How to Add Character to a Home: 10 Easy & Affordable Ideas

1. Windows

Older homes often feature ornate, whimsical, or interesting windows. You can add that look to your existing windows cheaply with snap-in window mullions.

They come in all sorts of patterns and colors, they are removable, they can be customized to your window, and they give your home an antique European look, a little bit of charm, and that “wow” factor.

2. Doors

Doors are another place where old homes tend to be more detailed and original. Luckily, it’s easy to replace the doors in a new construction home to add character to the home.

Look for old antique doors for your front door, bathrooms, pantry, and any other interior or exterior door. You can find these on Etsy, Facebook Marketplace, or even a thrift shop.

3. Nooks

Nooks are another way to add character and charm. There are so many types of nooks, like breakfast nooks, reading nooks, or working nooks. Find a place, maybe under a window, to add a nook to your home. 

4. Ceilings

Want to add character to your ceiling? Use a ceiling medallion. They look great around pendant lights or chandeliers, and in general, make the ceiling more ornate, beautiful, and regal.

5. Floors

Painted wood checkered floors are timeless. The pattern looks especially good on wooden floors. Paint on floors probably won’t last too long, so use it as a temporary way to upscale your older floors that are on their last legs.

6. Mirrors

Since new-construction bathrooms can be plain, don’t forget to replace the builder-grade mirrors with more interesting mirrors that add height and function.

7. Vanity

You can also replace the standard bathroom vanity with a more interesting piece. Any piece of furniture can actually become a vanity and add style to your home. 

8. Trim

Beef up your trim to create extra height. Experiment with wall molding, crown molding, picture frame molding, and batten molding. You can DIY it with minimal tools. 

9. Curtains & drapes

Curtains and drapes are easy to install. They break up flatness and add softness, texture. and whimsy. Large curtains can make a space look bigger. Cafe curtains are great for bathrooms and laundry rooms.

10. Garage

To add curb appeal, use little magnetized garage door details. They make the exterior look more classic and elegant and snap on in only seconds. 

How to add character to a home

There are so many ways to add character to a home, even a new construction. It doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. Which suggestion was your favorite? Leave a comment and let us know.