The gut renovation of photographer Donna Dotan's home in Montclair, New Jersey was well underway when Dotan and her husband discovered five layers of old flooring in the Dutch Colonials kitchen. They knew exactly what to do with that sudden trove of space underneath the room in their house that they planned to use the most.They removed all five layers to make way for a fresh, durable option and took the opportunity to banish cold feet for good. At that point, we decided to add heated flooring since we were going with tile, says Dotan, who specializes in interiors and architecture photography, of the luxurious feature more commonly used in bathrooms. The demolition took a lot longer than expected, but it was worth the wait!Built in 1901, the homes kitchen was outdated and mismatched. Working with interior designer Rob Stuart, they set out to make functional updates and create a cohesive lookall while maintaining the historic feel of the six-bedroom, five-and-a-half-bathroom property. A standout improvement is the two-tone, shaker-style cabinetry. The cabinet colors (warm wood and October Mist by Benjamin Moore) complement the homes natural surroundings, which are framed by wide windows.Donna DotanLight fixture: Visual Comfort. Stools: Serena & Lily. Counters: Rockaway Marble & Granite Inc. Art: Hannah Moon. Glass candle holders: Anthropologie.Meaningful moments are found in the details. Most nights, Dotans family enjoys tea following dinner. That teapot [on the island] was passed down from my Moroccan grandmother, who had a whole collection of them, she says, adding she keeps a few of them together with Moroccan glassware on display on the open shelving. We keep a garden of mint right outside the kitchen and will usually have hot water with mint leaves or add the leaves to our tea.The art on the walls is a commission by their good friend Hannah Moon. Rob found that incredible vintage frame on the streets of New York with a sign on it that said Take me! Dotan explains. Hannah created something that she felt would look perfect in that frame, and she was right.Donna DotanDonna DotanOther upgrades include a farm sink, which doubles as a bath for washing Dotans mini golden doodle, Remy, when he gets muddy from playing outside. Under the open shelving, the bread box was painted sage green to match the cabinets. The vintage-style range from Ilve adds to the room's overall charm. "We purchased an extra brass bar from Ilve to add to the Hoodsly hood above in order to tie it all together," Dotan says.Donna DotanWallpaper: Thibaut. Pendant, sconce, chairs, and throw pillows (square): Serena & Lily. Throw pillow (circle): HomeGoods. Mirror: Pottery Barn. Banquette fabrics: Kravet, upholstered by Oscar Fay & Son Upholstery.On the opposite end of the kitchen, a custom banquette area was built under a window that fills the room with natural light, a bright, cozy spot for breakfast. Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Entering a new year is all about looking forward to what's coming next and reflecting back on what has already occurred. In the interior design world, that translates to predicting upcoming home trends and looking back on the projects that were completed this past year. And while it's never easy to pick a favorite, we asked a group of top interior designers to do the impossible and share with us their top residential projects of 2024. From custom new builds to full gut renovations, 12 top designers spill all the details on why the projects they shared will stick with them for the rest of their careers and what challenges they overcame to create such charming spaces. You'll find some recurring themes in the homes that display what styles homeowners were really loving this past year, such as bold colors, layered patterns, and timeless designs that'll age beautifully. Looking ahead, we can only imagine what these talented designers are going to create in 2025. But for now, this is 12 top interior designers' 2024 wrapped.For more interior inspiration: 1Amy Peltier's California Country EstatePeter Christiansen ValliMy favorite project that we completed this year was this master bedroom transformation in a historical Tudor home. We designed this 'California Country Estate' to be a space where timeless English tradition meets the serene sophistication of California living. We drew inspiration from the grand estates of the English countryside, while integrating elements with a relaxed, West Coast vibe, creating a space that is both refined and inviting.One distinctive feature about this bedroom was the square footage. The space was so large in fact it ran the entire width of the house including having a fireplace and a sitting room. In addition to the bedroom, there is a balcony and windows on three sides of the room allowing for a breathtaking view of the northwest mountain. We got to truly express ourselves creatively in every nook and corner adding small touches and details that elevated the space.Amy Peltier of Peltier Interiors2Breegan Jane's HGTV Dream HomeJoseph Bradshaw"Ive enjoyed working on the HGTV Dream Home for the past four years, but this years Dream Home was uniquely special for me because it offered a new perspective on purchasing long-term real estate investments with the idea that it can transform your life by supporting your lifestyle.This property backs up to a golf course, and its one of the first Ive worked on that had the ability to bring in nature in a visual way without the requirement of maintaining the greenery. It was the perfect illustration of how our homes can go beyond the physical walls and extend into the neighborhoods themselves.Additionally, with designer Brian Patrick Flynn, we ensured the home used a lot of color-drenching. This styling allowed for a bold personality in each room, and it expanded my ideas of color theory inside bedrooms. The headboards, baseboards, ceilings, and walls in two of the bedrooms were all done monochromaticallyeach in a different color and tone, and the interiors of the rooms also played off those shades. Its always interesting at this point in my career to continue to challenge myself and consider ideas outside of the box."Breegan JaneAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below3Redd Kaihoi's Artist's LairCourtesy of Redd Kaihoi"Picking a favorite is kind of like Sophies choice or asking who is your favorite child. They are all our favorites because each one teaches us something new and opens us to new experiences, but this one did linger, for the artistic creativity it allowed and the scale of the rooms.The client is an artist and has an artists eye. She has a large family and wanted a very comfortable lair to enjoy her many collections, but also a place where family and friends could easily come and relax surrounded by beauty. The living spaces have an almost Peggy Guggenheim studio quality, but a tad less bohemian, as if Geoffrey Bennison might have come along to do a refresh. The bedrooms are meant to be classic Colefax comfort. Clean and edited, yet sumptuous and practical. Stay in bed drinking lapsang and reading the morning away."Miles Redd of Redd Kaihoi4Jeff Andrews's Manhattan Beach Gut RenovationSam Frost

As part of a larger, multiyear project on this Manhattan Beach family home, we completely gutted and expanded the kitchen. The homeowners love to cook and entertain at home, so we outfitted this custom space with a full suite of integrated Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove appliances and double islands. This kitchen is really a study in contrast through both color and texture. The bleached oak of the cabinetry alongside the dark metallic finishes, and the combination of smooth stone countertops with highly textured fabric and backsplash creates a sense of juxtaposition and visual interest throughout the space.Jeff Andrews of Jeff Andrews DesignAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below5Allison Lind's Personal ProjectKara Mercer"My favorite project from 2024 was the gut renovation of my own home. The home was a neglected 1905 craftsman in a highly sought-after neighborhood (in Tacoma, WA). Every inch of the homes interior needed work. So not only did I get to come in and find creative ways to modernize while resuscitating some 1900s charm, but I also got to think through how this home would serve my family as our children (ages four and six) grow. The biggest struggle? Being designer and client. For my clients, I am decisive and can clearly see the vision. For myself, I was constantly running into decision paralysis. But now that its done, I am so thrilled with the resultsand, bonus, I have a lot more empathy for what my clients go through!"Allison Lind of Allison Lind Interiors6Jessica Helgerson's Central Park West ApartmentAaron Leitz"Im not sure I can ever say a project is my favorite because my favorite is always what Im working on at the moment. Its the design work thats the fun part. But I loved our Central Park West project so very much. The thing I loved about this one was how fully we were able to embrace our Korean clients cultural heritage with our design choices: Pojagi curtains, the work of Korean artists, inclusion of Korean antiques, the recurring chrysanthemum motif.At the same time, we modernized the dated apartment, bringing the kitchen out from the back of the house, and simultaneously created a warm, livable, approachable space that feels like a soft, warm hug and is a calming haven for our clients to escape from their busy city lives."Jessica Helgerson of Jessica Helgerson Interior DesignAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below7Cece Bowman's Colorful New BuildCarmel Brantley"This project was my favorite from 2024 because it was built from the ground up, meaning we were able to incorporate many architectural details to make the house special. In addition, the client pushed us to be creative with color, new ideas, and to be bold. The outcome was an incredibly detailed and beautiful design within a practical family home setting."Cece Bowman of Cece Bowman Interiors8Anne McDonald's Jewel-Tone RefreshTaylor Hall O'Brien"This project was a favorite last year because it goes to show the power of a jewel-toned palette. The home had been white-washed previously and painting the trim a deep teal in the living room, and the oxblood tone in the dining room just helped draw out the classic colonial architecture in a way that feels fresh, but not trendy. The plums, emeralds, and light blues that we used for the art and furniture perfectly balance the deeper paint colors, so nothing takes itself too seriously."Anne McDonald of Anne McDonald DesignAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below9Lucy O'Brien's Historic Shore HouseLaurey Glenn"I have to say one of my favorite projects we finished up was our historic shore house, styled by Stephanie Potts. The transformation was so shocking and the reinvention of dead spaces into a much better footprint for modern living was a feat of design and project management. We also had many bumps along the way that we had to critically think through to get the desired result."Lucy O'Brien of Tartan & Toile 10Kevin Sawyers's Years-Long Obstacle CourseMichele Lee Willson"My project in the resort town of Guerneville, CA, was my favorite that wrapped up this year. I love a challenge and this one was for the record books. Going in, I knew there would be no limitations on color, pattern mixing, or expressing the clients bold personality in the interiors as this was a repeat client.The things that got in the way were fires, floods, FEMA, and a pandemic. With all of those obstacles, the ground-up build took seven years. The entire team persevered to create a dynamic, and inviting home for the client, their friends, and family to enjoy for many years to come."Kevin Sawyers of Sawyers DesignAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below11Ariel Okin's Prep-Meets-Bohemian ColonialDonna Dotan"This project was such a joy to work on, for a young family looking to put down roots in a new town (they had just moved from Montana.) It was fun and colorful and layered and textured and it was just happy from concept to install!"Ariel Okin of Ariel Okin InteriorsTOUR THE ENTIRE HOME12Jon de la Cruz's Penthouse Game RoomJohn Merkl Photography"This penthouse game room was my favorite in 2024 because we really were able to be extra playful with color. Having a panoramic window on the top floor of the five-story house with breathtaking views of the adjacent marina and bay, we went with the bold sky blue and verdant green palette. Rubelli's Monet jacquard is an absolute favorite, so upholstered a custom-designed, 12-foot banquette and a back-to-back sofa to anchor the room. We worked with Mark Nelson to create the custom 'front lawn' inspired hand tufted wool carpet, and color blocked Sandra Jordan's Prima Alpaca flannel into drapery panels."Jon de la Cruz of DLC-ID

Print-on-demand wallpaper and fabric company Spoonflower has a reputation for eye-catching, colorful, sometimes even kitschy patterns. This is a brand whose "About" page says, "It all began with oversized yellow polka-dot curtains."The company revolutionized the home-decor textile space by providing an online platform where independent artists and creators could sell their custom designs, and homeowners, renovators, and DIYers would be sure to find, among the site's more than a million offerings, a print for any project they could dream up. Especially if they had their heart set on something bold, bright, and funky. But unique design resources don't stay under the radar for long. Professional designers are avid fans of Spoonflower as well, and the poppy prints have been joined by more subtle patterns and sophisticated neutral colors, as well as metallic options, that suit a full array of decor styles. Recently, the brand partnered with House Beautiful in the 2024 Whole Home project in Asheville, North Carolina, inviting designers to bring their creativity to bear using Spoonflower designs. Take a look.Brie WilliamsThe house, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, has a modern-rustic vibe, which Oklahoma City-based designer Kelsey Leigh amplified with unexpected masculine touches in the kitchen. She installed cabinetry painted a deep navy and covered a window wall offering a sweeping view in a Spoonflower plaid wallpaper in browns and tans. The colors may be subdued, but the effect is dramatic. Since turnaround time can be tight on a showcase project like this, Leigh opted for pre-pasted wallpaper, which comes with adhesive already on the back. The paste is activated by water, allowing you to apply the paper directly to the prepared wall. It also comes off easilyjust grab a corner and peel to remove. (Spoonflower can print almost any pattern on traditional non-pasted paper, grasscloth, peel-and-stick, and vinyl as well.)Brie WilliamsIn the house's media room, California designer Anita Yokota, author of Home Therapy, kept things tranquil with gently undulating Watercolor Stripes in Waves wallpaper in Blue. (The hand-painted pattern also comes in six other pastel-leaning colorways.) Spoonflower has embraced professionals like Yokota with its Trade Program, which lets designers leverage the company's vast library on behalf of clients. It offers professionals exclusive trade discounts and curation services, along with customer-pleasing unlimited swatches and quick lead times.Brie WilliamsThe home's recurring palette of brown and navy inspired Heidi Woodman, a designer from Indianapolis who took on the primary bedroom, to choose a burlap-patterned wallpaper (also seen in the image at top) in a warm neutral called Biscuit. Woodman had it printed on grasscloth; the subtle texture integrates nicely with the abundant natural-wood floors and furniture.Brie WilliamsMost of Spoonflower's designs can be digitally printed on fabric as well as wallpaperyou can even have them rendered on cocktail napkins, throw pillows, duvet covers, you name it. Byron Risdon, owner of an interior-design firm in Washington, D.C., outfitted a guest bedroom with a coverlet in solid dark teal to play against boldly floral draperies. Touches of white, as in the black-and-white windowpane bedding, act as brief visual breaks amid the room's saturated color scheme. Risdon chose performance linena synthetic fabric with the organic, woven look of linento keep the bedding high-style but low-maintenance. Spoonflower also offers velvet, chiffon, jersey, denim, sateenin fact, there are some 30 fabric types to choose from, so the pattern you love can be made to suit whatever room and use you intend it for. Because that's Spoonflower's superpower: providing a single destination where you can execute every facet of your design vision.

Like any expression of style or aesthetic sensibility, interior design trends come and go. Right now we're in the grips of Gen Z's obsession with putting bows on everything; next year it will be something else. The trouble is that some of these trends don't go as fast as they came.We all have some skeletons in our wardrobe that remind us of the clothing fads we never should have indulged inand if you are an interior design professional, and you've been at it long enough, some of those skeletons are bound to show up in your living room too. So we asked six brave designers to tell us the design trends they look back on with regret. They stepped up and revealed what makes them cringealong with the styles and pieces that are so timeless, they never go out of style. Related StoriesFurniture Trends Designer Regret Taking Part InHead to Toe Midcentury Modernonurdongel//Getty Images Before you get miffed that midcentury modern furniture is on this list of regrets, just know that the two designers who said this both recognize that the MCM aesthetic has its placeas long as there are other elements mixed in. "About a decade ago, the resurgence of MCM design was everywhere, and for our generation, it felt somewhat nostalgic as we grew up with our grandparents' homes being MCM time capsules," Mark Schubert of Phillip Harrison Interiors says. However, the design market was oversaturated by the look. Vintage pieces were everywhere and then the aesthetic turned up in new collections by high-end and fast-furniture companies alike.Designer Allison Handler agrees. "As my style and aesthetic has evolved, I really cringe at going all in on this style/trend a few years back." However, she says that she'd still include midcentury modern pieces as long as she was able to mix in other design styles and transitional pieces, like warmer fabrics and textures, to soften the lines. Related StoryChevron-Patterned UpholsteryDaniel Cortez//Getty ImagesAnyone alive and coherent in the 2000s likely had a very close relationship with the chevron trend. Designer Amy Elbaum of AE Design sure remembers it. "Looking back on the trend, I completely regret the style because chevron is such a bold pattern and usually includes high-contrast colors that make this type of fabric tire very quickly over time due to its intensity," she explains. She also points out that chevron fabric doesn't easily transition into other design styles because it's such a modern and dominant pattern. Ikat FabricDaniel Cortez//Getty ImagesMikel Welch says that a trend he "dove into with full enthusiasm was Ikat fabric." No vintage piece he found was safe from reupholstery in this bold, intricate fabric. "Today, I cant help but cringe when I see photos of that phasethose loud, busy designs dont resonate with me anymore," he adds. With his more minimalist approach today, the Ikat material simply feels too chaotic and less sophisticated than his preferred aesthetic now. Buddha-inspired FurnitureCavan Images//Getty ImagesWelch adds that another trend he got swept up in early in his design career was Buddha-inspired furniture, including a red Buddha chair he used in a model home project. "Back then, I thought it was a cool, artistic statement, but I didnt fully understand the cultural weight behind it," he explains. "Reflecting on it now, I realize how shallow that choice was, and I cant help but laugh at how misguided it was." Welch parting ways with that project, which he recognizes was probably for the best. "It was a design choice that lacked depth and respect, and Ive learned so much from that experience." Cheap Chrome PiecesKwanchai_Khammuean//Getty ImagesDesigner Ali Budd looks back with regret on the phase in which she used low-quality chrome pieces in clients' homes. Rather than the general price of the items though, what bothers her the most now is the fact that they were typically knock-off versions of iconic furniture. "Its not about trendsits about integrity," she says. Over-the-Top Glam FurnitureVostok//Getty ImagesExcessively glam furniture pieces have fallen out of favor with designer Kristy Turner of Melanie Turner Interiors. "It used to be the go-to for adding instant luxury, but now it feels a bit dated and heavy-handed," she says. The over-the-top shine and ornamentation isn't in style anymorepeople are generally turning to more understated elegance instead, with sleek lines, natural materials, and a timeless vibe. Jewel-Toned Velvet SofasDaniel Cortez//Getty ImagesIt may be a bit controversial, but designer Alicia Held-Morris of Morris Lare Interior Design says that these once-beloved couches have not stood the test of time. "We love a good jewel-tone moment in the right interior, but not all velvets are created equal," she explains. "Some velvets, particularly cotton, crush easily, show wear rapidly, and dont hide any stains." Those issues combined with a rich tone shows every little bit of wear and tear. Button-Tufted Chesterfield SeatsBulgac//Getty ImagesWhile Held-Morris agrees that the Chesterfield sofa is beautiful and classic, the button-tufted versions are frankly a mess. "The button areas can get snagged easily, catch every little bit of dirt and dust, and arent that comfortable to sit on," she says. Rather than the button-tufted backs, she suggests a cushion instead, or putting a button-tufted version in a place that doesn't get a lot of traffic, like an entry hall or at the foot of a bed. And now for the pieces that will never go out of style:Natural MaterialsPatrick BillerBy Allison Willson.Mikel Welch calls out slipcovered sofas in natural fabrics, like linen, for their timelessness. "These pieces not only age well, but also add a sense of comfort and effortless elegance to any room," he says. Weathered WoodJulie SoeferBy Marie Flanigan.Wooden furniture with a natural patina are also on Welch's list of pieces that'll always be in style. As the wood ages, the furniture gains more character and charm, "making them just as relevant today as they were years ago," he adds. Neutral HuesAime MazzengaBy Wendy Labrum.Looking at the color wheel, Amy Elbaum explains that neutral tones and fabrics remain in style more consistently than other more saturated hues. "Having these kinds of pieces means you can evolve your aesthetic over time by changing out accessories, rugs, pillows, and art," she says. Neutral fabrics and color schemes can stand the tests of time better than brighter pieces. Quality antiquesMali Azima"There's something timeless about the craftsmanship and character they bring to a space," says Kristy Turner. From weathered wood to an authentic design, the history and charm of a vintage piece blend effortlessly with many types of contemporary decor. Related StoryHans Wegner Dining ChairsDesign Within Reach"These midcentury chairs are timeless not only for their beauty, but for their comfort," says Alicia Held-Morris. Hans Wegner's designs are simple yet sculptural wooden forms that are "engineering marvels," she says. They're practical, stylish, and comfortableis there anything more timeless than that? Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Every item on this page was hand-picked by a House Beautiful editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.Yellowstone is coming to an end after five seasons, but make no mistake: The shows impact, particularly on interior design, has staying power. Over the years, weve seen a surge in ranch-inspired productsfrom fabrics to furnishingsthat nod to luxe life on the range. And weve lusted over sprawling yet cozy ranches, rustic retreats, and even party barns. Its become abundantly clear that Old-West style is no longer reserved for cowboys; Weve dubbed the style Rich Ranch, and its not going anywhere anytime soon. Related StoriesThe look is less Howdy, Pardner, and more, Howdy, (Top Law Firm) Partner. Designer Kylee Shintaffer, who executes the Rich Ranch aesthetic well, explains: lt's luxe, rustic materials used in a sparing way, paired with furnishings that are a blend of old and new. Its a delicate balance of mixing the rustic with the refined. Effectively finding the right blend requires taking cues from the architecture [to] help inform those decisions and how far you push the mix.While Yellowstone is a longtime propeller of this trend, its not the only reason homeowners are embracing it. I think there are more clients looking to find places to escape to and connect with nature while also having an elevated sense of comfort to retreat to at the end of the day, says Shintaffer.So if youre ready to immerse yourself in Rich Ranch style, whether to fill the Yellowstone void or take advantage of natural surroundings, here are four elements you can incorporate into your home.Additional copy by Kelly Allen.Reclaimed Wood and Timeworn Stone With Modern AccentsEric PiaseckiA kitchen designed by Kylee ShintafferOut West, natural materials like wood and stone reign supreme. But for the Rich Ranch look, you'll want to make sure those materials are mixed with contemporary ones. Often, we use a blend of authentically rustic materials such as reclaimed wood and antique stone paired with more contemporary elements of steel and glass, says Shintaffer. It's a beautiful way to modernize a rustic aesthetic. One thing to keep in mind: if you'd like to keep your metal looking modern, make sure it's smooth, not hammered!Luxe, Natural FabricsEric PiaseckiAn office designed by Kylee ShintafferAs for textiles, you'll want a combo here, too. Shintaffer gravitates toward natural fabrics of wool, cashmere, and linen, which can be selected in neutral shades for a more modern look. Pair those with other luxe fabricsfaux furs and jewel-tone velvet, for instanceto infuse a cozy sumptuousness into a room.Old-School Wall FinishesTria GiovanA living room designed by Suzanne KaslerNod to ye olde days with classic wall finishes like plaster and lime paint, two of Shintaffer's picks, which can add subtle texture to a space. The handmade quality is something you'd find on a traditional ranch, but when it's paired with more modern furniture and decor, you're entering Rich Ranch territory.Vintage and Contemporary Furnishings Vintage pieces always add character to a space, but Shintaffer suggests incorporating clean-lined contemporary pieces to find that perfect balance of old and new. That way, you can ride off into the sunset knowing your home will feel timeless rather than dated.Shop the Rich Ranch TrendCastlery Abel Leather Counter Stool$458 at castlery.comVFAUOSIT Kitchen Sink FaucetNow 21% Off$45 $36 at AmazonCrate & Barrel Wythe 92" Leather Sofa$4,199 at Crate & BarrelEastern Accents Wiley Pillow Cover & Insert$203 at Wayfair$295 at Neiman MarcusWest Elm Faux Fur ThrowNow 50% Off$109 $54 at West ElmRobert Abbey Bling Large ChandelierNow 20% Off$3,631 $2,905 at LumensSquare Travertine Side Table$3,818,383 at West ElmSerena & Lily Lake House Expandable Dining TableNow 35% Off$5,498 $3,598 at Serena and LilyRejuvenation High Back Dining Arm Chair$619 at RejuvenationFollowHouse Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

According to the National Association of Realtors, in 2023 there were 4,090,000 million homes sold. And real estate agents are a key part of those transactions. "The home buying process is a partnership between buyer and agent," says Lauren Cangiano, Real Estate Agent at Brown Harris Stevens. "When you are completely aligned with your agent, you can be assured success without misunderstandings and potential missed opportunities."And, as with choosing a life partner, choosing the right real estate agent makes everything that comes after either easier or harder. Especially because purchasing a home is an overwhelming process that requires knowledge most buyers dont havebut real estate agents should."Between interest rates, national practice changes with regards to how buyers are required to work with a real agent to represent them, interpreting market data and understanding the complexities in the market, it is important to have a trusted confidant by your side," says Cara Ameer, Real Estate Broker/Salesperson at Coldwell Banker Realty Vanguard.But how do you find the right personand make sure they're giving you the best advice for house-hunting and buying? By asking the right questions. We interviewed experts to come up with a cheat sheet of what you need to be asking your potential real estate agent at each step in your home-buying process. Read on for the info, and then all you have to do is find potential agents and pop the right questions. Related StoriesQuestions to Ask When Hiring a Real Estate AgentBefore you commit, get to know your prospective agent and make sure they're the real deal. And don't forget to ask for client testimonials and references, and check up on those, too! "When a home buyer is shopping for an agent, the best place to garner information is from their past clients," says Jo Ann Bauer, Associate Broker / Realtor at Coldwell Banker. "Ask the agent if you can call some of their past clients." And, while you're at it, ask them the following queries, too:What is your level of experience in the industry and this particular area?You know what you're looking for: A single-family home in a good school district? A luxury apartment with concierge services? A cottage on a golf course? Whatever it is, your agent should be an expert in that arena. "It is important that the agent has a deep understanding of the product itself and the sales data for the area," says Cangiano. "As agents, we have access to data that the buyer does not have. We must be able to show the value that the consumer is getting whether it is in the price or the quality and finishes of the home."Choosing a real estate agent who is highly knowledgeable about the type of property you are looking to buy is a major benefit that can offer unique insights into the buying process, potential challenges, and market nuances. "For example, purchasing a waterfront home may involve understanding flood zones, while a luxury condo may have specific HOA requirements or amenities that an experienced agent can guide you through," says Donna J. Soda, Real Estate Agent at Schemmel Soda Group. The agent doesn't just need to be good at gathering intel; they need to be able to use that info to negotiate on your behalf. To that end, she adds, it's also important to ask: What is your listing price discount obtained for buyers? This will show their negotiation experience, Cangiano says.Can you walk me through your standard buyer representation agreement?Ameer suggests that you ask the agents you are talking to about buyer representation agreements in the market where you are located, and what options are available for buyer representation."Because of practice changes that went into effect August 17th, 2024, buyers are now required to sign a buyer representation agreement with their agent before they can start working together to see properties," she explains. You'll want to know what yours stipulates. It's an important piece of the conversation between an agent and a prospective buyer because such an agreement outlines both your and the agent's responsibilities and sets forth the buyer's agent's compensation for their services provided.Why should I hire you?As a buyer, you should consider communicating with a potential realtor like a job interview process. This question is direct and can offer you insight into their confidence. "The agent is basically applying for the job of being their real estate agent and should be able to clearly and concisely outline to the buyer what skill sets or areas of expertise they are bringing to the table and how and why they are the best candidate for the job," says Bauer. How many buyers/sellers are you working with at the moment?You should be a priority to your real estate agent in your search, which is why you should check in about their current client load. "It is important to understand how much time your agent is prepared to dedicate to your home buying journey," says Cangiano. "If your agent has a full line up of both buyers and sellers, can they give you the time and energy that you need?" According to the National Association of Realtors, real estate agents complete an average of 12 transactions a yearconsidered the ideal benchmark for realtors, and a good number to keep in mind when choosing your realtor.Who are you representing in this transaction?This question is important to protect your interests if your real estate agent is associated with the seller. When an agent represents both the buyer and seller, this is called dual agency, and it can result in the agent being pulled into directions, wanting to get the best price for the seller and the best deal for the buyer, which can often be counterproductive, if not impossible. If it turns out the agent you found the house with is also representing the seller, "you may want to consider hiring a different agent to represent your interest and negotiate on your behalf," says Cangiano. What's your availability for showings, and how quickly can you schedule them?Prompt showings are crucial in competitive markets where homes can go under contract quickly. "Knowing your agents availability helps you coordinate viewings efficiently and ensures they're responsive enough to secure opportunities for you," says Soda.Whats your preferred method of communicationphone, email, or text?Clear communication is the foundation of a successful agent-client relationship. "By understanding the agent's preferred method, you can ensure timely and effective exchanges, whether it's to discuss new listings, schedule showings, or address any concerns," says Soda.Arguably, though, the more important issue is will they communicate in your preferred method? "Some people are all about text messages, others only want to talk on the phone or in person. Some may hardly ever check their email," she says. "It's important that the buyer and agent are on the same page when it comes to communication whether that be the method; text, call, email or the frequency."You should also discuss how much communication you want."If a buyer expects to hear from their agent daily and the agent only communicates if there is an immediate issue, then the relationship is not going to work," says Bauer.Questions to Ask Once Youve Hired an Agent and Are Ready to House HuntThis is the fun partbut it also takes preparation, and you want your agent on board to help. Here's what you need to ask to ensure that happens. What do I need to prepare in advance of my home search?Buyers must have their financials in place before the home search beginsand you should utilize your real estate agent to help you. "Your agent will prepare you to seek out the assistance of a mortgage lender to understand what you can afford, how much down payment you need, what are the estimated closing costs to expect," says Cangiano. "They can also help with preparing your current home for sale, if needed."What is key information about the current state of your real estate market, and your perspective on navigating it?A good real estate agent will excel at setting and managing proper expectations with you as a buyer and be honest and straightforward about what will be required to buy a home in the market you are looking at within your desired price range. "It is important to remain flexible and adaptable, as a real estate transaction is a fluid and dynamic process," says Ameer. "Things will change and change often, and priorities may need to adjust according to the market of the moment."Questions to Ask When You're Eyeing a HomeYou've got a home in your sights. Now's the time to get specific insights and details from your real estate agent. What is included in the purchase of the home?Checking in with your real estate agent about what will come with the home (and what wont) is a must. "It is important to know what is included in order to make an informed decision on what to offer for the home," says Cangiano. "Furniture? Lighting? Appliances? Are all fixtures and appliances in working order?" If not, you'll need to plan to set aside funds to upgrade appliances yourself, for example.What are the pros and cons of living in this neighborhood or specific street? Your real estate agent should be familiar with the area you are considering buying in and know extra details about it. Cangiano suggests asking specific things such as: "Is it a walkable area with stores and schools nearby? Pet friendly? Is there a hospital nearby? Is there planned construction coming? Will I lose my view or sunlight? Are there parks nearby? Is it noisy?"Can you provide insights into the neighborhood's future development plans?"This question uncovers information about upcoming infrastructure projects, zoning changes, or community initiatives," says Tim Choate, real estate investor, property manager and CEO of Red Awning. Understanding future developments can influence your property's value and your quality of life. For instance, knowing that a new park or school is planned nearby could enhance your property's appeal.How much are monthly costs?"It's easy to focus on the list price, but there's a lot more to consider, like property taxes, insurance, and potential HOA fees," says Bubba Peek, real estate investor and owner of Bubba Land Company. "A good agent will break down these additional expenses so you can make a realistic budget and avoid surprises later." Find out what the monthly costs will be early, so there aren't any nasty surprises down the road.Can you connect me with experts in your network?Utilizing your real estate agent's contacts can bring major benefits. "Don't hesitate to ask your agent about their network of professionalssuch as inspectors, contractors, and lendersas this can streamline the buying process and provide you with trusted resources," says Choate.Questions to Ask When Youre Ready to Make an OfferNow's the time for you and your agent to talk costs and strategies. Here's how to start the discussion. What have you seen while inspecting the condition of the home?Ameer points out that while you will have an official inspection, your real estate agent should give the home their own inspection and let you know their thoughts. And on your final walk-through of the property, both you and your agent should keep a sharp eye outit is important to closely look for signs of wear and tear, and deferred maintenance. Consider things like how old are the systems such as the heating and air conditioning system, water heater, and roof, what is the condition of the fencing if applicable; and how does the exterior of the home look?Is this home priced correctly for the market?No one wants to pay the highest price for a home in any given area or buildingand your real estate agent should know if you're about to overpay. Buyers should understand and examine comparable home prices (both available and sold comps) in the area.Once you have that information, you can accurately assess the asking price. "If the price is higher than expected, perhaps the quality of finishes will explain this, Cangiano explains. "If the home is in a tall building, the view will have an impact on price."How long has this home been for sale?If the home you are interested in has been on the market for a long time, this will benefit you in the negotiation process. "A knowledgeable agent can provide key data on trends like inventory levels, days on market, and seasonal shifts, empowering you to make informed decisions," says Soda.What is the seller's timeline?Understanding the seller's timeline can help in the negotiating process, and help you know when you can actually move into the home. If they need to relocate by a certain date, the house may be priced to move, or open to negotiation. If they hope to linger, say through the end of the school year, and you can wait, that might give you an advantage over another buyer who needs to be in the house ASAP. "I recently helped clients win a competitive situation by understanding the seller's timing needs rather than just focusing on price," says Kenneth Yim, broker and Managing Partner at Owncondo.How do you handle multiple offers and bidding wars?In competitive markets, it's crucial that you and your real estate agent have a strategy for situations where multiple offers are on the table. "This question reveals the agent's negotiation skills and their approach to ensuring your offer stands out," says Choate. "It also prepares you for potential scenarios, reducing stress and surprises."Tell me about the contract; what should I expect when an offer is ready?Your real estate agent should be able to clearly explain every step of the offer process so you understand. "Every market is different and the definition of 'effective date' or 'AS IS,'" says Jeff Lichtenstein, broker and CEO of Echo Fine Properties. "Who pays for title insurance on each contract can be wildly different between state counties and the 50 states. You need to know what to expect so you are ready to pounce and get your house."What are the costs associated with the transaction for both you as the buyer and the seller? Closing costs can make or break a sale, and it's crucial to understand what you (the buyer) will be responsible for, and what the seller will be responsible for. While the buyer typically covers most closing costs, sellers often contribute. The average closing costs in the United States is $4,243, or about 1.87 percent of the purchase price."It is important to understand that a seller has closing costs associated with their side of the transaction, and asking a seller to pay for some or all of the concessions on the buyer side is that much less to the seller," says Ameer. She adds that in a higher interest rate market, asking the seller to pay points towards buying your interest rate down may be an effective strategy to discuss with your agent and a trusted lender. "You need to understand what is realistic to expect with respect to costs you can negotiate relative to the price range and availability of properties that you are looking at," she points out. Questions to Ask After Your Offer Is AcceptedYou did it! You found a home, and, with the help of your agent, purchased it! Now is the time to get their advice on how to turn the new house into a home. What's the best way to become connected and familiar with this community?A well-connected agent can offer advice on engaging with local organizations, events, or groups to help you feel at home faster. "They can also provide introductions to resources like contractors or service providers, helping you integrate seamlessly into the community," says Soda. Can I get a recommendation?Ask your realtor's advice on local contractors, landscapers, and anyone else whose services you might need in the future.

Wallpaper is the sweet spot between paint and art. The decorative wallcover makes a bolder impact than a coat of pain, and choose a bold one, and you might not need anything else to adorn that space. Wallpaper in 2025 will be less about blending in and more about making a statement, says designer Margarita Bravo. Next years trends offer a celebration of individuality, texture, and artistry, transforming walls into stories that define the space. There are also more wallpaper choices these days than there have been in a long time. Wallpaper is experiencing a resurgence, bringing fresh excitement to the design world, says designer Theresa Butler. In addition to the wide range of colors, textures, and patterns available, she notes that wallpaper is being used on ceilings as well as walls. There are also more and more low-stakes options. Peel-and-stick options make it easy to enjoy wallpaper without making a long-term commitment. (Hanging peel-and-stick wallpaper, on the other hand, isnt exactly a piece of cake. But it is worth the effort.)We as designed what they think will be the biggest wallpaper trends of 2025. Whether you like the idea of mixing and matching wallpapers or are looking for an excuse to try out a moody color palette in your home, at least one of these trends is sure to strike a chord with your style.Related Stories:

When a young couple decided on a gut renovation of their 1920s Mediterranean-style home in Los Angeles, they enlisted interior designer Mandy Cheng to give the property to bring everything up to date without sacrificing its original spirit. But there was a bit of a caveat: The clients taste for furniture and decor leaned much more contemporary, which was a challenge for me to blend seamlessly with the architectural details, says the founder of Mandy Cheng Design.Chengs solution to bridge the styles? Custom built-ins. In the family room, an entertainment center spans a full wall, with arches and integrated windows that warm up the sunny space. The feature pairs nicely with of-the-moment items like a white boucle armchair and globe sconce.Beyond built-ins, Cheng reconfigured the four-bedroom, three-bathroom home into a five bedroom, five bath. Upstairs, the original layout had one oversized bedroom, one smaller room, and a narrow, shared bathroom that was due for an update, Cheng explains. The clients requested separate bathrooms for each childthey have a boy and a girland a refreshed primary suite. By reconfiguring some walls, we were able to add a bathroom, giving each child an en-suite.On the main floor, the couple wanted a more spacious kitchen and a sightline to the family room. So Cheng reoriented the kitchen and removed walls to create an open layout, allowing them to see their kids while they prepare meals. But perhaps the most captivating kitchen addition are the hand-painted tiles sourced from Tabarka, a coastal town in Tunisia. This was a tile-focused project, which was very challenging because they were ordered during the height of the pandemic when everything was stuck at the port, Cheng says.The resulting 3,500-square-foot home is "livable, easy, and fit for play dates and dinner parties alike," Cheng says. While well-suited for modern day living, its original spirit lives on.Family RoomMadeline TolleMadeline Tolle"Figuring out the arches and integrating the windows into the full-wall entertainment center was a process that had such a great payoff," Cheng says. "I love that light comes through that wall, which is uncommon for full-wall built-ins."Sofa: Clad Home. Armchair: Article. Rug: West Elm. Sconce: Arteriors. Millwork: custom, by LA Design Build. Ottoman: custom.Living RoomMadeline TolleA variety of seating, from a blue Maiden Home sofa to a Serena & lily hanging chair, ensures the living room is well equipped for elevated entertaining and for the kids to play games or read.Chandelier: Meadow Blu. Coffee table: One Kings Lane. Rug: Lulu & Georgia. Dining table: CB2. Dining chairs: Crate & Barrel.KitchenMadeline Tolle "By backing the bench upagainst the island, we saved a little space in navigability," Cheng says. "And I love the flexibility and ease that this table offers."Pendants: Visual Comfort. Fixtures: Brizo. Counters: Vadara Quartz. Dining table: RH. Chairs: Hati Home. Bench: Jas Becker.Madeline TolleMadeline Tolle "The arched shroud for the exhaust vent, the tiles with the terracotta-colored grout, the mix of painted and stain-grade cabinets, and the unique corner shelfit all comes together so nicely," Cheng says.Tile: Tabarka Studio. Cabinetry paint: Troubador, Portola Paints. Cabinetry hardware: RH.Dining RoomMadeline Tolle "This is one of the first rooms you see when you enter the house through the front door, and the custom 10-foot table is stunning," Cheng says. "Made for gatherings, I cant imagine a better space to hang out with friends and family."Table: custom, by Estuary Home. Chairs: Design Within Reach. End chairs: Rove Concepts. Rug: Rejuvenation. Light fixture: Park Studio. Wall art: clients own.Primary BathroomMadeline Tolle"The tiles for the primary bath were hand-painted in Mexico," Cheng says.Pool HouseMadeline Tolle "We completely re-imaged the backyard and converted a dusty and somewhat dilapidated garage into a beautiful ADU/pool house, Cheng says, noting the transformation involved "rotating the pitch of the roof, adding a pergola, and opening it up to the newly installed pool."Madeline Tolle While the guest suite includes an efficient kitchen for family and friends who stay over, it also operates as a pool house on sunny days. Cabinetry paint: Hamilton Blue, Benjamin Moore. Cabinetry hardware: Schoolhouse. Tile: Tabarka Studio. Sconces: Illuminate Vintage. Fixtures: Brizo. Sofa: Clad Home. Coffee table: The Vintage Rug Shop.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Every item on this page was hand-picked by a House Beautiful editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.It may not always seem like it, but the holidays are all about balance: A balance between giving and receiving. A balance between an all-out decorating effort and taking a few shortcuts to make things easier on yourself. Balance on a ladder as you hang lights on your house and balance again when you take them down mere weeks later. Sometimes frustrating, always time-consumingbut this is the way its always been and will always be.Or maybe not. Is there another way to deck your house in Christmas lightswithout fear of falling, electrocution, or losing your mind? Turns out, permanent holiday-style lights are an option being considered by a growing number of people.Related StoriesHow Do Permanent Lights Work?Permanent lights like these popular ones from Govee are meant to stay on your house year round, requiring just one installation for up to 50,000 hours worth of festive lighting. The lights are controlled by Google Assistant or Alexa, and can be changed depending on the season. Users can choose from 75 different scene modes and over 16 million color combinations. So you can have warm white lights for the holidays, an orange and purple light display for Halloween, or a full rainbow set up on your home for Pride monthjust change the lights any time you want through the app. These permanent light kits come in lengths of 100 or 200 feet with black or white cords, and the cost starts around $400 if youre installing them yourself.Courtesy of GoveeA house with permanent decorative lights by Govee.Are Permanent Lights A New Phenomenon?Permanent lights have become more popular in the past decade, with more and more festive light companies offering an array of options. Some Reddit users noted that the cost of these lights have gone up since gaining traction during the Covid-19 lockdown, when some cities started to put up lights many months before the holidays in an effort to bolster pandemic-dampened spirits.Are They Actually Worth It?While some reviews commend these permanent lights for durability, ease of set up, and clear instructions, others remained unconvinced that the lights were as functional as they would have liked. A few houses have them around me, wrote one Reddit user. Instead of the distinct lights, theres just this glow. I think it looks tacky. Reviewers on Amazon complained that the app didnt always connect on their phones, making it difficult to control the different functions on a regular basis.Still, Lifehacker noted that after reviewing several different brands, these permanent lights were mostly a win. You install them once, and leave them up all year. They don't look exactly like normal holiday string lights, but the effect is largely the same: a festive, colorful display. The lights are installed under your eaves or gutters and project light back onto the house. If you like, you can face them out like standard holiday lightson your roof, for instance; they'll work fine that way too. Moreover, the impact made by permanent lights puts most incandescent or LED lights to shame."Any Drawbacks to Permanent Lights?The main downfall to adding permanent lights to your home appears to be the upfront cost. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the initial installation cost is a bit of an investment, especially if you have these lights put in by a professional. This can run you anywhere from $2,500 to $5,500 for a standard home installation.This might sound like a lot, but fortunately it is just a one-time price. And think about the money youll save on hospital bills by not falling off a ladder and breaking your leg. It could well be worth it in the end.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

In what feels like a blink of an eye, 2025 is almost herebut does that new year, new you sentiment apply to your real estate portfolio? According to Realtor.com, which just released its 2025 Housing Forecast, the next 12 months might be an excellent time to buy...and sell.Per the report, property prices are slated to grow by 3.7 percentand mortgage rates are poised to stay relatively steady at 6.3 percent until the end of the yearbut prospective home buyers can also expect to see an 11.7 percent increased inventory. The real estate platform indicates a large portion of their insights can be attributed to President-elect Donald Trump's plans to curb unnecessary regulations and make more federal land available for homebuilding. It's a phenomenon Danielle Hale, who is the chief economist at Realtor.com, calls the Trump bump.The size and direction of a Trump bump will depend on what campaign proposals ultimately become policy and when, Hale explains. For now, we expect a gradual improvement in housing market dynamics powered by broader economic factors. The new administration's policies have the potential to enhance or hamper the housing recovery, and the details will matter.Related StoryThough the incoming administration is likely to impact the real estate market, the report's findings are not just about politics. We take into account not only political factors but also both short and long-term macroeconomic factors into our regional and national housing market forecasts, says Ralph McLaughlin, the senior economist at Realtor.com.Since buying and selling are both projected to be on the rise in the New Year, it's important to use this balanced market to your advantage. Buyers should take advantage of higher inventory levels, slower moving homes, and a higher share of price cuts by taking their time to do their due diligence, McLaughlin explains. Find a home that best meets their needs and ask for concessions from sellers. Though McLaughlin says that sellers will need to be flexible and open for negotiation, he also says 2025 is an excellent time to make sure your property is marketableboth from a physical and pricing standpoint.But, wait a second: What about renters? So far, these dramatic shifts won't reach the rental market. We forecast rents to stay flat in 2025 due to a combination of a growing supply of multifamily rental housing as well as growing single-family rental housing, McLaughlin shares. Related Stories:Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

The holiday season is in full swing, and while most people are decking the halls and looking for the best home decor deals, some are instead shopping for homes. That's right, the winter is one of the most popular times to move, just after the early summer when schools let out. Families appreciate the time off from school and work during the holidays to unpack and settle into their dream spaces. And right now, some unexpected locales are experiencing a real estate boom.According to Realtor.com data, the hottest real estate markets all have something in common: low prices and high inventory. Available housing levels were up more than 30 percent year-over-year in the third quarter of 2024, and they only continue to rise. But where are people buying these homes? From Akron, Ohio, to Springfield, Massachusetts, these are the six hottest real estate markets in the country right now.Related Stories6. Springfield, MassachusettsDenisTangneyJr//Getty ImagesMedian Home Price: $393,000Just over the Northern Connecticut border, Springfield, Massachusettes is the sixth most popular real estate market at the end of 2024. Homes here are still well below the national average, despite the state's higher taxes and excellent school systems. The city is the birthplace of Dr. Seuss and is just 30 minutes away from Brimfield, home to one of the largest antique markets in the country.5. Kalamazoo-Portage, MichiganDavel5957//Getty ImagesMedian Home Price: $360,000Kalamazoo is located in Southern Michigan, just east of the eponymous Great Lake's shores. Here homes boast an average selling price of $360,000. This city has a major museum network including the Air Zoo Aerospace and Science Museum, the Kalamazoo Valley Museum, and the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts.4. Manchester-Nashua, New HampshireDenisTangneyJr//Getty ImagesMedian Home Price: $563,000Not only is the Manchester-Nashua area of New Hampshire the fourth hottest real estate market in the country, but it's also where homes sell the fastest, nationwide. Here, homes are a bit more expensive than other cities on this list, but the area boasts a wonderful community, nature access, and Northeastern way of life. Related Story3. Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, WisconsinRon and Patty Thomas//Getty ImagesMedian Home Price: $390,000A beloved midwestern city, it's no wonder why the greater Milwaukee area always makes the list of hottest markets to buy a home. Located on Lake Michigan, this area offers a great balance between urban life and easy access to nature. The city is known for its many breweries and passionate sports fans.2. Akron, OhioSean Pavone//Getty ImagesMedian Home Price: $230,000Akron, Ohio, ranks number two on the most popular real estate markets right now. Here, many different styles of homes are easily affordable, including townhomes and single-family units. Here, residents enjoy a budding arts community and lively minor league sports games. 1 Canton-Masillon, OhioHenryk Sadura//Getty ImagesMedian Home Price: $259,000This quarters top market, the greater Canton area in Ohio, is affordable and in demand. Here, homes are well below the national average in price, some even boasting listing prices of $165,000 or lower. Known for the Pro Football Hall of Fame and a bustling local community, this area in Eastern Ohio is great for families and retirees alike.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Jump to:Whether youre listing your home for sale and relocating to another state or packing up because you found a cute new rental in a nearby city, youre probably curious: How much does it cost to move? Many factors can determine the final moving cost billeverything from the distance of the move and how much stuff you have to whether youll need to get a storage unit for a period in between your move. Once youve determined what types of services youll want to be included in your movewill you be packing up boxes yourself or would you rather hire someone?then you can start calling around for quotes. Using a moving calculator can also help you tally up some of the expenses of moving and give you a ballpark figure of costs. But to get some solid estimates plus budget-saving moving tips, we reached out to Matt Graber, who has 15 years of experience in the industry and is the co-owner of Cool Hand Movers, a top-rated moving company in New York City. Ahead, Graber shares estimates for how much it costs to move between regions, states, and across the country as well as the add-on services that can make your move much easier (but may also tack on some additional costs). Here's what to know.Related StoriesHow Much Does It Cost to Move? svetikd//Getty ImagesThe distance of your move is one of the biggest factors that determines the cost of your move. Moving prices also vary based on the region (New York City moving rates, for instance, are generally higher than in upstate New York), the size of the move, and whether or not packing materials and services are included. Moving specialty items like a piano or a vehicle will also increase the cost. (Grand pianos can cost up to $500 to move even locally, which may explain why you see so many of them for free on sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace!) A local move could cost between $500 to $3,000.Interstate moving prices vary by the total distance between locationsits a much longer stretch between say, Oregon and Southern California than it is between some Northeastern states. For interstate moves between 500 and 1,000 miles, expect to pay anywhere from $1,300 to $8,000 depending on the size of your move and the region you live in. For moves across regions, such as New York City to Chicago, prices will range from $5,000 to $10,000 in most cases. If youre embarking on a cross-country move, expect to pay roughly $10,000 to $15,000.The cost to move internationally depends on where youre moving and how much youll be taking with you. A relocation specialist familiar with your move can help you budget more precisely, but these moves can cost anywhere from $5,000 if youre planning a light move and starting over in a new country to $20,000 and up if youre moving a bunch of your household items and furniture. International moving costs vary widely depending on how your items are shipped and whether you work with local teams at either end of the move.No matter the distance of your move, some costs that might push your move to the higher end of these estimates include additional services like box-packing, crating, disassembling and reassembling furniture, unpacking services, and disposing of items you dont plan to keep.When you call to get a quote, be sure to ask for it to include all the services you want and none that you plan to handle on your own so that you can more accurately compare the quotes.Related StoryWhat Costs Should You Budget for When You Move?When hiring professional movers, expect hourly rates beginning at $65 per mover per hour. Most hourly rates come with a two-hour minimum and a travel fee. Flat rates for moving services can go from $400 to about $10,000, depending on the size of the move and the locations involved.For a self-move, you should budget $500 to $800 for truck rental, packing supplies, and gas, but this, of course, can depend on the distance and size of the move. Rates can increase significantly if you require a larger truck and you're moving to a destination in another state.You may also need to factor in time off of work and renting equipment like a dolly. (You can also purchase a dolly; a two-pack costs about $35 while hand trucks range from about $45 to $200).If you're planning to move in 2025, know that impending tariffs may also affect the costs of moving equipment, vehicles, and vehicle parts required for maintenance. Moving companies will need to raise costs to cover these fees.Related StoryWhat Types of Services Can You Add to Make a Move Easier?Whether youre buying a new home (and selling an existing one) or signing a new lease, moving can be stressful. Here are some services that you can add on to help a move go smoother and save yourself some time. Packing services: $10 to $20 per boxDisassembly and reassembly: The costs will depend on the furniture; a bed and frame could cost between $75 to $300 depending on the type of frame and how many pieces it has.Unpacking services: $5-10 per box that the movers unpack.Junk removal: $50 to $150 per furniture item.Floor protection: $10 per square footStorage unit: starting at $100 a monthRelated StoryShould You Get Moving Insurance?Oscar Wong//Getty ImagesMoving insurance can help you recoup some of your costs should your items become damaged in a move. But is splurging on a more comprehensive plan worth it? First things first, the Department of Transportation requires all movers to provide something called released value coverage. This standard moving insurance, also called basic carrier liability, is a mere 30 to 60 cents per pound per article based on federal and state laws. That means if an expensive item like a Frame TV is broken while in transit, a moving company is only responsible for covering 30 to 60 cents per pound the TV weighs. Or, to put it another way, the most youd compensated on a damaged 100-pound piece of furniture is $60.Moving some expensive items and not comfortable with the standard coverage? You can purchase additional insurance. Full Value Protection: This type of insurance puts the moving company on the hook for items lost or damaged during a move. Your mover will offer to repair the item, replace it with a similar item, or make a cash settlement to cover the repair or the current market value of the item. Movers can limit what items fall under this policy, limiting it to applying only to extraordinary value items that cost at least $100 per poundso this type of insurance wouldnt fully cover replacing something like bar stools, but could apply to fine art. Expect to pay between 1 to 2 percent of the propertys value for this category of insurance.Third-Party Insurance: Opting for a third-party insurance plan for your move will likely provide the most comprehensive coverage, and it may be a good option for those who are moving some expensive items or valuable antiques. These plans vary and have different levels of coverage limits. Expect to pay about 2 to 5 percent of the value of the items youre covering. Tip: Always read the fine print when reviewing moving insurance policies.Related StoryHow to Save on Your Next MoveThe best tip to save on your move? Take less stuff with you! Purging unnecessary, underutilized items ahead of the move can help you scale down on moving costs.If you have some flexibility in your move date, services are usually cheaper in the winter and toward the middle of every month. There is higher demand and, thus, higher rates at the very end and very beginning of the month (when leases start and end) as well as in the spring and summer, which is a busy homebuying season.If youre moving for a job, your employer may provide a relocation package or even fully cover your moving expenses. If your company is reimbursing you for your move costs, ask for the tip to be included on the bill versus handled in cash. You can also request an itemized receipt if your employer requires one.Related StoryHow Can You Get the Most Accurate Quote?If you're considering hiring a moving company, you should get a comprehensive quote in writing; dont just provide an inventory and book a move over the phone. Take the time to read the moving companys terms and conditions. Find out what the potential additional fees are.Ask how the price will change if the move is larger than anticipated. When a company provides a flat rate with very little detail about the move, that rate is likely to change.Also, dont try to save by going with the lowest quote. Companies may cut corners with their equipment, labor, or insurance to offer impossibly low pricing. Any of those can come back to haunt a client.Related StoryWhat Moving Scams Should You Look Out For?To avoid scams and identify red flags, always read reviews and sort by most recent. Most companies that don't take care of clients are repeat offenders, and themes will pop up in reviews. Increasing the job price before unloading the truck, making clients pay for parking tickets, or ghosting when a client reports damages are huge red flags.If you're working with a van line, ask which specific company will be handling your move and check their reviews, not just the reviews of the parent van line. Typically, companies with fewer than four stars on major review sites are likely not delivering consistent quality to their customers, and they probably dont provide adequate resolutions when things go wrong. Finally, having very few reviews despite being in business for a long time may indicate that the company has created new pages to shed a bad reputation.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.Expert consulted:Matt GraberMoving Industry ExpertMatt Graber owns and manages Cool Hand Movers with his wife, Ashley, in New York City. Over the last 15 years, Graber has grown Cool Hand Movers from a man-with-a-van operation to an industry leader in one of the country's most competitive moving markets. Graber believes that the best moves happen when there is transparency between clients, movers, and move managers.

Home Alone is a classic Christmas movie for its heartwarming family story and everlasting comedic moments, but theres no denying the house itself became the 1990 films breakout star. The Georgian-style building is likely one of, if not the first, setting you think of when you conjure up a holiday home in your mind. The Midwestern mansion will surely continue to remain a pillar of festive pop culture for decades to come. While avid seasonal rewatchers are likely already aware the property that portrays the McCallister family home is a real house in Illinois, theres much more to know about the filming location. For starters, did filming actually take place inside of the house? How much is the house worth today? Can you visit it? Weve collected every detail to know about the iconic residence. Brush up on the facts, and impress your guests with Home Alone house trivia the next time you sit down to watch it together. Additional copy by Meghan Shouse.Related StoriesWhere Is the Home Alone House Located?The property you see in the exterior shots is located at 671 Lincoln Ave in Winnetka, Illinois. The town is a northern suburb of Chicago, and according to Zillow, the Colonial was built in 1921.Where Were the Interior Scenes Filmed?The cozy, warm interiors of the Home Alone house look authentic, but they're not from the Winnetka property that depicts the exterior. According to an episode from the 2019 Netflix series The Movies That Made Us, the film's indoor scenes were shot at New Trier Township High Schoolan abandoned school building with enough space for an entire makeshift sound stage. The mansion was too small for the crew to fit inside, director Chris Columbus explained in the special, so they built an entire two-story set in the high school gym. For the scene near the end of the film when Kevin goes into his neighbor's house, the production filmed it in the old school's pool, which made flooding the "basement" much easier.How Much Is the House Worth Today?The 10-bedroom, six-bathroom property hit the market in May 2024 for a whopping $52.25 million. It only lasted a week on the market before it sold.What Is the Square Footage of the House?Today, the Home Alone house spans 9,126 square feet and sits on just over half an acre. Following a major renovation in 2018, the property now includes a basketball court, private movie theater, and, yes, top-of-the-line security cameras. The interiors are also very white, bright, and moderna stark contrast to the sets in the movie. You can see the inside of the home from its recent real estate listing here.Can You Visit the House?In 2021, Airbnb opened the home's doors for a one-night-only stay hosted by none other than Kevin's older brother, Buzz. Apart from that once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, there's currently no way to get inside unless you know the owners. However, many fans still (respectfully!) walk or drive by the house each year and take pictures of the exterior.Who Lived in the Home Alone House in 1990?At the time of filming, John and Cynthia Abendshien lived in the home. They had reportedly been living in the house for only two years before the movie aired in 1990. John Abendshien said of the movie's writer-producer, "John Hughes had a real interest in filming in community settings. He, I understand, grew up in the North Shore and really wanted his sets and backgrounds to have a real world, a true neighborhood, and a true-home-type ambiance."Who Lives in the Home Alone House Now?In May 2011, the Abendshiens put the home up for sale for $2.4 million before lowering the price in September to $1.995 million. The home ended up selling to Tim and Trisha Johnson for $1.585 million in 2012. The couple renovated the place in 2018, and then put it on the market for $5.25 million in 2024. It sold shortly after being placed on the market, and the buyer has not been revealed.Were Any Other Movies or TV Shows Filmed at the Home Alone House?Hughes loved Chicago, and according to the Netflix special, the filmmaker also shot Ferris Bueller's Day Off and Uncle Buck at the abandoned high school where the Home Alone house interiors were built. When it comes to the house that portrays the exterior, there actually may be a connection to the beloved '90s sitcom Friends. Apparently, the series used stock footage from Home Alone to represent the house Monica and Chandler (played by the late Matthew Perry) move into at the end of the series. If you look carefully, you can see the same neighbor's blue home with a wreath on the door from the inside windows. So, in a sense, you could say that the Bings bought the McCallisters' place! Of course, Chandler and Monica moved to a New York City suburb, not a Chicago one, but it's a fun connection nonetheless.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Understanding your personal style is essential for creating a curated and cohesive lifestyle. Knowing your preferences, dislikes, and openness to new experiences can influence various aspects of your life, particularly your interior design choices. Like fashion, there are countless interior design styles to explore. These styles go well beyond the basic concepts of minimalism and maximalism, offering a rich palette of inspiration for furniture choices and home decor aesthetics. By familiarizing yourself with different interior design styles, you gain a useful vocabulary when shopping for your home.Interior design styles may originate from specific eras, such as Art Deco in the 1920s, or stem from a regional love for particular textures, colors, and finishes, like Scandinavian design. For instance, you might associate the clean lines of midcentury modern style with the postwar era or identify the vibrant colors and patterns that define maximalist design. Whether emerging from a historical period or a geographical influence like Mediterranean, every interior design style has a distinctive name.Nearly all items in your home can be categorized by an interior design style. Your floral curtains may be seen as Grandmillenial, while your roll-arm sofa might epitomize English Country style. More importantly, once you solidify your understanding of interior design styles, you can truly enjoy the creative journey. In the words of award-winning interior designer Nate Berkus, The best design projects were the ones where people broke all the rules. Because after all, the most impactful design style is your own. Read on to learn about the interior design styles you need to know.Additional copy by Angela Belt.More on interior design styles and trends:Southern TraditionalHeidi HarrisSimilar to the, well, Traditional interior design style, this Southern take on it offers more chances to have fun. Often seen with brighter color palettes and more pattern mixing, Southern Traditional adds a touch of whimsy to the Traditional interior style. This home in Atlanta, designed by Anna-Wooten Loggins has bursts of color everywhere, not just the kids' spaces. Monograms are a must-have, and wallpaper is welcome everywhere from the powder room to the den. Palm BeachCarmel BrantleyThere are several types of coastal aesthetics, but none are as specific as the Palm Beach style. Known for its sea-inspired hues, colorful prints, and playful furniture silhouettes (picture a lot of scallops and woven textures), this style is as sophisticated as it is playful. This home by Kemble Interiors displays it perfectly.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowMidcentury Modern ADRIAN GAUTThough it has recently become a catchall term for anything 20th-century, midcentury modern refers to designs from the middle of the 20th century (generally the mid-1940s to early 1970s). Though Frank Lloyd Wright created his own signature style of organic modernism, several classic midcentury modern details are apparent in this restored prefab house of his design: warm wood paneling, brown bathroom tiles, and chrome plumbing. Japanese influenceas seen by the folding screen atop the bedwas also prominent in American midcentury modernism. Related Story: 40 Midcentury Modern Living Rooms That Get the Retro Balance RightNeo-Industrial William AbranowiczNot to be confused with industrial design, which refers to work made for industrial purposes, neo-industrial, or industrial-style interior design borrows elements of industrial architecturelike the concrete walls, steel details, and spartan windows in this home by Kathleen McCormickfor use in residential interiors. Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowTraditional Courtesy of Corey Damen JenkinsDesigner Corey Damen Jenkins has a knack for making a home's traditional interior design style look freshhe even wrote a book titled Design Remix: A New Spin on Traditional Rooms. In this dining room, paneled mahogany walls are lit by 19th-century sconces, and an antique table is surrounded by Louis XVI chairs. TransitionalJulie SoeferSpaces that bridge the gap between modern and traditionallike this living room by Marie Flaniganare dubbed transitional. Here, the designer pairs classic elements like a bench seat sofa and antique coffee table with modern lines on the stone side table and 21st-century artwork.Tour the Entire HomeAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowMaximalistKEVIN J. MIYAZAKICombining colors, patterns, and textures is the path to a maximalist interior. If you're inclined to go for a more is more approach, you'll hardly go wrong. The trick to having it not look overwhelming is balance. Take inspiration from our 2023 Whole Home where designer Isabel Ladd decked out the primary suite in perfectly paired palettes. ScandinavianChristian TorresAt its core, the Scandinavian interior design style is characterized by an aesthetic that combines minimalism with coziness and functionality. Picture high-pile rugs and natural wood tones, crisp bedding, and clutter-free interiors. Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowFarmhouseALI HARPERWith an eye toward functional simplicity, Farmhouse style suggests a more humble, vernacular interpretation of American historical styles from the 18th and 19th centuries, whether they be Colonial, Greek Revival, or Victorian, explains architect Gil Schafer.Tour the Entire HomeAmericanaReid RollsThe Americana interior design style blends Farmhouse charm with midcentury-chic elements. Key features include wood paneling, vintage artwork, and functional finishes. To complete the look, consider adding checkerboard prints, patchwork quilts, and vintage solid wood furniture.Tour the Entire HomeAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowRusticEric PiaseckiThe rough-and-ready cousin of the Farmhouse design style, Rustic design is focused on organic elements (like unpolished stone and natural wood), a neutral color palette, and functionality. The beauty lies within the craftsmanship of the pieces used. Think about this Montana home for inspiration.Tour the Entire HomeMinimalist Robson RakMinimalism is about paring down the decor and color palette to just the basics. Since this interior design style means doing more with less, you'll often notice the importance of light and contrast in minimalist spaces, like this one by Robson Rak.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowBohemianStephen KarlischBohemian design combines global influences and an artfully mismatched approach to design. This style mixes colors, patterns, and textures in ways that feel eclectic and exciting. A rich palette of jewel tones and large-scale patterns is key, as is fabric upholstery and natural textures (think rattan, wicker, and seagrass) that bring the outdoors in.Related Story: 25 Boho Bedrooms to Inspire Your Dream OasisMediterraneanDouglas FriedmanCombining elements of Spanish, Italian, and French design, the Mediterranean interior design style is essentially a different spin on coastal style. The go-to color pairing is blue and white, but you can warm it up with terra-cotta, natural wood tones, and earthy textures like rattan and stone.Tour the Entire HomeAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowFrench CountryTrevor TondroFrench county design combines natural materials, muted paint colors, toile fabrics, extravagant lighting, touches of gold, woven tapestries, and moreall with a rustic touch. Throw matching sets to the curb and focus on antiques rather than buying new pieces. The overall effect of French country decor is meant to be warm, welcoming, and casual.Eclecticmanufoto llcThe eclectic interior design style, similar to maximalist interior design, incorporates elements from various styles, periods, and locations to create a unique space. It features a mix of vintage and new items, giving the room an appearance of having been slowly curated and assembled over time. Tour the Entire HomeAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below'70s RevivalAdrian GautTaking classic silhouettes and color palettes from the 1970s and giving them a modern twist is key to this interior design style. You can skip the shag carpets, but incorporate brown tones, chrome metal finishes, and low-slung furniture for a cozy, updated feel.English CottageJonathan Bond PhotographyThis interior design style combines several elements of traditional British country houses, like floral wallpaper, painted millwork, vintage touches, and fanciful textures, and updates them for modern use, as designer Elizabeth Hay did here in her family home.Tour the Entire HomeRelated Story: How to Capture the Cozy Cottagecore Aesthetic at HomeAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowArt DecoFrancesco LagneseWith roots in '20s-era European design, Art Deco prioritizes geometric forms paired with luxe materials like lacquer, mirrored glass, and marble. Modern interpretations, like this hall by Nick Olsen, give this interior design style a colorful, contemporary refresh.Modern FarmhouseLauren MillerModern Farmhouse can be considered a simplified blend of traditional, neo-industrial, and midcentury interior design styles. A more minimal color palette is also common, like in this living room by Ashley Montgomery.Tour the Entire Home

Interior design trends span a dizzyingly wide range of areas in your home, from the expansive (think whole-home ideas like layout of rooms and what your home's exterior looks like) to the minute (details like door knobs and electrical socket covers). Kitchens are no different: Trends dictate what cabinet colors and island shapes are currently making wavesbut what about the hardware? Often called the jewelry of the kitchen by industry professionals, hardware is your kitchen's finishing touch. To give us the scoop on the hottest kitchen hardware trends for 2025, we asked designers and hardware experts to give us their predictions. They answered with a list that included a new take on black hardware, earring-like knobs, and oversized handles. Better yet, you don't need to cook regularly to enjoy these trends. Swapping out your kitchen hardware is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to upgrade your kitchen. It also happens to be rental-friendly. To spark your inspiration for a New Year's home refresh, read on for the top eight kitchen hardware trends on the rise for 2025.Discover more 2025 trends:

The innovative manufacturer Cosentino has long been renowned for its high-quality, incredibly durable engineered surfaces that peerlessly emulate the look of natural stone. Along the way, it's also become known for its attention to sustainability in its manufacturingand the company continues to raise the bar on both fronts.In fact, Cosentino has as one of its stated missions to minimize environmental impact. Accordingly, its production processes are fully powered by electricity from renewable sources. Heat from the kilns used to produce its surfaces is recovered with a sophisticated energy-management system and then used in other steps of the manufacturing process, reducing emissions further.Most recently, Cosentino has gone next-generation for the updated version of its signature surface, Silestone, with a technology called Hybriq+, which drastically reduces its crystalline silica content to a maximum of 10 percent. Yet form was in no way sacrificed for function: Hybriq+ uses a proprietary mix of minerals that result in natural-looking luster, color, and depth, as evidenced by the new, beautifully veined Le Chic Bohme collection.Watch the video above to learn more about Cosentino's commitment to sustainability and the Le Chic Bohme line, on a tour of the brand's new state-of-the-art showroom we were given by its general manager, Victor Manuel Garcia.

When interior designer Minnette Jackson and her family relocated from Nashville to Houston, the fresh start came with an opportunity to once again turn an unfamiliar setting into a home. I had slowly made our previous home a place we loved to be and to entertain, and now I got to repeat the process in a new place, says designer. My goal is always to create something classic, fresh, and livable but still have an air of everyday elegance, even with kiddos running around. The 1935 brick homes dreary yellow exterior didnt stop Jackson from seeing its charm. A turret on the front of the house, a nod to Tudor-style architecture, drew her in. The house needed a handful of immediate upgrades, like new windows and a partial foundation repair, but the four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom property was otherwise in great shape. The biggest change came in painting the whole house and in refreshing the kitchen, she says.The kitchen layout and cabinetry were good enough to keep, but just about everything elsecountertops, backsplash, hardware, lighting, and most of the paintwas changed to make the space light and bright. In the living room, Jackson honored the history of the house by adding elliptical arches to openings where the previous owner had removed the original casework. A little powder bath also got a big reworkthe new blue-and-white Sandberg wallpaper is reminiscent of the neighborhoods oak trees.Coats of baby blue, crisp white, and soft cream paint revitalize the property inside and out. There was a moment right after the painter started painting the exterior where I wasnt sure about the color, Jackson says of the shade Ballet White by Benjamin Moore. I almost panicked but then looked closely at the bucket and realized the store had mixed the color wrong. Thank goodness he had only just begun painting, and it was an easy fix!Throughout the 3,200-square-foot-space, Jackson mixed antiques and contemporary furnishings and decor. I do love objects with a story and incorporated several pieces that were in my family or my husbands family, as well as pieces we found together while traveling, Jackson says. Though the renovation was largely cosmetic, Jackson says the house feels much bigger now. And most importantly, it feels like a place where everyone who enters will feel happy and welcome.EntrywayPr BengtssonThe front door of our home is in the turret on the front of the house, so you enter into this airy, two-story space with the original leaded glass above the door, Jackson says. The footprint is small, so I found a shallow piece to go along the wall, this antique Italian bench.As for the art, Jackson calls out the large-scale painting by artist Ashley Longshore (left) as it's both bold in presence but elegant in subject matter; The birds feel a bit like they are flying above you. I love the pairing and how it greets you.Wall art (right): Michael Allen Lowe. Bench: antique, upholstered in Lee Jofa cut velvet. Rug, chest, and lamp: antique.Living RoomPr BengtssonOur living room is long and narrow and was a little tricky to layout, Jackson admits. She ended up creating two seating areas, and she says, I particularly love this end of the room and how cozy it is. At night, its a lovely place to sit with the glow of the brass floor lamps and a favorite cocktail.The Creative Flooring rug is an indoor-outdoor rug, which Jackson notes has been tested many times over.Lamps: Galerie des Lampes. Wall art: Will Berry. Wall paint: custom, by Pittsburgh Paints. Curtains: Joseph Noble, with Schumacher trim. Chairs: vintage, in strie velvet with Samuel & Sons trim. Sofa: vintage. Table: antique.KitchenPr BengtssonIt was a bit dark, with a strange mix of colors, Jackson says of the original kitchen. Ceramic lighting, cream paint, and warm nickel finishes now make it feel inviting.Pendants: Devol Kitchens. Bar stool slipcovers: Pindler. Faucet: Rohl. Counters: Arabescato marble, Bespoke Countertops. Cabinetry paint: customPr BengtssonWhen Jackson and her family moved into this house, the designer had no clue how much theyd actually use their small but mighty breakfast nook in the corner of the kitchen. We start every morning with a kid breakfast and end most days with casual dinners here, she says, noting that the glossy modern table and woven chairs are easy to clean. Bonus is that this little nook looks out on our front courtyard, and its a nice place to sit with your coffee as you gather your thoughts.Table: AllModern. Chairs: Sika Designs. Wall paint: custom. Wall art: vintageDining RoomPr BengtssonThe dining room opens right out onto our back patio, so I felt the room called for an organic element to temper the more formal pieces, Jackson says. I used a neutral paper weave to add an earthy element, while the silk DeGournay panels and vintage stools give a luxe factor. I do love to entertain, and we eat here often! Wallpaper: Cowtan & Tout. Table: Phillips Scott. Chandelier: Niermann Weeks for Visual Comfort. Chair fabric: Fabricut. Wall art: vintage DeGournay hand-painted silk panels via Jessica Lev Antiques. Mirror, lamps, and rug: antique.Powder RoomPr BengtssonIts tiny with just enough room for the toilet and pedestal sink, so I wanted it to become a jewel box, Jackson says. The Sandberg wallpaper was perfect, especially given our neighborhoods hallmark oak trees. A contemporary wall light gives a soft glow thats ultra-flattering for guests.Ceiling and trim paint: Van Courtland Blue, Benjamin Moore. Sconce: Visual Comfort. Fixtures: Newport Brass. Mirror: antique.Primary BedroomPr BengtssonOur bedroom has windows on three sides, so it feels a bit like you are perched up in your own private little treehouse, Jackson says. I wanted to keep the feeling serene and went with a palette of watery blues and greens.Wall paint: Sea Salt, Sherwin-Williams. Light fixture: West Elm. Bedding: Matouk. Accent pillow fabric: Cowtan & Tout. Bench: Bliss Studio, in Schumacher fabric. Headboard: custom, in Kerry Joyce fabric. Rug: Oushak, purchased in Istanbul. Nightstand and mirror: antique.NurseryPr BengtssonA vintage Herms scarf, framed above the crib, inspired this whole room. With graduated blues and a menagerie of charming hot air balloons floating through the design, I let those colors guide me, she says.Even though hes still very young, her son is not likely to outgrow the Phillip Jeffries wallcovering, blue linen curtains with Samuel & Sons trim, and ottoman in blue Schumacher performance linen. It is very sweet for a little baby boy but can easily grow with him as the furniture changes, Jackson says.Crib: Jenny Lind. Crib sheet: Biscuit Home. Chair: Jessica Charles. Ottoman trim: Travers.Guest BedroomPr BengtssonThis room has a vaulted ceiling and gets the best light Jackson says. I knew I wanted to use a mix of earthy elements and also incorporate this blue-and-white pattern we had in our former home.For the drapery, Jackson reused curtains from her parents house. I had a workroom cut it down and add trim, the designer says. Most of the cost was in the laborI saved big on the materials.Another DIY are the bracket shelves above the bed, which Jackson collected and painted herself. I was having a hard time finding what I saw in my head, so I just collected several vintage ones in weird colors and painted them to match, she says. I love finding little objects and rehabbing them.Wall paint: Pointing, Farrow & Ball. Bedding: Matouk. Nightstand: Ballard Designs. Table lamp: Regina Andrews, with Fermoie lampshade. Figurines: Fitz & Floyd. Headboard, chair, and ottoman: custom. Mirror: vintage John Widdicomb.BackyardPr BengtssonOur back area is compact, so I like to think of it as more of a little garden terrace, Jackson says of the space, where evening dinners and occasional breakfasts are held when the weather is nice. The antique Chicago brick is laid in a herringbone pattern and suits the house beautifully.Jackson also invested in landscaping for the property thanks to Gregory/Henry Landscapes. Neighbors actually stop me and say how nice it looks now, the designer adds.Awning: Awnings Houston. Tablecloth: Cotton Print Club via Etsy. Exterior paint: Ballet White, Benjamin Moore (at 75 percent strength). Chairs: vintage.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Jump to:Art Nouveau, or "new art" in French, is an architectural and artistic movement that emerged in the late 19th century and lasted through World War II. Known for its flowing lines, organic forms, and intricate ornamentation, Art Nouveau marked a departure from more traditional styles, such as neoclassicism and Gothic Revival, in favor of developing an entirely new style that blended art, design, and technology in groundbreaking ways. While new technology and materials were used to create Art Nouveau works, there was still a great emphasis on craftsmanship and originality. It remains one of the most easily identifiable design styles, thanks to its distinctive look. Here's what you need to know about Art Nouveau architecture and its impact on design history.Related StoriesWhat Is Art Nouveau Architecture?Alexander Spatari//Getty ImagesArt Nouveaustyle apartment buildings in Barcelona, Spain.Art Nouveau architecture is a design style defined by dramatic, nature-inspired ornamentation, often with whiplash curves and flowing lines that look like vines. At its core, Art Nouveau architecture sought to break away from historical revival styles, such as Gothic or Neoclassical architecture, that dominated much of the 19th century. Instead, it aimed to create something entirely newhence the movement's name. It became the first design movement of the modern era.The History of Art Nouveau ArchitectureThe Art Nouveau movement began in Europe as a response to the Industrial Revolution and the dominance of historical revival styles. Artists and architects sought to create a design language that celebrated originality and craftsmanship while still embracing new technologies and materials. While the movement began in the late 19th century across France and Belgium, its popularity flourished globally after the 1900 Paris Exposition Universelle, where Art Nouveau artists and designers displayed their works in the style.Outside of France and Belgium, Art Nouveau took on different names. In Austria, it was known as Sezzionstil; in Germany, Jugendstil; in Italy, Stile Liberty or Floreale; and in Spain, Modernismo or Modernista.Related StoryDefining Features of Art Nouveau ArchitectureHeritage Images//Getty ImagesArt Nouveau stained glass windows in Brussels, Belgium.Art Nouveau architecture is instantly recognizable due to its unique characteristics, which include the following:Organic Forms and MotifsThis is undoubtedly the design movement's key characteristic. All Art Nouveau architecture features curving lines and forms that emulate naturefaades, interiors, and structural details include those whiplash curves that look like vines or plants.Intricate OrnamentationWrought-iron railings, mosaic tiles, and stained glass windows display Art Nouveau's famous organic forms and motifs.Innovative MaterialsArchitects used materials such as glass, iron, and ceramic tiles in creative ways to achieve organic designs.AsymmetryUnlike the more balanced designs of earlier styles, Art Nouveau embraced irregular and dynamic compositions.Famous Art Nouveau Buildings and StructuresHtel Tassel by Victor Horta, Brussels, BelgiumHeritage Images//Getty ImagesBuilt in 1893, the Htel Tassel is perhaps the foundation for Art Nouveau architecture with its swirling vine-like lines inside and out.Casa Batll by Antoni Gaud, BarcelonaAndrei Potorochin//Getty ImagesAntoni Gauds imagination ran wild with designing Casa Batll in Barcelona, which exemplifies Spain's take on Art Nouveau: the Modernista style of architecture.Paris Mtro Station Entrance Gates by Hector Guimardlegna69//Getty ImagesDesigned for the then-new subway system, these entrance gates by Hector Guimard introduced the Parisian public to Art Nouveau.Municipal House by Osvald Polvka and Antonn Balnek, PragueSylvain Sonnet//Getty ImagesThis public building in Prague is adorned with lavish mosaics and sculptures; Czech painter and illustrator Alphonse Mucha contributed to the interiors.Related StoryArt Nouveau Architecture FAQsWhy did Art Nouveau decline?Art Nouveau declined at the advent of World War I, as society focused less on the arts and more on technology. After World War I, Art Deco became the dominant style.What's the difference between Art Nouveau and Art Deco?While both Art Nouveau and Art Deco are decorative movements, their aesthetics are distinct. Art Nouveau came first, and it's best known for its organic, flowing forms. Art Deco came later, and it's defined by geometric shapes, bold lines, and a focus on modernity and luxury. While both movements are considered modern, and they used new technology in their creation, Art Nouveau celebrates the beauty of the natural world, while Art Deco embraces the speed and glamour of the machine age.What is Art Nouveau beyond architecture?Art Nouveau was not limited to architecture; it flourished in the fine arts, graphic arts, and decorative arts, too. Some iconic Art Nouveau works include posters by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec and Alphonse Mucha, paintings by Gustav Klimt, lamps by Louis Comfort Tiffany, and furniture by Louis Majorelle.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

southerlycourse//Getty ImagesEvery item on this page was hand-picked by a House Beautiful editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.Moving out of the United States may sound appealing for cultural, political, or personal reasons, but the process can be challenging. Securing the right visa for you and your family is often a difficult task, especially without easy entry options like schooling or family ties. Still, if your desire to leave the U.S. is strong, several countries are actively seeking new residents and are offering financial incentives to attract them, albeit with specific requirements.It's important to note that these incentives aren't get-rich-quick schemes nor do they guarantee citizenship. Though some countries offer payments to entice new residents, you'll need to invest considerable time, effort, and resources to secure and maintain your residency.Think of these opportunities as a starting point for relocating abroad, especially if you've already been considering the move. Some U.S. cities offer similar incentives, although moving within the country is generally less complex than an international relocation. Read on to see which five countries are offering financial incentives for relocation, along with their associated conditions.Related StoriesCountries That Will Pay You to Move ThereIrelandAtlantide Phototravel//Getty ImagesThis is great news for people who love Guinness, Hozier, and Sinad O'Connor because Ireland is indeed one of the countries that will pay you to move there. However, if you've got Dublin on your mind, we hate to burst your bubble; You'll have to be okay with living on a remote island if this is your plan of action. Ireland is trying to increase the population of 30 coastal islands off the mainland, and that's why they started their Our Living Islands program.It's through this program that you can apply for a Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant where you can get up to 70,000 to refurbish a once-vacant home on one of these islands. The structure has to have been built before or during 2007, and it must've been vacant for at least two years to qualify. However, one large drawback is this program won't offer you residency, so you'll still have to find a way to get a visa.Related StorySwitzerlandsoutherlycourse//Getty ImagesThe small village of Albinen, Switzerland is another that's facing depopulation, so they're paying 25,000 Swiss francs per adult under the age of 45 and 10,000 Swiss francs per child to incentivize people to move there. Switzerland is considered one of the best places to live and work, and though Albinen is small, with a population of only about 250 people, it boasts beautiful scenery. It'd be best to have a remote job if this is an incentive you're able to take.Unfortunately, there are quite a few catches to this program. According to Secret NYC, to get the money, you must purchase a home worth a minimum value of 200,000 Swiss francs, and you must live in it for at least 10 years. And to qualify for this program, you also must be either a citizen of Switzerland or already have permanent residency.Related StoryItalyEllen van Bodegom//Getty ImagesThe region of Sardinia, Italy is a wonderful place to move if you want a rural lifestyle and already have a visa to reside in the country. To combat a shrinking population, the government is setting aside 45 million that would go toward 3,000 grants of up to 15,000 each, according to CNBC.To qualify for this grant, you must move to a Sardinian town made up of fewer than 3,000 people, use the grant money toward renovating your home, live there full-time, and register Sardinia as your permanent residence within 18 months. You can find more information on the region's official websiteit is unclear whether or not the 3,000 spaces have been filled yet, so you might still have a chance.Related StoryCountries That Offer Incentives to AmericansJapantororo//Getty ImagesThe Regional Revitalization Corps (RRC) is an incentive program that started in 2008, according to The Japan Times, to combat the depopulation of Japan's more rural villages and areas. It's a program that pays people around 3 million, or about $20,000, with bonuses for living expenses, per year for up to three years to move from the city to the countryside. Their goal is to reach 10,000 members by 2026, so they're looking to foreign-born residents to expand their goal and increase tourism in these areas. In 2024, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications started actively recruiting foreigners with work visas to volunteer for this program.Related StoryChilejopstock//Getty ImagesIf you have a tech startup company, whether it's in the early or later stages, you might want to consider moving it over to Chile. Back in 2010, Start-Up Chile, an accelerator program, was born as a way to turn the country, specifically the capital of Santiago, into a tech hub. Depending on how advanced your company is and if you have female leadership, you could earn an equity-free grant ranging anywhere from 15 million Chilean pesos (or about $15,000) to 75 million Chilean pesos (or about $100,000), along with a one-year work visa, according to AFAR. Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Every item on this page was hand-picked by a House Beautiful editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.Having a distinct personal style or a strong color palette at home can make holiday decorating a bit challenging. Traditional festive decor often involves an abundance of reds and greens, and an array of bows, lights, and garlands. While the classic look has its fans, it isn't for everyone. If the usual holiday decorating approach doesn't appeal to you because it's too kitschy or it clashes with everything you own, consider different ways to infuse your home with festive flair.You don't have to conform or skip decorating altogether. Instead, you can explore alternative ways to bring the holiday spirit into your home. We consulted 10 interior designers to discover how they would style a holiday hater's house for this upcoming festive season.Related StoriesStick to Monochrome SilhouettesObakkiI love using items with the silhouette of traditional decorations but are monochromatic for a more elevated holiday look, Treana Peake, founder of Obakki, tells House Beautiful. Decorating like this can still evoke those warm holiday feelings without the need for kitschy trinkets and loud hues.Peake likes to use winter white for her silhouette decor because it'll pair with any florals, candles, or tableware in your space, but it also feels more timeless than traditional decor. Branch CandelabraNow 27% Off$3,995 $2,925 at obakki.comHandwoven Holiday WreathNow 61% Off$500 $194 at obakki.comHandwoven Holiday TreeNow 27% Off$3,495 $2,559 at obakki.comRecycled Raw Cotton Christmas OrnamentsNow 23% Off$22 $17 at obakki.comGo for the GoldJared Kuzia PhotographyWhen used in holiday decorating, gold shines extra brightly. Designer Cecilia Casagrande suggests embracing this metallic tone by investing in beautiful gold vases and filling them with rich holiday-hued flowers.Plus, once the festive season is over, simply switch out the flowers. This way, you'll get to enjoy the decor through the New Year and beyond. Gold Ceramic Flower Vase$24 at AmazonLumiere Petite Candlestick$24 at AnthropologieFaux Red Hellebores Arrangement$400 at Williams SonomaGold Hollow Ceramic Vases$37 at AmazonMake It MetallicCourtesy of Element Design NetworkDesigner Laura Chappetto, owner and lead designer of Element Design Network, understands how the frustration of hearing Christmas music before October is even over can turn someone off of traditional holiday decor. Her advice on finding a happy medium? Go hard on metallics! Gold and silver can make a world of difference when decorating your house for the holidays, she says. Plus, their reflective sparkle leads you right into the New Year and adds a nice glow to the dark nights of January. Faux Shimmer Wreath & GarlandNow 40% Off$129 $77 at West ElmDiamond Dust Champagne TreeNow 25% Off$1,299 $974 at Frontgate"All That Glitters" Bottle Brush Christmas Trees, Set of 8$50 at Crate & BarrelGold Shimmering Ice Flexible GarlandNow 30% Off$129 $90 at FrontgateRelated StoryGet a Little SpookyJames MerrellDesigned by Charlotte Moss.If Halloween flew by a bit too quickly for you this year, then lean into the whimsigoth trend for your winter holiday decorations. While designer Becky Shea has never done this, she believes a Nightmare Before Christmas theme would be a cool, unconventional way to capture a holiday vibe. Imagine a Christmas tree decorated in black and white, with touches of purple or funky black ornaments, she says. Its a creative way to make your space feel festive without being overly traditional, perfect for those who want a more alternative holiday atmosphere. She would even go so far as to add cobwebs, skeletons, and other quirky accents to give it a more playful edge. Orren Ellis Monochrome Stripe 8-Piece Glass Ornament Set$61 at WayfairPersonalized Black Christmas Stocking$26 at EtsyFaux Fur Christmas Tree SkirtNow 35% Off$17 $11 at EtsyHigh Quality Glass Noire Nouveau Ornament CollectionNow 25% Off$319 $239 at FrontgateSwap in Woodland TonesJames MerrellDesigned by Charlotte Moss.This holiday, nix the red and go all in on greens and other earthy, naturalistic tones in your alternative holiday decor. Designer Alisia Sophia calls this a winter woodland wonderland style. She suggests incorporating birchwood candles, pinecones, feathers, soft cozy knit throws, and Mongolian sheepskin pillows into your home, as well as figurines of deer, twinkle lights, and fresh greenery for a cool, idyllic scene.Rye Brown Mongolian Sheepskin Throw Pillow Cover$120 at Crate & BarrelBattery Operated Fairy Lights with Remote and Timer$16 at AmazonColonial Tin Works Golden Reindeer Figurines$60 at Amazon$60 at WalmartPremium Flickering Flameless Candle - Birch Texture$69 at Pottery BarnPaint It BlackCharlotte LeaHema Persad, the founder and principal designer of Sagrada Studio, also thinks all-black makes for a very chic Christmas theme. It's a great backdrop for twinkly lights and green and wood accents, she says. I use a black Christmas tree somewhere every yearwe have a few different ones including a white one and a traditional green oneand black taper candles mixed with greenery for table decor. This approach is less about spooky vibes than inviting in a sleek and elegant look. The Holiday Aisle Pre-lit Black Christmas Tree$235 at WayfairLive Olive Leaf and Myrtle Wreath & Garland$109 at Pottery BarnLipper International Cherry Finished Wavy Rim Serving Bowl12" Dipped Black Taper Candles, Set of 2$7 at Crate & BarrelStay True to YourselfLaurey GlennDesigned by Rachel Barrett.Marya Karlton of Karlton Kelly Interiors puts it simply: Find holiday pieces that fit your established aesthetic, and don't conform to traditional styles.While I don't love burgundy and dark reds, I do love pink and orange, so we have pom-pom garlands from ABC Home in those colors, and they make our tree so cheerful, Karlton says. She also suggests opting for handmade tchotchkes rather than mass-produced ones to keep with your unique look. Cody Foster Pom Pom Garland$45 at MaisonetteSki Gondola Ornament$28 at craftspring.comFeldspar x Lucy Williams Home Candlestick$157 at feldspar.studioNYC Rainbow Snow Globe$68 at abchome.comMaximize ColorRandall PaetzoldDon't let traditional holiday hues confine youdesigner Rebecca Bobroff wants you to decorate with any colors you want this holiday season. I love to let go of the restraint of typical holiday palettes in favor of more prismatic ones. This time of year is filled with such vibrancy and fun; let your holiday decor play into the same, she says. We say this is also a great opportunity to incorporate colorful decor that isn't necessarily holiday-themed to make this alternative idea feel less seasonal.Paper Source Rainbow Felt Pom Garland$20 at Paper SourceLouis Vuitton: Virgil Abloh (Classic Cartoon Cover)$140 at AssoulineFIND YOUR TRUTH ART PRINT$675 at hapiart.comMacKenzie-Childs Granny Kitsch 5 Piece Bottle Brush Gift Trees Set$199 at WayfairChoose a Subtle Seasonal CenterpieceDustin HalleckSetting out a centerpiece clad in the colors of the season is how you can hint at the holidays instead of going full Santa's Workshop. Elizabeth Mollen, CEO of Stone Textile Studio, suggests displaying green apples, pomegranates, oranges with cloves, or any mix of winter fruits in deep reds and dark purples. Of the photo pictured above, Mollen says, We love how the bright colors contrast with the neutral colors of the marble countertops. It creates a fresher, lighter holiday feeling. Winston Porter Fleuriel Glass Bowl$49 at WayfairFresh Evergreen & Pomegranate Centerpiece$99 at calyxflowers.com12 Pack Tall Taper CandlesNow 27% Off$26 $19 at AmazonAmber Bubble Glass Goblets$92 at ShopifyBrowse Grandma's AtticTori Sikkema PhotographySave a few bucks this holiday season and shop from Grandma's house instead. That's what designer Tori Freise suggests if you're looking for an alternative to the usual seasonal accessories. You may find china, crystal, and vintage ornaments that bring you joy and remind you of your childhood, she offers. Combining these well-loved pieces evokes a nostalgic mood that can be remixed in surprisingly chic ways. I recommend placing a vintage ornament on top of your holiday place setting for a fun and personal touch, she says. Frostine Table Runner$58 at furbishstudio.comVintage Glass Ornaments$35 at EtsyLenox Treasured Porcelain Lit TreeNow 19% OffDeer Acrylic Tray$104 at scoutdesignstudio.comFollow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Every item on this page was hand-picked by a House Beautiful editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.Owen Han has always been drawn to food. Having learned to cook from his Nonna during summers spent in Italy, the kitchen is the content creators number one comfort zone. But after sharing a small apartment with a fellow food creator, Han knew it was time to find a permanent set-upa solo set-up. Han was admittedly a bit nervous about living alone, but his desire for an entire workspace to himself eventually won out. The only requirement Han had for the apartment was no galley kitchen. I swear that every house in LA has a galley kitchen, he says, laughing. But I film overhead and I need space for box lights which makes the traditional hallway layout impossible to work in. After weeks of searching with no luck, Han received the fateful invitation to see the apartment. (He took the call while at a gas station, refueling after yet another unsuccessful viewing.) I saw the kitchen and I knew, he says. That enthusiasm proved fruitful when the landlord said that he was the most memorable applicant.Aaron WojackHans extensive hot sauce and condiment collection are one of few things kept behind closed doors.Aaron WojackStacked, Hans debut cookbook, is packed full of sandwich recipes inspired by his love of culinary experimentation.See it HereAaron WojackCheeky nods to Hans love of food can be found all over the apartment, like this cereal bowl candle.Aaron WojackHan keeps family memorabilia close by, including a show poster to honor his father, the late concert pianist Derek Han.I know its not very neat, but something is inspiring about having all your ingredients on display.The industrial range, while not originally on Han's wishlist, was a welcome surprise and sealed his interest in the space. There was no explanation for the commercial-grade appliances, but Han saw this as a fateful opportunity to further his culinary skills and test his recipes on appliances he would have never had access to prior to moving.Han has lived in his California studio for almost a year (he celebrated the publication of his first cookbook, Stacked: The Art of the Perfect Sandwich, here), and he still doesnt believe in a separation between work and play. And in his cooking, the two are often intertwined. His filming setup stays up 24/7, even the bulky box lights and his overhead tripod. Im filming every day, he explains. I want to be able to go when inspiration strikes rather than wait to put everything back up again. Luckily, mealtimes are content gold, and entertaining more commonly takes place elsewhere. Aaron WojackHans filming set-up stays up 24/7 to allow him to film when the inspiration strikes him. Mealtimes are content gold.Across the apartment, the living room is also set up to allow him to work comfortably. Han often sits on the sectional sofa to edit his videos, plan his content, and write emails. Because I work at all hours of the day, I wanted the rest of my apartment to have a very zen energy, says Han.Inspired by surf culture and his family heritage, Hans design style leans very casual. Of course, there are nods to his Italian upbringing, cookbooks from his grandmother, a poster of his father, pianist Derek Han, and countless other pieces of memorabilia scattered throughout the open shelving.Known for his inventive twists on sandwiches, Hans cooking process is one of improvisation, letting his tastebuds take control.The very first item Han brought into the space, before a bed frame, and even before a sofa, was a large, counter-height kitchen island. I needed a space to film, he says. A surface to continue making videos has always been the priority, everything else can come later. For a while, the island was the only furniture Han had, and it remains his command center for filming, cooking, and recipe ideation even after more comfortable seating entered his space. In the kitchen, there arent any cheesy quotes or large-scale pieces of artwork. Instead, Han showcases his chefs knives and a stack of wooden cutting boards. Everything is within reach for Han to strike while the inspirational iron is hot. It may be chaos to some, but the tools are part of what gets Han excited about working in the kitchen. I know its not very neat, but something is inspiring about having all your ingredients on display, Han says of the controversial kitchen storage method.Aaron WojackPersonalized Nutella jars from a recent brand collaboration.Aaron WojackOne of the many vintage cookbooks from Hans grandmother.The first box I unpacked was all my pots and pans, Han says. Theres a pot rack hanging from the ceiling and it brings me so much joy to see all my tools out in the open. In fact, Hans housewarming present to himself was a green Le Cruset Dutch oven, something he had always wanted, but never had the space for before. His work is his greatest pride and joy, and it rings true throughout the apartment. Aaron WojackBecause of the welcome chaos in his highly trafficked kitchen, the rest of Hans living space was designed to be as zen as possible.Grooming: Jaime MaloneyFollow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Every item on this page was hand-picked by a House Beautiful editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.Setting up your holiday decorations is a cherished tradition, whether you're surrounded by friends and family or enjoying a cozy cup of hot chocolate on your own. While stockings and twinkling lights contribute to the festive ambiance, it's your Christmas tree that truly stands out. To enhance this centerpiece, consider exploring various Christmas tree ribbon ideas. Whether you opt for multicolored baubles or handmade ornaments, ribbons can add a beautifully layered touch.For an elegant and luxurious look, wrap a thick, high-quality velvet ribbon around your tree. If you're embracing the trends of the season, try decorating with multiple bows in matching or contrasting colors. Even for a rustic, natural theme, you'll find Christmas tree ribbon ideas to suit your style. Below, here are 31 Christmas tree ribbon ideas that will elevate your holiday decor to a new level.Additional copy by Kelly Allen and Kate McGregor.For more holiday inspiration:1Tie Multiple Little Bowsninavartanava//Getty ImagesBows have been on trend for a few years now outside of the holiday season, but theyre always timeless around this time of year. Tie multiple small bows in different hues on your tree for a chic Christmas tree ribbon idea that can replace ornaments if youd like.Related Story: Bows Are the Holiday Decor Trend Dominating Our Feeds2Put Up a Few Thicker RibbonsGCShutter//Getty ImagesBalance out the heavy greenery from your tree with thicker ribbons and a big colorful bow on top. The light gold in this Christmas tree ribbon idea matches the holiday theme, but takes some weight off the entire look.Related Story: 30 Easy DIY Christmas Trees That Make Your Space Extra MerryAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below3Go Crazy With the BowsKatsumi Murouchi//Getty ImagesCompletely cover your Christmas tree with bows of different colors. The red and gold bows here fit perfectly in between the similarly colored ornaments.4Drape Them VerticallyAnjelika Gretskaia//Getty ImagesThe curled gold Christmas tree ribbon idea adds a nice, feminine touch, especially alongside the pink baubles and gift wrap. The ribbons are spread throughout, almost giving them a connected look, like theyre snaking between the branches.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below5Choose a Single Statement RibbonSandra Clegg//Getty ImagesFor a shorter Christmas tree, go with a single statement ribbon. This way, it wont feel like youre going overboard with the decoration, and you can still add a good number of ornaments.6Go With a Two-Toned OptionComstock Images//Getty ImagesFor a visually striking Christmas tree, go with a ribbon that has two tones; in this case, translucent white and a deep red velvet. It stands out among the branches and ornaments, and it gives your tree a more modern feel.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below7Match the OrnamentsNadezhdaAbramian//Getty ImagesFor a subtle Christmas tree ribbon idea, choose to match your ornaments and your ribbon so it all looks very cohesive. This wont make either the ribbon or the baubles stand outtheyll look so chic together in one hue.8Go With Barbie Pink RibbonMaryna Terletska//Getty ImagesA sheer hot pink ribbon around your Christmas tree will give your home a fun Barbie feel. You can choose to make it look a bit more elevated by adding other hot pink decorations, like these fake leaves pictured here. Or you can go the more playful route and add on Barbie Christmas ornaments.Related Story: Weird Barbie's House Is the Best Home in BarbieAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below9Put Up Black and White BowsElena Nikonova//Getty ImagesIf youre going with a faux Christmas tree in a non-natural hue, like pink or white, add a level of modern sophistication with black and white ribbon bows. Bringing in a darker shade and a stark neutral helps balance out the unnatural color of the tree.10Decorate With Festive FlannelSantiago Urquijo//Getty ImagesGo with a more relaxed vibe this holiday season and choose ribbons that have a more casual pattern and less rigidity. The soft material of these plaid ribbon bows makes the tree feel less serious and more homeyperfect for a cabin Christmas.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below11Add Vibrant Pops of ColorClive Nichols//Getty ImagesWith baubles of all one shade, use ribbon to bring in bright pops of color. You can go monochromatic with the bows, like in this Christmas tree ribbon idea, or choose a color scheme to go by, like burgundy, navy, and ochre as a more elegant option, for example.12Lead the Eye UpwardsFancy/Veer/Corbis//Getty ImagesFor more visual interest on your Christmas tree, drape the ribbon from the top to the bottom to lead the eye along the centerpiece. This one also has large ribbon bows where the ribbon changes direction for an added burst of color.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below13String on Candy Cane Stripeschapin31//Getty ImagesIf you decorate your tree with candy canes for the holidays, then go ahead and play into the striped pattern with red and white ribbon. The red, complementary to the green of the tree, and the bright white combined will really make the striped decorations pop out.14Cover the Tree With Wide RibbonClearphoto//Getty ImagesGo extra wide with your Christmas tree ribbon idea and essentially cover half of the tree with it. Youll create a very unique look this year, and itll lower the amount of ornaments youd normally put on if youre simply not up for that.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below15Leave the Tails LongAnastasiia Krivenok//Getty ImagesLet the tails hang low on your ribbon bows this holiday season. Theyll add a nice layering element to your Christmas tree as they snake between the branches, and theyre very on trend right now.16Mix Ribbon Materialssot//Getty ImagesNot only could you zig-zag two ribbons around the tree, but you could choose ribbons of different materials for unique layering. The deep red and silky white make for an elegant Christmas tree ribbon idea.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below17Make Ornaments Look CohesiveGetty ImagesIf you're like most families, your Christmas tree ornaments consist of a random assortment that you've collected over the decades. To make your tree look a little more intentional, hang each ornament with the same colored ribbon. 18Fill Empty SpaceGetty ImagesNo matter how many ornaments you have, there are probably still empty gaps that need to be filled. Tie bows onto the empty branches for cute accents that won't make your tree look crowded. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below19Forego Tinsel Getty ImagesDon't want to deal with messy tinsel? Use very thin strips of ribbon instead! You'll have more color options to choose from, and it'll be much easier to clean up come January. 20Tie the Color Palette TogetherGetty ImagesDecorating with several different hues? Find a patterned ribbon that combines all of them to bring the look together. The bright red, burgundy, and cream plaid ribbon that's used as a garland on this tree is a polished-looking finishing touch.

Moving can be stressful, especially if your current home has been sitting on the market for too long and you're worried that you may have to sell at a loss. The current market conditions present unique challenges that can heighten these concerns. Certain cities and towns in the U.S. have struggling seller's markets right now due to factors like population size, median income, and the number of available properties. To see where these areas are mainly concentrated across the country, Premier Online Marketing conducted a recent analysis using Realtor.com's "for sale" data from over 900 metropolitan areas. They reported on the median days homes remain on the market and the median listing price for each location."A slower pace enables a more measured approach, allowing buyers to find a property that truly aligns with their needs and budget," Michael Shaug, CEO and founder ofPremier Online Marketing, said. "However, this slower market can also come with drawbacks. A sluggish pace might indicate a lack of job opportunities or desirable amenities in the area, potentially hindering future resale value." Below, we've broken down the top ten U.S. metropolitan areas where it's the hardest to sell a home right now. (You'll find that two states stand out in particular.)Related StoriesKey West, FloridaPeter Unger//Getty ImagesOf the cities on this list, the tourist destination Key West has the highest median number of days on the market at 105 days. Towns in Florida currently account for 36 percent of all locations that are struggling to sell properties. However, Key West is likely so high because they have a fairly high cost of living, which is reflected in the median home price of $1.27 million. In a town with a population of around 25,500, out of 1,346 home listings, only eight saw price increases while 224 experienced price reductions.Rockport, TexasJacob Boomsma//Getty ImagesThis coastal town comes at a close second with a median number of 104 days on the market. The average household income is 29 percent below the national average, and the median listing price comes in at $425,000. The analysis looked at 622 listings in Rockport, and 128 of those experienced price reductions. Related StoryPort Lavaca, Texas and Forrest City, Arkansaspeeterv//Getty ImagesPort Lavaca, TXPort Lavaca and Forrest City are tied for third in their median number of days on the market with 103, right under Rockport. From 2010 to 2020, Port Lavaca's population slowly shrunk and is now around 11,212 people, and their median property price is $353,725 (approximately $213 per square foot). Forrest City has a population of 12,490 but a much lower median property price at $139,250, or $83 per square foot. It is about 61 percent cheaper than Port Lavaca.Naples-Marco Island, FloridaBarry Winiker//Getty ImagesIn fourth place, you'll find Naples-Marco Island with a median listing period of 100 days. This metropolitan area has a population of around 375,760 people, and their average listing price is $749,999 with the median price per square foot approximately totaling $417. With over 5,600 listings analyzed on the market, 17.5 percent of them experienced price reductions in an attempt to sell quickly.Rio Grande City-Roma, Texas and Bay City, TexasLacrecia Robinson / 500px//Getty ImagesRio Grande City, TXAnother tie, the Rio Grande City-Roma metropolitan area and Bay City of Texas had a median listing time of 99 days to sell. Rio Grande City-Roma is about 44 percent cheaper than Bay City, with a median listing price of $230,000 out of the 98 available listings, or approximately $132.11 per square foot. Bay City has a median listing price of $325,000 out of 284 listings, which costs $190.50 per square foot. Rio Grande City has a population of about 15,311, Roma's population is about 11,554, and Bay City's comes in at about 17,561.Related StoryDeRidder, LouisianaThis small town with a population of just under 10,000 comes in second to last with a median listing period of 96 days. The average listing price is $259,900.Punta Gorda, Florida and Sweetwater, TexasWiltser//Getty ImagesPunta Gorda, FLRounding out the final ten metropolitan areas are Punta Gorda, Florida, and Sweetwater, Texas, both tied for median days on the market at 95. Sweetwater is much cheaper than Punta Gorda when looking at the median listing price, coming in at $174,450 and Sweetwater with $397,000. The Florida city has a population of about 20,227 people, and the Texas town has 10,285.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Whether youre on the hunt for new artwork for your bedroom or eager to find the most unique piece to gift your art enthusiast friendyou can never go wrong with shopping on Etsy. While the online marketplace has a wealth of handmade, customizable items to shop from, their art selection cant be beaten.Etsy can be extremely affordable. Whether you are an emerging collector, an art enthusiast, or someone looking to invest in artwork to enhance the personality and character of your space, Etsy is a great choice, says Terri Henderson, Baltimore Beat Arts and Culture editor and independent art curator. The vast array of choices fits nearly any design dilemma you could haveand it's unlikely you'll encounter the same piece in someone else's home. They offer a diverse range of original works and prints that would make valuable additions to any collection at various price points. We asked serious art collectors and interior designers where they score hidden gems on Etsy, and their responses have us immediately wanting to fill our carts and plan our next living room redo. Featuring everything from abstract and botanical paintings to portraits and handmade prints, here are some of the best places to buy art on Etsy.More home essentials to shop:

Glow Images//Getty ImagesEvery item on this page was hand-picked by a House Beautiful editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.Completing home repairs, giving your walls a fresh coat of paint, and deep-cleaning every single room in your house may seem counterintuitive if youre getting ready to move out and dont truly get to enjoy all the fruits of your labor. But the real reward comes when you start receiving full-price offers on your for-sale homeor, better yet, your listing sets off a bidding war between interested buyers and sells over the asking price.Right now, housing experts say that low levels of housing inventory are helping sellers keep an upper hand in the real estate market. But markets vary by city, and even if youre looking to list a home in an area thats considered a sellers market, getting your home in tip-top shape before the For Sale sign is planted in your front yard can help you sell your home quicker and for a higher dollar amount. Here's our checklist of 16 things to do before you list your home for sale, according to real estate experts.Related Stories1. Take a Temperature Check of Your Local Market Check the market to see if there are a lot of active home listings or if homes are getting snapped up soon after they list, says real estate broker Bret Weinstein, CEO and founder of Guide Real Estate in Denver.If homes are moving quickly, it may signal a strong market where you can be more aggressive with pricing, Weinstein says. If not, a competitive price might be necessary to attract offers.Youll work with your agent to conduct a comparative market analysis and watch for changes in nearby listings to stay ahead of trends, he says. It may take you a couple of months to completely prep your home for sale, and the market can experience shifts even during that short period of time. For instance, if interest rates drop, more buyers may jump off the sidelines, bumping up demand and potentially your list price.Related Story2. Hire a Listing AgentA knowledgeable, experienced agent can help handle every aspect of your sale, says Cindy Raney, Global Luxury Property Specialist and founder of Cindy Raney & Team in Fairfield County, Connecticut.Choose an agent who has a strong reputation and local market expertise, she says. Look for one who can provide a comprehensive marketing strategy and has a network to attract serious buyers. Ahead of listing, interview a few agents to find one thats the best fit for your home sale. How much do you think I should list my home for? is the question thats front of mind for most buyers. But its also smart to ask agents about how theyll market your property, ask about commissions, and inquire about what costs theyll pick upsome may be willing to pay for staging or work with photographers that also get video or drone footage for your listing.3. Get a Pre-Inspection of Your HomeSasinT Gallery//Getty ImagesTypically, when you go under contract, the buyers will have a home inspection completed and they may ask you to make repairs that are needed or extend a credit so they can have the fixes completed. If an inspection reveals any big-time repairs, buyers could walk away from the deal and be able to keep their earnest money. This spells trouble for sellers: If your home falls out of contract and hits the market again, it could be a deterrent for future buyers who wonder what kind of problems are lurking. Enter the pre-inspection.Many home sellers don't think about taking this extra step, and some are afraid it may bring up unknowns that they will have to disclose on the sellers disclosure, says Rebecca Donatelli, a Cleveland, Ohiobased Realtor at Sothebys International Realty. For instance, a pre-inspection could reveal that you have a water heater leak and you complete mold remediationyoull need to reveal that on a sellers disclosure. Still, pre-inspections are a good thing, Donatelli says, because they eliminate lots of time and contingencies moving forward. If the inspection report provided is detailed enough, many home buyers may waive their inspection because they already have one, she says.4. Order a Preliminary Title Report When your home goes under contract, youll want smooth sailing to the closing table. Akin to getting a pre-inspection, you can also spend about $200 for a preliminary title report, says Nick Wemyss, a Los Altos, Californiabased real estate specialist at Intero Real Estate Services. This is an optional step for sellers, but reports can uncover any potential title issues that could slow or derail a salethings like liens or easements. If something comes up, youll have time to resolve problems before you list.Related Story5. Improve Curb AppealEnhancing curb appeal can make the home feel more inviting and increase its attractiveness as soon as potential buyers arrive, setting a positive tone before they step inside, Raney says. In fact, curb appeal can help your home sell for 7 percent more, according to a real estate study from the University of Texas at Arlington. Updating your landscaping, adding outdoor lighting, doing paint touchups on the exterior of your home, and power-washing walkways are all ways to up your curb appeal, Raney says. 6. Depersonalize Your SpaceAsiaVision//Getty ImagesThings like personal photos and your favorite sports teams memorabilia can be distracting and make it harder for buyers to imagine the home as their own. A neutral space encourages a sense of belonging for any potential buyers, says Weinstein. His tip: Replace personal photos with simple artwork or mirrors that reflect light, helping to create a more spacious feel.7. Declutter Your Home Not only does decluttering your space cut down on the amount of stuff you have to haul with you when you move out, but it also can help your home look larger and more inviting to potential buyers. After youve depersonalized, you can then start removing excess furniture, furnishings, and knickknacks, says Alexandra Gupta, associate broker at The Corcoran Group in Brooklyn, New York. If you dont have the budget for a stager, she recommends investing in a few key pieces like neutral-colored throw pillows or a clean, modern rug to help set your listing apart.Related Story8. Strategize With Your Listing Agent on Updates Ask your real estate agent for recommendations on updates and upgrades that could boost your homes market appeal and increase the sale price, says Laura Heigl, an Indiana-based real estate broker with Century 21 Scheetz and Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate.Its important to detach emotionally from the process and allow professionals to work their magic, Heigl says. The goal is to appeal to the largest number of buyers possible. As a general rule, avoid dollar-for-dollar spending on improvements, she says. For example, $5,000 spent on painting should yield more than $5,000 in sale value.Starting several months before listing will give you time to collect bids and hire contractors, Heigl says. (Bonus: Your real estate agent likely has strong referrals). Some upgrades might include repainting cabinets instead of replacing them or updating the cabinet pulls, recaulking grout in tiled areas, and having carpets professionally cleaned.If youre working with a stager (more on that below) make sure they have experience in your market and prioritize cost-effective, value-boosting updates, Heigl says.Generally speaking, though, cosmetic improvements that maximize value often include replacing, updating, or refinishing kitchen and bathroom finishes and flooring, says Broker Tate Kelly of Coldwell Banker Warburg. New, neutral, and relatively high-quality finishes, even if they are minor changes, can make a huge difference when appealing to a prospective buyer, he says. These small improvements make the home look newer than it might actually be, and buyers notice these sorts of details, which leads them to think the home is in mint condition and well-maintained. Related Story9. Do a 'Smell Test' When you live in a home day after day for many years, certain smells don't stand out as much to you, Donatelli says. But to a potential home buyer, if the smell is off-putting, that could be enough for them to walk away, she says. Have a third-party, unbiased person like your real estate agent come in and give their opinion. Fresh paint, removing old carpets, airing out the property, and setting up an air purifier can all help neutralize odors, she says. But avoid lighting candles during the showings because it's a fire hazard, Donatelli says. 10. Fix Scuff MarksTake a Magic Eraser throughout the entire house to get rid of scuff marks, Donatelli recommends.While repainting is a great idea for a refresh or to neutralize a home, it's not always necessary, she says. A melamine foam sponge like a Magic Eraser will do wonders for scratch marks and scuffs, and you can buy a pack for under $10.11. Give Your Home a Fresh Paint Job Fancy/Veer/Corbis//Getty ImagesIf you do decide to paint, the general rule is to opt for neutral wall colors that will help buyers envision making the house their own, says Michele Molitor, managing broker with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate 43 North. You may want to go this route if you have any of these paint colors that experts say devalue your home.Touring model homes can provide inspiration for current trends and color schemes, she says.Related Story12. Stage Your HomeStaging your home creates an inviting, aspirational look, allowing potential buyers to envision themselves in the space rather than being distracted by personal belongings or clutter, Weinstein says. A professional stager knows how to highlight a homes best features and create a layout that makes rooms look bigger and more functional, he says. The staged spaces that have the highest influence on homebuyers include the living room, primary bedroom, and kitchen, according to research from the National Association of Realtors. Work with a stager to decide what items to keep, remove, or rearrange. Aim for a balance between lived-in and showroom, Weinstein says. 13. Get Your Home Ready for Photos Deep-clean right before photos, including your windows, Weinstein says. Replace all lighting with higher-watt bulbs with a consistent hue, and schedule interior photos either mid-morning or early afternoon to take advantage of the best light.Cleanliness in photos reflects the care and upkeep of the home, while bright, well-lit spaces look more inviting and spacious, he says. Consistent lighting also helps create a cohesive look in every room. Related Story14. Create a Home Maintenance BookA well-documented history of home maintenance and upgrades gives potential buyers some extra confidence in the care and condition of your home, says Ashley DeHart, a realtor in Clovis, California. It can also streamline the buying process by answering questions buyers might have about the home's past.Gather all receipts, warranties, and manuals for appliances and systems. Include a timeline of significant renovations or repairs, she recommends. This book can be presented during showings.15. Gather Your HOA DocumentsIf you live in a neighborhood that's governed by a homeowners association, start gathering the documents as you'll likely need to provide the buyers with copies of covenants and a recent financial statement. While you don't need to have all of these in hand by the time you list your house, it's a good idea to get the ball rolling in case you need to request them from a management company. Related Story16. Determine the Appropriate List PricePricing the home correctly is key to attracting serious buyers and avoiding prolonged time on the market, Weinstein says. A competitive price generates immediate interest and ultimately maximizes the sellers return. If you price your home too high, you may have to do price cuts and savvy buyers will look at the number of days your home has been on the market to negotiate lower offers.Rely on a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) and your agents local knowledge to determine a strategic price, Weinstein says. Homes priced correctly from the start often see the highest buyer engagement and avoid the pitfalls of multiple price reductions, he says.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Perched on a hilltop in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, the 2024 Whole Home isn't just a pretty faceit's an eco-savvy sanctuary with leafy nature-preserve views. The 4,000-square-foot contemporary mountain retreat is nestled within a conservation-focused community called Sprout on a private preserve in Hendersonville, North Carolina. Inside, environmentally friendly systems and design elements work to conserve energy throughout. And when you look beyond the house's energy-efficient status and bucolic locale, you also find thoughtful decor and final flourishes that make the interiors feel alive. While many magazine-worthy rooms are more inspiring than attainable, our House Beautiful team took a different approach to developing this home's look and feel. By partnering with 11 talented design teams from across the country, we've made every space shoppable, so you can get the building blocks of the overall sense of laid-back luxury delivered right to your doorstep. Much of the room's decorative accents (from plant stands to mirrors) and furniture (including accent chairs and dining tables) was sourced from Wayfair Professional, which provides design professionals access to an unrivaled selection of items. With exclusive Pro Pricing - offering up to 15% off plus an additional 10% off across the Wayfair network of specialty brands AllModern, Joss & Main, and Birch Lane - as well as 360-degree support from a dedicated team and access to luxury brand Perigold. Read on to see what the designers handpicked for their respective rooms. Lower PatioCofounders of the Curated Nest Erin Coren and Lina Galvo sought inspiration from some far-flung destinations for the home's three separate patios. For the lower one, the team channeled the old-world aesthetic of Italy's Lake Como, combining raffia-wrapped chairs, striped chaise longues, and a row of stone pedestals crafted from natural travertine as plant stands to create the overall effect. The Met x Eichholtz Plant Stand in BeigeSHOP AT WAYFAIR PROFESSIONALUpper PatioFor the upper patio, the Curated Nest design team employed rich layers of rugs and pillows to evoke the souks of Morocco. A pair of daybed swings with custom bench covers anchor the seating area, while a handcrafted Meranti wood-and-bone framed mirror rounds out the look. A low-slung lounger and a brown vegan-leather pouf featuring a knife-edge finish provide additional seating. Bungalow Rose Vertical Modern & Contemporary Accent MirrorSHOP AT WAYFAIR PROFESSIONALClassic Home Ezekiel Vegan Leather PoufSHOP AT WAYFAIR PROFESSIONALLiving-Dining RoomIn the open-concept living-dining room, which features 22-foot ceilings, designer Dane Austin aimed for a mix of furnishings that feels collected over time"a mix of old and new, masculine and feminine, with some custom-made and some flea-market finds," he says. Nesting tableswith distressed metal bases and cleanlined marble topsstrike the perfect balance. In the dining area, an oval table with a sculptural pedestal base comfortably seats a crowd, courtesy of armchairs and a tufted settee. In the living area, the distressed look of a hand-planed tray-top end table with curvaceous legs fits right in with the curated array of vintage and modern furnishings. The coffee table, made from stainless steel and available in three polished finishes, is topped with black tempered glass, giving it a sleek two-tone design. It provides a contemporary contrast to some of the room's more traditional silhouettes. Everly Quinn Marble Top Nesting TablesSHOP AT WAYFAIR PROFESSIONALJoss & Main Adara Oval Dining TableSHOP AT WAYFAIR PROFESSIONALOrren Ellis Jasonville Glass Top Coffee TableSHOP AT WAYFAIR PROFESSIONALWoodbridge Furniture Tray Top End Table with StorageSHOP AT WAYFAIR PROFESSIONALStudio Designer Anita Yokota devised her soothing "recovery room" in calming shades of blue. To provide some storage, she included an antique-blue sideboard, which features built-in adjustable shelves and a concentric three-dimensional design. A rounded armchair with a storage ottoman transforms a corner of the room into a space to lounge or read. The light gray linen fabric keeps everything feeling breezy. Bungalow Rose Sideboard With Circular Groove Design And Round Metal HandlesSHOP AT WAYFAIR PROFESSIONALLatitude Run Danieal Upholstered Barrel Chair with OttomanSHOP AT WAYFAIR PROFESSIONALKitchenIn the kitchen, designer Kelsey McGregor of Kelsey Leigh Design Co. prioritized organic finishes and textures. A high-quality granite mortar and pestle match the natural theme. The hardworking kitchen tool also looks striking on the countertop when not in usethe perfect combination of form and function. Charlton Home Rodman Mortar and Pestle SetSHOP AT WAYFAIR PROFESSIONALPlayroomIn the playroom, Byron Risdon experimented with color and pattern, incorporating a palette of rich blues and yellows. Accessories like puzzle-piece bookends and a balloon-animal sculpture up the ante on the fun. Ivy Bronx Jakila Balloon Animal Dog Sculpture DecorSHOP AT WAYFAIR PROFESSIONALGarageThe Iron House Design team of Jim and Tanya Ryno transformed the garage into a multi-use space that includes a home gym. Decorative accessories that nod to the outdoorsy locationlike a pair of novelty canoe-oar paddleskeep the space feeling more like a considered room than a mere utilitarian annex. Dovecove Wood Novelty Canoe Oar Paddle Home Wall Decor SHOP AT WAYFAIR PROFESSIONALNot a Wayfair Professional member? Join for free and discover even more member benefits.

In life, you either have charm or you dont. But in a house, you can always add it. That was the task at hand for Ariel Okin with this young familys home. Even though it wasnt old by architectural standards, it had been a little unloved, she says of the center hall colonial, built in the early aughts in Oyster Bay, New York. The mandate was to channel the homeowners free-spirited sensibilities while maintaining the houses traditional bones. Its classic prep meets traveling bohemian, Okin says.Related StoriesThe house didnt need a complete overhaul, but we definitely did a cosmetic gut, she says. The designer brought in warm yet slightly unexpected hues: coral, plum, and marigold, often in varying tones, to create tension. She wasnt afraid of pattern, which was amazing and so fun, says Okin of her client. It also helped to layer in some unpredictable touches: A sitting room got a ceiling more lustrous than a mollusk shell, and an existing built-in bar was painted a lush purple. The glossy aubergine bar definitely tied into my clients love of jewel tones, says Okin. The finishes throughout are hard-wearing for a growing family with a rescue dog. (For example: The polypropylene rug in the breakfast nook looks like sisal but can be cleaned like vinyl.)Its classic prep meets traveling bohemian.Okin balanced the bolder choices with design elements worthy of The Official Preppy Handbook, layering in stripes, woven natural fibers, scallops, and plates as wall artdecidedly orthodox touches beloved by generations. In the family room, the stripes on the rug really anchor that space because it is so vast, Okin says. The final result is exactly what the homeowner originally conjured. Its a traditional home, but it also has a curated assortment of things from all over the globe, Okin says. Its warm and collected and lived in. A real charmer.Family Room Donna DotanThe homeowners wanted it to be formal but not fussythey wanted to be able to entertain but have it feel kid friendly and accessible, Okin says. Draperies: Schumacher linen. Sofa: Ferrell Mittman. Wall plates: Tory Burch. Baskets: Pottery Barn (planter), Mainly Baskets (wood).Donna DotanIt was existing, but we updated it with fresh lacquer in a yummy plum hue, Okin says. Paint: Brinjal, Farrow & Ball. Lamp: Penny Morrison. Table: Wildwood. Chair: Hollywood at Home.Sitting RoomDonna DotanI wanted it to feel really cozy and enveloping in here, Okin says. Paint: Skylight (ceiling), Beverly (trim), Farrow & Ball. Wallcovering: Gregorius Pineo. Ottoman: Williams Sonoma. Rug: custom. Living RoomDonna DotanThe game table reminded Okin of her client: It was a little bit whimsical but still tailored. Table: Fabulous Things Ltd. Wallcovering: Rose Tarlow. Chairs: The Antique and Artisan Gallery. KitchenDonna DotanFittingly, the kitchen island is painted in Farrow & Ball Breakfast Room Green. Pendant: Hudson Valley Lighting. Countertops: ABC Stone. Counter stools: Serena & Lily.Donna DotanAn all-purpose spot in a high-traffic area. Desk: Crate & Barrel. Chair: Nickey Kehoe. Lamp: Oka x Cabana.Breakfast NookDonna DotanThe existing paneling was kept, since it lends nice texture to the space. Chandelier: Visual Comfort & Co. Drapery: Rose Tarlow. Table: Wayfair Professional. Chairs: O&G Studio.Dining RoomDonna Dotan The intention was a space that felt elegant yet organic, Okin says. Table: Leporello. Chairs: 1stDibs. Wallcovering: Cowtan & Tout. Pendant: The Urban Electric Co. Rug: Sisal Rugs Direct.Childs RoomDonna DotanWe wanted this space to feel polished, fresh, and fun, Okin says. Pendant: Arteriors. Wallcovering: Cowtan & Tout. Paint: Belvedere Blue (trim), Farrow & Ball. Glider: Serena & Lily. Guest Bedroom Donna DotanThe boho vibes were kept in small doses here, ensuring the mood remains serene. Chairs and bed: Serena & Lily. Wallcoverings: Schuyler Samperton (ceiling) and Madeaux (walls). OfficeDonna DotanThe study is the clients escape room, says Okin, and she wanted it to feel 100 percent her. Sofa: Serena & Lily, in Natasha Baradaran fabric. Poufs: Amazon. Sconces: Visual Comfort & Co.BackyardDonna DotanFollow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Every home in a storybook setting deserves equally enchanting interiors. So when a young family moved into a house nestled on an idyllic wooded lot spanning more than four acres in Williams Creek, Indiana, they knew it needed a renovation. It felt like a time warp, says interior designer Amy Knerr, who was brought on to give the Georgian-style residence a welcoming yet sophisticated upgrade.Previously remodeled in 1987, the property suffered from a nonsensical layout, oversize scale, and cosmetic craziness marked by layers of heavy upholstery, explains Knerr, who founded Of Place Studio. The worst offender: a terra-cotta kitchen with brownish granite and one long, wide island. Id never seen anything so big, honestly, Knerr says. Related StoryTo maximize flow without losing prep space, Knerr installed a double island in the kitchen. On the same floor, the couples request for a main level primary bedroom called for transforming a screened-in porch and building a small addition. Nearby, a portion of the massive home office was carved out to create a sizable primary bath. Architectural details throughout nod to the original era of the venerable 1936 home. In the living room, hand-hewn wood beams and a variety of seating ensure that what once felt like a chilly, high-ceilinged banquet hall is now a cozy hub for family game nights and gatherings with friends.From there, Knerr selected natural materials to drive the muted color palette in the 7,500-square-foot, five-bedroom, house. Custom walnut kitchen cabinets and white oak vanities have a quiet warmth; Calacatta marble counters add an element of drama. Natural stone is a living art piece in your home, so its really special when you find and use beautiful ones, she says. The kids rooms are drenched in soothing huesa mellow purple, a soft bluethat balance excitement and enduring appeal.A mix of new, vintage, and heirloom pieces fill the house. Exceptional lighting, like the Roman and Williams pendant in the breakfast nook, ties it all together. You can sort of get away with other more budget-friendly items if you invest in lighting, Knerr says. It makes all the difference. And its the perfect way to give each room its happy ending. Living RoomNicole FranzenAnchored by an Indiana limestone mantel, the multipurpose space exudes comfort. Credenza and dining chairs: Lawson- Fenning. Curtains: Dedar. Game table: Nickey Kehoe. Rug: Armadillo. Lamp: Victoria Morris. Wall art: McKenzie Dove.DenNicole FranzenThe office doubles as a serene hangout where the vinyl record collection is kept. Sofa: custom, Community MFG. Chairs and side table: Four Hands. Lamp: Visual Comfort & Co. Coffee table and rug: vintage. KitchenNicole FranzenThe double islands maximize prep space. Cabinetry, hardware, and pendants (white): Devol. Stools: Black Creek Mercantile & Trading Co. Faucet: Brizo. Lamp: Dumais Made. Backsplash, counters: Calacatta marble.Breakfast NookNicole FranzenThe custom banquette, upholstered in Perennials fabric, is an intimate spot in a big kitchen, says designer Amy Knerr. Pendant: Roman and Williams. Paint: White Dove, Benjamin Moore. Table and chairs: vintage.Dining RoomNicole FranzenWe wanted this space to feel like a big, inviting hug, says Knerr. An heirloom hutch from the clients mother was refinished for the space. Chandelier: The Urban Electric Co. Wallcovering: Phillip Jeffries. Paint: Iron Ore, Sherwin-Williams. Chairs: Crate & Barrel, in Pierre Frey fabric. Curtains: Brook Perdigon Textiles. Rug: Armadillo.Primary BedroomNicole FranzenThe boucl bedcover and shams from Principals Daughter encourage endless relaxation. Nightstands: Crate & Barrel. Sconces: Lumfardo. Rug: Armadillo. Side table: Hti Home. Lamp: Zara Home. Bunk RoomNicole FranzenWe needed a space for [the kids] friends to come by and have the ultimate sleepover, Knerr says. Paint: Summer Shower, Benjamin Moore. Sconces: Schoolhouse. Bedding: Garnet Hill. Rug: Serena & Lily. Daughters BedroomNicole FranzenA built-in bed and integrated storage, painted in Benjamin Moore Muskoka Dusk, creates space for play in a tiny room. Bedding: Parachute. Sconce: Visual Comfort & Co. Hardware: Devol. Rug: Crate & Barrel. Primary BathroomNicole FranzenNicole FranzenHoned limestone flooring from Zia Tile is practical but not clinical. Bathtub: Kohler. Fixtures: Brizo. Sconces: The Urban Electric Co. Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Sometimes it really is what's inside that counts. Because while there's no doubt the seventh annual Whole Homenestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, between artsy Asheville and picturesque Hendersonvillehas curb appeal, it's the interior that truly impresses.Open any of the 4,000-square-foot contemporary's many closets and you'll find an organizational masterpiece just as stunning as the mountain views on any of the vacation home's three outdoor patios. In the primary bedroom, for example, custom built-ins from The Container Store's exclusive Preston collection elevate the functionality and the feel in the primary bedroom's spacious walk-in closet, while the brand's newly launched Decor+ by Elfa line transforms the home's other closets into true works of art.And this is not all just aspirational. You, too, can bring that aesthetically delightful organization home. With a plethora of storage solutions, The Container Store has the right offerings to transform any space from the pantry to the playroom, plus free design services in your home or at your local store and professional installers to bring your vision to lifewithout the stress that comes with going the DIY route. Read on for the details.Primary ClosetTo ensure guests to the house always remain in vacation mode, ID.ology designer Jill Jones equipped the massive walk-in closet in the Whole Home's primary bedroom with plenty of hanging space for easy packing and unpackinggiving it the feeling of a hotel retreat. The custom built-ins from The Container Store's Preston collection feature two champagne-hued, fawn wardrobe units with aluminum framed glass doors in a matte gold finish that put favorite pieces on display.Dimmable European LED lighting lends the space a chic, boutique feel that's enhanced by the five-piece Shaker-style cabinetry with clear-glass panels in a refined fawn finish, ideal for highlighting handbags and other accessories. Artisan Rattan Cane Bins bring style and concealed storage for accessories not used everyday. And while the Harmony wall organizerfinished in matte gold with winter-white man-made leatherhas enough hooks to show off all manner of jewelry and scarves, a tilt-out hamper with built-in laundry bags ensures that particular chore stays out of both sight and mind.Bedrooms & HallwaysThe Whole Home designers put The Container Store's new Dcor+ by Elfa custom-space line to work in the guest bedrooms and hallway closets. In both the game closet and rooms that invite visitors to stay a while, the delight is in the details. These include dimmable LED lighting, solid birch veneers and trim in a variety of finishes, 20-inch deep drawers that open fully and close softly, plus sophisticated hardware in shades of brass and brushed silver. GarageGarages generally get a bad rap as cluttered landing spots for everything from seasonal decor to outdoor gear. But with the help of the new Garage+ by Elfa system from The Container Store, Iron House Design team Jim and Tanya Ryno dreamed up a space that prioritizes both form and function. Crafted with powder-coated steel in a platinum finish, the open shelving, full-extension drawers, and locking metal cabinets (on easy-to-pull-out casters) combine with pegboards for aesthetically pleasing storage that keeps gardening tools, outdoor equipment, and other essentials both close at hand and out of the way. A heavy-duty work surface and LED lighting make it easy to tackle almost any project at any time.

While a ceiling is a fundamental component of any building, most are modest and rather forgettable. However, an architecturally interesting ceiling design, like a vaulted ceiling, can significantly enhance a room's design, contributing to an airy and luxurious atmosphere. Vaulted ceilings are among the most debated design features: some interior designers celebrate their grand, lofty aesthetics, while critics call them outdated and inefficient, citing their potential for higher energy costs and difficulty in heating during colder months. Despite these criticisms, vaulted ceilings have endured throughout history, suggesting their continued relevance in architecture. If you've ever wondered, What is a vaulted ceiling? our guide is here to explain all. We tapped three interior designers to break down the essential details of these dramatic home features, including their pros and cons. Here's everything you need to know about vaulted ceilings.Related StoriesWhat Are Vaulted Ceilings?Zach DeSartIn architectural terms, a vaulted ceiling is a self-supporting arch above walls and beneath a roof. Different styles of vaults include barrel, groin, rib, and fan.Some of the first vaulted ceilings can be traced back to a Neolithic village in Crete, built roughly seven thousand years ago. Since then, they've been found around the world across ages, perhaps most notably in Gothic cathedrals and domed spaces like the Pantheon in Rome. Today, vaulted ceilings are commonly found in contemporary homes. A vaulted ceiling extends upward from the walls to a center, creating a volume of space overhead, says Jade Joyner, cofounder and principal designer of studio Metal + Petal in Athens, Georgia. They extend a typical flat ceiling to take advantage of unused roof structure space. Not all vaulted ceilings are archedsome may follow the roofline in a more triangular form. This style of vaulted ceiling is known as a cathedral ceiling. Cathedral ceilings normally mirror the roof structure and have sides that slope and meet at a ridge in the center, says Maggie Cruz of Miami-based Maggie Cruz Design + Home. Today most people use the terms cathedral and vaulted interchangeably.Related StoryWhat Spaces Are Vaulted Ceilings Best For?Brian BiederVaults can be styled in a number of ways to match the look of your home, whether thats modern, rustic, or industrial. The softness of an arched ceiling can add the perfect touch for a modern structure, says Maggie Griffin, who runs her eponymous firm in Atlanta and Gainesville, Florida. A vaulted ceiling is a wonderful excuse to incorporate reclaimed beams or industrial cable supports to round out your look, too.As for specific rooms, they can really be used anywhere your home structurally allows, from bedrooms to bathroomsbut you'll most commonly find them in great rooms and in the living-dining rooms of open-concept homes.Related StoryPros of Vaulted CeilingsThey offer a sense of grandeur and spaciousness. Opening up a ceiling often creates a sense of airinessyou are, after all, providing a lot more overhead space in a room!They allow for bright, natural light. With all that extra height comes extra space for tall windows or skylights, both of which contribute to a rooms brightness.They occupy otherwise wasted attic space. If you have a ceiling that can be opened up, you can make practical design use of dead space through a vaulted ceiling. Theyre a dramatic design feature. Theyre certainly something to look at in a room, and they can be customized to fit your houses aesthetic. Vaulted ceilings are particularly popular in both rustic-style spaces as well as midcentury-modern ones.Related StoryCons of Vaulted Ceilings They waste a lot of energy. Homeowners should consider the fact that higher ceilings do lead to higher energy bills, as theres more space to heat or cool, says Ashley Moore, founder and principal designer at Moore House Interiors in Tomball, Texas.Theyre harder to maintain than normal ceilings. Need to change a lightbulb in your vaulted ceilings recessed lighting or dust an exposed beam? Better get an extra-tall ladder.Its difficult to retrofit a space to include them. From an engineering standpoint, youll need to make sure your roof structure supports a vault, says Cruz. Special trusses that come engineered for a vaulted space are required. If you dont have the right roof or ceiling structure, youll either have to pay up to install it, or youll have to forgo the vaulted ceiling entirely. Its much, much easier to install a vaulted ceiling in a new build when you can plan for it from the get-go.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

There is a long checklist to get through when you're preparing to sell your home. You have to get your property appraised, make any necessary repairs, and spruce up your curb appeal to make the best first impression. Some homeowners even consider making upgrades ahead of listing their properties, in hopes that will boost the sale price considerably. But before you renovate your home to impress potential buyers, we have a warning. Certain design choices can actually hurt your home's value and the chances of a speedy sale. Kitchens are highly personal, and every buyer has their own preferences and vision of the space, says Zillow's trend expert, Amanda Pendelton. In general, Zillow research finds kitchen renovations deliver some of the worst returns on investmentabout $0.50 on the dollar, she explains. Some buyers are home chefs and entertainers, and theyll want all the bells and whistles, while other buyers may prefer ordering takeout and dont want to pay for that top-of-the-line steam oven you just installed.Of course, resale value isn't the end-all-be-all of decision-making factors. If you love sunshine yellow cabinets (and you're going to be using them for years to come), go ahead and paint them! But if you're renovating to sell, or thinking about future property and resale value, these are the design choices you'll want to skip. Related StoriesSilver HardwareSilver may have made a comeback this last year in the world of fashion and jewelry, but in interiors, it's still the least desirable hardware finish. Zillow research finds listings with satin nickel hardware or fixtures get 34 percent fewer saves per day and 36 percent fewer shares per day on Zillow. However, chrome finishes fare better in the housing market. Homes with chrome hardware or fixtures only get 19 percent fewer saves per day and 18 percent fewer shares per day. Oak Cabinetschandlerphoto//Getty ImagesWood cabinets are divisive: Some are beloved, while others are despised, and it all depends on the finish of the wood. While white oak, ash, and paler tones are popular, especially in Scandinavian design, orange-hued oak doesn't fare as well, and often seen as dated. Homes with oak cabinets get 9 percent fewer saves per day and 10 percent fewer shares per day on Zillowand sell for 0.8 Onyx StoneA yellowish, orange stone, often with brown and white veining, onyx is a controversial countertop and backsplash choice. It's bold, but it's not as durable or functional as quartzite or granite, which makes potential buyers wary. For-sale listings with onyx get 22 percent fewer saves per day and 25 percent fewer shares per day than similar homes.Yellow Paint Elliott Kaufman//Getty ImagesBold, colorful kitchens may be showstopping from an interior design perspective, but personality-forward design can scare potential buyers off. Selecting the wrong paint colors could cost you when its time to sell. We recommend neutrals like white, navy, and even warmer tones like brown and beige to boost your kitchen's universal appeal. Zillows research finds homes with a bright yellow kitchen command offers that are $2,125 less than expected on a typical U.S. home. Tile or Laminate CountertopsLaminate countertops are a common, budget-friendly renovation option, but potential buyers will take the choice as the homeowners cutting corners. Tile counters are great, and we're partial to the aesthetic, but they are notoriously difficult to clean and maintain over time. Home shoppers arent willing to pay a premium for either of these materials. Homes with laminate countertops can sell for 1.1% less than expected, and buyers pay 1% less for homes with tile countertops, according to Zillow research. Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Jump to:Architecture in the 20th century was defined by a single dominant style: modernism. This design movement transformed the built environment by moving away from ornate, historical styles and embracing simplicity and functionality. In fact, the entire movement can be summed up by the adage form follows function.Modern architecture has given rise to some of the world's most distinctiveand sometimes polarizinglandmarks, from iconic skyscrapers to intimate residences. With insights from industry professionals, let's take a closer look at the enduring influence and significance of modernism architecture.Related StoriesWhat Is Modern Architecture?Modern (or modernist) architecture is the preeminent design movement of the 20th century in the Western world. It demonstrates a radical shift from historical architectural styles in favor of functional minimalism, using materials like steel, glass, and concrete. Its popularity peaked between the 1930s and 1970s, between the design movements of Art Deco and postmodernism. However, the roots and influence of modern architecture extend well beyond these dates. Modernism also encompasses quite a few subgenres of architecture, among them Bauhaus, International Style, and Brutalism.Related StoryWhat Is the History of Modern Architecture?Though modern architecture is a 20th-century movement, its roots can be traced back to the late 19th century, specifically to American architect Louis Sullivan. In an 1896 essay about skyscrapers, he coined the phrase form follows function, which eventually became the rallying cry of modernist architects everywhere. Modern architecture is rooted in the principle that the design of a building should prioritize the experience of those inhabiting it, focusing on simplicity, practicality, and minimal ornament, says architect and interior designer Lisa Welch.The rise of modern architecture was heavily influenced by the Industrial Revolution, which introduced new materials and technologies that allowed for innovative construction methods. Previously, the Victorian period of architecture of the late 1800s and early 1900s was dark, compartmentalized, and heavily ornamented, says architect Diana Melichar. The modern style of architecture embraced technology and the capabilities of the Industrial Revolution to provide a simpler architecture, devoid of costly detailing, and provided lots of light and air.European architects Le Corbusier, Walter Gropius, and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe were among the pioneers of modernism; they brought the movement to the United States as they fled World War II. Additionally, American architects, including Philip Johnson and Frank Lloyd Wright, championed modern architecture at home.Related StoryWhat Are the Key Characteristics of Modern Architecture?Le Corbusier codified modern architecture in his manifesto Five Points of Architecture. Those five points encompass the following: Pilotis, or concrete pillars that lift a building off the ground to provide circulation beneath itFree design of the floor plan, or an open floor planFree design of the faade, or reduced structural constraints in exterior wallsHorizontal windowsRoof gardensWhile other architects took liberty with these points, they were largely influenced by them. In addition to those mentioned in Le Corbusier's design credo, modernist architecture generally includes the features listed below.Minimal Ornamentation In modern architecture, ornamentation is minimized or eliminated, as are any references to traditional styles of architecture. This is a new design movement that represents the new, industrial world.New MaterialsModern architecture prioritizes industrial materials like steel, concrete, and glass. While these materials provided advanced structural capabilities, they were also considered beautiful.Clean, Horizontal Lines and Open Floor PlansNew materials and engineering techniques allowed modernist architects to employ clean, horizontal lines throughout their open-plan spaces.Connection With NatureGlass exterior walls allow for a great connection between inside and outdoor spaces, says Melichar. Hence, this style became quite popular in California and other locations where homes were being built after World War II. Related StoryHow Is Modern Architecture Different From Contemporary Architecture? When discussing architectural movements, it's important to distinguish between modern and contemporary, as these terms are not interchangeable. Modern architecture refers specifically to the 20th-century design movement and isn't related to current trends. Meanwhile, the term contemporary describes what is currently happening in architecture and design, reflecting present-day innovations and styles.Related StoryFamous Modern Buildings Around the WorldBauhaus Dessau, Dessau, GermanyVanni Archive//Getty ImagesMany of the leading modernist architects lectured at the Bauhaus school, housed in this building designed by Walter Gropius.Villa Savoye, Poissy, FranceThierry PERRIN//Getty ImagesVilla Savoye is widely regarded as a pure manifestation of Le Corbusiers vision for modernist architecture; all five points from his manifesto are exemplified here. The Glass House, New Canaan, Connecticutpicture alliance//Getty ImagesPhilip Johnsons Glass House is a striking example of minimalism, with expansive glass walls that bring nature directly into the living space. Melichar calls it a favorite, citing its humble simplicity and connection to nature.The Seagram Building, New York City, New YorkBarry Winiker//Getty ImagesThis iconic building, designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Philip Johnson, is an example of the International Style, used frequently in skyscraper design. Interestingly, the architects didn't only use steel in its constructionthey used bronze on its faade.Maison de Verre, Paris, FranceRaphael GAILLARDE//Getty ImagesThe Maison de Verre by Pierre Chareau showcases an innovative use of glass blocks and open, flexible spaces. As Welch notes, the residence highlights the dynamic relationship between architecture and natural light.Fallingwater, Mill Run, PennsylvaniaArchive Photos//Getty ImagesPerhaps Frank Lloyd Wright's most famous work, Fallingwater is an ode to modernism, between its clean, horizontal lines and deep connection to nature. It's built directly above a waterfall.Eames House, Los Angeles, CaliforniaMark Boster//Getty ImagesThe Eames House by Charles and Ray Eames, also known as Case Study House No. 8, comprises two glass-and-steel structures: one is a residence and the other is a studio. Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Every item on this page was hand-picked by a House Beautiful editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.When it comes to decorating for the holidays, your mantel is one of the most important features in your entire display. It's where your family gathers to open presents under the Christmas tree, and it's typically the perfect backdrop for holiday pictures. While stockings and garlands are classic decorations that will always look cozy and inviting, there's definitely more you can do when it comes to styling your fireplace. Updating your mantel can provide your home with an immediate design revamp. And the emerging seasonal trends from this year are highlighting both the appeal of timelessness and the allure of fresh styles. While it may feel daunting to move away from your usual holiday decor scheme, these gorgeous ideas from interior designers will help guide you in the right direction.Read on to see how to craft a stunning holiday mantelscape like a designer, ensuring a vibrant and exciting look year after year.Related StoriesOver-the-Top GreeneryJUSTIN L JORDANGreenery is a central theme in many holiday decorationsthe more coniferous tree branches you can use, the better. Designer Bethany Adams suggests embracing this element when decorating your mantelpiece, as layered branches are effortlessly attractive. The lush mantel displayed above is from her own home. She crafted this stunning holiday display using four floral foam cages, foraged greenery, and a selection of florals.To add some festive orange color, I added branches of live persimmons I purchased from Trader Joe's, but you could also use faux branches and use them year after year, Adams tells House Beautiful. Nestled between the branches (and with a fire extinguisher within reach!), I placed brass candlesticks of multiple heights from H&M Home with candles in varying, rich hues.If you keep the floral foam moist, this display can last you through the New Year. Faux Pomegranate Branch$54 at afloral.comTall Candlestick$18 at H&M2-Pack Glossy Taper Candles$6 at H&MFloral Foam Cages, Pack of 4$29 at AmazonMinimalist EleganceNicole Dianne PhotographySometimes, the best way to highlight specific architectural features in your home, like your mantel, is by going the minimalist route. This Christmas, we are going to be embracing a more minimalist, gentler, and yet very elegant approach to holiday styling, Ashley Macuga of Collected Interiors says. To create a warm, inviting atmosphere that counterbalances the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, Macuga suggests leaning into decor that feels more edited and scaled down. The designer lists softer hues like blush pinks and creams with hints of gold and Champagne to add a subtle sparkle. Rather than add on a huge garland, try touches of eucalyptus here and there (as long as your house is feline-free) with minimal wreaths and simple pillar candles or tea lights to add a calming warmth. This will create a more refined mantelscape that doesn't leave you feeling overwhelmed just by stepping into the room. Leaf Garland Embroidered Napkins, Set of 4$70 at Williams SonomaStacked Wood Trees$29 at West ElmBarga Taper Candleholders$129 at Pottery Barn18pcs Artificial Eucalyptus StemsNow 17% Off$12 $10 at AmazonA Touch of GrandeurBuff StricklandDesigner Bambi A'Lynn Bratton doesn't like holding back when it comes to decorating the mantel for the holidays. Add sparkle, brightness, and a sense of grandeur to make your fireplace feel truly luxurious. I love decorating a living room mantle with silver decor, candles, antique pink balls, and ribbon (silk, satin, and velvet are my favorite festive options), Bratton says. Or, if you'd rather something a bit more natural, bring elements of the outside in by layering noble fir, eucalyptus, cedar, and juniper branches on your mantel.10-Yard Velvet Ribbon Spool$8 at AmazonThe Holiday Aisle Silver Deer Statues, Set of 2$77 at WayfairTonal Blush Glass Boxed Ornaments. Set of 9$39 at West Elm6-Foot Jingle Bell Faux Garland$50 at Williams Sonoma Modern and MetallicMolly CulverA general rule of thumb for designer Meredith Owen when decorating mantels is taking into account the overall design style of the home. For example, having an ultra glamorous mantel in a home with a more rustic aesthetic would look out of place and awkward. In this particular home, she and her team went for a more modern garland using metallics mixed in with greenery to give an understated but elegant look, Owen says. They layered ribbons with berries, branches, and florals to bring in elements of nature, enhancing the design with bronze accents and lights that emit a soft glow. We kept this mantle design simple because of the more modern nature of this home, Owen adds.9-Foot Flocked Berkshire Spruce Garland$42 at WalmartDeluxe Faux Smoke Berry Branch in Dusty Plum$42 at afloral.comAlcott Hill Mini Christmas Tree String Lights With Brown Cord$54 at Wayfair3D Silver Glitter Star Christmas Tree Ornaments$47 at Crate & Barrel Holiday-Everyday BlendCourtesy of R. Higgins InteriorsA top tip from designer Roger Higgins of R. Higgins Interiors is to incorporate the holiday arrangements with the existing mantel decor. Though this will look different in each home, Higgins always uses fire-retardant materials to enhance the mantels. I love to combine faux and real elements together for a balanced look, he says. 6-Foot Faux Red Mini Berry Garland$149 at Crate & BarrelLarge Natural Pine Cones, Set of 20$24 at Amazon9-Foot Wood Beaded Burgundy Garland$10 at AmazonBalsam Hill Fraser Fir Foliage$139 at Balsam HillFollow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

It happens like clockwork: As soon as the holiday season kicks into high gearand the end of the year creeps closerwe become obsessed with what lies ahead. What's new? What's next? And what's in store for the year ahead? Well, if you want to bring that "new year, new you" mentality to your home decor come 2025, Zillow is here to help.The real-estate platform just released its 2025 home decor trend report, which predicts the fads that will be all the rage for the next 12 months. Electric vehicle charging ports, spa-like bathrooms, and homes with climate-resilient touches are poised to be big. However, one of the biggest trends is also the easiest to bring into your space.Related Story"Cozy homes are having a moment," says Amanda Pendleton, Zillows home trends expert. "In todays high-stress, uncertain world, people are looking for warmth and comfort at home." In fact, Zillow noticed that listings that mention "cozy" have increased by 35 percent since last year. But while some buyers are looking for the intimacy and comfort of a smaller space, Pendleton insists that coziness is a feeling, not a look. "Think about how you can engage all your senses in a space," she recommends. "Think about adding warm scents to your space through a diffuser or scented candles." Related StoryPendleton recommends incorporating textured walls, rich paint colors, and old-school accessories. "Swap out shiny new fixtures for vintage ones, replace contemporary lamp shades with pleated and patterned ones, comb online sources for quilts and vintage textile pillows," she adds. Pendleton also points out that, per the trend report, "vintage" listings increase by nine percent. However, if your idea of a cozy night at home includes curling up with a book, you're in luck: Zillow found home libraries are up 22 percent. A designated reading room might be the dream, but Pendleton says you can easily work with what you have."If you dont have space for a home library, you can still channel the bibliophilic design trend by decorating with books," she says. "Stack them high on coffee tables, display them on open shelving, or create a faux library with bookshelf wallpaper."Regardless of how you choose to bring a dash of coziness to your home, here's your permission to kick back, relax, and enjoy the great indoors. (Not that you really needed permission.)Related StoryFollow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

The trend cycle never ceases to spin, even in the world of interior design. While some viral designs, like coquettish bows and checkerboard prints, we're happy to leave in the past, there are a few that designers are happily carrying forward into 2025. After all, the best trends of 2024 really should have staying power. Whether it's the color of the year (any and all shades of burgundy), or the perfect sofa silhouette, the year's best interior design isn't going away simply because it's a new calendar year. We tapped eight interior designers to reveal their favorite design moments of 2024 and how they're keeping them fresh into 2025. Continue reading for their best expert-approved tips and tricks.Related StoriesWarm BrownsAime MazzengaOur favorite decorating trend of 2024 has been the use of warm browns as a dominant color in a home palette! We love the sophistication, warmth, and interest that brown adds to a space. Brown has an elegance and fee; effortlessly chic feel, in particular when layered with tonal colors. We strive for our spaces to feel restorative and easy to be in and brown is such an inviting and friendly color that truly levels up any space. We have been loving bringing in more red/purple-based browns into our daring clients' spaces, in particular dining rooms. Carly Shafiroff, Owner and Principal Designer, Carly Jane DesignTextured WallsBrie WilliamsI love the return to wallpaper and wall texture. For a while, the world was all about neutrals and safe beige looks and I'm excited to see that people are embracing wallpaper and different paint textures again. In 2025, we plan to do a lot with limewash, Roman clay, and wallpapers. There are so many great options and products out there and we are making it feel current by experimenting with new patterns, murals, and color combinations. Hema Persad, Founder & Principal Designer, Sagrada StudioSilver AccentsMariko ReedWeve seen a major shift toward all brass in recent years, but in 2024, people began reintroducing silver accents into dcor and architectural finishes. Its a great way to balance the warmth of brass while adding an unexpected pop. As a designer, I particularly love how silver strikes a balance between modern and traditional, and has so much versatility. Lindsie Davis, Founder and Principal Designer, Blueberry Jones DesignColorful Furniture and UpholsteryChris EdwardsI absolutely love the fact that people are finally shifting away from bright white for walls or just neutral for furniture and fabric, and leaning more into moody and rich colors and patterns. Keep this up for the next year by experimenting more with unexpected color combinations and bold contrasts. Linette Dai, Founder & Principal Designer, Linette Dai DesignMahogany and Dark WoodsNicole FranzenDarker, warm tones have come back in 2024, like walnut wood and chocolate brown. I love this because there's a coziness that lies within its depth. I think utilizing darker tones while balancing with complementing yet contrasting colors with similar undertones makes you want to stay in a space longer and relish it. Laura Williams of ATX Interior DesignAll Things BurgundyJulie SoeferMy favorite interior decorating trend of 2024 has to be the use of dark burgundy paint hues. Ive been drawn to this color for years and have used it extensively in my interiors, as well as in personal touches like my favorite flowers and even my nail polish. Its been exciting to see others embracing this shade, too. To keep it feeling fresh and current, I like to incorporate it with a mix of materials and lighter accentsthink natural wood, textured fabrics, and metallic details. This approach creates a balance, making spaces feel modern yet grounded and bringing warmth and richness without overwhelming the room. Becky Shea, Creative Director and Founder, Becky Shea DesignLayered InteriorsChris EdwardsThe art of mixing textures and patterns brings an incredible amount of visual interest to a home. In my opinion, theres nothing quite like a space layered with depth and characterits such an effortless way to create dimension and intrigue. Neutral minimalism has definitely had its moment, but this year, its been refreshing to see people embrace richer, more saturated colors, bringing personality and warmth back into their homes. I am all about continuing to embrace rich expressive colors while incorporating vibrant color pops in a variety of textures and patterns. It's the perfect way to push boundaries with a modern twist.Lindsie Davis, Founder and Principal Designer, Blueberry Jones DesignStained GlassNate Sheets Photography LLCIve always been drawn to colorthe richer the better. I am the great-great-granddaughter of Louis Comfort Tiffany of Tiffany Studios and Glass, and Tiffany glass is full of classic gem tones and deep concentrated colors and those color palettes have been an inspiration for me throughout my career. Colors may come and go, however deeply saturated gem tones seem to always look chic. I have always believed and continue to believe that you cannot go wrong with the right mix of old and new. That perfect vintage item mixed in with modern and sleek. Nadia Watts of Nadia Watts Interior DesignMixing MetalsBrie WilliamsIm loving the mix of metals to keep it fresh, throwing in a little brass here and a little nickel there. Its all about creating layers that feel intentional but still a little bit unexpected. Linda Hayslett of LH.DesignsFollow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Many people dream of moving abroad, whether it's to experience a different culture, a desire for a slower life, or as am escape from the ever changing political climate. But one road block you'll consistently hit, no matter your nationality, revolves around your visa status. Even if you have a work visa, being able to put down permanent roots in a country where you don't have citizenship is not at all stress-free. There are some loopholes, however, specifically around international real estate that make the moving (and remaining) process so much easier. Depending on the country, you can essentially buy your way to citizenship, or at least a permanent residency, by investing in real estate. One of the main caveats comes down to the price, because unfortunately, you can't simply purchase a $30,000 home in Greece, for example, and expect your dual citizenship to be approved the next day. There are other eligibility requirements you must meet, and they differ by country. These won't be cheap investments by any means, but ask yourself: How much are you willing to pay to change everything? Below, we've broken down 25 countries that offer a Golden Visa to Americans when they purchase a new international home.For more real estate stories:1United Arab Emirates (Dubai)owngarden//Getty ImagesThe UAE is a popular real-estate-to-residency option for a few reasons: There's no income, wealth, or inheritance tax. Residents also report a fairly high quality of life rating, depending on their income status, and purchasing property can lead to gaining full citizenship, though not immediately.After meeting the eligibility requirements listed on the Global Citizen Solutions site and proving that you own property in the country, you'll then receive a golden visa, which grants you residency for at least five years. The renewal process is fairly simple and can be extended to a ten-year visa. As long as you meet certain exceptional qualities around merit and contributing to the nation's development, a golden visa holder can gain citizenship.Citizenship or residency: CitizenshipMinimum investment requirement: $545,000Related Story: 8 Places To Visit In Dubai If You Love Design2TurkeyAlexander Spatari//Getty ImagesThe process of gaining citizenship via real estate investments in Turkey is much more straight forward than in Dubai, and there are plenty of advantages to doing so. You must purchase property and agree that you won't sell the home for three years, according to the Republic of Turkey's Investment Office, and then you can apply for citizenship. Turkey is home to some beautiful historic cities and stunning natural landscapes. The country has a universal healthcare systemand a big medical tourism industrythough you may want to check on other social and political issues before calling your accountant. Citizenship or residency: CitizenshipMinimum investment requirement: $400,000Advertisement - Continue Reading Below3DominicaNANCY PAUWELS//Getty ImagesDual citizenship can be had in this Caribbean island by purchasing a government approved project. you can find this list of projects the Commonwealth of Dominica site. After your purchase has gone through, you then have to pay an additional fee to the government which starts at a cool $75,000 (more if you're bringing any dependents along with you). You also must not sell your investment for three years after citizenship is granted. Even with the extra government fees, this is still one of the smaller investments on the list. Citizenship or residency: CitizenshipMinimum investment requirement: $200,0004St. Kitts and NevisBriBar//Getty ImagesIn October of 2024, the minimum real estate investment requirement for citizens ship in St. Kitts and Nevis was reduced from $400,000 to $325,000, which makes this second passport option an even more appealing pick. St. Kitts and Nevis citizens hold one of the strongest passports in the Caribbean, and you don't have to pay income, investment, or wealth taxes in the country. There's also no stay requirement.However, the minimum investment requirement of $325k is only for approved condos and resort hotel shares. For a single-family home or other private dwelling, the minimum requirement is $600k, and neither real estate option can be sold for seven years, according to St. Kitts & Nevis Citizenship by Investment site. Upon citizenship approval, expect to pay a government fee of at least $25,000.Citizenship or residency: CitizenshipMinimum investment requirement: $325,000Advertisement - Continue Reading Below5Antigua and BarbudaWestend61//Getty ImagesThis safe and welcoming country is a popular one among those who seek a second citizenship in and around the Caribbean. However, you don't have free rein of all the real estate listingsyou must purchase an approved project for this investment if you want that passport. After you purchase one of these projects, you can then submit the sale agreement, along with the other required paperwork, to the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU), according to Henley & Partners, and pay a fee of at least $10,000. Choosing Antigua and Barbuda as your second citizenship option will require you to spend at least five days in the country within the first five years of obtaining citizenship, and you won't be able to sell the property for at least five years, either.Citizenship or residency: CitizenshipMinimum investment requirement: $300,0006GrenadaWestend61//Getty ImagesWhen seeking citizenship through Grenada's investment program, the process is a bit convoluted than in some of the other countries' on this list. It's a lengthy, stringent process, according to Henley & Partners, and will require a background check. However, you'll get a healthcare system that is rated as the best in the Caribbean and will get to live (with no minimum staying requirements) in a truly beautiful place.The home you purchase to start this process must be from a list of government-approved projects. After you pay the minimum investment, you'll still be expected to pay an additional, non-refundable contribution of at least $50,000. The property must be held for at least five years.Citizenship or residency: CitizenshipMinimum investment requirement: $270,000Advertisement - Continue Reading Below7VanuatuRichard I'Anson//Getty Images The country of Vanuatu first started their citizenship by investment program in 2021, and have since revoked citizenship from almost 30 people due to illegal and unreasonable behavior, according to their Citizenship's Office and Commission website. While this might initially be off-putting, think about it this way: As long as you're not being rowdy, you'll get to live in a safe place. In order to obtain citizenship through a real estate investment, you must purchase property from a rather short list of approved properties and attend an in-person interview, but after that, there's no minimum stay requirement, according to Global Citizen Solutions. Citizenship or residency: CitizenshipMinimum investment requirement: $200,0008St. LuciaPaul Baggaley//Getty ImagesThis is one to keep an eye on. While St. Lucia does allow citizenship through a real estate purchase with a minimum requirement plus a $50,000 administrative fee, according to Henley & Partners, you must select a property from an approved list of projects. And right now, there are no projects available. Their website does say this list will be updated at some point, but there's no obvious timeline currently. Citizenship or residency: CitizenshipMinimum investment requirement: $300,000Advertisement - Continue Reading Below9Greece Allard Schager//Getty ImagesLive out your Mamma Mia fantasies by moving to Greece. Greece is a hot vacation destination, but there are many reasons to want to live there full-time, including amazing food, an affordable cost of living, a good public healthcare system, and, of course, proximity to other European countries. By purchasing real estate, you're given a residence permit of five years that you can renew an unlimited number of times, and you're allowed to apply for citizenship after seven years of residence.There are a few options to choose from when deciding your Greek real estate venture, according to Henley & Partners: You can spend the minimum requirement "towards the conversion of commercial properties into residential use or the restoration of listed buildings," or you can up your investment to at least 400,000 to purchase a single property. However, if you hope to live in Athens, Thessaloniki, or any of the islands with a population of more than 3,100 inhabitants, expect to pay 800,000.Citizenship or residency: Residency Minimum investment requirement: 250,000 Related Story: Beautiful Cities in Greece That Deserve More Love10SpainEloi_Omella//Getty ImagesSpain is one of the world's most popular vacation destinations thanks to its rich culture and history, an excellent quality of life, and a highly developed economy. Through their Golden Visa program, a real estate investment will help you gain a residence permit with an initial duration of three years. However, as long as you maintain your real estate investment, you can renew this permit every five years after that, according to Henley & Partners. Once you've resided in the country for 10 years, then you can apply for citizenship.There's no minimum stay requirement in Spain, but you do have to visit the country before obtaining the first residence permit. Citizenship or residency: Residency Minimum investment requirement: 500,000Advertisement - Continue Reading Below11MaltaSylvain Sonnet//Getty ImagesThis small European island is known for its mesmerizing beaches, quaint villages, and seemingly endless sunshine, and at first glance, it might seem like one of the more affordable real estate investment options on this list. However, with all the fees and a mandatory donation, the cost adds up. There are a few investment options to gain indefinite permanent residency in Malta. According to Henley & Partners, you can either make a property purchase of 300,000 in South Malta or Gozo or spend 350,000 anywhere else. There's also an opportunity to lease a residence for at least five years for 10,000 per year in South Malta or Gozo, or 12,000 per year anywhere else in the country. However, this is where the extra costs come in. There's a minimum investment requirement of at least 28,000, a donation to a non-governmental organization of 2,000, and a non-refundable administrative fee of 40,000.Citizenship or residency: Residency Minimum investment requirement: 300,00012HungaryTanatat pongphibool ,thailand//Getty ImagesStarting January 1, 2025, Hungary is opening up its golden visa program to include real estate purchases that meet a minimum spend requirement, according to Immigrant Invest. There are plenty of reasons to want to live in Hungary, besides the proximity to other beautiful countries: universal healthcare, lower cost of living, great food scene, and low tax rates.In order to purchase property, you must get permission from the Land Registry as well as hire a lawyer to accompany the deal. There are a few extra fees, but they're low compared to other options on this list. A residence permit is granted for ten years and may be extended once for another ten years. However, as long as you meet certain requirements listed on Get Golden Visa, you can apply for citizenship after eight years of residence.Citizenship or residency: Residency Minimum investment requirement: 500,000Advertisement - Continue Reading Below13ColombiaSebastian Saldarriaga Torres//Getty ImagesThis beautiful South American country doesn't have a minimum investment amount; the amount is set as multiples of the country's national minimum monthly salary, according to Global Citizen Solutions. The eligibility requirement states that a real estate purchase from a foreign investor must be worth 350 times the national minimum wage, which is about $335 currently. This will qualify you to obtain a temporary residency visa for one to three years. However, you can continuously renew this visa for the duration of your investment, and once you hit the five year mark, you can apply for permanent residency. Citizenship or residency: ResidencyMinimum investment requirement: $117,00014BrazilDanny Lehman//Getty ImagesA comparatively easy option for obtaining permanent residency somewhere outside the U.S. is Brazil. There are a few investment opportunities, but if you're doing so through a real estate purchase, the minimum cost requirement varies by region: Buying a property in the north or northeast of the country will cost at least BRL 700,000 ($140,000), and buying a property anywhere else will cost at least BRL 1,000,000 (about $200,000), according to Global Citizen Solutions. Once you've made your purchase, you're eligible for a permanent residency. To maintain status, you must keep the property for at least for years and visit the country once every two years. After you've lived there for four years, you can apply for citizenship.Citizenship or residency: Residency Minimum investment requirement: $140,000Advertisement - Continue Reading Below15CambodiaPhoto by Supoj Buranaprapapong//Getty ImagesIf you're looking to live in Southeast Asia, then Cambodia is the only realistic option for gaining permanent residency through a real estate investment. A big perk is the relatively low minimum cost requirement, though the ten-year renewable visa is another benefit.After living in Cambodia for five years, you can apply for a Cambodian passport, according to La Vida Golden Visas. Plus, there's no minimum stay requirement to keep your permanent residency status. Citizenship or residency: ResidencyMinimum investment requirement: $100,00016Anguillacdwheatley//Getty ImagesThis British territory in the Caribbean offers permanent residency through real estate investmen. Anguilla is popular for a few reasons, including its low taxes, idyllic scenery, no minimum stay requirement, and the fact that it serves as an easier pathway to British citizenship. According to Select Anguilla, there are a few fees you must take into account when purchasing real estate on top of the minimum investment requirement. You also must hold the purchase for at least five years in order to maintain residency status, but after that, you're able to apply to become a British Overseas Territories Citizen, according to La Vida Golden Visas.Citizenship or residency: Residency Minimum investment requirement: $750,000Advertisement - Continue Reading Below17Cayman IslandsJodiJacobson//Getty ImagesThe scenic Cayman Islands are mainly known for the absence of corporate, capital gains, inheritance, personal income, and recurring property taxes, but there are plenty of other reasons to seek residency there. According to Sotheby's Realty, permanent residency here opens the door to possible eventual British Citizenship, just like in Anguilla. However, the minimum investment requirement is the highest on this list, which could understandably turn away a lot of people. If this is something doable for you and your family though, then you're set to have permanent residency for life, as long as you visit at least one day per year.Citizenship or residency: Residency Minimum investment requirement: $2.4 million18CuraaoWestend61//Getty ImagesCuraao, located in the Caribbean, is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and is beloved for its beautiful scenery, political stability, and thriving economy. And because it's under Dutch rule, investors can apply for Dutch citizenship after five years of permanent residency, according to La Vida Golden Visas. To obtain permanent residency, there are a few investment options, a real estate purchase being one of them. However, how much you spend determines how long your residence permit lasts. If you spend $280,000, your renewable permit is valid for three years; spend $425,000, your renewable permit is valid for five years; spend $850,000, you obtain an indefinite residence permit. Citizenship or residency: ResidencyMinimum investment requirement: $280,000Advertisement - Continue Reading Below19CyprusStefan Cristian Cioata//Getty ImagesCyprus is a small Mediterranean island east of Greece with low cost of living, no inheritance tax, high-quality healthcare, and an extremely low crime rate. Not to mention, its landscape is stunning. To obtain permanent residency via real estate, you must purchase a property that hits the minimum investment requirement plus value added tax (VAT), according to Henley & Partners. You also must make a secured annual income of at least 50,000 from abroad to qualify for residence. The minimum stay requirement is small, requiring you to visit the country once every two years. After you've resided in Cyprus for seven years, you can apply for citizenship. Citizenship or residency: ResidencyMinimum investment requirement: 300,00020Namibia Marco Bottigelli//Getty ImagesConsidered one of the safest nations in Africa, Namibia is also known for its high quality of life, economic opportunities, and spectacular natural beauty. While the government is looking for more foreign investors, residency through real estate investments can only be achieved by buying in one approved location, according to Henley & Partners, and that's at the President's Links Estate. You obviously don't have many options when it comes to real estate investments, but if you do buy there, you'll get you a five-year, renewable work permit. After seven years of retaining the investment, you can apply for permanent residency. Citizenship or residency: Residency Minimum investment requirement: $365,000

If there's one thing that every designer agrees on, it's that the kitchen is the heart of the home. It's where day-to-day life happens, from late-night homework sessions to anniversary dinners, birthday celebrations, and memorable parties. It goes without saying, then, that you want your kitchen to feel welcoming and cozy, right? And if there's one thing synonymous with soul-warming comfort, it's a fireplace."A kitchen fireplace gives this old-world charm that draws in the familyand guests too," says Louise Copeland, founder of L.B. Copeland Interior Design. "Its the perfect spot to gather, share stories, and relax in the warmth. Its not just functional; it turns the kitchen into the true heart of the home, a cozy spot where everyone feels welcome to hang out."Originally placed in kitchens for utilitarian purposes, most homes no longer rely on an enormous fireplace to cook their daily meals or provide warmthbut that doesn't mean that it's not a welcome addition to the space. From historic homes that hold relics of years past to newer builds looking to add charm and comfort, a kitchen fireplace can instantly up the cozy factor in your cook space, inviting diners to linger longer and helping the room flex between functionality and ambiance.Looking to stoke the flames of inspiration? Below, we're rounding up 15 gorgeous kitchen fireplace ideas, straight from the industry's top pros. Our takeaway? Nothing burns brighter than a home thoughtfully designed for cozy comfort.More cozy design inspiration:1Add Subtle Seating Adam Kane MacchiaTo make it easier for your sous chef to take a load off after all that slicing and dicing, style a small seating area near your kitchen fireplace so they can take a load off while keeping an eye on the stove. In the kitchen fireplace idea in quaint farmhouse by LB Copeland Interior Design, two petite stools offer a front-row seat to the action. 2Fill It With FirewoodLizzie OrmeIf you find yourself with a nonfunctional fireplace in the kitchen, don't fret. The focal point can still be a great way to add visual interest and texture to your room. Instead of leaving it empty, consider piling it high with firewood, a selection of plants, or another creative addition (like books!). Advertisement - Continue Reading Below3Choose a Bold SurroundAndreas von Einsiedel//Getty ImagesRemember, your fireplace has a lot to compete with in your kitchen, from upper cabinetry and appliances to a gorgeous tile backsplash. To make sure it doesn't get lost in the shuffle, opt for a prominent mantel or firebox surround, like the antique stone design seen in this kitchen fireplace idea.4Select a Complementary StyleHearst Magazines UKIf a kitchen fireplace isn't original to your home, you want to be careful when selecting the size, location, and type of feature you add to your room. To ensure a natural fit, do a bit of research into what type of fireplace coordinates best with the architecture and age of your home, whether that's a brick beehive-style oven or a Colonial-inspired, cast-iron wood stove.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below5Echo the Shape Throughout Your SpaceCourtesy of deVOLTo further integrate your fireplace into your kitchen, echo elements of its design in the rest of your room, whether in the shape of the crown molding or the cabinet doors. In this stunning kitchen, designed by Banjo Beale and the team at deVOL, the curved arch of the fireplace opening is repeated on either side of the hearth for satisfying symmetry. Related Story: 16 Crown Molding Ideas That Add Architectural Character6Coordinate Your ColorsJane BeilesIn many cases, a kitchen fireplace idea will utilize natural materials and texturesmost of which come in shades of gray and brownso it'll be up to the rest of your space to marry those hues with the overall color palette. In this elegant cook space by architect Matthew R. Dougherty, a stone-clad surround melds perfectly with veiny gray marble and a metal range hood. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below7Make It MinimalisticTom Merton//Getty ImagesDoes your kitchen boast epic sightlines, either into the rest of your home or the great outdoors? Avoid adding visual congestion to your space by selecting a fireplace that whispers instead of yells. In this home, a floating midcentury moderninspired fireplace leaves plenty of room to enjoy the surrounding greenery.8Stray From TraditionCourtesy of deVOLYou shouldn't feel beholden to traditional design standards when deciding what your kitchen fireplace idea looks like. Think of the unusual placement as an opportunity to go bold with a tile surround or coat in a chic color, like the flowery pink seen here in a deVOL-designed kitchen.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below9Create the Best Seat in the HouseStephen Kent JohnsonYou know the feeling when you walk into a cozy restaurant, get seated by the room's roaring fireplace, and immediately feel like you scored the best seat in the house? Pretty great, right? Emulate that experience in your own home by placing your dining table and chairs near your hearth. Even if you're just unboxing takeout, it'll still feel like a Michelin-star experience. 10Mind the GapMichael J. LeeWhen designing a functional and effective cook space, there are a few general guidelines to keep in mind. One of the most important? Maintaining wide-enough walkways throughout the space, including around your kitchen island. Make the gap too snug, and you could be forced to shuffle around fellow cooks while juggling hot pansa recipe for disaster. If you're working with an already snug space, choose a kitchen fireplace idea that has a slim mantel projection off the wall. In this room by Carpenter & MacNeille, a barely there surround of wood and brick still brings plenty of charm to the space. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below11Share the LoveMichael J LeeGetting the opportunity to do a full kitchen renovation is exciting, especially considering it allows you the chance to include all sorts of extras, likeyou guessed ita fireplace. To make the most of the work (and money) the addition will entail, consider a see-through fixture that allows the room beyond to show through. In this charming home by KT2 Design Group, a multifunctional firebox shows love to both the kitchen and nearby living room, thanks to a dual-sided interior. 12Set It to the SideLaura Muthesius & Nora Eisermann for Our Food StoriesLet's be honest, there's a lot happening in the kitchen, and the addition of a fireplace might not be something you want to battle with among all the other appliances, cabinets, and pieces of furniture. Instead of putting it center stage, try adding a fireplace to the side of your kitchen, as seen here in a project by Laura Muthesius and Nora Eisermann of Our Food Stories. The resulting kitchen fireplace idea still brings that cozy factor, just without the congestion. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below13Level It UpWerner SegarraYou spend most of your time in the kitchen on your feet, staring at things that are counter height, whether that's the food you're prepping on your actual counter or a nearby stove. The point is, if your fireplace is ground-level, you risk missing out on the relaxing vibes it can impart. To remedy this, consider raising your fireplace to counter heightlike the stone design seen here in a project by David Michael Miller Design and Oz Architectsto bring the flames front and center. 14Put It Next to the Real DealZeke RuelasOne surefire way to seamlessly blend your kitchen fireplace into the rest of the room? By positioning it next to your stove. The two will have natural synergy, and the common-sense location will lend the impression that the fireplace was a historical feature of a bygone era in your homeeven if it wasn't. In this home by Rosa Beltran Design, a rustic brick design adds grit and a sense of history to the surrounding all-white cook space. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below15When in Doubt, Add a StoveCourtesy of deVOLStumped on how to use the shell of a former fireplace in your kitchen? When in doubt, use it to house your cooktop. Stove alcoves are having a moment in design right now, and this creative reinvention offers a seamless, low-effort way to achieve the look. In this space by deVOL, an antique stone fireplace and surround act as the main stage for cooking up cozy winter meals.

Sometimes a design idea that looks great on Pinterest isn't actually all that practical in real life. Think elegant marble countertops that hold no chance against dribbles of red wine or open-door showers that create slip-and-fall hazards. Or maybe that wild wallpaper you took a risk on in the powder room turns out to be less fun and more headache. Design professionals have hear about their fair share of renovation regrets, so we asked contractors and interior designers to tell us about some of the most common design issues theyre called in to fix. Heres what they had to say.Related StoriesMarble Countertops Marble countertops are a classic. But the soft, porous stone is not always practical, which is why Laura Hammett, founder and creative Director of Laura Hammett Interiors finds herself frequently swapping out the material heavily used kitchens. (She recommends a sintered stone like Neolith.)Fernando BengoecheaClients love the look of marble but then find the reality is you cant spill a drop of food or drink before it gets stained, she says. For clients who love to cook, especially with colorful spices, we recommend stones which still look beautiful, but are much more durable and hardier."Open-Floor PlansWith the rise in multi-generational households and a rapid increase in the number of people who work from home, Bethany Adams of Bethany Adams Interiors says her clients are no longer fans of open-plan living and crave a little more alone time. She started to notice this trend during the pandemic when people were spending a lot of time together. To accommodate these requests, I've added hidden pocket doors behind new built-ins and sleek glass and steel framed partitions and doors to section off more open spaces, she says. Adams has found theres plenty of ways to allow for separation without building full walls. Glass doors and partitions strike the right balance between the privacy the clients want, and the openness that they may have originally desired, she says.Open-Air Outdoor Living SpacesYou may imagine yourself lounging outdoors with a book or enjoying al fresco meals and dips in a pool. But homeowners frequently change their mind about expansive loggias and open-air lounging spaces, Robert W. Burrage, founder of Palm Beach County, Florida-based RWB Concierge Builder, says. Factors like humidity, heat, and seasonal storms can make it tough to enjoy those outdoor living spaces to the max. As a result, we often find ourselves enclosing these outdoor spaces to create comfortable, usable areas that can be enjoyed year-round, he says. Barn Doors and Shiplap Walls When the farmhouse trend started to explode around 2015, everyone asked their contractor for barn doors and faux shiplap wallseven if it didn't suit the house's architecture or family's needs, says Lesley Myrick, an Atlanta area interior designer. She has since removed several barn doors from clients homes, adding that they are a terrible choice because they let sound and light through. She has also scrapped plenty of shiplap walls, which are known to collect dust between the horizontal boards.SDI ProductionsShiplap on a bathroom wall.Many people saw the farmhouse trend as both current and timeless and rushed to upgrade their homes with these design elements, she says. But when these types of additions dont prove to be functional for your home or lifestyle, it's a design disaster. Some of her projects have included removing barn doors and tracks and installing a single-paneled doors, and in at least one case, removing a floating shiplap wall, which made room for a kitchen reconfiguration with a large kitchen island. Trendy Tiles Tile selection has been an issue on a number of projects that Alexis Woodbury Earman, Wilmington, a North Carolina-based interior designer with The Woodbury Home, has worked on. Many homeowners choose tiles based on inspiration photos and current trends, she says. Though these tile choices can be beautiful in pictures, the owner can grow tired of the trend and want to replace it with something more classic.She ends up remedying these types of designs by choosing neutral-colored tiles and adding color to spaces with paint. That way, anytime in the future they want to change the color in the space, they can do so much more easily. Clear Glass Doors Kitchen cabinets or pantry doors with clear glass doors can be beautiful, but they come with a few practical challenges that make them hard to live with on a daily basis, says designer Ashley Macuga of Collected Interiors.Since glass doors reveal what's inside, any clutter or mismatched items are easily visible, which can make even a new kitchen look messy if not perfectly maintained, she says. A quick fix is to update the clear glass to reeded glass, which obscures the visual, while still keeping the elegance of the material, she says.Courtesy Nicole Dianne PhotographyReeded glass, like those featured here on pantry doors in one of designer Ashley Macuga of Collected Interiors projects, are an alternative to more transparent glass doors or cabinets. Doorless ShowersDoorless showers may look great, but people who have actually had them installed often find them to be more trouble than theyre worth, says interior designer Shiva Samiei, the CEO of Shiva Samiei & Co. Water tends to splash outside of the shower area, causing moisture damage and slip-and-fall hazards. They can also be decidedly un-cozy, leaving you feeling exposednot a pleasant sensation when you're bathing.Custom glass panels and new drainage solutions are usually the fix that strikes a middle ground, helping bathrooms preserve a modern look while containing all the water.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

When you think of British company Farrow & Ball, the first thing that comes to mind is probably its unique, exceedingly rich paint colors. But savvy design prosand now you, tooare wise to the brand's lesser-known but no-less-luxurious small-batch, handcrafted wallpapersa guaranteed way to make a space feel special.Unlike many mass-produced papers that are digitally printed using ink, Farrow & Ball's are created with the brand's actual paintswhich are made in a building that is literally next door to the wallpaper factoryso they deliver that same renowned depth of color. And each roll is unique, due to the company's commitment to traditional artisanal techniques that result in slight variations in tone and texture. "People are at the heart of every stage of our process," says Farrow & Ball creative director Charlotte Cosby. "Our experts cut the foam pads used for our striped designs by hand, line up the paper for multi-layered patterns, and even wrap the finished rolls in our brown paper packaging."Robin KitchinShallot No.CB3They start the process by mixing colored pigment into a white base paint. Each pigment is added by hand or a dispenser, depending on how much is needed, and arriving at the desired end color requires precise calibration and multiple quality-control checks, given that the shades can look very different in the vat. (The seemingly bright red pigment being stirred above is Shallot, from the Carte Blanche collectionwhich, by the time it's ready to be applied to paper, will be "a cheerful pink," according to the company.)Courtesy of Farrow & BallTented Stripe 1351Once the paints have been prepared, Farrow & Ball's craftspeople employ labor-intensive techniques like open-trough and roller-block printing to make the wall coverings. In the former, shown above, a foam pad is cut by hand to create the patternin this case, stripes. Paint flows through the pad, and the paper is dragged along it, applying a continuous flow of color. (The neutral background color in this Tented Stripe pattern has already been applied and allowed to dry.)Robin KitchinAuguste 6504James MerrellAuguste 6504In the latter process, a foam roller applies paint to a roller block into which the pattern has been carved. The whimsical floral above, shown both being printed and cheering up a bedroom wall, is Auguste, one of five patterns in the company's latest wallpaper collection, Purnon Papers. The green leaves (colored with Farrow & Ball's Bancha paint) have previously been applied using a different roller block, and now the blooms, in India Yellow, are being added in a second pass through the equipment. Once the paints have dried, a Farrow & Ball expert checks the wallpaper to make sure the two colored elements of the design are lined up correctly.James MerrellAdelaide 6303The Purnon Papers patterns are all inspired by designs found in the 18th-century Chteau de Purnon, in France's Loire Valley. Above is Adelade, named for one of the daughters of the marquis who built the residence and modeled on a pattern found in her dressing room. (The aforementioned yellow-and-green Auguste floral takes the name of the eldest son.) James MerrellPurnon 6204Other entries in the collection were similarly discovered in the centuries-old chteaunot an atypical source of inspiration for Farrow & Ball's creative team. Barac was inspired by a fading fragment unearthed in the home's attic. Purnon (shown above), a toile-like pattern that incorporates a heron, was found on a folding screen that had likely been used as a room divider. The geometric Achard was inauspiciously discovered inside a linen cabinet, then grandly given the family's surname."One of the main considerations we make when adding patterns to our wallpaper collection is whether the design complements our techniques," Cosby says. "Naturally, a lot of our more traditional designs are well suited to the traditional methods we use." This also applies to many designs beyond the Purnon Papers; Wisteria, for instance (Wisteria 2212 is pictured at top), is drawn from 19th-century woven fabrics.Regardless of what century inspired the brand's various wallpaper patterns (53 are currently offered), all are made with very 21st-century, planet-friendly practices. The company sources its raw materials for both paint and wallpaper from ethical suppliers and powers its factory with renewable energy. In addition, many of the designs are made to order, and Farrow & Ball's paint is made in small batches, Cosby points out. Mostly, though, the company's focus is on creating both stunning designs and devoted customers. "We don't follow trends," the designer says. "We want to empower people to understand color. It's all about helping people create a home they love for years to come."

When Chandler and Jeremy Quarles saw the online listing for their Brentwood, Tennessee, home, the kitchen was conspicuously absent. During a tour, they quickly learned why. The kitchen was like a time capsulecompact galley style layout, original dark stained oak cabinetry, bright yellow formica countertops, and even the original oven that survived decades of family dinners, says Chandler, the lead designer of their Nashville-based studio Peach & Pine Interiors. It had remained virtually untouched since the house was built in 1965, but the duo knew the kitchen had immense potential to be light-filled, functional, and charming, says Chandler.The couple planned and saved for nearly three years before renovating the kitchen, along with several other rooms on the main floor. To open up the space, they removed a wall that divided the former dining room and kitchen. This allowed them to place a 10-foot, solid walnut island in the center of the room, and then line the perimeter with ample cabinetry built by Broken Compass Woodworking. The focal point became the range alcove, where a dark soapstone backsplash and walnut shelving add a moody yet sophisticated touch.Joseph BradshawThe Barcelo Cream marble used for the counters is a bit harder, more user friendly than many marble species, says Chandler. It has been easy to use and maintain! Wall paint: Swiss Coffee, Benjamin Moore. Pendants: DeVol Kitchens. Cabinetry hardware: Massey via Rejuvenation. Faucet: DeVol Kitchens. Curtains: custom, on Pottery Barn curtain rod. Wall art: antique.Near the kitchen, the original laundry room felt cramped and awkwardly placed, as it was in direct line of sight from the front door. So they transformed it into a butlers pantry thats a hub for all things beverages, making entertaining so much more fun, Chandler says. It has a door that leads onto the back porch, and it is the perfect place for guests to come inside and fill their glass or grab a drink from the mini fridge.Joseph BradshawThe new butlers pantry in what was once a cramped laundry room.Joseph BradshawChickens would have once occupied the bottom of this Irish pine cabinet from the late 1800s.Joseph BradshawAll new cabinetry lines the wall opposite the breakfast nook, including a paneled refrigerator.Joseph BradshawThe range alcove features adark soapstone backsplash and walnut shelving.Since the existing breakfast room that was connected to the kitchen already had big windows with views of the tree-filled backyard, all it needed was a facelift. They added wainscoting painted in Antique Pewter by Benjamin Moore and paired it with an understated Morris & Co. wallpaper, a serious upgrade from the orange, mustard, and olive plaid wallpaper they discovered under layers of paint in the kitchen. Fresh lighting from Visual Comfort completes the look.Joseph BradshawThe 1910s English oak drop leaf table was sourced from Patina + Co in Nashville. The chairs, an heirloom set from Chandlers grandparents, were recovered in Kravet fabric.A soft, neutral color palette fuels a sense of calm throughout every areafrom the kitchen cabinetry painted in Benjamin Moores Natural Cream to the Barcelo Cream marble counters. My inspiration comes from classic, historic architecture from the American South combined with a love for English interiors, Chandler says. It is designed for the present and inspired by the past.Related StoriesIn the mix of new and old pieces that achieve her vision, the antique kitchen cabinet stands out. It is an Irish pine kitchen cabinet from the late 1800s, and we affectionately call it the chicken cabinet, the designer explains. The [previous] owners would have used the bottom sections to house their chickens when they brought them in from the cold at night. Now we use it to store all the beautiful, decorative pieces that I keep collecting.Not only is the kitchen now a major selling point, but, more importantly, its a place where their family can actually enjoy spending time every day.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.