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Tag: interior design tips

How to Find Your Interior Design Style
Your home is your sanctuary—a place that reflects your personality, lifestyle, and what makes you happy. Figuring out your interior design style is the first step to creating a space that feels truly yours. But with so many styles out there, it can be tough to know where to begin.

Whether you like clean, minimalist spaces, bold boho designs, or the classic charm of traditional decor, the key to finding your interior style isn’t about strict rules—it’s about discovering what feels right for you. This blog will help you explore popular design styles, identify your preferences, and combine elements to create a home you’ll love.

A Guide to Interior Design Styles

Before choosing your ideal style, it helps to understand the key features of popular interior design trends. Each style has a unique mix of furniture, colors, materials, and decor elements that make it stand out.

Transitional Design

Transitional design blends traditional elegance with a contemporary touch. It includes curved furniture, clean lines, and versatile materials like wood, steel, and lacquer. Accessories are kept minimal for a balanced look.

Traditional Design

Traditional design is all about timeless sophistication. It features dark wood furniture, rich fabrics like silk and velvet, and ornate details inspired by 18th and 19th-century English and French styles. Symmetry and grandeur are key elements.

Minimalist Design

Minimalist design, inspired by the Japanese mantra “less is more,” emphasizes clean lines, simple shapes, and neutral color schemes. Furniture is functional, often with hidden storage, to create a tidy and uncluttered space.

Scandinavian Style

Scandinavian design focuses on light, airy spaces with cozy touches. It features white walls, light woods, soft pastels, and simple, functional furniture. It embodies the concept of “hygge,” or cozy living.

Mid-Century Modern

Mid-century modern design is known for its sleek, retro-inspired furniture and vibrant colors. It often includes rich woods like teak and bold textiles, perfect for fans of clean lines and vintage charm.

Bohemian

Bohemian (boho) style is vibrant and eclectic, combining bold patterns, bright colors, and natural materials like rattan and bamboo. The focus is on layering textures and elements to create a relaxed, lived-in feel.

These are just a few popular styles, with many others like art deco, industrial, coastal, and modern farmhouse. Explore them to find the one—or mix—that speaks to you.

Understanding Your Preferences and Lifestyle

Interior design is more than just how things look; it’s about creating a space that works for your life. Here’s how to figure out what suits you best.

1. Discover What Inspires You

Pay attention to the furniture, artwork, and spaces you love. Save images on Pinterest or Instagram, or create a mood board to gather your favorite styles and designs.

2. Spot the Patterns

Look through your saved inspiration and notice any common themes. Do you prefer clean, modern designs or cozy, layered textures? Are you drawn to neutral colors or bold, vibrant accents? Recognizing these patterns will help you identify your style.

3. Consider Your Lifestyle

Think about how you use your space:
- Host frequent gatherings? Go for open layouts and durable furniture.
- Decorating a small space? Choose multi-functional furniture with storage.
- Have kids or pets? Pick stain-resistant and low-maintenance materials.
Your home should make your life easier, not harder.

4. Choose Colors and Materials You Love

Do you prefer bright, airy spaces or dark, cozy ones? Are you drawn to sleek metals like chrome, or do you prefer rustic materials like reclaimed wood? Knowing your preferences will help you focus on a design style that feels right for you.

5. Try a Quiz

Still unsure? Online quizzes, like the Designer Society of America’s Interior Design Style quiz can be a quick and fun way to pinpoint the aesthetic that suits you.

6. Follow Your Instincts

At the end of the day, your style is about what makes you happy. Don’t be afraid to break the rules or mix different styles if it feels true to you.

Combining Styles to Match Your Personality

Love more than one design style? No problem! Mixing styles can create a unique look that reflects who you are. Here’s how to do it without overwhelming your space:

Start with a Main Style

Pick one dominant style to set the tone for your space. This will act as your foundation. For example, you might love the simplicity of Scandinavian design but want to bring in bold Bohemian accents.

Add Contrasting Elements

Incorporate elements from other styles to add variety. For instance, pair mid-century modern furniture with industrial lighting, or add traditional moldings to a minimalist space.

Keep It Cohesive

To avoid a cluttered look, stick to a consistent color palette or material theme. Neutrals and natural materials can help tie everything together.

Create Balance

Make sure every style choice feels intentional. For example, an industrial coffee table can complement softer, modern furniture if the proportions are balanced.

Resources for Further Inspiration and Guidance

Finding your interior design style is a creative process that takes time, but there are tools and resources that can help along the way.
- Social Media: Follow designers and influencers on Instagram or explore themed mood boards on Pinterest for inspiration.
- Showrooms and Stores: Visit furniture stores, home décor shops, or model homes to see different styles and textures in person.
- Mood Boards: Create a collection of pictures, swatches, and design elements that you like. Use tools like Canva or go old-school with a physical board.
- Work with a Designer: Still unsure? A session with an interior designer can give you valuable insights to define your style.
Make Your Home Uniquely You

Your interior design style is an expression of your personality, preferences, and the life you want to create. Whether you’re drawn to modern simplicity, bohemian creativity, or a mix of styles, the goal is to design a space that resonates with you.

Don’t rush the process! Take your time exploring, experimenting, and finding pieces that you love. After all, the best homes aren’t just beautiful; they tell a story.

Ready to start fresh in a new home? S&A Homes builds new home communities throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. Learn more about new home opportunities, including quick move-in homes and build on your land opportunities, by calling 1-855-SAHOME1 or visiting us online at SAHomeBuilder.com.
May 20, 2025
Sweet Dreams: A Guide to Refreshing Your Bedroom

Your bedroom should be a sanctuary, a place to relax and recharge. But if it feels more like a dated dorm room than a serene retreat, it might be time for a refresh. Ready to breathe new life into your bedroom without breaking the bank? We’ve got you covered. Here are some tips for refreshing your bedroom so you can create a cozy and inviting retreat that reflects your style.

Budgeting for a Bedroom Refresh

Setting a Realistic Budget

First things first, determine how much you’re willing to spend. Review your finances and set a budget that won’t strain your wallet. Remember, a bedroom makeover doesn’t have to be expensive to be effective. Break down the total amount into categories like furniture, decor, and paint, so you know exactly where your money will go.

Prioritizing Your Spending

Once you have a budget, prioritize the elements that make the biggest impact. Sometimes, something as simple as new bedding can change the whole look and feel of a room. Decide what’s most important to you—whether it’s a new mattress for better sleep or a fresh coat of paint for a more modern look—and allocate funds accordingly.

Quick Wins for a Bedroom Makeover

Declutter and deep clean

The first step in refreshing any space is to declutter. Go through your belongings and get rid of anything you no longer need or use. This will make your room look cleaner and more organized and make it easier to see what items you already have that can be repurposed or used differently.

After decluttering, take the time to give your bedroom a thorough cleaning. Remove clutter, dust surfaces, vacuum floors, and wash bedding to create a fresh canvas for your updates. A clean space will instantly feel more inviting and relaxing.

Rearrange furniture

Another way to refresh your bedroom without spending money is to rearrange your furniture layout. Try moving your bed to a different wall or swapping out nightstands for a new look. You’d be surprised at how much of a difference a new furniture layout can make in transforming the vibe of your room.

Update your bedding

A quick way to give your bedroom an instant facelift is by updating bedding and accessories. Swap out old throw pillows for new ones in different colors or patterns, invest in a cozy duvet cover, or add a plush area rug for added comfort underfoot. Look for sales or clearance items to save money on high-quality bedding. These small changes can make a big impact on the overall look and feel of your room.

Add greenery

Plants are an affordable way to bring life and color into your bedroom. Consider adding potted plants or fresh flowers to brighten up the space and improve air quality. If you don’t have a green thumb, there are plenty of low-maintenance options available that require minimal care. Not only do plants add visual interest, but they also have mood-boosting benefits that can enhance your overall well-being.

Update your lighting

Lighting can make or break a room’s ambiance. Swap out old, outdated fixtures for modern ones that offer better illumination and style. Dimmable light fixtures can help set the mood for relaxation at night while providing task lighting during the day. You can find affordable lighting options at thrift stores or discount retailers.

Personalize with artwork

Infuse personality into your bedroom by hanging artwork or photographs that speak to you. Whether it’s a gallery wall of family photos or an abstract painting that inspires you, art can add color and character to your space. Mix and match frames for an eclectic look or choose pieces that complement each other for a cohesive design.

Treat yourself to new accessories

Finally, treat yourself to some new accessories that will elevate the look of your bedroom. Consider adding a stylish area rug, decorative mirrors, or statement curtains to tie everything together. Small details like knobs on dressers or drawer pulls can also make a big difference in refreshing the overall aesthetic of the room.

Tips for Sustainable Bedroom Refreshes

Recycling Old Furniture

Before you toss out that old dresser, consider giving it a new life. A fresh coat of paint or new hardware can make an old piece feel brand new. Repurposing existing items not only saves money but also reduces waste.

Choosing Sustainable Materials

Opt for eco-friendly materials whenever possible. Bamboo, reclaimed wood, and organic textiles are great choices. These materials not only look good but also have a smaller environmental footprint.

Shopping Second-Hand

Thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces are treasure troves for unique finds. You can often score high-quality items at a fraction of the cost, all while being kind to the planet.

Refreshing your bedroom doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. By implementing some simple tips and tricks, you can transform your space into a cozy retreat that reflects your individual style and personality. Whether you’re working with a tight budget or have some extra cash to spare, these ideas are sure to help you create a refreshed bedroom that feels like home sweet home every time you walk through the door.

Build new with S&A Homes

S&A Homes offers a variety of new home communities and floorplans in the most sought-after locations in Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. To learn more about the available home designs and quick move-in homes, call 1-855-SAHome1 or visit SAHomeBuilder.com.

July 23, 2024
The Benefits of Rearranging Your Furniture

Have you ever found yourself getting bored with your room’s layout? Maybe you’re looking for ways to revamp your living space without breaking the bank. Or maybe you’re just in the mood to switch things up a bit. Whatever your reason may be, rearranging your room can be a powerful tool to refresh your living space.

In fact, research has found that rearranging furniture can have positive effects on our mental and emotional well-being. Here are seven reasons why rearranging your room can be mentally and physically beneficial.

Boost your creativity

If you’ve ever hit a creative block, rearranging your room can be the perfect remedy. When you rearrange furniture and décor, you see things from a different perspective. This change in perspective helps stimulate new ideas, bring about a change in energy, and boost creativity.

Increase productivity

A well-organized living space can help increase productivity. Understanding where everything is and how to navigate your living space efficiently can make it easier to get things done. When you move things around, you learn new ways to organize your space which can ultimately make you more productive.

Enhance your mood

The state of your physical space can have a direct impact on your mood. Rearranging your room can provide an instant mood boost, allowing you to feel refreshed and reinvigorated. It’s essential to create a space that helps you feel comfortable, especially with all the extra time we are spending at home.

Improve quality of sleep

The quality of sleep we experience is essential for our overall physical and mental health. Your bed placement, for instance, could have an impact on how well you sleep. Consider moving your bed to different areas of the room for an improved sleep experience. Making changes to your surroundings can create a more relaxing environment and improve your sleep habits.

Encourage positive change

Changing your living space can help encourage positive change in other areas of your life. If you want to develop better habits or create new ones, rearranging your space can inspire you to begin making those changes.

Save money

Rearranging your room doesn’t need to involve extensive home renovation or buying new furniture. With just a little bit of creativity, you can create a new look by rearranging your existing furniture or decor. Instead of buying new items, you can work with what you have to create a new and interesting living space.

Improve social interactions

Did you know rearranging your living space can improve social interaction? Hosting friends and family in a different space can create a new atmosphere and dynamic. It can also help explore social circles with new seating arrangements or activity spaces.

Rearranging your room can make you feel refreshed and renew your outlook on daily living. By making small changes, you can have a significant impact on your mood, style, and overall home decor. Take some time to assess your current living space, examine how best to improve its functionality, and have fun creating your own unique layout.

New homes by S&A Homes

Rearranging your room is a great way to update your home to better fit your needs. However, if you simply need a new home, give us a call. S&A Homes is proud to build affordable new home communities throughout Central and South-Central Pennsylvania. Visit us at SAHomebuilder.com or call 1-855-SAHome1 to learn about our available homes and our Build on Your Own Land program.

November 28, 2023
Designing a Nursery You’ll Love

As a new parent, designing a nursery can be an intimidating task. There are many things to consider and decisions to make like color schemes, furniture selection, and safety concerns. To help make the process easier, we’ve outlined some tips and tricks that you can use to create a nursery that is both inviting and practical for everyday use.

Plan the layout and furniture

The first step in designing any room is determining the size of the space you have to work with. Measure the square footage of the room and decide on the type of layout you would like to have in the nursery. The nursery should be sectioned into zones for sleeping, nursing, changing, and playing so you can easily take care of the baby. Find the best placement for the essential furniture like the crib, changing table, and rocking chair you’ll use for nursing based on the available space. Here are some layout options if you need some ideas.

When it comes to planning what furniture to include in the nursery, size matters. Make sure whatever furniture you choose will fit in the room comfortably with enough room left over for your little one to explore. Don’t feel pressured to buy new or baby-specific furniture. You can get creative and use furniture your child can grow into so it doesn’t need to be replaced as they grow.

Choose colors, fabrics, and accessories

Now it’s time for the fun part: choosing colors, fabrics, and accessories! Try not to overload with too much color or too many patterns – this can make the space feel overwhelming. Go for a simple but stylish look to create an inviting atmosphere while still being practical. Bed linens are also important when creating a safe sleeping environment for your baby. Look for organic materials that are soft and cozy yet breathable such as cotton muslin or jersey knit sheets.

Adding wall decorations helps bring life into the nursery while still keeping a calm atmosphere. Think about hanging artwork such as prints or framed photographs of family members that can become part of special memories later on in life with your little one.

Lighting options

The nursery’s primary purpose is for sleeping. It’ll be important to control the light and noise in the space. Blackout shades will reduce light and make it easier for your little one to sleep during the day and thick pile rugs and drapes can dampen the noise from around the house.

In addition, you’ll need adequate lighting in the room. Layer overhead lights with task lighting to provide bright illumination during diaper changes but also a cozy ambiance during nighttime feedings or lullabies.

Pillows and toy in white wooden crib with pastel pink blanket in bright nursery

Storage solutions

Storage solutions are essential for any nursery design plan because they provide easy access to all of the baby’s essentials without taking up too much space. Look for storage options that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing; shelves with decorative baskets or drawers with colorful knobs can add character while still providing ample storage space for toys or clothing items.

Safety considerations

When designing your nursery, it is important to consider potential hazards such as electrical outlets or sharp edges on furniture pieces. Make sure that all electrical outlets are covered and all furniture pieces are securely attached to walls or floors (if necessary). Keep any small items away from curious little hands by using secure storage solutions or hiding them in cabinets or drawers with childproof locks.

Designing a nursery doesn’t have to be stressful; by following our tips and tricks outlined above you should have no trouble creating a warm, inviting atmosphere with plenty of practical storage solutions thrown into the mix too.

Whether you’re looking for more space to grow your family or need extra room for a new arrival, we hope you’ll consider us. S&A Homes offers a variety of new home communities and floorplans in the most sought-after locations in Pennsylvania. We can also build your dream home on your own land! For more details, visit us at SAHomebuilder.com.

February 7, 2023
Create a Guest Room that Feels Like Home

Staying at someone else’s home can be a bit unsettling sometimes. Therefore, as a host, it is important to create a guest room your visitors can feel completely at ease in. At S&A Homes, our floor plans are designed with areas that can be easily transformed into inviting guest rooms.

Now that you have a space in place for your overnight guests, here are a few interior design and hosting tips essential for creating a guest room that feels like home: (more…)

September 23, 2020
Sherwin-Williams Announces 2021 ColorMix Forecast

As we approach fourth quarter, the S&A Homes team is already looking ahead to the home trends forecasted for the upcoming year. Recently, Sherwin-Williams revealed its 2021 ColorMix Forecast showcasing a brand-new collection of over 40 unique paint colors.

With the overarching theme being “Rhythm of Color,” this collection of colors is separated into four distinct palettes each offering a beautiful and meaningful combination of shades. (more…)

September 17, 2020
Interior Design Trends Post-Pandemic

There’s no denying that the ongoing COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic has altered the way we live our lives, especially within our own homes. After months spent quarantining, working remotely and spending time inside, you’ve likely recognized several things that are now necessary for everyday life in this new normal, and you may have even noticed a few things that you would like to change about your existing home. (more…)

August 21, 2020
Incorporate the Sherwin Williams Color of The Month Year-Round

While it may be the end of the month, the Sherwin Williams July 2020 Color of the Month is here to stay! Touch of Sand (SW 9085) offers a warm and refreshing alternative to gray. The sandy beige shade has a beachy feel that is perfect for summer, but also a warm neutral look that is great year-round. (more…)

July 29, 2020
The Best Flooring for Your Lifestyle

There is plenty to consider when choosing flooring for your new home. In addition to adding style, flooring also offers a functional aspect that should reflect the way you live. When selecting flooring for your home, be sure to ask yourself questions about your household. (more…)

February 27, 2020
Implementing Modern Color Styling in Your New S&A Home

Trends come and go, and vintage style is making a comeback when it comes to styling homes! Deemed “modern color styling” when originally published in 1935, an archived Lowes Brothers Paints and Varnishes article highlights many style points that are growing in popularity in today’s homes and color schemes. (more…)

October 8, 2019