Our Blog

Robert Smith Robert Smith

New Year, Fresh Vision: Saying Goodbye to 2025 and Hello to 2026

As we flip the calendar to 2026, the design world is undergoing a long-awaited shift. For years, "safe" choices like cool grays and stark white-on-white minimalism reigned supreme. But as we settle into this new year, the trend of sterile, "Pinterest-perfect" houses is officially taking a backseat to something much more exciting: Personality.

In 2026, we are saying a final goodbye to the "soulless" aesthetic and moving toward homes that feel curated, grounded, and deeply personal. At Fresh Start Designs, we’ve been anticipating this shift for months. From the rise of "Color Drenching" to the return of handcrafted "Quiet Luxury," this year is all about authenticity and intention.

Whether you’re looking to trade your cold, open-concept layout for purposeful "living zones" or you’re ready to embrace the moody jewel tones of the "Heritage Revival," the 2026 trends are all about making your home a true sanctuary. Join us as we break down the top 5 anticipated trends that will define home remodeling this year—and how you can get your project into the construction queue before the spring rush.

Read More
Robert Smith Robert Smith

The Gift of Planning: Why the Holiday Season is the Perfect Time to Design Your Dream Remodel

The tree is lit, the first snow might be falling, and your home is filled with the warmth, scents, and hustle of the holiday season. It's a magical time, but it’s also a time of intense reflection: As you welcome family and friends, you inevitably see your home through their eyes.

You notice exactly where the kitchen is too small for cookie decorating, where you need more space for the growing family, or how that awkward layout makes holiday entertaining a logistical puzzle.

Read More
Robert Smith Robert Smith

Beat the Spring Rush: Why Fall is the Perfect Time to Start Designing Your Home Remodel

As the days grow shorter, the leaves turn brilliant gold, and we instinctively retreat indoors, something shifts in our perspective: we become acutely aware of our homes. That cramped kitchen, the outdated layout, or the space you wish you had for holiday guests suddenly feels urgent.

If you’re dreaming of a beautiful home remodel, renovation, or addition project to launch next spring, here’s the single most important piece of advice you’ll receive: The best time to start is not in January—it's right now, this November.

Read More
Robert Smith Robert Smith

How to Plan a Bathroom Remodel

Planning a bathroom remodel starts with assessing your needs and setting a clear budget. Begin by identifying the key changes you want—whether it’s updating fixtures, reconfiguring the layout, or adding storage. Research materials and finishes that balance style with durability. Consider energy-efficient options to reduce long-term costs. Hire experienced professionals to ensure quality workmanship and adherence to local codes. Create a realistic timeline and plan for disruptions during construction. A well-planned remodel enhances functionality and increases your home’s value while reflecting your personal style.

Read More
Robert Smith Robert Smith

Top 5 Kitchen Remodeling Trends for Fall 2025

Discover the Top 5 Kitchen Remodeling Trends for Fall 2025 in the Philadelphia suburbs. From sleek, multifunctional cabinetry to sustainable materials and smart technology integration, this blog post highlights the latest styles transforming homes in the region. Whether you’re planning a full remodel or a simple update, explore ideas that combine functionality with contemporary design to create a kitchen that’s both beautiful and tailored to your lifestyle. Stay ahead of the curve with insights from Fresh Start Designs, your trusted partner in custom home renovations.

Read More
Robert Smith Robert Smith

Reviving Your Home: Top Trends and Tips for Starting Your Design Journey.

Discover how to transform your outdated home with Fresh Start Designs, led by Robert Smith with over 30 years of expertise. This 2025, embrace trends like sustainable materials and smart systems popular in upscale areas like Bryn Mawr and Gladwyne, while starting your journey with a site assessment and concept sketches. Preserve your home’s historic charm—think 18th-century stone facades with modern layouts— and contact us at www.freshstartdesignsco.com or 610-624-2164 to begin. #ReviveYourHome #PhillySuburbs

Read More