New home, fresh start: the ultimate interior checklist

Whether you're moving out on your own for the first time or taking the step to upsize or downsize: moving is stressful, chaotic and hectic. Arguments with your partner over that ugly wardrobe they insist on taking, the glass coffee table that slides down the stairs, or stepping on a nail — it all comes with the territory.
That's why we decided it was time to help you out, at least when it comes to your interior.

In this article we walk through everything you need to think about when moving, focusing on your interior. That way you'll be well prepared before moving day, and you won't forget a thing for your new home. And you can download this checklist when you sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of the article.

Why use a checklist?

A good start is half the battle — and that's especially true when moving. But where do you begin? With proper preparation, of course. Thinking ahead about what needs to happen saves you a lot of stress.

A checklist also helps you save money. It gives you a clear picture of what you actually need, prevents duplicate purchases, and saves last-minute trips to the hardware store.

In short: peace of mind — and a home you're actually happy with.

Common mistakes when decorating a new home

Moving is often a rollercoaster: you just want everything sorted as quickly as possible. But in that rush, a lot of (costly) mistakes get made. Here are the most common ones — so you can avoid them:

Buying furniture too quickly

It seems logical to order a new sofa or dining table right away, but it's often too soon. You need to get a feel for the space first: how does the acoustics work, where does the light fall, where do you actually want to sit? Many people buy something they love on impulse, only to realise a few weeks later that it doesn't suit how they actually use the room.

Ignoring natural light

Daylight has an enormous impact on atmosphere, colour and function. Without testing how sunlight enters at different times of day, you risk making the wrong choices for window treatments, lighting or even wall colours.

No consistent colour or style plan

Pinterest is full of inspiration, but without a concrete colour palette or style guide your home can quickly become a jumble. A mix of unrelated styles feels unsettled. Tip: choose one dominant style (e.g. Scandinavian, Japandi or industrial) and build around it. Add at most one accent style.

Neglecting finishing touches (like decorative mouldings)

Finishing touches are what separate "just moved in" from "actually done". Think clean transitions between walls and ceilings, attractive skirting boards or subtle decorative mouldings. These details add character to your interior and create a more premium look — without any major renovation work.

Work in phases

Your home doesn't need to be Pinterest-perfect within a single weekend. In fact, working in phases leads to better decisions and prevents regret over impulse purchases.

Start with the basics: furniture, lighting, window treatments and storage. Then layer in atmosphere: wall decoration, plants, textiles, scents and of course finishing touches like our flexlijsten (wink wink), skirting boards and details like mirrors.

This way you build a stylish, functional and personal home step by step. Take your time — Rome wasn't built in a day either.

Not wanting to do everything at once

It's understandable that you want to settle in as quickly as possible, but forcing yourself to decide everything at once usually leads to chaos (and wasted money). Focus first on what's functionally necessary: where do you sleep, where do you sit, how do you cook?

Functionality first, atmosphere second

Think in layers. Start with a solid foundation: lighting, furniture, window treatments and storage. Then add atmosphere with wall decoration, plants, textiles, scents and yes — finishing touches like mouldings or skirting boards. This creates calm and space for personal choices, one step at a time.

General & planning

A good start really is half the battle. In this phase you map out your living wishes, set a budget and create a moodboard or style guide. Also important: measure everything! Nothing is more frustrating than furniture that barely fits or a door that won't open.

• Budget per room

• Style choice (colour palette, materials, atmosphere)

• Measurements of rooms, windows and doors

• Planning of deliveries and installations

Living room

The space where you unwind, receive guests and spend most of your time. Think carefully about the layout and the atmosphere you want to create. Lighting, window treatments and finishing details make all the difference here.

• Flooring choice and protection

• Window treatments and light control

• Lighting (ambient, mood, functional)

• Furniture: sofa, coffee table, storage unit, TV unit

• Decorative mouldings, skirting boards and wall/ceiling finishes
  
  

Kitchen

Whether you're inheriting a kitchen or fitting one yourself, the setup requires smart choices. Think about sufficient storage, logical work flow and materials that suit your style.

• Kitchen appliances and layout

• Wall and floor finishes

• Storage options: drawers, cabinets, shelves

• Under-cabinet lighting

• Consistency in colour and materials
  
  

Bedroom

Your bedroom is your recharge station. Here it's all about comfort, calm and smart layout. Make sure there's enough storage and a soothing colour palette.

• Bed and mattress (dimensions, quality)

• Blackout window treatments

• Wardrobe or storage system

• Bedside lights / mood lighting

• Colour, textiles and personal accents

Bathroom

Small but mighty: the bathroom deserves just as much attention as the rest of your home. Practical and stylish can absolutely go hand in hand.

• Mirrors (right height and size)

• Sufficient storage

• Wall and floor materials (waterproof and attractive)

• Mirror lighting

• Accessories for atmosphere and practicality

Hallway & corridors

The hallway is the first thing you see when you come home and the last before you leave. Often overlooked, but it's actually where a little effort goes a long way.

• Coat rack or wall hooks

• Shoe rack or cabinet

• Lighting and mirror

• Atmospheric elements (colours, scent, decoration)

• Wall finishes and any decorative mouldings

Ready to get started?

Moving doesn't have to be chaos. With the right preparation (and a practical checklist) you'll stay on top of things, make better decisions and avoid costly mistakes. Whether you've just received the keys or are already in the thick of moving stress: this interior checklist helps you turn your new house into a real home, one step at a time.

Whether you're still in the planning phase or already unpacking boxes: this list gives you calm, overview and control.

🧭 General & Planning

Budget set per room

Style choice (colour palette, materials, atmosphere, etc.)

Measurements taken for all walls, windows, doors, ceiling height

Moodboard or style guide created

Deliveries and installations scheduled

DIY schedule drawn up (when to paint, lay floors, etc.)

Priority list made: what first, what can wait?

🛋 Living room

Flooring chosen and laid

Window treatments hung

Ambient lighting installed (ceiling light, spots)

Mood lighting added (table lamps, dimmers)

Furniture chosen: sofa, coffee table, TV unit, storage

Accessories added (cushions, art, plants, wall decoration)

Decorative mouldings

🍳 Kitchen

Kitchen appliances installed (oven, fridge, hob)

Logical work triangle (cooking – washing – cooling) set up

Storage options in place (cabinets, drawers, shelves)

Under-cabinet lighting fitted

Floor and walls finished (e.g. tiling)

Consistency of materials and colours checked

🛏 Bedroom

Bed in place (right size, good mattress)

Bedside tables and/or bedside lighting added

Blackout curtains

Wardrobe or clothes storage in place

Colours and textiles chosen for calm and comfort

Wall decoration or personal accents added

🚿 Bathroom

Mirror hung at the right height

Storage options (cabinets, shelves)

Towels

Bath mats

Floor and walls finished with waterproof materials

Lighting above mirror and on ceiling

Accessories added (towel hooks, soap dispenser, scent)

💻 Home office

Desk

Ergonomic office chair in place

Good lighting (natural light + desk lamp)

Power sockets and cable management sorted

Laptop stand or monitor at eye level

Storage in place (filing cabinet, wall shelf, archive box)

Quiet zone with wall panels for example

Decoration with calming elements (plants, art, colour)

🚪 Hallway & Corridors

Coat rack or wall hooks

Shoe cabinet or rack in place

Mirror hung for leaving and arriving

Lighting for both atmosphere and safety

Decorative elements (colours, scent, wall finishes)

Decorative mouldings or other wall decoration

Conclusion

That's it! You're now better prepared than 90% of people who move. This checklist doesn't just help you make practical decisions — it also helps you think more consciously about style, finishing touches and atmosphere in your new home.

Remember: a home is never "finished in one go". Give yourself the space to build an interior that truly suits you, one phase at a time.

Print this page and use the checklist to go into your move fully prepared.