Working out what works

Moving to a new home can be both exciting and challenging, especially when transitioning from a new build property to a larger grade 2 listed property. One of the notable differences is the change in ceiling height, which significantly impacts the layout and overall feel of the rooms. In this blog, we’ll explore how high ceilings influence the arrangement of furniture and the style of the house, while also discussing strategies to create a filled space without feeling cluttered.

Embracing the Height Advantage:

Moving into a new home with higher ceilings, such as the 4.5-metre ceilings in our home, offers unique opportunities for adding character and personal touches to the rooms. While filling space with large paintings or mirrors can quickly become overwhelming in rooms with standard ceiling heights, high ceilings provide a perfect canvas for incorporating these elements without overpowering the space. Additionally, properties with high ceilings tend to be either old, grand, period properties or modern houses, making them a rare and coveted find.

Expanding Your Footprint:

Alongside the increase in ceiling height, the larger overall footprint of our new property provides plenty of room for creative exploration. Having transitioned from a modest 85 square metre home to one that is closer to 130 square metres, we now have the opportunity to embrace the open space and fill it purposefully. While the initial sense of emptiness may feel unfamiliar, this can be used to your advantage by strategically filling the space while maintaining a balanced and visually pleasing atmosphere.

Balancing Furniture Layout and Style:

When moving from a smaller home to a larger one, it's essential to reassess your furniture layout and style choices to ensure they harmonise with the new property's character. Begin by taking inventory of your existing furniture and deciding which pieces will work best in the new space. While your previous furniture may have been suitable for your old home, you may find the need to acquire new pieces that align with the scale and style of your grade 2 listed property.

Creating a Filled Space without Clutter:

To overcome the challenge of a more substantial and potentially empty space, consider implementing the following strategies:

• Rugs and Furniture Placement: Utilise large rugs to anchor your furniture and create the illusion of a more filled space. For example, placing a 2x3 metre rug under your dining table can visually extend its presence. Additionally, consider adding extra chairs around the table to make it appear more purposeful and inviting.

• Tall Cabinets and Bookcases: Incorporate tall cabinets or bookcases along the walls to add vertical elements and provide both storage and display opportunities. These pieces not only fill open spaces but also draw the eye upward, making use of the high ceilings.

• Artwork and Wall Decor: Hang existing and new artwork strategically on the walls to serve as focal points and visually fill the vertical space. This will contribute to a sense of warmth and personalization within the rooms.

• Lighting Fixtures: Install well-placed lighting fixtures, such as chandeliers or pendant lights, to enhance the grandeur of high ceilings while creating a warm and inviting ambiance.

Moving from a new build home to a larger grade 2 listed new build property in Britain presents unique challenges, particularly regarding high ceilings and furniture layout. By embracing the advantages offered by higher ceilings, strategically placing furniture, incorporating vertical elements, and adding personal touches, you can create a filled space that complements the character of your new home. With careful planning and execution, your transition to a larger, more grandiose property will be an exciting journey that allows you to infuse a personal twist into the combination of modern and classic elements.