How to Customize Your Builder-Grade Home

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One of the most commonly asked questions that has been in my DMs lately is how to make your builder-grade home feel more custom. I get it. I’ve walked through dozen of homes that are lacking in terms of personality & design. With a few small changes your home can go from builder-grade to feeling more like you & your family with a custom touch. No matter your budget, there is something on the list below that can work for you. Let’s dive in.

Lighting. Production builders often leave a lot to be lacking in terms of lighting. What I’ve seen is they either they put in the most basic option or they try to go with what’s on trend & that can quickly date a home. Say goodbye to those boring builder-grade light fixtures and hello to something that reflects your personal style. Whether you prefer sleek and modern or vintage and eclectic, investing in new lighting fixtures can instantly add character and charm to any space. Plus this is a simple swap out that anyone can do, no professional needed. You can find some of my favorite lighting options HERE!

*Photography by Grace Laird Photography*

Cabinet Hardware. I have been shocked many of times when I walk into a new builder grade home & there is no cabinet hardware anywhere. If there is hardware, it’s pretty basic. It's amazing what a difference adding or swapping out basic hardware can make. Replace those generic knobs and pulls on your kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanity with something a bit more stylish. You'll be amazed at how such a small change can elevate the entire look of the room. My favorite cabinet hardware is from Rejuvenation, but it can get pricey fast. My advice is to invest in good quality stuff in the main areas that get the most use. Secondary areas can still get an update but you don’t have to use top of the line. If your budget doesn’t allow for some of the pricey hardware, then Amazon has great dupes that are really great quality. I’ve put many of dupes in my kid’s areas. I have lots of options of cabinet hardware for you to check out HERE.

Paint. A fresh coat of paint can totally change a space. I’ve seen it time and time again in homes. Even in my own home, we painted our gray walls with a fresh coat of white paint & wow! I’m not saying you have to go white, but I do love a good neutral paint palette in a home. This allows you to add color & texture with all of your furniture and accessories. If you are going to DIY this job, well more power to you. My mom & I painted my bedroom every summer & I don’t think I’ll ever paint a room in my house again; I prefer to hire this out (shoot me a DM if you are in the Houston area & need a painter, I have the best)! Truly no matter your budget, paint is an option. Not sure on what color to go with, grab my favorite colors here, along with tips on how to pick the perfect shade for your space.

Windows. It’s time to get rid of those plastic blinds and maybe even those plantation shutters (I know these were an investment b/c we had them in our first home). Bringing in woven shades, roman shades & draperies to your windows will not only bring it up to date, but it adds a layer of texture & warmth that will make any room feel more cozy and inviting. I personally loves these custom drapes from Amazon.

These are just a few budget friendly ways to upgrade your home. Remember, you don’t have to do everything at once. Pick one thing, one room & just do it as budget allows. Creating a home that reflects you takes time, unless you have an unlimited budget, so be patient & do what you can when you can.