When going anywhere in the UAE, especially the fashionable, trendy city of Dubai, you can expect construction as far as the eye can see. And with so many people from all around the world migrating to the country’s most popular emirates, it only makes sense that so many residential developments are popping up all over the place.

However, this makes the life of a real estate developer all the more difficult, as they need to compete against other properties for the attention of buyers and investors. This can prove nearly impossible when all the developments offer homes in similar designs and with identical amenities and services.

With this in mind, it’s more important than ever before for property developers to utilise fit out and interior design trends to their advantage and set their residential buildings apart from others. The best way to do this is to provide your new build home with something that contemporary living spaces lack – character.

Modern apartments and houses are void of the distinct characteristics and warmth that makes their traditional counterparts feel like a proper home. Fortunately, there are ways to ensure that the residences of today emulate the same charm as those of yesteryear.

Here are 11 tips and tricks that real estate developers can use to add character to their new build homes.

1. Incorporate panelling

The last thing you want is for your space to fall flat. Avoid this by livening up your new build homes by incorporating panelling into the design. It’s an easy and effective way to instantly add texture to blank walls.

2. Build a faux fireplace 

It might be silly to have a fireplace in a country that is in the middle of the desert, but you have to admit, nothing exudes comfort and cosiness quite like a hearth – after all, there’s a reason it’s referred to as the heart of the home.

But since we are in the UAE, it might be better to build a faux fireplace instead. Yes, that’s right, you can install minimalist fireplaces that work with electric fire and an oversized mantel overhead to add the perfect focal point to your new build homes.

3. Decorate with wallpaper murals and wall decals

Not too long ago, wallpaper was considered tacky and cheap with no interior designer worth their salt going near the decorative solution. Now, however, it seems the wall covering has made a strong comeback and is on everyone’s design plan.

Wallpaper murals and wall decals are an easy way to add beautiful patterns, styles and art to your new build homes without the commitment and expense of paint.

4. Layer the lighting 

A common theme you’ll notice across almost all our blogs is the emphasis we put on lighting. The way you choose to light your residential offerings can make or break the space.

For new builds, in particular, it is highly suggested that you layer the lighting and provide future residents with softer options to suit different atmospheres. From downlights and pendant lamps to wall scones, tables and floor lamps, fill the homes with as many options as possible.

5. Install built-ins

Besides adding character to a home, installing built-in cupboards offers more storage space – something that apartments and small homes sorely lack. This will certainly make you popular with potential buyers, as well as provide the charm of an older home.

Built-ins can be added to any room, but try to target the living room, office or kitchen for the best impact.

6. Dress the windows 

No one wants bare windows – ever! Add in shutters over every window to provide yet another appealing reason for buyers to choose your new build home over the next developer’s.

7. Install picture shelves

Floating shelves are the hot new trend in home décor. Being both functional and aesthetically pleasing makes it the perfect addition to any residence. This also removes the hassle and time that comes with knocking nails into the wall – something future residents will definitely take note of.

8. Choose unique furniture 

A lot of the charm and character of a home lies in the furniture we choose to fill the space. If you’re offering a furniture package with your new build home, then you’ll want to avoid ‘run-of-the-mill’ styles and designs. Aim for sharp, original and unique pieces, such as wooden or rattan chairs, accent furniture, velvet elements and stylish towel ladders.

Better yet, find a joinery professional who can create bespoke furniture pieces for your new build homes that are unlike anything anyone has seen before.

9. Consider creating a ceiling rose

If you want to add a truly striking and stunning feature to your development units, then consider making a ceiling rose the focal point of one of the rooms in the house, preferably the living or dining area.

10. Dark coloured walls are in 

In a time where everyone is going for light, neutral colours, dare to stand out by making the bold and striking decision to go dark.

The trick is to not paint every wall a dark shade – as it will make your home look smaller – but to target alcoves, feature walls and hallways instead.

11. Use natural materials wherever possible 

Our final tip of the day is to use natural materials in your new build home wherever possible. Sustainability and going green is more than just a mere fashion statement – it’s a new way of life. So, make sure your development embraces it as much as it can. Plus, it adds a lot more character to the home.

How can Contractors.Direct help?

Remember, in the end, it’ll be the little things that sway a buyer to purchase your new build home. The above list of tips and tricks are a great way to add character to a modern apartment or house that lacks the charm of more traditional homes. But you’ll need the help of a professional interior designer and fit out contractor who possesses the necessary skills and experience to deliver high-quality work.

Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place.

Contractors.Direct offers a curated database of thoroughly vetted, quality contractors, interior designers and interior architects who can bring your vision to life, on time and on budget. Get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to connect you with the right people for the job.