The sterile 'white-cube' apartments that are springing up in urban areas across the UK and beyond have been dubbed a "design nightmare" by homeowners, who feel they offer little more than a blank canvas. Behind this trend lies a stark economic reality: rising land costs and construction prices mean developers must build smaller and more affordable units to stay afloat.
According to Dr Shanaka Herath, a senior lecturer at the University of Technology Sydney's school of built environment, the economics driving this trend are straightforward: "We know that land costs have been rising, construction costs have been rising, so what the builders do is that they build smaller and more affordable units." For homeowners, this means starting from scratch with a space that is far from inspiring.
But as artist Ben Mazey's experience shows, even the most basic of apartments can be transformed into a unique space. Mazey repainted his walk-in wardrobe in a vibrant pistachio green, creating a distinct zone separate from his main bedroom: "Paint's straightforward, not that expensive and can absolutely transform a space."
One of the easiest ways to inject personality into a new-build is through paint. But it's not just about slapping on a bold colour – even subtle changes can make a big impact. For example, upgrading door handles, architraves or cornices can significantly alter the perceived character of a room without breaking the bank.
Soft furnishings also play a crucial role in making new-builds feel like home. Designer and artist Cat Yenn used gingham fabric to create curtains for her fridge nook and exposed shelves in her Sydney studio apartment, introducing "softness and warmth" into the space and helping to visually divide it from the rest of the open-plan area.
Furniture selection and arrangement are just as important. Jono Fleming, a designer and stylist, suggests using two identical sideboards together in an open-plan area as a cost-effective alternative to bespoke joinery: "It looks really good" and provides essential styling and storage space, making a room feel "more grounded, intentional and elongated."
Ultimately, curating personal items on open shelves – such as books, magazines, or art – allows residents to tell their own story within a generic framework. By incorporating these small touches, homeowners can turn even the blandest new-build into a truly unique space that reflects their personality.