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.

If you have a nonworking fireplace at home, you might miss out on building cozy fires, but you can still indulge in the warm and comforting atmosphere it can offer. There are countless empty fireplace ideas that can transform this home feature into a stunning design centerpiece in the fall and winter months. Fireplaces are typically the focal point of any room they're in, and it's time to return them to their former glory. The best empty fireplace ideas honor their original purpose while keeping them both functional and beautiful. Whether you choose to fill the space with decorative firewood, an arrangement of pillar candles, or an unexpected artistic accent, were here to help ignite your creativity. Below, we spotlight 19 brilliant ideas for utilizing your non-working fireplace. Trust us, with these designs on display, youll never miss a roaring blaze again.Additional copy by Hadley Mendelsohn.More inspiration for a cozy home:1Feign FunctionalityRebecca LehdeThis empty fireplace idea involves stacking logs to evoke the charm of a rustic cabin, perfect for a lakeside retreat. Filling the nonworking fireplace completes the space rather than leaving it bare.Tour the Entire Home2Display AntiquesFrancesco LagneseTake note of this empty fireplace idea from designer Tom Scheerer who used one to house a paper fan. The additional wood is a nice nod to the structure's past life. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below3Keep It BareLesley UnruhRather than fill your empty fireplace in an already busily designed room, keep it simple. In this sitting room by designer Sarah Vaile, the fireplace may be bare, but padded hearth guards offer excellent overflow seating.Tour the Entire Home4Retile ItKingston Lafferty DesignOld meets new in this empty fireplace idea from Kingston Lafferty Design. The ornate Victorian mantel contrasts with the graphic tiled fireplace, which reflects the geometric cabinets. The cactus in the fireplace niche livens it up. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below5Paint It BlackNicole Hollis StudioBrick doesn't always vibe with sleek monochromatic decor, luxe natural stone materials, and modern art. Nicole Hollis Studio's solution was to paint over them with a dark or black color. This creates depth and makes the old-timey character of bricks more discreet. Do this if you want to make your empty fireplace look edgy but understated. 6Go MonochromeLeanne Ford InteriorsLeanne Ford painted this entire nonfunctioning fireplace whiteeven the decorative firewood. Then she warmed up the living room with pampas grass and cream accents. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below7Conceal the OpeningANNIE SCHLECHTERIf you want your fireplace to look like it works even if it doesn't, simply cover the facade with a classic black screen. This empty fireplace idea adds so much character to this country-inspired townhouse living room. 8Use a Statement ScreenJONATHAN HOEKKLOOr, make it pop with a decorative screen like this brutalist one. It conceals the empty fireplace but also spruces up the surrounding area. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below9Display ArtworkREID ROLLSIn this chic, texture-rich environment, interior designer Leanne Ford turned an empty fireplace into a little gallery to display pottery and artwork. 10Arrange FlowersFrancesco LagneseWhen in doubt, blooms are usually the answer. Liven up the drab space with a pretty flower arrangement, like in the empty fireplace idea in this Nantucket cottage by Jim Howard. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below11Fill It With Vintage BooksJersey Ice Cream Co.Jersey Ice Cream Co. filled this empty fireplace up with stacks and stacks of vintage books, complementing the rustic, aged look of the mantel. 12String LightsMike GartenJust because you don't have a mantel or a working fireplace doesn't mean you can't huddle up to a warm, cozy glow. Though this living room is decked out for Christmas, the string lightfilled lanterns could work all year long.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below13Add Natural TexturesKatie Hodges DesignGo the classic route and pile logs in your fireplace to give it an inviting and homey feel, even if you can't actually light them on fire. If you have reclaimed wood seats, flank your fireplace with them as Katie Hodges did in this empty fireplace ideathey'll accent the firewood perfectly. 14Store MagazinesCourtesy of Zeke Ruelas for Emily Henderson DesignsMagazine hoarders, rejoice. You finally have another place to store your latest reads. Take note from Emily Henderson and pile them up in your empty fireplace. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below15Make It the Focal PointLeanne Ford InteriorsYour impulse might be to draw the eye away from an empty or nonfunctioning fireplace, but this living room by Leanne Ford may convince you otherwise. "The clients wanted to elevate their space and I knew the full wall fireplace was an opportunity to do that! I randomly came up with this idea to do a tiered thing to it and covered it with my ever favorite concrete skimcoat," says Ford.16Display DecorJonny ValiantIf coastal style is your jam, try adding a large piece of coral inside your fireplace. You'll feel like you're by the sea, no matter where you actually live. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below17White OutHouse BeautifulA smart and easy empty fireplace idea is by simply saturating it with one color. To make the space feel lighter and airier, white should be your go-to.18Have A SeatCourtesy of Tessa NeustadtStick a small accent chair in your fireplace. It'll function as decor and extra seating when you need it. See more at Amber Interiors.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below19Light CandlesHouse BeautifulJust because your fireplace doesn't work, doesn't mean it should be in the dark. Placing candles in the space will give it an inviting glow.

Throughout Kevin Costners storied acting career, hes owned a handful of real estate gems. The Oscar winner still owns many impressive homes in California and Coloradosome of which have made headlines in recent years amid his divorce with Christine Baumgartner and efforts to fund his Horizon film series. So as Yellowstone moves forward without its John Dutton, were turning our focus to Costners property portfolio to help fill the void. From a California compound valued at $145 million to a 160-acre ranch in Colorado (which, yes, fans can visit!), there's no denying Costner's real estate holdings are grand.More Celebrity Real Estate:Courtesy of ParamountKevin Costner in Yellowstone.The $145 Million Compound in Santa Barbara, CaliforniaIn 1988, while married to his first wife Cindy Silva, Costner purchased a massive compound in Carpinteria, California, near Santa Barbara. The 1.4-acre lot exists on a bluff overlooking the ocean and includes a main house with two other houses on it. When Costner and Silva split in 1994, he kept the home thats now reportedly valued at $145 million. Before he officially tied the knot with his second wife Christine Baumgartner in 2004, he expressed that he wouldnt get married again without clarity that [his] separate property residences would remain [his] to live in no matter what happened in [their] marriage, per official documents. During Costner and Baumgartners divorce in 2023, which was finalized in February 2024, Costner claimed Baumgartner wouldnt leave the property. She was reportedly living in one of the smaller houses on it, and a judge eventually ruled that she had to vacate. She then moved into a Montecito rental home that cost a cool $40,000 per month, and the former couple settled the divorce with Costner maintaining ownership of the compound.The 160-Acre Ranch in Aspen, ColoradoJohn Kelly//Getty ImagesCostners largest property purchase is a 160-acre ranch in Aspen, Colorado, that he paid $30 million for in 2000, according to Business Insider. He named the estate Dunbar Ranch after his character in the 1990 film Dances With Wolves. On the ranch, there are three houses: the main six-bedroom residence (known as hill house), a three-bedroom lake house, and a three-bedroom river houseall of which are currently available to rent individually or together, starting at $10,000 per night. Each home boasts cozy, rustic charm thanks to exposed wood beams, fireplaces, and ample outdoor space. There are phenomenal views of the Independence Pass and Aspen Mountain throughout the property. Plus, there are tons of activities to do in the area including skiing, tubing, ice fishing, dog sledding, hiking, canoeing, and more.Related StoryThe Santa Barbara Home Costner Mortgaged for HorizonRichard ForemanKevin Costner in Horizon: An American Saga Chapter 1.By 2006, Costner scooped up a second California property down the street from his compound for a reported $28.5 million. The plot initially included roughly 17 acres, but he ended up selling seven of those to a neighbor the following year. While Costner intended to replace the existing two-bedroom, two-bathroom house with a larger residence, a guesthouse, and a pool, he decided to mortgage the home to fund his $100 million Horizon: An American Saga film series. Ive mortgaged 10 acres on the water in Santa Barbara where I was going to build my last house, he told Deadline in a 2023 interview. But I did it without a thought. It has thrown my accountant into a f*cking conniption fit. But its my life, and I believe in the idea and the story. In an interview with the Associated Press, he clarified: It wasnt an easy decision, but it was the decision I needed to make.Before mortgaging the home, Costner did briefly put the estate on the market for $60 million in 2017. He still owns the property, which has private beach access, a path for horseback riding, and ocean views. Love knowing what your favorite stars are up to? Same. Lets keep up with them together.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

My first encounter with different types of houses came through playing the The Game of Life. During the board game, when it was time to buy a home, I always hoped to choose the charming purple Victorian over the shabby split-level. Reflecting now, I wish I had hoped for house prices to match real-life real estate$200,000 for a house with a library, parlor, marble fireplaces, and a wraparound porch? Sign me up for a down payment!But life isn't a board game, and there are far more than nine different styles of houses to explore. There are myriad styles of houses across the U.S. For instance, the Ranch style is prevalent in the Midwest, Colonial Revival styles of houses are common on the East Coast, and Spanish Colonial styles thrive in California. The popularity of these types can vary by region, making it challenging to differentiate between styles.By examining architectural elements like trim, rooflines, the number of floors, and building materials, you can determine which types of houses you prefer and which ones don't appeal to you, once you're acquainted with all the styles available. To assist you, we've compiled a list of the most common types of houses, highlighting their defining features. Read on for our guide on types of houses from A to Zor V, so to speak.Additional copy from Caroline Picard and Hadley Keller.More real estate stories:1Townhousedeberarr//Getty ImagesWhen you picture a townhouse, you likely think of a brownstone in Brooklyn or the Painted Ladies of San Francisco. These types of homes are typically multistory, single-family homes that share at least one wall with neighboring townhouses. The style has European roots, specifically English and French, and it's often found in urban areas.2Split-Leveldavelogan//Getty ImagesA split-level is a multilevel, single-family home thats separated by half-flights of stairs. Theyre typically split into three or four levels meant to increase privacy within the home and make it feel more spacious. Garages are usually attached, the living rooms are quite large, and they feature low-pitched roofs. These types of homes were popular in the 1950s throughout the 1970s in the United States, but have fallen out of style in recent years.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below3Saltbox KenWiedemann//Getty ImagesDefined by the sharply slanted roof, saltbox houses are usually gable-roofed homes that have two stories in the front and only one in the back (due to the roof's steep angle). These types of homes are often found along the New England coastline.4Carriage HouseTom Sibley//Getty ImagesCarriage houses can be identified by their oversize and often arched center doorways. As the name suggests, wealthy families built these types of houses in the past as accommodations for their horses and carriages. You usually see them in urban areas next to or adjoined with a standard row house.Related Story: Elaine Santos and Windigo Architecture Converted a 19th-Century Carriage House Into a Warm, Modern HomeAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below5DuplexAshley Cooper//Getty ImagesKnown for its symmetry, a duplex is a standard, single-family home that has been split down the middle into two units. Each duplex has two fully equipped single-family homes, each with its own entrance. In urban settings, a duplex can also refer to a single apartment unit that spans two floors.6Tudororava//Getty ImagesYou can pick out Tudor homes easily thanks to their decorative half-timbering. This exterior accent is essentially a mock frame of thin boards with stucco or stone filling in the spaces between the boards. The rest of the exterior is usually brick. Tudors also tend to have a steeply pitched roof with multiple overlapping, front-facing gables (the triangular portion of the roof) of varying heights.Related Story: An Architect Explains Why Tudor-Style Houses Are So UniqueAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below7BrownstoneAlexander Spatari//Getty ImagesMost commonly seen in New York City, but also found in Boston, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and other urban areas, brownstones are defined not by their look but by their materials. The brown sandstone that was used to coat the exterior of these brick houses built in the early 19th century gives them their name.Related Story: How Designer James Jenkin Gave This Brooklyn Brownstone a Do-Over8A-FrameAdam and Kev//Getty ImagesAs the name suggests, A-frame homes are characterized by a triangular silhouette in the shape of a capital A. Most common in northern parts of the U.S., they're designed so that snow and rain side easily down the sloped roof. Related Story: BHDM Revitalizes a Quirky 1970s A-Frame in the Catskill MountainsAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below9Cape Codjhorrocks//Getty ImagesA standout example of both Colonial and Colonial Revival architecture, Cape Codstyle homes dot suburbs across New England. The low, single-story types of houses usually feature a large central chimney and little ornamentation.10American ColonialTetra Images//Getty ImagesTrue American Colonial architecture dates back to the Colonial era, from the 1720s to the 1780s. European settlers built these historic homes with steep roofs and symmetrical features in simple, rectangular shapes. True American Colonial homes will feature small-paned windows of wavy glass, a sign of the materials used at the time.Related Story: What You Should Know About American Colonial-Style HousesAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below11Colonial RevivalBarry Winiker//Getty ImagesInspired by 18th-century design, architects of the Colonial Revival style pay the same attention to symmetry but also borrow elements from other movements. Related Story: The Natural World Inspired Cecilia Casagrande in Restoring This Boston Colonial Revival12Cottage-StyleAriel Skelley//Getty ImagesEmbraced for its comfortable bridge of modern and traditional, cottage-style homes feature classic elements like small rooms, dormer windows, and porches but often take on contemporary finishes and decorations, like the double gable and mixed-material facade shown here. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below13American CraftsmanGetty ImagesAffiliated with the Arts and Crafts movement of the late 19th and early 20th century, these types of houses incorporate gabled roofs, deep eaves, exposed rafters, and special stone or woodwork. The Gamble House in Pasadena (which starred as Doc Brown's house in Back to the Future) is a perfect example.14FarmhouseFrankvandenBergh//Getty ImagesHarkening back to the United States' history as farmland, this style recalls the simple, function-forward architecture of barns and farm structures. Farmhouse homes are characterized by a symmetrical facade, simple gabled roof, and vertical-hung windows.Related Story: The Beginner's Guide to Farmhouse DesignAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below15Modern Farmhouse PC Photography//Getty ImagesAs its name suggests, this popular style is a combination of farmhouse elements with modern proportions, furniture, and decor. The marriage of rustic materials and modern lines is a favorite of Joanna Gaines, Leanne Ford, Lauren Leiss, and more.Related Story: Is the Modern Farmhouse Trend Dead?16French ProvincialNataliaCatalina//Getty ImagesBalanced proportion and brick or stone exteriors appear on these francophile homes inspired by 17th-century manors. They typically have steeply pitched and sloping roofs , tall arched windows, symmetrical designs, and at least two stories. It was a common choice in tony suburbs during the post-World War I era.Related Story: French Provincial Design Has Always Set the Bar for Casual EleganceAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below17GeorgianM. Lavender InteriorsPeaking between 1714 and 1830, Georgian architecture replaced ornate Baroque buildings with more pared-back designs. Most often executed in brick or stucco, Georgian homes feature symmetrical facades with large, shuttered sash windows and pedimented doors, gabled roofs with dormers, and over-window ornamentationall present in this home by M. Lavender Interiors. 18Gothic RevivalBarry Winiker//Getty ImagesThe return to this medieval architecture style in the late 19th century materialized in many churches and collegiate buildings, but homes from the period also sport pointed arches and steep gables. The Dibble House in Eldon, Iowa, inspired the famous Grant Wood painting American Gothic.Related Story: A Design Lover's Guide to Gothic ArchitectureAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below19ItalianateOlga Eremeeva//Getty ImagesWith origins tracing to early 19th century Britain, the Italianate style is a visual ode to the architecture of the Italian Renaissance, though swapping classical materials like marble for the wood and shingles more popular by the 1800s. Notable characteristics of these types of houses include low-pitched roofs, wide eaves with intricate ornamentation, and decorative window details. 20Midcentury ModernDelpixart//Getty ImagesOften confused with contemporary architecture, midcentury modern refers to homes built from the 1910s to 1980, when architects were pushing for function-first design and eschewing decorative features in favor of organic forms. Famous examples Le Corbusier's Villa Savoye and Philip Johnson's Glass House, which was associated with the International School of modernism.Related Story: 40 Midcentury Modern Living Rooms That Get the Retro Balance Right

It was the news heard around the world this week: After months of rallies on the campaign trail, Donald Trump was elected to become the 47th President of the United States. A new administration changes so many types of policiesforeign, domestic, economicbut how will it impact the real estate market? According to Danielle Hale, chief economist at Realtor.com, it's unclear.Despite a strong mandate from voters, the impact on the housing market remains a toss-up, she says. The chief problem the housing market faces is a lack of supply, which we estimate is a shortage on the order of 2.5 to 7.2 million homes accumulated over the last decade. The Republican party's plan includes curbing unnecessary housing regulations, which Hale says could add up to approximately $90,000 to the price of a new home.Efforts to reduce regulation could make it easier for builders to add homes at lower price points, potentially accelerating a much-needed trend that is already underway, she adds. Expanded supply could also come from making federal lands available for housing development. So does this mean the election results are actually a good thing for the real estate market? Not so fast. Though Trump does plan to reduce inflation, Hale points out that the proposed tariffs and mass deportation policy could negatively impact the housing market. Reducing immigration could severely hurt the labor supply needed for new home building since up to a third of residential construction employment consists of foreign-born workers, Hale explains. The consequences of that could include a reduction in homeowners equity via falling home prices and a contraction of employment in the homebuilding sector, which could have spill-over effects to the broader economy.It will be some time until we understand the election's full influence on the real estate market, but some communities might notice change sooner. In a recent study conducted by Realtor.com, 23 percent of participants claim that politics influence where they ultimately decide to live. The report also found that the political sorting phenomenon is more common with millennial, liberal-leaning individuals, and more engaged voters. If you're looking to move in the upcoming monthsfor political reasons or otherwisethe house-hunting process can be downright daunting. To help, we're breaking down everything to need to know about finding (and buying) a home.Related StoriesFollow 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.Jump to:As youre perusing West Elm and eyeing all of the sleek-lined furniture and abstract artwork, you may find yourself wondering: what type of style is this exactly? Everything on the shelves is new, but it feels inspired by vintage design. Words like modern and contemporary may come to mind when looking at these types of pieces, but what is the true difference between these two styles? Although you may find them being used interchangeably, these words indicate entirely different things.Here is what you need to know about the differences between modern vs. contemporary styles, so you can properly categorize your personal taste (or throw out the rules altogether!).Related StoriesWhat Is Modern Style?Lisa PetroleModern style is characterized by its emphasis on clean lines, minimalism, and neutral colors. Originating from the modernism movement of the late 1800s, and heavily influenced by German Bauhaus and Scandinavian design principles, this style focuses on simplicity and functionality. It integrates organic materials and geometric shapes, often eschewing ornate decor to maintain its clean and uncluttered aesthetic.Brad Thornton, founder and principal of Thornton Projects, says that modern style refers to early 20th-century design, before the midcentury movement of the 1950salthough midcentury designs often fall under modern as well. It later morphed into postmodernism during the 1970s and 1980s.Related StoryWhat Is Contemporary Style?Jared Kuzia PhotographyContemporary style in interior design refers to the aesthetic and design approaches that reflect current trends and the way people live today, embodying modern values. Its origin can be traced back to the 1970s, coinciding with the rise of postmodernism. Initially, contemporary style was a blend of various styles, but it later established its distinct identity. Characterized by fluidity, a mix of neutral colors with bold hues, varied textures, expressive art, and smooth surfaces, contemporary style is always evolving. Related StoryWhat Are the Main Differences? The main difference between modern and contemporary styles lies in their origins and adaptability. Modern style, which emerged in the early 20th century, is defined by its distinct aesthetic, encapsulating clean lines, geometric shapes, and neutral color palettes. In contrast, contemporary style represents current trends and is more of a reflection of individual tastes and contemporary culture.However, as modern style has become more popular over the last 15 years it has interestingly become absorbed into contemporary style. Thornton specifically points to retailers like West Elm selling midcentury-style pieces as examples of modern style with a contemporary twist.Soumi SarkarRelated StoryModern vs. Contemporary FAQsBetween modern and contemporary, which style came first?Modern style, despite its name, actually originated in the late-19th to early-20th century. In contrast, contemporary style emerged as a design term in the 1970s or 1980s, and it continues to be widely used in today's design lexicon. Are contemporary and midcentury modern designs the same? While there are some similarities, contemporary and midcentury modern designs are distinct from each other. Midcentury modern is a later iteration of modernism, characterized by its consistent features such as linear details, sleek curves, natural materials like walnut and teak, tapered furniture legs, and bold, earthy colors. Although contemporary design may incorporate these elements, it emphasizes innovative uses of materials (like plastic), softer shapes, and a fluid style that evolves with current societal trends. Additionally, midcentury design originated in the 1940s, whereas contemporary style is a reflection of present-day preferences.Lisa PetroleCan you mix modern and contemporary design?Yes, absolutely. If you love both design styles, there are ways to bring them together in your home. For example, furniture with clean lines pairs beautifully with curved pieces, as both styles lean away from traditionalism and offer a modern aesthetic. Bold colors, often linked with modern style, can be used as vibrant accents amid the neutral tones typical of contemporary design. Additionally, you can mix textures and surfaces, like pairing a modern glass coffee table with a contemporary boucl sofa, creating a harmonious and stylish fusion in your living space.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

After months of debates, rallies, and endorsements, Election Day is officially here. The 2024 ballot has a lot on the line, but is the real estate market one of them? Well, it depends on who you ask. According to McKenzie Ryan of Douglas Elliman, there historically hasn't been a shift in the real estate market post-election. Rather, it's a mental shift that gives people the confidence to buyone that she's been noticing before the polls close. Related StoryBryson Taggart, agent partnership manager at Opendoor, says aspiring homeowners should always buy on their schedulebut caveats the current news cycle may have some sway. "The election is top of mind for most Americans right now, and the housing market can be affected by the outcomes," he says. In fact, a recent Opendoor report found that 49 percent of baby boomers said the results of the 2024 U.S. presidential election could be influential in their decision to move in the next five years. But to where?Related StoryWhile Ryan notices a heightened interest in Floridanoting the "an incredible lifestyle, burgeoning real-estate market, and no individual income tax"she also says some people choose where to live based on their political stances. "Its actually called 'political sorting,'" she says. "This can happen at the state or even county level, influenced by factors like local policies, tax structures, and lifestyle preferences that resonate with specific political beliefs."Regardless of when (and where) you choose to move, Ryan says it's essential to do your research. Look into mortgage rates, housing inventory levels, and any new policies that have been voted on. "These changes may take time to roll out, but understanding their potential impact on the market and your investment can help you make a more informed decision," she says. "Work with knowledgeable real estate agents who understand both the local market and the potential impacts of post-election policies to make an informed investment." Related StoryFollow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Over the last few years, many of us have dreamed of living abroad. Whether inspired by Emily in Paris, the current political climate, or the desire for a slower lifestyle, moving internationally can be the piece we need to finally find a zen life. However, not all international real estate destinations are created equally. Some countries have a lengthy visa process, more daunting language barriers, and an difficult-to-navigate legal system. And a few, like Thailand and Vietnam, dont allow foreigners to own property at all. On the other end of the spectrum are the countries actively trying to attract foreign home buyers with enviable incentives. Ultra-low home prices, and an easier customs process and work-visa approval process can make the prospect of moving abroad less intimidating, if not entirely seamless. Ahead, were breaking down the eight countries that are the best for Americans who are looking to purchase a home internationally. These countries offer the most hassle-free buying experiences out there, plus, theyre pretty great places to call home.For more real estate inspiration and tips:1New ZealandScott E Barbour//Getty ImagesWith a very clear, straightforward, and highly regulated real estate market, New Zealand is a great place to move for those looking for a seamless home-buying process. Samira Easton, a certified international property specialist with Premier Sothebys International Realty, says, There is a strong network of real estate professionals, including agents and lawyers, who are accustomed to working with foreign buyers. The country also regularly boasts one of the happiest populations in the world, ranking 11 in the 2024 World Happiness Report.Book a Trip2Costa Rica Kryssia Campos//Getty ImagesWith clear property rights, a legal system that respects foreign ownership, and a warm, welcoming environment, Costa Rica is a top choice for foreign investors and a simple place to buy property, says Mauricio Umansky, CEO and founder of The Agency, which has offices around the world. This biodiverse country also has a large and bustling expat community so its not just easy for Americans to buy there, its easy for them to live and work there too.BOOK A TRIPRelated: Designer Raili Clasen on How to Master Surf Style Advertisement - Continue Reading Below3Dominican Republictodaydesign//Getty ImagesInstead of retiring to Florida, consider this balmy and beautiful Caribbean countrywhich is just a four-hour direct flight from the New York area. Like everything else on the island, the real estate laws are relatively relaxed, which makes buying a house easy-breezy, and you can buy and own property without having to obtain residency status or special permissions, as is the case in many other Caribbean islands. Foreigners can own property outright in the Dominican Republic, with legal protections for foreign investors, Umanksy says. One important consideration is financing: You can certainly get a mortgage in the DR, but it may not be quite as cushy as what you can get in the U.S.so pay cash if possible.BOOK A TRIPRelated: This Dominican Republic Airbnb Is the Perfect Tropical Getaway4Panama BriBar//Getty ImagesThis affordable, below-the-radar Central American country has breathtaking beaches, lush rainforests, and exceptional wildlife. It has many similarities with neighboring Costa Ricaincluding how easy the country makes it for Americans to buy real estate. Its Friendly Nations Visa program offers permanent residency for citizens of 50 countries, and the U.S. is on the list. Plus, Panama doesnt place any restrictions on foreign ownership, and the legal system is efficient and reliable, Easton says, so you can invest with confidence.BOOK A TRIPRelated: Expert Advice on Where to Buy Affordable Beach HousesAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below5ThailandKanok Sulaiman//Getty ImagesThailand is home to beautiful sandy beaches (it has 1,400 islands!), Buddhist temples, ancient ruins, and excellent street food, making it a good place to consider buying if youre looking for an easy investment. Housing prices are relatively affordable and foreigners can own up to 49 percent of the units in a condominium building, offering a straightforward option for property investment, Easton says. There are also plenty of English-speaking real estate agents and real estate attorneys who can walk you through the process. BOOK A TRIPRelated: The Ultimate Design Lovers Travel Guide to Bangkok6MexicoKim Rogerson//Getty ImagesBordering the Southwestern United States and a direct flight from most major cities, Mexico is a geographically desirable spot for a second homeand Mexico makes it especially easy for its American neighbors to buy property. The country has straightforward real estate laws for foreigners, especially in designated restricted zones like beachfront areas where foreign ownership is facilitated through a bank trust, Umansky says. Cities like San Miguel de Allende, shown are just as beautiful, especially for design lovers. Mexicos real estate agents also tend to be very professional and are accustomed to working with Americans and other foreign buyers.BOOK A TRIPRelated: This Mexican Home Is Shea McGees First-Ever International ProjectAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below7Portugal Alf//Getty ImagesThe people in this popular Western European coastal country are famously friendly and inviting, and that extends to real estate. According to Easton, Portugal offers a Golden Visa Program, which makes it simple to buy property and gain residency; clear real estate laws; and a well-established network of English-speaking real estate agents, lawyers, and notaries to help you during the process. In addition to the capital, the seaside city of Porto, seen here, is a popular destination for expats.BOOK A TRIPRelated: The Definitive Design Lover's Guide to Lisbon8Spain Kirill Rudenko//Getty ImagesLike Portugal, Spain offers a Golden Visa Program that enables foreigners to gain citizenship by purchasing real estate. Plus its real estate market is robust and transparent, and there are plenty of professional services in place to help guide you through the process. The are also numerous online resources and property portals available, so its easy to find listings and information, Easton says. This is a boon for those who arent able to make the trip over to Europe to house shop in person.BOOK A TRIPRelated: Everything You Need to Know About the Spanish Colonial Design Style

Tessa NeustadtEvery 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.If youre someone who is constantly swapping out the pillows on your living room couch, repainting your guest bathroom, and restyling your coffee tables, you know that home decor trends come and go. But whether your tastes at the moment run toward whimsigoth or cottagecore, there are probably a few choices you come back to again and again, elements so classic that you might even declare you'll stick with them forever. These elements probably have a few things in common: They're flexible (they can work with lots of different styles and pieces); aesthetically pleasing (sure, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but most of us know it when we see it); and they work (things that are overly fussy, complicated, or difficult to maintain don't usually stand the test of time). For examples, neutral colors are so adaptable that they can be considered a timeless design choice. Whether your style leans more modern, traditional, or somewhere in between, a neutral paint or upholstery can blend seamlessly into any aesthetic, says Abby Pendergrast, an interior stylist and set designer. People love them because they give a lot of flexibility. You can update the room with new decor or accessories, and these classic choices will still work as the perfect backdrop.Related StoriesTheres also a practical side to certain design choices that will always be in style. Think: Wood floors, built-in storage, or even the use of natural light. These dont just look goodthey also serve a purpose. They make your home more livable and functional, which is something people arent willing to give up, no matter what the latest trend is, Pendergrast says. Ultimately, timeless design is all about creating spaces that are beautiful, functional, and meaningful. Thats why people are drawn to these classicsthey make a house feel like a home, and that never goes out of style.From leather armchairs to gilded mirrors, ahead, interior designers share 10 decorating choices that will never go out of style.BookshelvesNathan ShroederSee the rest of this grand Florida home.Like any classic choice, bookshelves will grow with you as your sensibility evolves and changes. They can be endlessly re-styled and adjusted to hold whatever pieces you acquire along the way. Plus, they are a kind of diary of the books you are reading and the conversations you are having.Literature never goes out of style. A home without books isnt a home in my opinion. And a bookshelf acts as a blank canvas to explore your innate curatorial abilities, says Alex Bass, founder and CEO of Art Advisory & Interior Design Studio Salon 21. It is also something that grows with you and that you can constantly reorganize. So investing in a good one with timeless appeal is key. Natural Materials Paul BartholomewSee how this tricky space was made into the perfect kitchen.High quality natural materials such as wood or stone just get better with time. Using natural materials in your home is always a good idea, says Pendergast. They bring warmth, texture, and that feeling of authenticity we all crave. Wood, whether its flooring, furniture, or even ceiling beams, adds a cozy, lived-in vibe while stone is durable and elegant. Wood and stone age gracefully, developing character as the years go by. Theyre versatile enough to fit into any style, from modern to rustic, which means you wont have to worry about them ever going out of fashion, she says.Marble Mixed With WoodValerie WilcoxWhile we're on the topic of natural materials, let's not forget this inimitable combination. Marble and wood both have a knack for adding character and aging beautifully, and they're not just for kitchens. Think: Wooden chairs pulled up to a marble-topped dining table or a wood coffee table or console with a marble top. The combination is both timeless, modern, and neutral while bringing a luxurious feel to your space, says Bass.A Leather ArmchairRikki SnyderLeather furniture carries memoriesas a piece ages, its patina changes. And a leather chair can hold its ownthe material has weight and personality that makes an excellent companion to a wide range of nearby colors, fabrics, and patterns. It fits any type of design aesthetic, whether youre going for something more mid century or more traditional, Bass says. I love seeing the wear in a piece, the cracks and the wrinkles. Paint Colors Inspired by NatureMark RoskamsSticking with paint colors inspired by naturesuch as soft blues, calming greens, whites, and warm tanshelp create a peaceful and balanced space. These colors are easy on the eyes and make your home feel more like a retreat, Pendergrast says. Earthy, natural shades are always in style because they have this effortless way of grounding a space. They act like neutrals, so you can easily switch up your decor over the years without having to repaint the whole place.A Wooden TableChristopher StarkA wooden table such as an antique farm table is a timeless piece worth investing in. Whether its a coffee table, side table, or made for a dining room, Youll always find use for it and its something sturdy that will never go out of style, Bass says. Gilded MirrorsBrie WilliamsProof that gilded mirrors can work in two very different interiors.A gilded mirror adds a touch of elegance and luxury to any space you put it in. Theyre versatile pieces that can complement both classic and modern decor. It easily enhances the ambiance of any room, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere, Bass says. The ornate detailing often found in gilded mirrors reflects craftsmanship and artistry, giving it a unique character that stands out in any space. More broadly, mirrors are functional as well as decorative, and they help brighten a room by reflecting light and helping t0 create the illusion of more space. This blend of beauty and practicality ensures that gilded mirrors remain a beloved choice across different design trends and eras, says Bass.Stripes in Textiles and WallpaperRead McKendreesee how one designer perfected preppy styleStripes are a classic pattern that dont ever feel too trendy. You can throw them on curtains, rugs, or even wallpaper, and theyll add a bit of structure without overpowering the room, Pendergrast says. Whether you go bold or keep it subtle, stripes always find a way to fit in. The best part about stripes is how flexible they are. They work with just about any style, and because theyre so simple, they wont clash out with other patterns or elements in your space, she adds. Natural LightAndrew FraszTour this dreamy wine-country home This one might fall into the category of "so obvious it's almost not worth mentioning." But then again, sometimes we need a reminder that the fundamentals can make or break a room. It's hard to beat the look and feel of sunlight streaming into a room, says Pendergrast. (And as anyone who's lived in a dark space knows, letting in as much natural light as possible is a game changer.) It makes any space feel bigger, brighter, and more welcoming, Pendergrast says. Plus, its a free way to make everything in your homefrom your furniture to your plantslook better. Built-In Decorative DetailsSean LitchfieldBuilt-in details such as crown molding or wainscoting givs your space instant character. Your home may already have these features, but if they dont, they are often simple additions you can implement. These features add a little polish without feeling too stuffy, and they make the room feel more custom and unique, Pendergrast says. Crown molding and wainscoting have been around for ages, and theyre not going anywhere. These architectural details are subtle ways to add depth and elegance to a room. Even better is they have the ability to blend with any style, whether your vibe is traditional or modern. A Checkerboard FloorHaris KenjarIt's simple and classicyet never feels stuck in the past. I would always say that a black and white checkered painted floor is super timeless and also contemporary, says Bass.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram.

Selling a home can take months, and that doesn't even include the prep work and appraisals that are required before you can list your property. But once you've got all your ducks in a row and the listing is up, you can finally start counting down to the offer. It's well known that in some areas of the country, real estate listings barely last a week online, while in others, homes can sit for months, waiting for the perfect buyer. A recent study of the "for sale" data from Realtor.com for over 900 U.S. metropolitan areas in the past months, done by marketing agency Premier Online Marketing, showed that the top ten U.S. cities that boast the shortest amount of time on the market are located in the Midwestexcept for one.Ahead, we're breaking down the ten cities in the United States where homes sell the fastest, including the average selling price in each place.Related StoriesRochelle, IllinoisMedian Days on Market: 30Average Listing Price: $274,900This suburb of Chicago boasts an average on-market time of just 30 days for newly listed homes. Rochelle is one of the more affordable towns near a major metropolitan area, with a median home price of just under $275,000. Rochelle is just 80 miles west of the city and is known for being a transportation hub with several major US highways passing through the town.Springfield, Ohiohalbergman//Getty ImagesMedian Days on Market: 30Average Listing Price: $226,000Just 25 miles Northeast of Dayton sits the picturesque town of Springfield, Ohio. The area, now infamous for former President Trump's false pet-eating claims, features a robust real estate market. Homes, at an average price of $226,000, are selling a mere 30 days after being listed. Oshkosh-Neenah, WisconsinMedian Days on Market: 29Average Listing Price: $329,900Arguably best known as the birthplace of OshKosh B'Gosh, a clothing company, the Oshkosh-Neenah area also has a speedy real estate market. Here, homes are sold for an average of $329,000 in just under 30 days. Milwaukee-Waukesha, WisconsinHenryk Sadura//Getty ImagesMedian Days on Market: 29Average Listing Price: $399,000Situated along the Fox River, Waukesha, Wisconsin is a part of the greater Milwaukee metropolitan area. Known for its breweries and bustling arts scene, this is an excellent place to raise a family. Here, homes sell 29 days after being listed, on average, and are purchased for a median price of just under $400k.Ashland, OhioMedian Days on Market: 26Average Listing Price: $249,000Southwest of Cleveland, Ashland, Ohio, is the seat of Ashland County. Here, homes are finding buyers in a mere 26 days. The average cost of houses in this area hovers around $249,000.Defiance, OhioMedian Days on Market: 26Average Listing Price: $209,900Despite the feisty name, Defiance, Ohio, is known as a tranquil place to live. Here, homes spend a mere 26 days on the market before selling for an average price of $209,900. The closest metropolitan area to Defiance is Fort Wayne, Indiana.Fremont, OhioDouglas Sacha//Getty ImagesMedian Days on Market: 25Average Listing Price: $185,900In Fremont, Ohio, 25 miles west of Sandusky, newly listed homes spend just an average of 25 days on the market. Fremont is a relatively affordable place to purchase a family home, with the median price being well under $200,000 at $185,900. Fremont is home to the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums.Midland, MichiganMedian Days on Market: 25Average Listing Price: $326,500Homes listed in Midland, Michigan spend an average of 25 days on the market before selling for the area's median price of $326,500. Midland is just west of Bay City, Michigan, and is home to the Chippewa Nature Center.Rockford, Illinoisbenkrut//Getty ImagesMedian Days on Market: 25Average Listing Price: $215,000Rockford, Illinois is home to a clutch of museums, including the Burpee Museum of Natural History, the Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum, and the Rockford Art Museum. In this area of Illinois, homes spend an average of 25 days on the market and sell at a median price of $215,000.Manchester-Nashua, New HampshireDenisTangneyJr//Getty ImagesMedian Days on Market: 23Average Listing Price: $550,000At just 23 days, homes for sale in the Manchester-Nashua area of New Hampshire boast the shortest time spent on the market on this entire list. While the average home price in this part of the country is slightly higher at $550,000, this area is beloved for its schools, proximity to nature, and overall quality of life. Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Nickolas SargentThe Kips Bay Decorator Show House has returned to Dallas, Texas, for its highly anticipated fifth edition. After facing logistical challenges at their previous location in Preston Hollow, the show found a new home in an unexpected place: a two-story office building in the exclusive Turtle Creek neighborhood. Originally intended to be the citys first Mandarin Oriental hotel, this French-style estate offers the bone structure and space needed to host the event. Twenty-five designers rose to the challenge, transforming the unconventional 25,000-square-foot space into a showcase of design innovation and trends.Show houses have a way of pushing designers to think outside the box in order to elevate their rooms, but this commercial setting required even more creativity to order to disguise features unsuitable for residential design. A drop ceilings highlighted the often-overlooked fifth wall, while the absence of windows provided opportunities for bold wallpaper choices. Customization took center stage, including banquette seating equipped with built-in drink perches and window cornices that extend to the floor.The show house, which also serves as a fundraiser for the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club, is open to the public through November 13, 2024. If you cant make it to the Lone Star State, dont worry all the noteworthy design tips and tricks from the Dallas show house are waiting for you below.1Bold BotanicalsNickolas SargentZeke Jordan & Chappell Loudermilk of Loudermilk Jordan LLC made a big statement with this custom, large scale Gracie wallpaper that makes a the definitive case that oversized florals are in. 2Sweet ScallopsNickolas SargentA scallop detail is a playful touch that adds a lighthearted, but still chic, note. Try it on a statement ceiling like Katie Davis did in this kids' bedroom.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below3Marble MillworkNickolas SargentThe marble trim throughout Courtnay Tartt Elias of Creative Tonic Design's whimsical kitchen is a jaw dropping detail. Go big by doing all your trim in stone or start off small with a statement doorway.4Artistic RentalsNickolas SargentDesigner Robert Brown let the art do the talking in the "Salon dArt Moderne." CoCollect is making art more accessible but allowing customers to rent art from collectors, galleries, and museums all over the world.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below5Twice the TrimNickolas SargentTiffany Woodson of INK + ORO Creatives, coupled this bathroom's traditional ceiling molding with a fabric trim, an unexpected pairing.6Leather Lined ShelvingNickolas SargentIn Traci Connell's "Femme Fumoir" cigar lounge there's a subtle detail everyone can implement hidden amid the glamor: The shelving in the built ins are wrapped in leather for added luxe.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below7Cocktail PerchNickolas SargentWhile there were plenty of custom built-ins throughout the house, in Javier Burkle of Burkle Creative's "Sobremesa Lounge," there's always a place to put your drink while sitting on this gorgeous tequila bar's banquette.8Metallic DetailsNickolas SargentIn the tea room by Amanda Darnell Berry of Henry Street Design's, the millwork surrounding the room has a little extra sparkle thanks to the brass detailing throughout.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below9Bathed in ButterNickolas SargentButter yellow is having a moment. Thankfully CeCe Barfield has provided a case study in how to introduce this trend into your home through this darling dressing room. 10Creative CornicesNickolas SargentYou can add interest and structure to your window coverings by using a cornice; take it one step further by extending those cornice down to the floor, as Eddie Maestri of Maestri Studio did in his space, "Le Salon de Musique."Advertisement - Continue Reading Below11Lush InteriorsNickolas SargentWhether through picturesque nature-inspired wallcoverings or color palettes inspired by beautiful landscapes, there's no shortage of ways to bring in the outdoors in Jan Showers lounge. 12Anywhere BanquettesNickolas SargentThe "Timeless Dining Room" by Kim Scodro features banquettes not featured around a table but facing each other for conversational seating. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below13Familiar ReferencesNickolas SargentVictoria Sass of Prospect Refuge Studio chose to embrace the design elements of her childhood home in a new way. Bringing in nods to wood paneling and upholstered sofas in updated, unexpected ways can add a sense of comfort while still remaining stylish.14Covered CeilingsNickolas SargentSince the building was fitted with acoustical tile grid ceilings, designers like Heather and Matt of French & French had to address the fifth wall in a big way. Whether you opt for a high gloss lacquer or tenting with fabric, don't forget to look up when designing your space.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below15Back to BackNickolas SargentDesigner Trish Sheats of Trish Sheats Interior Design, built intimacy within a large room with mirrored sofas grounding peacefully symmetrical lounge spaces.16Nesting NooksNickolas SargentCreate cozy respite with custom or perfectly sized seating cocooned in a niche, as designers Robert Frank and JT Torres of Robert Frank Interiors did in this airy study.

You've likely seen Make It Cute's aesthetically pleasing cardboard playhouses all over Instagramor perhaps right smack in the middle of your cool mom friend's living room. The company, founded by three friends, Amanda Seyfried, Anne Hoehn, and Maureen North, designs playful and whimsical children's toys you don't need to hide away when guests stop by. In fact, you can keep it displayed in plain sight and stuff your own items into them.House Beautiful. And guess what? No one's the wiser. The playhouses are made of recycled materials and free of plastica hit for anyone trying to run an environmentally conscious household. They come in different styles, like Modern Farmhouse and Cottage that feature the sweetest hand-drawn illustrations, such as door knockers and climbing vines. Adults may even find themselves getting in on the fun, too, especially when it comes to decorating the outside of the playhouse. (Its holiday-themed decor kits are super chic.) Make It Cute Cottage$220 at makeitcutekids.comMake It Cute appeals to design-forward parents, and Seyfried is certainly part of this group. The actress, who has a son, Thomas, and daughter, Nina, has an eye for creating beautiful spaces both for herself and her kidsSeyfried's dreamy New York City apartment and charming farmhouse upstate, designed in conjunction with Sarah Zames, founder of General Assembly, are evidence of this. Seyfried calls the playhouses a "compromise" between kids and parents. Her little ones, who are both under 10, get to have their fun and leave the playhouse out ("I don't clean up their stuff every night," she admits), and in turn, it doesn't become an eyesore, unlike so many children's toys out there. "Our home is a shared space, so I want them to feel like they have their own space," she says. "But when it comes to design [and how something looks], this is on my terms."Andrea Carson Styled by Greenwich PlayAhead, Seyfried opens up about about the difficulties and joy of navigating that space between building a beautiful home and embracing the messiness kids inevitably bring into it. Related StoryHouse Beautiful: Have your kids influenced your design aesthetic?Amanda Seyfried: Honestly, I was neutral, neutral and after I had kids, I knew I needed to go out of my comfort zone. I really, really love pinks and neons [now]. I love how [Make It Cute], and having kids in general, has inspired me to evolve [in my design choices]. I wear black, gray, and white. But in terms of what I want to surround myself with, its color and also smart ways of using color. It's been fun to dress up my very neutral apartment with my daughter's artwork [for example].Matthew WilliamsThe children's room in Seyfried's NYC apartment.HB: How do you navigate designing for your personal style while also creating a kid-friendly space?AS: It's been tricky. The rule is that I'm going to use the materials I want to use regardless of whether or not that theyre easily ruined. I like wood, I like plaster walls, I like marble. But I also know that having kids, they don't understand what goes into that and the care certain materials may need. I buy things that I love and if they get ruined, I'll wash or I'll fix it. That's important. I know a lot of people just want to get something that is not very costly because they know it's going to get ruined, and I totally get that. [But] I am so into architecture, design, and creating a space that I feel comfortable and cozy in so I won't compromise [on that].Matthew WilliamsThe powder room.HB: Speaking of not compromising your aesthetic for kids, can we talk about the artwork you have in your bedroom? AS: In my bedroom, I have a wall with four artwork pieces. My friend Aria got me this thing that she found: an embroidery piece that I did of...I don't know how to say this...I embroidered an STD, an abstract STD. I'm crocheting three purses right now, but when I embroider, I like to embroider things that seem ugly and try to make them beautiful. I made this beautiful, I think it's beautiful, pictures of STDs. Then I have this beautifully knitted 3D boob that comes out of a gold frame. [The artist] is someone I follow on Instagram and I just love her work. I support and buy from a lot of artists on Instagram. This other girl H.H. Hooks did a custom vagina above the boob. It's all different felt, embroidery, knit, and rug hooking, all on this wall surrounding my closet. I'm always like: "Oh, you need to see my wall upstairs. Please come." Joe FletcherSeyfrieds kitchen in her upstate home.HB: Whats the one thing youre particular about in the house? AS: There's one thing that makes me want to cry: if [the kids] scratch the cabinets or people touch them with their dirty hands. I'm like, "Get your filthy hands off my cabinets." If you drip spaghetti sauce on it or even water or coffee, you got to clean it up right away. But nobody is as focused on the cabinets as I am. And that's okay. I do not fault that, to each their own. Cabinets and rugs, I won't spare a penny. If I've earned my keep and worked this hard, I have to have clean, nice cabinets. Sorry, it's stressing me out thinking about it. And the rugs [need to be clean too]. I bought the rugs from abc carpet & home before I had my kids, these old gorgeous Turkish rugs that I spent too much money on because I didn't have anything else. I don't spend my money on a lot of things except art, rugs, and building my own houses. Matthew WilliamsThe actresss kitchen in her NYC apartment. Related StoryHB: Where do you shop for your children's furniture and decor pieces?AS: I just got a set of beds from West Elm for my daughters room because my son is going to move in there at some point. I do really like their take on sustainability and I like that neutral wood they have. Theres this company, Rice by Rice, where I get these little baskets that are toy bins. You'd have to look it up. It's very cute. They don't last forever with kids because they jump on these things when they're full of toys and the kids don't treat it very well. But, [they look] very sweet and beautiful around our house. Ive also been buying a lot of antique stuff for them to put their stuff away in, which is silly because antiques can be expensive, but its recycling and also I never feel guilty about buying them.Rice by Rice Raffia Storage Baskets Set with Animal Theme $400 at ricebyrice.usWest Elm Elora Bed$699 at West ElmRice by Rice Raffia Big Oval Basket$154 at ricebyrice.usHB: What is your favorite nook in your house upstate when you want to decompress?AS: My window box, its the size of a twin bed and is in the back of the living room, on the first floor. On the weekends, Ill wake up with the kids on Saturday mornings, I make them breakfast, and then I sit in the window box while the kids watch Bluey. Ill crochet there or just sit therethats me decompressing. It's everything. It's my happy place. When I'm not there, I've noticed my husband uses it. [Out the window] there's a giant birdhouse on a tall pole that I inherited from the previous owners, and [the window] looks back into the woods [so you can see] the deers and the fields out back. This is a sacred spot. HB: What is your favorite spot to hang out in as a family?AS: The living room for sure. I finally invested in those cloud couches from Restoration Hardware because I kept seeing them in people's homes. I'm like, "Okay, fine. I'm going to get it." I got it and it's got stains all over it, but that's why we cover it with all my blankets and it's just so... We have this pad that's on it that's like this faux shearling pad. It's just so cozy. The kids can fight on it, envision it as a boat. Everybody can fit on it. It's nine feet long. It's perfect.Joe FletcherSeyfried's living room in her upstate home.HB: What is your best advice for designing a space that the whole family will love, but that you don't lose yourself in it?AS: I think it's really important to have a place where you can throw all the clutter and the toys away at night to get some zen back. Stepping on cars in the kitchen and tripping over their little scooters, it gets old. As much as we want them to clean up after themselves, different ages come with different challenges. I think if you want to stay sane in a house full of kids, youve got to hopefully train yourself to let certain things go, too. Weve used the playhouse as a place where we throw extra stuff in to hide the items.Related StoryFollow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Trend forecasting is partly a skill honed through years of experience and partly an art fueled by instinct. Here at House Beautiful, we spend a lot of the year shining a light on the trends we and other experts predict will bubble up and dominate in the upcoming months and years, such as whimsigoth and bookshelf wealth (remember that one?). But you can't talk about what's going to be in without also focusing on what's going to be out. Entering a new year is all about starting overthese are the trends that dominated in 2024 that the experts do not want to see in 2025.Related StoriesExtreme MaximalismThere's a fine line between a tasteful maximalist space and something that feels extremely cluttered, and Gideon Mendelson from Mendelson Group says that we've veered too far towards the latter in 2024. "These chaotic rooms make me uncomfortable! True maximalism requires a more detailed eye, meticulously layering color, pattern, and texture," he says.Peter Spalding, co-founder of Daniel House Club, agrees. Don't get him wrong: He's a fan of maximalism. However, he believes there needs to be more restraint when it comes to designing these types of spaces, pointing to Katie Ridder (who he interned under) as a prime example of how to do it right. "In her work, there's a lot of thought about what individual pieces are saying to one another and how the whole is responding to the architecture," Spalding says. If you want to create or alter your maximalist interior in 2025, try a slow decorating approach. Sterile MinimalismOn the other end of the spectrum, designers are tired of seeing bare interiors too. Minimalism has its place, says designer John Stivale, co-founder of Stivale Graffam Home, but he thinks some of us have leaned into the trend too much, creating interiors that feel completely devoid of life. Mendelson echoes this opinion, saying these all white places can feel cold and impersonal when not done right. All Beige EverythingCavan Images//Getty Images Similar to sterile minimalism, Steven Graffamco-founder of Stivale Graffam Homedoes not want to see the all-beige-everything aesthetic brought into 2025. "Although neutral tones can be calming, too much beige in every room became monotonous," he says, adding that he'd rather see dynamic color palettes with playful tones throughout the home. Large Central Light Fixtures Anyone with a TikTok or Instagram account knows about the plight of the Big Light, and designer Meghan Jay is ready to toss it aside for moody accent lighting instead. "In 2024, the trend was to install large, central light fixtures. And while chandeliers can create a dramatic moment, they don't necessarily add to the overall ambience of a room," she says. For 2025, Jay is definitely going to take a page out of Gen Z's book and opt for layered lighting for moody, cozy spaces. Related StoriesScallop DetailingScallop detailing is timeless in interior designin moderation, that is. But due to an excess of scallop-detailed pieces, Jay says the look now feels "juvenile" rather than elegant and whimsical. "The goal of the trend was to introduce organic shapes and a touch of whimsy," she says. "While I appreciate the nod to nature and the variation in texture, this trend now feels cutesy." Organically-Shaped FurnitureSimilarly to scalloped accents, Jay is ready to leave behind organically-shaped coffee tables, as well. Kidney shapes and coffee tables that "look like tree trunks," as the designer puts it, are tired and overdone. She explains that varying mediums and shapes in interiors is a good thing, but these too-literal interpretations of organic design feel out of place in a room with more refined pieces. Too Much FlutingExcessive fluting and channeling is another trend Spalding doesn't want to see in 2025. I'm done with it because it makes rooms hum just a bit too much for my liking, he says. When fluting is done in low relief on pilasters and credenzas, for example, it gives off an air of sophistication. When done in high relief on essentially every piece of furniture, it's repetitive and overbearing. Clunky, Curvy FurnitureApparently, this Gen Z design trend is already on the chopping block. Though Mendelson admits that curvy furniture has a place in modern interiors, "throwing it in any room can feel bulky and awkward." You can't just throw one of those bubble chairs into any room and expect it to look coolit still needs to fit into a curated space. So beware: if you buy curvy furniture simply because it's trending at the moment, then you're going to grow tired of it a lot faster. So. Much. Boucl.Designers Gillian Segal and Chrissy Jones seem to think we've finally hit peak boucl. Segal explains that while she still loves the material, she clarifies that she only wants authentic wool boucl, not the polyester blend you often find now. "While I love the texture and coziness of boucle, I feel its been overused to the point of losing its impact," Jones says. Boucl is one of those materials that works in moderation. "Good design should be accessible for all, but I think the over-saturation of this look has made the material feel very ubiquitous," Segal adds.Courtesy of Chrissy JonesChrissy Joness own boucl chairs. "I still love the fabric, dont get me wrong, I just need it to not be in every single project," she says.Knock-Off FurnitureWe don't think any designer would disagree with this one, but Segal calls it out. "The Internet has turned so many great pieces into fast trends, which is heartbreaking to see," says the designer. Taking classic and original designs and producing "dupes," aka "throw-away" pieces, as she puts it, is disappointingly common. "I would love to see larger companies supporting more makers and original design," Segal adds. Related Story Wiggle TrendWiggles are another classic Gen Z trend that got a lot of traction in 2024. Jones believes that while they can be playful and bold in decor, they're not very timeless. "As a designer, Im always aiming to create spaces that age gracefully, and the wiggle trend feels too fleeting for that," she says. Slatted Wood Accent WallJerel Lake, a designer who's part of our 2024 Next Wave class, calls slatted wood accent walls a "time-stamped" detail, likening it to shiplap or a painted accent wall. "This trend is a popular way to add texture and accent to walls, but can often look forced and unfinished in a space if not done correctly," Lake says. Related StoryFollow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

There are a myriad factors to consider when you buy a home, but one element trumps both square footage and amenities: longevity. With the drastic increase in climate change disasters and weather events over the last few years, potential home buyers are focusing on finding a home that can weather what the next decade or more will bring. And while coastal cities tend to be at the highest risk for climate-related damage, you don't have to be landlocked or on top of a mountain to have the safe home of your dreams. Real estate experts at Zillow have recently decided to add climate change information and climate risk data on all home listings on the site moving forward. Climate change is a very broad category, so rather than a blanket statement or risk assessment, the data is being broken into five categories of climate-related factors that pose a significant danger to US communities: Air quality, flooding, fires, extreme wind, and extreme heat. Read on for the 5 cities at the lowest risk for a climate disaster.Related StoriesDetroit, MichiganPhoto by Mike Kline (notkalvin)//Getty Images8.9% of all new listings in August had a flood risk.Located in Northern Michigan, just south of Canadian border, Detroit is known for its automotive industry and thriving music scene. Here, only 8.9 percent of all newly listed homes were at risk of flooding. The Detroit River flows into Lake St. Clair, a beautiful setting for a family vacation or long weekend spent along the shores.Cleveland, OhioPhoto by Mike Kline (notkalvin)//Getty Images5.0% of all new listings in August had a flood risk.Cleveland, Ohio is located on the southern shores of Lake Erie. Most of the city sits between 600 and 800 feet above sea level, and lake temperments are less unpredictable than the ocean, meaning only five percent of listings have a flood risk warning. Cleveland is a great city for sports and music fans alike, as it's home to the Cleveland Cavaliers and Browns, as well as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.Indianapolis, IndianaJohn J. Miller Photogrpahy//Getty Images7.3% of all new listings in August had a flood risk.More commonly known as Indy, Indianapolis is the capital city and the most populous metropolitan area in Indiana. Here, only seven percent of homes are at risk of flooding, and these homes are typically located along the riverfront. Kansas City, KansasEdwin Remsberg//Getty Images2.1% of all new listings in August had a fire risk, 6.5% had a flood risk, and 0.8% had an extreme heat risk.Despite Kansas City's location straddling Missouri and Kansas, Zillow's research highlighted the latter as one of the cities least at risk for climate disasters. Here, only two percent of new listings were at risk of fires, 6.5 had a flood risk, and less than one percent of newly listed homes were at risk of extreme heat. KC is a city on the rise, and is a welcoming metropolitan area for new college grads and families alikeyou might even spot Taylor Swift every once in a while.Columbus, OhioSky Noir Photography by Bill Dickinson//Getty Images0.2% of all new listings in August had a fire risk, and 5.0% had a flood risk.Ohio's state capital, Columbus is located on the Scioto River. Here, less than one percent of newly listed homes were at a heightened risk of fires, and only five percent were at a flood risk. Columbus has a rich arts scene and is home to a number of nationally recognized museums like the Columbus Museum of Art and Center of Science and Industry. Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

As the colder months approach, it's the perfect time to consider those home improvements you've been putting off. Since you'll be spending more time indoors, it's an ideal moment to breathe new life into your living spaces with these fresh bathroom remodel ideas. Whether it's tearing out the outdated powder room, upgrading the vanity in your ensuite, or completely revamping the guest bath to properly welcome holiday visitors, a bathroom remodel can be a rewarding gift to yourself.The bathroom is a crucial part of any home, deserving to be an inviting and serene space rather than cramped, dark, or outdated. If envisioning the design potential of your space feels challenging, professional designers can help bring your bathroom remodel ideas to life. Below, youll find inspiring before-and-after examples showcasing successful bathroom remodel ideas. These transformations highlight how even the most dated bathrooms can be turned into stunning, magazine-worthy spaces. Read on to discover expert tips and uncover the bathroom remodel ideas that could work for you.Additional copy by Kate McGregor.Before: Overly TraditionalCourtesy of JAMThis busy bathroom was not only a bit dizzying to the client and the team at JAM, but it was overly traditional. Thankfully, the sink and counter werent in bad shape.After: Moody and VibrantGieves AndersonMegan Prime, cofounder and principal of JAM, installed this tree motif wallpaper to add some color and connect the home to its location near Central Park. While there were several other updates in this bathroom remodel idea, the new wallpaper significantly revitalized the space.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowBefore: Dark and ClunkyCourtesy of JAMIts not shocking that a bathroom lacking a window would be dark, but this one just felt too dark. Prime also points out that the storage felt very awkwardthe wall-mounted medicine cabinet and stock vanity were falling apart. Plus, the clients needed lots more counter space.After: Natural Materials and Soft LightingGieves AndersonIn this bathroom remodel idea, the JAM team went heavy on natural materials and a neutral color paletteit brought a nice warmth to the space, especially after they switched out the lighting for something nicer on the eyes. They added a single sink over a built-in, oversized medicine cabinet so the clients would gain that desired counter space and could take advantage of the lofty height.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowBefore: Simply SterileCourtesy of JAMThis is one of those bathrooms that hadnt been updated in years and was feeling a bit sterile due to the all-white palette. The team at JAM wasnt a fan of the tiled walls either, Prime adds.After: Wood-Paneled Jewel BoxGieves AndersonTake this bathroom remodel idea as the excuse you need to take risks with the design of your powder room. The warm wood paneling and crisp white marble countertop create a striking vision. We used the same paneling in a number of other spaces throughout the home, including the foyer, and kitchen, so it was a great way to tie all these spaces together, Prime says.Related Story: In Defense of Wood Paneling: It's Back and Better Than EverAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowBefore: Boring and LifelessCourtesy of Ariel OkinWhile theres nothing technically wrong with this bathroom, its ho-hum style is not impressing us. It looks like just your run-of-the-mill, builder-grade powder room.After: Vibrant and PlayfulRead McKendreeAs soon as designer Ariel Okin worked her magic, this powder room became a vibrant jewel box of a space. The designer used her own wallpaper collection with The Mural Source in this bathroom remodel idea, and it adds so much life to the room. TOUR THE ENTIRE HOMEAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowBefore: Kind of SpookyCourtesy of Trish BeckerThis powder room under the stairs gave off a kind of spooky vibe to designer Trish Becker. Maybe it was the lack of color or all of the reflective surfaces, but it just wasnt going to work in this Spanish Colonial house.After: A Joyous SpaceCarmel BrantleyBecker completely transformed the room into something her clients would love. The wallpaper, vanity, and window shades brightened it right up, she says. Thanks to the patterned wallpaper and bright colors, it just feels so much more playful than before.TOUR THE ENTIRE HOMEAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowBefore: Dark and CrampedCourtesy of Four Brothers Design + BuildWhen this bathroom was originally built in the 1960s, it was state-of-the-art. However, through a modern lens, it was in desperate need of repair. The Four Brothers Design + Build team encountered a problem: The low concrete ceilings couldnt have overhead lights added.After: Light and BrightCourtesy of Four Brothers Design + BuildTo counteract the lack of an overhead light, Sandra Zabroske explains that the team added more wall sconce lighting and widened the main opening with a large pocket door to allow for nature into the space. This, along with the addition of darker tones from the vanity and floor, resulted in a beautiful, warm, modern bathroom.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowBefore: Fine But Too SmallCourtesy of Ballard & Mensua ArchitectureThe client wasn't entirely against this classic bathroom, but she found it far too small to comfortably accommodate her and her two teenage children. The lack of natural light was also a problem.After: Private and AiryRobert Radifera PhotographySeth Ballard of Ballard & Mensua Architecture explains that they had to add a small addition in order to expand the bathroom into a space the client would actually want to use. They created a bathroom suite, with a Japanese bath (a tub inside the shower) and put in plenty of windows with custom PVC shutters for extra privacy without sacrificing natural light. Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowBefore: Ready for a RefreshCourtesy of Olivia WestbrooksDesigner Olivia Westbrookss clients were on vacation when their house had been struck by lightning and caught fire. While the structure remained intact, most of their belongings were lost. They used this opportunity to embark on their dream bathroom remodel idea.After: Contemporary and BoldMarc Mauldin PhotographyTo infuse a sense of fun and whimsy into their home, the Westbrooks adorned the walls of this powder room with bold floral wallpaper, complemented by black floor tiles. The fixtures are elegantly outfitted in stunning brass, creating a modern space that boasts both an edgy touch and abundant warmth.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowBefore: Awkward and DatedCourtesy of BVA BarnesVanze ArchitectsAs soon as you entered this bathroom, directly to your left were the toilet and tub, making for an awkward layout in an already outdated, dark room with some interesting embellishments on the wall.After: Modern and CleanNick JohnsonHowever, all it needed was a nice, bright refresh from BarnesVanze Architects, and this bathroom feels so much nicer. By changing just about everything, but most notably the bathtub location and the addition of a double vanity, the design team was able to make this bathroom remodel idea feel modern while still having character. Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowBefore: Lacking in CharacterCourtesy of MV ArchitectsThough there's nothing wrong with the look of this bathroom, it's severely lacking in character. One step inside this room, and you could be in any number of three-star hotels that are lined up along an interstate.After: A Spa-like RetreatKeyanna Bowen of East and Lane PhotographyJust as modern as the bathroom before the upgrade, this primary bath is now a unique feature of the historic home. The team at MV Architects created a cool space with black tiles, live plants, and deep wood tones, helping to capture a minimalist wabi-sabi look without the room feeling cold and uninviting.Related Story: Wabi-Sabi Interior Design Is Our New Favorite Take on Minimalism

If you've ever pined after the home in Practical Magic or wished your mom would've let you dress like Buffy from Buffy the Vampire Slayer growing upEvan Collins, describes the moody aesthetic was initially popular in the late 1980s through the '90s (think Interview with the Vampire and Tim Burton), but it's currently making a comeback in the world of interior trends.Dark spaces that are injected with humor and a bit of mystery are the essence of whimsigoth, says designer Blair Moore. With a heavy display of jewel tones mixed with soft pastels, the style isn't nearly as dramatic or dreary as fully gothit has a notable playful element to it that helps balance out the seriousness. You can even find whites and creams interspersed in whimsigoth decor, just enough to add an ethereal element but not enough to feel airy and bright. For more trending aesthetic inspiration:"Whimsigoth gives people a way to infuse a little fantasy into their daily lives, with unique textures, eclectic pieces, and just enough mystery to keep things interesting," Inara Tirkkonen, an interior architect and the Art Team Lead at Redecor, tells House Beautiful. With the confirmation of a second Practical Magic movie, the release of spooky TV shows like Agatha All Along, and witchy icon Stevie Nicks trending (when is she not?), it's not at all surprising why this aesthetic is popular again. Get all the detailsand a curated shopping listbelow.The Design Elements that Make Up Whimsigoth DecorThough there are different subsets of gothic style, you can safely assume that the main color used is black. With whimsigoth, that is not the case. You'll find a rich tapestry of jewel tones like emerald greens, midnight blues, and sumptuous burgundy paired with lighter hues like pale lavenders, misty grays, and creamy ivory, Moore says. The colors aren't so much the focus as the shades, which must be mostly dark with bits of light sprinkled throughout to create depth. How you play with texture in whimsigoth decor is just as important as the general color scheme. A whimsigoth interior must be cozy yet mysterious, plush yet delicate, grand yet inviting. Velvet, lace, gilded accents, dark wood tones, aged and colored glass, antique brass, filtered lightall of these materials, textures, and layering elements help to envelop you in this enchanting style.Whimsigoth is a maximalist aesthetic at its core, and it uses a collection of nature-inspired patterns along with saturated colors and layered textures to prove that. "Motifs weave throughout the design, from celestial patterns that evoke the mysteries of the night sky to intricate floral designs that bring a touch of natures whimsy indoors," Moore explains. These three design pillars are used to tell a story, one filled with wonder, history, and fantasy. "Whimsigoth should make you feel a little bit like youve stepped into a dream, or maybe even an old storybook," Tirkkonen says. "Its the kind of space that makes you want to stay a while, wrapped up in a blanket with a cup of tea." Yes, Whimsigoth Is Different from Goth StyleA true goth aesthetic is more somber and macabre in its decor. Black monochromatic palettes and an eerie vibe with an emphasis on the dramatic and melancholic make up this style. Whimsigoth, on the other hand, is where you get some variety in color and a bit of playfulness, according to Tirkkonen. It's less brooding and more curious, and there's a definite sense of fantasy that isn't present in goth. Though they're both dark and associated at least in part with witchcraft, whimsigoth isn't so heavy and brings more eclectic elements so "whimsy and darkness coexist in perfect harmony," Moore adds.How to Style Whimsigoth in an Elevated WayThe whimsigoth aesthetic is not really something you can craft all at oncein that sense it's an example of "slow decorating." High-quality pieces, preferably vintage, are necessary to capture the ideal vibe. Whimsigoth tells a story, after all, and you can't really tell an enchanting story without a few statement and one-of-a-kind pieces. However, combining these antiques with modern touches keeps the space feeling fresh and more balanced.As with any design aesthetic, you need harmony to create an elevated atmosphere, from lighting to textures to color. Turn off the big light and go with ambient and natural lighting instead to add depth and an inviting glow. Decorating with a lot of candles, ideally in antique candelabras, captures that ethereal and storied touch, especially as it flickers and reflects off all of the metallic accents you have in the room. By layering lace and velvet as well as metal and wood, you're balancing richness with lightness. Too much velvet, for example, can get heavy; too much wood might come off as rustic. Below, we've curated a list of pieces that perfectly capture the whimsigoth trend.

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.Lizzy Mathis resisted the urge to move for a long time. She had a make-it-work sensibility when it came to her growing family's home. As you grow, you try your hardest to make the space that you have work, which we really did, she says. It was an ethos she had also embraced for Honest Renovations, the design show she co-hosts with Jessica Alba. On our show, that's what we do too." But three kids later, Mathis's family needed more space. "We knew that it was time to make a change.Earlier this year, Mathis and her husband chose a California ranch-style house in Los Angles with four bedrooms and three bathrooms as the setting for their next chapter. Built in the 1940s, the homes layout made a good base for renovations. I loved how the kitchen was a major focal piece of the home and how there was still so much room for us to put our personal touch on it, says Mathis, who founded the lifestyle blog The Cool Mom Co.Aaron WojackAs an avid cook, on and off-camera, Mathis spends most of her time in the open-concept kitchen, where the existing skylightsher favorite feature of the roomlet natural light pour in. She added more storage to encompass a mix of fluted cabinetry, drawers, and open shelving, satisfying every organizational need and allowing countertops to stay clutter free. Dont ever second guess adding storage, she says. Youll never regret it.Aaron WojackI want anyone who walks in the door to feel like they are welcome.Her favorite kitchen feature is a toss up between the pot filler over the stove and the marble waterfall island. The kids do homework at the island, and the nearby dining table, and guests gather there while she cooks. (Many of her favorite recipes come together in a cast iron skillet, like double-crust chicken pot pie.) And while a home-cooked meal invokes comfort instantly, the kitchens neutral color palette creates a warm, inviting tone that carries through the rest of the house. I want anyone who walks in the door to feel like they are welcome, Mathis says. I love that our home feels lived in but not cluttered and calm but not sterile.Aaron WojackPerhaps the most serene part of the house is the primary bathroom, which required a serious rework to include a tub, walk-in shower with glass doors, double vanity, andmost importantlya water closet. Mathis confirms the tucked-away toilet within the bathroom really does change the game, especially in a marriage. Plus, it maintains the area's sanctuary-like spirit.Aaron Wojack When Mathis isnt preparing meals in the kitchen or relaxing in the bathroom, shes in the former garage, which now doubles as an office and bonus room for movie nights. Converting that space presented an opportunity to add skylights for maximum brightness during the day. A 10-foot by 10-foot shed just outside makes up for lost garage space.Mathis clearly has a thing for smart storage, and apart from a small collection of Bon Apptit magazines that she might turn into a gallery wall, Mathis isnt a big collector. When you have a house full of kids, things accumulate very quickly, Mathis says. So I've learned very early on with children to make the things that are important, important. But the things that you do not needdeclutter, declutter, declutter.Aaron WojackAaron WojackAaron WojackAaron WojackShe keeps art and decoration minimal too. The pieces she does have carry a great deal of meaning. In the honorary spot above her bed hangs a painting of a woman and a horse. She's very mysterious, but it just feels like she has so much strength and power," says Mathis. "I put that one over our bed because I wanted to wake up and feel all that strength and power going into my day. It gives me hope and a sense of courage.Aaron WojackMathis's bedroom is clearly a place to recover and regroup. Her nightstand is home to rose quartz crystal and an inspirational book, in case she wants to read a few pages before bed. She always ends the night with meditation session through an app on her phone.Aaron WojackAaron WojackAaron WojackAaron WojackBeing in California means it's paramount to take advantage of the warm weather. While Mathis has already installed a pergola above the outdoor dining area and has a cozy fire pit setup, she hopes to create extra hangout zones for the family to spend more time together. Currently, she's working on zhuzhing up the backyard landscaping.I love that our home feels lived in but not cluttered and calm but not sterile.Aaron WojackAaron WojackThe house truly feels elevated and lived in, a balance Mathis always strives for in her personal space and appreciates in any home she visits. At the moment, there's plenty of room to continue growing into it. I don't think this is our forever home, but it's perfect for right now. Aaron WojackMathis and Alba's design show special Honest Renovations: A Holiday Makeover will stream on The Roku Channel on November 8, 2024.Shop Pieces Inspired by Lizzy's HomeZH4YOU Rattan Dining Chairs, Set of 2$240 at AmazonStonewashed Linen Quilt$129 at The CitizenryCHUNGYANG Rattan Pendant Light$160 at AmazonKinzie 72" Bronze Wood Credenza$1,499 at CB2

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 time for an at-home paint refresh, many people reach for bright and airy hues. Pale blues, creamy whites, and soft grays are the most popular interior colors, but we suggest thinking outside the neutral box for your next paint project. The best dark green paint colors are moody and all-encompassing, wrapping the room you use them in in a big hug. Dark green paint colors can be incredibly calming when used correctly. Think of the color as restoring as it brings to mind imagery of nature. From an earthy olive green to an almost black hunters greendark green can be utilized in nearly any room of the home, but it's best utilized in smaller spaces. While this may seem counter-intuitive, it can create a strong visual impact without the need for fancy fixtures or a lot of fussy design elements.To ensure you find the best dark green paint color for your home, weve laid out designer spaces with brilliant uses of the versatile option. Get ready to be inspired and potentially get the sudden urge to paint your whole home dark green. And if you like a few options but need help narrowing it down, we have you covered with expert tips on how to choose a paint color.Additional copy by Kelly Allen.Find more paint inspiration.1Great Barrington Green by Benjamin MooreHeather TalbertDesigner Nate Berkus opted for the dramatic Great Barrington Green to adorn this powder room's four walls. This dark green paint color, with its slightly cool undertones, softens the gilded hardware and geometric stone sink.The homeowners didnt want the home to feel starkthey didnt want to live in a gallery, Berkus says.Buy Now2Ash Grey by Farrrow & BallBrie WilliamsTo counter the sprawling mountain views in House Beautiful's 2024 Whole Home, designer Anne McDonald chose to paint her snug (a culturally British-style space designed for coziness and two people maximum) in Ash Grey by Farrow & Ball. This intimate space is ideal for winding down with a book after a long day. Buy NowAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below3Mediterranean Teal by Benjamin MooreHeidi HarrisSlightly more blue than its Caribbean Teal counterpart (further down this list) Benjamin Moore's Mediterranean Teal is perfect for those who don't want to choose between green and blue. Designer Anna-Wooten Loggins of A. Wooten Interiors was tasked with infusing this Atlanta home with personality, so bold colors (that weren't too overwhelming) were chosen to warm up the formerly stark space.Shop Now4Bancha by Farrow & BallRustic White PhotographyIn this formal sitting room just off the home's primary suite by Mark Williams Design, a cool-toned dark green paint color offers a soothing vibe for starting your day. To keep the sitting room relaxed, they used warm textures and colors oak planks, natural limestone, and a rich green wall color that reflects the courtyard outside. Shop a similar shade below.Shop Now Advertisement - Continue Reading Below5Amazon Green by Benjamin MooreJoyelle WestDesigners Miggy Mason and Roisin Giese painted this bar area in Amazon Green by Benjamin Moore to make it pop in an open-plan kitchen. The saturated dark green paint color in a high gloss finish also covers a rolling ladder for accessing hard-to-reach items, allowing the functional feature to blend in. Shop Now 6Daily Greens by Clare PaintJared Kuzia PhotographyA deep olive green can look good practically anywhere. For the office of a Boston Colonial Revival, designer Cecilia Casagrande used the color on the walls and mantel. She incorporated luxe finishes and vintage furnishings to give it the feel of a London social club. Shop a similar shade below.Shop Now Advertisement - Continue Reading Below7Black Forest Green by Benjamin MooreJANET MESIC MACKIEA dark green paint color infused with a bit of black is the ultimate shade for creating a not-so-cookie-cutter bathroom. In this space, designer Mark Lavender of M. Lavender Interiors used a glossy version of Benjamin Moore's Black Forest Green and paired it with a clover pattern from Scalamandr on the mirrored wall. Shop Now 8Traron by Farrow & BallTrevor Tondro PhotographyEvery vacation home needs a bedroom with shiplap-covered walls painted in a calming gray-green, like this setup in designer Heidi Caillier's Anderson Island cabin. Shop a similar shade below.Shop Now Advertisement - Continue Reading Below9Country Squire by Sherwin WilliamsSTEPHEN KENT JOHNSONMake your mudroom stand out with walls painted in deep emerald green. In Juan Carretero's upstate New York home, the designer used Sherwin-Williams's Country Squire paint on the walls. He outfitted the rest of the mudroom with black-and-white tiles, vintage iron dice stools, and a writing desk. Shop Now 10Lawn Party by Backdrop HomeArent & PykeIf you want to walk into a room and immediately feel as though you've entered a spa, use matte moss-green paint. Incorporate plush accents for a true oasis. In this space, Arent & Pyke added a painterly room divider and relaxing lounge chair. Shop a similar dark green paint color below. Shop Now Advertisement - Continue Reading Below11Ripe Olive by Sherwin WilliamsNICOLEHOLLIS StudioFor a dark green paint color that's borderline black, go for a deep clay green paint. It can instantly set a moody scene, as it does in this breakfast nook designed by Nicole Hollis. Shop a similar shade below. Shop Now 12Seaweed by Benjamin MooreTrevor TondroA rich green can work in a variety of spacesfrom a seaside bedroom to a glamorous bar. Film exec Ricky Strauss's Los Angeles home features the latter, with a brass-wrapped bar and high-gloss green paint on the walls and ceiling. Shop a similar shade below. Shop Now Advertisement - Continue Reading Below13Caribbean Teal by Benjamin MoorePaul RaesideSet a royal foundation for your living room with walls painted in a dark teal, as designer Garrow Kedigan did in this traditional space. The mix of blue, gray, and green offers a moody yet calming ambiance. Shop Now 14Calke Green by Farrow & BallMali AzimaA slightly richer take on a traditional green, dark basil green makes an excellent choice for a library or kitchen. Here, designer Melanie Turner used Farrow & Ball's Calke Green to give the library new life. Shop Now Advertisement - Continue Reading Below15Kismet by Backdrop HomeR. Brad KnipsteinPractically a neutral, deep hunter green can add some edge to a white kitchen or powder room. Designer Lynn K. Leonidas used the color on this kitchen island, making the perfect backdrop for handcrafted leather barstools. Shop Now

Repeatedly trying (and failing) to get a great night's sleep can be incredibly frustrating. Whether you've tried layering on cooling bedding, banishing your electronics, choosing the ideal white-noise playlist, or even painting your walls a dark hue, something is always still off. And with the longer nights and shorter amounts of daylight we're experiencing, odds are, your circadian rhythm is out of whack. At this point, you're likely ready to try anything, and if you haven't considered switching up your bed placement so that it's following feng shui principles, you might want to give it a second thought. Feng shui, the ancient Chinese art that promotes balance, peace, and prosperity through a harmonious relationship between people and their environments, has been used for centuries when designing interior spaces. While incorporating feng shui into your bedroom can also involve using a soothing color palette, avoiding mirrors, and adding a plush area rug, one of the biggest elements in the practice is furniture placement. Read on to learn about feng shui bed placement for better energy and a stress-free sleep environment.Related StoriesWhy Does Bed Placement Matter?The position of your bed might be more important than you think. According to feng shui principles, it can affect your mood and ability to rest. Moving your bed into an optimal position for feng shui may help you achieve the following:Get a better night's sleepStress less during the dayFalling asleep and waking up more easilyStabilize your moodFeel a sense of calmAlways: See the DoorIt's important to be able to see your bedroom door from the bed, according to bedroom feng shui principles. However, you don't want the foot of the bed directly in line with the door, because that's called "funeral position"how coffins are often transported out of doors. Instead, position your bed so that there's a sturdy wall behind the headboard and a diagonal or side view of the doorway. This is said to align with our natural instincts. It allows you to see who's entering your private space, adding an extra layer of comfort and peace of mind.Never: Place Your Bed in a CornerYou want three of the four sides of your bed to be open and free for optimal energy flow. This means that you should avoid corners and narrow nooks, no matter how much it may maximize your square footage. Leaving three sides open makes you feel less claustrophobic and physically freer, and it also makes making the bed a whole lot easier. Related StoryAlways: Sleep Opposite the BathroomAnother essential feng shui rule is to place your bed on a wall that doesn't border or connect to a bathroom. Basically, you just don't want to have the toilet and your head sharing a wall. This is advisable for many reasons (some obvious), but it also reduces noise when you sleep and is said to be better for you energetically. Never: Sleep Under a WindowHaving your bed against or placed under a window can make you feel more vulnerable since glass is not as solid as a wall. The light brightness and temperature fluctuations by a window can intrude on restful sleep too. Always: Avoid Sloped Ceilings or BeamsIt's important to not feel claustrophobic in your bedroom. You want to feel like there is space to move, breathe, sleep peacefully, and let energy flow. If you have a bedroom with sloped walls, vaulted ceilings, or ceilings with beams, center as bed as best as you can. Placing your bed where the ceiling is lower can lead to more fitful sleep and reduced energy, according to feng shui principles. You want your sleep space to feel as open and inviting as possible. Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Brie WilliamsIn theory, relaxation is the whole point of a vacation home. In practice, designer Anita Yokota believes dedicating some square footage of your space to restoration and relaxation should be nonnegotiable. To that end, every element she selected for this cocoon-like "recovery room" in our 2024 Whole Home was intended to cultivate a calming environment, most importantly the Harlequin x Henry Holland wallcovering: The blue tones help our brains unwind, reduce our cortisol stress levels, and promote a peaceful atmosphere, Yokota explains. Inspired by clouds, she chose hues, shapes, and furnishings that promote feelings of levity. I wanted it to be a very intentional place for quiet connection. A cream sectional sofa from Wayfair Professional features swivel seats on both ends for ease of conversation. Opposite the sofa, a large-scale lounge chair and mirror triptych anchor the reading corner. A yoga chaise has been slipped in as exercise equipment to promote stretching. Even the lighting has a soothing ethereality: Two bubble-like flush mounts from Visual Comfort & Co. float overhead, while sconces are hung symmetrically outside a shallow alcove with display shelving designed by Architectural Grille. The lack of windows was, in this case, a plus: Its the perfect spot for a rejuvenating nap. Short and restful breaks are essential to sustainable productivity, Yokota says. The goal of any vacation is to come back refreshed. The blue tones help our brains unwind, reduce our stress levels, and promote a peaceful atmosphere.Recovery RoomArchitectural Grille created art panels illustrating wind for the walls and brass shelves to hold greenery and art. Pillow fabrics and wallcovering: Harlequin x Henry Holland. Furniture: Wayfair Professional. Rug: Fibreworks. Light fixtures: Visual Comfort & Co. Paint: Parma Gray (ceiling), Farrow & Ball. Art: Claire Duda, Jessica C Nugent, and Baumbirdy, all from Minted. Brie WilliamsBrie WilliamsIn the cozy reading corner, Yokota added a triptych of mirrors to create the appearance of light in the windowless room. Furniture and accessories: Wayfair Professional. Art: Jinseikou, from Minted. Floor lamp: Visual Comfort & Co.A yoga chaise looks like extra seating but is actually designed for stretching. Furniture and accessories: Wayfair Professional. Art: Debra Pruskowski, Melissa Walls, Jennifer Hallock, Creo Study, Marabou Design, and Phrosne Ras, all from Minted.Podcast RoomBrie WilliamsA small concrete space off of the recovery room gets recast as a recording studio. The wonderful thing about podcasting is self-expression of your thoughts, stories, and ideas. Its a therapeutic and creative outlet, Yokota says. Sofa and draperies: Wayfair Professional. Tables: Serena & Lily. Rug: Fibreworks. Wallcovering: Spoonflower. Paint: Chinese Blue (ceiling molding), Farrow & Ball. Art: Alison Jerry, from Minted. Lamps: Visual Comfort & Co.RECOVERY ROOMPillow fabrics and wallcovering: Harlequin x Henry Holland. Furniture and accessories: Wayfair Professional. Rug: Fibreworks. Light fixtures: Visual Comfort & Co. Paint: Parma Gray (ceiling), Farrow & Ball. Art: Claire Duda, Jessica C Nugent, Baumbirdy, Jinseikou, Debra Pruskowski, Melissa Walls, Jennifer Hallock, Creo Study, Marabou Design, and Phrosne Ras, all from Minted.PODCAST ROOMSofa and draperies: Wayfair Professional. Tables: Serena & Lily. Rug: Fibreworks. Wallcovering: Spoonflower. Paint: Chinese Blue (ceiling molding), Farrow & Ball. Art: Alison Jerry, from Minted. Lamps: Visual Comfort & Co. Explore Whole Home 2024Living-Dining RoomDane Austin DesignKitchenKelsey Leigh InteriorsReading RoomAnne McDonald DesignLoungeRajni Alex DesignGame RoomMA AllenPrimary BedroomHeidi Woodman InteriorsEn Suite SpacesID.ologyGuest & PlayroomByron Ridson Interiors StudioHome TherapyOutdoor SpacesCurated NestHome GymIron House Design

Picture Central Park in the spring, with cherry blossoms flowering and lush grass growing under the shining sun. Now imagine interiors inspired by those seasonal sights. Thats exactly what Samantha Stathis Lynch did while designing her clients apartment on New York's Upper East Side, only one block away from the famous park. Theres nothing more uplifting than seeing the first pops of vibrant green shoot up in the center of the gray city, says the founder of the New Jersey-based studio Samantha Ware Interior Design.Kirsten FrancisSamantha Ware, DesignerInitially, the clients enlisted Stathis Lynch to give the post-war Manhattan apartment, with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, a cosmetic makeover packed with color and pattern. While there was nothing wrong with the apartment to begin with, it lacked personality and was essentially a blank canvas with white walls, white cabinets, and simple bathrooms, says Stathis Lynch. But as the process went on, a kitchen renovation became a necessity because the existing cabinets were made of melamine and nearly impossible to paint. They needed to be replaced.Adding a kitchen renovation meant the project took a few extra months, but it also meant they were able to tweak the layout to maximize every inch of the 1,400-square-foot space. The star of the new cook space is the fresh cabinetry fabricated by Iron Oak and painted in Shasta Daisy by Portola Paints. When I gave the cabinet makers the color, they looked at me like I was crazy, says Stathis Lynch. But the first time they walked into the space when the kitchen was fully installed and the furniture was in, they said it was the happiest apartment they'd ever been in!Related StoriesThroughout the rest of the home, Stathis Lynch brought in additional bright yellows, shades of lavender, soft pinks, and natural greens. The living room is anchored by a floral Nanimarquina rug and an apple green velvet sectional, while a soft sage green grasscloth wallpaper creates a restful atmosphere in the primary bedroom. The client requested that the office, which doubles as a second bedroom, be an uplifting space with the ability to stimulate creativity, says Stathis Lynch. Maison C wallpaper wraps around the room, while a plush, dusty pink, velvet sleeper sofa offers the perfect place to relax with a book.The result marks a huge shift in the apartments design history, a stark contrast to its last version. With the soft, pastel pink of the cherry blossoms in full bloom comes hope and a sense of renewal, which I wanted to emulate, says Stathis Lynch.EntrywayKirsten Francis The client and I absolutely fell in love with this piece, says Stathis Lynch of the wall art by Marcy Cook Vreeland. It encompassed all of the colors in the designs, and the abstract floral spoke to the apartment's Central Park inspiration.Table: Made Goods. Lamp: Vaughn Designs.Living RoomKirsten FrancisBecause there was only one central living space in this apartment, we knew that the sectional needed to be a showstopper, so we opted for a vibrant apple green, says Stathis Lynch.Sofa: Lee Industries, in Holland & Sherry velvet. Paint: Tailor Tack, Farrow & Ball. Ceiling light: Visual Comfort. Throw pillows: Schumacher. Vintage coffee table: Chairish.KitchenKirsten FrancisKirsten FrancisI designed the cabinetry to have a frame-like appearance, which is night-lighted by Portola Paintss cheery Shasta Daisy, says Stathis Lynch.Ceiling light: Urban Electric. Runner: Jennifer Manners. Counters: White Danby Marble. Hardware: purchased via Stoffer Home. Tiles: Artistic Tile.Dining NookKirsten FrancisA custom banquette by Stitch Room and a pair of Julian Chichester chairs, both in Serena Dugan fabric, surround the white Sunpan dining table and carry the kitchen cabinetrys sunny yellow shade into the cozy corner.Powder RoomKirsten FrancisThe Voutsa wallpaper with illustrations of earrings paired with the soft lavender mirror from Fleur Home offers a bit of whimsy in the small space. A single sconce by designer Mark D. Sikes for Hudson Valley Lighting adds sophistication.Primary BedroomKirsten Francis "In an effort to create a restful yet vibrant primary bedroom, soft sage green grasscloth paper envelops the space," says Stathis Lynch, adding that the Thibaut wallpaper contrasts "the custom elongated headboard upholstered in Matisse-inspired Pierre Frey fabric."Headboard: custom by Stitch Room, in Pierre Frey fabric. Curtains: Galbraith & Paul. Nightstands: Made Goods. Yellow chair and ottoman: Julian Chichester, in George Spencer velvet. Bedding: Matouk.OfficeKirsten FrancisKirsten FrancisWe let the wallpaper dictate the colors and pulled out the tones from the beautiful blush roses and wine-colored fruits, says Stathis Lynch. We opted for a Merlot-colored rug and blush pink sofa to bring those to the forefront of the space.Wallpaper: Maison C. Rug: Patterson Flynn. Sofa: Lee Industries, in Holland & Sherry velvet. Desk: Villa & house. Desk chair: Modern History. Mirror: Vaughn Designs. Desk lamp: Penny Morrison. Side table: Made Goods. Table lamp: Vaughn Designs. Ottomans: custom.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Iron House Design team Jim and Tanya Ryno believe carving out space for a gym is key in a secondary home, but it has to feel like an extension of the house. If its more inviting, youll use it, says Tanya. While clients increasingly request wellness-focused additions like plunge pools and saunas, these take up a lot of room alongside cardio equipment. Since space was at a premium in our 2024 Whole Home, they maximized half of the garage by setting up mini circuit zones for strength training and cardio. The elliptical machine and treadmill were both positioned to face out. Opening the doors can transform a typical garage gym into an inspiring space, letting in fresh air and a view that energizes you. It also extends your workout area to the driveway, allowing room for more dynamic movementsperfect for shaking up your routine and staying motivated, she says.I ask people to put something up that means something to themsomething motivational and personal.These days, the couple typically work on state-of-the-art facilities from the ground up. But theyre also firm believers that anyone with some extra square footage can carve out a workout zone thats not just functional but aesthetically motivational, too. Case in point: With some key foundational items, core pieces of equipment, and select storage elements, they assembled a setup in this vacation home that removes every excuse for skipping a sweat session. Heres how they pulled it offand their tips for how you can, too. 1. Make It Luxe Brie Williams When a workout space feels luxurious, youll actually want to spend time there. Choose appealing finishes and accessories, like the oiled ash weights by PENT (that also offers great grip) or Volares neutral color range of resistance bands, to help keep the space tidy and beautiful. 2. Consider multiuse machinesBrie WilliamsThe Technogym treadmill can transition for different HIIT workouts, while the Power Plate MOVE is a platform that vibrates: You can do body weight exercises on it in a very small footprint, Jim says.3. Turn It UpSamsung Music FrameInvest in a high-quality sound system to really getand keep you moving. The Samsung Music Frame is wireless and doubles as changeable wall art; a built-in 3D speaker offers incredible sound in a petite package. Music increases your endurance, your motivation, your power output, Jim sayslike a trainer in the form of a playlist. 4. Keep It NeatBrie Williams expand=Literally and visually, we mean. Storageand a place to set down your phone and water bottleis overlooked, explains Tanya. The garage features a wall unit of organizational shelving from The Container Store. Crafted with durable materials, the Elfa Garage+ system provides smart open, closed, and pull-out storage (on casters!) that keeps workout gear, garden essentials, and everyday garage items neat and accessible. Its the perfect unit to keep everything off the floor and to put stuff away, HOME GYMArt: Jaqui Falkenheim, from Minted. Mirror and Bench: Wayfair. Paint: Blackened, Farrow & Ball. Accessories: Wayfair.Explore Whole Home 2024Living-Dining RoomDane Austin DesignKitchenKelsey Leigh InteriorsReading RoomAnne McDonald DesignLoungeRajni Alex DesignGame RoomMA AllenPrimary BedroomHeidi Woodman InteriorsEn Suite SpacesID.ologyGuest & PlayroomByron Ridson Interiors StudioHome TherapyOutdoor SpacesCurated NestHome GymIron House Design

Every year, we search the country for the next place we want to go and tell a great design story. We might be drawn to a beautiful location or a sensational city or just a spot that everybody is talking about. For our seventh annual Whole Home, we headed to the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, to an area situated between the art-filled town of Asheville and the quaint city of Hendersonville. We were drawn here by everything wed heard about the region: the outstanding culinary scene (believe the hype), a tantalizing claim to having the most breweries per capita (youll never be thirsty), and proximity to the iconic Biltmore Estate (a must-visit on any trip to this Appalachian region). We stuck around for the vibrant local art scene, the majestic views, and the exceptional salty chocolate chip cookies from a local bakery, The Rhu, that turned this avowed chocolate hater into a woman obsessed.This years house was built in partnership with Sean Sullivan of Living Stone Design + Build, the 2023 National Custom Home Builder of the Year and Laura Sullivanhis wifeof ID.ology Interiors & Design, along with 11 other amazing design teams from across the country. Their mandate was to celebrate the joys of owning a vacation home and making space for downtime. What we didnt expect and could never have predicted was that, on our final day there, Hurricane Helene would descend on this region of western North Carolina and uproot this amazing area. When the storm passed and the sun came out, the House Beautiful team, which was staying in downtown Asheville, had lost access to water, cell service, and Wi-Fi, but was otherwise okay. With no way to communicate with the outside world, we were unaware of the devastation just a few miles away. We didnt know that the restaurant in the River Arts District that we had raved about two days before was gone (along with much of the district itself) or that the famed Biltmore Village was underwater. We didnt know that people were trapped in their homes or about the lives lost to the storm. We were among the lucky ones.Our 4,000-square-foot mountain contemporary, located at the top of a windy hill, still stands, but so many others in the region do not. Our hope is always to inspire you with great design ideas, but this time we have a different goal: to help the people of this magnificent area rebuild. And when the time is right, we urge you to visit. We promise, it wont just be those cookies that make you want to stay forever.HURRICANE HELENE RELIEF AND RESOURCE GUIDE This story will be featured in the November/December 2024 Issue of House Beautiful, which will hit newsstands on November 26.Brie WilliamsThis years energy-efficient home is in the conservation-minded community of Sprout, located on a private nature preserve in Hendersonville, North Carolina. The homes interiors are kept comfortable with Trane heating and cooling. Outdoor rockers: Serena & Lily. Exterior paint: Pantalon and Off-Black, Farrow & Ball.Explore Whole Home 2024Living-Dining RoomDane Austin DesignKitchenKelsey Leigh InteriorsReading RoomAnne McDonald DesignLoungeRajni Alex DesignGame RoomMA AllenPrimary BedroomHeidi Woodman InteriorsEn Suite SpacesID.ologyGuest & PlayroomByron Ridson Interiors StudioHome TherapyOutdoor SpacesCurated NestHome GymIron House DesignMeet the DesignersRajni AlexRajni Alex DesignMA AllenMA Allen InteriorsDane AustinDane Austin DesignErin Coren and Lina GalvoCurated Nest InteriorsKelsey LeighKelsey Leigh Design Co.Anne McDonaldAnne McDonald DesignByron RidsonByron Ridson Interior Design StudioJill Randolph and Laura K. SullivanID.ology Interiors & DesignTanya RynoIron House DesignHeidi WoodmanHeidi Woodman InteriorsAnita YokotaHome TherapyOur many thanks to all the teams that made this project a reality.All of these tradespeople live and work in this region and all of them were affected by this storm. Thank you for the true hustle it took to get this done. Sean and Laura Sullivan, thank you for going all in on this, building green before it was the thing to do, truly caring about the planet and being a real champion for your community. Sarah Caldwell and Jill Jones, you were our chief get-it-done team. Truly leading the charge and being okay with being harassed by us daily. We appreciate everything you did. Chris Culler, without your guidance and expertise in managing permits we would have never gotten there. Thank you for pitching in at every step of this process. Matthew Jones and Will Hewitt, it felt like you two were there every day to make sure this project kept moving towards our completion date. Thank you for managing all the trades to get this done. To the gentleman we fondly call Blackstone, you are your own full-service team and the ultimate problem solver. No one will ever know all the many solutions and random projects you managed for us. To everyone involved in this house, we truly thank you for taking time out to bring this idea to reality. From our wallpaper installers who worked through the weekend to the painters that were there when we left and when we arrived every day, you are all true professionals. Thank you to our 2024 Whole Home brand partners: Architectural Grille, Fabricut, Farrow & Ball, Feeney Railings, Fibreworks, Hunter Douglas, Lee Industries, Minted, Monogram, Harlequin, Serena & Lily, Spoonflower, The Container Store, Trane, Visual Comfort & Co., and Wayfair Professional.Committed to the principle of helping everyone live beautifully at home, House Beautiful has also partnered with Wellness Within Your Walls, an internationally recognized resource group created to provide education and guidance on toxins in the living environment. Builder: Living Stone Design + BuildPhotographer: Brie WilliamsStylist: Lucy BammanExecutive Content Editor: Jess TevesCreative Director: Nicolas NeubeckRelated Story

Phil MansfieldFor the first time since its launch in 2018, the Kingston Design Connection hosted its annual Kingston Design Showhouse outside of Kingston, New York and it was a triumphant celebration of community. Twelve designers were brought in to transform a two story colonial style house nestled on Main Street in Stone Ridge, New York as a way to showcase the abundance of creative talent that Upstate New York has to offer. Though the house has undergone a gut renovation, it is still obviously full of history. The gorgeous light fixture that welcomes you into the home was there before the overhaul and has been refurbished. (The original owner's grandchild was reunited with this sentimental piece as a result of this event.) A custom wallpaper featuring a crimson rendering of the home was found throughout the house and turned into an art piece as an ode to the homes past. The front landscaping, a beautiful tribute to Scott Zimmer of Zimmer Gardens late mother, even features some of the original stones that lined the driveway. As expected, older homes come with their own set of quirks. One I particularly enjoyed was the way each designer chose to incorporate the radiators into their spaces by simply disguising them with a different Benjamin Moore paint.In order to bring the 19th century house into the present, designers called on local artisans and makers from Stone Ridge and its surrounding areas. Andrea Hutchman of Poppy Interiors, who flew in from LA to participate in the show, included locally sourced mirrors, ceramics, and a custom dining table in her punchy dining room. For a suite meant for the imagined lady of the house, design team Damour Drake chose to commission a custom china cabinet from local woodsmith Joseph Canelos of Canelos Studios to house delicate pieces made by Helen Prior of Hudson Valley, New York. The primary bath was built out with custom designs by the team at Studio Hinterland, complete with a built-in vanity featuring their signature bobble design Theres also no shortage of art throughout the home, including custom sculptures by participating artist Amanda Russo Rubman proudly on display in the second floor stairwell; Shana Luther Interiors intricate back porch floor mural, painted freehand by Marcie Paper; and the striking paintings by Jean Benoit that adorn the bordeaux-drenched walls of NJA Interiors Rosewood Water Lily bathroom. As in most show houses, the designers got a chance to let looseimplementing wishlist ideas theyve been pining to try. In the moody yet inviting kitchen, Alison Zavracky of Alison Zavracky Design Studio finally got her chance to install a curved marble backsplash. Leah Beswick, founder and principal designer of Casalore, developed her Japanese forest bathing inspired sanctuary around an ornate red daybed she had found on her travels and kept in storage for years in hopes of using it one day. Jessica Lynn Williams of Hendley & Co. got to live out her angsty teenage dreams in a playful, pattern wrapped Country Goth Parlor, creating a sitting room full of pieces she and her younger self would appreciate, complete with a pinboard bar top.Below, a full tour of the Kingston Designer Show House.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below1The Front DoorPhil MansfieldAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below2Dining Room by Poppy InteriorsPhil MansfieldAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below3Home Office by KD ReidPhil MansfieldAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below4The primary bedroom by Krishna FitzpatrickPhil MansfieldAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below5Primary Bathroom by Studio HinterlandPhil MansfieldAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below6Morning Room by Damour DrakePhil MansfieldAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below7Hall Bathroom by NJA InteriorsPhil MansfieldAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below8Meditation Room by CasolarePhil Mansfield

Go with your gut, to thine own self be true, let your freak flag fly: You've probably heard some variation of this message fairly consistency since, well, nursery school. And yes, you should absolutely follow your heart when it comes to your home, it is possible for your heart to steer you in the wrong direction. That's where the experts come in. And trust us when we tell you that interior designers have a lot to say, especially about the common mistakes they see clients make while decorating their homes. While you are of course entitled to your own opinion about a the current crop of design trends, there are certain things that, in the opinions of professionals, are objectively incorrect. Scroll down to see what these egregious errors are, according to designersand don't shoot the messenger.Related StoriesRugs Too Small for the SpacePeskyMonkey//Getty ImagesIf you've ever had a rug that was too dinky for its intended spaceand you realized that fact the moment you unrolled it, but kept it anywaythis one's for you. One of the biggest mistakes I see is rugs that are too small for a room, explains Gideon Mendelson.He wasn't the only designer who agreed with this point. Rugs should be grounded under a grouping of furniture, not floating in the middle of a room or solely placed under a coffee table, Meghan Jay adds. It's counterintuitive, but having a larger rug instantly makes a room feel more spaciousand more cozy! Gillian Segal echoes this statement, saying to always size up if you're unsure because it'll make the space feel more balanced.Related StoriesLightbulbs in a Variety of TemperaturesRoom lighting is always a hot topic, especially with all the Gen Z discourse lately about the Big Light. However, it's not just where the light is coming from that's a problem; it's the temperature of the bulbs. This is such a small thing, but clients often have light bulbs that are in a variety of temperatures, Jay says. It feels off when you walk into a room and there's one fixture casting a cold light while the others feel warm. The Chicago designer suggests sticking with consistent Kelvins (that's the measurement of the color temperature, and it's noted on lightbulb packaging), playing around with the intensity, and even getting dimmers to fix this issue.Related StoryA Room Without AccessoriesYes, big ticket purchases like sofas and bed frames are a necessity, but that doesn't make the smaller details less important to a beautiful space. Jay explains that many clients often lack that final layer of accessories, leaving the home feeling bareit's the styling pieces and artwork that give a room a unique, personal, and complete feeling. I realize that purchasing accessories, particularly artwork, can be intimidating or might feel unnecessary to some. But it truly makes a room feel well rounded and characterful, she says. I encourage my clients to purchase pieces that they love and to bring out heirloom pieces that have been tucked away.Poor Sense of ScaleAlmost every designer I spoked to mentioned that people are often unable to properly recognize the scale of a room. As a result, people choose furniture that's either too large or too small. "Scale can be tricky," says Jay. John Stivale of Stivale Graffam Home and Gideon Mendelson focus on the larger furnishings. Mendelson says that people generally use too much furniture to begin with. This result is that spaces feel cramped and off-balance, Stivale adds, and the mini rugs don't help. Try a few larger, heavier pieces with some smaller, more elegant items to balance it out, Mendelson suggests. Stival suggests carefully measuring the space and mapping out the layout for optimum flow before purchasing anything.Jerel Lakepart of House Beautiful's 2024 Next Wave classpoints out that scale matters in the smaller things too, specifically cabinet hardware. Instead of selecting the same hardware for all drawers and cabinet doors, play with different arrangements on upper and lower cabinets, Lake says. Not only would a single small knob feel lost on a larger cabinet door, but sticking with the same shape and scale of hardware for every part of your kitchen leaves the space feeling flat. Sloppy Painting SkillsKseniya Ovchinnikova//Getty ImagesPainting the walls is one of those things that a lot of homeowners think they can do themselvesbut should they? Dan Mazzarini of BHDM Design doesn't think so. When it comes to painting, execution is as important as intent. If youre not a great painter, hire one! he exclaims. If you can't do something well, then it might not be worth saving a few bucks up front when you're likely going to have to hire someone to fix your mistake anyway. No matter how creative or beautiful your accent wall is, there is nothing worse than sloppy corners, he says. Making Buying Decisions Too QuicklyIf you needed a reason to embrace the slow decorating style, let this be your sign. With sites like Amazon and Wayfair promising fast delivery, it's so simple to just add to cart. While that's also exactly why we love those sites, it means a lot of homes end up feeling lifeless and bland. I think its a common mistake that people think they need to buy everything new, Segal says. Vintage pieces and found objects add character and personality to your space. On the vintage note, Dan Mazzarini adds that people often dont take the time to shop around and understand the true value of a piece before buying. He explains that negotiating and making offers is all part of the decorating processyou'll get an added feeling of accomplishment when you take home that dining table that you fought tooth and nail for. Choosing Matching Furniture Setslaughingmango//Getty ImagesThere's a reason people still love matching furniture sets: They take the work out of the decorating process. When you buy something you know will look good together, then you don't have to stretch your creativity. However, Segal says this is one of the biggest design mistakes a person can make. Variety is the spice of life, and it never feels welcoming when it looks like you have all the items from one collection in your space, she says. Finding individual pieces that all look good togetherbut don't necessarily matchis what brings character to a home. Improperly Placed Curtains If you move, you're probably going to have to buy new curtains or blinds for your place. The length and height of your windows, not to mention their shape, means you can't just repurpose your old curtains for your new place. And as annoying as it may be to switch out your perfectly fine drapes because the length simply doesn't work in your new living room or dining area, designer Samantha Struck emphasizes the importance of having properly installed curtains. We have seen them installed in all sorts of strange ways, and the room would look so great if they were properly placed, she says. Don't let yourself get hung up on this common mistakejust get new curtains.Hanging Artwork and TVs Too HighWhen mounting artworks and a TV on the wall, lots of people aim for spot that's well above their line of vision. Art should be at eye levelroughly 57 to 60 inches from the floor to the center of the piece," says Steven Graffam of Stivale Graffam Home. Similarly, mounting the TV too high, like above a fireplace, forces people to strain their necks, he explains. TVs should also be hung at your seated eye level for the most comfortable viewing experience. Too Many ElectronicsAny designophile or frequent watcher of HGTV can tell you that designers have a lot of thoughts when it comes to displaying televisions. Chrissy Jones will tell you that it's electronics as a whole she takes issue with. Having too many electronics and items on display can make the space feel cluttered and chaotic. "As humans, we naturally accumulate 'things,' but when too much is left out, it can create visual clutter that disrupts a sense of peace," Jones says.The fix for this one is to make choices that prioritize functionality and a sense of calm. Oh and, bring in the professionals. Even if you don't want a full decorating overhaul of your home, you can hire a designer to simply help you visualize how things could, even just an overview. "Ultimately, it's about achieving high-end simplicitydesigning spaces that are elegant, functional, and bring a sense of balance to daily life," Jones adds.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

For Kate Marker, an Illinois-based interior designer and the author of The Love Of Home, saying goodbye to her 10,000-square-foot countryside home outside of Chicago was not as hard as she thought it would be. The sprawling estate on acres of land was a real estate jackpot, but Marker was more than ready to downsize. And she had her eye on a historic Cape Cod-style home nearby.Marker had long admired the 3,000-square-foot, four-bedroom, five-bathroom house in Barrington Village, a Chicago suburb. When the property came on the market, she pounced, though her initial plan was to flip it. It was one of those houses that I saw a ton of potential in, she says. Marker soon realized that bringing the house to its fullest potential meant selecting finishes, materials, and accents that she would want in her own home. I realized that creating a home that I would personally love to live in was the true path to achieving my vision for it. Related StoriesThe Love of Home: Interiors for Beauty, Balance, and BelongingNow 25% Off$34 at Amazon$34 at WalmartAs the renovation progressed, Marker fell deeper in love. "You discover all these little, special, unique touches that come to life during renovationsthings you hadn't planned from the start," she says. The true turning point came when her contractor vaulted the kitchen ceilings, cracking open a new perspective. "That was when it hit meI could live here," she recalls. From that point on, she made ambitious renovation choices, like transforming the existing garage into a primary suite and adding an upstairs lounge area for her two teenage daughters.Our previous space was so special, says Marker. But, as a family of four, we didn't need all that space. We just wanted a beautiful, charming, welcoming home. And thats exactly what Marker created. EntrywayErin KonrathThe foyer immediately draws you in, offering a glimpse of the homes distinct design. We transformed the foyer into a funky entryway that pays homage to historical charm with checkered floors, wallpaper, and mustard walls, Marker says. The entryway leads into the living room, where custom millwork adorned with Little Greene Paint wallpaper in the insets sets the stage for an eclectic mix of found treasures and pieces from Markers own line, Kate Marker Home.Paint colors: Foyer: Bath Stone by Little Greene Paint. Living Room: Attic II by Little Greene. Wallpaper (bookshelf insets): Little Greene Paint. Millwork fabrication: Warman Construction. Ceiling light: Hudson Valley Lighting. Bench, side table, coatrack, rug: Kate Marker Home. Floor tile: Francois & Co.Living RoomErin KonrathThe light and airy family room showcases one of my favorite elements: the limestone mantel with its elegant, fluted pattern, says Marker.Paint colors: Flint by Little Greene Paint. Ceiling light and sconces: Hudson Valley Lighting. TV: Samsung Frame TV. Fireplace surround: Francois & Co. Armchairs, pillows: Kate Marker Home. Checkered pillows: Kate Marker Home x Ginger Sparrow. Coffee table: Lauren Liess. Rug: Jaipur.The Sitting Room (Pictured Top)Marker used the homes low ceilings to her advantage, making the formal sitting room as cozy as possible. This is one of the largest rooms in the house, and its low ceilings made it easy to create an inviting atmosphere, she says. Paint: Flint by Little Greene Paint. Ceiling light and table lamps: Hudson Valley Lighting. Picture light: Hallstead, Hudson Valley Lighting. Drapery: Barbaras Design Studio. Fabric: Otis Textiles. Art, sofa, accent table: Kate Marker Home. Coffee table: Four Hands. Armchairs: Community Manufacturing. Poufs (left): Lee Industries. Wicker dresser: Worlds Away. Rug: Jaipur.KitchenErin KonrathThe kitchen was originally isolated from the rest of the home, separated by a wall between the kitchen and dining room, Marker explains. To transform the space, she removed the wall, seamlessly blending the dining and cooking areas. Now, the kitchen not only serves as the heart of the home, where countless meals and memories are shared, but its also literally at the center, acting as a walk-through between the dining room and the back family room. "The kitchen used to feel so closed off, with just a narrow entry point," she says. It was really important to me to pass through the kitchen to get to other spaces in the home.With the vision of a modern French bistro in mind, Marker set out to transform the space with lower white-oak cabinetry and upper cabinets painted in Oxford Stone by Farrow & Ball and accented with Armac Martin hardware. The cabinetry is complemented by honed Calacutta Fior marble by Caliastone and Tamazula Granite fabrication, creating a subtle tone-on-tone aesthetic.Instead of opting for a large kitchen island, Marker made the most of the available space by choosing a peninsula. Although she typically doesnt favor them, shes thrilled with how this one turned out. It really suits the space perfectly, she says. I love how the ceiling transitions from a low eight feet to 12 feet and then back again, creating an airy pathway and a beautifully symmetrical moment that guides you into the family room.Erin KonrathErin KonrathAfter the kitchen ceilings were vaulted, Marker had to carefully consider her options for illuminating the room. I never do vaulted ceilings with cans, so hanging six Hudson Valley Lighting pendants gave me all the light I needed, she shares.The Ilve range serves as one of the kitchens standout finishing touches, beautifully fabricated with a Meoded plaster. We believe you dont have to sacrifice function for beauty, Marker shares. Erin KonrathPerhaps Markers favorite (and most creative) uses of space in the kitchen is the coffee bar the designer outfitted in her Kate Marker Home tile. Originally, there was a hexagon window next to it, but we updated it with a round window for a more modern touch, she saysPaint color: Flint by Little Greene Paint. Ceiling lights: Hudson Valley Lighting. Cabinetry fabrication: Knapp Kitchens. Cabinet paint: Farrow & Ball. Cabinetry hardware: Armac Martin. Caf curtains: Barbaras Design Studio. Range hood cover fabrication: Warman Construction using Meoded Plaster. Pot filler: California Faucet. Range: Ilve (in ivory/brass). Countertop and backsplash material: Calacutta Fior honed marble by Caliastone and Tamazula Granite fabrication. Art and rug: Kate Marker Home. Picture light: Hudson Valley Lighting. Sink: Barclay.In the coffee nook: Paint colors: Flint by Little Greene Paint. Sconce: Arteriors. Shelving and cabinetry: Knapp Kitchens. Cabinetry paint: Farrow & Ball Oxford Stone. Cabinetry hardware: Armac Martin. Backsplash tile: Kate Marker Home. Countertop material and source: Caliastone, Calacutta Fior honed marble. Espresso machine: Breville.Dining AreaErin KonrathCreating a central spot to dine and chat with my girls, especially as they grow older, was important to me, Marker shares. Our long Haven Dining Table has made this possible, serving both as a focal point and the perfect wood accent piece.Paint: Flint by Little Greene Paint. Ceiling light and sconce: Hudson Valley Lighting. Dining table and rug: Kate Marker Home. Dining chairs and cushions: Century Furniture, Mercer Dining chair with Sien & Co. fabric. Stair runner: Momeni by Eagle Carpet Services.BedroomErin KonrathThe garage was converted into the couples primary suite, one of the more extensive undertakings in the project. From the moment I saw this space, I knew it was destined to be the perfect primary suite, says Marker. The stunning French doors from Simpson Door Company not only flood the room with natural light but also create the illusion of more space, with the added bonus of extending beyond the walls to our private patio.Paint colors: Flint by Little Greene Paint. Ceiling light: Hudson Valley Lighting. Outdoor chairs: Brown Jordan. Drapery: Barbaras Design Studio. Mirror: Gabby Home. Table lamp: Visual Comfort. Pillows and rug: Kate Marker Home. Bedding: Courtney Barton Quilt, Boll & Branch duvet and sheets.Primary BathroomErin KonrathMarker enhanced the homes historic bones by adding in an arched doorway in the primary bathroomleading to a standalone tub by Allure and a white-oak vanity fabricated by Knapp Kitchensto help maintain an open feel. The vintage rug adds a note of texture on The Fine Line tile, bringing together the various tones in the space.Paint color: Flint by Little Greene Paint. Ceiling light: Hudson Valley Lighting. Roman shade: Barbaras Design Studio. Tub: Allure. Plumbing fixtures: Rohl, Michael Berman Collection, Michael Berman Collection. Floor tile: The Fine Line. Rug: Kate Marker Home vintage. Vanity hardware: Armac Martin. Countertop: Honed Grigio Collemandina. Door hardware: Emtek.Reading NookErin KonrathWith two teenage daughters, it was key for Marker to create a space for them to hang out with friends and to do homework. The girls quarters were a fun design challenge for me. Working with low ceilings, we added vertical paneled walls throughout to create the illusion of height. We cozied up the space with our classic poufs, playful light fixtures from Hudson Valley Lighting, Ginger Sparrow pillows, and fun pops of dcor from Kate Marker Home.Paint colors: Flint by Little Greene Paint. Pendant light: Regina Andrew. Built-in fabrication: Warman Construction. Cushion fabric: Material Works, Elana in Vanilla. Pillows: Kate Marker Home. Lamps: Hudson Valley Lighting. Troy Lighting. Poufs: Lee Industries. Fabric: Sanibel Pool.