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 Alfie notes that many homes built in the 1990s (and beyond) came standard with a large, gold chandelier—an outdated look that doesn’t match today’s design trends.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!
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