Minimalist, Maximalist, or Somewhere In Between? Here’s What Your Home Style Says About You in Southern New England

You can learn a lot about someone by spending ten minutes in their home.

Some spaces are spare and serene—everything has a purpose, and nothing is extra. Others are layered and lively, filled with books, plants, and the kind of objects that make you ask, “Where’d you find that?” In Southern New England, you might see this reflected in homes from the coastal towns of Rhode Island to the charming neighborhoods of Southeast Massachusetts.

Most people fall somewhere in the middle. A little tidy, a little chaotic. Some corners look straight out of a magazine; others, not so much. And that’s the point—your space reflects how you live, what you care about, and what makes you feel at ease.

It’s not about good or bad taste. It’s about personality.

Let’s take a look at a few common styles—and what they might be saying about you.

The Minimalist

Your space is calm, clear, and intentional.

If someone had to describe your home in one word, it would probably be “peaceful.” You gravitate toward neutral colors, clean lines, and open surfaces. There’s not a lot of visual noise—and that’s on purpose.

Your style says: You like order. You’re sensitive to clutter. You’d rather have a few things you love than a lot of things you like. Home, for you, is a place to reset.

When it comes to hosting, you’re more likely to light a candle and open a bottle of wine than throw a themed dinner party. You’re low-key. You think better when your environment is quiet. Your living room likely has a favorite chair—and it’s probably the one no one else is allowed to sit in. In towns like Barrington or Westport, this minimalist approach can make your home feel like a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle.

The Maximalist

Your space is expressive, layered, and full of stories.

If your walls could talk, they’d have a lot to say. Maybe there’s artwork you picked up on a trip, or mismatched bookshelves overflowing with novels and old photo albums. Your home feels lived-in—and in the best way.

Your style says: You care more about meaning than minimalism. You surround yourself with things that make you feel something, whether that’s color, texture, or memories. You like a little bit of chaos—as long as it’s your kind.

Hosting for you probably includes a playlist, a new recipe, and a little bit of last-minute cleanup. You’re generous with your space. Your home feels like an extension of who you are. In cities like Providence or New Bedford, this style can create a warm, inviting atmosphere that welcomes friends and family alike.

Somewhere In Between

Your space is cozy, functional, and always evolving.

You appreciate aesthetics, but you’re not trying to win design awards. You want your space to work—for mornings, for movie nights, for laundry days. Maybe you’ve got a few things you splurged on and a few things you’ve had forever. It’s not curated, exactly—but it’s yours.

Your style says: You like things to feel nice, but also real. You’re not into extremes. You’ll try a trend if it fits, but you’re not chasing them. Your home has changed as your life has changed, and you’re okay with that.

You probably rotate pillows seasonally. You know which drawer the batteries are in. You’ve thought about painting the hallway but haven’t gotten around to it yet. You care—but not too much. And that’s why people feel comfortable when they walk in. In places like Mystic or Bristol, this balanced approach can create a welcoming environment that feels both stylish and lived-in.

Style ≠ Staging (And That’s Okay)

If you’re thinking about selling—even down the road—it’s worth knowing that the way you live in a home and the way you sell it aren’t always the same.

That doesn’t mean you need to hide your style or pack everything up. It just means making small changes that help a buyer see the space clearly. Sometimes that means removing distractions. Other times it means highlighting the parts that already feel good—like the natural light or the way the rooms flow together. In Southern New England, where homes often have unique architectural features, showcasing these elements can make a significant difference.

Curious how your style shows up in your space—or what buyers might see?

We’re happy to take a look and offer some honest feedback. Whether you're planning a move or just thinking ahead, sometimes it helps to get a fresh set of eyes on your space.

If You’re Staying Put...

Then this is just a thoughtful way to look at your space a little differently. Our homes reflect us in ways we don’t always notice. Paying attention to those details can help you appreciate where you live, and why it feels like home.

And if a move is on your radar down the line, it’s never too early to start noticing what’s working—and what might need a little more attention. In the diverse neighborhoods of Southern New England, understanding your style can help you make informed decisions about your next steps, whether that’s a renovation or a relocation.