Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky
Bringing Soul to a Blank Slate: Design Tips for New Builds
Posted on Oct 17, 2025 by dreeshomes
Posted on Oct 17, 2025 by dreeshomes
When you're building a brand-new home, there's nothing quite like the thrill of starting with a clean slate. But let's be honest: all that blank space can feel a little... intimidating. Where do you even begin? At Drees Homes, we believe your home should feel like you from the moment you walk in. That's why our Design Center is here to help you turn that fresh canvas into a cozy, character-filled space that tells your story, one thoughtful detail at a time.
The Design Center is where your vision comes to life. We offer a wide range of high-quality finishes from top manufacturers, so you can create a timeless space that reflects your personal style.
Alexa Drees, Director of our Midwest Design Centers, puts it best: “We start by getting to know you—your lifestyle, your vision and the little details that make a house feel like home.” From there, our certified Design Consultants help you bring that vision to life with personalized recommendations and creative ideas that make your home feel anything but cookie-cutter.
So how do you go from blank slate to beautiful? Alexa shares a few of her favorite ways to add instant charm and personality:
Layering is key to creating depth and personality in your home. Think bold tile backsplashes, inviting textiles and statement wallpaper. Alexa emphasizes the power of texture and pattern in transforming a space: “These thoughtful design elements express your unique style and personality, turning a house into a curated, lived-in sanctuary that feels entirely your own.”
Natural materials bring warmth, texture, and timeless beauty to a home. Elements like wood beams, stone tile, and granite countertops create a sense of authenticity and connection to the outdoors. Their organic imperfections and rich textures add depth and character. As Alexa says, “Mother Nature doesn’t make mistakes.” These materials not only elevate the design; they make a space feel grounded, welcoming and uniquely yours.
Moving into a new home can feel overwhelming, but built-ins offer an immediate opportunity to make the space your own. Custom built-ins are a great way to show off your personal photos, cherished mementos and meaningful keepsakes. They’re functional and full of character. "These thoughtful touches help transform a new build into a place that truly feels like home,” Alexa added.
Establishing flow starts with a clear design vision. In open concept homes, defining the look and feel of central spaces like the kitchen and main living areas sets the tone for the entire home. As Alexa explains, “We find that once a clear design concept is established for the main living spaces, the rest naturally falls into place.” With that foundation, our Design Consultants guide cohesive choices throughout the home, ensuring that every space feels connected and intentional.
Ultimately, your home should tell your story. Whether you're drawn to sleek modern lines, cozy cottage charm or an eclectic mix of styles, your space should reflect who you are and how you live. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way, helping you make confident choices that bring your vision to life. Because at the end of the day, great design isn’t just about how a home looks, it’s about how it feels to live in it.
From Instagram inspiration and Pinterest pins to your final floor plan, Drees makes it easy to bring it all together. We know your home is more than a dwelling. It’s an expression of who you are and what you value. Designing a custom home is a very personal endeavor, and we want to be here to help you every step of the way. To get started, contact Austin's New Home Specialist Amy Schmidt here.