We all know that large costly renovations and extensions and new bathroom and kitchen increase the value of your investment property but you can also add value through effective interior design which doesn’t cost nearly as much. If you have done a full refurb spending a little more doing the finishing touches with definitely be worth your while. Professional interior design will make your home more appealing, driving more interest to the property, increasing premium rents and improving the overall value of your property.
But what are the most effective interior design ways to elevate your property ?
Highlight the properties character
Accentuating these existing architectural structures of a Victorian/ Edwardian/ grade listed buildings will definitely boost the value of the property. Restoring period pieces like fire places, staircases and or highlighting unique features such as, arched doorways with decorative tiles or a different paint colour/wall paper or lighting will champion the property’s character.
If you don’t have any main architectural elements then why not consider creating structural interest such as installing cornicing, wall moulding/ panelling, permanent seating areas, or simply give this illusion with paint techniques / textured wall paper. Also remember your design should complement the architecture of the property and tenant profile.
Space
The feeling of space can be just as important as the actual footprint when it comes to adding value to a house. You don’t always need to extend, sometimes the layout can simply be rearranged to maximize the space. Reconsider the layout of putting all the furniture up against the wall, I find floating the furniture towards the centre of the room is a better option.
Open plan is another way to make interiors feel even more expansive by dissolving the boundaries between rooms, the space becomes more accessible and more inviting. Painting the ceiling the same colour as the walls, blurs the lines and makes the room feel instantly larger. Providing plenty of storage reduces clutter. Use materials like glass /mirrors to open up the space.
Go Classic
Valuers may find it hard to place a figure on the increase in value made by only cosmetic improvements, but the market will always place a premium on an attractively decorated and well- styled property. Opt for classic, chic and simplistic designs that will never go out of style. Overall, stick to clean lines and minimal fuss. Select a neutral colour palette that is both soothing and inviting. Subtle surroundings mean that bolder and dynamic colours and patterns can be used in furnishing choices
Neutral tones give a more intimate and richer feel, painting is one of the cheapest and impactful ways to add value to your home. Calming colours, such as beige, light grey, or a warm white take the attention away from the walls and redirect it to the openness and flow of a property.
Upgrade Your Lighting
I have left the best to last…. Another way to make any place appear spacious is by installing layers of lighting. While designing, you should ensure that plenty of natural light is flowing into the property. Add a skylight, increase the size of windows and doors with glass windows to ensure that light can enter all corners of the property.
Artificial lights is just as essential for boosting low levels of light especially at night. Lighting is one of the most important aspect of design and will elevated your home like another. Replace outdated light fixtures with statement lights that add the wow factor and add value to the property. Install dimmer switches to create a cosy and inviting atmosphere, but don’t forget the smaller details like light switches, use beautiful chrome or brass switches/plug sockets to add a luxury feel to your interiors.
The benefits of incorporating these into your project, will outweigh your initial spend by increasing tenant appeal and attaining premuim rents.
SP
