Meet the Designer: Sara Tuttle

Company: Sara Tuttle Interiors, Arlington, Virginia

Hometown: Durham, North Carolina

My trademark is... Vibrant interiors that are simultaneously sophisticated and energetic.

Right now I'm loving... Paul McCobb chairs (search ebay.com or lstdibs.com) and almost anything from Swank Lighting (swanklighting.com/lamps/vintage-murano).

Southern style is... In the South, people's homes tell a story of their past and of their family. Antiques and heirlooms are important to Southerners and always part of the way they live.

Go-to paint color: I'm currently in love with white—it's fresh, modern, and works with every style. These days, my favorite white is SK4 by Fine Paints of Europe (finepaintsofeurope.com).

Every Southern home should have... At least one modern piece.

What to DIY: Simple details, such as adding trim to readymade curtains for a custom look

What not to DIY: Electrical work!