Wanting to put a personal stamp on your place is a natural desire that comes with the process of buying a new house. That may seem challenging, however, if you and the previous homeowner have very different tastes in decorating. If your home is a new build, maybe you want it to look less cookie-cutter. Or, perhaps you’re simply having a hard time finding ways to justify replacing the builder-grade materials with items that are more suited to your personal style. Not to worry! Here are 12 projects that can help personalize your house so it feels like a home.

1. Make your curb appeal something worth talking about

The term curb appeal is used to describe the attractiveness of the exterior of your home as viewed from the street. It can be incorporated through a number of methods including the installation of exterior decorations, re-painting, and paying extensive attention to the landscaping.

For example, a fresh coat of paint on the front door can really make your home stand out from the rest, especially if you live in an area where most of the homes are similar in style. Yes, something so simple can make a huge difference! And, it costs way less than repainting the entire exterior of the house. Add some shiny new hardware, locks, peep window, or a doorbell and you’ve got yourself a fresh look.

Another way to jazz up the curb appeal would be to plant some hedges or colorful perennials around the perimeter of your home. There’s something so nice about a house that has greenery.

2. Wallpaper an unexpected place

If you want to personalize your home without doing something too drastic, wallpaper is a great way to do it. But that doesn’t mean you need to focus on a large room. In fact, just the opposite. Instead, look to add wallpaper in an unexpected place like a powder room. It’s a really great way to make a huge personal statement in a bold and colorful way.

3. Upgrade some light fixtures

Lighting is one of the most overlooked yet important elements of interior design. In addition to serving a function, the right lighting can make a really great style statement. If your new home has subpar or outdated light fixtures, swap them out for ones whose style will boost the appearance of the room. There is such a wide variety of beautiful lighting available these days, it’s easy to find something to fit any decorating style. Read our related blogs 5 Bright Lighting Trends for Illuminating Your Home and The Importance of Lighting and What to Consider When Lighting Your Home.

4. Create a drop space in your entryway

You may not realize it, but having a designated spot for keys and other important items can make your place feel downright homey. It doesn’t matter if you put up a row of hooks or simply have a catchall dish on an entryway table–just make sure it’s convenient to your lifestyle.

5. Upgrade window treatments

Window treatments are a decorating detail that can really give your space a personal and polished look. From Roman shades to wood blinds and airy curtains to floor-to-ceiling drapes, there’s no shortage of window treatments to choose from. When the time comes to update your window treatments, be sure to make choices that suit your design style.

6. Hang items up on the walls

The walls in your home are a blank canvas, providing you with an amazing design opportunity. In fact, the right wall art can elevate the room to a whole new level. So use them! It can be a large-scale piece of art, mirrors, a variety of framed family photos, or a combination of all three— whatever you choose, make sure you love it.

7. Roll out a comfortable rug

We add style all around us in your home, so why not on the floor? Sure, an area rug is functional in that it protects our floors, but it’s also a way to add color, texture, and of course, comfort. Having at least one space in your home with a rug can make that space feel extra welcoming while radiating personal style.

8. Paint a wall or two

Painting a wall or two (or more), in a color you really enjoy, is one of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to give your home a personal touch. Getting a touch of color on the walls will make your house feel more like a home and can also aid in planning the rest of your home’s color palette. When selecting paint, opt for a sheen that is slightly more glossy than flat paint so it is more cleanable.

9. Update kitchen and bathroom details

For many, a full remodel isn’t always feasible after making a large purchase like a house. That doesn’t mean you can’t freshen up your kitchen and bathroom in smaller, more affordable ways. Change out the faucets, cabinet hardware, towel bars, light fixtures, and mirrors for an updated look more suited toward your tastes.

10. Put effort into your outdoor space

It doesn’t matter if you have a small slab of a patio, a large wraparound porch, or a large back deck— find a way to add features that will make your home a comfortable one. A fire pit, hammock or swing, grill, and table set are just some of the ways you can entice friends and family to get outside and enjoy themselves.

11. Layer in cozy comforts

Small accessories can certainly make a place feel much more personal and welcoming. Decorative pillows in a fabric you love, plush throws and rugs, fresh flowers in a vase, and pretty accent lighting are all smaller items that can make all the difference.

12. Have something custom made

Custom made furniture, finishes, and upholstery often require a longer process than just picking something out at the store, but there are some really awesome benefits you can reap from it. If personalization is something you crave, a custom piece is a wonderful way to do it. Not only will a custom-made item be better quality, but it also gives you the chance to pick fabrics that really speak to you. Not sure what items are worth being custom made? Consider draperies, throw pillows, an upholstered headboard, or another piece of furniture, such as an accent chair.

Now that you have some ideas on how to personalize your home, let us help get you started. Stop into one of our INTERIOR FABRICS showrooms a quick trip from Woodlands, TX or browse our collection of fabrics, pillows, custom furniture, and rugs online.