Charm is in the details when it comes to home design. Often times it’s the details that hide in the background of your home that we rarely think about. If you feel like your home is lacking charm and character (like most modern American homes), today I put together three easy diy home decor ideas to get you started.
DIY Home Decor Ideas to Add Character and Charm
Elevating everyday items around the house is an easy way to help your home feel uniquely you. Try one of these ideas below and see how much it impacts your home!
1. Swap light switch plates & outlet covers.
Swap out those white plastic covers for something sophisticated. Light switch and outlet covers don’t have to be boring. It’s such a small, aesthetic detail in your home that packs a punch when it comes to adding charm and character. Standard plastic covers often look cheap or outdated. Try upgrading them to decorate metal like antique brass or copper, detailed modern wood, or even a floral print. If you want a sleek, modern look, opt for screwless plate covers that blend seamlessly into your walls. Here are a few favorite options:
1. Victorian Pink + Red // 2. Floral Brass // 3. Wooden Arch // 4. Antique Floral // 5. Black + White Brass // 6. Bistro Tile // 7. Antique Copper // 8. Green Rope Oval // 9. Radiant Walnut // 10. Navy Floral // 11. Squiggle Brass
2. Replace builder-basic light fixtures.
Lighting is one of the most transformative elements in a home, and it’s often overlooked. Most builder basic homes come with uninspired, cheap lighting. Swapping out those generic dome lights or basic chandeliers for statement fixtures can completely change the vibe of a room. Look for pieces that complement your style and fit your space. If replacing a fixture isn’t in the budget, consider spray-painting the existing one in a fresh metallic finish. Here are a few of my favorite semi flush mount light options:
1. Maddox Black // 2. Crawford, Aged Brass // 3. Tiered Fabric Drum // 4. Hudson Valley Black and Brass // 5. Gold Wave // 6. Seafarer Ribbed Glass // 7. ED Jane 3 Light // 8. Conical Drum, Brass and Fabric // 9. Young House Love Rough Edge Metal // 10. Altona Barebulb // 11. Champignon 5-Light // 12. Altona Barebulb, Wood // 13. Brass Argo // 14. Soft Ceramic Ceiling Light
3. Elevate your door knobs and handles.
I have a secret obsession with door knobs. A beautiful door knob is an instant way to welcome someone well into a room, in a subtle but impactful way. Try swapping out your old brass door hardware with something more charming and sophisticated.
For a more modern touch, opt for matte black metal. For a more historical look, opt for an ornate-style with a glass knob.
There are lots of details to consider: back plates vs. no plate, handles vs. knobs, locking vs. dummy handles.
Don’t forget about hinges and latches. You can mix-match metals, but try to stay consistent with your style (modern, antique, mid-century, etc.). If replacing everything isn’t in the budget, try rub-n-buff refinisher or spray-paint (made for metal) on your existing hardware to get you by.
Find a style you like and make sure it will function for your space. (And make sure they’ll look okay with the style of your door too!).
Exterior door hardware: Add a unique knocker or door ornament, along with a statement door handle and lock.
Here are a few options I loved:
1. Arched Brass Knob // 2. Ornate Egg & Dart // 3. Classic Rosette Waldorf // 4. Putman Classic // 5. Benson White Porcelain Mortise // 6. Brass Rosette // 7. Rope Rosette Crystal Door Knob // 8. Jerico Brass // 9. New York Door Knob // 10. Egg & Dart with White Porcelain // 11. Homestead New Work
DIY Home Decor Ideas to Add Charm: Summary
Elevating your every day takes intentionally. Adding charming details around your home gives it depth and character. The payoff is well worth it! Swapping out light switch and outlet covers, cheap light fixtures, and basic door knobs are great ways to start adding charm and character.
What other DIY home decor ideas would you add to this list? Comment below and let’s inspire each other!
For more lighting ideas, check out this post with 12 Neutral Flush-Mount lights to replace a boob light.
