From Fixtures to Appliances - Designing Your New Home

Photo by Jean van der Meulen via Pixabay

You are nearing the end of a building project when your general contractor reminds you that it will soon be time to finalize your lighting, fixtures and appliances. You have been looking and saving different ideas for months, so it seems it should be easy to make your final decisions right? Here are a few ways to solidify your new accessories.

What Is Your Style?

It’s not uncommon to find yourself liking a variety of styles; however, it’s usually best to find a style that is most appealing to you and carry that style/theme throughout your home.

Did your last home have gold fixtures and now the trend seems to be silver or brushed bronze? Don't let the past define your future style. Be open-minded as you explore what new styles you might find yourself drawn to, and solidify the one that speaks most to your tastes.

Online Ideas

Online research can be very helpful. Is your style Old World, Traditional, Contemporary or cottage charm? With many styles to consider, you might feel a little overwhelmed. But before you know it, you’ll discover a style that brings a smile to your face. If Traditional is your choice, all you need to do is search key terms such as "traditional style kitchens," "traditional bathrooms" or even "traditional style landscaping," and you’ll be shocked at all the options you have to choose from.

Budget

Before moving ahead too quickly, remember your overall budget. Do you have a particular refrigerator or stove you were hoping to have, but it does not fall into your budget? You may want to prioritize the appliances that you’ve been hoping for and scale back on a few stylistic choices.

Moving Ahead

Now that the research is complete and you know the style and appliances you are you want, it’ll be fairly simple to pick your various items. The general contractor will provide you with an online or local home improvement store in which to choose each item, along with sizing and itemized cost parameters.

Cherry on Top

Once all your necessary items are set in place, you can add the finishing touches as you incorporate color and texture. Furniture, pillows and other decor such as family photos and art will add the needed warmth and personality to turn your house into a home.

Not sure where to start? Ask your real estate agent for the names of reliable decorating and interior design professionals in your area.