From Cookie-Cutter to Custom...How We'll Change Your Builder-Grade Home for the Better

Builder grade homes are always so blah! It's basic because they're spending their money on finishes and unless there's a homeowner already involved to give input, they want to make sure it's pleasing to the masses and provides the most profit. Now, I'm not knocking how they do this, it makes sense for it to be this way. However, now that the home is yours, it should change to fit your personality and showcase finishes that you love and feel, quite literally, at home with. Let's look at how to elevate your home and transform your life.

Tip #1: Embellish with Elegant New Lighting

One of the quickest and easiest ways to upgrade that builder grade look is ditch all original light fixtures, you know that one in your entry way that's got a not so flattering nickname which we won't mention here? Yea, ditch it. Instead pick ones that reflect a style you love. If you can, I also recommend seeing about adding more recessed lights, there often aren't enough and it's easy enough for an electrician to pop one in. Think about adding pendants and wall sconces too. Adding different types of lighting meets all the functional and aesthetic needs of a space. And, no, they shouldn't all match each other. Just coordinate.

Tip #2: Dramatize with Wall or Ceiling Details

Another way to elevate your space is sprucing up those flat ceilings and boring walls. Add color, maybe some ceiling beams, add some crown or wall moldings. You can do shiplap or board and batten if that's what makes you happy. Wallpaper has come back and is here to stay friends. It's beautiful, it can be subtle or bold and you no longer have the same hassles of the old days with installation. Do something that brings life and style to the space that evokes the right feelings for you.

Tip #3: Sophisticate with Shutters or Drapery

Another way to spruce up your space and customize it is by replacing the standards blinds with basically any other options. You can go for roman shades, plantation shutters, drapery, roller shades, etc. You can operate these by hand or remotely. You can allow it to blend in and not be a feature or you can make a statement with a fun color and bold pattern. Just make sure this is one of the last things you do because you want all the other key elements already in place, so your drapes or shades coordinate with what's existing.

Tip #4: Enhance with a Custom Home Exterior

Now for the curb appeal. A builder grade exterior makes every home look cookie cutter and while I do love cookies, I don't want to think of my house that way! If you're able pending any HOA boards that need approval, change the color of your home to one that makes you happy. Please don't automatically pick white because it's everywhere you look. Be adventurous. Maybe swap out the garage door or add some details to spruce it up. Consider a different front door that doesn't look like everyone else's, maybe it just needs a new stain or coat of paint. There's also often a lack of proper walkway from the driveway to the door or things can get cramped. Extend that space so you have room to easily carry in the groceries and not being walking in damp grass after a rain. Then consider an exterior lights you may have. They're called coach lights and again they're often all the same. Find some that speak to you and do a good job lighting up the beautiful changes you've made.

Tip #5: Beautify with a Backyard Makeover

Finally, or maybe even first on your list, the backyard could definitely use a makeover! Customize your landscape design to create a space for your favorite backyard activities. Maybe you want a putting green, a fire pit, a porch swing, a pool, a tree house, a pergola to host dinner guests under. Whatever your preference, jazz it up and bring in some color. Add trees and flowers and shrubs that give the yard a completed feel and bring a smile to your face whenever you step outside. We learned recently the profound impact being outdoors has upon your mental and physical health. So, enhance that space so you can truly enjoy being a healthier you!

A final thought is to focus on what makes you happy. The space you're in 365 days a year has a profound impact upon your mental and therefore physical health so it's important to make it yours. The home is meant to serve you and not the other way around so focusing on flow and organization is also important when redesigning your home. It should suit your needs and can be altered to do that, you may simply need a professional or two to help get the job done right. And trust me, it'll be worth it!

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Cheers!

Marcie