10 Affordable Ways to Add Charm to a Builder-Grade Home
Charm is one of the things that most builder-grade homes are missing these days. It is the one thing that truly separates one home from the next. However, you can add charm to your home in so many ways. Today I am sharing ten affordable ways to add charm to your home!
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10 Affordable Ways to Add Charm to a Builder-Grade Home
You know that house you walk into and instantly feel like you don’t want to leave? I want everyone who walks through my front door to experience that. I have been on a mission to add charm to my home and thought some things I have implemented would help you too!
1: Wall Treatments
Here are five different wall treatments that you will LOVE!
Wall Treatment: Picture Frame Molding
Adding picture frame molding gives your home a traditional feel. Add it around your home to bring a luxury feeling.
Wall Treatment: Board and Batten
Board and batten is a classic way to add charm to your home. It is perfect for long hallways or even entryways!
Wall Treatment: Shiplap
Shiplap might have a rustic or farmhouse reputation, but it is still a beautiful option for your home. You can hang shiplap vertically to give it a more modern look!
Wall Treatment: Brick
These faux brick panels can be the perfect project to give your home some charm! Nothing says charm like some brick with a German schmear finish!
Wall Treatment: Wallpaper
Wallpaper is coming back in style, and I am here for it! There are a few different application options that are on the market, as well as options for designs. The possibility is endless with wallpaper.
2: Updated Lighting
Switching out light fixtures or adding in new ones is an inexpensive way to change your home’s feel completely. Let’s face it; the builder-grade lights are usually boring and lack style.
Layered Lighting: Wall Sconces
Wall sconces are gorgeous and can be used in different applications. You can use 2 on either side of a mirror in a bathroom or add them in hallways or bedrooms to add even more charm.
Pendant Lighting
There are so many beautiful options for pendant lighting these days. You truly cannot go wrong!
Lamps
I love adding lamps anywhere I can because it gives your home a cozy feeling. Layered lighting is a key element in designer homes.
3: Window Treatments
Roman Shades or Woven Shades
Roman shades give your privacy without sacrificing style.
Curtains or Drapes
I love to add curtains to every window because it gives them such a statement and dresses them up.
Cafe Curtains
Some may say these are outdated, but I think they can be absolutely beautiful when done correctly in the right space. A kitchen window, built-in breakfast nook, or bathroom are perfect!
4: Ceiling Medallions
This may be controversial, but I think ceiling medallions are stunning. You could add them to any light fixture, but I recommend adding them to a statement fixture, such as a dining room or living room. This way, it makes a bigger impact.
5: Switch up the Doors
Switching up the doors in your home can add a big bang for your buck!
Paint a Contrasting Color
Painting your doors is a way to add a pop of color and break up the monotony of all-white doors and trim.
Replace with reclaimed doors
If you can get your hands on a reclaimed door, this would be the perfect way to add charm to a pantry or laundry room space.
6: Built Ins
Houses that are filled with charm usually have built-ins throughout. Anywhere you can create small nooks and spaces is a great way to add charm to your home.
Breakfast Nook
Adding a banquet seating area to a breakfast space is becoming increasingly popular!
Reading Nook
A reading nook in front of windows is another great way to add charm to your home!
Bookshelves
You can add these anywhere! Small hallway voids, bedrooms, and office spaces are all great rooms to add built-in bookshelves.
7: Add Larger Trim
Most builder-grade homes come with the typical trim around the house, but it is not as grand as an older home would be. Switching out your trim or adding more trim is a cost-effective way to make an impact.
Crown Molding
Large crown molding is something that many older homes have and adds so much charm to a space. Add it everywhere if you can!
Door and Window Trim
Most builder-grade homes have basic door and window trim, but adding more to your home definitely makes each door and window feel like a statement.
Baseboards
The taller the baseboard, the closer to heaven, right?
8: Update Mirrors
Swithcing out builder grade mirrors truly makes such a difference in your home! You can find affordable yet beautiful mirrors at Lowe’s, HOme depot, Target, Wayfair, and I love the selection Kirklands offers! for under $125 per mirror you can change the entire feel of a space.
9: Add a Fireplace
A fireplace adds instant coziness. With a few power tools (or a contractor!), you can create a beautiful space in your home.
10: Don’t Forget the Ceiling
The ceiling, AKA: the fifth wall, is a spot that is often overlooked.
Adding wallpaper, paneling, or painting your ceiling is another perfect way to add charm to your home.
I added a beadboard panel to the ceiling in my powder room, which completely transformed the space!
10 Affordable Ways to Add Charm to a Builder-Grade Home
I hope you enjoyed this post and found inspiration on how to add charm to your home. A beautiful home takes time and it is perfectly normal if it takes a few years to make your home really feel special.
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