How to Maximise Character in a New-Build Home: A Q&A with Abode Interior Design at North Gate Park

Designing a new-build home doesn’t mean sacrificing personality. With the right interior design approach, a blank canvas can become a warm, character-filled space that feels instantly liveable.

Last weekend, we launched our beautifully styled 2-bedroom Show Apartment at North Gate Park, created in partnership with Abode Interior Design. Now open for viewings, the apartment demonstrates how thoughtful design choices around colour, texture, light and layout can transform a new build into a truly inspiring home.

To explore the design thinking behind the space, we sat down with Sally Watson, Director of Client Relations at Abode Interior Design, to discuss the inspiration, key trends, and expert styling tips for buyers looking to personalise their own new-build apartment.

Designing a New-Build Show Home with Longevity in Mind

What was the main inspiration behind the overall design concept for this show apartment?

“The main inspiration was to appeal to a young, design-led target market who also seek longevity in their interior choices. With this in mind, the palette was decided: a classic, rich velvet brown paired with a fresh, vibrant lemon sorbet.”

This carefully chosen colour palette forms the backbone of the apartment’s design. It balances timeless tones with energising accents, creating a space that feels both contemporary and comfortable, ideal for modern city living.

Interior Design Tips to Maximise Space in a New-Build Apartment

How did you use interior design to maximise space and create a sense of openness?

“To maximise space, it’s important not to over-clutter and to choose pieces which have purpose. Keeping layouts simple is calming and instantly makes a space feel open.”

In compact urban apartments, purposeful furniture and uncluttered layouts are key. Every piece in the show apartment has been carefully selected to enhance flow, making the home feel airy, practical and effortlessly stylish.

Making the Most of Natural Light in a New-Build Home

How did you work with the natural light in this property?

“We kept curtains, fabrics and wall coverings light in texture and colour. It’s important to accent the light with contrast, which we’ve introduced through dark wood furniture and soft furnishings.”

By pairing light finishes with deeper tones, the apartment achieves depth and warmth without blocking natural light , a simple yet effective approach buyers can replicate in their own homes.

Why New-Build Homes Are the Perfect Blank Canvas

Do you approach designing a new build differently from an older property?

“The biggest opportunity with a new-build apartment is the blank canvas. You can commit to a specific design style without having to work around awkward finishes.”

New-build homes offer clarity and creative freedom. Rather than removing layers of the past, character can be introduced from the outset through colour, texture and furniture choices that reflect personal style.

The Creative Reward of Designing New-Build Homes

Do you enjoy working with new builds? What makes them rewarding?

“The most rewarding part is creating a totally unique design for every project. Collaborating with clients and tailoring each interior is everything a creative mind aspires to.”

This bespoke approach ensures no two spaces feel the same, even within the same development.

How Local Area Influences Interior Design

How much does the local community influence your design?

“The local area is a huge influence. Supporting local is at our core, and local details help buyers imagine life beyond the interior.”

Subtle styling elements from locally inspired accessories to lifestyle-led details help buyers connect emotionally with both the apartment and the surrounding neighbourhood.

Designing for Different London Neighbourhoods

Would your design approach change in different parts of London?

“Absolutely. Buyers choose areas that resonate with who they are. Embracing the vibe of the area is one of the first considerations in the design process.”

For North Gate Park, the design reflects N15’s community feel, combining calm interiors with contemporary details, while remaining well-connected to the city.

Helping Buyers Visualise Everyday Living

Which rooms did you focus on to help buyers imagine living here?

“Each room was designed with purpose while making a creative statement. The open-plan living and dining area offers a social yet peaceful space, achieved through a supersized sofa, zonal rug and classic contemporary palette.”

Zoning is key in open-plan layouts, helping buyers envision how the space adapts to different moments, from entertaining to relaxing.

Interior Design Trends Featured in the Show Apartment

Were there any key design trends you wanted to showcase?

“The colour palette was central, along with darker wood furniture, which is a growing trend and works beautifully in this apartment.”

These trend-aware elements feel current without being short-lived, offering buyers inspiration that will stand the test of time.

Creating a Warm, Inviting Show Home Experience

How do you hope visitors feel when they walk through the finished show apartment?

“We aimed to create an exciting, contemporary interior. We hope visitors feel warmth while being inspired by interesting design and styling ideas.”

Bringing Character to a New-Build Home

As Sally’s insights show, new-build homes don’t have to feel generic. With thoughtful use of colour, texture, layout and locally inspired details, even a blank canvas can be transformed into a home full of warmth, individuality and character.

The North Gate Park 2-Bedroom Show Apartment is now open for viewings and offers plenty of interior inspiration for buyers considering a new-build home in North London.

Get in touch today to book your viewing and experience the show apartment for yourself.