If you’re looking to add some older-home charm to your newer St. Louis home, or maybe you’re just on the lookout for some diverting DIY projects to liven things up a little. Whatever the case, there are quite a few ways St. Louis homeowners can boost the character of (and in) their homes. Here are some of our favorites to consider:

Spice Up Your Walls

If you really want to transform a room, the walls are the perfect place to start. There is a plethora of exciting options — from adding mirrors to painting murals to designing a gallery wall — there’s no shortage of great ideas. The internet is a terrific place for inspiration, so do some poking around. A common favorite for homeowners is beadboard wainscoting. Adding these wooden panels to the lower part of your walls can instantly add an interesting aesthetic element and make the room feel cozier. You can paint them (or not paint them) depending on what you’re going for. And don’t discount Wallpaper when you’re brainstorming, it’s come a long way from Grandma’s kitchen. There are limitless options out there these days, and you’re sure to find the perfect complement to your room. From subdued to wild prints and from neutral to impossibly bold colors, it’s sure to add the character you desire.

Update Your Hardware

Many times, it’s the smaller details that give a home character. One of those smaller details that homeowners should consider updating is their hardware — drawer pulls, doorknobs, and cabinet handles. You can find some terrific well-patinated vintage pieces at flea markets, thrift stores or online. And, of course, there are thousands of new options, too. You may not think that hardware replacement will make a big impact, but they will, and they’re a fantastic way to add some additional character to your home.

Refresh Your Cabinets

If your kitchen or bathrooms have wooden cabinets, a fresh coat of paint might be all they need to make the rooms more interesting. A pop of bold color can be a fun way to liven up both rooms, while more neutral colors are also a nice choice. Refreshed cabinets, coupled with the new hardware I just mentioned, will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a new kitchen.

Focus on the Entryway

The entryway is your guests and (your) introduction to the home. It makes the first impression and can communicate charm better than almost any other area of the house. It’s a space you likely use every day, and maybe multiple times each day. Depending on the space you’re working with, consider adding things like mirrors, rugs, a bench, a coat rack, and artwork to enhance the space and make it feel more welcoming.

Highlight Wooden Pieces

Wood communicates character in almost every instance. Incorporating some natural wooden furniture in your space is a great way to elevate the charm. If you really want to maximize the effect, head to some thrift stores or flea markets to find antique pieces with beautiful, artisanal details.

It’s not difficult or expensive to add more character to your home. These tips should provide some inspiration.

If you’d like to talk more about adding character to your home, or if there’s another matter I can be of assistance with, please reach out. I’m always happy to help.