12 new build bedroom ideas to transform your blank canvas

If you purchase a new build house, you’ll have a completely blank canvas. That means it’s up to you to add character and make it feel like home! Here are 12 new build bedroom ideas to help.

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Your bedroom is your sanctuary, so it’s important that it feels like yours and is teaming with personality. But that’s not always straightforward if you live in a new build! These 12 new build bedroom ideas will help you to transform your new space from a blank canvas into one that’s full of character.

1. Make it your sanctuary

New build bedrooms can often be boxy and uninviting – so, it’s up to you to make yours into a sanctuary that you can unwind in. Master bedrooms don’t get as much footfall as other rooms in your house, so you can really prioritise creating a warm and relaxing space. Think fluffy rugs, plush cushions, and warm throws like in this boho bedroom.

2. Consider warm colour ideas for new bedrooms

New build properties are typically decorated as safely as possible – which means you’ll usually see a lot of grey! Consider countering those cold tones with warmer bedroom colours – such as neutrals and saturated shades of brighter colours. This homeowner has combined beige walls with orange and peach accents to create an inviting and cosy bedroom.

3. Explore upcycled and vintage new build bedroom ideas

New builds are by definition short of old-world charm, but incorporating some older items can help you to add character and ground your space. This homeowner has opted for an upcycled dresser and vintage table lamps. By breathing new life into items that have some history, you can counter your new build’s harsh, clean lines with perfect imperfections.

4. Make a feature headboard integral to your new bedroom's ideas

Investing in a feature headboard can be a great way to give a boxy bedroom a clear focal point. This homeowner has made a statement with a rust-coloured velvet upholstered headboard and then chosen pictures and soft furnishings to complement it. We especially love it teamed with gold wall lamps and picture frames for a look that fits perfectly with the quiet luxury design trend.

5. Create a focal point with a feature wall

On the subject of focal points, a feature wall can be a fantastic way to give your bedroom design a clear direction. This monochrome bedroom boasts a black-and-white wallpaper accent wall, adding much-needed texture and depth to the space. Teamed with the grey padded headboard, wool throw, and plush carpet, it’s a modern look that’s oh-so-sophisticated.

6. Level up your bedroom furniture selection

When it comes to bedroom furniture, you can’t go wrong with a classic chest of drawers, wardrobe, and bedside tables. However, incorporating additional furniture can help to give your bedroom an added pop of personality – whether it’s a dressing table, small sofa, or blanket box. This homeowner has added two comfy seats and a side table to the foot of the bed to create a luxurious bedroom that wouldn’t be out of place in a hotel!

7. Add character with panelling

Wall panelling will help you to add texture and character to your new build’s blank walls. There are so many different styles to choose from, so you can really make sure it suits your tastes. This bedroom boasts simple board-and-batten MDF panelling at half height, painted a deep sea green – it’s the perfect mix between modern and traditional for a new build bedroom.

8. Dress the windows in your new build bedroom

One crucial way to make a new bedroom feel inviting is to dress the windows. Blinds and shutters can be great additions to a window, but adding curtains too will help you to soften the straight lines and harsh edges of your new build bedroom. This homeowner has opted for floaty Voile curtains as well as heavier thermal ones, to give this room added privacy and elegance.

9. Layer your lighting

No bedroom is complete without a versatile lighting design. New builds often come with lots of downlights, but you’ll want to layer these up with other softer options for relaxing in the evening. This homeowner has opted for stylish table lamps, but you could also add wall lights, feature pendant lights, and floor lamps to create the perfect ambience.

10. Add traditional details to your new build bedroom ideas

If you’re a fan of traditional details, why not add them to your new bedroom? You can get touches like picture rails and coving in contemporary versions that would look great in a new build. This teenager’s bedroom features a chair rail, which helps to add interest and divide the walls into aesthetically pleasing portions.

11. Fill your walls

Of course, your bedroom walls will continue to be a blank canvas until you fill them! Large pictures or paintings will help to give each wall an identity, like these oversized paintings that echo the colours in the cushions. Incorporating a mirror or two will also help to add new dimensions to boxy new build bedrooms.

12. Incorporate personal new build bedroom ideas

Last but not least, remember that your home is your castle and your bedroom should feel like you. Placing sentimental or personal objects around the room is a great shortcut to adding personality – whether it’s books, trinkets, photos, or even letters. This bedroom features a shelf above the bed, offering the perfect opportunity to fill it with objects you care about.

New build bedroom ideas key takeaways

Create a focal point with a striking headboard or bedroom feature wall
Balance out your new build bedroom’s straight lines and harsh angles with soft furnishings and window dressings
Use warm neutrals or saturated shades of bright colours to make your new bedroom feel cosy and inviting
Don’t forget to add personal touches including pictures and sentimental objects to make your new bedroom feel like home