3 Ways to Infuse Character into Your Space

By Kristen Cuthbert

Interior design is all about making a space feel uniquely yours, reflecting your personality, tastes, and lifestyle. Whether you’re designing a new home or giving an existing one a makeover, infusing character into your space can elevate its atmosphere and make it feel like it truly belongs to YOU. Here are three impactful ways to inject character into your interiors:

1. Mix Vintage and Modern Elements

One of the best ways to add personality to a room is by blending old and new.

This fusion creates a dynamic tension that feels alive and thoughtfully curated. Vintage or antique furniture pieces often come with their own stories, and incorporating them into a more contemporary setting brings a sense of warmth and history. Consider using an antique wood table paired with sleek, modern chairs or incorporating retro lighting fixtures in a minimalist room.

This mix of styles avoids the “showroom” effect, giving the space a curated, lived-in vibe that feels distinctly personal. Refurbished furniture is also a great place to find pieces that are unique to you. Opting to choose a single piece from a showroom floor without its matching counterparts, and then supplementing with items sourced as above will only create interest and individuality in your space.

2. Play with Color, Texture and Placement

Color is one of the easiest ways to set the tone and inject character into a space. Opt for colors that resonate with you—whether it’s bold and dramatic or soft and subdued. Deep blues or emerald greens can create a rich, welcoming feel, while warm oranges and yellows can infuse energy and positivity. But it’s not just about color—texture plays a huge role too. Combine different materials like velvet cushions, leather chairs, woven rugs, and polished metals to create depth and interest. You can even have a monochromatic room with a lot of character simply by choosing items in a variety of textures. Additionally, try to avoid everything being symmetrical. Oftentimes, we try to balance a room perfectly and the result is something that looks too precious and lacks a genuine, lived-in atmosphere. Set your vase of flowers slightly off-center, purchase one end table and one floor lamp for either side of your couch and bring in layered lighting that is not all the same. This will help your interior feel like a dynamic space that is truly enjoyed.

3. Add Personal Touches

What truly makes a space stand out is the inclusion of items that have personal meaning. Whether it’s a collection of art pieces, family heirlooms, or travel souvenirs, these objects help tell your story and make your home feel one-of-a-kind. Less than perfect furniture tells a story of where it’s been and who it has served.

Don’t be afraid to hang artwork that moves you or to display books that reflect your interests. Even something as simple as incorporating a vase you’ve picked up on a memorable trip can serve as a reminder of your experiences and create a more intimate atmosphere. These personal touches add warmth and soul to your home, ensuring that no two rooms feel exactly the same.

Incorporating character into your space is all about authenticity—making choices that reflect who you are and what you love. By mixing vintage with modern, playing with color and texture, and adding personal elements, you can transform any room into a space that feels truly yours. The best part? These ideas are adaptable to any style, so whether you’re designing a cozy apartment or a sprawling house, there’s always room for personality to shine through.

*All photographs credit: Kristen Cuthbert

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