A custom-built home is a home designed and built for a client. You work directly with an architect and residential contractors and construction workers to create a home. These types of homes can be fully custom (where you help design the floor plan) or semi-custom (with a set floor plan).
More and more homeowners are moving towards custom-built homes for both primary and secondary (vacation homes) residences. If you’re thinking about a custom-built home, here are some design and decor ideas to help get you inspired.
#1: Boho Bedroom Design and Decor
The Boho style follows the less popular term “more is more”, meaning that you use a variety of colors, textures, and objects to achieve this style. It also incorporates some of the outdoors (such as houseplants) with the indoors. Examples of different textures include using a tapestry as a headboard, fuzzy rugs, wicker seating (such as a swing chair), and maybe even a touch of velvet.
As for the architectural design of the room, make sure that there are enough windows to bring in tons of natural light. Another idea is to maybe even have shelves built into the walls. If this style seems too cluttered for you, there’s also Boho Chic that takes on a slightly minimalist form of the original.
#2: Farmhouse Kitchen Design and Decor
The Farmhouse (both Classic and Modern) style is very popular right now, and it’s most often seen in kitchens more than any other room of the house. This style focuses on rustic charm, highlighting practicality and simplicity.
When setting your kitchen up for a true Farmhouse design, make sure to have exposed wooden beams in the ceiling and true hardwood floors. You’ll also want room for a farmhouse sink and a standalone kitchen island (made from wood, of course) with a marble countertop. As for decor, You’ll want your cabinetry to be wood as well, with marble countertops. You’ll also either want glass doors for your cabinets, or open shelves altogether to show off your dishes and small appliances.
#3: French Country Living Room Design and Decor
The French Country style is a mixture of antique French and Farmhouse, with a touch of Mid-Century Modern. This style for the living room will compliment your Farmhouse kitchen perfectly, especially if you choose to go with an open concept floor plan— which many people prefer these days. You’ll also want large, floor-to-ceiling windows to bring in as much natural light as possible.
Decorate your French Country living room with wooden furniture and soft patterned fabrics. For a fun D.I.Y. project, distress and paint your wooden furniture pieces to really complete the look. Cover your large windows with sheer, lace curtains that give the perfect combination of privacy and natural lighting.
#4: Nautical Bathroom Design and Decor
The Nautical style only seems right for the bathroom— but it doesn’t have to be a literal interpretation of living under the sea. You can definitely try a modern spin, with brushed brass lighting, sink faucets, and vanity hardware. A floating vanity will make your bathroom space look bigger, and “floating” is definitely a term that evokes thoughts of the water. Another unique touch would be a transparent, freestanding bathtub and/or walk-in shower with a rainfall showerhead.
As for decor, you’ll definitely want to use a lot of blues and teals. If you’re going for a more modern look, focus on neutral colors (such as white) and save the blues and teals for accents.
Other Considerations: Feng Shui
Feng Shui is the practice of arranging your living space to be in harmony with the natural world. The idea is that Feng Shui promotes happiness, good health, mental clarity, and many more positive things. Whether you’re designing a custom cottage, a beach home, a cabin in the mountains, or a suburban home, here are some Feng Shui principles to keep in mind:
- Make sure your entryway is brightly lit and free of clutter
- Arrange living room furniture in a commanding position
- Keep your stove clean and use it at least once a day to keep the energy active
- Place your bed in a commanding position as well
- Keep all mirrors clean to ensure they reflect with clarity
- Add plants around the house
Wrapping Up
The possibilities are endless when it comes to designing and decorating your custom-built home. What makes it even more special is that you (and your family) are the only ones who have lived in the home, even if it’s just a vacation home that you visit periodically.
