Congratulations on your new build home! It’s a blank canvas awaiting your personal touch, unsullied by previous occupancy and ready for those unique flourishes that only you could possibly pull off.
But if you have a family, you know that your décor choices must walk a fine line between style and durability. After all, a house filled with kids, pets, and the occasional chaotic family gathering demands decor that can withstand it all.
To help you find the perfect balance, we’re about to explore the art of family-friendly decorating, showing you how to create a stylish and resilient living space that can handle the whirlwind of family life. Care to join us? Of course you do…
The Challenge Of Family Living
Family life is a beautiful chaos of laughter, playdates, and impromptu dance parties. But it can also be tough on your home. Spills, stains, knocks, and scuffs are par for the course. So, how do you strike the right balance between aesthetics and practicality?
Invest In Quality Furniture
A home is said to be as cosy and welcoming as the furniture you incorporate. The choices you make, particularly when considering a family home, play a pivotal role in creating a warm, inviting, and, above all, durable living environment. Practicality and aesthetic appeal blend in harmony when you choose furniture pieces crafted not just for style, but also for daily wear and tear…
- Sturdy Frames: Solid wood or metal frames are more durable than particleboard or plastic.
- Easy-to-Clean Fabrics: Opt for upholstery that can be cleaned easily, like microfibre, leather, or performance fabrics. If you have pets that like to jump on the couch, use stylish and snuggly throws and blankets to cover the upholstery and protect it from errant claws.
- Removable and Washable Covers: If you have young children or pets, consider furniture with removable, machine-washable covers.
- Neutral Colours: Neutral furniture provides a versatile base that can be updated with colourful accents.
Flooring Solutions For High Traffic Areas
The foundation that sets the stage for your home’s overall aesthetic is none other than your flooring. A carefully selected floor can not only enhance a room’s beauty but also withstand the high traffic that defines family living. Investing in the right flooring solutions for high-traffic areas can ensure that despite the hustling footprints of childhood exploits, your floor remains undamaged and ever stylish…
- Hardwood with a Protective Finish: Hardwood floors with a durable finish are both elegant and resilient.
- Laminate Flooring: Laminate mimics the look of hardwood but is more affordable and resistant to scratches and spills.
- Tile or Luxury Vinyl: These options are waterproof and easy to clean, making them ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
- Area Rugs: Layering area rugs over hard surfaces not only adds style but also provides extra protection in high-traffic areas.
Kid-Friendly Decor & Furnishings
Decorating a home that caters to both the adults and children within the family can seem like a daunting task. However, choosing kid-friendly décor isn’t synonymous with forgoing elegance. There’s an exhilarating world of furnishings available to transform your home into a haven for children without compromising on the prevailing style or your aesthetic inclinations…
- Playful Patterns: Incorporate playful patterns in cushions, bedding, and curtains to create a family-friendly atmosphere.
- Child-Sized Furniture: Consider child-sized furniture, like pint-sized chairs and tables, for designated play areas.
- Storage Solutions: Invest in stylish storage solutions to keep toys, books, and art supplies organised and out of sight.
- Wall Decals: Wall decals are a creative and temporary way to add fun and personality to kids’ rooms.
Durable Paint & Finishes
The paints and finishes you select for your surfaces are the unsung heroes of your home’s décor. While their aesthetic appeal contributes significantly to the overall look, their durability is paramount in maintaining that beauty amidst boisterous family life. Craftsmanship in your home’s design is marked by the meticulous selection of durable, scuff-resistant paints, and finishes…
- Semi-Gloss or Satin Paint: These finishes are easier to clean than flat paint and are less likely to show scuffs and stains.
- Washable Wallpaper: If you love the look of wallpaper, opt for washable varieties that can handle occasional spills.
- Scuff-Resistant Baseboards: Upgrade to scuff-resistant baseboards to protect against scuffs and dings from furniture and shoes.
Versatile Storage Solutions
A peaceful home is an organised home, particularly with children around. Clutter can inadvertently creep into corners, which is where versatile storage solutions come in. From the quiet elegance of built-in shelving to the practical charm of multi-functional furniture, opt for storage solutions that not only create an orderly abode but also contribute to its aesthetic allure…
- Built-In Shelving: Built-in shelves can be stylish and functional, providing a place to display decor and store everyday items.
- Multi-Functional Furniture: Look for furniture with built-in storage, like ottomans or beds with drawers.
- Closet Organisers: Maximise closet space with organisers that keep clothes and accessories tidy.
Accessorise With Intention
While larger entities like furniture and flooring play a significant role, accessories are the cherries on top that complete the look. They offer an excellent way to infuse a bit of personal style into every nook and cranny. Thoughtfully chosen accessories not only add a splash of colour and an element of intrigue but can also serve practical purposes…
- Decorative Baskets: Use baskets for quick and attractive clutter control.
- Washable Throw Pillows: Opt for throw pillows with removable and washable covers.
- Durable Artwork: Choose artwork framed and protected to withstand curious little hands.
Building Warranties: Protecting Your Investment
In the whirlwind of life, your home is your fortress of solitude, your sanctuary. It’s your most significant investment, and safeguarding it through a comprehensive building warranty is just as critical as every design decision you make. Understanding your building warranty’s terms and coverage can help you maintain the longevity of your new build home, providing peace of mind amidst the chaos of family life…
This safety net ensures that you’re covered in the long term, in case of structural issues or defects in your new build home – particularly if you have opted for the 10 year new build warranty or longer. While your decor choices play a significant role in maintaining your home’s aesthetics and functionality, your building warranty is your shield against unexpected challenges.
It’s essential to understand the terms and coverage of your building warranty thoroughly. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Warranty Period: Familiarise yourself with the duration of your building warranty. Different components of your home may have varying warranty lengths.
- Coverage Details: Know what is covered and what is not. Building warranties typically cover structural issues but may exclude certain elements like appliances or finishes.
- Maintenance Responsibilities: Some warranties require you to perform regular maintenance to keep the coverage valid. Ensure you’re aware of these responsibilities.
- Reporting Procedures: Familiarise yourself with the process for reporting issues to the builder. Timely reporting is often crucial to address problems efficiently.
By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure that your home is well-protected through your building warranty, allowing you to focus on creating a stylish and durable living space for your family.
Kid-Friendly Decor That Grows With Them
Children grow and evolve, and so do their preferences. Creating a flexible living space that can easily be modified to capture their evolving interests is key to nurturing their growth while maintaining a stylish home. Investing in transformable elements and versatile decor is a proactive approach to ensure your home adapts with your growing child…
- Modular Furniture: Invest in furniture that can be easily reconfigured or repurposed as your children’s needs change. For example, modular shelving units can transform from toy storage to bookshelves.
- Neutral Base, Versatile Accents: Start with a neutral colour palette for walls and large furniture pieces. Then, use colourful and themed accessories like bedding, artwork, and rugs that can be updated as your children’s tastes shift.
- Learning and Creativity Spaces: Designate areas for learning and creativity, such as a homework nook or an art station. These spaces can adapt to your children’s academic and artistic pursuits.
- Storage Solutions: Keep clutter at bay with creative storage solutions. As your children accumulate more toys, clothes, and books, having designated storage areas can help maintain a tidy and organised home.
Creating a space that grows with your children ensures that your family-friendly decor remains functional and enjoyable for years to come.
The Bottom Line
Balancing style and durability in your family’s new build home is entirely achievable. With a little creativity and some intentional decorating, your home can become a haven for family gatherings, celebrations, and everyday moments of joy.
So, let your family’s personality shine through in your decor, and make your new build house a true family-friendly masterpiece.