How to Make Your Builder-Grade Home Look More Custom
A take on curating luxury from a Knoxville Interior Designer

In today’s real estate market, it can be tough to find a home that checks all of your boxes. Many buyers end up with a builder-grade home, which is functional but often lacks the character and personal touches that make a home truly special. The good news? You don’t have to settle for a cookie-cutter look. With a few thoughtful updates, you can transform your builder-grade home into a custom, one-of-a-kind space that reflects your style and personality.

Here are some simple yet impactful ways we elevate our clients’ homes, as shared by Rowan Hall Interiors founder, Alfie Rowan:

1. Update the Light Fixtures

One of the easiest ways to make your builder-grade home look more custom is by swapping out basic light fixtures for something more unique. Alfie notes that many homes built in the 1990s (and beyond) came standard with a large, gold chandelier—an outdated look that doesn’t match today’s design trends.

“If you still have that light fixture, you need to call us immediately,” jokes Alfie. Changing out those generic fixtures for more modern or luxurious lighting options can dramatically change the mood of your space. Think statement chandeliers, sleek pendants, or even vintage-inspired sconces. Lighting not only adds functionality but can also act as the “jewelry” of your home, elevating the overall aesthetic.

If you’re unsure about how to select the right lighting to complement your home’s style, working with interior designers in Knoxville, TN can make the process seamless and stress-free. Designers like Rowan Hall Interiors can guide you through selecting the perfect fixtures that enhance your space.

2. Install a Custom Backsplash

Builder-grade kitchens often feature basic backsplashes, typically white subway tile, which can feel bland and repetitive. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with a simple backsplash, it’s a prime area to add some personality and interest. According to Alfie, this is the perfect spot to splurge on something that feels special.

“A beautiful custom backsplash can serve as a stunning focal point in your kitchen,” Alfie says. Whether it’s an intricate tile pattern, a bold pop of color, or a sleek, high-end material like marble or glass, upgrading your backsplash can make your kitchen feel far more custom and sophisticated.

Interior designers Knoxville TN experts can help you select a backsplash that not only looks beautiful but also complements the overall design of your home.

3. Add Wallpaper for Instant Character

Wallpaper is a game-changer when it comes to making a space feel more custom. Alfie suggests that wallpaper can instantly transform the feel of a room, adding depth, texture, and personality in ways that paint alone cannot. Whether you choose a bold pattern for an accent wall or a subtle design for an entire room, wallpaper brings a level of sophistication and style that builder-grade homes often lack.

Wallpaper is especially effective in spaces like powder rooms, entryways, or dining rooms, where you can create a high-impact look without overwhelming the entire home. To ensure a flawless installation and a cohesive look, you can rely on our Knoxville interior designers to help you choose the right patterns and materials.

4. Incorporate Custom Draperies

“Of course, y’all know I’m going to add custom drapes to that list,” Alfie says with a smile. Custom drapery is one of those finishing touches that can make a home feel polished and intentional. Standard blinds or off-the-shelf curtains are functional, but custom drapery adds elegance, softness, and a tailored look to any room.

The right window treatments can elevate the overall design, provide better light control, and even improve the acoustics of a room. Plus, they offer an opportunity to bring in color, texture, or pattern in a way that complements your space.

If you’re looking to incorporate luxurious window treatments, Rowan Hall’s interior designers Knoxville TN can assist in selecting fabrics and styles that add a refined, custom feel to your home.

5. Upgrade the Molding

Builder-grade homes often come with minimal or basic molding and trim, which can leave a space feeling flat and unfinished. By upgrading your home’s molding, you can instantly add character and charm. Alfie suggests exploring options like crown molding, baseboards, and wainscoting to give your rooms a more custom look.

While this may not be the cheapest update, Alfie notes that it can have a significant impact on the overall feel of your home. Custom millwork and molding can make even the simplest spaces feel more architecturally interesting and luxurious.

With help from Knoxville interior designers, you can explore custom millwork options that are tailored to your home’s style and bring a sense of elegance and completion to your rooms.

6. Enhance Your Staircase

Staircases are often overlooked in builder-grade homes, but they offer a prime opportunity to make a statement. Alfie points out that updating elements like balusters and newel posts can dramatically change the look of your stairs, making them feel more custom and high-end.

If a full staircase renovation isn’t in the budget, consider adding a stair runner to bring in color, texture, and interest. A well-chosen runner can enhance the visual appeal of your staircase while also providing practical benefits like noise reduction and added traction.

7. Invest in Custom Furniture and Décor

Finally, one of the easiest ways to make your builder-grade home feel more custom is by incorporating unique, high-quality furniture and décor. Custom pieces, whether it’s a bespoke sofa or handcrafted coffee table, add a level of luxury and personalization that off-the-shelf items simply can’t match.

Don’t be afraid to mix in vintage or one-of-a-kind pieces to create a curated look. These elements will not only set your home apart but also make it feel like a true reflection of your style. We love to take pieces that are special to our clients and work them into our designs.

By working with our interior designers in Knoxville, TN, you can curate a mix of furniture and accessories that will give your home a personalized and high-end feel.

Transforming Your Builder-Grade Home

If you’ve found yourself in a builder-grade home that doesn’t quite meet your design dreams, there are plenty of ways we can add custom touches that elevate the look and feel of your space. From swapping out light fixtures to incorporating wallpaper, custom drapes, and unique furniture, we can turn your generic home into a personalized sanctuary.

At Rowan Hall Interiors, we specialize in helping homeowners transform their spaces with thoughtful design solutions. Whether you’re looking to make small updates or embark on a larger renovation, our team of interior designers Knoxville TN is here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to take your home from builder-grade to custom? Contact us today to get started!

Get the Rowan Hall party started!

To get in touch with a member of our team, fill out our contact form.

To discuss a potential project and get more information, schedule a discovery call.

To get started making your home extraordinary, book a consultation.

Signs You Need an Interior Designer
Decide if Rowan Hall Interiors is the Knoxville interior designer for you

“How hard could it be?” might be the world’s most famous last words. If you’ve ever set out to DIY a daunting task, then you know the feeling of getting halfway through and realizing you should have hired a professional. Believe it or not, as a Knoxville interior designer, most of our clients have tried their hand at decorating their own homes in the past. They decided the end result was not worth the time-consuming, tedious work, and for their next project, Rowan Hall Interiors was their first call!

Designing a home that reflects your personality and functions seamlessly can be a challenge. Whether you’re moving into a new house, renovating your current space, or just looking for a fresh update, hiring a professional can make a world of difference. If you’re located in East Tennessee, Knoxville interior designers can help take the stress out of the process, guiding you through design choices and ensuring your home looks stunning and works for your lifestyle.

How do you know when it’s time to hire an interior designer? If you’re debating whether or not to call Rowan Hall Interiors, here are some signs that you might need expert help:

1. You Feel Overwhelmed by Choices

When it comes to designing a home, the sheer number of decisions can feel overwhelming. From selecting paint colors and fabrics to choosing furniture and lighting, each choice impacts the overall look and feel of your space. If you’re finding it hard to narrow down your options or visualize how everything will come together, it might be time to call in the experts.

As your Knoxville interior designer, we know how to take your vision and translate it into a cohesive plan. We can guide you through the process, offering expert advice on color schemes, furniture placement, and décor, ensuring that every choice works harmoniously together.

BEFORE

AFTER

2. Your Home Doesn’t Reflect Your Style

Have you ever looked around your home and felt like it just doesn’t represent who you are? Your home should feel like an extension of your personality, a space where you feel comfortable and proud to invite guests. If your current décor feels outdated, mismatched, or simply not “you,” it could be a sign that you need help from a professional designer.

Sometimes people buy something they love in a store, but they get home and realize it just doesn’t work. Maybe you’re facing a design identity crisis, and you can’t figure out how to create the style you love. Rowan Hall’s Knoxville interior designers are skilled at getting to know their clients’ tastes, preferences, and needs. We’ll create a design that reflects your unique style while incorporating elements that enhance both form and function.

3. You’re Not Sure How to Use the Space

Whether you’ve moved into a new home or are simply trying to reconfigure a room, one of the biggest design challenges is making the most of your space. Are you struggling with an awkwardly shaped room or finding it hard to create a functional layout? Perhaps you have too much furniture in one space and not enough in another.

Hiring an interior designer can help you optimize every square foot of your home. Our designers have the expertise to create floor plans that maximize both style and functionality, helping you make the most of every corner of your home.

BEFORE

AFTER

4. You’re Working with a Challenging Space

Some homes present unique design challenges, such as oddly shaped rooms, low ceilings, or limited natural light. If you’re working with a space that feels difficult to design, an interior designer is the perfect solution. We have experience in tackling these types of obstacles and can offer creative solutions to make the space both beautiful and functional.

A professional designer can transform even the trickiest rooms into spaces that feel cohesive, comfortable, and visually appealing.

5. You Don’t Have the Time

Designing a home requires a significant investment of time and effort. Between researching design styles, sourcing furniture, and managing installation timelines, the process can feel overwhelming if you already have a busy schedule.

One of the greatest benefits of working with our Knoxville interior design team is the time-saving aspect. Rowan Hall handles all the details, from the initial concept to the final installation, allowing you to enjoy the transformation without the stress of managing every aspect of the project. You can relax knowing your home is in the hands of a professional who will ensure the project is completed on time and within budget. 

For more on our process, read here.

6. You Want a Polished, Professional Look

If you’re aiming for a magazine-worthy home, hiring an interior designer is the way to go. Designers have an eye for detail and can add the finishing touches that make a home feel complete. From custom drapery to perfectly styled shelves, we know how to create a high-end look that feels both inviting and luxurious.

7. You’re Preparing to Sell Your Home

If you’re thinking about selling your home in the Knoxville market, hiring an interior designer can help boost its appeal to potential buyers. A well-designed home can make a powerful first impression, and small design changes can often increase your home’s market value.

However, we are always a little bit sad when clients wait to call us when they are selling. If you’re making the investment, you should enjoy the result! Even if you aren’t planning to sell for months or years down the road, we can help create a profitable home that you can enjoy in the meantime.

8. You’re Ready for a Change but Don’t Know Where to Start

Sometimes, you know you want a change but aren’t sure where to begin. Whether you’re tired of your current décor or want to refresh your home’s overall style, an interior designer can offer the fresh perspective you need. We’ll assess your space, listen to your goals, and present design options that align with your vision while enhancing the beauty and functionality of your home.

If you find yourself nodding along to any of these signs, it might be time to bring in the experts. Working with Rowan Hall’s Knoxville interior designers can take the guesswork out of the design process, helping you create a space that’s both beautiful and functional. Whether you’re tackling a full renovation or just need help with a room refresh, a designer can guide you through every step and bring your dream home to life.

Ready to start your design journey? Contact Rowan Hall Interiors today and discover how we can transform your home into a space you’ll love for years to come.

Get the Rowan Hall party started!

To get in touch with a member of our team, fill out our contact form.

To discuss a potential project and get more information, schedule a discovery call.

To get started making your home extraordinary, book a consultation.

From Vision to Reality
Rowan Hall Interiors’ Design Process in Knoxville, TN

Transforming an interior design vision into reality requires a detailed and thoughtful design process. At Rowan Hall Interiors, we pride ourselves on our comprehensive approach to interior design, ensuring that every project we undertake is executed flawlessly. As one of the leading interior design firms in Knoxville, TN, we offer a personalized service that takes care of every detail, allowing you to enjoy a seamless and stress-free experience.

Initial Consultation

Our design process begins with an initial consultation where we take the time to understand your vision, preferences, and lifestyle needs. We believe that a well-designed home should reflect the personality and needs of its inhabitants, and our goal is to create a space that you will love for years to come. During the consultation, we listen carefully to your ideas and provide expert guidance to help you achieve the look and feel you desire.

Full-Service Design

Once we have a clear understanding of your vision, we develop a comprehensive design plan. This includes mood boards, color schemes, material samples, and detailed floor plans. Our design plan is tailored to meet your specific needs and preferences, ensuring that every aspect of the project reflects your unique style. We also provide a detailed timeline and budget, keeping you informed and involved throughout the process.

One of the key aspects of our design process is our white-glove service. From the moment you contact us, we take care of every detail, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience. This includes everything from ordering and storing the furnishings to coordinating with contractors and overseeing the installation. You can relax and enjoy the transformation of their home without having to lift a finger.

A Luxurious Final Product

A recent project that highlights our design process involved a couple who moved into their new home in Knoxville, TN. They wanted a space that reflected their modern style but also felt warm and inviting, and they wanted the job completed before they moved to East Tennessee.

We worked closely with them to create a design plan that incorporated their preferences while also providing practical solutions for their lifestyle.

The design plan included a neutral color palette with pops of color, modern furnishings, and high-quality materials. We also incorporated smart home technology to enhance the functionality of the space. Throughout the project, we kept the clients informed and involved, ensuring that every detail was executed flawlessly. The final result was a home that was not only beautiful but also comfortable and functional.

Our clients appreciated the white-glove service we provided, allowing them to move right into their new home without the hassle of managing the design process. They were thrilled with the transformation and loved the modern, inviting feel of their new space. This project is a testament to our ability to turn a vision into reality, making us one of the top interior design firms in Knoxville, TN.

Your Design Expert

At Rowan Hall Interiors, we stay updated on the latest design trends and techniques, ensuring that our designs are current and innovative. However, we also believe in creating timeless spaces that will stand the test of time. Our designs are a perfect blend of classic style and modern finishes, providing our clients with a space that they will love for years to come.

In conclusion, Rowan Hall Interiors’ comprehensive design process ensures that every project is executed flawlessly. Our personalized service, white-glove approach, and commitment to quality set us apart as one of the leading interior design firms in Knoxville, TN. Whether you are looking to redesign a single room or your entire home, we have the expertise and dedication to bring your vision to life. Contact us today to start your journey towards a beautifully designed home.

Get the Rowan Hall party started!

To get in touch with a member of our team, fill out our contact form.

To discuss a potential project and get more information, schedule a discovery call.

To get started making your home extraordinary, book a consultation.

Versatility and Comfort
Dual living spaces offer Knoxville interior design clients the best of both worlds

At Rowan Hall Interiors, we are known for our ability to curate interior furnishings that bring livable luxury into our clients’ homes. From comfortable, durable sofas to practical layouts and thoughtful accessories, our knack for furnishing a home is where Rowan Hall thrives.

We recently completed a beautiful dual living room project for a local Knoxville interior design client. Our goal was to seamlessly blend formality with family-friendly comfort. These adjoining spaces needed to flow together harmoniously while maintaining distinct atmospheres, each tailored to its purpose. The result? A perfect blend of livable luxury where relaxation meets timeless style.

Our Knoxville clients wanted their home to feel inviting and comfortable, yet sophisticated. To achieve this, we curated a selection of furniture, artwork, and accessories that complemented each space’s unique function. The formal living room exudes elegance and refinement, while the family room offers a laid-back, cozy vibe perfect for lounging and entertaining.

Formal Living Room: A Classic Conversation Space

In the formal living room, we opted for a more traditional layout to foster easy conversation and a sense of timeless grace. A structured sofa paired with a club chair provides the ideal arrangement for gatherings or quiet moments with a book. The neutral upholstery keeps the space elegant, while the rich wood tones in the coffee table add warmth. Matching lamps on either side of the sofa not only create symmetry but also enhance the room’s polished look.

We added a pair of chic, boucle poufs that can add more seating if needed or allow our clients to kick their feet up. These small ottomans are lightweight enough to be moved from one room to the other and durable enough to be used in a plethora of ways.

For this Knoxville interior design client, neutral tones on the larger furniture pieces ensure longevity in style, allowing these staple items to evolve with the clients’ tastes over the years. To keep the room from feeling too muted, we introduced pops of color through accent pillows and accessories. Subtle hints of cool blues and warm burnt oranges balance perfectly, adding vibrancy without overwhelming the serene environment.

The rug in the formal living room adds some depth of color that the light furnishings and light walls need to feel grounded. The deep blues and rust tones are mimicked in the accents throughout the room.

Family Room: Comfortable Elegance

The family room, designed to be more relaxed, features deep, cozy seating. Two sofas with performance upholstery invite you to kick back and relax—ideal for movie nights or casual get-togethers. The oversized leather ottoman not only adds texture but also functions as storage, ensuring the room stays clutter-free.

A unique feature in this room is the counter-height bar table behind one of the sofas. This space offers extra seating for guests, keeping the party going without the risk of spills on the sofas (even though the fabric can handle it). It’s a functional addition that maintains the room’s laid-back elegance.

The same neutral foundation carries into the family room, but we emphasized the comfort factor through deeper seat cushions and a large, inviting layout. Like the formal living room, we introduced color through accessories—burnt orange tones mixed with cool blues. This subtle yet impactful combination ties the two rooms together, creating a cohesive yet distinct style across both spaces.

Harmonious Flow and Coordinated Finishes

One of the primary challenges of this Knoxville interior design project was ensuring that the formal living room and family room complemented one another while serving different purposes. By maintaining a consistent palette of neutral tones and layering in color through artwork and accessories, we achieved a seamless transition between the two rooms. The mix of textures—leather, wood, and soft upholstery—further enhances the flow while adding depth and visual interest.

It takes an expert designer eye to discern between formal and informal fabrics and patterns, and that’s just what we did in these spaces. While the living room was designed with boucle and velvet, making the room feel slightly more elevated and formal, the family room’s subtle differences create an ambiance of relaxation. Leather and linen finishes are a less structured way of mimicking the same color palettes in this room. 

Bringing It All Together

What truly makes these spaces stand out is their versatility. The neutral foundation, combined with the thoughtful layering of accessories, allows the design to remain timeless. While the formal living room offers a polished, elegant space for entertaining, the family room provides a more casual and comfortable setting. Together, these rooms reflect our Knoxville interior design clients’ preference for subtlety and sophistication, offering them a home that feels both luxurious and livable.

This project exemplifies what Rowan Hall Interiors does best: creating spaces where our clients can relax, entertain, and live beautifully. By thoughtfully curating furniture, finishes, and accessories, we transformed these adjoining living rooms into a cohesive, luxurious haven.

We hope this glimpse into one of our recent projects with a Knoxville interior design client inspires you to reimagine your own spaces. Interested in updating your home for the upcoming season? Contact us today to reserve your spot and experience the Rowan Hall Interiors difference.

Get the Rowan Hall party started!

To get in touch with a member of our team, fill out our contact form.

To discuss a potential project and get more information, schedule a discovery call.

To get started making your home extraordinary, book a consultation.

The Benefits of Hiring an Interior Decorator in Knoxville, TN
What can Rowan Hall Interiors do for you?

There are endless reasons why our clients choose to hire Rowan Hall Interiors as their interior decorator in Knoxville, TN. The numerous benefits go beyond having a beautiful home. Our team provides expert guidance, saves you time and stress, and ensures your home reflects your personal style. With over 20 years of experience and white-glove service, we make the design process enjoyable and effortless for our clients.

Curious what an interior decorator can do for you? Keep reading or call our office to discuss with a member of our team. 865-585-2945

We have industry expertise.

One of the primary benefits of hiring an interior decorator is access to professional expertise. At Rowan Hall Interiors, our team of decorators has extensive knowledge of design principles, color theory, and space planning. We understand how to balance aesthetics and functionality to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also practical for everyday living. Our decorators are trained to see the potential in your space and know how to maximize it to suit your needs.

We take out the guesswork.

Another significant advantage of working with a professional interior decorator is the time and stress it saves you. Designing a home can be an overwhelming process, especially when it comes to making decisions about colors, furniture, and layout. Our decorators handle all the details, from creating a cohesive design plan to sourcing materials and coordinating with contractors. This allows you to relax and enjoy the transformation of your home without getting bogged down in the minutiae.

Our white-glove process allows you to enjoy the journey.

At Rowan Hall Interiors, we take pride in our white-glove service, which ensures a seamless and stress-free experience for our clients. Our process begins with an initial consultation where we discuss your vision, preferences, and lifestyle needs. We then develop a comprehensive design plan that incorporates your ideas and our expertise. Throughout the project, we keep you informed and involved, ensuring that the final result exceeds your expectations.

One of our recent projects involved a young professional who had just purchased her first home. She wanted a space that reflected her style but didn’t know where to start. We worked closely with her to create a design plan that incorporated her love for modern aesthetics with a touch of classic elegance. We handled everything from selecting furniture and accessories to overseeing the installation. The final result was a home that she loved and felt proud to show off to friends and family.

Our clients often express how much they appreciate our ability to bring their vision to life while taking care of all the details. The peace of mind that comes with knowing a professional decorator is handling everything is invaluable. Our clients can focus on their daily lives while we transform their homes into beautiful, functional spaces.

Your space will be custom tailored to your lifestyle and unique taste.

One of the unique aspects of working with Rowan Hall Interiors is our ability to provide custom solutions tailored to your specific needs. Whether it’s custom draperies, bespoke furniture, or unique design elements, we ensure that every aspect of your home is personalized and reflects your style. Our attention to detail and commitment to quality set us apart as one of the leading interior decorators in Knoxville, TN.

In conclusion, hiring a professional interior decorator in Knoxville, TN, like Rowan Hall Interiors, offers numerous benefits. Our expertise, white-glove service, and personalized approach ensure that your home reflects your unique style while saving you time and stress. Whether you are looking to redesign a single room or your entire home, we have the skills and dedication to bring your vision to life. 

Contact us today to start your journey towards a beautifully designed home. Our team will walk you through each step, beginning with an initial consultation to get the ball rolling. Schedule a consultation with no long-term commitment necessary. Call our office or fill out our contact form to get started!

Get the Rowan Hall party started!

To get in touch with a member of our team, fill out our contact form.

To discuss a potential project and get more information, schedule a discovery call.

To get started making your home extraordinary, book a consultation.