Have some fun filling the gaps
Much of the fun of a brand new home is how you fill up the rooms and other spaces in it. Or not. Let’s take a fresh look at ways to fill — or leave open — some gaps in the new home so they reflect your style, meet your needs and allow optimal movement of people, pets, sightlines, light and air.
An inviting entryway
Welcome yourself and guests in with a comforting entryway. Achieve a look that suits your style and function by measuring the space and deciding if tables, chairs, benches or combinations of all will best suit the space.
A glass-top console table with a wood or metal frame that blends with your decor can bring brightness to the entryway. In a space with natural light, you can even add some potted plants atop it.
If the entryway is small, consider a “floating” console table or a series of floating mantel pieces mounted to the wall.
A box or bowl or two on a lower mantel can hold keys, garage-door openers, dog leashes and more.
If the living room is a good distance from the entryway, look at understated but comfortable chairs or an entryway bench with built-in storage. A small table in the seating area adds a nice touch.
Hallways that flow
A decorated hallway adds style and class. Ask the builder about standard and upgraded lighting options to brighten up the space.
Consider hanging framed artwork or a framed mirror in these transitional spaces. Because halls provide transition from one area to the next, choose design elements that blend with the rooms on either side of the corridor. Balance is key to creating flow.
A well-positioned sideboard table or accent table can add form or function, especially if it has a storage drawer or can be placed near an outlet. Tip: Ask the builder for an extra outlet!
Builders like to use every inch of available space. Near staircases, for instance, the builder might offer the option of an under-stair shelving unit, seating area or storage space with a hidden door.
A kitchen of treats
How about bar stools for that amazing center island or breakfast bar in the new home’s kitchen? Here, less ornate or heavy stools might serve you better, but they still can be added with style.
A few contemporary options that offer flexibility across design styles include minimalist stools with clean lines and simple colors and chic, industrial stools with raw or exposed metals and woods. Some might even include distressed leather cushions.
In a kitchen with intentionally understated design choices such as light cabinets, LVP floors in a natural tone and quartz countertops, consider going bolder with the stools. Opt for woodframed stools painted in rich colors. Or choose a more ornate metalframed design for a pop of interest.
For the kitchen that is filled with warm colors and ornate cabinetry or molding, consider understated stools made of clear acrylic or metal that complements the cabinet handles.
If the stools are near to the main dining area or family room, consider a swivel mechanism or adjustable-height stools. Also remember the comfort level of stools with built-in cushions and backrests.
A home office that works
Homebuyers don’t always have the luxury of a home office that doesn’t also serve another purpose, such as a guest room, a playroom or a media room. To avoid packing too much furniture in the room for its various uses, look into space-saving furniture.
The Murphy bed, or wall bed, has made a comeback in recent years. Many of the latest designs are built to double as library or display cases, cabinetry or convertible desks. Some Murphy beds can serve as a decorative case for books or knickknacks — a good background for video calls that doesn’t fill the room with a large bed.
Another wall-bed option can feature a foldout table or desk space to which you can slide up your chair or chairs while working. Use it as a work-fromhome desk, a children’s homework space or a craft area. Simply fold it up when the bed is needed.
A wall bed might even allow a small wing chair in the room, letting the office also serve as a place to read, make phone calls or just relax.
Take your time when deciding how to fill spaces and get ideas from the builder. Transitional and flexible choices will always win.