Moving into your first new build home is an incredibly exciting time, and you’ll likely be kept busy organising and styling the space to your tastes. From setting up the essential spaces like your kitchen and bedroom to adding your own flair through interior design, it helps to go in with a plan.
With a little preparation and forethought, you can find some really inventive and budget-friendly ways to make your first new build home feel designer. In this article, we’ll provide you with some useful tips to help you invite some high-end styles into your new build without breaking the bank.
Set the Mood With Lighting
Standard lighting is often practical rather than stylish, which can leave spaces feeling a little flat. With the right approach, you can incorporate lighting into your interior design to elevate the space without spending much. Swapping basic ceiling pendants for statement lights is one of the quickest ways to add some flair to your home. You might want to consider:
• Oversized pendants for dining areas
• Simple matte black or brass fittings
• Warm bulbs to soften the space
Table lamps and floor lamps also help create a layered, high-end feel. This approach can be really fun, especially if you look for unique pieces that you can upcycle.
Add a Splash of Colour to Your Walls
Another great way to bring some high-end interior design into your new build is through the smart use of colour. Your walls are a great place to showcase your favourite colour schemes, and you can do this in loads of different ways. For example, you can hang artwork that uses strong colours and provides a bit of pop. Other budget-friendly options include:
• Paint an accent wall in a soft neutral (greige, sage, or clay tones work well)
• Peel-and-stick wallpaper for bedrooms or downstairs WCs
• Picture ledges instead of full gallery walls (for less commitment and more flexibility)
These small changes add depth without risking your decorating budget too much.
Make Soft Furnishings Work Harder
Cushions, throws, and curtains are where designer homes really shine, and they’re easy to swap as your taste evolves. Better yet, you can get that high-end, luxury look without spending too much. Look out for designs and colour schemes you like and try to:
• Stick to a limited colour palette (2 to 3 colours max)
• Mix textures like linen, velvet and wool
• Choose full-length curtains hung higher than the window frame to create height
Even affordable furnishings can look premium when styled thoughtfully. It can be helpful to have a colour scheme locked in so you know what colours to look for and match.
Style With Intention, Not Clutter
New builds tend to have open layouts, which means clutter shows quickly if you aren’t careful. Designer homes feel curated, not crowded. So, try to avoid clutter to keep your space feeling fresh and be mindful about what stays out on display. Simple styling tips that you can emulate here include:
• Using trays to group items on coffee tables or sideboards
• Adding indoor plants (real or high-quality faux plants work well)
• Leaving some surfaces intentionally empty
A few well-chosen accessories look far more luxurious than shelves packed with décor.
Think Long-Term to Make Your New Build Feel High-End
Your first new build doesn’t need to look like a show home overnight. Designer style is built gradually and purposefully. Focus on upgrades that reflect how you actually live, and layer in personality over time. With thoughtful choices and a bit of patience, your new build can feel stylish, personal and beautifully put together, without stretching your finances.
If you’re on the lookout for your dream home, then our team at Sanctuary can help you find a new build property that suits you. To learn more, please explore our developments or contact a member of our team to discuss your specific needs.