florals to block prints, subtle patterns, or bold colors, there are endless options to explore. Plus, wallpaper isn't just for walls - consider using it to line the back of bookshelves or adding it to a ceiling.
An unexpected Portola Paints limewash backsplash in our Eastbridge project in Central Park. Design: MC Design Interiors, Photo Credit: Elizabeth Gordon Photography
Photo Caption: Blockprint wallpaper paired with Fireclay’s “Oyster Shell” tile backsplash in one of our Central Park builder upgrade projects. Design: MC Design Interiors, Photo Credit: Elizabeth Gordon Photography
Pro Tip:
Do you love wallpaper but have builder-grade textured walls? Don’t let that hold you back! Skim coating is your solution. A thin layer of drywall compound is applied to create a smooth finish. Now, make your wallpaper dreams come true!
3. Invest in Built-Ins
Custom carpentry is one of the more costly options on our list. Still, it offers a beautiful and creative solution to maximize the space and storage in your home. Popular asks from our builder-grade home clients include mudroom, shelving, and dry bar design. But, our favorite of all built-ins is the banquette seating area. It’s oh-so-cozy, saves space in your dining area, and provides storage for lesser-used appliances.
Photo Caption: Arched custom built-ins flank the Roman clay fireplace in our Beeler Park basement project. Design: MC Design Interiors, Photo Credit: Elizabeth Gordon Photography
A banquette seating area in the Eastbridge neighborhood, Central Park. Design: MC Design Interiors, Photo Credit: Elizabeth Gordon Photography
4. Switch Out the Hardware
Hardware is often referred to as the jewelry of interior design. It is an easy DIY change that can personalize your space. You can choose knobs or pulls that align with your aesthetic, whether it's sleek and modern, vintage and eclectic, or anything in between. For distinctive hardware finds, Etsy is a great place to look. Brass has ruled Instagram and Pinterest for the past few years, but we’ve recently seen an exciting turn toward brushed nickel.
Brass switchplates and hooks provide interest in our primary bathroom project in the Conservatory Green neighborhood of Central Park. Design: MC Design Interiors, Photo Credit: Elizabeth Gordon Photography
Unique brass hardware in the Willow Park neighborhood. Design: MC Design Interiors, Photo Credit: Elizabeth Gordon Photography
Pro Tip: Don’t limit yourself to cabinet hardware! Think about swapping out your bathroom's generic towel bar and light switch plates. Hooks or rings make hanging bathroom linens easier, and unique switchplates feel custom and unexpected.
5. Furnishings and Styling
What makes your builder-grade house feel like your home? It's the personal touches that create a sense of ownership and connection. Take a closer look at your existing furniture and decor, and identify what brings you joy and works in your new configuration and what doesn't. Then, invest in carefully chosen pieces that optimize the comfort and functionality of your home. Personalize your space with items from your travels, family heirlooms, or vintage finds that resonate with you. Doing so will help reinforce a sense of belonging and attachment, making your house truly feel like yours.
Cozy primary bedroom remodel and furnishings project in a Conservatory Green project in Central Park. Design: MC Design Interiors, Photo Credit: Elizabeth Gordon Photography
Swapping out builder-grade finishes, getting creative with wall treatments and styling with meaningful pieces will turn a generic house into a warm and inviting home. Hiring a design professional to help navigate this process can save you time, money, and DIY mishaps.
Blog post originally written for the Central Park Scoop. Check out their blog for all sorts of great Denver real estate information. There are no affiliate links associated with this post.
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