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Creating a home with soul in a newly constructed space requires more than just good design—it demands intention, artistry, and a deep appreciation for the details that make a house feel like it’s been lived in and loved for generations. At Britt Design Studio, we believe true beauty lies in the blend of old and new, where modern functionality meets timeworn charm. Through curated materials, bespoke finishes, and layers of texture, we infuse authenticity into fresh builds, ensuring they tell a story from day one. Because timeless design isn’t about age—it’s about character. That's why we are known for #redefiningtimeless.
New construction unfortunately has a reputation for feeling a little cold and for being uninteresting and dull. But needn't always be so. We work with many tradesmen here in New Jersey who value traditional design and help us create homes that evoke a nostalgic feeling, while also functionally supporting modern family life. Here are a few ways that we bring classic charm into new spaces.
#ProjectJustForKicks || Photo by Mike Van Tassel
Think Beyond Sheetrock
A somewhat recent invention, sheetrock is an inexpensive and speedy way to finish indoor walls, but it's definitely the least decorative. Instead, we like to incorporate wallpapers to bring an instant layer of color and pattern, and an overall sense of coziness to a space. Solid textures like grasscloth or sisal are a good option for bathing a room in a saturated shade giving it a jewel-box effect. Patterned papers work well in spaces where other decor is limited, like a dining room or powder bath. Bespoke millwork is another hallmark of historic structures, and we like tongue and groove or shiplap paneling for bringing in a slightly informal, cottage feel, and more elaborate wainscoting for elevated spaces. Beyond that, a lime wash or Roman clay treatment on the walls is a subtle way to add texture and dimension with a bit of a European vibe.
#ProjectHouseOnTheHill || Photo by Raquel Langworthy
Don't Forget the Ceiling
Now, take everything said above and apply it to the ceiling! Especially in a large room, a huge expanse of sheetrock ceiling is not only boring, but a missed opportunity to add an architectural and design element. However, we do like to practice some restraint, and either do a wall or ceiling treatment, rarely both. Tongue and groove or beadboard panels, coffers, or even wallpaper are all great options for adding dimension overhead.
#ProjectCobblersKids || Photo by Stylish Productions
Upgrade Your Windows & Doors
I'll say it. There is just no substitute for real wood windows and solid doors. Window styles are an important way to express the architectural style of a house, and they are an important investment in the overall quality of the home. Similarly, choosing solid doors elevates the interior spaces and helps set the tone for the look and feel of the spaces. As major decorative and functional elements of a house, it's worth it to get these elements right.
#ProjectHouseOnTheHill || Photo by Raquel Langworthy
Make Transitions Count
Often-overlooked spaces of the home, hallways, stairwells, and other transition areas are wonderful places to reinforce the home's style. Painted or stained paneling -- whether wainscoting, beadboard, or tongue and groove -- is actually a quite practical addition to a high-traffic spot as it wipes clean more easily than painted sheetrock. If space allows, adding art, sconce lighting, or even a small shelf niche improves the lines of sight through the house and makes charming additions to otherwise empty spaces.
#ProjectCobblersKids || Photo by Stylish Productions
Choose Living Finishes
Another place to establish your home's integrity is through material selection. Real materials like solid hardwood flooring, marble or soapstone tile or countertops, unlacquered brass or bronze hardware, and natural fabrics like linen, cotton, or wool not only feel better than their manufactured counterparts, but they age more gracefully, too. Each of us will have a different threshold for the patina that will inevitably happen over time so we can always talk about less-scary ways to incorporate them. If small kids eat at the kitchen island several times each day, we'll save the marble for the master bath and choose a good lookalike for the kitchen instead. Or, select a beautiful linen curtain and a more durable Crypton sofa for the living room. But, the addition of natural materials always brings instant charm.
To hear more about our process or chat about your upcoming project, get in touch by filling out our design inquiry.
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