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    At Kelly Clarksons House, Its Christmas Every Day (in One Designated Room)
    Mariah Carey may want to hold onto her Queen of Christmas crown a little tighter. On a recent episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show, the Since U Been Gone singer revealed that she has an entire Christmas room in her New York City home that stays decorated year-round.Clarkson, who took her talk show with her when she moved from Los Angeles to Manhattan in 2023, explained during a recent interview with Here actor Robin Wright that her new pad near Central Park has more space than she knows what to do with. One room in particular had the mom of two stumped.I decorated it the first year for Christmas. And then I was like, That was a lot of work. Well just shut the doors until [next] Christmas, Clarkson told Wright with a laugh. The Grammy winner doesnt let all that holiday cheer go to waste, though: We literally will go in there and dance throughout the year and just put Christmas songs on, she said, referencing impromptu holiday jam sessions with her eight- and 10-year-old kids.Outside of her dedicated room, it seems the Underneath the Tree singer is already in the full Christmas swing for this year. For me, November first is the marker, she reasoned with the Forrest Gump star, Because you spend so much time decorating. That sentiment is shared by Carey, who for the past five years has released increasingly elaborate videos on November first to ring in the yuletide season, announcing that its tiiiiiiiiime. Of course, Clarkson gives credit where credit is due: When Mariah came out with her first Christmas record, she changed the game for all of us, Clarkson said in a recent statement to the New York Times.The American Idol winner, who recently dropped a deluxe version of one of her two Christmas albums, plus a new remix feature on Chers DJ Play a Christmas Song, will return for the second year in a row to host NBCs Rockefeller Center tree-lighting ceremony on December 4.Register TodayAD PRO's 2025 Interior Design Forecast is almost hereArrowAs for Carey, she recently embarked on her Christmas Time tour, which will conclude in New York on December 17. Shes also celebrating the 30th anniversary of Merry Christmas, the album that established her as the Queen of Christmas in the first place. Its something that I look forward to all year, Carey told NYT of her feelings around the holiday. Maybe people think its something that I put on, but its really my favorite time of year.
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    7 Best Weighted Blankets for Deep Sleep: Tested and Reviewed
    The rule of thumb is to pick a blanket around 10% of your body weight. Therefore, a 120-pound person should look for a 12-pound blanket, a 150-pound person a 15-pound blanket, and so on. (If your weight falls in between blanket sizes, go with the lighter one). Its all a matter of personal preference, of course, but this formula should give you a blanket that feels just right. (With children, however, take this rule literally. If the blanket is too heavy for them, they could struggle to get out from under it, as can pets.)MaterialsWeighted blanket cover materials range from classic cotton and cooling bamboo to luxurious velvet and warming fleece, and a number of blankets feature a dual-sided design to make use of two fabrics. Similar to how you shop for bed sheets, consider how these different materials can support your personal preferences and overall comfort.Another material to consider is the fill of the weighted blanket. Some feature glass or plastic beads, often within a quilted design, that distribute the weight of the blanket fairly evenly but can also make a bit of noise as you move around. Others are filled with fabrics and other fibers for a quieter experience. Meanwhile, knit-exclusive designs that resemble a cozy sweater are woven with heavier fabrics to achieve an even weight distribution.SizeWeighted blanket sizes range dramatically and tend to lack the standardization we've come to know and appreciate when shopping for mattresses and other bedding. Be sure to review the dimensions of a weighted blanket before purchasing so you have a clear understanding of how it will lay across your bed or sofa.Care InstructionsSome weighted blankets feature machine-washable removable covers that make a weekly refresh a breeze while others list dry cleaning as the preferred care method. Consider what level of maintenance works for your lifestyle when looking for the best weighted blanket for your home.Trial Periods and WarrantiesSimilar to your bed frame and mattress, quality bedding and sleep accessories are investments, and we like to help you make smart ones. Pay close attention to trial period lengths with weighted blankets, as some brands let you try them out for 100 nights risk free. Similarly, some weighted blankets can come with warranties of up to five years and protect against product defects.FAQsWhat is the best kind of weighted blanket?Based on our research, testing and reviews, we recommend the seven weighted blankets in our list based on a wide range of user preferences. For someone who enjoys the look and feel of a cable knit sweater, an option like Brooklyn Bedding's Chunky Knit Weighted Blanket is likely the best kind of weighted blanket. Meanwhile, someone who prefers a luxe, quilted vibe should consider a style like Saatva's Velvet Weighted Blanket.Is it bad if your weighted blanket is too heavy?There's a reason experts use the aforementioned 10% rule when it comes to weighted blankets. Using a weighted blanket that's too heavy can be problematic in a few ways, leading to overheating, joint and muscle pain, and general discomfort that disrupts rest rather than promoting it.Is it okay to sleep with a weighted blanket every night?Generally, weighted blankets are considered safe for nightly snoozing so long as they're sized appropriately for your body weight and don't seem to lead to any discomfort. But when in doubt, it never hurts to check in with your health care provider.
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    Tour an Elegant Island Retreat in the Pacific Northwest
    The project deadline was eight months. Even in the most favorable of times, with ideal conditions, completing an entire home renovation on this timeline can be difficult. But what about the renovation of two homes in eight months? Such was the brief for Seattle-based design and architecture firm Hoedemaker Pfeiffer, tasked with renovating a dated, 5,500-square-foot house in need of a full aesthetic refresh, and its counterpart, a 3,500-square-foot farmhouse, with a tight turnaround. The clients had a party planned for the spring, says firm partner and AD PRO Directory member Steve Hoedemaker. They said, We have 30 people coming, we need this done on time.What might have been a daunting task to many was an exciting challenge for the design team. Normally, a project like this would take 24 months, Hoedemaker says. The expedited timeline made it necessary for us, the contractors [Krekow Jennings], and the landscape architect [Ken Philip] to create a cohesive, shared vision from the start. We ended up speaking a shorthand where everyone was able to take a little bit of information and make all the right choices.A place for gathering, the great room in the main house features an elevated palette of earth tones. Architecture and design firm Hoedemaker Pfeiffer plastered over an existing stone fireplace to create a contemporary focal point for the room. A mix of furniturevintage lounge chairs, a Roman and Williams Guild daybed and sofa, and two Phantom Hands upholstered armchairsprovides a seating option for every mood. An Umbo Inc. pendant made from Kozo paper serves as a functional work of art.Located on an island off the coast of Washington, the 25-acre lot offered privacy coupled with unimpeded water views. When we moved to the Pacific Northwest over 30 years ago, we fell in love with this area, say the homeowners, who wanted to see the beauty of the region reflected in their weekend home and a place to host many guests. The San Juan Islands are the quintessential northwest environment, with the forests, the sea, and the mountains.According to firm partner Tim Pfeiffer and the clients themselves, their city residence skews modern, but the island project required a different approach. I would characterize this home as more traditional and appropriate to its rural environment, the client continues, noting that they value context over any particular style. [We wanted] better scale and proportion to the rooms, more refined details and finishesall balanced by an aesthetic leaning toward a more comfortable and casual lifestyle on the island.Formerly a glassed-in porch, the current sunroom is just off the kitchen. A vintage Oushak rug keeps things cozy underfoot, and the velvet-upholstered Roman and Williams Guild Davenport sofa reflects the natural mossy greens of the surrounding property. Two A. Rudin swivel chairs provide a relaxed setting for a tte--tte.The main home and farmhouse had undergone a succession of renovations over the decadesthe former was built in the 1990s, while the latter dates back more than 100 years. We wanted to maintain the original character of the farmhouse, the client explains, so its remodel was more focused on interior finishes and comfort. The primary residence, which sits on a bluff overlooking the water, was dark and dated with a confusing layout that didnt flow in an intuitive way. The window heights were low, the scale of the rooms was bizarre, and there were a lot of weird asymmetries throughout, recalls Hoedemaker.Most PopularAD-it-Yourself31 Charming Farmhouse Living Room Ideas to Gather RoundBy Sarah LyonShopping7 Best Floor Lamps to Brighten Your Space in 2024By Nora TaylorArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyWorking within the houses existing confines, the Hoedemaker Pfeiffer team streamlined the interiorsevening out asymmetries, adding new windows to bring in more natural light and tweaking the layout to accommodate the homeowners wish for a larger kitchen. They also revamped the exterior with vertical wood cladding and the decidedly Northwest touch of a cedar-shake shingle roof. We created a new ridgeline inside so that it would center up on the fireplace in the living room, Pfeiffer says.The only items the homeowners brought with them were a few pieces of silver that were family heirlooms, so the palettelight wood, textured upholstery, patterned wallpaper in neutral tonesevolved from scratch. The only requirements were no leather, and lots of vintage rugs. We wanted to reflect what was outside the home, but bring in additional depth and sophistication using rich tones like cognac, smokey blue, and shades of green, says Peak Petersen, a principal at Hoedemaker Pfeiffer. At one of our first big meetings, we had a selection of fabrics and tiles to show the clients, and when they walked in, the outfit she was wearing matched the fabrics. We knew we were on the right track.The most important room for the culinarily inclined clients was the kitchen. One of their first requests to Hoedemaker Pfeiffer was more square footage in this room, as well as an oversized butcher block cutting board at the end of the island. To make it elegant yet functional, the firm countered the wood cabinetry with Kelly Forslunds Gregorious Pineo woven wall covering. A white shiplap ceiling leans into the farmhouse aesthetic, and the island countertop is a bold Prunella marble. Above the island, a trio of Urban Electric pendants bring an industrial edge.Most PopularAD-it-Yourself31 Charming Farmhouse Living Room Ideas to Gather RoundBy Sarah LyonShopping7 Best Floor Lamps to Brighten Your Space in 2024By Nora TaylorArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyBacked by a wall of built-in shelving, the dining room in the main house features a custom table by San Francisco craftsman Andrew Woodside Carter. Tucked along each side is a row of Jean De Merry Home House Co-op cerused oak chairs upholstered in a wool blend from Pollock. The painting on the wall is by Seattle artist Sarah Norsworthy, purchased through Studio E Gallery.In the great room, furniture by contemporary designers like India Mahdavi and Roman and Williams mix with vintage pieces that give the space a comfortable, lived-in feeling. Here, the design team plastered over the existing fireplace, to improve the look, with the least amount of demolition, Hoedemaker says, and installed a large cedar beam across the ceiling to bring a sense of balance. The kitchen, where the family requested an oversized butcher block cutting board at the end of the island, is a highly functional space with plenty of built-ins and elegant details such as a Prunella marble worktop and zellige tile backsplash.The original kitchen had all of these tiny, ancient appliances, says Petersen. We took over an adjacent living space to allow for the expansion and turned a glassed-in porch into a sitting area. A wood-burning stove at one end of the sunroom captures the bucolic island vibe, while a green velvet upholstered sofa upscales the space. Bedrooms were kept neutral, with little nods to a classic camp vibeplaid textiles, wood bed frames, striped linenswithout veering into overplayed motifs. In the study, where the couple enjoys knocking out some work or reading together during the day, angular furniture and sharp lines lean into a stately aesthetic, softened by jute wall coverings and a woven sisal rug.Most PopularAD-it-Yourself31 Charming Farmhouse Living Room Ideas to Gather RoundBy Sarah LyonShopping7 Best Floor Lamps to Brighten Your Space in 2024By Nora TaylorArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyOnce a modest farmhouse, this guest quarters dates back more than a century. The design team leaned into its history by incorporating vintage-inspired details such as beadboard, unlacquered brass hardware, and wall paneling, while keeping furniture and art on the contemporary side.Just a stones throw away, the farmhouse feels slightly more eclectic, layered as it is with poppier colors and bolder art. A space meant for guests, its kitchen centers on a vintage Swedish farm table paired with French oak chairsa cozy gathering spot for morning coffee. Bedrooms, once again, have earthy base tones, brightened with white-painted ceilings. Beadboard and wall paneling throughout create a cohesive backdrop for the rustic details, such as unlacquered brass hardware. The farmhouse is a little sweeter than the main house, says Petersen. We embraced its original charm and kept things a bit more relaxed.Dubbed the snug, and used as guest accommodations, one of the propertys original structures remains, dating back more than 100 years. In the living room, a Marija Kori armless sofa provides a bohemian vibe, its colors playing off the tones in Johanna Christiansons oil painting hanging above it. A hand-braided jute rug from RH adds texture, while two pieces from Housewrightthe central ottoman and the Habala armchairadd a sleek finish.Most PopularAD-it-Yourself31 Charming Farmhouse Living Room Ideas to Gather RoundBy Sarah LyonShopping7 Best Floor Lamps to Brighten Your Space in 2024By Nora TaylorArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyFor the clients, the farmhouse is the perfect accompaniment to their main residence, where, they say, they truly use each and every space in the home. We have favorite rooms for each part of the day, they note. Morning coffee and evening tea in the sunroom off the beautiful kitchen, with the morning sun as well as the afternoon sun streaming in. The study to work, sit, and read in during the day, the great room to gather in the evenings with a roaring fire going. Each of these rooms has been so thoughtfully curated to feel inviting, cozy, and comfortable all at the same time.Renovated in just eight months, this homelocated on an island off of Washingtonis a weekend escape for a city-dwelling couple who love to entertain. Set on a 25-acre lot overlooking sweeping water views, the house started with a confusing, cramped layout and was transformed into a warm and welcoming space for the clients, their family, and friends.In the primary bedroom, a Pierre Frey wall covering, purchased through Jennifer West Showroom, brings a subtle, geometric backdrop to the Dmitriy & Co. bed frame, above which hangs a vintage Belgian painting. The seven-drawer Bicyclette dresser is made with oak and black walnut.Most PopularAD-it-Yourself31 Charming Farmhouse Living Room Ideas to Gather RoundBy Sarah LyonShopping7 Best Floor Lamps to Brighten Your Space in 2024By Nora TaylorArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyA sitting area in the primary bedroom features another Umbo Inc. woven light, hung into a ceiling recess so as not to impede the water views. A Faithful Roots Monroe sleeper sofa and two Housewright chairs circle around a custom Nickey Kehoe oak coffee table. Above the sofa hangs a mixed media piece, To The Raven by Jared Rue, through Woodside Braseth gallery.A window nook in the primary bathroom provides extra storage and sweeping water views. The window coverings are from Conrad Shades. For the floor, the designers opted for Ann Sacks tiles in Calacatta Daniele, and the countertop and shower curb are Calacatta Gold marble. Waterworks brass faucets and RH mirrors provide classic finishing touches.Most PopularAD-it-Yourself31 Charming Farmhouse Living Room Ideas to Gather RoundBy Sarah LyonShopping7 Best Floor Lamps to Brighten Your Space in 2024By Nora TaylorArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyHoedemaker Pfeiffer took a moodier turn in the office, creating a space that works for relaxed weekend reading or heads-down work. The design team doubled-down on texture with a Merida woven sisal area rug, Phillip Jeffries jute wall covering, and drapes made from a wool-and-silk Pat McGann Gallery textile. The ceiling is painted with Benjamin Moores Ashland Slate.Bold tile from Tabarka Studio lines the main houses powder room. To balance the daring pattern, Phillip Jeffries Amalfi Silk Como finishes the top half of the walls. A Stone Forest Elemental trough sink with brass legs complements the Matthew Cox brass sconces and a Watermark brass faucet. The Art Decoleaning mirror is from The Future Perfect.Most PopularAD-it-Yourself31 Charming Farmhouse Living Room Ideas to Gather RoundBy Sarah LyonShopping7 Best Floor Lamps to Brighten Your Space in 2024By Nora TaylorArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyA Nickey Kehoe bed and chair anchor the guest room. A Kufri Life Textiles quilt hints at the propertys farmhouse roots and a Serena & Lily Flynn wall sconce provides light for a bedtime read. The wall covering is from Sister Parish Design and the oil painting over the bed is by Mark Laver, through Studio E Gallery.Meant to be more casual than the main house, the kitchen in the snug also contains the main dining area, which Hoedemaker Pfeiffer completed with a vintage Swedish farm table and a set of vintage French oak chairsall sourced through Housewright. The walls and ceiling are painted with Benjamin Moores White Dove, and the countertop is soapstone. A Waterworks faucet and Rejuvenation cabinet hardware elevate the space.Most PopularAD-it-Yourself31 Charming Farmhouse Living Room Ideas to Gather RoundBy Sarah LyonShopping7 Best Floor Lamps to Brighten Your Space in 2024By Nora TaylorArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyA bedroom in the farmhouse takes in lush property views. A bed frame and nightstands from CB2 are complemented by a Pacama Handmade Astral desk and Reunion chair. The artwork above the dresser is by Kim Clark.Embracing the farmhouse aesthetic, the designers chose a clawfoot Waterworks bathtub for a vintage feel, layering the rest of the room in whiteincluding Carrara marble (countertops and hex flooring tiles) and Benjamin Moores Calm paintto modernize the space.Most PopularAD-it-Yourself31 Charming Farmhouse Living Room Ideas to Gather RoundBy Sarah LyonShopping7 Best Floor Lamps to Brighten Your Space in 2024By Nora TaylorArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyAnother bedroom in the guesthouse is layered with rich textiles and simple silhouettes. Lighting from Schoolhouse Electric and RH is subtle but effective, and the RH bed frame provides an architectural touch. The corner tulip chaise from Housewright and Moroccan-style rug add a layer of approachability.
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    Tour an Elegant Island Retreat in the Pacific Northwest
    The project deadline was eight months. Even in the most favorable of times, with ideal conditions, completing an entire home renovation on this timeline can be difficult. But what about the renovation of two homes in eight months? Such was the brief for Seattle-based design and architecture firm Hoedemaker Pfeiffer, tasked with renovating a dated, 5,500-square-foot house in need of a full aesthetic refresh, and its counterpart, a 3,500-square-foot farmhouse, with a tight turnaround. The clients had a party planned for the spring, says firm partner and AD PRO Directory member Steve Hoedemaker. They said, We have 30 people coming, we need this done on time.What might have been a daunting task to many was an exciting challenge for the design team. Normally, a project like this would take 24 months, Hoedemaker says. The expedited timeline made it necessary for us, the contractors [Krekow Jennings], and the landscape architect [Ken Philip] to create a cohesive, shared vision from the start. We ended up speaking a shorthand where everyone was able to take a little bit of information and make all the right choices.A place for gathering, the great room in the main house features an elevated palette of earth tones. Architecture and design firm Hoedemaker Pfeiffer plastered over an existing stone fireplace to create a contemporary focal point for the room. A mix of furniturevintage lounge chairs, a Roman and Williams Guild daybed and sofa, and two Phantom Hands upholstered armchairsprovides a seating option for every mood. An Umbo Inc. pendant made from Kozo paper serves as a functional work of art.Located on an island off the coast of Washington, the 25-acre lot offered privacy coupled with unimpeded water views. When we moved to the Pacific Northwest over 30 years ago, we fell in love with this area, say the homeowners, who wanted to see the beauty of the region reflected in their weekend home and a place to host many guests. The San Juan Islands are the quintessential northwest environment, with the forests, the sea, and the mountains.According to firm partner Tim Pfeiffer and the clients themselves, their city residence skews modern, but the island project required a different approach. I would characterize this home as more traditional and appropriate to its rural environment, the client continues, noting that they value context over any particular style. [We wanted] better scale and proportion to the rooms, more refined details and finishesall balanced by an aesthetic leaning toward a more comfortable and casual lifestyle on the island.Formerly a glassed-in porch, the current sunroom is just off the kitchen. A vintage Oushak rug keeps things cozy underfoot, and the velvet-upholstered Roman and Williams Guild Davenport sofa reflects the natural mossy greens of the surrounding property. Two A. Rudin swivel chairs provide a relaxed setting for a tte--tte.The main home and farmhouse had undergone a succession of renovations over the decadesthe former was built in the 1990s, while the latter dates back more than 100 years. We wanted to maintain the original character of the farmhouse, the client explains, so its remodel was more focused on interior finishes and comfort. The primary residence, which sits on a bluff overlooking the water, was dark and dated with a confusing layout that didnt flow in an intuitive way. The window heights were low, the scale of the rooms was bizarre, and there were a lot of weird asymmetries throughout, recalls Hoedemaker.Most PopularAD-it-Yourself31 Charming Farmhouse Living Room Ideas to Gather RoundBy Sarah LyonShopping7 Best Floor Lamps to Brighten Your Space in 2024By Nora TaylorArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyWorking within the houses existing confines, the Hoedemaker Pfeiffer team streamlined the interiorsevening out asymmetries, adding new windows to bring in more natural light and tweaking the layout to accommodate the homeowners wish for a larger kitchen. They also revamped the exterior with vertical wood cladding and the decidedly Northwest touch of a cedar-shake shingle roof. We created a new ridgeline inside so that it would center up on the fireplace in the living room, Pfeiffer says.The only items the homeowners brought with them were a few pieces of silver that were family heirlooms, so the palettelight wood, textured upholstery, patterned wallpaper in neutral tonesevolved from scratch. The only requirements were no leather, and lots of vintage rugs. We wanted to reflect what was outside the home, but bring in additional depth and sophistication using rich tones like cognac, smokey blue, and shades of green, says Peak Petersen, a principal at Hoedemaker Pfeiffer. At one of our first big meetings, we had a selection of fabrics and tiles to show the clients, and when they walked in, the outfit she was wearing matched the fabrics. We knew we were on the right track.The most important room for the culinarily inclined clients was the kitchen. One of their first requests to Hoedemaker Pfeiffer was more square footage in this room, as well as an oversized butcher block cutting board at the end of the island. To make it elegant yet functional, the firm countered the wood cabinetry with Kelly Forslunds Gregorious Pineo woven wall covering. A white shiplap ceiling leans into the farmhouse aesthetic, and the island countertop is a bold Prunella marble. Above the island, a trio of Urban Electric pendants bring an industrial edge.Most PopularAD-it-Yourself31 Charming Farmhouse Living Room Ideas to Gather RoundBy Sarah LyonShopping7 Best Floor Lamps to Brighten Your Space in 2024By Nora TaylorArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyBacked by a wall of built-in shelving, the dining room in the main house features a custom table by San Francisco craftsman Andrew Woodside Carter. Tucked along each side is a row of Jean De Merry Home House Co-op cerused oak chairs upholstered in a wool blend from Pollock. The painting on the wall is by Seattle artist Sarah Norsworthy, purchased through Studio E Gallery.In the great room, furniture by contemporary designers like India Mahdavi and Roman and Williams mix with vintage pieces that give the space a comfortable, lived-in feeling. Here, the design team plastered over the existing fireplace, to improve the look, with the least amount of demolition, Hoedemaker says, and installed a large cedar beam across the ceiling to bring a sense of balance. The kitchen, where the family requested an oversized butcher block cutting board at the end of the island, is a highly functional space with plenty of built-ins and elegant details such as a Prunella marble worktop and zellige tile backsplash.The original kitchen had all of these tiny, ancient appliances, says Petersen. We took over an adjacent living space to allow for the expansion and turned a glassed-in porch into a sitting area. A wood-burning stove at one end of the sunroom captures the bucolic island vibe, while a green velvet upholstered sofa upscales the space. Bedrooms were kept neutral, with little nods to a classic camp vibeplaid textiles, wood bed frames, striped linenswithout veering into overplayed motifs. In the study, where the couple enjoys knocking out some work or reading together during the day, angular furniture and sharp lines lean into a stately aesthetic, softened by jute wall coverings and a woven sisal rug.Most PopularAD-it-Yourself31 Charming Farmhouse Living Room Ideas to Gather RoundBy Sarah LyonShopping7 Best Floor Lamps to Brighten Your Space in 2024By Nora TaylorArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyOnce a modest farmhouse, this guest quarters dates back more than a century. The design team leaned into its history by incorporating vintage-inspired details such as beadboard, unlacquered brass hardware, and wall paneling, while keeping furniture and art on the contemporary side.Just a stones throw away, the farmhouse feels slightly more eclectic, layered as it is with poppier colors and bolder art. A space meant for guests, its kitchen centers on a vintage Swedish farm table paired with French oak chairsa cozy gathering spot for morning coffee. Bedrooms, once again, have earthy base tones, brightened with white-painted ceilings. Beadboard and wall paneling throughout create a cohesive backdrop for the rustic details, such as unlacquered brass hardware. The farmhouse is a little sweeter than the main house, says Petersen. We embraced its original charm and kept things a bit more relaxed.Dubbed the snug, and used as guest accommodations, one of the propertys original structures remains, dating back more than 100 years. In the living room, a Marija Kori armless sofa provides a bohemian vibe, its colors playing off the tones in Johanna Christiansons oil painting hanging above it. A hand-braided jute rug from RH adds texture, while two pieces from Housewrightthe central ottoman and the Habala armchairadd a sleek finish.Most PopularAD-it-Yourself31 Charming Farmhouse Living Room Ideas to Gather RoundBy Sarah LyonShopping7 Best Floor Lamps to Brighten Your Space in 2024By Nora TaylorArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyFor the clients, the farmhouse is the perfect accompaniment to their main residence, where, they say, they truly use each and every space in the home. We have favorite rooms for each part of the day, they note. Morning coffee and evening tea in the sunroom off the beautiful kitchen, with the morning sun as well as the afternoon sun streaming in. The study to work, sit, and read in during the day, the great room to gather in the evenings with a roaring fire going. Each of these rooms has been so thoughtfully curated to feel inviting, cozy, and comfortable all at the same time.Renovated in just eight months, this homelocated on an island off of Washingtonis a weekend escape for a city-dwelling couple who love to entertain. Set on a 25-acre lot overlooking sweeping water views, the house started with a confusing, cramped layout and was transformed into a warm and welcoming space for the clients, their family, and friends.In the primary bedroom, a Pierre Frey wall covering, purchased through Jennifer West Showroom, brings a subtle, geometric backdrop to the Dmitriy & Co. bed frame, above which hangs a vintage Belgian painting. The seven-drawer Bicyclette dresser is made with oak and black walnut.Most PopularAD-it-Yourself31 Charming Farmhouse Living Room Ideas to Gather RoundBy Sarah LyonShopping7 Best Floor Lamps to Brighten Your Space in 2024By Nora TaylorArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyA sitting area in the primary bedroom features another Umbo Inc. woven light, hung into a ceiling recess so as not to impede the water views. A Faithful Roots Monroe sleeper sofa and two Housewright chairs circle around a custom Nickey Kehoe oak coffee table. Above the sofa hangs a mixed media piece, To The Raven by Jared Rue, through Woodside Braseth gallery.A window nook in the primary bathroom provides extra storage and sweeping water views. The window coverings are from Conrad Shades. For the floor, the designers opted for Ann Sacks tiles in Calacatta Daniele, and the countertop and shower curb are Calacatta Gold marble. Waterworks brass faucets and RH mirrors provide classic finishing touches.Most PopularAD-it-Yourself31 Charming Farmhouse Living Room Ideas to Gather RoundBy Sarah LyonShopping7 Best Floor Lamps to Brighten Your Space in 2024By Nora TaylorArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyHoedemaker Pfeiffer took a moodier turn in the office, creating a space that works for relaxed weekend reading or heads-down work. The design team doubled-down on texture with a Merida woven sisal area rug, Phillip Jeffries jute wall covering, and drapes made from a wool-and-silk Pat McGann Gallery textile. The ceiling is painted with Benjamin Moores Ashland Slate.Bold tile from Tabarka Studio lines the main houses powder room. To balance the daring pattern, Phillip Jeffries Amalfi Silk Como finishes the top half of the walls. A Stone Forest Elemental trough sink with brass legs complements the Matthew Cox brass sconces and a Watermark brass faucet. The Art Decoleaning mirror is from The Future Perfect.Most PopularAD-it-Yourself31 Charming Farmhouse Living Room Ideas to Gather RoundBy Sarah LyonShopping7 Best Floor Lamps to Brighten Your Space in 2024By Nora TaylorArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyA Nickey Kehoe bed and chair anchor the guest room. A Kufri Life Textiles quilt hints at the propertys farmhouse roots and a Serena & Lily Flynn wall sconce provides light for a bedtime read. The wall covering is from Sister Parish Design and the oil painting over the bed is by Mark Laver, through Studio E Gallery.Meant to be more casual than the main house, the kitchen in the snug also contains the main dining area, which Hoedemaker Pfeiffer completed with a vintage Swedish farm table and a set of vintage French oak chairsall sourced through Housewright. The walls and ceiling are painted with Benjamin Moores White Dove, and the countertop is soapstone. A Waterworks faucet and Rejuvenation cabinet hardware elevate the space.Most PopularAD-it-Yourself31 Charming Farmhouse Living Room Ideas to Gather RoundBy Sarah LyonShopping7 Best Floor Lamps to Brighten Your Space in 2024By Nora TaylorArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyA bedroom in the farmhouse takes in lush property views. A bed frame and nightstands from CB2 are complemented by a Pacama Handmade Astral desk and Reunion chair. The artwork above the dresser is by Kim Clark.Embracing the farmhouse aesthetic, the designers chose a clawfoot Waterworks bathtub for a vintage feel, layering the rest of the room in whiteincluding Carrara marble (countertops and hex flooring tiles) and Benjamin Moores Calm paintto modernize the space.Most PopularAD-it-Yourself31 Charming Farmhouse Living Room Ideas to Gather RoundBy Sarah LyonShopping7 Best Floor Lamps to Brighten Your Space in 2024By Nora TaylorArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyAnother bedroom in the guesthouse is layered with rich textiles and simple silhouettes. Lighting from Schoolhouse Electric and RH is subtle but effective, and the RH bed frame provides an architectural touch. The corner tulip chaise from Housewright and Moroccan-style rug add a layer of approachability.
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    Star Islands Only Home on the Market Belonged to Rosie ODonnell, One Williamsburg Wharfs Amenities Are Enviable, and More Real Estate News
    Welcome to AD PROs biweekly real estate roundup, covering the biggest deals, most important announcements, and notable listings.This week, Rosie ODonnells former Star Island home lists, a home in the celebrity-beloved LA neighborhood of Hancock Park lists, and FrenchCalifornia and LObjet reveal a model residence collaboration. In this roundup, AD PRO has everything you need to know.Notable ListingsThe former home of Sea Ranch architect George Homsey lists for $2.45 millionGeorge Homsey was a founding partner of the firm EHDD Architects.Photo: Adam RouseBuilt in the 1960s, the Sea Ranch development of Sonoma County, California, is still considered one of the states great planned communities thanks to its modern wood-clad residences and captivating sea views. Just before architect George Homsey began work on homes in Sea Ranch, he crafted this newly listed San Francisco home for his family in 1961. On the market for the first time ever, the three-bedroom, three-bathroom home is asking $2.45 million.Skylights and oversized windows draw light into the home, which is clad in Douglas Fir throughout the interior. The open living space, which is half regular height and half double-height, is the highlight of the homes vistas, with one room-length window presenting San Francisco views like a framed art piece. On the shorter end of the living area, a daybed nook offers a space for repose. An office that was once Homseys studio is situated in a gallery space above this room, at once connected and detached to the social activity of the home. Upstairs, a footbridge gives the primary bedroom access to the backyard. The original built-in shelving and furniture appear in many of the rooms. Many new builds and renovation projects emulate this era of California modernism, but this property is the real deal.Suprstructur holds the listing.
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    ADs Special Guest Editors Share Their Favorite Holiday Gifts
    A safe bet for choosing a foolproof gift? Turn to some of the most imaginative people you know. AD asked eight influential design creatives what theyre gifting (and hoping to get!) this holiday season. Their dynamic visions and unique world-building ability make them the perfect guides to help us determine where and what to shop this year.With the holidays being a time of reflection and renewal, weve also asked that they share some festive memories and how those might inform what they choose to give.Shop by guest editor:Brigette RomanekInterior designer to the starsamong them Beyonc, Demi Moore, and Gwyneth PaltrowRomanek got her start as a Hollywood-based handbag designer before discovering her knack for interiors. Her taste is elegant, elaborate, and exact, as are her gift picks.Photo: Michael CliffordA rare bottle of wine, a limited edition of something they love, caviar, or if theyre a close friend, a photo of you guys together in a silver or vintage Murano frame. So much you can do! And its fun to be creativebe it indulgent or something handmade that adds a unique touch. Make it unexpected.Romanek on what to get the person who has everythingBreville Bambino Plus Espresso MachineCrate & Barrel Symphony Fluted GlassesThis year, Id love something that is an experience or creates a memory, or a beautifully crafted piece Ill have for years. A weekend trip, a spa day, a great pair of cozy socks or throw blanket.Romanek on what's number one on her list this yearCoyuchi Andes Suri Alpaca Knit RobeAutumn Sonata Alma Core Bath SetMy Herms Constance. It was my grandmothers, so its one of my most treasured possessions. Every time I wear it, its like shes with me. Its something Ill keep forever.Romanek on the most treasured gift she received during childhoodOur Place Mini Always Pan 2.0 SetArt Deco Marble Picture FramesEmerald Statement RingShea McGeeShea McGees style is always infused with functionality. The Utah-based founder of Studio McGee has a home decor company, McGee & Co., that, in her words, blends modern and rustic-chic of the Mountain West with a focus on calming and personal design.Photo: Lucy CallGiven what I do for a living, theres a constant stream of beautiful things coming in and out of my house. I am so blessed in that respect. Truly, every year my favorite gifts I receive are ones that are sentimental, like a framed photo of a special memory or a book a friend thinks Ill love.McGee on whats number one on her list this yearStaub Braiser with LidRayla Marble VaseGrowing up, every Christmas Eve my mom gifted me an ornament to put on our tree, and when I moved into my first home after college, she gave me all of them to start my own holiday traditions. Theyre a highlight of my holiday decor every year.McGee on the most treasured gift she received during childhoodMcGee & Co. x Loeffler Randall Tabitha Serving BowlMcGee & Co. Raina FrameIn my own home I have a trio of beautiful antique plates hanging on the wall adjacent to my dining room. If youre lucky enough to have an heirloom set, take a few out and display them. And if you dont, you can treat it like an art purchase bought solely for the intention of displaying.McGee on shopping vintage and antiquesAntique French Ironstone Plates (Set of 6)Juliaan Severin Landscape, Oil On CanvasGifts under $250In the search for the perfect gift under $250, we didnt have to look far. Many of our editors favorite items make excellent presentscrisp Brooklinen sheets, a statement platter from Bordallo Pinheiro, or a delightful salt-and-pepper shaker set can all be found on the list.SHOP THE EDITJake ArnoldAD100 designer and founder of The Expert, Jake Arnold approaches design with elevated comfort in mind. All show through in his many collaborations with brands like Lulu & Georgia, Parachute Home, and Crate & Barrel. Its easy to see the same through line of considered luxury in Arnolds holiday picks.Photo: Elizabeth CarababasOne of my most treasured gifts was a vintage book on the history of design elements. I received it when I was in my teens, and it became a foundation for exploring my innate passion. Having a space to sketch and learn about iconic design moments truly inspired me and set me on my path.Arnold on the most treasured gift he received during childhoodParachute Linen Venice SetDalton Dome Table Lamp by Jake ArnoldGive them an experience. A trip somewhere inspiring or even an afternoon spent creating something together, like a custom scent or a pottery piece, feels memorable and personal.Arnold on what to get the person who has everythingPair of Vintage CandlesticksFlavio Poli Seguso Vetri d'arte Bullicante VaseI once created a customized memory book for a close friend. It was filled with letters from mutual friends and family, snapshots of meaningful moments, and even quirky little mementos from our travels and experiences together. Each page told a different story, and it felt like a way to capture time and celebrate our shared journey in a truly personal way.Arnold on the most creative gift he's ever givenPaul R. Williams: Classic Hollywood Style by Karen E. HudsonJust Andersen BowlsJenni KayneExceptionally skilled at marrying the bohemian with the sophisticated, designer Jenni Kayne is known for her luxurious home and fashion items. Her eponymous California-based brand is defined by its cozy textilesmohair, cashmere, shearlingand grounding color tones.Photo: Jenna SaracoGrowing up, my mom would gift my sisters and I little silver trinkets and trays engraved with our initials. They all sit on my vanity today and are so special to me.Kayne on the most treasured gift she received during childhoodRummikub Game SetVelvet Ball Ornaments (Set of 2) by Cody Foster and CoJenni Kayne Alpaca Basketweave ThrowJenni Kayne Luna PillowJenni Kayne Shearling Moroccan SlipperI really enjoy gifting hosting essentials. As someone who is always gathering with loved ones around the table, I love bringing our tabletop treasures that Ive been gifted by others. This is a nice way to help someone tell their own tabletop story.Kayne on her favorite things to giftHawkins New York Linen Napkins (Set of 4)Uashmama Essential Placemats (Set of 4)Shannon MaldanadoThe Philly-based founder of Yowiea boutique hotel and super-popular online storeShannon Maldonado works closely with independent labels, artists, and emerging designers to exhibit artwork and create bespoke objects. Her wishlist is just as whimsical as youd expect.Photo: Bre FurlongEvery year the Tabi Bianchetto Ballet is on my list! But this year I am hoping to receive a Shrunken Vintage Levi's Denim Jacket in a dark wash. I have been looking for one for a minute and dropping SO many hints to my guy. Lucky for me he loves a vintage hunt!Maldanado on what's number one on her list this yearSophie Lou Jacobsen Tulip Wine Glasses (Set of 4)
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    Caroline Stanbury and Sergio Carrallo at Home: Inside The Real Housewives of Dubai Stars Dubai Villa
    I believe in manifesting and Ive visualized this life of mine," says Caroline Stanbury, The Real Housewives of Dubai cast member, about living in her glass-lined Dubai villa with her husband, Sergio Carrallo. I always wanted to live with Sergio on this side of Al Barari, by the lake, and here we are!It also helped that the reality TV star has real estate mogul Nadia Zaal (who, with her family had masterminded the tropical district in the heart of Dubai) on speed dial. So, a few years ago when she saw Instagram stories about the latest phase of Al Barari being snapped up, Stanbury knew straight away that this was her chance. And just like that, a property materialized backing onto the lake that runs through the neighborhood.Caroline Stanbury in her Dubai living room.Portrait: Ziga MihelcicStanbury and Carrallo started dating in 2019, and their December 2021 wedding was a key story arc in the first season of The Real Housewives of Dubai. In the series second season, after many construction hold-ups and frayed nerves, the couple finally moved into their their new home. For the first few nights, they slept on a mattress on the floornot the glamour Stanbury was accustomed to, but waking up to birdsong and the sound of water trickling by made it all worthwhile. We wanted everything to be perfect before we moved in, but there were delays that were out of our hands, and we wanted to be by ourselves, get on with our lives, and let our friends get on with theirs, recalls Carrallo.The house is brimming with a fun mix of iconic design from different eras and styles.From the living room, one has views out to the swimming pool and the internal courtyard.Most PopularArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyShopping59 Chic Gifts for Her, From Books to Baskets to Our Favorite Boxed WineBy Shoko WangerArchitecture + DesignA Historic Porto Town House Is Transformed Into an Inviting, Contemporary HomeBy Katharina SchwarzeOne of the design elements that caused much concern was a gigantic bonsai tree that had to be air-lifted into the central glass-lined courtyard. This is where Stanburys designer of choice, Kate Instone, comes in with her mastery of combining locality with modernity: As the first thing one sees when they enter Stanbury and Carrallos Dubai villa, the landscaped court tips its hat to the Arab traditions of privacy and spatial hierarchy. On one hand, it screens the private lounge and dining areas from immediate view, and on the other, it separates the home from Stanburys Barbie-pink home office and podcast studio, without cutting anything out of sight.The glass-lined central courtyard with the towering bonsai overlooking the home office.Every element of The Real Housewives of Dubai stars home office was custom-made.Most PopularArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyShopping59 Chic Gifts for Her, From Books to Baskets to Our Favorite Boxed WineBy Shoko WangerArchitecture + DesignA Historic Porto Town House Is Transformed Into an Inviting, Contemporary HomeBy Katharina SchwarzeIve been good friends with Caroline since our days in London, so I already had a strong sense of her personality, preferences, and how she moves through life, says Instone. Most people tend to design homes that reflect what they think others expect of them, using their interiors as status symbols to showcase wealth, style, or sophistication. Caroline was determined not to fall into that trap. She wanted her home to be a true reflection of who she isunpretentious, personal, and deeply connected to her own tastes and lifestyle. The Real Housewives stars brief was refreshingly simple: she wanted a modern, light-filled home connected to nature.Nothing of what you see in this home today is an original feature from when we bought it," explains Stanbury. The only thing we said to the team was to not touch the plants growing by the lake. I wanted it to feel like a jungle and that is so refreshing in Dubai.Caroline Stanbury in her jungle-like outdoor dining area that overlooks the lake that runs through Al Barari.Portrait: Ziga Mihelcic; Tablescape by Irony Home with tableware by TavolaA chevron floor in black-and-white marble from Casa Mia sets the stage for the open plan ground floor, where the kitchenwith its island accessorized with brass framed chairsleads into the formal living and dining area, which opens out to the dining terrace on one side and the swimming pool and lounge on the other.Most PopularArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyShopping59 Chic Gifts for Her, From Books to Baskets to Our Favorite Boxed WineBy Shoko WangerArchitecture + DesignA Historic Porto Town House Is Transformed Into an Inviting, Contemporary HomeBy Katharina SchwarzeThe open kitchen was designed as a welcome area for entertaining guests before they stepped into the living room.faisal khatibIve got kids and dogs, and I wanted this sense where we could all go from one place to the other freelyand even when were not together, we could still remain connected. Exterior walls in high-performance glass that minimizes heat transmission without compromising the view were complemented with motorized, retractable shading systemssuch as louvered pergolas and automated blindsand smart thermostats, which automatically adjust interior temperature based on the weather and occupancy patterns, ensuring that Stanburys vision for indoor-outdoor living was also kind on the planet. And while the bonsai soars through the atrium to visually connect the upper floors with nature, where that is not possible, tropical plants bring nature indoors, or as per recent decoration developments in the Stanbury-Carrallo household, to the rooftop terrace lounge.The living room opens up to the swimming pool and lounge.faisal khatibMost PopularArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyShopping59 Chic Gifts for Her, From Books to Baskets to Our Favorite Boxed WineBy Shoko WangerArchitecture + DesignA Historic Porto Town House Is Transformed Into an Inviting, Contemporary HomeBy Katharina SchwarzeFans of the franchise would recall a pivotal scene in season two of The Real Housewives of Dubai: Stanbury and Carrallo are throwing a house-warming party and all hell breaks loose. At the center of the on-screen drama between Taline Marie and Caroline Brooks was Stanburys milk white M. Bellini Camaleonda sofa by B&B Italia. This sofa went viral on The Real Housewives of Dubai, laughs the TV star. And yes, on the show I did say that I dont want anyone near it, but honestly, we all use it every day. Chandeliers in opaline Murano glass anoint the space filled with Stanburys art collection and family pictures.The infamous Bellini couch.faisal khatibThe house is brought to life with Stanburys fun art collection.faisal khatibMost PopularArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyShopping59 Chic Gifts for Her, From Books to Baskets to Our Favorite Boxed WineBy Shoko WangerArchitecture + DesignA Historic Porto Town House Is Transformed Into an Inviting, Contemporary HomeBy Katharina SchwarzeUpstairs, Stanbury and Carrallos bedroom is a calm, blush pink cocoon. Just a mirror and marble ledge (which also conceals a TV that pops out at the press of a button) separates the sleeping area from the bathroom. I really wanted a hotel vibe here, says Stanbury. One of the biggest investments in my house is luxury bedding. Ive got the worlds finest bedding and its no joke. Its all Scandia Home and it can cost you a second mortgage.A mirror and marble plinth separates the sleeping area from the hotel-style integrated bathroom.The plinth also conceals a TV installed on a hydraulic system.Most PopularArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyShopping59 Chic Gifts for Her, From Books to Baskets to Our Favorite Boxed WineBy Shoko WangerArchitecture + DesignA Historic Porto Town House Is Transformed Into an Inviting, Contemporary HomeBy Katharina SchwarzeA hand-painted de Gournay wall covering, in a soft, swirly pattern becomes both the de facto headboard and statement wall, its soft tones mirrored in the Italian marble and mosaic tiles that complete the wet area.Also connected to the main suite is Stanburys walk-in wardrobe, brimming with power suits, Birkins, and Chanel dresses that the reality TV star has had altered to her taste. People ask me where my stuff is, but Im slowly inching my way in here, laughs Carrallo pointing to his section in this Hollywood-style dressing room fitted out in bespoke cabinetry by Ornare Dubai.Caroline Stanburys Dubai villa was originally published in AD Middle East, which you can find here.Step inside Stanburys walk-in wardrobe.faisal khatibThe Hollywood-style dressing area features wall-to-wall cabinetry by Ornare Dubai.Portrait: Ziga MihelcicMost PopularArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyShopping59 Chic Gifts for Her, From Books to Baskets to Our Favorite Boxed WineBy Shoko WangerArchitecture + DesignA Historic Porto Town House Is Transformed Into an Inviting, Contemporary HomeBy Katharina SchwarzeAnd when Stanbury is not hiding away in her bedroom, shes assembled with family and friends in the home theatre on the first floor, where they can let their hair down and watch reruns of The Real Housewives of Dubai reunion.On the first floor, the home theatre anchored by a de Gournay wall covering on one side and views of the internal courtyard with the bonsai tree on the other.faisal khatibThe open-style home theatre area adds a pop of color to the house.faisal khatibMost PopularArchitecture + DesignThis Colorful Spanish Apartment Feels Much Larger than 700 Square FeetBy Sara Barragn del ReyShopping59 Chic Gifts for Her, From Books to Baskets to Our Favorite Boxed WineBy Shoko WangerArchitecture + DesignA Historic Porto Town House Is Transformed Into an Inviting, Contemporary HomeBy Katharina SchwarzeWhile the construction phase of Stanbury and Carrallos dream home in Dubai was not always easy, the process of imagining something and then seeing it come to life has opened up new opportunities; now, the couple has a range of real estate projects on the go. In Dubai, they are working on a series of branded rental apartments (also designed in collaboration with Instone and her studio, Blush) and in Bali, a sculptural resort has just started taking shape.Before we started work on this house, I seriously thought we would end up in LA, because these type of homes didnt exist in the Middle East until a few years agoand here I am, in my glass-lined home in Dubai, with my hot, young husband, says Stanbury. I told you I believe in manifesting!The lift, lined with a jungle scene by de Gournay, features a fun nod to Caroline Stanburys Ladies of London days: a phone booth.faisal khatib
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    The Frank Lloyd Wright Real Estate Market Is Changing in Ways That Buck Historical Trends
    When the Vogts began renovations, their top priority was adding air conditioning. They also upgraded the electrical system and remodeled the bathrooms. They added modern touches for conveniencethe house now has a tankless water heater, a whole-house generator, and smart thermostats.A patio area is furnished with pieces by Le Corbusier and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.Photo: VHT Studios, courtesy of Elizabeth AugustThey also tackled the overgrown yard, adding a drainage system to mitigate any flooding from a nearby river. Then, to honor Wrights original vision, they hired historic landscape architectCarol Yetkento design a yard featuring native plants that would have been available during Wrights era.Their efforts evidently paid off, both in securing a quick sale and in ensuring the home remains in good shape for years. Indeed, Worl told Crains Chicago Business that the drainage addition ensures the home will be standing 100 years from now.Now the Vogts are ready to turn it over to the new owners, the Worls, who they hope will love it as much as they have and preserve all of its one-of-a-kind features.You could call it a love story, August, the listing agent, says. [The Vogts] wanted this home to shine and carry on for years to come.
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    Casa Encantada, a Storied Bel-Air Estate, Gets a Dramatic $85 Million Price Cut
    When Casa Encantada, a storied 60-room estate in Bel-Air, hit the market in June 2023, its $250 million asking price made it the most expensive house for sale in the United States. Though it appeared to be gunning to set a record for the most expensive house ever sold in the United Statesa title the home already held twice, once in 1980 and again in 2000a dramatic price drop in November 2023, down to $195 million, seemingly took it out of the running. Now, the home has received another major discount. According to Robb Report, the home is now listed for $165 million, $30 million cheaper than its most recent asking price and $85 million less than its original.The homes faade is in a neoclassical style.Photo: Simon BerlynThese kinds of estates come up only once every few decades, and once theyre gone theyre gone, Kurt Rappaport of Westside Estate Agency, who shares the listing with Drew Fenton of Carolwood Estates and Josh Flagg of Compass, previously told the Wall Street Journal. Even so, the current real estate market has made it harder to find a buyer, hence the ever-decreasing price. If this was 2017, the house would be sold by now, but given the state of the market, there arent buyers lining up around the block for any house over $100 million. With that said, there are people out there that can afford a house like this and it just takes that one person, Flagg recently told Robb.Spanning 40,000 square feet, the home was built in the middle of the Depression for Hilda Boldt Weber, the wealthy widow of a glass manufacturer from Ohio. Boldt Weber bought the land for $100,000an impressive sum today but a truly astounding amount in 1934, amid the greatest economic crisis of the modern industrialized world. Shed felt ostracized by her late husbands peers, who reportedly looked down on her for coming from humble beginnings, and opted to build a grand estate to solidify herself in California society.
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    21 Best Gifts for Women on Amazon To Cure Your Gifting Anxiety
    Photo: Elkin JaramilloOSEA Undaria Algae Body OilThis body oil has had a cult following since its release for a reasonits a super effective moisturizer and it smells amazing. But perhaps most importantly, its one of those beauty products that makes you feel like the richest woman in the world, Give your giftee the gift of emerging from the shower to moisturize herself with an oil perfumed by grapefruit, lime and cypress before donning her robe and slippers.Fecido Classic Dark Kitchen Dish TowelsThese dish towels do the work of being both functional and cute, which is a rarer pairing than it should be, in my opinion. The dark green color and checkered detailing bring a French bistro vibe to the kitchen, which is particularly welcome in tiny spaces where every last detail requires cuteness.Fellow Stagg EKG Electric Gooseneck KettleBoasting a powerful but precise stream, this stainless steel kettle brings thoughtful design to your countertop and your morning, afternoon, and evening beverage. A built-in brew stopwatch and a temperature control feature make it a particularly good choice for those with strong preferences.Ana Luisa Gold Lev Heart Stud EarringsThis is gold-plated goodnessa high-quality pair of earrings at an accessible price point. Theyre trendy while still being a thoughtful gift, and would be a particularly precious choice for someone whos just got their second piercings done. Ana Luisa also carries a great selection of huggie hoops, which are always a safe choice.AmazonLauren ArzbaecherLauren ArzbaecherBoll & Branch Signature Hemmed Sheet SetWhile were on the topic of luxury, you can never have too many sheets, especially when theyre 100% organic cotton. Weve rated these before as the Best Luxury Sheet Set on Amazoncontributor Kristi Kellogg called them buttery, breathable wonders that make you feel like youre drifting off to sleep in a five-star hotelso you know we mean it. The pillowcases come separate, too, in case youre not looking to gift a full bedding overhaul. And if you are? Pair with the comfy Boll & Branch waffle throw blanket.Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)Speaking from experience: this particular generation of AirPods is life-changing. The noise cancellation feature is startlingly effective: the second these enter your ears, theres no longer a baby screaming on the plane, a mariachi band in the subway, or someone playing an electronic piano cover of John Legend at 130 decibels in the Fulton St. station at 8:00 am. The voice isolation feature is programmed to recognize when youre speaking and automatically lower the volume, and it uses the same software to improve the quality of your calls in loud conditions. The battery life is no joke, eitherup to six hours of listening time on a single charge.Dyson Supersonic Hair DryerNo list of the Best Gifts for Women on Amazon would be complete without the Dyson hair dryer. We can promise you this hair dryer is a big ticket wishlist item pretty much every year. Dysons innovation made nearly every other hair dryer cower, or at least scramble to dupe it. Its most certainly a splurge item, but its also completely life-changinga perfected blowout from home?! We never imagined it possibleuntil now.AmazonHydro Flask 20 Oz Wide Flex Cap AgaveNew Years resolution: test every celebritys theory that their skincare and weight loss routine is drinking water. But a virtually indestructible and temperature-regulated water bottle is necessary for those on their 8-cups-a-day journey or not.20-Piece Flatware Set for 4 - Bistrot Vintage CollectionIf youre looking to shell out for a very special gourmand, nothing says special occasion tablescape like a set of Sabre Paris cutlery. Were suckers for every shade, but our favorites are all hereblack, ivory, and green fernat one of the best price points weve seen for a 20-piece set. A Sabre set also makes for a guaranteed home run of a housewarming gift.JBL FLIP 5, Waterproof Portable Bluetooth SpeakerIf theyre not already proud owners of a JBL bluetooth speaker, they should be. This speaker is a best seller on Amazon (with nearly 80,000 positive reviews) for a reasonits sound system really packs a punch. Its also waterproof, which makes it a pool or dockside necessity as soon as the summer months roll back around.Loop Quiet 2 Ear PlugsNot on my bingo card for 2024: ear plugs becoming a commodity. People are loving this design forward set from Loop as wellness culture further encourages us to self-care in every way we can. Pairs well with Eras Tour ticketsMalin + Goetz Essential Hand + Body WashWere big Malin + Goetz fans at AD (and highly recommend their strawberry candle) for their less-is-better philosophy and the quality of their products. Their whole line is a god-send especially for those of us with sensitive skin. Im also partial to their bergamot and eucalyptus scents, but their signature rum fragrance is another highly-rated favorite.MARIMEKKO Unikko Terry Cotton Hand TowelMarimekko screams womens home staple, with its playful, bold, floral designs, and bright color schemes. A hand towel is a perfect touch to add a fun element to your bathroom without overwhelming the space.
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    Alexandra Daddario Sells Treehouse-Inspired Midcentury Modern Gem for $2.9 Million
    A year and a half after buying their midcentury modern LA home, new parents Alexandra Daddario and Andrew Form have parted ways with the pad. As reported by Mansion Global, the White Lotus star and her film producer husband, who welcomed their first baby on Halloween, listed the stylishly renovated Mandeville Canyon house in August. It officially changed hands earlier this week for $2.9 million.Daddario and Form bought the treehouse-inspired abode, which was built in 1959 by surfer-turned-architect Matt Kivlin, for $2.8 million in May 2023. The previous owners were documentary filmmaker Lacey Uhlemeyer and her husband, Rendell Johnson, who welcomed ADs cameras in for a tour. The 2022 feature highlights the transformative renovations the duo tackled in collaboration with designer Claire Thomas. They sought to restore the dwellings midcentury glory following a dated 80s makeover. Uhlemeyer told AD that the homes beautiful original design still shone through, which is ultimately what drew her to the property. What I did see, beyond the chocolate brown painted ceilings and stone tile bathrooms, was a really special post-and-beam architectural treehouse with floor-to-ceiling windows that invite in the gorgeous, protected canyon views, she said.It appears the Mayfair Witches actor didnt change muchif anythingabout the residence. A loft area with 60s-style green shag carpet, bare wooden beams, and a serene green primary bathroom with a Japanese-inspired hammered copper tub remain, per listing photos. Lined with glass, the light-flooded great room is centered around a red-tiled hearth that separates the kitchen and dining areas from the living room. A wraparound porch equipped for alfresco dining, a sauna, and a cold plunge round out the amenities in the tree-lined yard.Register TodayAD PRO's 2025 Interior Design Forecast is almost hereArrowIts unclear where Daddario and Form have relocated to, but the Percy Jackson actor did share a peek into her babys new nursery on Instagram recently; the space features high ceilings, exposed brick, floral-printed drapes, and a built-in sage green shelving unit.
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    The Redemption of Farmhouse Style Is Closer Than You Think
    For many in the design world, the chickens have come home to roost for the typical modern farmhouse. Shiplap walls, black windows. Its all about as expected as clerestory windows on a stuck-in-time 1960s ranch. And its very much of an eraeven if that era was less than five years ago. Call it the vernacular of 2020.The ubiquitousness of the modern farmhouse is in part due to trend-hungry builders, says architect Jim Rill of his namesake Bethesda, Maryland, firm. There are some very, very nice modern farmhouses out there that are sometimes done by really good architectsand they even are good today if they get them right, [because] theyre more proportioned, Rill says. What happens is the builder gets wind of it and they say, Hey, look, weve got a new trend, and soon enough, it feels like theyre everywhere.Fritz Haeg and Jeremy Schipper placed vintage chairs around a farmhouse-style redwood table by Tim Bottom in this California cabin. The windows and sink are architectural salvage.Andre JonesIn Denver, where I live, you can throw a rock in any direction and hit a modern farmhouseoften sandwiched between two century-old brick foursquares, and standing out like a black sheep in the flock. Even today, [modern farmhouses] pop up in all these neighborhoods where you have tear-downs, he notes. You know the look: the white house with the board and batten siding, metal roofs, and black windows. To put it bluntly, Theyre not done particularly well, says Rill, and then they get saturated. The issue, he notes, is a failure to take it past cookie-cutter clich. I dont have a problem with a modern farmhouse, but you have to push it to the next level. And a lot of these infill lots and things like that, theyre all trying to be modern farmhouses, and that's where it gets its bad name.Blessedly, thats all starting to change as designers and architects work to whip up more artisanal, authentic versions of the styleplanting a seed for a less-homogenous future. Jennifer Garners LA home, which held the cover of ADs September 2024 issue, is one such example. Designed by Steve and Brooke Giannetti with Laura Putnam, it looks Old World, with its stone detailing and more saturated color palette.
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    Mica Erteguns Private CollectionIncluding a Rare Magritte Estimated at $95MHeads to Auction
    One of their early commissions was transforming a floor of Saks Fifth Avenues flagship location, where Bill Blass, Pierre Cardin, and other of-the-moment designers showcased their wares. Glamorous homes for the social setboth in the city and farther afieldfollowed. After Rayners death in 1998, Ertegun pressed on with solo design projects, including Walmart heiress Alice Waltons Park Avenue duplex condo.Like Erteguns vast oeuvre, the Christies collection has sweep, as Carter puts it, spanning the De Stijl, Surrealism, and Color-Field movements. Vivid paintings by David Hockney, Joan Mir, and Ed Rauscha, for example, mingle with an industrial David Smith sculpture and a glamorous photograph Andy Warhol snapped of Ertegun. Theres also a 19th-century German mahogany secretaire and pair of breezy mid-20th-century bronze palm trees attributed to Maison Jansen that once graced Erteguns New York living room, as well as an Ingrid Donat chaise longue that held court in the guest room.The most coveted of items is sure to be one of Ren Magrittes Lempire des lumires nocturnal landscape paintings, estimated at upwards of $95 million. It is the largest, the most finely painted, the most exquisitely preserved of Magrittes series, points out Carter. It exhausts superlatives. But every object in the collection is just so and has its own special story, like the Henry Moore sculpture, chosen by Moore specifically for The International Surrealist Exhibition held in London in1936.Given that her husband was a music mogul who ignited the careers of such talents as Aretha Franklin and Led Zeppelin, Ertegun often designed residences for musiciansCarly Simon and Keith Richards among them. This glittering ambience suffused the Erteguns personal lives too. They were dinner party fixtures, hobnobbing with luminaries like Oscar de la Renta and Henry Kissinger. But beyond the glitz they were philanthropists, and following Ahmets death in 2006, his wife carried on with an atrium for Jazz at Lincoln Center, restoration efforts at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, and $41 million toward humanities scholarships at the University of Oxford. It is fitting, then, that a significant portion of proceeds from the sales will go toward charitable initiatives.The AD archive offers a glimpse into Erteguns multifaceted persona through her stunning yet no-nonsense spaces, which she guided with an uncompromising design philosophy. Looking for inspiration for your auction hunting? Try diving into these six timeless tales from our past editions.The Design Legacy of Mica Ertegun
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    A Modern Menorah Will Elevate Your Hanukkah Table
    Hanukkah is full of joyous traditions, from latke-making to dreidel-playing, but theres no ritual more important to the holiday than lighting the menorahso you should buy one that suits your style. Sure, the heirloom your grandparents thoughtfully handed down to you is special, but its probably not your aesthetic. And you may not have the time or energy to devote to a DIY menorah project. Luckily, there are so many cool, contemporary menorahs available to purchase online.Whether your home leans maximalist or minimalist, midcentury modern or boho, there is a modern menorah to match your vibe. You can get whimsical with Susan Alexandras pastel ice cream cone menorah, make a statement with Hannah Polskins wavy menorah sculpture, or keep it simple with West Elms geometric glass menorah. These options wont only punch up the festival of lightstheyll also double as home decor year-round. This year, Hanukkah starts on Wednesday, December 25, so make sure to invest in a design-forward menorah before the fun begins.Menorah by Josh OwenOriginally designed for Areaware, Josh Owens solid cast-iron menorah became an instant classic for those in search of a modern menorah. Since its release, its been added to the permanent collections of the Memorial Art Gallery, the National Museum of American Jewish History, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.West Elm Glass MenorahSleek and minimalist, this handsome glass Hanukkah menorah from West Elm allows your candlesticks to do the talking. Keep it simple with classic white ones or bring in pops of color. The vessels block style is great for any contemporary home.Trace ChanukiahA distinct departure from the classic gold-plated or solid brass menorah, the Via Maris Trace menorah is made with powder-coated steel. The brand aims to redesign Judaica for the 21st century using a pared-down approach and largely industrial materials. Browse their site for more thoughtfully designed Jewish gifts like mezuzahs and kiddush cups reinterpreted with a modern lens.Design Within Reach Ascalon MenorahDesigned by Brad Ascalon, this sleek menorah is made of solid Carrara marble. Its diagonal plane isnt just chicits also symbolic, intentionally angled at 18 degrees, a holy number in Judaism that represents chai, which means life in Hebrew.Modern Industrial Menorah by Alabama SawyerFor an industrial menorah, look to this utilitarian white oak wood and steel number. Crafted by Alabama Sawyer, a Birmingham-based furniture maker, it brings materials not often associated with menorahs to the Hanukkah table.Anodized Menorah by The Holiday AisleWith a traditional silhouette but a decidedly avant-garde anodized metal finish, this menorah will add a sense of multicolor whimsy to all eight nights.Via Maris Glass ChanukiahVia Maris collaborated with French American glassware designer Sophie Lou Jacobsen on this playful borosilicate glass number that comes aglow when oil candles are lit within it. The smoke version offers a minimalist vibe, while the amber and rose variety will bring warm, inviting hues to any table.L'Objet Rova MenorahAn abstract, geometric take on the classic brass iteration, LObjets Rova menorah is inspired by the maze of streets in the Old City of Jerusalem. With a sturdy gris-marble base, this menorah is bound to become a family heirloom.Judaica Standard Time x Ariela Nomi Kuh Sparrow MenorahThis speckled ceramic menorah is the brainchild of Judaica Standard Time and Maine-based ceramicist Ariela Nomi Kuh. It's a bespoke and pared-down take on the modern menorah, and it practically begs you to keep it on display throughout the year.Hannah Polskin Menorah SculptureIf youre willing to splurge on a menorah, consider this marble and resin composite sculpture by Los Angelesbased multidisciplinary artist Hannah Polskin. It features brass candle holders for use during the holiday, but its squiggly shape is begging to be exhibited 365 days a year. We also think itd make a particularly thoughtful wedding gift.Susan Alexandra Ice Cream Cone MenorahWe can always count on New Yorkbased jewelry and handbag designer Susan Alexandra to create colorful, food-forward Judaica that sparks joyand this lilac ice cream cone menorah is no exception. The fused glass piece includes fudge, whipped cream, sprinkles, and a cherry on top, helping us forget that winter is coming. While youre shopping for a menorah, youll find lots of delightful Hanukkah gifts in the SA collection.MA-MA MenorahMA-MA, the multidisciplinary design studio founded by a trio of sisters, has just released its very first object: a contemporary, circular menorah made of two polished aluminum slabs. Its expertly engineered so that the modular top piece rotates to reveal a new candle hole on each night of Hanukkah.Hannah Polskin x Amy Morgenstern Menorah SculptureThough its an even bigger splurge than her classic menorah sculpture, Hannah Polskins collaboration with Amy Morgenstern of Kamp Studios is a worthwhile investment. The artists applied a custom mixture of molten bronze to achieve an antique effect that makes the wavy menorah look like it was recovered from the Second Temple.Shayna Menorah by DumThree ceramic arches fuse together in this sculptural menorah by Los Angelesbased home goods brand dum. For a moody look choose the bronze finish, or stick to a minimalist aesthetic with the ivory option. Either way, your mantel is getting an upgrade.Simon Pearce Riverstone MenorahInspired by the smooth, flattened stones found in the rushing waters of Vermonts rivers, the hand-blown glass base of this Simon Peace menorah is rounded and sleek. Its also polished so that the flickering of the Hanukkah candles is reflected beautifully each night.Jonathan Adler Dachshund MenorahPup lovers will swoon over this white ceramic dachshund menorah by Jonathan Adler, which is finished with a soft satin matte glaze. The hot dogs elongated body is perfect for eight candles, with the shamash resting regally atop her head.SIN Swey MenorahVirginia Sin, the Brooklynbased artist behind Sin, created this ribbon-like stoneware menorah to honor both new and old traditions. It comes in black, cream, and sand finishes, each of which expresses the ethereal movement of the piece in its own way.Georg Jensen Cobra Stainless Steel MenorahLast but not least on our list is this gorgeous menorah courtesy of Danish silversmithing brand Georg Jensen. Aside from its beautiful, fluted design, this option comes with free next day delivery if you are celebrating in a pinch.
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    27 Best Christmas Ornaments of 2024
    Ask 25 people to share their thoughts on the best Christmas ornaments and youll get 25 different answers. Most of the time, the one that tops the list has some sort of sentimental value: DIY baubles made long ago in a classroom, shatterproof sets that have graced your familys holiday trees for decades, or a handcrafted tree topper from that one time you visited a German Christmas market.The holiday decor scene is saturatednutcrackers, gingerbread houses, bow garlands, wreaths, strings of snowflakes, glittery pinecones, and that nativity scene thats been passed down for generations. The list is long and it is full of red and green. And you cant forget about the Christmas lights. Outfitting a holiday tree comes with the opportunity to whittle down your seasonal decorating style. Are you going for something that screams Santa! or would you rather go with something less holiday-specific and turn your living room into a snow globe scene? Plaid or quilted tree skirt? Youve got some decisions to make, but we can at least help with your ornament collection. Ahead, we pulled together the 27 best Christmas ornamentsmany of which cost less than $10.Wondershop Acrylic Diamond Ornaments (Set of 12)Consider this: a monochromatic holiday tree with cheeky little diamonds peeking out from the boughs. If youre a fan of all things sparkly, go all in and cover your trees in these tiny acrylic trinkets (each one is 1.12" wide x 1.5" tall). The best part is that they can be used year-round, piled high in a big bowl as a tabletop centerpiece. Holiday cheer and home decor.Schoolhouse Shiny Brite Vivid Vintage Ornament (Set of 9)If you love the ornaments that dot the trees in your family photo albums of holidays long past, this set of nine 2.5" tall tulips is a modern take on a classic shape. Inspired by the vintage designs of the 1940s and 50s, each one is hand-painted with bright stripes and hides a little sprig of tinsel inside its body.Urban Outfitters Bread In Bags OrnamentOkay, this ones quirky and were here for it. Its the perfect choice for a White Elephant party, the carb lover in your life, or that friend who loves nostalgia. And theres an element of surprisethere are three styles (hot dogs, burger buns, and sliced bread)all measuring between 3.5" and 4.5" tall and its dealers choice as to which one you get.West Elm Glass Sardines OrnamentPescatarian or tinned fish enthusiast, this glitter-flecked glass ornament is a lighthearted way to tell your favorite girl dinner guest how much you appreciate them. Coming in at 4" tall and 1.5" in diameter, its the perfect size for anchoring a branch.Pottery Barn Apres Ski Ornament Box (Set of 6)Have you ever heard of sporty Santa? Now you have. This set of mercury glass ornaments features all of the makings of the perfect day on the slopes, from the skis and gloves to the gondola. The smaller designs measure 1.25" in diameter and 4.25" in height, while the larger ones are 2" and 4".NYC Felt OrnamentIn New York, there arent many things more iconic than the yellow taxi, but pop a Christmas tree on top and youve got a real treat for the eyes. Gift this felted cutie to your friend who recently made a move to the Big Apple for their first Christmas away from home. You know, so they know you forgive them for planting themself an entire flight away.Stanley Water Bottle Keychain & OrnamentThe Stanley colorway theyve been eyeing may be out of stock, but this ornament is forever. A tiny version of the ever-popular Quencher H2.0 Tumbler, it can be used as a Christmas ornament or a keychain. The top of this 4.45" x 1.97" cutie also comes off, so you can tuck a little note inside.Pat Kim OrnamentsThis set is for your design-enthusiast friendthe one who is always visiting a new art gallery or digging into a book about a famous architect. Each one is an adaptation of Pat Kims designs, made of wood and perfect for peppering around the house once the Christmas lights come down.West Elm Mid-Century Paper House OrnamentReminiscent of gingerbread houses, these intricate, snow-dusted homes remind us of a drive through Palm Springs (minus the flurries, of course). Each one ranges in height from 2.2" to 2/4" and the painted paper does a great job of mimicking the interior glow of a home full of party guests.CB2 Velvet Multicolor Ornaments (Set of 4)Two words: velvet ornaments. Sure, playing with size and shape is fun when it comes to decking the tree but dont forget about the texture. These are also massive (each one has a diameter of 12.88"), which will add some fun variety if youve got a corral of petite decorations.SBK Vintage Brite Twisted Icicle OrnamentIf youre looking for merry and bright, this 8" glass icicle ornament is a must-have. Seen here in green, turquoise, and magenta, its also available in a patriotic colorway for something extra festive and with a blue, red, and gold twist.Hallmark "The Office" Coffee Mug Christmas Tree OrnamentAny fan of The Office will want to add this instantly recognizable coffee mug to their cart. The back of the mug even features Dunder Mifflin branding.Northlight Green and Blue Peacock Glass OrnamentLiven things up with this brightly colored bird thatll perch right in your tree. The ornament measures 4.75" x 4" and is made of delicate glass. It has embellishments of glitter, rhinestones, and sequins and comes ready to hang on a gold cord.Morawski Bright Colored Flower Clip-On OrnamentChristmas tree decorations dont have to hangthey can also clip on. This festive 5" flower is hand-painted and will look stunning nestled in the branches of your tree. Seen here in white and pink, the ornament is also available in bright green.Northlight Shatterproof Iridescent Ball Ornaments (Set of 60)If youre looking for something unbreakable, this set of iridescent balls is where its at. Each plastic ball has a 2.5" diameter and a silver ornament cap. Matching silver string hangers are included.Gallerie II Macrame Snowman OrnamentThis adorable cotton ornament has such a charming handcrafted look, it almost looks like a grandparent made it. The macram snowman measures 9.05" x 5.5" inches and will add some serious holiday cheer to your branches.Bright Creations Clear DIY Acrylic Ornaments (Set of 24)If you like variety, this Christmas ornament set has an assortment of acrylic holiday shapes, like stockings or presents, that you can draw or paint on. The possibilities are endless. Each of the ornaments are 3" x 2" or 3" x 3" and are looped with red ribbon for easy hanging.Northlight Gold Mercury Glass Style Ornaments (Set of 12)Keep things classy and refined. Give your tree a vintage touch with this gorgeous gold ornament set with a variety of shapes (all measuring around 3").Christmas Cheer Ornaments (Set of 20)This delightful assortment of hand-blown glass ornaments features a sorbet-inspired color scheme with creamy pinks, icy blues, and more. Itll make your tree immediately stand out from any other.Vickerman Tinsel Ball OrnamentIf you want razzle-dazzle vibes, pick up this shimmering, shatterproof ornament. Its available in a variety of eye-catching colors, including turquoise, gold, blue, lime, champagne, red, and pink (pictured).Funoasis Hanging Gnomes Ornaments (Set of 10)Our love of gnomes is no secret, and a set of ten might just be enough for a holiday fix. Each fabric gnome measures 5.7" x 2.2" and can be hung from your tree or placed around the house as holiday decor.Coca-Cola Glass Blown Mini Diner Ornaments (Set of 4)Any Coca Cola enthusiast will be delighted with this vintage-inspired ornament set. Sprinkle them throughout the tree and be forever reminded of the iconic drink.Old World Christmas Conversation Heart Glass Blown OrnamentsTheres absolutely no way we could make a list of the best ornaments and not include this supersweet set of conversation hearts. Theyd make a perfect addition to our favorite pink fake Christmas tree.Memory Lane Keepsake Wedding OrnamentCommemorate a special date (and maybe your first holiday with a loved one?) with this sweet, personalized ornament. You can tailor it for an engagement date or a wedding date.Wondershop Lit Ceramic Retro Christmas Tree OrnamentInspired by retro holiday decor of years past, this mini Christmas tree is available in pink, white, or green. The ceramic ornament is perfect for a pastel color scheme.Wondershop Glass Butter OrnamentAnother fabulous food ornamentany baker or home chef will want to showcase this essential ingredient on their tree. Like a real stick of butter, the eye-catching glass ornament measures 2" x 4".Kurt Adler Noble Gems French Baguette Glass OrnamentThis French bread is made of glass, so it will really shine against your tree lights. Its got a kitschy yet vintage vibe, and it will stand out from other icicle-style ornaments.
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    How to Clean a Couch: A Complete Guide to Sprucing Up Your Sofa
    If youre an average American, you may spend a few hours on your living room sofa daily. And no judgment here! But knowing how to clean a couch should be somewhere on your to-do list, given how much of your time at home is passed lounging on one. After all, a stained, soiled, or generally unclean sofa is harder to truly unwind onand its a lot tougher for your interior space to look its best with a dingy seating centerpiece.Were here to help you with expert tips on how to clean a couch, including actionable steps on couch cleaning for all different types of couch material. Whether you have a leather couch, a microfiber couch, or some other fabrication, we have upholstery cleaning advice, deep-clean ideas, and step-by-step cleaning instructions. With just a little bit of effort, that sofa of yours will be good as newso you can stop worrying about if those cushion covers look run down and get back to worrying about what will happen during the next episode of Call the Midwife.How to clean a couchBefore we get into the step-by-step instructions for both spot cleaning and deep cleaning couches with the most common couch upholstery types, take a moment to review some general need-to-know sofa cleaning info.Always start by vacuuming your couch first, says Alicia Sokolowski, founder and CEO of AspenClean. Just about all the experts consulted for this piece urge you not to skip this crucial stepwith one important exception to the vacuum-first approach: Leather couches. Ryan Knoll, owner of Phoenix-based company Tidy Casa, says that the best way to clean a leather couch is by starting off with dusting it. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the surface of the leather to remove any dust or debris.What kind of couch requires the least cleaning maintenance?If youre not the biggest fan of cleaning in general, factor that in as you consider the type of couch youll purchase next. Microfiber will honestly be one of the easiest materials to clean, says Milly McEwan, product and design manager at RJ Living. Fabric couches can be the hardest to clean, McEwan adds, as they sometimes require deep cleaning approaches, like a steam cleaner.What does the label on my couch mean?Sokolowski notes that you should pay attention to your couchs label, which typically offers some handy info on how to clean your specific kind of couch. She explains that the letter W on your label means you should use water-based cleaners, [while] S indicates you should use solvent-based cleaners. WS means both solvent- and water-based cleaners will work for your sofa.How to clean a leather couchProper cleaning of a leather couch also involves proper conditioning of the leather from time to time. Thus, included in our list of leather cleaning supplies will be a leather conditioner, which should be simple to find in stores or on Amazon. (Important note: We are not talking about suede couches when we say leather couch herethese cleaning instructions could be a disaster for suede, in fact.)Leather couch cleaning materialsLeather couch cleaning processLeather couches are like fancy friends who like to stay polished but hate getting wet, says Forrest Webber, founder of Bear Brothers Cleaning. The faster you can get a liquid off your leather couch using a dry cloth or paper towel, the better. But assuming youre going after more established stains, follow these steps.Step one: Grab the vacuum cleanerStart by vacuuming with a soft brush attachment to get rid of crumbs, says Webber. Once you have crumbs, pet hair, dust, and other dry bits removed from all the crevices, you can go after the stains.Step two: Spot clean stains with mild dish soap and waterLightly dampen a clean, lint-free cloth. Then apply a couple of drops of dish soap to the wet fabric. Then, working in small circles, wipe at the stain moving from one end to the other.Step three: Try a leather cleanerIf the dish soap did not lift the stain effectively, you may need to try a dedicated leather cleaning product, using the same cleaning approach as outlined above.Step four: Treat ink stains with rubbing alcoholFor stubborn stains, such as pen marks, you can try to lift them out using just a bit of isopropyl alcohol. You may need to apply it with a cotton swab instead of a rag.Step five: Apply leather conditionerOnce the leather is cleaned and has been allowed to dry, gently apply leather conditioner all over the couch, closely following the directions as outlined on the product packaging.How to clean a fabric couchWhen we say fabric couches, were referring to a variety of different fabrics, and they are often a blend of several different materials. Common materials for fabric sofa upholstery include polyester, cotton, nylon, and linen, with poly-cotton blends. Most of these sofas can be cleaned by following the same approachthough note that all-synthetic fabric couches may be more sensitive to heat, so take care with the steam cleaning. To be certain that the fabric responds as expected, make sure to spot test any cleaning method on a small area of the sofa (do so on an inconspicuous part; that hidden area wont mind either way).Fabric couch cleaning materialsWhite vinegarMild dish soapBaking sodaCarpet cleanerFabric couch cleaning processStep one: VacuumWebber advises you begin by vacuuming the cushions, removing them (if possible) and vacuuming all sides as well as the couch frame, arms, and everywhere else.Step two: Try vinegar firstMix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and spot clean stained areas, blotting at them gently. Blot, dont scrubunless you want that stain to spread out, Webber warns.Step three: Use dish soap or carpet cleanerIf the vinegar is proving to be too mild to lift any stains, you can apply a bit of dish soap to a damp cloth and blot with that, or try a carpet cleaner to spot clean the fabric couch.Step four: Apply baking sodaSprinkling a generous layer of baking soda over stubborn stains and then wetting it with a spray bottle can help lift out stubborn stains, just let it air dry and then vacuum it up.Step five: Steam cleanYou can use a steamer, the same as you would use on wrinkled clothing, to break up some stains on this variety of sofa. Follow up with detergent or a white vinegar solution.And of course, go ahead and remove the couch cushion covers and machine wash them if the tags on your sofa indicate that they are indeed machine washable. If your washing machine cant clean things up, it may be time to consider replacing the fabric or sofa (or living with the stain). If youre struggling with a stubborn stain but concerned about damaging the sofas fabric, you can always consider dry cleaning the covers, which ensures better results than DIY cleaning (albeit at a cost).How to clean a microfiber couchMicrofiber is often water-sensitive, and too much water can stain or ruin a microfiber couch, says Dionne Livingstone, cleaning expert with Home Spritz. The good news is that microfiber couches are pretty good at shedding liquids and resisting stains, especially if you dab their cause up right away. Assuming its too late for that kind of swift action, read on for our tips on how to clean up your microfiber sofa.Microfiber couch cleaning materialsClean microfiber clothRubbing alcoholMild detergentUpholstery wipesMicrofiber couch cleaning processStep one: Vacuum the couchRun a vacuum over the cushions. Then use the vacuums brush or narrow attachment to get down into the crevices of the sofa.Step two: Use a lint rollerUse a lint roller (or packing tape) to pick up any stubborn pet hair, crumbs, or other debris.Step three: Use a diluted detergent and hot waterUse warm water and a mild soap mixture, says Livingstone, adding that you should never soak stains with water directly,; rather, use a damp microfiber rag to gently wipe and clean soiled areas.Step four: Apply rubbing alcohol to tough stainsDab rubbing alcohol onto tough stains on microfiber couches.Couch cleaning tips 101After spot treating and deep cleaning your soda, consider this general couch maintenance info to keep your couch clean.Resist the urge to attack a stainEven though it may feel natural to put in some elbow grease and scrub, doing so may just push that staining substance further into the fabric, all but sealing it into the couch. And even if you get the stain out, rubbing too hard may also damage the couch upholsterys texture, leaving a different kind of unappealing mark. No matter what the material, the more you push it into the layers, the harder it is to lift it off, says Mallory Micetich of Angi. Patting, laying [a cloth] on it, and letting it absorb naturally are all ways to help ensure that its not going to sink in and affect as many layers as possible.Target Smartly Multipurpose VinegarDry it as fast as possibleYour immediate goal, if youre trying to do a quick fix for an immediate stain that just happened: Think dry, Micetich explains. You want to get up as much of that substance as possible, whether thats with a dry washcloth, a dry towel, or a dry paper towel.Consider whether to sanitizeLife happens on the couch, but not every memory should leave a lasting imprint. While many staining substances dont have a strong odor, otherslike milklinger long after youve handled any potential discoloration or markings. And while not all bodily fluids leave a visible stain, its critical from a health standpoint to eradicate them from high-touch areas. While there are different strategies and commercial products available for disinfecting furniture, one fairly easy, low-chemical way to do so is simply by using hot steam.I think steam-cleaning is a great sanitizer, Micetich says, adding that its a sometimes more gentle method that works with a lot of types of couches. Ideally, however, she suggests purchasing couches where the cushion covers can be unzipped and immediately tossed in the washing machine for a disinfecting cycle. Also, be careful using products like hydrogen peroxide, which can discolor the fabric.Target HoMedics PerfectSteam Handheld Turbo Garment SteamerThink about how to prevent future damageSome sofas just arent suitable for pets or high-traffic, so choose fabrics and colors that are heavy-duty and will hide stains if you know the furniture will be put to the test by your household. If you cant stand the thought of kicking your kids and canines off the couch, use blankets, towels, or custom covers to protect the furniture both when its in use and when you arent around to keep an eye out for trouble. Also, if youre spill-prone, consider a chemical fabric protectant that repels liquids long enough for you to wipe them up before anything sets in.
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    How Martha Stewart Reinvents Her Brand With Finesse
    I even hear Martha AI is in the works. Is that so?DefinitelyI just got two emails begging me to make up my mind about something, which I refuse to do quite yet. I havent made up my mind about how to approach AI. Its so complicated and so noteworthy at the present time, and AI has taken over the imaginations of investors and everybody. So Ill let you know when I make up my mind. I hope I do the right thing.Youre quite the collectorthe copperware assemblage in your Maple House kitchen comes to mind. Do you find that youre tied to pieces for life, or is it easy for you to minimize and make room for the next set?I havent really gotten rid of anything. Theres some stuff I find that is a little mundane or I dont use it, and Ill sell it at a tag sale. I had a huge one two years ago, and I sold a lot of stuff. My youngest sister was an avid collector of colorful Depression glass, but I sort of lost interest in that one. I still have my grandmas collection of Fiestaware, but I havent found a use for it lately. You evolve, styles evolve, and also the environment evolves. I just dont have that cute little cottage right now where I could display something like Fiestaware.Martha Stewart Omnimedia was founded in 1997. Above, Stewart stands in the under-construction headquarters in the Starrett-Lehigh Building in New York. 2024 Martha Stewart/Courtesy of NetflixIn the new documentary, you discuss the wealth of talent that Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia employed, calling it an Olympian-level of creatives. What was the it factor you looked for when recruiting talent?A sort of like-mindedness. We had a funny testand not everybody had to take the test, but I did give it to people. I gave it to a person the other night, and he failed miserably. The test is: Give me the definitions of toile, tulle, tool, tuile, toyle, and toil. Do you know how many people cannot do that?But yes, we developed an amazing network of the most talented people. There should be another documentary about who they are, where they are, and what they are doing. I often hear that I should have a party one of these days, and get everyone back together. Theres like 3,000 people that Id have to inviteand I have all their contactsso its going to be a big party.This interview has been condensed and edited for brevity and clarity.APPLY NOWGrow your business with the AD PRO DirectoryArrow
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    111 West 57th Street: Everything You Need to Know About the Worlds Skinniest Skyscraper
    Additionally, the AD100 designer found moments to infuse little Easter eggs into the history-making property, should you know where to look. There are the lilies of the valley, my moms favorite flower, with rock crystal bells that sway like my favorite curtains at the Seagram Building, he says. All of the New York landmark buildingslike The Whitney or Saint Patrickscan be seen in bas-relief throughout the property.The library in the building.Photo: Adrian GautThe amenity spaces encourage discovery and feature unique artwork and antiques, such as original work by Picasso and Baroquetapestries.Photo: Adrian GautResidences in 111 West 57th StreetThe majority of the buildings 60 residences are located in the new SHoP-designed building, with just 14 units available in the historic Steinway Hall section. The condominiums in the landmarked building range from two to four bedrooms, some of which include private outdoor space. While design details vary among the units, marble bathrooms and abundant natural light are a commonality.The homes in the supertall are available in full-floor and duplex configurations, measuring just shy of 4,000 square feet to over 7,000 square feet. These residences offer direct elevator entry, views of Central Park and the city skyline, and generous walk-in closets in the primary suites. As in any luxury real estate property, the penthouses are particularly well-appointed, with spacious great rooms that showcase the view and outdoor space. Studio Solfields eye for detail heightens the impressive residences further, with premium materials and hand-cast fixtures by P.E. Guerin appearing in every home. My world is equal parts legacy and imagination, a place where architecture and opera collide, Sofield says. Yes, there are bits of the past, but they are always used in modern ways.A model residence in the building designed by William Sofield.Photo: Adrian GautLocated just south of Central Park, the homes in the tower feature spectacular views of the greenery.Photo: Adrian GautAmenities in 111 West 57th StreetWhile the design of the building is a tribute to New York, the amenities are all about providing some relief from the mania of the city. This starts with the private porte cochere, which serves as a peaceful transition point between Midtown and the world of the building. Should residents need assistance, 24-hour doormen and a concierge are stationed in the entry.Among the many amenities, 111 West 57th Street has an 82-foot-long indoor pool.Photo: Adrian GautThe 82-foot-long two-lane swimming pool is surrounded by private cabanas and lounge seating. Nearby, residents can relax in the sauna or the steam room, or head over to the double-height fitness center, which features its own mezzanine terrace, for a workout. A golf simulator and a padel court are also available. Ideal for hosting, a private dining room, a chefs catering kitchen, and a lounge boasting an expansive terrace are available to residents.
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    New York Skyline: Everything You Need to Know About the Big Apples Big Buildings
    Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat famous New York skyscraper is shaped like a triangle?Photo: Getty Images/Alexandr SpatariConstructed in 1902 and rising 22 stories, the Flatiron Building is a triangular prism tower on a triangular lot in Manhattan, just across the street from Madison Square Park. Designed by architects Daniel Burnham and Frederick P. Dinkelberg in a Renaissance Revival and Beaux Arts style, it was originally named the Fuller Building, headquarters for the Fuller construction company. However, because its peculiar shape was reminiscent of a clothes iron, the Flatiron nickname quickly stuck. Built to its lot lines on all sides, the landmarked tower has a palazzo-type facade that extends from ground to roof, meant to assure of its strength and stability.Where is the best view of the New York skyline?To get the best view of the New York City skyline, get out of Manhattan. New Yorkers will tell you to head to the waterfront in Brooklyn or Queens to see the citys architectural greats in one fell camera shot. In the former, Domino Park, just north of the Brooklyn Bridge, is one of the newest gathering spots for sunshine and vistas of Manhattans landmarks. The five-acre public park opened in 2018 with several lawns, benches, and loungers where one can peer over the East River at towers from Battery Park to Billionaires Row; the cityscape sunset here cannot be beaten. A bit further up in Greenpoint, there is a novel perspective offered from the same shore, a view of three borough skylines at once (Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens). Meanwhile, the outer promenade at Brooklyn Bridge Park rewards strolling visitors with an up close view of the Lower Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty herself.Just over the Pulaski Bridge in Long Island City, Queens, the interconnected Hunters Point South Park and Gantry State Plaza (adorned with a charming Coca-Cola sign) are other free, public options for skyline viewing. Whether in the daylight or twilight hours, a great vista of the Midtown icons can be seen from the many grassy expanses or the cantilevered observation deck designed by New York architecture firm Weiss/Manfredi.Alternatively, if youre interested in traversing the Hudson River, head to the waterfront in Jersey City, New Jersey. Here, the view of Manhattan focuses on the towers of the Financial District.One of the most unique views of the New York City skyline can be seen from air. Helicopter tours of the city allow daring architecture lovers to circle Lower Manhattan for a birds eye view. For those not so adventurous, take a commercial flight into Newark Airport in New Jersey. On a clear day, just before landing, the New York skyline comes into full view just outside your airplane window.From how far away can you see the New York skyline?Depending on the weather, elevation, and location, some sources suggest the New York City skyline can be seen from as far away as 45 miles! On a clear day, hikers can spot the towers from cliffside at New Yorks Bear Mountain State Park. And when driving Interstate-80 in Parsippany, New Jersey, there is a very distant view of the skyline from the road. Both are approximately 40 to 45 miles away. However, perfect conditions arent always available. In Tarrytown, New York, which is 20 miles from NYC, the Manhattan skyline is usually viewable from the 125-foot-high Tides of Tarrytown overlook, framed by the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge (ne Tappan Zee Bridge).
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    18 Exterior House Colors That Add Major Curb Appeal
    The best color for the outside of a house depends on the style, location, and personal preference, Lichtenstein echoes. Overall, she, like other designers we tapped, believes that neutral tones like soft grays, whites, and beige tend to be the safest bets. These colors create a timeless look, enhance curb appeal, and are generally appealing to a broad range of potential buyers, she says. Neutrals also provide a great backdrop for bolder accent colors, allowing for flexibility in how you style the exterior with doors, shutters, or landscaping. Additionally, these shades reflect light, making homes look larger and more inviting.Lindsell Andersen suggests neutral colors that are appropriate to your particular region. To that point, she believes warm beiges with brick or stone accents, soft charcoals, and greens are always a beautiful choice. From a practical perspective, Kantz notes that homeowners who live in warm climates year-round might consider going for lighter colors to avoid heat retention that could make the interior of a home warmer and result in higher cooling costs. In general, Kantz also recommends sticking to neutrals, such as whites, grays, and blacks when it comes to exteriors, and adding a touch of your own personality through trims, front doors, and outside decor.What exterior colors last the longest?Another case for applying whites or lighter neutral colors to your homes exterior: White paint colors have the longest longevity for exteriors, says Kantz. With its ability to coordinate with a variety of architectural styles from modern to traditional, white exteriors have an almost chameleon quality to them because they work with so many different exterior finishes and just about any color combination. White exterior colors such as Pure White SW 7005, Alabaster SW 7008, or Snowbound SW 7004 are often preferred colors of many that live in the sunnier climates due to the constant sun exposure, she adds.Neutrals have staying powers too. The lighter colors reflect light and tend to hold up better, whereas a darker color absorbs heat and will fade and age faster than a lighter one, says Lindsell Andersen. Darker colors show more pollen and dirt and have to be cleaned more frequently. Talk with your contractor about any specific concerns various paint colors may present in your area and to get a sense of what hues may have the best durability.What exterior colors increase home value?A classic white or other neutral may be the safer bet when it comes to resale value. Jennifer Patchen, a broker at Opendoor, shareswith AD that neutral and warm tones are preferred exterior shades right now for houses on the market. As a general rule, the exterior color of the home should complement other homes in the neighborhood, she says. Otherwise, it might stick out like a sore thumb! For those looking to sell, she suggests opting for a beige, tan, or camel color that will act as a neutral canvas that can create a positive first impression for buyers. And according to data from Opendoor, the preference for subdued shades extends to the front door as well, with 44% of homeowners valuing white, gray, gray-blue, and gray-green at an entrance.What exterior paint colors should you avoid?Again, thats a matter of personal style preferences so theres no hard and fast rule for house paint colors that are off the table.Still, paint experts like Kantz recommends keeping this important guideline in mind: Since exterior painting projects often take up a lot more time, effort, and resources than an interior project, I would recommend homeowners avoid picking colors that they arent 100% sure they can see themselves enjoying for more than a few years, says Kantz. For this reason, Id steer clear of colors that seem too trendy at the moment, such as bold or bright shades, and stick to those that have stood the test of time, she elaborates. If someone feels strongly about adding a bright color to their exterior or one theyre less confident it, she suggests saving that for the front door, which can easily be swapped out over a shorter period.
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    19 BestKids Furniture Stores and Our Favorite Picks
    Catching our eye:KidooCrafts House Bed with Drawer For KidsPersonalized Puzzle Stool4. WayfairWayfair has a wide and affordable selection of kids bedroom furniture, but theyre an especially great resource for both practical and whimsical bed frames for your little one. They have hundreds of options for whatever your vision might beplatform beds, trundle beds, and twin bunk beds to name a few. To maximize longevity, we recommend their variety of solid wood options. With quality materials, one bed can last from kindergarten through the inevitable ninth-grade ask for a full upgrade.Catching our eye:Avdain Full Solid Wood Panel Bed with TrundleBrodey Twin Platform BedThese two Pottery Barn offshoots mirror the stately silhouettes and classic character of the original store, with many pieces recalling designs of the past: the Ava Regency collection, with its curves and decorative molding, references Old Hollywood, while the Juliette collection draws inspiration from the look of a vintage cottage. Others offer solutions for furnishing small spaces, with an emphasis on clever, built-in storagethis multitasking loft bed, for instance, is also a desk, dresser, bookshelf in one tidy package.Catching our eye:Pottery Barn Kids Milo NightstandTweed Charcoal Modern Lounger6. TargetThough Targets in-house kids brand, Pillowfort, offers plenty in the way of colorful, kid-friendly wares, many of its affordable grown-up furnishingsespecially those produced in collaboration with designers like Shea McGee of Studio McGee and Justina Blakeney of Jungalowwould be equally at home in a childs room or nursery. Notably, Target also carries a sensory-friendly kids collection, including velvet cocoon seats, rocking desk chairs, and foam-filled crash pads.Catching our eye:Pom Pom Kids' Tent Pink - PillowfortOpalhouse Maddalena Mushroom Stool by Jungalow7. MaisonetteWith offerings from over 800 brands around the world, Maisonettes mom-founded marketplace allows shoppers to peruse kids furniture and decor from well-known names like Babyletto, KidKraft, and Nursery Worksas well as top international brands and boutique labelsall in one site. With two former Vogue staffers at the helm, its selection is as chic as it is expansive (for those unsure of where to start, there are curated buying guides available for browsing).Catching our eye:Fantasy Fields by Teamson Kids Monet Play Art TablePoppie Rattan Bunny Chair8. AmazonOne of our favorite kids furniture collabs right now is on Amazon, courtesy of DaVinci and kids fashion brand Carters. The brands have teamed up to create a line of high quality nursery furniture with classic designs. The pieces are made of solid wood, which provide a canvas that gets cute with the details but avoids creating an overwhelming space in a room that, lets face it, is often going to feel a bit chaotic.
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    29 Design Books That AD Editors Are Curling Up With for Fall
    With a new season comes new design books. Whether youre seeking renovation ideas for yourself or a client or searching for a holiday gift, theres plenty of inspiration in this falls assortment. Here are our favorites from this seasons debuts, which are filled with insights from AD-approved talents, historical accounts from overseas, and sentimental stories about bringing incredible interiors to life.How They Entertain: At Home With the TastemakersBy Pierre SauvageHow They Entertain: At Home With the Tastemakers by Pierre SauvageHosting is a task composed of laissez-faire chemistrylike accounting for a dash of recklessness in your table plan, as Pierre Sauvage notes in the introduction to How They Entertain. Maybe something so intuitive and personal seems difficult to quantify, but this title gives some powerful insight into what makes a great event work. By profiling prominent European creatives like Laura Gonzalez, Sauvage pieces together unique narratives wherein readers can find inspiration for their next dinner party. In these pages, you can glean recipe advice (Russian salad, quiche, rhubarb pie) or design notes (shells, corals, cabinetry) from tastemakers living in an array of chic spaces.Guy de RougementBy Gay GassmannGuy De Rougement by Gay GassmannThe late Guy de Rougement can easily fill a title with career highlights: Consider his 1986 paving of the Muse DOrsay or the retrospective at Muse des Arts Decoratifs in 1990. An academician, painter, sculptor, and ceramicist, we marvel at how de Rougement was able to harness crucial elements of American Pop artbright color and simple geometrywhile remaining decidedly French in essence. This book focuses on the artists studio practice, collaborations, and contributions across creative disciplines, told by experts and close friends of de Rougement to AD contributor Gay Gassmann (who will be holding a signing on December 3 at Creel and Gow on New Yorks Upper East Side).Interiors: Styled by Mieke ten HaveBy Mieke ten HaveInteriors: Styled by Mieke ten HaveYou must recognize Mieke ten Haves name from our own pagesthe stylist has beautified countless AD features, including our recent stories on Blair House and Jennifer Garners California abode. With each project, ten Have ensures an interiors good looks will be translated through photography. In her debut monograph, ten Have shares some of her wisdom by articulating four principles for styling, demonstrated by imagery from four seasons. If you want to learn from the best, Interiors: Styled by Mieke ten Have is required reading.Michael S. Smith: Classic by DesignBy Michael S. Smith with Andrew Ferren; foreword by Shonda RhimesMichael S. Smith Classic by DesignMichael S. Smith, a storied AD100 Hall of Famer, has a rsum that most of us can only dream of. After designing interiors for Michelle Obama and Shonda Rhimesthe latter wrote the foreword to this bookhe was appointed by President Obama to serve on the Committee for the Preservation of the White House in 2010. Needless to say, Smith understands classic American design, and we find ourselves flipping through his diplomatic and residential work time and time again. So before the ballot boxes open, were electing Classic by Design to our reading list.Crafted Kinship: Inside the Creative Practice of Contemporary Black Caribbean MakersBy Malene BarnettCrafted Kinship: Inside the Creative Practice of Contemporary Black Caribbean Makers By Malene BarnettAs founder of the Black Artists + Designers Guild, an independent global platform for Black creatives, Malene Barnett is a practiced curator skilled at drawing connections between diasporic themes, forms, and histories. She has put her expertise into this book, where elegant visuals pair with 60 Caribbean artists to create holistic stories of their practices and inspirations. Not only is this a book of professional profiles, its one of historical study.Elizabeth Roberts Architects: Collected StoriesBy Elizabeth Roberts, Alanna Stang and Christine Coulson; foreword by Wendy GoodmanElizabeth Roberts Architects: Collected Stories by Elizabeth RobertsA new book from AD100 architect Elizabeth Roberts presents a fresh format: interspersed through pages of her firms project imagery, whether it be farmhouse restorations or commercial commissions, are hand-drawn sketches, postcards, archival photos, antique maps, and other historical documents from each project. Novelist Christine Coulson also contributes short fictional vignettes of each project, resulting in a volume that defies coffee-table expectations.BLK MKT Vintage: Reclaiming Objects and Curiosities That Tell Black StoriesBy Jannah Handy and Kiyanna Stewart; foreword by Spike LeeBLK MKT Vintage: Reclaiming Objects and Curiosities That Tell Black Stories by Jannah Handy and Kiyanna StewartBeing a sifter or comber is a point of pride for thrifters out there. Some are more dedicated than others, howeverand Jannah Handy and Kiyanna Stewart are among them. After spending years scouring shops in search of Black stories, they opened their own business, BLK MKT Vintage. This monograph teems with over 300 studies of vintage ephemera and is prefaced with a foreword by Spike Lee. It reads like a collage with context, or an I-Spy for your inner adult archivist.Ashe Leandro: Architecture + Interiors by Ariel Ashe and Reinaldo LeandroBy Ariel Ashe and Reinaldo Leadro, with contributions by Felix Burrichter; foreword by Seth MeyersAshe Leandro: Architecture + Interiors by Ariel Ashe and Reinaldo LeandroThe debut monograph from AD100 talents Ashe Leandro, this prolific volume encompasses celebrity homes, full historical renovations, and more from the firm, illustrating why they have become synonymous with modern classical interiors. With photographs by beloved AD contributors like Shade Degges, Adrian Gaut, and Jason Schmidtand an afterword by Rashid Johnsonthese pages cover Ashe Leandros background and beginnings, with notes from artists and design journalists alike. Note their West Village House project, featured in our October issue!Nicole Hollis: Artistry of HomeBy Nicole Hollis; introduction by David WisemanNicole Hollis: Artistry of Home by Nicole HollisFor her second book, San Franciscobased Nicole Hollis showcases her new projects through Douglas Friedmans skillful eye. The frequent AD contributing photographer frames Holliss art beautifully: Flip through his imagery and find a cherry-blossom chandelier in a stark Tribeca loft, Tron-like neon lights in a powder room, or an electric azure walk-in closet that gives peacocking a whole new meaningyoull understand why Holliss talent and range has been recognized across the industry again and again, including ADs own AD100.Interior Style: MaximalismBy Kristen BatemanInterior Style: Maximalism by Kristen BatemanThe fashion and art writer Kristen Bateman is an unabashed maximalistmaking her a choice candidate for this storied dive into the aesthetic. Lots of people shy away from maximalism in fear of claustrophobia or pattern fatigue, but Batemans historical overview on the movements roots, which lie in 1930s Hollywood Regency style, Rococo and Neoclassicism, bolsters her accompanying advice on how to administer color, form, and flair in your home.Ballroom Marfa: The First Twenty YearsBy Virginia Lebermann and Fairfax DornBallroom Marfa: The First Twenty Years by Virginia Lebermann and Fairfax DornEver since the desert towns midcentury inception as a creative retreat, Marfa, Texas, has been inextricably linked to countless visual projects, prodigious names, and artistic eras. This book examines some select projects and installations that have been organized through the art center Ballroom Marfa, like the infamous Prada Marfa exhibition, plus shows from the likes of Issy Wood, Yo La Tengo, Sue Williams, Dev Hynes, and Donald Judd. With 20 years of exhibitions in the rearview mirror, theres plenty to take in.Ezequiel Farca: StudioIntroduction by Samuel Cochran; contributions by Glenn SestigEzequiel Farca: StudioCiting the late Luis Barragn as inspiration and collaborating with indigenous Mexican craft artisans, Ezequiel Farca is creating a new vernacular for Latin American architecture. And the 16 projects in this book, mainly located in sun-drenched Mexico and California, are showpieces for indoor-outdoor, sustainable living too. In the introduction, ADs global features director Sam Cochran notes how Farcas stark exteriors shroud the organically choreographed spaces within: If mystery is magic, Farca waves a mighty wand.Stone HousesBy Phaidon EditorsStone Houses by Phaidon EditorsIf all humans vanished from Earth, stone creations would be some of the few artifacts left to mark our existence after thousands of years. Though its popularity as a building material has been shadowed by new, manufactured materials, this book makes an excellent case for its continued craft and utility. Within Stone Houses pages, AD-vetted architectural talents are well represented, including Ensamble Studio, Studio KO, Kengo Kuma, Olson Kundig, and AD PRO Directory member Daniel Joseph Chenin.Cullman & Kravis: InteriorsBy Ellie Cullman, Lee Cavanaugh, Sarah Ramsey, and Alyssa Urban; with Judith NasatirCullman & Kravis: Interiors by Ellie CullmanAD100 Hall of Famers Cullman & Kravis have been a mainstay in our magazines pages, and for good reason: With almost 50 years of experience, the firm is still led by founder Ellie Cullman, who has helped define East Coast style. Many of the interiors within this volume are exclusive to its pages and celebrate the firms expert eye, appealing to color, texture, and client preference in the most unexpected niches.Bonacina: The Beauty of RattanBy Marella Caracchiolo Chia; foreword by Madison CoxBONACINA: The Beauty of Rattan by Marella Caracchiolo ChiaMarella Caracchiolo Chia has dispatched gorgeous Italian interiors for us time and time again. Her long-term commitment to documenting this aesthetic has made her an expert in Bonacina, a family-owned Italian design company committed to rattan since 1889. This titlewhich contains contributions from Guido Taroni, Aerin Lauder, Martina Mondadori, Francis Sultana, and other A-listersis a celebration and careful study of the material via Bonacina, from its harvest in Asia to its continuously evolving craft for worldwide luxury residences and hospitality projects. Over the years, Bonacina has collaborated with design legends like Gae Aulenti and Gio Ponti to push rattans boundaries, which Chia catalogues like a true design historian.At Home In France: Inspiration and Style in Town and Countryby Timothy Corrigan with Michael BoodroAt Home in France: Inspiration and Style in Town and Country by Timothy CorriganTimothy Corrigan is, in his own words, an unabashed Francophile. Weve long since admired his French interiors, which honor the long-standing traditions of the countrys rich decorative history. In this volume, the designer reflects deeply on the diverse aesthetics of French urbanity versus rural living. Note the office enclave on page 14, which was originally featured in our December 2007 issue.The Tennis Court: A Journey To Discover the Worlds Greatest Tennis CourtsBy Nick PachelliThe Tennis Court: A Journey to Discover the Worlds Greatest Tennis Courts by Nick PachelliOn the heels of Challengers, tennis is a current hot topic in cultural conversation. Whats seldom discussed are the courts themselves which, sure, follow strict dimensions, but can possess variances other than surface. From the storied stages of Wimbledon and Queens to indoor marvels in Belgium or creative courts in Kenya, journalist and former junior circuit player Nick Pachelli documents the different playing areas that host games, sets, and matches.Love How You Live: Adventures in Interior DesignBy Rodman Primack with Rudy WeissenbergLove How You Live: Adventures in Interior Design by Rodman Primack with Rudy WeissenbergRodman Primack is a force to be reckoned withjust take a look at his idyllic California refuge published in our July issue or the wisdom he imparted to AD PRO in his trend report panel. Love How You Live is not just the debut title from the AD100 designer and his partner, Rudy Weissenberg, its a travel diary wherein their firm, AGO Projects (formerly known as R.P. Miller), puts 13 international interiors on display. From Kentucky farms to Hawaiian retreats, each interior reflects both Primack and Weissenbergs shared aesthetic philosophy, as well as the vibe of its locale.Italian Interiors: Rooms With a ViewBy Laura May ToddItalian Interiors: Rooms with a View by Laura May ToddThe notion of Italian interiors is hard to encompass, considering the countrys geographic variety: The design of an alpine cabin in Trentino varies drastically from a countryside escape in Tuscany. Luckily, ADs Milan correspondent Laura May Todd is a tried-and-true authority and manages to sample all flavors of Italian abode in her latest title, which features low-key domestic sites alongside homes of famous creatives like Carlo Scarpa and Luca Guadagnino.The Art of Gracie: Handpainted Wallpapers, Timeless RoomsBy Jennifer Gracie, Mike Gracie, Zach Shea, and Brian Gracie, with Judith NasatirThe Art of Gracie: Handpainted Wallpapers, Timeless Rooms by Jennifer GracieThe Gracie familys foray into wallpaper began through the buying, selling, and restoration of European and Chinese varieties back in 1898. Six generations later, the business still blooms: Their own custom designs, which have been decorator go-tos for decades, retain the flora and fauna of these original references. This is a mere bit of history touched upon in The Art of Gracie, the latest volume narrated by family members who have overseen the meticulous manufacturing methods true to their business. Detailing the multitudinous usages of the papers themselves, this book outlines one of American interior designs greatest stories and has beautiful visuals to match.Holly Hunt: Fearless In The World of DesignBy Holly HuntHolly Hunt: Fearless in the World of Design by Holly HuntIts shocking that this is Holly Hunts publishing debut, considering she has been on the interior design scene for 40 years. This bookwhich tours readers through projects from Texas, mountain country, the Midwest, and moreis not just a study of the work Hunt has contributed to the field. Its also a personal reflection on collecting, business administration, and branding, all of which reinforce a larger celebration of Hunts design success.Forever Beautiful: All-American Style All Year LongBy Mark D. SikesForever Beautiful: All-American Style All Year Long by Mark D. SikesJust before the publication of our November issues Blair House feature, Mark D. Sikes rounded out his Beautiful trilogy with the release of Forever Beautiful. This title celebrates a full year of the AD100 talents interiorsorganized into 12 chapters, with one home as the focus each month. The ultimate goal? Celebrating the natural worlds beauty. Nature is the ideal muse, Sikes declares in the books introduction, and his position is clear through projects like a sleek, modernist retreat in Aspen inspired by the icy geometry of its surrounding mountains. This dexterity is among one of the many trailblazing qualities Sikes possesses as a new face of American design.Great Inspiration: My Adventures in Decorating With Notable Interior DesignersBy Katherine Bryan with Mitchell OwensGreat Inspiration: My Adventures in Decorating with Notable Interior Designers By Kathryn Bryan with Mitchell OwensA rare perspective guides this interior design volume. Katherine Bryan is, among many things, a longtime patron of American design legends across many different residences. Through her eyes, this volume studies the work she solicited from Albert Hadley, Mark Hamptonwho was not only a decorator but also a scholar in Bryans wordsand other talents over 40 years. Detail shots of chintzes, photos of her children in her furnished houses, and original sketches color this volume, which is also an ode to New York: Four of the featured residences are in Manhattan, three are in Long Island. Her narration, alongside contributions from AD editor Mitchell Owens, proves that this process has shaped her own design sensibilities. In her own words: Decorators are teachers, and if youre lucky, you will become a good student as well as a grateful client.Alpine Style: Bringing Mountain Magic HomeBy Kathryn OShea-EvansAlpine Style: Bringing Mountain Magic Home by Kathryn OShea-EvansPerhaps there are some distinctive elements when it comes to ski stylewood beams, oversized windows, and roaring open fires come to mindbut AD contributor Kathryn OShea-Evans uses this fun title to dive into its finer details. Considering the chalets in Gstaad and Aspen are some of the most spectacular on the planet, Alpine Style is a true compendium of resort luxury. Besides great design from Directory members Massucco Warner, Robbins Architecture, Kara Adam Interiors, Workshop/APD, and Jennifer Miller Studio, this volume includes tips for combating altitude sickness as well as recipes for boozy milkshakes. Channelling the energy of aprs is almost as important as the skiing itself!The Living RoomBy the Design Leadership NetworkThe Living Room by the Design Leadership Network
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    Thumas New SoHo Flagship Proves Good Design Is Good Hospitality
    Presented by ThumaThe corner of Spring and Wooster in SoHo has seen a flurry of activity recently, as shoppers flock to a new generation of stylish showrooms (including the first-ever brick-and-mortar space for It brand Jacquemus). But last month, all eyes were on its neighbor, Thuma, as the chic home brand welcomed the design in-crowd to its new flagship at 99 Wooster for an evening of mingling and experiencing the companys warm, minimalist line IRL. Alex Hamilton, Thumas design and trade lead, played master of ceremonies alongside AD PRO associate director Lila Allen, with the pair touring designers through the airy environsand even, at times, getting hands-on with Thumas display of the brands signature Japanese joinery.AD PROs associate director Lila Allen and Thumas design and trade lead Alex Hamilton hosted the soiree.Sean SimeWith two floors of displayincluding pint-size, three-dimensional models of Thumas signature productsthe showroom offered ample space to explore the brands collection.Sean SimeThe store, Thumas inaugural flagship, is the brainchild of architect Stephan Wiemer, who rubbed elbows with attendees including Yaiza Armbruster, Kevin Greenberg, and Madelynn Ringo. Occupying a structure first erected in 1881 and landmarked five years ago, Thumas showroom goes far beyond the typical look-and-see approach of standard retail spaces, instead offering a serene place to gather, explore, and get inspired. Lending a helping hand in that endeavor are features like Cafe Thuma, a hospitality space serving French pastries and expertly brewed coffee (though on this particular evening, rosemary gimlets and sparkling wine were the drinks of choice), and an upstairs lounge where designers and their clients can explore material samples and discover reading materials aplenty. The brands partnership with Uprise Art meant that walls were decked out with arresting works too.Members of the AD PRO Directory toasted new Thuma arrivalssuch as the Essential Bedagainst the backdrop of the new store. In addition to offering a place to browse materials and products, the space showcases the construction of the brands most iconic wares (including the display of joinery on a wall on the ground floor, seen here).Sean SimeDanu Kennedy of Parts and Labor Design flips through the latest issue of AD during the event.Sean SimeThumas Essential Bed was in the spotlight at the event on the second floor, alongside other products from the brand.Sean SimeA material palette of bleached oak, polished concrete, and travertinea surface that is having a moment, according to ADs senior design editor Hannah Martinset an inviting backdrop for the evenings guests, who caught up about new ventures, shifts in operations models, recent travels, and products theyre loving now. Among them: the Essential Bed, which made quite the impression on the brands second floor. The low-profile platform bed, which is made from recycled rubber wood, embodies Thumas clean-lined, light-footprint approach to designan ethos that resonated throughout the showroom. During the festivities, guests also caught a sneak peek of Thumas new loungewear line, which arrives just in time for holiday gifting. (What better to go with a new bed than an bercozy robe?)Thuma is not just creating beautiful products, but also crafting spaces that inspire, connect, and invite calm, Hamilton noted in his remarks to guests, adding that Wiemers design was guided by the belief that good design is good hospitality. Staggered among the plush benches, interactive displays, and clean-lined surroundings, designers seemed to already be settling right in. Good hospitality, indeed.
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    Spain-Bound Richard Gere Sells His Connecticut Estate for $10.75 Million
    Actor Richard Gere has sold the Connecticut home he bought from musicians Paul Simon and Edie Brickell two years ago, Mansion Global reports. In an interview with Vanity Fair Spain earlier this year, the Pretty Woman star discussed his plans to relocate to Madrid with his wife, Spanish publicist Alejandra Silva. Gere offloaded the dwelling for $10.75 milliona slight loss from the $10.8 million the couple paid for the New Canaan pad in 2022.Two structures are situated on the nearly 32-acre estate: a five-bedroom, nine-bathroom English country-style main house dating back to 1938 and a three-bedroom, two-bathroom guest cottage. Simon used the latter space as a recording studio when he owned the home, which he and Brickell bought for $16.5 million in 2002. Other features of the sprawling plot include a swimming pool, terraced patios, gardens, woodland trails, a natural pond, and a waterfall.The red brick main home, which spans approximately 8,800 square feet, boasts three fireplaces, numerous picture windows that showcase the pastoral grounds, and intricate millwork throughout. Up a grand winding staircase are the abodes bedrooms, each of which boasts its own full bathroom. The expansive powder blue primary suite is outfitted with a private balcony, a wood-burning fireplace, and a built-in cedar closet.Register TodayAD PRO's 2025 Interior Design Forecast is almost hereArrowFor me, going to Madrid is going to be a great adventure because I have never lived full-time outside the United States, Gere told VF Spain in April. For Alejandra, it will be wonderful to be closer to her family, her lifelong friends, and her culture. She was very generous in giving me six years living in my world, so I think it is only fair that I give her at least another six living in hers, he explained of the decision to move. The couple were married in 2018 and share two children, born in 2019 and 2020.
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    A Beaux Arts Apartment in NYC Is Transformed Into a History-Referencing Pied--Terre
    All products featured on Architectural Digest are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.It appeared to be the perfect apartment. Nannette Browns repeat clients, a Wall Street couple with five older children and a primary home in Connecticut, were seeking a city base and found it in an iconic Upper West Side building known for its Beaux Arts style, embellished with French windows, ornate ironwork balconies, and Louis XVI-style grilles and scrollwork. The only issue? The apartment was rife with asbestos. We thought we were inheriting one thing but we had to drill it down to its essence, shares Brown, an AD PRO Directory designer. The unwanted discovery meant starting from scratch. By the end of the asbestos process, the entire apartment had been stripped down to concrete, and you felt like you were standing in a hole.Yet optimism prevailedand the early disappointment paved the way for a far more relevant floor plan. Like many older apartments, the familys new place featured what Brown describes as a warren of rooms: room on room on room. The original floor plan was essentially a centrifuge for both the dining and kitchen areas, the living room, and also the primary bedroom. And nobody wants a primary bedroom off of the heart of the house, says the designer. So the first objective was to make a space that was more rational.The rotunda echoes the curvilinear theme present throughout the apartment. Brown commissioned the ceiling art, calling for a bold momentand this bit of whimsy. A 19th-century Swedish oak center table from Jonathan Swire Antiques sits at center, a pottery jug, sourced at the Paris flea market and from the same era, atop it. Above hangs the Plateau pendant by Giancarlo Valle. The metal and fluted glass doors were custom designed by Brown.The nearly yearlong abatement process also allowed the extremely health-minded family to envision an entirely new space, sprawling at 4,000 square feet, with a focus on wellness and a restoration of the architectural details theyd originally been sold on. (As Brown points out, Every single wall came down in the apartment in the end.) The designer collaborated with environmental biologists and electricians as well as other pros hired to advise on sustainable, health-grade products.From a design perspective, the edict was a layered home respectful of the buildings storied roots. Sourcing visits spanned the globe from Pariss treasure-filled flea markets to Stockholms Bukowskis auction house. The wife, says Brown, didnt want to feel like the apartment was born yesterday. She wanted it to feel like she was enjoying the architectural elements of an old apartment, whether it be in New York or Paris. Consider the original 18-to-20-inch base moldings in the living room, an element the client had first fallen in love with but that were all but wiped out. We tried to be as authentic as possible, all while affording us the license to interpret something different, like the moldings [appearing to be] pouring onto the wall, says Brown of her technique, a more modern interpretation of all the formal moldings that had been there.Custom is the name of the game in the polished living room. A custom Rosedale pattern rug by Patterson Flynn, custom Erato sofa covered in Rose Uniacke mohair by Dmitriy & Co, and custom-etched, resin-and-lacquer coffee table designed by Brown and crafted by Carlos Q Design Studio all stand out. The dark brown club chair, an Italian Art Deco piece, is upholstered in de le Cuonas Viena velvet. Above, the bronzed, gilt metal candelabra was sourced via Pariss March Puce.Browns considered approachreferencing the apartments architectural forebears while starting, quite literally, from the ground uptook hold and drove the process. It was both a science project as well as this historical replication model, reflects the designer, citing the many current interpretations on the very details that had to be sacrificed. As we built back the apartment, she affirms, we built back better.Art: Stanley Twardowicz/Hirschl & Adler Modern1/11Holding court at left in the living room is an artworkStanley Twardowiczs No. 2 that the clients had considered placing in another of their properties, but ultimately found its home here. Its a large piece, impossible to hang on a flat wall because every single corner is radiused, notes Brown. She fashioned a suspension system for the piece using customized metal rods via the ceiling and floor. On the coffee table is a piece of pottery by Normandy Alden, while, on the tiled side table, a pair of bronze vases by Just Andersen, acquired at Bernd Goeckler Antiques, sit. The drapery fabric is Designer Guilds Haldon Ryeland Chalk with a Lelivre border. The sofa pillows are rendered in Marly floral by Scalamandr, while the chartreuse rounds are in Lelivre fabric, matched to the drapery border. The midcentury French oak armchairs are upholstered in Loro Pianas Incas Biancore and Chivassos The Touch fabrics.2/11The wife, somewhat of a Francophile, wanted to draw on European influence. She loves to spend time in Paris, says Brown, and always loved a checkerboard floor. For the designers own interpretation, she drew on three different marble slabs (Breccia Vagli Viola, Bianco Portogallo, and Bordeaux Elegance) to create a hybrid plaid informed by old Italian floor patterns. The island is crafted of Bianco Portogallo marble.3/11The dining room was totally transformed, says Brown. The table was designed by Brown and built by Seamus Fairtlough, while the rooms array of seating includes 1960s dining chairs purchased in Paris; a pair of Swedish Lvo chairs by Axel Einar Hjorth, at the ends of the table, and 1930s Hjorth chairs discovered at Bukowskis auction house in Stockholm. Hanging above the table is a Paavo Tynell pendant, Model 1092, rendered in amber glass.4/11The kitchen and dining room feature a hand-blocked marble slab floor. Cast bronze conical wall lights by Henry Wilson light the space. The Dual Universal faucets are by Waterworks.5/11In the den, Brown aimed for snug, soft, and sleek. Underfoot is the wool-and-sisal Sketched Stripe carpet by Patterson Flynn. Purchased in Paris, a 1970s French oak coffee table features raised stanchions and complements the Italian brass/black lacquer extending wall light with custom silk shade and braid, also discovered in the City of Light. A Flemming Lassen lounge chair from JenMod (not pictured) and a Pierre Jeanneret V armchair in cowhide from Gallery BR complete the scene.6/11The sinuous primary bedroom features an inset bed as well as newly created closets. In New York City, space is at a premium. If there was a space in the wall, we used it! A custom built fireplace, with a mantel by Brown (and Josef Frank bronze mirror atop it) and an electric fire by Chesneys, parallels the one that had previously existed there. The bed wall, drapes, and primary bed are rendered in Holly Hunts New Cotton Carrera, and the walls feature hand-troweled Tadelakt plaster, custom-matched to the color of the upholstery. The integrated bedside tables were designed by Brown and feature Palisandro Classico marble tops. The 1930s Italian wall sconces along with a small Italian bronze and opal glass lamp by Vincenzo Caffarella light the sensual space.7/11The vanity room, in the primary bath, has cleverly conceived millwork hiding medicine cabinets, while a sleek glass wallimplemented for architectural interestis designed to be both functional and dramatic, says the designer. I didnt want you to just walk into the bathroom.8/11A dramatic solid marble tub was custom built by From Europe to You. The marble wall slabs are honed Breccia Capraia while the floor slabs are honed and sandblasted Paonazzo. The plumbing and plumbing accessories are from Waterworks Bond Collection in polished nickel. The marble stool is by Stephane Parmentier, and the glazed mottled pottery vase is by Romulus Craft.9/11In the radius-walled guest room, a Murphy bed is integrated into the millwork. The draperies are all very French-y in their design. They dont reach the floor, sort of like an elongated cafe curtain, Brown says. The walls are covered in Pindlers Manning Seaglass and the millwork is painted in Benjamin Moores Revere Pewter, while the drapes are De La Cuonas velvet in Tango. The custom oak bed was designed by Brown, with a fabric inset that matches the drapes.10/11A custom wall in the guest room was built out for storage. I love materiality, says Brown. We had seen this fabulous apartment in Paris where, on these cupboard doors, had been inlaid tiles. We had to create architectural interest. Inset tiles are from the Echo Collection by Waterworks. The Axel Larsson armchair is upholstered in Pindler Plush Pine.11/11In the powder room, a 19th-century sink features time-worn markings. [The sink] has this almost residue-smoke-soot that has sort of just settled into the marble, says Brown, who designed plinths of pebble, concrete, and charcoal pea stone to support it. The moldings were a common theme throughout the apartment. Instead of doing moldings, all the plaster walls pour onto the ceiling[the client] wanted the gravitas of it feeling like the old world, but I didnt want to do classic ceiling moldings, the designer explains.
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    The Worlds Largest Building Breaks Ground in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
    The masterplan of the upcoming Murabba downtown in Riyadh, a new development spanning 7-square-miles.Photo: New Murabba Development CompanyWhat is inside Mukaab?Across more than two million square-feet of floor space, the world's largest building will feature a range of retail, cultural, and tourist attractions, as well as residential and hotel units, commercial spaces and recreational facilities.These functions will be housed along the four corners of this cube-shaped skyscraper. At the center will be a 1,300 foot tall dome-structured atrium with a spiraling tower encased inside. Clad with projection curtains on the inside, it will come to life with immersive digital and holographic experiences, similar to The Sphere.At the core of this cube-shaped skyscraper is a towering spiral staircase that will form its public realm and entertainment zone.Photo: New Murabba Development CompanyWhen will Mukaab be complete?Scheduled to be completed in 2030, the Mukaab skyscraper is part of the wider Murabba districtRiyadh's new downtown. The project will contain over 100,000 residential units and 9,000 hotel rooms, as well as more than 10 million square-feet of shops and 15 million square-feet of office space. Announced by the Saudi crown prince HRH Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, chairman of the New Murabba Development Company, Riyadhs new downtown will also be home to a museum, a technology and design university, and an extensive array of entertainment and cultural venues.This construction is occurring amidst other problems with Saudi Arabia's proposed futuristic architecture projects. The Line, for one, has faced setbacks: Originally slated to be 93 miles long, only a 1.4-mile-long stretch is expected to finish by 2030. From Trojena, a futuristic ski resort in the Saudi mountains, to the Line, to Mukaab, the kingdoms headline-grabbing projects are bankrolled by its Public Investment Fund and are part of the Saudi Vision 2030 plan that aims to reposition the Arab nation as a destination for tourism, culture, and innovation.
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    This Modern House in Valencia Embraces The Bright Side
    Many designers, and homeowners, play it safe with understated, and often uninspired, shades of white paired with wood details. This 1,300-square-foot modern house, on the other hand, shows that colorful accents in the right places can turn a non-descript apartment into something unforgettable.The owner, Nuria, told me that she wanted her home to convey a sense of peace, says Rosana Fuster from Arkitandem, an architecture studio based in Valencia, Spain. But shes also this incredible whirlwind with a larger-than-life personality and we wanted that to be reflected in this project.A view of the apartment with the kitchen to the left and the living area to the right. A Stool 60 seat, by Alvar Aalto for Artek, is in the foreground.Fusters words perfectly capture the two different sides of this apartment, which is also located in Valencia. On the one hand, its a simple and contemporary home in wood and white, filled with light. It embodies a feeling of relaxed well-being. On the other hand, there are a number of small details, surprising pop touches, that give this home its appealing energy and make it unique.The striking yellow hood above the stove was custom designed for the home. The kitchens back wall features Ferrs tiles.The most obvious example of the apartments colorful side is in the kitchen-living-dining-room area, where a custom hood in bright yellow is paired with a ceiling beam paintedin the same hue.The thermally efficient windows are from the Cor Vision series in matte white aluminum by Cortizo. In the rear of the photo, Tea Trolley 901 by Alvar Aalto for Artek.The home has a very peculiar layout. This was sometimes an advantage: It gave me a lot of flexibility when it came to redistributing the spaces since there werent any columns acting as obstacles in the central living area. But, on the other hand, the homes large metal beams made it difficult to install some pieces, Fuster says about this apartment that dates to the 1960s.The living room-kitchen has sweeping views of Valencias Jardn de Turia, a park located in the former riverbed where the Turia once flowed. The sofa is from Ferm Living.Most PopularArchitecture + DesignInside SNL Star Heidi Gardners Midcentury Home, a Disco Fantasy Come TrueBy Mel StudachCelebrity StyleHeidi Klums Lavish Houses: Where Does the Supermodel Live?Celebrity StyleElon Musk Buys $35 Million Secret Compound in AustinBy India RobyRather than work against those difficult beams, Fuster decided to embrace them and turn them into essential components of the project. Thats when we decided to leave them exposed and paint them yellow, she says.The 12.5-foot-long table in the living area is used for eating, gathering, and as a work area.That decision to emphasize the beams was key to giving the 1,300-square-foot home some of its distinctive attitude. Other details continue the embrace of color like the orange-and-white tiles in the kitchen, the wallpaper with a Roy Lichtenstein look in the childrens bathroom, and the lamps with warm gradients found in the principal bathroom.Colorful details bring this house to life.Most PopularArchitecture + DesignInside SNL Star Heidi Gardners Midcentury Home, a Disco Fantasy Come TrueBy Mel StudachCelebrity StyleHeidi Klums Lavish Houses: Where Does the Supermodel Live?Celebrity StyleElon Musk Buys $35 Million Secret Compound in AustinBy India RobyBeyond the colorful details, the larger goal of this complete renovation was to adapt a dated home from the 1960s to the needs of its new inhabitants, a couple with two daughters, ages nine and 11. It was a home with too many partitions, corridors, and small rooms and we have now completely transformed the layout. Our primary goal was to create three independent and clearly defined areas: the girls area, the parents area, and the living room-kitchen, where all four members of the family come together, the architect explains.European oak is found throughout the home.When the renovation was complete, the results exceeded expectations: The familys needs and preferences were key to redefining the new areas of the house. Now, all the spaces in the house are lived in; even the hallways and the dressing room become places where the different members of the family can interact, Fuster concludes.This modern house tour was first published by AD Spain. It was translated by John Newton.It was a home with too many partitions, corridors, and small rooms and we have now completely transformed the layout, says Fuster.Most PopularArchitecture + DesignInside SNL Star Heidi Gardners Midcentury Home, a Disco Fantasy Come TrueBy Mel StudachCelebrity StyleHeidi Klums Lavish Houses: Where Does the Supermodel Live?Celebrity StyleElon Musk Buys $35 Million Secret Compound in AustinBy India RobyThe bathrooms faucets are by Iconic.Dipping Light sconces by Marset.Most PopularArchitecture + DesignInside SNL Star Heidi Gardners Midcentury Home, a Disco Fantasy Come TrueBy Mel StudachCelebrity StyleHeidi Klums Lavish Houses: Where Does the Supermodel Live?Celebrity StyleElon Musk Buys $35 Million Secret Compound in AustinBy India RobyThe wallpaper in the childrens bathroom is from Bien Fait, based in Paris.The powder room also doubles as an entryway to the childrens bedrooms.Most PopularArchitecture + DesignInside SNL Star Heidi Gardners Midcentury Home, a Disco Fantasy Come TrueBy Mel StudachCelebrity StyleHeidi Klums Lavish Houses: Where Does the Supermodel Live?Celebrity StyleElon Musk Buys $35 Million Secret Compound in AustinBy India RobyIn the background, the bedroom of one of the couples daughters.The two childrens bedrooms have identical access to a shared bathroom.Most PopularArchitecture + DesignInside SNL Star Heidi Gardners Midcentury Home, a Disco Fantasy Come TrueBy Mel StudachCelebrity StyleHeidi Klums Lavish Houses: Where Does the Supermodel Live?Celebrity StyleElon Musk Buys $35 Million Secret Compound in AustinBy India RobyA view into kitchen from one of the childrens rooms.
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    57 Best Housewarming Gifts Guaranteed to Get You Welcomed Back
    Whether its a fresh apartment, first-time home purchase, or college dorm, the best housewarming gifts should be useful. And it doesnt hurt when the present elevates their homes style along the way. With that in mind, weve rounded up what we consider to be the best housewarming gifts at a variety of price pointsmany of which we often turn to ourselves. Youll find thoughtful and practical items like houseplants, weighted blankets, candleholders, and more to usher in the new chapter in your friends or family members life. Were partial to all of the gifts on this list, but here are some of our absolute favorites:Top PicksBest cookware gift: Made In Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven, $299 from Made InBest budget-friendly gift: Le Creuset Signature Stoneware Oil & Vinegar Set, $52 from AmazonBest cozy gift: Bearaby Cotton Napper, $249 from BearabyBest gadget gift: SMEG Slice Toaster, $200 from AmazonBest glassware gift: Sophie Lou Jacobsen Cosmo Coupe Set, $150 from Sophie Lou JacobsenBest plant gift: Money Tree Plant, $74 from The SillBest splurge: KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer, $350 from AmazonRead on to get inspired by the best housewarming gifts that will up their tabletop situation or home decor.Gifts Under $50Beeswax Taper CandlesIf your loved one is throwing a dinner party, beeswax taper candles are in order. Long-lasting and non-toxic, they compliment a wide range of decor and have a sweet, subtle scent.West Elm Organic Metal Taper HolderShould your friend need taper holders to go with them, these organic metal ones from West Elm would look handsome on just about any mantel or tabletop. (Finishes include light and dark brass.)The Company Store Textured Stripe Napkins (Set of 4)You cant go wrong with a set of cotton napkins, especially when theyre woven with go-with-everything stripes. These ones are yarn-dyed and prewashed, giving them a handmade feel thatll only get softer with use.Sabatier Wooden SpoonFirst-time apartment renters will welcome just about any kitchen staple, like this sturdy slotted spoon that wont scratch their new cookware.Victoria Cast Iron SkilletSpeaking of cookware, a cast-iron skillet is another highly giftable choice. This Amazon find is a bestseller, with thousands of rave reviews (and even a glowing endorsement from Epicurious).Boy Smells Hinoki Fantme CandleIf they havent decided on a signature scent for their new abode, Boy Smells Hinoki Fantme is a uniquely wood-based scent that will curate a warm and earthy vibe.East Fork The MugAfter a chaotic move, your friend might be left with mismatched drinkware. Give them a fresh start with a few of East Forks elegant 12-ounce mugs. Seen here in a deep wine hue, the set is also available in 11 other shades. (And there are matching bowls and plates, should you feel inclined to add on.)Revival Molecule DoormatThe best doormats on the market can freshen up their doorway. Case in point: Revival Rugs minimalist version. This mat is handmade of coir and gets an artful touch from contrasting blocks of maroon and navy hues.Le Creuset Heart Salt & Pepper Shaker SetThis is the sweetest set of salt and pepper shakers weve seen in a while. The set is available in white, light lavender, or (as is appropriate for anything heart-shaped) red.ArticleLukt Seagrass Small BasketWe love a gorgeous basket. They do double duty as storage and decor and they can be used just about everywhere. This high-quality find is a perfect housewarming gift on its own, but you can assemble your own custom gift basket by adding additional treats. (Think a throw blanket, a bottle of wine and wineglasses, or a cutting board and artisanal cheesesanything goes!)Peugeot Bistro Salt MillA punchy salt or pepper mill from Peugeota staple in French bistrosis as functional as it is beautiful. The durable stainless-steel grinding mechanism is housed in beechwood and finished in a range of high-gloss paints, from saffron yellow to forest green.Toyo Y-350 Steel Mountain Tool BoxIts not often that we come across an actually attractive tool box. This model from Japanese brand Toyo is just the right size for essentials, from screwdrivers to levels to measuring tapes. (Which, after the move, are more than likely strewn about your loved ones new apartment.)Ellepi Klizia 97 StaplerMade in Italy, this powder-coated stapler makes a practical, colorful addition to any home office. Colors include bright navy, mustard yellow, and kelly green.The Company Store Textured Stripe Tea TowelFor those who think dish towels are just a basic gift, think again. Available in clay and teal blue, this tea towel will win a few style points in their kitchen and help them dry off their kitchenware thanks to its absorbent cotton material.CB2 Kira Hand Etched Martini GlassAfter moving to a new space, their bar cart might be screaming for updated glassware. These glasses will give espresso martinis some added flair.CB2 Buchanan Stacking Double Old-Fashioned GlassOr maybe your giftee would rather take their whisky neat in these detailed old-fashioned glasses.Gifts Under $100Sophie Lou Jacobsen Spiral Nickel-Plated Coasters (Set of 4)Dont underestimate the power of cool coasters in a home. Not only will this SLJ set help keep their coffee table free of pesky ring marks, but the spiral design will also elevate their decor in modern style.Gohar World Shell Napkin Ring SetPlay into their predilection for kitschy-chic decor with some delicate shell napkin rings from Gohar World. Plus, showing up with these will likely seal your invite to their upcoming dinner party.Money Tree PlantHaving a money tree in your home is said to bring luckits a thoughtful gift that will brighten up any room. Plus its pet-friendly for acquaintances with furry friends.Loewe Tomato Leaves Hand CleanserA designer handwash you might not splurge on for yourself is a very good housewarming gift for those who appreciate the finer things in life. This succulent scent will channel summer during all seasons.Zia Pia Fantasia Galantino Olive OilImported olive oil always makes for a thoughtful giftespecially when it comes in a hand-painted ceramic vessel that doubles as decor.Alessi B Salt CastorAdding just a pinch of salt will feel very luxurious with Alessis perforated salt castor.Le Creuset Signature Stoneware Olive Oil and Vinegar SetA great housewarming gift will ease the burden of unpackingand this Le Creuset duo delivers. They turn the kitchen staple into a pretty affair to adorn your counter. The stoneware set is finished with durable porcelain enamel thats chip-, scratch-, and stain-resistant, and it features stainless-steel spouts. Shop the set in a variety of colors, including black, red, white, and sea salt (pictured).Le Creuset Stoneware French PressAny coffee enthusiast will treasure a high-quality French press, and were partial to this design from Le Creuset (notice a theme here?). Seen here in Caribbean blue, the kitchen staple is available in nine shades including white, licorice (black), cherry, and an artichaut green.Rock Pool Dance Print by Moira FrithIf theyve got empty walls to fill, a cheery watercolor print by artist Moira Frith makes an excellent gift. Some prints are inspired by her observations of the rock pools and shallow waters along the English coast, while other prints from the series feature playful botanicals and whimsical dancers.
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    38 Stocking Stuffers and Gift Add-Ons Thatll Delight Everyone on Your List
    Whether you leave the stockings for last or youre looking to bring an already amazing gift to the next level, we think these stocking stuffers and gift add-ons should do the trick. In fact, its our belief that any one of these oh-so-giftable minis would pair nicely with another budget-friendly item or would elevate an already extravagant gift. With everyone on your list in mind, this curation of the best little gift ideas includes items that everyone will enjoy, from your stylish partner and jet-setting best friend to the picky teens and tweens. Read on to shop our picks for the best stocking stuffers and mini delights for this holiday seasonincluding sweet treats, cold-weather accessories, and charming knickknacks.Aesop Reverence Aromatique Hand BalmLotion is a perfect stocking stufferwhy not go luxe with some hand cream from every A-Listers favorite body care brand?The Perfect Hearts Custom Engraved BookmarkRide-or-die bookworms will totally get a kick out of this personalized leather bookmark you can engrave with their initials, full name, or even an inside joke.Glossier Limited Edition Balm Dotcom DuoDry lips dont stand a chance against Glossiers cult-favorite lip balm. This ornament-ready special release comes with limited-edition Biscotti and Espresso flavors.Reusable Straws with CaseA great stocking stuffer for a loved one whos especially eco-conscious, these reusable silicone straws are colorful and come with compact cases that will fit in a purse (or stocking) while leaving plenty of additional room.Brightland Mini EssentialsYou could easily gift this whole Brightland set to your fave foodie, though we think its a smart idea to spread the wealth around to multiple people on your list.Fly By Jing Holiday Triple ThreatBring some real spice to the holidays with Fly By Jings trio of best sellers. Each set includes jars of the brands best-selling Sichuan Chili Crisps, sweet and tangy Zhong Sauce, and punchy Mala Spice Mix for you to dish out individually or drop in the same stocking.Audrey LeeAesop Cedar & Citrus Lip SalveYou could also hydrate with Aesops lip balm thats packed with naturally derived essential oils to moisturize without being sticky or glossy.Audrey LeeChanel La Crme MainGive them the star treatment with Chanels viral hand cream. Beyond the impossibly chic egg-shaped packaging, we like that the formula strengthens the skins moisture barrier using Camellia ceramides.Kessellate Handblown Glass Stirring Spoons (Set of 4)Coffee and tea lovers will appreciate a dedicated set of stirring spoons thatll ensure their drinks are always properly mixed.Craighill Coachwhip CarabinerCraighills elevated carabiner (or the Wilson enameled key ring) is a unique gift to keep their keys in order or even latch anything onto their tote or duffle bag.Premium Japanese Gel Ink Pen Fine Point PensThis colorful set of Japanese pens will make writing long-winded shopping lists and small reminders feel extra special.Anker Nano Power BankThis best part about this chic lipstick-size portable charger from Anker is that it slips directly into your phonemeaning youre not dragging around yet another tangled wire.Glossier You Personal FragranceThe best part of Glossiers You fragrance is that it always smells unique. Soft notes of peppercorns and white florals enhance the natural smell of each wearer.Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) Wireless Earbuds with MagSafe Charging CaseA pair of AirPods may not be one of the most original stocking stuffer ideas out there, but it's certainly one of the nicest Christmas gifts you can get a music lover.Fishwife Tinned Fish SamplerFor your bestie who loved their trip to Lisbon earlier this year, this Fishwife multipack is one of the best stocking stuffer ideas we came up with. Up their tinned fish supply with a few of these smokey options, and even save a couple for yourself (we wont tell!).Hydro Flask 12 oz Coffee with Flex Sip LidThis trusty stainless steel water bottle from Hydro Flask keeps drinks warm or icy for hoursand will look lovely peeking out of their stocking on Christmas morning.The Charger by CounterpartYour giftee wont have to deal with tangled cords anymore thanks to this retractable charger from new brand Counterpart. Its available in five design-forward hues and compatible with USB-C devices.The Better Brush by TraskTake this opportunity to upgrade their toothbrush to something more stylish. This one from Trask comes in unexpected colors like tortoiseshell and silver chrome.Cashmere Tech-Touch GlovesTouchscreen cashmere gloves are the ideal way to keep their digits warm without restricting screentime. J.Crews gloves are available in five neutral shades, and there are tons of cashmere accessories to match, like scarves and knit caps.Quince Mongolian Cashmere Ribbed BeanieAnd heres an equally cozy cashmere beanie to keep warm and also stylish.Audrey LeeMalin + Goetz Strawberry Perfume OilIf theyre already a fan of Malin & Goetzs Strawberry candle, its a safe bet theyll also love the brands Strawberry perfume oil, which fuses fresh bergamot and pink pepper with warm musks, jasmine petals, and soft orris root.Audrey LeeLe Labo Another 13 Liquid BalmFor the loved one whos always on the go, rollerballs of their favorite perfume are a thoughtful buy. This pocket-friendly version of Le Labos Another 13 packs all the same notes of ambroxan, jasmine petals, and musk into a long-lasting liquid balm.Tower28 SOS Rescue SprayWe think this mini facial spray from Tower28 is the perfect addition to a skin care aficionados stocking. It soothes redness and irritation and can easily fit in a purse.Invigorate Shower Steamers Gift SetEnding a long day with a nice shower and steamers is a lovely way to wind down (especially in the winter). These scents are packed with oil aromatherapy standouts like cedar, orange, and pine to calm the senses.Company Essentials Silk PillowcaseTo make sure youre rounding all the bases of silk products, you can also get a silk pillowcasewhich helps prevent frizzy hair and wrinkles while sleeping. This option from TCS comes with an eye mask, too!Brooklinen Mulberry Silk Eyemask
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    The Best Coffee Makers of 2024 to Keep You Going
    Owning one of the best coffee makers on the market can significantly upgrade your groggy morning routine to a true rise and shine moment. Why not skip the obligatory slog and give yourself something to look forward to right away? But with hundreds of coffee makers on the market all promising the same thing, weve tested what works and what doesnt for every kind of coffee preferencedrip, combination coffee/espresso machines, pour-overs, and French pressesto find out which ones truly deserve the distinction when making a perfect cup of coffee. Lots of the machines highlighted on this list boast extra special features, like a thermal carafe that keeps coffee warm without a hot plate, built-in milk frothers, or smart features that allow you to program your coffee maker from your phone. Prefer a built-in coffee grinder? Maybe you like the ritual of scooping grounds into a filter basket? Or you want a model that lets you do bothweve got you covered for every approach to great coffee.Ahead, read our thorough reviews to find out which coffee maker is right for you.Shop our top picks:Best Drip Coffee Maker: OXO Brew 9-Cup Coffee Maker, $230 from AmazonBest Drip Coffee Maker (Runner-Up): OXO 12-Cup Coffee Maker, $300 from OXOBest French Press: MuellerLiving French Press Coffee Maker, $40 from AmazonBest Espresso Machine: Breville Barista Express, $800 from Williams & SonomaBest Pour-Over: BODUM 17oz Pour Over Coffee Maker, $18 from AmazonBest Budget: Braun BrewSense 12 cup Drip Coffee Maker,$94 from AmazonBest Single Serve: AeroPress Original Coffee Press, $40 from AmazonBest Overall Coffee Maker: OXO Brew 9-Cup Coffee MakerOXO Brew 9-Cup Stainless Steel Coffee MakerSpecsDimensions: 15" x 8.3" x 17.2"Brewing capacity: 9 cupsDescaling indicator: YesProgrammable: YesPros & ConsPros:SCA CertificationSimple controlsPause and pour featureRainmaker showerheadThermal carafe keeps coffee hotInternal mixing tube in carafeCons:Water tank isnt removableIf you dont like punching a bunch of buttons and dials, youll love this drip coffee maker because it has a single button for setting the time, programming the timer, starting the coffee maker, and selecting the quantity. The digital display shows the time and the brew status, and a freshness timer will keep you aware of how long since the last pots been brewed. The double-wall stainless-steel thermal carafe ensures hot coffee for pouring throughout the day. For those of us who cant wait on a full pot of coffee to brew, theres a clever pause and pour feature at hand: When you remove the carafe before the brew time, the cycle will automatically pause for 60 seconds so you can pour a cup and place the carafe back in place for it to continue brewing. Perhaps its best trick? A rainmaker showerhead that evenly disperses water over the coffee grounds, leading to better flavor extraction. The OXO Brew 9-Cup is the perfect drip coffee maker and consistently provides a delicious cup of joe without a lot of fuss.Best Overall (Runner-Up): OXO 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Podless Single Serve FunctionOXO 12-Cup Coffee Maker with Podless Single Serve FunctionSpecsDimensions: 12.25" x 8" x 14.5"Brewing capacity: 12 cupsDescaling indicator: YesProgrammable: YesPros & ConsPros:ProgrammableSCA-CertifiedBrews from 2 to 12 cupsBrew directly into a mug or cupThermal carafeCons:Bulky compared to other OXO modelsAnd while we love the OXO Brew 9-Cup Coffee Maker for its simplicity, we love the newer OXO-12 Cup Coffee Maker because its anything but simple. OXO packed as many features into this model as possibleand were certainly not complaining. For starters, as a stainless-steel 12-cup brewer, it has the largest brewing capacity of any of the OXO coffee makers on the market. And since the single-serve option is podless (instead using ground coffee), it cuts down on waste. The SCA-certified coffee maker also uses a rainmaker showerhead to evenly distribute water over the grounds and provide an integrated bloom cycle for, like the 9-cup, the best flavor extraction. In addition, it keeps water at the perfect brew temperature. When brewing large batches of coffee, the thermal carafe keeps the coffee warm (actually hot) without the need for a hot plate.Best French Press: MuellerLiving French Press Coffee MakerMueller French Press Coffee Maker 34ozSpecsDimensions: 4.17"D x 7.05"W x 8.25"HBrewing capacity: 34 ouncesDescaling indicator: NoProgrammable: NoPros & ConsPros:Retains heat for long periods of timeCreates rich flavorDoesnt require electricityCons:Manual processFor those of us that love the flavor of the French press method, the most frustrating drawback is how quickly you have to consume the coffee before it gets cold (particularly irritating for those of us who refuse to microwave our brews). The MuellerLiving French Press has abandoned the need for immediate consumption thanks to its stainless steel and insulated design to keep your coffee hot throughout your morning. It can also make up to eight cups, a rare quality for a French press which arent usually the most suitable for entertaining. Its filtration method makes for a strong, balanced, and piping hot cup of coffee.Best Espresso Machine: Breville Barista Express ImpressBreville Barista Express Impress Espresso MachineSpecsDimensions: 13"D x 15"W x 16"HBrewing capacity: N/ADescaling indicator: YesProgrammable: NoPros & ConsPros:Barista-grade espresso drinks at homeCons:Takes up counter spaceMore manual coffee processThis is the at-home espresso maker of all at-home espresso makers. It has full barista-grade capabilities so you can create the illusion of an $7 latte without having to get yourself to a trendy coffeeshop. Though it might look complicated, its not so much harder to operate than a regular drip coffee maker, in our experience. The intelligent dosing feature automatically calculates and adjusts the amount of ground coffee based on your last grind and tamp, and the precision measurement feature autocorrects your next setup, so you dont have to do the guesswork of manually measuring your grounds.Best Pour-Over: BODUM 17oz Pour Over Coffee MakerBODUM 17oz Pour Over Coffee MakerSpecsDimensions: 4.76"D x 5.51"W x 5.71"HBrewing capacity: 17 ouncesDescaling indicator: NoProgrammable: NoPros & ConsPros:PortableSmallCons:Longer processDoesnt retain heat for much longer than 30 minutesAmazons #1 best-seller in pour-overs, this Bodum is a favorite for its ability to create a balanced taste with a low-waste approach. Its stainless steel filter makes for a rich and unimpeded flavor, and its high-heat borosilicate glass carafe keeps those flavors intact.Best Budget: Braun BrewSense 12-Cup Drip Coffee MakerBraun BrewSense 12-Cup Drip Coffee MakerSpecsDimensions: 7.9"D x 7.9"W x 14.2"HBrewing capacity: 12 cupsDescaling indicator: YesProgrammable: YesPros & ConsPros:Built-in water filtration systemBuilt-in cleaning modeCons:No exterior water fill indicatorYour trusty razor brand also makesa coffee maker? And a good one! AD readers have been loving this handsome 12-cup drip coffee maker with all the necessitiesprogrammable brewing, dishwasher safe parts, brew strength customization, a self-cleaning feature, and even a charcoal filter for purifying brewing water to give you a morning cup without any traces of fluoride.Best Single Serve: AeroPress Original Coffee PressAeropress Coffee and Espresso MakerSpecsDimensions: 7.9"D x 7.9"W x 14.2"HBrewing capacity: 10 oz.Descaling indicator: NoProgrammable: NoPros & ConsPros:PortableSmallDoesnt require electricityCons:ManualWork-intensiveAlthough very manual, the Aeropress takes the cake when it comes to brewing a robust and well-balanced single cup of coffee. Its highly portable, easy to clean, cheap to use and maintain (it only requires that you purchase its custom filters, but 600 are only $8), and otherwise gives your forearms a welcome light workout. Out of all our listed options, this one is the most fool-proofsimply boil water, place filter, pour grounds, pour boiled water on top, and wait a few. Its also a great camping accessory, if youre looking for a hot cup in the chilly outdoors.Technivorm Moccamaster KBGT Coffee MakerTechnivorm Moccamaster KBGT Coffee MakerSpecsDimensions: 6.7" x 11.5" x 16"Brewing capacity: 40 ouncesDescaling indicator: NoProgrammable: NoPros & ConsPros:Simple, one-button operationTwo coffee lids: brew-thru lid and travel lidBrewing stops when carafe is removedThermal carafeSCA-certifiedAccepts both carafe and travel mugCons:Water tank is not removableIf you dont like complex coffee makers, the Technivorm Moccamaster KBGT Coffee Maker is as simple as it gets. Theres only one on/off buttonand when you switch it on, coffee starts brewing. The Technivorm is also one of only a handful of SCA-certified coffee brewers.The Technivorm can brew cup sizes from 10 ounces to 40 ounces (however, the company recommends a minimum brew volume of 16 ounces for best results). It provides two coffee lidsthe regular, brew-thru lid is used when making coffee but if you want to take the carafe with you, the travel lid can be used to prevent spills. Its also important to note that the automatic drip-stop pauses the brew cycle if the carafe is removed.All of the KBGT models have a stainless-steel thermal carafe, which eliminates the need for a warming plate, and keeps coffee warmer for a long time. However, the body of the coffee maker is available in four colors: polished silver, black, stone grey, and off-white.More of The Best Coffee Makers Weve Tried
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    ADs Editor Picks: Gifts for Friends and Family Who Love Design
    Since the holiday season is fast approaching, weve rounded up our picks for the best gifts for friends and family with proclivities for great design: from your picky cousin who couldnt decide on a sofa for months, to your wellness-obsessed mother-in-law, your best friend who loves to host, and anyone in between. No matter what winter has in store, were committed to making sure you come out smelling as fresh as pine this gifting season. So to relieve some stress and cut out the guesswork, weve rounded up 27 thoughtfulgift options thatll show them how much they mean to you (or that might make a nice treat for yourself).Best ceramics gift: Best Laetitia Rouget Blue Tulip Candle Holder, $180 from SSENSEBest candle to gift: Diptyque Feu de Bois (Fire Wood) Scented Candle, $110 from NordstromBest glassware gift: Maison Balzac Green The Olive Bottle Cruet, $130 from SSENSEBest wellness gift: Theragun Prime Plus, $399 from TherabodyBest cookware gift: Our Place Always Pan, $150 from Our PlaceLaetitia Rouget Blue Tulip Candle HolderThis handcrafted candle holder will easily become the table centerpiece for all their future dinner soires. Add to the gift with a British Colour Standard tapered candle set that has a similar color scheme.Maison Balzac Green 'The Olive Bottle' CruetWe think Maison Balzacs cheeky olive-adorned cruet is the perfect gift to give your olive oil-loving bestie (in addition to an especially nice housewarming gift for any new homeowners). This is a real showstopper of a gift for someone you want to impress, says ADs commerce director Rachel Fletcher. I always look to Maison Blazac for elevated and personality-packed glassware, and this EVOO decanter is no exception. Pair with some quality product from Graza or Flamingo Estate for a present they won't forget.Diptyque Feu de Bois (Fire Wood) Scented CandleNo fireplace, no problemDiptyques Feu de Boi is the perfect blend of smokey and woody that really smells as if there's a fire crackling in your living room (minus the extra work).Theragun Prime PlusIf theyre all about self-care, a splurgey new Theragun will be greatly appreciated. The massage device is built with a rotating percussion arm and ergonomic multigrip that delivers professional-grade muscle treatments to any achey spots.Our Place Always PanOur Place is an old faithful in my kitchen, and the Always Pan is a big reason why, says senior commerce editor Nashia Baker. Its durable and deep enough for me to tackle anything from simmering sauces to roasting meats and veggies. If you know someone who isnt already privy to the cookware essential from Our Place, the holidays are the perfect time to upgrade them to this colorful kitchen must-have.The Tinned Fish Serving SetTinned fish lovers will love this swoon-worthy gift set from Fishwife and Fredericks & Mae. Each comes with Fishwife faves, cutlery, and a matching cutting boardto make your next night in all the more savory. According to AD commerce writer Julia Harrison, Fishwife is as great a gift for the long-time ally of tinned fish as it is for cautious newbies. Everything they make is inspired and delicious, but my go-to is a Caesar with their anchovies, or a tin of rainbow trout on a bed of lettuce.Great Jones x Zander Schlacter Dutch BabyIf theyre an aspiring baker, an elegant dutch baby from Great Jones and Zander Schlacter might inspire their next great sourdough bread loaf.Loftie Alarm ClockThough this alarm clock looks sleek and streamlined, its actually full of bells and whistles (the sophisticated kind). Beyond showing you the time, the Loftie clock has features like built-in bluetooth speakers, guided meditations, sleep playlists, breath-work exercises, sound baths, and white noise. Its here to help you finally get some restful sleep.1000 Design ClassicsExplore 1,000 of the worlds most thoughtfully designed objects with this eye-catching coffee table book from Phaidon. A great gift for any design enthusiast, this visually compelling read is filled with beautiful photography and interesting anecdotes about some of our favorite pieces from the Eamese, Alvar and Aino Aalto, Isamu Noguchi, and more.Eberjey Inez Washable Silk Printed Long PJ SetFor her, we recommend this comfy set of machine-washable silk pjs from the brand, which is available in an array of charming prints.Eberjey William TENCEL Modal Printed PJ SetFor the guy in your life who could use a new set of pjs, this best-selling pair from Eberjey is so buttery soft, he might have a harder time getting out of bed in the morning. And did we mention you can make it a personalized gift with a monogram, too?Buffy Breeze Sheet SetRest easy knowing that anyone who receives this breezy sheet set with cooling eucalyptus fibers will wake up on the right side of the bed.Baina Multicolor Essential Bathroom 07 SetThis towel set from Baina (a fave of Ashley Tisdale and our editors alike) can dress up the most mundane bathroom setups. Available in multiple solid colors, patterns, and materials, theyre a fun twist on classic terrycloth.Lily Juliet Green Grand Slam ServersLily Juliets home objects are handmade from resin, sustainably sourced horn, and natural shelllike the Green Grand Slam Servers, which add a delightful pop of color to any dining occasion.Schoolhouse x Clare V. Yves Cast Metal Catch AllThis catchall from the latest collaboration between Schoolhouse and Clare V is a great for lots of gifting scenariosfrom a good friend to a coworker. The most difficult part will be choosing just one from the stylish color offerings.Bearaby Cotton Napper (15 lbs)A comforting weighted blanket will be a perfect gift if your giftee is prone to sleepless nights or even stress and anxiety. This one from Bearaby comes in several different hues, is made from 100% organic cotton, and is available in four weight options ranging from 10 to 25 pounds.Resurrection Aromatique Hand BalmFor the person in your life who has it all, a luxurious Aesop balm will be a lovely upgrade from their current hand cream. This is one of my go-tos whenever Im stumped on what to buy as a gift, I've even gotten it as a treat for myself from time to time, commerce editor Audrey Lee told us. And if youre still not convinced, just know that we even named it one a foolproof host and hostess gifts to bring to your next function.Wekk Speak Kindly Candle Gift BoxThis animated candle set from Shanghainese brand WEKUKU is the ultimate way to spark joy through votives. The best part? It already comes in very stylish packaging thats ready for gift-giving.Host Necklace With Chicken Feet & Potato PearlsThe holidays are the perfect time to surprise someone with a piece of jewelry. This luxurious yet light-hearted freshwater pearl necklace from Gohar World is a unique gift that should delight your loved one with eclectic taste in accessories.Craighill Cal Bookend (Pair)How about a home library refresh? A sleek-looking pair of bookends from Craighill will keep their treasured paperbacks looking sharp.Siesta Co. Tinned Fish Variety 5-PackMaybe they can't stop talking about their trip to Lisbon from earlier this year. In that case, Siesta Co.'s tinned fish variety pack will up their supply with special options like white clams and mussels in pickle oil.Alessi Pepper MillMichael Gravess stainless steel pepper mill will stand the test of time (it was first designed for Alessi in 1988, after all). We consider it the perfect kitchen accessory for adding a dash of cracked pepper in ready-to-serve appetizers and sides.Alessi B Salt CastorAnd we couldnt forget about a pinch of salt, too.NWM ONE Wireless Open-Ear HeadphonesWith a unique open-ear silhouette, the nwm Ones challenge traditional headphone design using Sound Zone Technology that allows for complete auditory awarenessmeaning users can hear their own voice and surroundings while still listening to music. These were hands-down my go-to headphones during the summer because they're so breathable, says Lee. She added that it's also really nice being able to hear your surroundings, especially if you live in a place like NYC.
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    Inside a Stylish Stockholm Apartment With a Dose of Parisian Flair
    All products featured on Architectural Digest are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.Sparse rooms, dotted with hand-hewn wood furniture, is the image that may come to mind when thinking of Swedish design. But that trope is what architect and designer Andreas Martin-Lf and his client, fashion journalist Sofi Fahrman, were trying to avoid when designing the 4,800-square-foot Stockholm flat for her and her husband, businessman Filip Engelbert. Our mood board was very Parisian, says Fahrman. For Martin-Lf, however, his primary mission was embracing the buildings past. In Sweden, people are a little bit afraid of things that look old, he says. But my architecture relates to both a buildings history and its future.The architect Andreas Martin-Lf and Sofi Fahrman, a fashion journalist.The property, originally built in 1917, possessed no shortage of historical intrigue. It was once home to Ivar Kreuger, the disgraced matchstick mogul known as the Leonardo of Larcenists for his Ponzi scheme business dealings. Unfortunately for Fahrman and Engelbert, their unit, located directly below Kreugers one-time abode, had been marred by a gut renovation in the 2000s, which had stripped out most of the original details. But a fortuitous meeting with the elderly current tenant of Kreugers former apartment allowed them to understand precisely what was missing. I went there with my measuring tape, Martin-Lf recalls of his visit to the domestic time capsule, which he describes as Rothschild-style for its dark-stained wood-paneled walls, carved door frames, and grand staircase reminiscent of those in Gilded Age Manhattan mansions.Such drama may seem like a far cry from Martin-Lfs workthe Swedish architect is best known for his minimalist houses wrought in noble materials and luxe custom yachtsbut his skills lie in an innate ability to gracefully layer styles and eras. For instance, in the living room, sheer curtains flood the cream-colored room with light, bouncing off a pair of amoeba-shaped brass coffee tables and a spiral Murano glass chandelier. A custom curving sofa upholstered with Pierre Frey velvet echoes the shape of the rounded bay windows and is balanced by two cross-hatched Croisillon armchairs by Jean Royre and a vintage Italian sideboard. In the sprawling primary suite, the dark-stained boiserie recalls the homes original wooden paneling, while on the walls and ceiling, cornices and carved door frames create texture. The patterns are based on ones I found upstairs, Martin-Lf says. We brought the house to life by having a strong connection to its history.While much of the kitchen echoes the white and gray hues of the marble countertops, including the dove gray cabinets and white pendant lamps by Apparatus, it is the caramel-hued woodin the form of oak parquet floors, Pierre Jeanneret dining chairs, and stained oak bistro tables by Hanna Wessmanthat really adds a sense of warmth to the space. An abstract glass sculpture by Rina Eide Lvaasen sits on a plinth by the window.In the kitchen, the designer even recreated the original marquetry wood floor, though there were also structural reasons for ripping up and replacing the parquet. The solid marble countertopa heavily veined white stone from Portugal that matches the dove gray cabinetsrequired Martin-Lf to install reinforcements to support its weight. (A similar procedure was required to accommodate the capacious freestanding marble tub in wood-lined the primary ensuite.)For Fahrman, it was important to get the kitchen just right. She and Engelbert have a large, blended family, and they wanted to make sure there was space to keep everyone close. Filip has three kids, I have a daughter, and we have one son together, she explains. On weeknights, between the kitchen island and built-in benches with scalloped-edge tables by Hanna Wessman, there is room for everyone to pull up a chair. But for holidayswhen both of their extended families are overthey needed to get creative to fit everyone in at once. In the dining room, a grand salon with a custom bar cabinet, pendant lights from Apparatus, and hand-painted de Gournay wall covering depicting climbing vines and perched birds, their solution was to eschew a single long table in favor of a series of small ones. The circular pedestal tables, complete with cozy loveseats and wire chairs by Warren Platner, are scattered around the room like a Parisian bistro. Its quite Swedish, you know, reflects Martin-Lf on the decision. Were not super formal people.1/13Maria Miesenbergers sculpture, Leap of Faith, basks in the sun in front of the living room window.2/13Soft curves and luxe materials set the tone in the living room, where a custom sofa upholstered with velvet Pierre Frey fabric dialogues with a pair of bespoke tables in brass and a vintage Murano glass chandelier.3/13Martin-Lf layered contemporary and vintage pieces in the peaceful, light-filled living room. That included custom furniture like a softly curving sofa, amoeba-shaped brass coffee tables, and spotlights from his own lighting brand, Untitledas well as impressive auction finds like a pair of Croisillon armchairs by French master Jean Royre, a vintage Italian sideboard, and a spiral Murano glass chandelier.4/13Martin-Lf was forced to rip up the kitchen floors to install reinforcements able to support the massive Estremoz marble countertops.5/13One of my best friends, Hanna Wessman, makes amazing bespoke furniture, says Fahrman. I love knowing that she made these tables in our kitchen. Above, they hung a dainty pendant lamp from New York lighting studio Apparatus.6/13The view from the dining roomdecorated with a hand-painted wall covering from de Gournayinto the homes main foyer, whose floor is composed of a custom-made stone pattern of Swedish, Belgian, and Portuguese limestone.7/13Instead of a single long table, Fahrman and her family opted for clusters of smaller, glossy wooden bistro-style tables by Hanna Wessman in the dining room, which they matched with custom sofas upholstered in mohair velvet by Pierre Frey and wire stools by Warren Platner. Above each table is an Apparatus pendant lamp.8/13Martin-Lf designed a bespoke bar cabinet in a cool shade of dove gray for the dining room, whose walls are covered in hand-painted de Gournay wallpaper.9/13In the tranquil primary suite, a bespoke upholstered bed and side table by Hanna Wessman. Above hangs an abstract painting by the contemporary artist Karl Norin.10/13Light floods into the primary suite through tripartite curved windows, illuminating a vintage vanity and 969 chair by Gio Ponti. On the right, a floor lamp by Gubi.11/13The chocolate-toned stained elm walls in the walk-in closet were designed to evoke the apartments original 1917 aesthetic, which was inspired by grand Manhattan mansions of the early 20th century.12/13From the beginning, Sofi wanted a big freestanding bathtub, reveals Martin-Lf, who commissioned the massive soaker tub, floors, and freestanding sink out of white Estremoz marble.13/13For me, storage is the most important thing in a kids room, says Fahrman. But we also wanted them to be fun. A custom bunk bed, set inside an arched casing, is flanked by two floor-to-ceiling shelves holding books and toys. A butter yellow Jean Prouv chair from Vitra sits next to the window.
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    Sydney Sweeneys Homes: Heres Where the Rising Star Owns Property
    Sydney Sweeneys homes are a testament to her talent and drive. The Spokane, Washington, native is seemingly everywhere these days, with a list of roles spanning genresrom-com (Anyone But You), action (Madame Web), horror (Immaculate), and, soon, biopic (the as-yet-untitled film about female boxer Christy Martin). Before she made it big, however, Sweeney and her family moved to LA when she was 13 in hopes of launching her career, but things got off to a rocky start. We lived in one room, she said in a Hollywood Reporter profile of the motel where they lived. My mom and I shared a bed and my dad and little brother shared a couch. These days, Sweeneys fortune has turned, and shes used her newfound wealth to help her family. She paid off her moms mortgage, flew her grandparents to Italy to visit her on set, and bought her uncles dream boat for the family lake, she shared with Glamour. I come from a family where I saw my parents lose everything, and I am terrified of that, she said, referring to her parents bankruptcy. That fear will always be instilled in me. Im a huge saver. I dont just go and spend money. I like to invest. I like real estate. Below, were sharing a little glimpse into Sweeneys growing portfolio of properties, which will undoubtedly keep expanding as her star continues to rise.Tudor-style Westwood homeAfter spending several years in LA, Sweeney was still struggling to make it big. She had bit parts on shows like Greys Anatomy and Pretty Little Liars, but it wasnt until 2018 when her career really began to see traction with the lead role on Netflixs Everything Sucks! and a small but memorable part on The Handmaids Tale. Then, in 2019, she landed a role on Euphoria opposite Zendaya, Hunter Schafer, and other up-and-comers, catapulting her to a new level of fame. Two years later, Sweeney paid $3 million for her first home, a historic Tudor-style house in Westwood. I always thought that when I turned 18, Id have all this money and Id buy back my parents house and put them all back together again. And I never was able to, and I never did, she told The Associated Press that same year. So now being able to be in a house is such an incredible, humbling, amazing accomplishment that I still cant believe I was able to pull off. The dwelling, originally built in 1933, features a unique double A-frame that houses five bedrooms and four bathrooms spread across 3,200 square feet. It also boasts vaulted wood beam ceilings and original brick fireplaces. One of its most unique features? A funicular cable railway system that helps transport guests from the base of the hill its perched on to the front door. Sweeney fittingly refers to this charming home as Snow Whites chteau.Generational family homeThe following year, Sweeney reportedly repurchased her generational family home, she revealed during an episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show. My great-grandma had this beautiful house, its a two-bedroom, cute house that they lived in, she said. My grandma was born in it, my mom was born in it, and then as the kids got older, they built on the property another home. Sweeney explained that after her great-grandfather passed away and as her great-grandmother got older, they simply couldnt afford to hold onto the property anymore. Thats when the White Lotus star decided to step in. Last year, I called up the owners and I said, I want to buy my great-grandmas house back. She did, and now, she shared with Clarkson, shes got the best neighbors. My grandy still lives in the house next door, so Im neighbors with my grandy now, she said, reaferring to her grandmother. Details of the property itself are not readily available.Shop Open DoorLove celebrity homes? Shop some of our favorites from Diplo, Sofa Vergara, Sienna Miller and more.SHOP THE EDITBel-Air estateIn 2023, Sweeney paid $6.2 million for a fixer-upper property in Bel-Air. The 1930s estate oozes old-school Hollywood glamour, consisting of a 4,477-square-foot mansion set on 1.25 acres. Sweeney reportedly won the residence in a bidding war. It was last sold in 1984, and it previously belonged to the son of Hollywood screenwriter Delmer Daves, who became famous in Hollywoods Golden Age of the 40s and 50s. The two-story house boasts five bedrooms and four bathrooms and is currently covered by a web of persistent vines; theres also a separate guesthouse and pool, in addition to a (currently) overgrown garden. Well fix it up as much as we can without hurting any of it, Sweeney told Glamour of the renovation process. I dont want anyone to walk in and be like, Oh, when did you redo this? I want it to feel timeless, like it is. When the time is right, Sweeney will no doubt outfit the home stylishly and in keeping with the Old Hollywood aestheticshe does, after all, have an unexpected love for antique furniture and cars.Florida mansionOne year later, the Sharp Objects star dropped $13.5 million for an oceanfront compound in Florida, just outside of Key West. Sweeneys latest real estate purchase features six bedrooms and eight bathrooms spread across 7,720 square feet, with a 330-gallon aquarium, a 520-bottle wine room, a chefs kitchen, a home gym, and a game room. Images of the property reveal a large infinity pool with a swim-up bar and an attached spa, with a spacious back deck surrounded by tall palm trees. It also appears that there is a private boat launch.
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    Can You Pass Martha Stewarts Toile Test? AD Catches Up With the Icon
    Turn on the TV, and see what he watched last.The watch historythat is a good one, Martha!I have done that many times, and it is crazy what you find.The documentary also highlights the wealth of talent that Martha Stewart Omnimedia employed, calling it an Olympian-level of creatives. What was the it factor you looked for when recruiting talent?A sort of like-mindedness. We had a funny testand not everybody had to take the test, but I did give it to people. I gave it to a person the other night, and he failed miserably. The test is: Give me the definitions of toile, tulle, tool, tuile, toyle, and toil. Do you know how many people cannot do that?Martha: The Cookbook: 100 Favorite Recipes, with Lessons and Stories from My KitchenSpeaking of like-mindedness, were obsessed with your basket house. Do you have any other offbeat spaces wed be surprised to discover?If you saw my dish basement, you would be very jealous. Its lined with many, many, many shelves, and thats where the masses of glass, silver, and crystal are housed. And the piles of potteryyou would love. Its like my own personal prop house. All of that will be in my autobiography.I cant wait. Were two years out from that one hitting bookshelves, right?Yes, I just signed the contract. Its scary because I have two years to have it signed, sealed, and delivered.
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    Best Early Black Friday Mattress Deals of 2024: Tried and Tested
    AD-favorite brands like Saatva, Nectar, and Helix are teasing the best Black Friday mattress deals with incredible discounts and free accessories. If youve been holding out until November 29th for holiday price cuts but need a new mattress now, you dont have to waitcurrent deals save you hundreds (even thousands) at checkout. Still, well keep you posted on price changes here as the years most anticipated mattress sales kick off in the coming weeks.Our Top Picks for the Best Black Friday Mattress DealsHelix Midnight Luxe: $2,374, now $1,899Saatva Classic: $2,095, now $1,781Nectar Memory Foam: $1,563, now $649DreamCloud Premier: $2,196, now $949The WinkBed: $1,799, now $1,499Nolah Evolution: $2,499, now $1,749Bear Elite Hybrid: $2,305, now $1,499Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe: $2,265, now $1,699Birch Natural Luxe: $2,624, now $2,099Plank Firm Luxe: $1,332; now $999Leesa Sapria Chill: $2,159, now $1,727Helix20% off sitewide with code FALLSALE20 at checkoutHelix Midnight LuxeTake 20% off all Helix mattresses during the Fall Into Bed sale, including our favorite, the Helix Midnight Luxe. Pillowy, luxurious, and breathable were words we used to describe it. The bed somehow manages to be supportive and soft at the same time. As contributor Gabriela Ulloa said, It allows me to dance between sleeping on a mattress that is actually supportive and one that mimics the feeling of a warm hug. During cozy season, what could be better?SaatvaSave hundreds when you spend $1,000Saatva ClassicSaatva is cutting hundreds off the cost of your cart when you spend $1,000 or more. That means savings on luxury favorites like the Saatva Classic and Loom & Leaf. The Saatva Classic is offered in three firmness modelsplush soft, luxury firm, and firmwith the plush soft drawing rave reviews from our team. The memory foam Loom & Leaf is another popular choice from Saatva. AD contributor Bailey Berg said, Im a stomach and back sleeper, whereas [my boyfriend] is a strict side sleeper, and we both mentioned feeling like it was the perfect amount of support to relieve pressure. Plus, we cant complain about the brands complimentary in-home setup and old mattress removal.NectarUp to 50% off sitewideNectar Memory FoamNectar is offering one of the deepest discounts weve seen this season: up to 50% off sitewide, including its collection of memory foam and hybrid mattresses. That drops the price of the Nectar Memory Foam mattress to just $649 for a queen size. Add this bed to your list if you crave the contouring hug of memory foam but dont want to pay Tempur-Pedic prices. AD senior SEO manager Katie Henwood said of the Nectar Premier, It offers extra support without sacrificing comfort, and getting into bed each night is like falling into a cloud. Its the best memory foam mattress Ive triedit cancels out any movement so you can sleep peacefully through the night regardless of what is going on around you. Do you need any more convincing?DreamCloudUp to 50% off mattressesDreamCloud Premier HybridDreamCloud is also slashing its mattress prices by up to 50%, meaning you can snag a queen size of its namesake hybrid mattress for just $665. The medium-firm feel is a win for couples who want a middle-of-the-road firmness, and the hybrid construction helps keep things cool if you run hot at night. Want to upgrade to a cashmere blend cover and extra support? The DreamCloud Premier is only $949 for a queen size this season, and the top-of-the-line DreamCloud Premier Rest is only $1,299 (down from $2,231).WinkBedsTake $300 off any mattressThe WinkBedWinkBeds is offering $300 off any of its award-winning mattresses, including a top choice for those with back pain: The WinkBed. A gel-infused foam pillow top adds comfort and boosts cooling, and the zoned coils offer extra support for the lower back. Choose from firmness models, which include softer, luxury firm (the brands most popular option), firmer, and plus, which has even more support for those weighing over 300 pounds.Nolah35% off sitewideNolah EvolutionRight now, you can get the AD-favorite Nolah Evolution mattress (and everything else sitewide) for 35% off the normal price during the brands Early Access Black Friday Sale. AD commerce editor Audrey Lee gave the mattress rave reviews, saying that falling asleep in this bed felt like a treat. The medium-firmness and plush comfort foams hug the body, while supporting the spine. As someone who's suffered chronic joint and back pain, I found this designs contouring quality was top-tier for pressure relief, but I still had ample support thanks to the coils, Lee said.Bear30% off sitewide with code FALL30 at checkoutBear Elite HybridNot only is Bear dropping prices sitewide by 30%, but its also offering two free pillows with your mattress purchase. Just use the code FALL30 at checkout. We recommend the Bear Elite Hybrid for those who want a combination of cozy and supportiveespecially side sleepers and back sleepers. The firmer Bear Original memory foam mattress is another top choice, and right now a queen size is only $699.Brooklyn Bedding25% off sitewide with code FALL25 at checkoutBrooklyn Bedding Aurora LuxeBrooklyn Bedding is also jumping on the pre-Black Friday savings with 25% off sitewide using the code FALL25. Its Signature Hybrid mattress is a versatile option, available in soft, medium, or firm, plus 14 sizes, including dimensions that fit RV beds. Those looking for extra comfort should check out the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe, which is our top pick from the brand. Its breathable construction helps keep it cool, and the pillow top gives it the luxuriously cushioning feel of a five-star hotel bed.Birch20% off sitewide with code FALLSALE at checkoutBirch Luxe NaturalIf youre looking for a natural mattress but dont want to blow your holiday budget, save 20% on the Birch Luxe. Not only is it made with organic cotton, organic wool, natural latex, and durable steel coils, but its also incredibly supportive and cooling. A queen size now costs $2,099over $500 in savings with the code FALLSALE at checkout.Plank25% off sitewide with code FALL25 at checkoutPlank Firm LuxeShoppers looking for the support of an extra firm mattress can save a quarter of the cost of the Plank mattress, dropping the price of a queen size from $1,332 to $999. This flippable bed has a firm side and an even firmer side. To give you a sense of the support you get on the Plank, we ranked the firm side a 7/10 (with 10 being as firm as the floor) and the extra firm side an 8/10. Use the code FALL25 at checkout to get 25% off.Leesa20% off select mattresses + two free pillowsLeesa Sapira ChillWe love Leesa because it makes some of the most comfortable mattresses weve tried. And right now, you can save 20% and get two free pillows when you buy a Leesa mattress. AD-contributor Leah Muncy said the Leesa Sapira Chill is so cooling that it helped her save on her electricity bill. She also raved about the look and feel: The mattress was both soft and supportive, and the height from the pillow-top made my IKEA bed frame look, by some miracle, almost regal, she said. I felt as though I were sleeping in a five-star hotel.How to Find the Best Black Friday Mattress DealsYou no longer need to rely on snail mail catalogs for a preview of holiday savings to come. Start looking online now to find the best Black Friday mattress deals. We already scouted the best fall sales from our favorite brands and expect the discounts to keep dropping as we approach Thanksgiving. Besides guides like ours, you can also check directly with the mattress brands or third-party sellers like Amazon to see current deals. You can also sign up for email updates from your favorite brands for daily updates on holiday deals.How to Choose the Best MattressDecision fatigue peaks during holiday shopping, especially when it comes to mattresses. To make your experience simpler, look at these factors when shopping for a mattress during Black Friday:What the Mattress Feels LikeTheres no sense in dropping hundreds or thousands on a mattress thats not comfortable to you. If you dont have time amid the holiday madness to visit a brick-and-mortar store, weve done the heavy lifting for you. We have tons of recommendations after trying 100+ mattresses, including our favorites ranging from bed-in-a-box options to luxury beds. You can also reference reviews from buyers on brand websites.Mattress FirmnessMattresses range from plush-soft and cloud-like to firm as a board and everywhere in between. You probably already have an idea about your preferred firmness level, but its also worth considering the best feel for your sleeping position. Side sleepers need pressure relief, which is usually found on soft-medium to medium-firm mattresses. Meanwhile, stomach sleepers need a firmer feel to support the lower back, and back sleepers get a mix of support and cushioning on a medium to firm mattress.CoolingIf you sleep hot, look for a mattress with features that help with airflow and temperature regulation. Hybrid and innerspring mattresses have coils that circulate warm air out of the mattress. Gel-infused foams and latex can also help dissipate body heat, and breathable covers can keep heat from pooling under you.Motion ControlIf you share your bed, look for a mattress that prevents movement on one side of the bed from disrupting the other side. Memory foam is known for dampening motion before it can spread, while innerspring coils tend to be bouncy and allow motion to transfer.Trial Period and WarrantyLook for mattress brands that offer an at-home trial period of at least 120 nights. You want a couple of months to let your body adjust to the new mattress before deciding to commit to it for the next 10 years. Also prioritize mattresses that have at least 10 years of warranty coverage. Most brands offer that warranty period or longer, with some beds being covered for up to 25 years or even your lifetime.Black Friday Mattress Sale FAQsWhat is the best month to buy a mattress?For the lowest prices on mattresses, buy during major sale holidays like Memorial Day (May), Labor Day (September), Black Friday (November), and Cyber Monday (November/December).Is Black Friday a good time to buy a mattress?Yes! Black Friday is one of the best times to buy a mattress. Brands often save their deepest discounts for Black Friday/Cyber Monday weekend.Are mattress deals better on Black Friday or Cyber Monday?Heres an insider tip: Black Friday sales usually run through Cyber Monday, so mattress deals dont change much, if at all. Youll likely get the same savings on Monday that you would on Friday.Is it better to buy a mattress online or at a store?It depends on your preference. Buy a mattress in-store if you want to see how it feels in person before pulling out your credit card. While some mattress brands are available online only, many offer trial periods that range from three months to a full year, so you can return or exchange a mattress that doesnt feel just right.When do Black Friday mattress deals start?Black Friday mattress deals are already popping up online, though most wont start until the second week of November or midnight on Black Friday. The best time to buy to avoid sell-outs or shipping delays is now.
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    Best King Size Mattress of 2024: 9 Top Picks, Tested and Reviewed
    When I think of getting a luxurious nights sleep, the best king size mattress is often the first thought that comes to mind. After all, theres a reason theyre so popular in upscale hotels, with their grand design and generous amount of space. While deciding to get a king size over a queen or full size may be an easy decisionespecially for people who share a bedchoosing which king mattress is the best fit for you still may take some work.At AD, weve done a ton of research for you (like personally testing more than 100 mattresses), narrowing down our favorites based on all the important factors for those who want a bigger bed: motion control, support (all the way to the edges), pressure relief, cooling, and more. Scroll on for our top picks.The Absolute Best King Mattress: Nectar Memory FoamAfter rigorously testing tons of the best mattresses out there, we chose the Nectar Memory Foam as the best king size mattress because it caters to multiple sleeping positions, which is often a non-negotiable for people who share a bed. Our testers gave it top scores for its support, cooling, and motion isolation. Keep reading for an in-depth review of our best king mattress pick.Our Top Picks for the Best King MattressesBest Overall King Mattress: Nectar Memory FoamBest Cooling King Mattress: Helix Midnight LuxeBest King Mattress for Couples: DreamCloud Classic HybridBest King Mattress for Back Pain: Saatva ClassicBest Firm King Mattress: The WinkBedBest Memory Foam King Mattress: Nolah SignatureBest Value King Mattress: Brooklyn Bedding Signature HybridBest Soft King Mattress: Puffy CloudBest Organic King Mattress: Birch Natural LuxeAhead, our editors and writers give in-depth accounts of their experiences sleeping on the following king size mattresses. If youre interested in one particular mattress, click below to jump straight to that mattress review:Best Overall King Mattress: Nectar Memory FoamNectar Memory FoamThe BasicsMattress type: Memory foamFirmness: Medium-firmTrial Period: 365 nightsWarranty: LifetimeKey Product FeaturesThree layers of foam, including conforming memory foam, responsive transition foam, and supportive base foamBreathable cooling cover with an antimicrobial treatmentOffers great pressure relief and motion controlWhy should you choose this king mattress? The Nectar Memory Foam is an AD-favorite memory foam mattress with a medium-firmness and a cooling, breathable top cover that hot sleepers can appreciate. It has two top layers of foam that deliver pressure relief and support and a third layer that reduces motion transfer for those who share a bed. While it works for all sleeping positions, we recommend the Nectar Memory Foam especially to back or side sleepers.What does this mattress feel like? Our testers immediately noticed the feeling of sinking into the mattress as opposed to resting on top of it, with one saying its soft to the touch and very plush. They noted subtle body contouring and experienced pressure relief while side and back sleeping; however, they also noticed that the mattress wasnt very bouncy and required some effort to switch positions. It also lacks sturdy edge support, which may pose an issue for people who have mobility challenges. The motion isolation was impressivean important feature for those who plan to share their king bed. Finally, while the mattresss cooling cover did not immediately feel cool to the touch, our testers said it effectively absorbed body heat.What do we love about this mattress? The Nectar Memory Foam balances a plush, cushiony feel with deep support that caters to all different sleeping positions. Our testers said the foam layers delivered good pressure relief and body contouring around their shoulders and hips and did a good job at keeping them cool throughout the night.What would we change, if anything, about this mattress? Wed want better edge support. It felt like our testers might slip off when laying close to the side of the bed, and it was even more noticeable when sitting on the corner of the bed. The lack of edge support might pose a risk to people with mobility challenges. If you have mobility issues or prioritize edge support, consider the Saatva Classic instead.Overall Rating: 4.6 out of 5Support level: 4.5Durability: 5Motion control: 4.5Cooling: 4.5Edge support: 4Shipping, warranty, and trial: 5Best Cooling King Mattress: Helix Midnight LuxeHelix Midnight LuxeThe BasicsMattress type: HybridFirmness: Medium-firmTrial Period: 100 nightsWarranty: 15 yearsKey Product FeaturesNaturally cooling and breathable Tencel coverPlush, quilted pillow top for added comfortCoil base layer provides lower back supportMost PopularArchitecture + DesignInside SNL Star Heidi Gardners Midcentury Home, a Disco Fantasy Come TrueBy Mel StudachCelebrity StyleElon Musk Buys $35 Million Secret Compound in AustinBy India RobyCelebrity StyleHeidi Klums Lavish Houses: Where Does the Supermodel Live?Why should you choose this king mattress? The Helix Midnight Luxe is a medium-firm hybrid mattress that can keep you at a comfortable temperature throughout the night thanks to its cool-to-the-touch cover and hybrid build. The coil base layer circulates warm air out of the mattress instead of keeping it pooled under your body. This makes it a great choice for singles or couples that run warm. The pressure-relieving pillow top also makes it a great option for side sleepersthe foams contouring support around the hips and shoulders may be helpful for those who notice pain when side sleeping.What does this mattress feel like? One of the main callouts from testers was that the soft and breathable cooling cover on Helix Midnight Luxe absorbs heat well, regulating temperature for better sleep. They were also impressed by the combo of support and the plush, pillowy, cloud-like feel of the Helix Midnight Luxe. Contributor Gabriela Ulloa said in her Helix Midnight Luxe review, It allows me to dance between sleeping on a mattress that is actually supportive and one that mimics the feeling of a warm hug, all thanks to the zoning technology that offers a softer feel under your shoulders and a firmer one under your hips. Additionally, the mattresss coils deliver a lot of bounce, making it springy and very responsive, and its easy to switch sleeping positions.What do we love about this mattress? In addition to staying cool, the Helix Midnight Luxe provides excellent pressure relief for the lower back and hips. It also caters to all sleeping positions, and one tester said it has helped with her back pain.What would we change, if anything, about this mattress? Wed want improved motion isolation. People who share a bed are most likely to choose a king mattress, so minimal motion transfer is key. Because its a hybrid model, the mattress is very bouncy and responsive, which translates to a little bit more motion transfer than wed like, especially for light sleepers. If motion isolation is a must, consider the Puffy Cloud mattress as an alternative.Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5Support level: 5Durability: 5Motion control: 4Cooling: 4.5Edge support: 4.5Shipping, warranty, and trial: 4Best King Mattress for Couples: DreamCloud Classic HybridDreamCloud Classic HybridThe BasicsMattress type: HybridFirmness: Medium-firmTrial Period: 365 nightsWarranty: LifetimeKey Product FeaturesEight-layer construction including four layers of foam for support and spinal alignmentIndividually wrapped coils to minimize motion transferCooling gel memory foam and innerspring coils to help disperse heatMost PopularArchitecture + DesignInside SNL Star Heidi Gardners Midcentury Home, a Disco Fantasy Come TrueBy Mel StudachCelebrity StyleElon Musk Buys $35 Million Secret Compound in AustinBy India RobyCelebrity StyleHeidi Klums Lavish Houses: Where Does the Supermodel Live?Why should you choose this king mattress? The DreamCloud Classic Hybrid has a firmer feel and great responsiveness to movement. These features provide a good middle ground for couples with different sleep preferences who frequently change positions while sleeping. Testers also said the bed is very supportive, especially when back or stomach sleeping, and it has strong motion isolation, which is non-negotiable for people who share a bed. Bonus points for the soft, breathable cashmere blend cover and hybrid design that promote good airflow to help keep couples from overheating.What does this mattress feel like? Testers felt like they were laying on top of this firmer mattress, as opposed to sinking into it. They took note of the slower moving top-layers of foam that are cushioning, but offer plenty of strong lumbar support for back and side sleepers. Even though the mattress isnt particularly bouncy, its still responsive, making it easy to move around on. While the mattress wasnt cool to the touch, our testers didnt overheat.What do we love about this mattress? The DreamCloud Classic Hybrid is supportive and pressure-relieving, which is an ideal combo for couples with different comfort preferences. We also love that it has plenty of motion isolation and a cooling enough build to help couples get a comfortable nights sleep. Plus, couples who move around at night will have an easier time changing positions, thanks to the buoyant coil base layer.What would we change, if anything, about this mattress? We wish there were multiple firmness options. While some sleepers prefer a firmer feel, a medium or medium-firm option that offers the same amount of lumbar support and delivers the same spinal alignment would give the mattress broader appeal. For sleepers who prefer a more cloud-like feel, the Helix Midnight Luxe is a great choice.Overall Rating: 4.3 out of 5Support level: 4.5Durability: 4Motion control: 4Cooling: 4Edge support: 4Shipping, warranty, and trial: 5Best King Mattress for Back Pain: Saatva ClassicSaatva ClassicThe BasicsMattress type: InnerspringFirmness: Plush soft, luxury firm, and firmTrial Period: 365 nightsWarranty: LifetimeKey Product FeaturesExtra support layer under the low back to help with spinal alignmentThree-inch pillow top for comfort and pressure reliefAvailable in two different mattress heights (11.5 and 14.5 inches)Most PopularArchitecture + DesignInside SNL Star Heidi Gardners Midcentury Home, a Disco Fantasy Come TrueBy Mel StudachCelebrity StyleElon Musk Buys $35 Million Secret Compound in AustinBy India RobyCelebrity StyleHeidi Klums Lavish Houses: Where Does the Supermodel Live?Why should you choose this king mattress? The Saatva Classic is an innerspring mattress that comes in three firmness levels designed with back support in mind. The center third of the mattress (width-wise) is firmer and slightly elevated to support the contour of the low back. Testers said this feature makes the mattress great for back pain, with one tester saying her back pain vanished while on the Saatva Classic.What does this mattress feel like? We tried the luxury firm model, and testers found it very comfortable and pressure-relieving. While the mattress does not cradle the body completely, it keeps the spine aligned and contours around prominent joints like shoulders and hips. The mattress has strong edge support, with minimal sinkage even when sleeping on the edge of the bed, making it easy to get in and out of bed. The organic cotton cover was not cool to the touch, but it was soft, and combined with the innerspring coils, it kept our testers cool. Finally, testers loved how bouncy and responsive the mattress was and how easy it was to switch positions, which is especially important if moving around exacerbates your back pain.What do we love about this mattress? For people suffering from back pain, the Saatva Classic provides both pressure relief and extra low back support. Plus, the three firmness levels let you tailor the mattress feel to the focal point of your pain and your primary sleeping positions. The luxury firm model is best for those with back pain who still want some cushioning under the hips. The plush soft model is supportive enough for those with mild-to-moderate back pain, and is a better choice for those with hip or shoulder pain because of the softer feel under those joints. The firm model works best for back or stomach sleepers with back pain since it favors support over the cushioning needed by side sleepers.What would we change, if anything, about this mattress? The Saatva Classics motion control could use some work, as reported by our testers, who noticed significant motion transfer when using the bed with another person. Motion control is important because movement can be very disruptive for people who share a bed and can even negatively impact the quality of sleep. For a supportive mattress that has better motion isolation, consider the Helix Midnight Luxe.Overall Rating: 4.4 out of 5Support level: 5Durability: 4.5Motion control: 3Cooling: 4.5Edge support: 4.5Shipping, warranty, and trial: 5Best Firm King Mattress: The WinkBedThe WinkBedThe BasicsMattress type: HybridFirmness: Softer, Luxury Firm, Firm, and PlusTrial Period: 120 nightsWarranty: LifetimeKey Product FeaturesIndividually wrapped coils deliver targeted support to different areas of the bodyStabilizing foam layer helps minimize motion transferMoisture-wicking, soft Tencel coverMost PopularArchitecture + DesignInside SNL Star Heidi Gardners Midcentury Home, a Disco Fantasy Come TrueBy Mel StudachCelebrity StyleElon Musk Buys $35 Million Secret Compound in AustinBy India RobyCelebrity StyleHeidi Klums Lavish Houses: Where Does the Supermodel Live?Why should you choose this king mattress? The WinkBed is a hybrid mattress that comes in four firmness levels. Testers named the firm model the best firm mattress because of its targeted lumbar support that promotes spinal alignment. The luxury firm model may also appeal to those who want a firmer feel, but also a little cushioning. The plus model is designed to support those with body types over 250 pounds, so it feels very firm, as well.What does this mattress feel like? We tested the firm and luxury firm WinkBeds. On both models, testers stayed lifted on top of the bed, but sank in just enough to feel pressure relief in the lower lumbar region. The mattress is responsive, making it easy to switch positions. The pillow top absorbed enough motion for testers to give the WinkBed an above average score in this category, which is good for those who share a bed. The mattress stayed at a comfortable temperature thanks to the airy coil layer and breathable cover, so we recommend it to hot sleepers.What do we love about this mattress? Testers loved how the firmness of the WinkBed kept the spine in neutral alignment in all sleeping positions, which is the equivalent of good posture while laying down. Testers also called out how the supportiveness of the mattress makes it feel durable and long-lasting.What would we change, if anything, about this mattress? Motion control is one area wed improve for couples or those who share a bed. Those who want a firm mattress may enjoy the firm model of the Nolah Evolution.Overall Rating: 4.3 out of 5Support level: 5Durability: 4.5Motion control: 3.5Cooling: 4Edge support: 4Shipping, warranty, and trial: 5Best Memory Foam King Mattress: Nolah SignatureNolah SignatureThe BasicsMattress type: FoamFirmness: Medium-softTrial Period: 120 nightsWarranty: LifetimeKey Product FeaturesBreathable, organic cotton coverFour foam layers that disperse body weight for pressure relief around jointsZoned foam layer thats firmer under the hips to support the low backMost PopularArchitecture + DesignInside SNL Star Heidi Gardners Midcentury Home, a Disco Fantasy Come TrueBy Mel StudachCelebrity StyleElon Musk Buys $35 Million Secret Compound in AustinBy India RobyCelebrity StyleHeidi Klums Lavish Houses: Where Does the Supermodel Live?Why should you choose this king mattress? The Nolah Signature memory foam mattress has a medium-soft feel that cradles and contours the body. The firmness level, pressure relief, and zoned low back support are best for back and side sleepers. Despite a softer feel and slow-moving memory foam, the Nolah Signature is responsive enough to make moving around on the bed easy. The foam also provides good motion isolation for those who share a bed.What does this mattress feel like? Testers said the Nolah Signature is soft and feels like a hug. They sunk into the top foam layers while also feeling supported by its firm base foam. It delivered substantial pressure relief for both back and side sleepers, though our testers found it too soft for stomach sleepers (who need extra low back support). Even though foam mattresses tend to run warm, our testers noted it stayed at a comfortable temperature. Its not our top mattress choice for hot sleepers, but it skews cool for a memory foam bed.What do we love about this mattress? Testers loved how pressure-relieving the Nolah Signature was, especially while side sleeping. Its also a great value for the priceit incorporates organic cotton in the cover and antimicrobial copper in the top foam layer, and Nolah customers get a 120-night trial period, lifetime warranty, and free shipping.What would we change, if anything, about this mattress? We wish the Nolah Signature delivered better support for those over 250 pounds. Testers in this weight range said they felt like they sank too far into the foam layers and bumped up against the firm base foam. The WinkBed Plus would be a better choice instead.Overall Rating: 4.2 out of 5Support level: 4Durability: 4Motion control: 4Cooling: 4Edge support: 4.5Shipping, warranty, and trial: 4.5Best Value King Mattress: Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
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    Designing for Death: The Bizarre Appeal of Aestheticizing the Afterlife
    Design is inextricably tied to lifeafter all, it is the primary means for shaping the worlds we inhabit and making our spaces our ownbut it is also just as pertinent to the void left in its absence, though less widely considered. Regardless of the vast cultural and secular perspectives on death and afterlife, objects are ultimately a tangible bridge between the living and the dead, artifacts that live on in the liminal space past our own mortality.Humans have always aestheticized death in some wayfrom Catholic churches adorning skeletons with jewels and Victorians selling death merch like mourning bicycles and stationary to our American funeral industrys obsession with making the dead appear to be alive, explains Sarah Chavez, executive director of The Order of the Good Death, an organization dedicated to promoting mortality acceptance and advocating for natural burial legislation reform.Immortalizing death manifests in a variety of physical sights, including altars, cemeteries, and sacred spaces, to rituals, such as lighting Yahrzeit candles during Shiva in Judaism to decorating ones space for Da de Muertos in Mexico. Mangda Sengvanhpheng, a New York Citybased artist, end-of-life care practitioner, and founder of BACII notes that materiality of death culture is rooted in the complexity and unanswerability of the subject. When we lose people, its such a life changing experienceits so abrupt and we often dont think about it until it happens, but objects become a remembrance of the people we want to keep alive.In La Paz, Bolivia, which was established in the 16th century, the deceased make an agreement with their relatives to be exhumed, cremated, and put on display behind glass panels at the town cemetery 10 years into their interment. Families commission plaques and decorate the space with artwork to honor their loved ones.Alamy Stock PhotoCultural perspectives on death and afterlife through artAs death photographer, author, and journalist Johanna Ebenstein notes in her online journal Morbid Anatomy, only in the United States are images and representations of death absent in daily discourse. But many cultures and religions outside of our Eurocentric cultural ecosystem prioritize the art and design of death rituals as a way to honor the deceased. Coffins, which were first invented as simple stone structures decorated in feathers and shells during the Stone Age, have become increasingly elaborate with custom ornamentation, lid carvings, and moldings over time. In Ancient Egypt, people believed that the soul could only reach the afterlife through an elaborate system of mummification, so they would paint stone coffins with images of the deceaseds journey into the afterlife.While some religions such as Judaism prefer simple stone gravestones out of respect and little scripture about afterlife, many cultures that do believe in afterlife still customize coffins to facilitate the transition. For example, renowned fantasy coffin artist Paa Joe pays homage to the Ghanaian beliefs around life and death through abeduu adeka, meticulously carved and painted end-of-life vessels that symbolize the deceased through living and inanimate objects. When someone dies the family visits the studio with an image of the deceased occupation or a replica of the deceased while alive, Joe explains. Though 50% of people in Ghana get buried in proverbial coffins due to the changing death rate and graveyard sizes since the early 50s, believing in life after death is a tradition that hasnt changed and is still carefully observed through these coffins.
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    Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers: Tested and Reviewed
    Finding the best mattress for combination sleepers isnt always easy. For starters, this mattress type is specifically designed for people who toss and turn between at least two sleeping positions at night (side, stomach, or back). And even with this in mind, different sleep positions call for different types of support. Side sleepers, for example, benefit from deep cushioning under the shoulders and hips to prevent pressure buildup. Stomach sleepers require extra support to keep their hips from dipping, causing their low back to arch uncomfortably.The winning combination for combo sleepers depends on your primary sleep positions, but always includes responsivenessi.e. how quickly and efficiently a mattress adjusts to your movement. A little bounce helps, too. Weve tested over 100 mattresses for combination sleepers at AD, and these nine are highly responsive and accommodate versatile comfort preferences.In this article:The Absolute Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers: Saatva ZenhavenTorn between a soft and firm bed? How about one thats both? The dual-sided Saatva Zenhaven is a latex mattress with both a medium-soft side and firm side. We noticed virtually no pressure buildup on the softer side, and minimal pressure on the firm side. Latex is also known for staying cool, which was our experience on the Zenhaven. The breathable cotton cover and moisture-wicking wool layer probably helped, too. Plus, Saatva offers a five-star customer experience, including free in-home delivery and setup, free old mattress and foundation removal, a full year to test out the mattress, and a lifetime warranty.Our Top Picks for the Best Mattresses for Combination SleepersBest Overall Mattress for Combination Sleepers: Saatva ZenhavenBest Mattress for Combination Sleepers with Back Pain: Helix Midnight LuxeBest Hybrid Mattress for Combination Sleepers: Nectar Luxe HybridBest Innerspring Mattress for Combination Sleepers: DreamCloud Premier HybridBest Firm Mattress for Combination Sleepers: The WinkBedBest Cooling Mattress for Combination Sleepers: Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep LuxeBest Budget Mattress for Combination Sleepers: Bear OriginalBest Organic Mattress for Combination Sleepers: Nolah NaturalBest Latex Mattress for Combination Sleepers: Birch Natural LuxeAhead, our editors and writers give in-depth accounts of their experiences sleeping on the following mattresses. If youre interested in one particular mattress, click below to jump straight to that mattress review:Best Overall Mattress for Combination Sleepers: Saatva ZenhavenSaatva ZenhavenThe BasicsMattress type: LatexFirmness: Dual-sided (medium-soft on one side, firm on the other)Trial Period: 365 nightsWarranty: LifetimeKey Product FeaturesOption to choose between two firmness levelsMade out of naturally breathable latex foamOrganic wool layer can help regulate body temperatureWhy should combination sleepers choose this mattress? If settling on one firmness level doesnt sound like your thing, the dual-sided Saatva Zenhaven offers the best of both worlds with a medium-soft and firm side. Its softer side is heavy on body contouring to help alleviate pressure buildup along the shoulders and hips for side sleepers. Its firmer side keeps stomach and back sleepers supported with good spinal posture.What does this mattress feel like? With its buoyant latex build, our testers felt lifted while laying on both sides of the bed. It wasnt bouncy, but it didnt have the slow response of memory foam. The firm side promoted great spinal alignment for back and stomach sleeping, which is important for preventing back pain. There was some cushioning on the firm side, but we stayed on top of the bed, rather than sinking into the latex foam. The soft side excelled at supporting side and back sleeping. The latex top layer was noticeably softer, and testers said their shoulders and hips sank in. We noticed almost no pressure buildup in any sleep position on this side.What do we love about this mattress? Our testers loved how easy it was to move around on the Zenhaven, especially on the firm side. The latex foam was very responsive, so we didnt have to put in extra effort to move around on the bed. The softer side was also responsive and provided excellent pressure relief in all three primary sleeping positions, making it ideal for those who switch from side sleeping to back or stomach sleeping.What would we change, if anything, about this mattress? While we wouldnt sacrifice the great benefits of latex like cooling and responsiveness, it doesnt always lend well to motion control (as we found on the Zenhaven). If you share a bed or youre a sensitive sleeper, you may want to opt for a mattress with better motion isolation like the Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep Luxe.Overall Rating: 4.4 out of 5Support level: 5Durability: 5Motion control: 3Cooling: 4.5Edge support: 4Shipping, warranty, and trial: 5Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers with Back Pain: Helix Midnight LuxeHelix Midnight LuxeThe BasicsMattress type: HybridFirmness: Medium-firmTrial Period: 100 nightsWarranty: 15 yearsKey Product FeaturesDense, cradling foam to relieve pressure under joints like the shoulders and hipsZoned support can help promote natural spinal alignmentOption to choose between two cooling coversMost PopularArchitecture + DesignInside SNL Star Heidi Gardners Midcentury Home, a Disco Fantasy Come TrueBy Mel StudachCelebrity StyleElon Musk Buys $35 Million Secret Compound in AustinBy India RobyCelebrity StyleIs Billionaire Bunker the New Star Island?By Rachel DaviesWhy should combination sleepers choose this mattress? Studies show that a medium-firm mattress like the Helix Midnight Luxe is ideal for those with back pain. This particular hybrid bed is designed with zoned support that includes firmer and softer sections to help keep the spine in its natural alignment. It also has a dense, cradling foam layer just beneath the pillow top (you can choose between two cooling pillow tops) that helps cradle the shoulders of side sleepers, as well as individually wrapped steel coils that push back accordingly for targeted support. (Note: You can also buy this mattress on Amazon for extra convenience.)What does this mattress feel like? Our testers found the Helix Midnight Luxe incredibly pressure-relieving and contouring, especially around the joints and lumbar (or low back) region. One tester with back pain noted relief when sleeping on her back. Her hips and low back felt cushioned, which she says helped alleviate her chronic back pain.What do we love about this mattress? We havent had a single tester not like this bed. In her Helix Midnight Luxe review, contributor Gabriela Ulloa says, I was looking for a mattress that felt soft and malleable but still provided enough lower back support so that my aging muscles would get some love. The most crucial factor, however, was something that could hold its shape, durability, and 10/10 comfort level during a questionably long Bachelor marathon. The Helix mattress does all of the above, and therefore justifies the price for my specific needs.What would we change, if anything, about this mattress? We would improve the edge support, which caused some sagging that couples and people with mobility issues may want to avoid. Instead, the DreamCloud Premier Hybrid offers excellent edge support that kept our testers stable and secure when sitting or laying at the edge of the bed.Overall Rating: 4.2 out of 5Support level: 4.5Durability: 4Motion control: 4.5Cooling: 5Edge support: 3Shipping, warranty, and trial: 4Best Hybrid Mattress for Combination Sleepers: Nectar Luxe HybridNectar Luxe HybridThe BasicsMattress type: HybridFirmness: Medium-firmTrial Period: 365 nightsWarranty: LifetimeKey Product FeaturesReinforced coils around the perimeter for extra edge supportConstructed with contouring three-inch memory foam layerWrapped in a breathable cotton cooling cover thats great for hot sleepersMost PopularArchitecture + DesignInside SNL Star Heidi Gardners Midcentury Home, a Disco Fantasy Come TrueBy Mel StudachCelebrity StyleElon Musk Buys $35 Million Secret Compound in AustinBy India RobyCelebrity StyleIs Billionaire Bunker the New Star Island?By Rachel DaviesWhy should combination sleepers choose this mattress? Nectar is one of our favorite mattress brands because of its affordable, cozy memory foam mattresses, and its top-of-the-line Nectar Luxe Hybrid is an excellent fit for combination sleepers. Extra-strong coils along the perimeter of the bed keep you secure when you stretch out, and a three-inch memory foam top layer offers pressure relief thats ideal for all sleeping positions.What does this mattress feel like? The Nectar Luxe Hybrid manages to strike a balance between soft and uplifting, which is ideal for both side sleepers who need cradling for sensitive joints and back sleepers who require extra hip and low back support. The slow-moving memory foam up top contoured snuggly around our testers bodies, while the springy coil base kept them lifted. The coil base also kept the mattress from overheating.What do we love about this mattress? The bed was surprisingly springy given the memory foam top layer, which made it easy to move around. We also really enjoyed how pressure relieving the mattress wasour testers all gave the Nectar Luxe Hybrid 4.5/5 or 5/5 stars for pressure relief.What would we change, if anything, about this mattress? The bed lacked support under the hips during testing, so wed firm up the center third of the foam and coils to better accommodate stomach sleepers and those with back pain. The Saatva Zenhaven is a great alternative for combination sleepers who spend all or part the night on their stomach.Overall Rating: 4.2 out of 5Support level: 4Durability: 4Motion control: 4Cooling: 4Edge support: 4Shipping, warranty, and trial: 5Best Innerspring Mattress for Combination Sleepers: DreamCloud Premier HybridDreamCloud Premier HybridThe BasicsMattress type: Innerspring/HybridFirmness: FirmTrial Period: 365 nightsWarranty: LifetimeKey Product FeaturesEight layers, including an eight-inch coil layer for supportBreathable cashmere blend quilted coverIndividually wrapped springs help evenly distribute body weightWhy should combination sleepers choose this mattress? Combination sleepers who love the firm feel of an innerspring mattress should check out the DreamCloud Premier Hybrid. Made with eight layers, including a reinforced eight-inch coil layer, the DreamCloud is designed to evenly distribute body weight to help you sleep on top of the bed, rather than in it. It also has a breathable cashmere blend quilted cover nestled on top of a cooling gel memory foam layer to help increase airflow throughout the bed, making it ideal for those who run hot.Most PopularArchitecture + DesignInside SNL Star Heidi Gardners Midcentury Home, a Disco Fantasy Come TrueBy Mel StudachCelebrity StyleElon Musk Buys $35 Million Secret Compound in AustinBy India RobyCelebrity StyleIs Billionaire Bunker the New Star Island?By Rachel DaviesWhat does this mattress feel like? Testers found the DreamCloud Premier Hybrid to be firm, but not so firm as to cause discomfort. Its pressure-relieving foams and supportive coils created a blend of stability and comfort, keeping our testers supported without much sinkage. Testers also experienced strong edge support around the perimeter of the bed, so if you need to stretch out, you dont need to worry about the edges dipping.What do we love about this mattress? We loved that the DreamCloud Premier Hybrid stayed at a comfortable temperature and provided decent motion isolation that should work for most couples. The bed also excelled in responsiveness and was easy to change sleeping positions on. If youre an active sleeper, you shouldnt find yourself feeling stuck in the middle of this bed (which can happen on beds with foam layers, especially slow-moving memory foam).What would we change, if anything, about this mattress? Wed appreciate a thicker cover or pillow top layer to help cradle the shoulders for side sleepers. Our pressure map showed moderate pressure buildup along the shoulders. Combination sleepers who spend a lot of time on their sides might find this mattress too firm, and instead might benefit from trying the softer Nectar Luxe Hybrid.Overall Rating: 4.3 out of 5Support level: 4.5Durability: 4Motion control: 4Cooling: 4Edge support: 4.5Shipping, warranty, and trial: 5Best Firm Mattress for Combination Sleepers: The WinkBedThe WinkBedThe BasicsMattress type: FirmFirmness: Softer, luxury firm, firmer, and plusTrial Period: 120 nightsWarranty: LifetimeKey Product FeaturesTemperature-regulating Tencel coverReinforced coils along the perimeter of the bedPillow top made with cradling gel foamWhy should combination sleepers choose this mattress? Firm mattresses are ideal for back and stomach sleepers since these beds help keep the hips lifted, preventing the low back from arching out of alignment. The WinkBed comes in four firmness options, including a firmer bed and a plus bed designed specifically for people who weigh more than 300 pounds. Its sturdy coils are made out of high-grade steel to keep your body uplifted to help prevent sinking too deep into the bed.Most PopularArchitecture + DesignInside SNL Star Heidi Gardners Midcentury Home, a Disco Fantasy Come TrueBy Mel StudachCelebrity StyleElon Musk Buys $35 Million Secret Compound in AustinBy India RobyCelebrity StyleIs Billionaire Bunker the New Star Island?By Rachel DaviesWhat does this mattress feel like? Testers liked the firmness of the WinkBed and the great support it offered along the low back region. Its contouring foam layers added just a touch of softness to cradle sensitive joints. Testers also noted that the sturdiness of the bed made it feel durable, like it will last a long time.What do we love about this mattress? Our pressure map confirmed that back sleeping was the best option for this bed, showing large areas of blue (or no pressure) with just tiny sections of green (low pressure) around the hips and low back. Likewise, testers felt equally supported while stomach sleeping and felt like their hips stayed lifted, rather than sinking into the bed.What would we change, if anything, about this mattress? Anything beyond the luxury firm WinkBed (comparable to a medium-firm) will likely be too firm for side sleepers, as our pressure map discovered. Combination sleepers who spend part of the night on their sides can opt for the softer version instead.Overall Rating: 4.3 out of 5Support level: 5Durability: 4.5Motion control: 3.5Cooling: 4Edge support: 5Shipping, warranty, and trial: 5Best Cooling Mattress for Combination Sleepers: Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep LuxeBrooklyn Bedding EcoSleep LuxeThe BasicsMattress type: Latex hybridFirmness: Medium-firmTrial Period: 120 nightsWarranty: 10 yearsKey Product FeaturesMade with naturally cooling latex, wool, and cashmereThree zones of coils for targeted support and pressure reliefIncludes an organic cotton pillow topWhy should combination sleepers choose this mattress? The Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep Luxe is made with lots of naturally breathable materials to help keep even the most active sleepers cool. This mattress is constructed with latex, organic wool, cashmere, and cotton to help wick away moisture and regulate temperature. It also has up to 1,000 individually encased coils that circulate warm air out of the mattress.What does this mattress feel like? If you like a squishy, cloud-like bed, our testers say this mattress is a great choice for you. With its cotton pillow top and 3.5 total inches of natural latex, the Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep Luxe has a bouncy, buoyant feel that makes moving around on top of this bed a breeze. Testers also noted excellent temperature regulation as promised, as well as strong edge support ideal for couples or those with mobility issues.Most PopularArchitecture + DesignInside SNL Star Heidi Gardners Midcentury Home, a Disco Fantasy Come TrueBy Mel StudachCelebrity StyleElon Musk Buys $35 Million Secret Compound in AustinBy India RobyCelebrity StyleIs Billionaire Bunker the New Star Island?By Rachel DaviesWhat do we love about this mattress? We were pleasantly surprised by the impressive motion isolation of the Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep Luxe. Latex is naturally bouncy, which doesnt always lend itself well to motion control, but that wasnt the case with this bed. Our seismometer picked up on only minimal motion transfer when we dropped a steel ball on the opposite side of the bed.What would we change, if anything, about this mattress? We felt very slight pressure buildup under the hips, which wont bother most people, but may be noticeable for those with hip pain. This may be due to the zoned support (which has firmer and softer sections), so if zoned support isnt right for you, consider the Nectar Luxe Hybrid.Overall Rating: 4.3 out of 5Support level: 4.5Durability: 4Motion control: 4.5Cooling: 4.5Edge support: 4.5Shipping, warranty, and trial: 4Best Budget Mattress for Combination Sleepers: Bear OriginalBear OriginalThe BasicsMattress type: FoamFirmness: FirmTrial Period: 120 nightsWarranty: LifetimeKey Product FeaturesMade with four foam layers, including memory foamWrapped in a breathable quilted coverOption to upgrade to a cooling Celliant-infused cover for $200Why should combination sleepers choose this mattress? A new mattress doesnt have to break the bank, and you can still buy a high-quality bed at a fair price point. The budget-friendly Bear Original is an all-foam mattress-in-a-box that costs just over $800 for a queen size during sales. You can find cheaper mattresses, but the Bear consistently ranks well for durability and other comfort factors by our team. Bear mattresses also come with a 120-night trial period and industry leading lifetime warranty.What does this mattress feel like? The Bear Original has a firmer feel, and our testers unanimously agreed that it kept them lifted on top of the bed. Its dense foam layers helped support their low backs, while providing a little cushion under their upper backs and hips. Since the foam layers are on the sturdier side, we didnt experience the classic doughy feel of memory foam, making this bed easy to move around onan important feature for combination sleepers.Most Popular
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    56 Host and Hostess Gifts to Get the Party Started
    Picture this: Youve received your invite, youve RSVPd, and youve picked out the perfect outfit. All thats left is choosing one of the best hostess gifts to bringsomething we think can be a real treat. Gifts for a host are a special subsect, theres no expectation to spend a lot of money, its not even assumed that guests will bring something other than a bottle of wine, meaning you can really dig into specific personality traitsand we sure did. In our search for the most thoughtful and creative gifts to buy when youve been invited anywhere, we found fail-safe favorites, home decor theyll cherish, and lots of foodie options.So whether its a Christmas feast, an ice cream social, or just a casual aperitivo hour, stick with our list of the perfect gifts to pick up when youre on the guest list.Our Top PicksBest overall: Aesop Resurrection Duet, $131 from AmazonBest candle: Diptyque Feu de Bois (Fire Wood) Candle, $110 from NordstromBest to pair with flowers: Fazeek Balance Vase, $125 from FazeekBest kitchen gift: Made In Red & White Wine Glassware (Set of 8), $129 from Made InBest food item: Brightland The Duo Extra Virgin Olive Oils, $74 from BrightlandBest gift under $50: Apotheke Sea Salt Grapefruit Candle, $44 from AmazonThe FoolproofsThe name says it allshowing up with one of these gifts is all but a guarantee youll be getting invited to every and all functions to come. Dont think youll find benchwarmers anywhere on this list, every item in this category is truly an MVP. Highlights include candles that were positive will become staples in their scent rotation, a beautiful vase (that you should definitely pair with a bouquet of fresh flowers) and the hand-soap-moisturizer duo thats in the bathroom of their favorite restaurant.Aesop Resurrection DuetDiptyque Feu de Bois (Fire Wood) Scented CandleMade In Red & White Wine Glassware (Set of 8)Fazeek Balance VaseBrightland The Duo Extra Virgin Olive OilsApotheke Sea Salt Grapefruit CandleGreen Thumb-ApprovedThese hostess gifts will surely thrill any friend whos been tapping into botany or can be found at the community garden come spring and summer. In that case, its more than likely your hosts dinner menu is sprinkled with fresh produce and herbs they grew themselves, so theyll really appreciate you taking the time to notice theyve been in need of a new gardening tote bag or brought the upscale fertilizer theyve been wanting to try.Niwaki Hori Hori and HolsterStrata Plant Vessel by Simone BrewsterWilliams Sonoma Thea Garden Tool BagBarebones Living Classic Leather Work GlovesSorry, Well Be At Our Cabin UpstateIf you secured an invite to their upstate hideaway, heres exactly what to bring. Theyll likely have no shortage of cozy sweaters, and the maple syrup from the local farmers market is probably far superior to anything youll get from Whole Foods. But a personalized log carrier (with monogram!) or a video-enabled birdhouse? Theres your ticket to a standing invite. And if they dont have the upstate cabin theyve been dreaming of just yet, we also included a splurgy Postcard Cabins gift card thatll help them live out their fantasy right now.Mark & Graham x Steele Waxed Canvas Log CarrierCozy Earth Boucle Throw BlanketTT Nature Bird Feeder with CameraPostcard Cabins Gift CardIf They Summer in the HamptonsFor every upstate cabin couple, theres also a Hamptons-summer-house coupleits just the rules of nature! And while the two personalities arent mutually exclusive, theres something about the salty summer air and the $100 Lobster Cobb from Duryeas that really makes these hosts come alive. Surround them with a bit of cross-stitch and a hint of rattan to make them really swoon.Crate & Barrel Scallop Woven TraySerena & Lily Cayman Seagrass-Wrapped PitcherRecess Brooklyn Pickleball PaddleGiannini Firenze Hand-Marbled Guest BookVisiting Your Jet-Setting BestieStudying abroad in London during college was life changing for them (guilty). When visiting a friend who moved to [insert European city name here] postgrad, why not bring them a slice of home in the form of their favorite bed linens or a new backpack they can use on their impulsive weekend trips to Santorini?Buffy Breeze Sheet SetDagne Dover Nova Sling BagThe Milk Bar SamplerRuss and Daughters Caviar Lover's Black & WhiteFor The Couple Who Cosplays ParisianOui, oui! Maybe your hosts tried their hardest to find a Paris-style apartment in New York City (only to discover the truly authentic ones lacked an AC unit). And while they cant wander around Le Marais on the daily, some high quality French butter and an upgraded knife set on their cheese board might help scratch the itch.Maison Pichon Uzs Louis XVI Ceramic Salad BowlCasafina Oak Baguette Board & Bread KnifeLaguiole Rainbow Mini Cheese Spreaders (Set of 6)Trudon Josphine Floral Garden CandleHave you seen this season of The Bear yet?Did they immediately buy the NN07 jacket or the Japanese T-shirt Carmy wore in season one? Gift ideas for these world-class food lovers include something special from Noma, the actual knives and bowls featured on the show, and some best-selling salt that will make any dishfrom Italian beef sandwiches to Michelin-starred mealstaste especially upscale.The Autumn Bundle by NomaMaldon Sea Salt FlakesSeisuke Sakai Kikumori Blue Steel No.1 Santoku KnifeJono Pandolfi Coupe Pasta Bowl
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    Heidi Klums Houses: Where Does the Supermodel Live?
    Her keen eye for fashion and love for Halloween are notorious. Whats perhaps less well-known is that Heidi Klums houses also provide a creative outlet for her. The supermodel really loves renovating and decorating her homesswitching things up as they suit her familys changing needs. Im not someone who is like, Okay, this is a museum and you cant sit here and you cant touch this and everything has to be put in its place, Klum told People in 2009. At the time, she and then husband Seal shared three young children, with a fourth on the way. You come into our house and there is a giant elephant and lion to welcome you. We have those big stuffed animals and we have toys and things everywhere. These days, her kids are oldershe and eldest daughter, Leni, 20, just starred in a lingerie ad togetherand the toys that litter her home are different, though no less meaningful. Her current husband, guitarist Tom Kaulitz, for instance, gifted the German-born model with an artwork-covered piece of the Berlin Wall in 2019 a few months after they got married; a few years before that, a previous paramour bought her a giant blue plastic snail at an AIDS charity event in Italy. It now sits in the backyard of her Bel Air mansion. Below, were sharing a peek inside each of Klums properties over the years.New York City apartmentsWhen Klum arrived in the States to try her hand at modeling, she found herself first in Miami and then in New York City. There, she lived in a rundown Lower East Side apartment with a few other models before moving at some point to Murray Hill with her first husband, Ric Pipino, in the late 90s. (According to the Murray Hill Neighborhood Association, Pipino owned the hair salon downstairs.) A Facebook post from 2021, made by an outgoing administrator of the group, shared that the place is not and was not a nice apartment and hasnt been renovated since 1974 when my landlords father bought it. Heidi gave the wood trim a shabby chic sanding job, which survives to this day. I kind of hate it. Klums star really began to take off in the next few years, with her stint on the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue in 1998, her first strut down the runway as a Victorias Secret Angel in 1999, and her hosting gig for Project Runway starting in 2004.Tuscany-style Brentwood villaKlum met her second husband, R&B crooner Seal, in 2004. The pair got married the following spring on a beach in Mexico. By 2010, they shared four childrenLeni, Henry, Johan, and Louand needed a larger spot for their growing brood. The couple paid $14.2 million for a Tuscan-style villa in Brentwood, a massive 8.4-acre property with a 12,300-square-foot main house. The 8-bedroom, 10-bathroom villa had reportedly sat empty for two years before their purchase, so the couple had their hands full restoring the residence before they could even move in. Klum said in a statement at the time, I honestly felt that I was no longer in Los Angeles and instead was strolling the gardens of a home in the South of France. Klum also reportedly designed her dream closets and added a primary bathroom facing the Pacific. The home included an eat-in chefs kitchen, a media room, a yoga room, and a temperature-controlled wine cellar with its own tasting room. The grounds included rose gardens, hiking trails, a koi pond, and an infinity-edge pool. The family lived there for several years before Klum and Seal called it quits on their marriage in 2012; they sold the palatial residence for $24 million in 2014 after their divorce was finalized.Bel Air mansionIn 2013, one year after Klum and Seal publicly announced their split, the supermodel shelled out $9.875 million for a new home base in the exclusive Stone Ridge section of Bel Air. The Georgian-style mansion measures 11,000 square feet and includes six bedrooms and nine bathrooms, plenty of room for the Americas Got Talent judges whole brood to roam. The exterior of the property is grandiose, with white columns accentuating a stately brick faade and a circular driveway greeting guests. There is also an in-ground pool, a trampoline, a pizza oven, and a playground out back. Klums aforementioned piece of the Berlin Wall and the giant blue plastic snail also take up residence at the property. Klum, who studied oil painting when she first moved to New York, has a studio at the house, where she spent a lot of time during the pandemic. Klum still owns this property, and she and her now husband Kaulitz still live there as their primary residence.SoHo penthouseHeidi Klum and Tom Kaulitz walking in SoHo in 2022.Photo: MEGA/GC Images/Getty Images
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