9 Living Room Trends That Stick Around In Pennsylvania Suburbs
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Living rooms in Pennsylvania suburbs have a distinctive style that combines comfort, tradition, and modern touches. Over the years, certain design elements have proven their staying power in these cozy northeastern homes.
From furniture choices that withstand both harsh winters and family gatherings to color palettes that reflect the region’s natural beauty, these enduring trends define Pennsylvania suburban living rooms.
1. Stone Fireplace Centerpieces
Nothing beats gathering around a gorgeous stone fireplace during those long Pennsylvania winters. Local homeowners consistently choose natural fieldstone or river rock surrounds that echo the state’s rugged landscapes.
Many families incorporate mantels made from reclaimed barn wood, honoring Pennsylvania’s rich agricultural heritage. I’ve noticed these fireplaces aren’t just for show – they’re functional focal points that provide warmth and create natural gathering spaces for family game nights and holiday celebrations.
2. Heritage-Inspired Wood Flooring
Hardwood floors remain the gold standard in Pennsylvania suburban homes, with oak and maple leading the pack. The preference leans toward medium-toned finishes that hide dust from outdoor activities while adding warmth to spaces.
Wide-plank styles have gained tremendous popularity, reminiscent of historic Pennsylvania homes and farmhouses. My clients often choose hand-scraped or distressed finishes that stand up beautifully to kids, pets, and the salt tracked in during snowy months.
3. Comfortable Sectional Arrangements
Family-friendly sectional sofas dominate Pennsylvania living rooms year after year. Performance fabrics in neutral tones (think soft grays, warm taupes, and creamy whites) allow for easy redecorating while standing up to real family life.
Extra-deep seating and chaise extensions create perfect spots for weekend movie marathons during those snowy winters. My Pennsylvania clients consistently prioritize comfort over trendy but impractical furniture, often investing in quality pieces they’ll keep for decades rather than following fleeting styles.
4. Gallery Walls With Local Flair
Gallery walls showcasing Pennsylvania state pride have serious staying power in suburban homes. Framed prints of local landmarks like Fallingwater, Philadelphia’s skyline, or Amish countryside create personal connections to place.
Family photos mixed with local artists’ work add personality while supporting the community’s creative scene. My favorite gallery walls incorporate vintage maps of Pennsylvania towns, university memorabilia (Penn State, Pitt, and Villanova are popular), and seasonal landscape photography that celebrates the state’s four distinct seasons.
5. Rustic Industrial Accent Pieces
Pennsylvania’s rich industrial history influences living room décor through metal and wood combinations that feel both rustic and refined. Coffee tables with reclaimed wood tops and iron bases reference the state’s steel heritage while providing practical surfaces.
Factory-inspired lighting fixtures cast warm glows over conversation areas. Homeowners incorporate subtle nods to Pennsylvania’s manufacturing past with vintage tools, repurposed factory carts as side tables, or framed blueprints from historic steel mills or coal mines – creating visual interest with authentic local character.
6. Four-Season Indoor Plants
Houseplants thrive as permanent fixtures in Pennsylvania living rooms, bringing nature indoors during long winters. Fiddle leaf figs, pothos, and snake plants add life to corners year-round.
Many homeowners create seasonal rotations – forcing paperwhite bulbs in winter, displaying flowering branches in spring, and bringing in potted herbs during summer. I’ve watched clients incorporate vintage crocks from local potteries as planters, connecting to Pennsylvania’s ceramic manufacturing tradition while housing their green friends in style.
7. Amish-Crafted Furniture Pieces
Handcrafted Amish furniture represents quality and tradition that Pennsylvania homeowners proudly display. Solid cherry, oak, and maple pieces from Lancaster County workshops become family heirlooms passed through generations.
Mission-style side tables, rocking chairs, and entertainment centers showcase exceptional craftsmanship. The clean lines and honest construction of these pieces complement both traditional and contemporary décor. My clients appreciate supporting local craftspeople while investing in furniture built to last for decades – a true Pennsylvania value of quality over quantity.
8. Seasonal Textile Rotations
Changing textiles with the seasons remains a beloved Pennsylvania living room tradition. Cozy wool throws and plaid pillows appear for fall and winter, while lighter linens and botanical prints emerge for spring and summer.
Many homeowners collect quilts from local craftspeople or family members, displaying them as both functional items and wall art. I’ve helped clients create storage systems for their textile collections, allowing easy swaps that refresh living spaces without major renovations. This practical approach to decorating reflects Pennsylvania’s sensible, budget-conscious design ethos.
9. Multipurpose Room Layouts
Pennsylvania suburban homes embrace practical living room layouts that accommodate multiple activities. Game tables tucked into bay windows serve for family game nights, homework sessions, and casual dining.
Built-in bookcases house collections while defining separate zones for reading, TV watching, and conversation. The trend toward multipurpose spaces accelerated recently, but Pennsylvania homeowners have long valued rooms that work hard for families. I recommend furniture arrangements that create natural pathways between activity zones while maintaining the cozy atmosphere these homes are known for.