How to add your personality to a brand new build

Most homes gradually become a reflection of the personality and style of the people who live in them, but some get a head start with a vision that’s planned well ahead.

Luke Lindley of AM Property Agency, who lists this week’s Waramanga feature property, says it began its journey with a cohesive theme.

“The vision was to fuse Hamptons style with coastal chic, and that informed the approach to the entire design,” he says.

“That led to the inclusion of many features that expressed that particular style, like a cathedral ceiling in the family room to draw in the light and the incorporation of iconic plantation shutters.”

Lindley says equal attention was also given to the selection of fixtures, fittings and soft furnishings to further build upon the theme.

“The overall style proves the value of careful research, sticking closely to a plan and paying attention to detail,” he says.

Nicky Bush of Sympatico Styling says it is entirely possible to inject character into a home that might present in, say, a neutral palette.

“The age of the property doesn’t matter – whether it’s an older home or a new build,” she says.

“What really matters is the time you spend thinking about what you want to achieve. That investment is what pays dividends.”

Bush says the built style of the home itself can often suggest the way forward.

“An older home could increase its character feel through unique furniture pieces, complemented by, say, soft furnishings like curtains, rugs, cushions and throws,” she says.

TOP TIPS 

Do it yourself

Inject personality into a space through some easy, affordable fixes.  Artworks can help theme spaces and provide an end-to-end narrative. Soft furnishings such as rugs, cushions and throws can bring in the texture.

Cosy up

Create an inviting home through warm tones and natural materials, and populate with a careful selection of unique furniture, display pieces, candles, mirrors, plants and bookcases crammed with colourful spines.

Make additions

Give your home some X-factor with instant character features such as plantation shutters or perhaps a gas or electric fireplace. Deep skirtings and ceiling mouldings add visual interest. Introduce unique light fittings.

FEATURE PROPERTY 

42 Garanya Street, Waramanga

There’s nothing quite like a new home, and this five-bedroom Waramanga gem further distinguishes itself by perfectly blending Hamptons elegance with coastal charm.

This contemporary, light-filled residence offers about 336 square metres of internal space highlighted by high ceilings, skylights, picture windows, plantation shutters, timber flooring and a fireplace.

Off the entry, a big living room and the fifth bedroom or study are passed en route to the hub of the home, which houses the kitchen-dining and family zone.

View property

The kitchen will inspire the home cook with its oversized island and a beefy lineup of integrated appliances, along with a 900-millimetre cooktop and oven.

The supporting butler’s pantry increases the potential catering capacity with yet another oven and plenty of storage for bulk appliances.

The family room will be the place to hang out, with its cathedral ceiling and its statement winter-warming fireplace.

The main suite is located on the upper level along with the balance of the bedrooms. It boasts a huge walk-through wardrobe and a luxe en suite with dual vanities.

The main bathroom has a free-standing bath.

The outdoor area and its covered patio offer year-round entertaining possibilities, while a sparkling pool will – no doubt – become a summer favourite, as will a large backyard play area.

The home has an oversized double garage and is conveniently located close to schools, shops, parks and amenities.