5 Easy Ways To Add Character To Your Home

Written by Jaymi Naciri Posted On Sunday, 24 May 2015 05:51

If you're buying a newer home, or one that was built in the last 50 or so years, it may be lacking the charm you're looking for. Thankfully, there are ways to add charm into your home that will give you the function - and the form - you want.

"With little time and little money, you can add lots of charm all around the house," said HGTV.

Here's how.

1. Moldings

Crown molding is among the easiest ways to bring some character and architectural interest into your home, and it's inexpensive, especially if you do it yourself. But if the idea of mitering corners is making you hyperventilate, a handyman can quickly transform your blah space into something beautiful.

Houzz doesn't stop at crown molding. They recommend transforming all the trim in your house.

"When it comes to architecture, details count. They also define," they said. "The places where floors, doors, ceilings and windows meet the walls are usually accompanied by trim. The way that trim is executed has refined and defined our houses throughout history. Trim adds character and flavor to a home, the way pearl buttons finish off a shirt or cinnamon completes a coffee cake. And it helps distinguish one style of architecture from another."


Houzz

See Houzz for detailed examinations of how to add Victorian, Colonial, Georgian, Craftsman, or Contemporary trim to your home.

2. Cabinetry that looks built-in

Those charming built-ins you see in old Craftsman homes—you know, the ones that flank an old fireplace or create a great hutch in the dining room—are lovely. Although it would be hard to find a home built nearly 100 years ago with perfect—condition built-ins. You know what would be easier? Creating your own built-in-looking cabinetry. It's not as hard as it sounds, and it doesn't have to cost much either.

"It's still possible to add character, charm, and storage space into our homes without hiring a carpenter or moving into a historic home," said Infarrantly Creative. "In fact, getting a few built-ins of your own is as easy as getting creative with inexpensive shelving from a big-box store."

This library wall was created by Centsational Girl using four IKEA BILLY bookcases and some trim molding.


Centsational Girl

See Infarrantly Creative for more ideas.

3. Lighting

You may be able to find charming period lighting if you scour second-hand stores, antique shops, or flea markets. Or, you can pick up a reproduction piece and instantly transform a space.


PW Vintage Lighting

4. Cozy reading nook

Is there anything more charming, really, than an inspiring space to curl up with a book?

"Give an awkward area a purpose and appeal. Transform a basic bay or boxy window into a reading nook," said Better Homes and Gardens.

This can be easily achieved by building a platform or with in-stock cabinets from Lowe's and a DIY cushion. See some great ideas here.


Newlyweds in New York

5. Think Hardware

"Reinvent your entry or interior doors with antiqued brass, crystal, porcelain, or colored-glass doorknobs," said Better Homes and Gardens. The same can be done with hardware in your kitchen and bathroom to bring in a vintage or retro touch.

Rate this item
(7 votes)

Agent Resource

Limited time offer - 50% off - click here

Realty Times

From buying and selling advice for consumers to money-making tips for Agents, our content, updated daily, has made Realty Times® a must-read, and see, for anyone involved in Real Estate.