Some people possess an innate talent for finding gifts on a budget. No matter the occasion (anniversary, Valentine's Day, Mother's Day) or recipient (wife, boyfriend, teens, in-laws), they somehow nail it every time — winning the unofficial "best gift-giver" award among those who are lucky to know them. If you're not the most intuitive gift giver, fear not. We've put together a list of the best gift ideas for under $50. These unique, budget-friendly gifts won't break the bank, and you might even see some solid discounts on them if you're lucky. Opens in a new window Credit: Uncommon Goods Acupressure Tension Release Mat For relieving tension Great for the person who loves trying out the latest alternative therapies, but is perhaps a bit squeamish around needles. Lay on it, roll it up and use it as a pillow, or even stand on it to help relieve tension built up in the body throughout the day. Buying Options $48 from Uncommon Goods Opens in a new window Credit: Crock-Pot Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box For having a hot lunch For that person who has everything. We love this electric lunch box with an internal capacity of 20 ounces, an ideal side for a personal meal portion. Available in four different colors, the stainless steel interior can be removed and washed in the dishwasher. Buying Options See Details Opens in a new window Credit: Nisaku Hori Hori Garden Knife For those who love to garden A beloved tool for anyone who spends all their spare time in the garden. Part knife and part trowel, the stainless steel blade includes measurements so you always have a sense for depth when planting. Plus the serrated side helps tackle tough soil and weeds. Buying Options $29 from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Roku A Roku Express 4K+ For Netflix binge-watchers Mashable contributor Callum Bains called the Roku Express 4K+ a "fast, no-nonsense streaming device with a price to match." (It's our favorite budget media player on the market.) Plug it into a TV's HDMI port for all-in-one entertainment and hands-free voice control. Buying Options $39.99 from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Kasa Kasa Smart Plugs For a quick home upgrade Set a schedule for the living room lights, use the app to turn on the white noise machine in the nursery, or pair with an Alexa device to make them voice-activated. Smart plugs provide greater control over the devices within a home and are a quick and simply way to upgrade a space. Buying Options $29.99 from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: YETI YETI Rambler Stackable Mug For coffee fiends If they frequently take their coffee into the great outdoors, whether that's on their porch or on a camping trip, grab them a Yeti Rambler mug. It's dishwasher-safe and comes in tons of colors, from basic black to fire-engine red. Buying Options $30 from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Dash Heart-shaped waffle maker For cute little breakfasts What's cuter than a tiny heart-shaped waffle maker? A tiny heart-shaped waffle maker with a tiny heart-shaped waffle inside. Breakfast is about to get so adorable — especially when they realize they can make heart-shaped hash browns, too. Buying Options $19.99 from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: JBL Wireless JBL earbuds For daily commuters Who says you have to pay $300 for a decent pair of true wireless earbuds? JBL has proven time and again that it can deliver high-quality audio — and for a lot less than its competitors. These buds are available at Amazon for just a hair under $50, but you can usually grab them for a lot less. Buying Options $49.95 from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Hemlock Park A crackling wood-wick candle For candle-heads These unique candles ditch the standard cotton wicks for wood wicks, and that results in a crackling effect that will remind you of sitting around a campfire. If you're tired of the same old candles, they bring some excitement to the product category. This complex and woodsy scent uses pleasing notes of palo santo wood, myrrh, bergamot, amber, frankincense, and rosewood. Buying Options $24.95 from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Lodge Cast Iron A Lodge cast iron skillet For home chefs Cast iron skillets are the versatile workhorses of any kitchen — they retain heat tremendously well and can be used for almost any dish, from steak to skillet cookies. (They're also durable enough to be used over a campfire, if your recipient's into that.) Lodge's pans come pre-seasoned for immediate use and can last for decades with proper care. Buying Options $26.71 from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Stasher Stasher bags For eco warriors Stasher's popular reusable bags are made from heavy-duty, food-grade silicone that can be frozen, boiled, microwaved, baked, and tossed in the dishwasher. They come in myriad sizes, colors, and shapes, including snack pouches, bowls, and new "beauty bags" for makeup. Buying Options $18.99 from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Wild One / Mashable composite A Wild One Treat Pouch For dog parents "Walkies," but make it fashion. Wild One's Treat Pouch has a hidden compartment for a roll of poop bags and adjustable carrying straps that let you wear it like a crossbody bag or a fannypack. It's available in at least five colors (depending on the season) and overall super stylish — you'd never know it was made from recycled water bottles. Buying Options $44 from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: National Geographic A National Geographic Earth Science Kit For young scientists If you know a kid who goes crazy for science experiments, this STEM gift kit will delight them to no end (and make you their favorite grown-up). It comes with over 15 activities — including crystal growing, building a volcano, and unearthing geological treasures — that are both easy to follow and easy to clean up after. Buying Options $29.99 from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: LEGO A LEGO Orchid building kit For LEGO masters This bestselling kit from LEGO's Botanical Collection for adults builds into a realistic orchid with six large flowers, two newly opened buds, and a fluted pot (complete with some "bark mix" the actual plant would grow in). It contains 608 pieces, so it'll take the better part of an afternoon to assemble. No watering or pruning required! Buying Options $49.99 from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: OXO An OXO Brew Compact Cold Brew Coffee Maker For coffee connoisseurs Starbucks gift cards are a nice gesture, but categorically lame. The Mashable's Choice Award-winning OXO Brew Compact Cold Brew Coffee Maker is a better way to gift someone their next caffeine fix: "[It] pays for itself in one or two brews, and the cold brew concentrate it produces is consistently strong, velvety smooth, and richly flavorful," wrote contributor Sam Stone. Buying Options $34.95 from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Apple An Apple AirTag For forgetters This quarter-sized Bluetooth tracker works seamlessly with the Find My app, which comes pre-installed on iPhones and iPads — super convenient for anyone who's already plugged into the Apple ecosystem. If an item the AirTag is attached to ever gets lost or misplaced, its owner can pull up its last-known location on their device or ask Siri to find it. Buying Options $29 from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: AnotherStudio Houseplant ornaments For plant parents Made by the London-based design company AnotherStudio, these miniature metal ornaments are cute accessories for houseplant pots and terrariums. If you don't think your recipient would be into the mushrooms (available in brass and stainless steel), they also come in impressively detailed animal, flower, and fruit shapes. Buying Options $17.88 from Etsy Opens in a new window Credit: Hearth and Hand Cookbook stand by Hearth & Hand™ with Magnolia For the home chef Cooking from a recipe you found online is great — until you have to keep touching your phone every few minutes to see it. Gift the home chef in your life this aesthetically pleasing stand to give them a much-needed kitchen assist. Built to easily hold a cookbook at reading level, it'll just as easily accommodate a tablet, phone, or 2-in-1 laptop. Buying Options $19.99 from Target Opens in a new window Credit: Piecework Puzzles A Piecework puzzle For puzzlers Mashable's most dedicated puzzle fiends swear by Piecework, which makes unique puzzles out of stunning (and intricately detailed) photos. This 500-piece puzzle won't drive anyone too crazy, but if your puzzle fan loves a challenge, check out the brand's 1,000-piece sets. Buying Options $34 from Piecework Opens in a new window Credit: PetSafe A PetSafe Bolt Automatic Laser Light Cat Toy For cat parents For senior culture reporter Christianna Silva and their feisty cat, Colby Jack, the Mashable's Choice Award-winning PetSafe Bolt "was a godsend...It works reliably, solves a problem, turns off automatically, and is virtually hassle-free." It operates in two modes, so your recipient can control it themselves or set it to a random pattern and have their cat burn off some energy solo. Buying Options $23.95 from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Ninja Vitamix personal-size blender For making smoothies Personal, portable, and extremely adorable — that's the name of the game with this 16-oz travel blender from beloved kitchenware brand Ninja. Ideal for meal prepping the night before or stashing in a cooler for a quick, on-demand smoothie, this is one of those practical gifts that quickly turns into a fun (and did we mention cute?) daily ritual for its recipient. Buying Options $49.88 from Walmart Opens in a new window Credit: Shutterfly A custom Shutterfly photo book For sentimental types Starting around $25, Shutterfly's photo books can be personalized from top to bottom with different layouts, bindings, cover finishes, stickers, and ribbons — it's like scrapbooking on steroids. If you're looking for a gift idea that'll speak from the heart and be cherished for years to come, they're guaranteed to bring a tear to the eye of any parent or significant other. Buying Options See Details Opens in a new window Credit: Le Creuset A Le Creuset Mini Round Cocotte For foodies Yes, you can gift someone a Le Creuset cocotte for less than $50 — a *very small* Le Creuset cocotte, but the point technically still stands. Made from nonstick stoneware that's safe for oven, broiler, microwave, and dishwasher use, the 8-ouncer is a nice size for individual cobblers and pot pie. It's available in colors like Cerise (pictured), Artichaut, Nectar, Chambray, Azure, and more. Buying Options $32 from Le Creuset Opens in a new window Credit: BaBylissPRO A BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Mini Straightening Iron For beauty buffs Ideal for on-the-go touch-ups, this miniature version of BaBylissPRO's premium flat iron can get as hot as 430°F. It features the exact same titanium-ceramic plates as the standard size (only these are half an inch wide), which are designed for even heating and reducing frizz. Buying Options $34.99 from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Clarkson Potter 'What's for Dessert: Simple Recipes for Dessert People' For bakers From "Dessert Person" Claire Saffitz comes this beginner-friendly cookbook with over 100 simple and efficient recipes for sweet treats. (Emphasis on "simple and efficient" — none of them require a stand mixer and only half need a hand mixer.) Entries are accompanied by beautiful retro-style photography and helpful troubleshooting tips. Buying Options $37.50 from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Annapurna Interactive 'Stray' For PlayStation gamers Available for PS4, PS5, and PC (via Steam), "Stray" is a 2022 third-person game that follows an orange tabby cat who's trying to escape a grungy cyberpunk city — and yes, you play as the cat. Mashable tech and games reporter Alex Perry described it as a stunning sci-fi adventure "with a sweet story, endearing characters, and some truly gross art design at times (in the best way)." Buying Options $39.99 from Best Buy Opens in a new window Credit: LIFX A LIFX Color smart bulb For techies LIFX Color smart bulbs are vibrant and easy to install — and unlike the Philips Hue variety, they don't require a bridge or a hub to work with WiFi. Mashable contributor RJ Andersen has replaced about half the bulbs in their house with these things: "Would I recommend [LIFX bulbs] to anyone looking to tip-toe into smart lighting? Absolutely," they said. Buying Options $39.99 from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Stanley A Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler For hip sippers TikTok's favorite reusable drinking vessel is a 40-ounce, travel-friendly tumbler with a removable straw, a comfort-grip handle, and an insulated, stainless steel body that can keep drinks iced for up to 40 hours. It comes in a bunch of trendy colors, including some limited-edition ones that'll earn you some extra cool points. Buying Options $45 from REI Opens in a new window Credit: Kenneth Bachor / Mashable A Death Digital fisheye lens For amateur videographers Death Digital's fisheye iPhone lens makes it possible to recreate the unique style of '90s music and skateboarding videos with your smartphone. It earned our Mashable's Choice Award for its durable build quality and user-friendliness: "For under $50, it’s a great timeless accessory that’s small and easy to throw in your pocket," wrote contributor Kenneth Bachor. Buying Options $45 from Death Digital Opens in a new window Credit: Nintendo Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack For Nintendo Switch gamers Nintendo's premium membership tier unlocks online play, libraries of classic retro games, cloud saves, and access to select DLCs. (That includes 48 additional courses for "Mario Kart 8 Deluxe" and the "Happy Home Paradise" expansion for "Animal Crossing: New Horizons.") A year-long individual plan comes in just under $50, which is easily one of the best deals in gaming. Buying Options $49.99 from Nintendo Opens in a new window Credit: Yonanas A Yonanas soft-serve machine For ice cream lovers The Yonanas is a borderline brilliant kitchen gadget from Dole that can successfully turn frozen fruit into a smooth, soft serve-adjacent dessert — a great gift for regular ice cream eaters who want to switch things up, *or* anyone who follows a vegan, keto, or dairy-free diet. Another Mashable Choice Award-winner, it "seriously impressed" contributor Michelle Rostamian. Buying Options $49.99 from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Necessaire Necessaire body wash For pampering This eucalyptus-scented body wash from the trendy brand Necessaire is the perfect "fancy-version-of-a-staple" gift. (That's also why we're suggesting the large pump bottle.) There are also exfoliators, serums, and body lotions available, just in case you want to make it a set. Buying Options $38 from Amazon Opens in a new window Credit: Bloomscape A high-tech mister For advanced plant care For plant parents who really go the extra mile, the Mossify Mistr sprays a "continuous fine mist" to keep humidity-favoring plants happy. Think spray bottle, but fancy: This is great for the person who likes to have a USB-compatible version of everything. Buying Options $50 from Bloomscape

Perks: Hot tub, mountain view, swimmable pondThe Catskill Mountains are known for having a plethora of intimate, rustic lodgings, and the Willow Treehouse doesn’t disappoint. The modern build of the tree house was designed by Antony Gibbon and built by William Johnson. The huge floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room and bedroom overlook the woods and the swimmable pond. Plus there’s a full kitchen with a modern aesthetic, if your travel crew likes to prep at home. Don’t forget to soak in the wood-burning hot tub. From $456 per night.BOOK NOWCozy TreehouseLocation: Sanbornton, New HampshirePerks: Shared beach access, snowmobile trails, grillThe Cozy Treehouse, planted 12 feet in the air inside New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, is made from a mixture of reclaimed materials, and features plumbing, heating, a full bathroom, and a kitchenette with a medium-size fridge. Get back to nature by firing up the outdoor grill while relaxing in some Adirondack chairs. Plus, if the outside world beckons during your getaway, there’s Wi-Fi available in this unique tree house. From $418 per night.BOOK NOWRyders TreehouseLocation: Baird, TexasPerks: Screened-in porch, waterfront location, fireplaceIf you’re looking for a vacation rental in the Lone Star state, consider a trip to Baird, where the Ryders Treehouse instantly captivates with an outdoor spiral staircase that leads up to a plush bedroom and well-stocked screened kitchen. The outdoor offerings are just as cozy in this two-story tree house: Relax in the hammock or on the porch swing that hangs from the sturdy branch of one of the many live oak trees that surround the property. From $474 per night.BOOK NOWTreefLoft at Base CampLocation: Perryville, MissouriPerks: Deck, rain shower, bathtubFor a design-focused treehouse experience, consider TreeLoft at BaseCamp. A skylight just above the king-size bed allows for nocturnal sky gazing with a remote solar shade to keep you sleeping in the wee morning hours. There’s a rain shower for two in the walk-through bathroom, a relaxing soaking tub, and plush robes for your comfort. The kitchen offers an indoor-outdoor coffee bar and tiny appliances for all your cooking needs. Outside you’ll find a hot tub placed next to towering, eastern, red cedar trees with a privacy fence, a separate deck for grilling or nesting in the trees, and a firepit below with ambient lighting for s’mores or storytelling to make this a one-of-a-kind experience. From $587 per night.BOOK NOWHeartland TreehouseLocation: Langlois, OregonPerks: Outdoor tubs, sauna, outdoor kitchenIf your idea of relaxation is spending time in the great outdoors soaking in a tub, then the Heartland Treehouse, in Oregon, is your spot. The wooden deck is outfitted with white side-by-side tubs with an elegant candelabra in the middle. The outside is just as cozy as the inside, as the treehouse has built-in benches and a firepit in the middle for ultimate woodsy vibes. From $228 per night.BOOK NOWLuxury Treehouse with Views of the SierrasLocation: Visalia, CaliforniaPerks: Mountain view, shared outdoor pool, barbequeFor a modern, design-forward tree house experience, look no further than this luxury treehouse with views of the Sierra, resting just steps away from a 300-acre almond farm. The treehouse bedroom has a beautiful wooden bed frame with a Casper mattress and a cozy fireplace for cool evenings. Take nature walks around the area that could lead to chance encounters with opossums, red-tailed hawks, owls, and red foxes. From $268 per night.BOOK NOWThe Sanctuary TreehouseLocation: Cobb, Califonia

As Country Living’s Senior Homes Editor, I spend a lot of time looking at homes, so let me share a little bit of advice: Whether it is special landscaping or a happily painted front door, every home needs an exterior element to give it personality. The quickest way to accomplish that? An interesting exterior color palette. But we understand that painting a home’s exterior (or choosing a new color of siding) is a big investment both of money and time, so you want to make a color decision that know you’re going to love for years to come. When picking the best paint color for your home, there are lots of things to take into consideration such as architectural style, the setting and light situation, and your region. You also need to decide if you’d rather keep it simple and classic with a white or neutral color, or take a bold approach with a deeper shades like green or blue. Below, I’ve gathered up 10 paint colors designers and homeowners alike love for home exteriors that are guaranteed to stand the test of time. (And, if you want even more exterior paint color inspiration, here are 35 more exterior paint colors ideas.)Looking for more curb appeal ideas? Check out these stories. 1Wythe Gold by Benjamin MooreErin KellyDesigner-architect duo Liz and Greg Dutton chose this soft yellow shade for their historic Ohio farmhouse because it mimics the landscape’s flowering goldenrod. Buttery warm yellows are definitely trending, but their nostalgia factor keeps them feeling timeless. Get the Look:Exterior Paint Color: Wythe Gold by Benjamin MooreTOUR THIS HOUSERELATED: These 80 Tiny Homes are Small in Size, but Big in Charm2Blueberry by Benjamin MooreRead McKendreePerfect for coastal homes or darling cottages, this true blue is quintessentially charming, which is exactly why designer Katie Rosenfeld chose it for this Maine getaway.Get the Look:For similar, Exterior Paint Color: Blueberry by Benjamin MooreRELATED: Our Best Beach House Decorating IdeasAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below3Rustic Red by Sherwin-WilliamsAdam Albright for Country LivingCherry reds might be trending this year, but we say they are a classic choice for country-style cottages and cabins any year, especially for homes near the water. This lake home’s bright red shade feels perfectly pleasant against a verdant, woodsy backdrop. Get the Look:Exterior Paint Color: Rustic Red by Sherwin-WilliamsTOUR THIS HOUSE4White Dove by Benjamin MooreJane BeilesIn search of a timeless, somewhat creamy white to match your equally timeless architecture? Then the designer favorite, White Dove by Benjamin Moore, is just what you need. Take palette inspiration from antiques dealer Ali Mahon, who paired her Connecticut barn home’s crisp white exterior with a poppy red door. Talk about timeless!Get the Look:Exterior Paint Color: White Dove by Benjamin MooreFront Door Paint Color: Spanish Red by Benjamin MooreAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below5Night Watch by GliddenBrie Williams, styling by Elizabeth DemosThe perfect camp green is hard to find, but luckily homeowner Kelly Gray did the legwork. Her Georgia lake cabin is clad in this deep green that is nicely offset with crisp white trim to give the exterior the ultimate summer camp appeal. Get the Look:Exterior Paint Color: Night Watch by Glidden TOUR THIS HOUSE6Evening Hush by BehrBrie Williams for Country LivingWhile I’m a staunch believer that gray paint should be used sparingly, Bambi Costanzo’s West Virginia cottage, painted a steely blue-gray shade by Behr, proves it does have star power. White trim keeps the look crisp.Get the Look:Exterior Paint Color: Evening Hush by BehrTOUR THIS HOUSEAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below7Black Bean Soup by Benjamin MooreBrian Woodcock for Country LivingWhile stain is always an option, there’s something charming about the opaque look of painted wood. In this Alabama farmhouse, artist-meets-farmer Kelly Bentley Ash chose designer-favorite Black Bean Soup from Benjamin Moore to complement the shining tin roof. It also makes a great backdrop to have fun with a unexpected front door color.Get the Look:Exterior Paint Color: Black Bean Soup by Benjamin MooreTOUR THIS HOUSERELATED: Get More of Our Top Brown Paint Colors To Use All Through the House8Brilliant White by Benjamin MooreDylan Chandler for Country LivingAuthor, aesthete, and antiques-lover Nora Murphy chose a simple white shade for her recent seaside Colonial makeover. Bright, almost reflective whites such as this are perfect for coastal homes; pair it with a black front door and shutters for a more traditional touch. Get the Look:Exterior Paint Color: Brilliant White by Benjamin MooreRELATED: These Are The Best Designer-Approved White Paint ColorsAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below9Barn Red by ValsparAudrey HallIf you’re looking to add a bit of quintessential country flair to your home’s exterior, try a barn-inspired red. Valspar’s aptly named Barn Red takes a grounded, more historic approach to the saturated shade thanks to its purple-brown undertones. Get the Look:Exterior Paint Color: Barn Red by ValsparTOUR THIS HOUSERELATED: Everything You Need to Know About Barndominiums10India Yellow by Farrow & BallAlpha SmootLooking for a shade that looks as good in the summer sun as it does in the fall foliage? Floral and event designer Justin Reis chose this timeless muted ochre for his Georgian-style Connecticut home. Get the Look:For similar, Exterior Paint Color: India Yellow by Farrow & BallTOUR THIS HOUSEAnna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she has been covering all things home design, including sharing exclusive looks at beautifully designed country kitchens, producing home features, writing everything from timely trend reports on the latest viral aesthetic to expert-driven explainers on must-read topics, and rounding up pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know about paint, since 2021. Anna has spent the last seven years covering every aspect of the design industry, previously having written for Traditional Home, One Kings Lane, House Beautiful, and Frederic. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. When she’s not working, Anna can either be found digging around her flower garden or through the dusty shelves of an antique shop. Follow her adventures, or, more importantly, those of her three-year-old Maltese and official Country Living Pet Lab tester, Teddy, on Instagram.  

Scent is one of the most powerful ways to immortalize a moment in time, many thanks to the olfactory system’s direct line to the amygdala and hippocampus (the parts of the brain responsible for emotion and memory). It’s why a whiff of a familiar fragrance note can trigger déjà vu or nostalgia for something or somewhere long gone. And while perfumers often look to far-flung destinations for fragrance inspiration, some of the most compelling scents take cues from the spaces we frequent, like the interiors of a home or a hotel room.When perfumer Jérôme Epinette, the nose behind all of Byredo’s iconic scents, was drumming up inspiration for the brand’s iconic library-inspired Bibliothèque scent, he began with a leather couch, which he associates with sitting down to relax with a book. “That’s how I came up with the biotech [elements], which have a little bit of violet, suede, leather, and wood of course,” he explains. Elsewhere, hints of patchouli are meant to evoke a Mad Men–era image of someone lighting up a cigar among the shelves, he says, “even though we don’t smoke in the library anymore.”Similarly, Abel’s master perfumer Isaac Sinclair had a clear idea of setting when he was creating The Apartment, an interpretation of a Hausmannian Parisian flat overlooking the Arc de Triomphe (a very real place where the scent was concocted in person). Rather than pencil in the framework of a home note for note, The Apartment instead evokes sex appeal and sophistication through gourmand notes of cherry and rum that suggest the after-hours revelry that happens between those very walls. Sinclair says that, unlike other perfumes that revolve around one or two core notes, this fragrance captures a vibe and a sexy atmosphere.He compares the process of constructing a perfume to architecture itself. “Usually you start with a foundation and then you start building on top of that,” he says, rather than going roof-first. Sticking to the storyline is also important for the cohesiveness of a scent, he explains, drawing out the design metaphor. “Sometimes you can add something to a fragrance and it smells amazing, but you’ve actually lost the story.”Danish designer Oliver Gustav, whose studio in Copenhagen features a beautifully curated assortment of furniture and decor from all over the world, also has his own line of scents colored by his love for design and interiors. “I wanted something to bring me back to certain special places and times—sometimes a place with present-day significance, and [other times] a place almost ancient but with dreamy and inspirational significance to my work and life as a designer and collector,” he explains of his fragrances.Here a closer look at some of these intriguing scents out there inspired by interiors, along with the stories behind their makeup.Abel Apartment Eau de ParfumTo bottle up the sexy, cosmopolitan allure of Paris, The Apartment needed to match the same energy. Sinclair says the rum note in it came about after plenty of experimentation—and alludes to the debauchery of a long night after-hours—while the cherry that forms the heart of the perfume (derived from pure cherry extract) is another gourmand note with sultry connotations.Byredo Bibliothèque CandleBibliothèque is one of our favorite candles to recommend as gifts for bookworms and beyond. It plays with contrast through plum and peach notes that Epinette says lend a creaminess to the leather and patchouli at its heart for a well-balanced rendering of a place filled with cushy seating and bound books.Comme des Garcons Odeur 71 Eau de ToiletteComme des Garçon’s oddball Odeur 71 is a slice-of-life perfume inspired by everyday smells you might encounter in an office setting, like the dust on a lightbulb or pencil shavings. It was name-dropped by one of the guest editors for AD’s first Scent Week, DS & Durga cofounder Kavi Moltz, who describes it as an unorthodox perfume that showed her how far you could push the boundaries of fragrance. “It’s the scent I wore before we started DS & Durga—it’s meant to smell like copy machine toner and hot lightbulbs,” Moltz shares."MMXXI" Potpourri on Iron StandAs a designer and collector, Gustav had a special room in mind when creating the scent MMXXI. “It is my own calming living room in a crooked 1638 house where I can withdraw from the bustling world to one of soothing gray tones, beautiful books, deep comfortable chairs, and a crackling fireplace,” he says. He set the scene with notes of worn leather and tabacco, softened by violet to evoke the calm of the space.Vilhelm Parfumerie Room Service Eau de ParfumVilhelm Parfumerie’s Room Service was inspired by Old Hollywood glamour, with actress Greta Garbo as its ultimate muse. The scent places her in New York City’s Carlyle Hotel, draped in satin and drawing a bath topped with flower petals. Notes of musk and sandalwood nod to the sensuality of the scene that’s playing out, while the florals and citrus can be interpreted as a literal spin on the creature comforts of a well-stocked hotel room.Byredo Tree House CandleTree House is another architectural take on a tiny home. Notes of wood and hay bolster this cedar-and-bamboo-heavy fragrance, while earthy notes of myrrh and sandalwood elevate this youthful structure into a sacred place.Maison d'Etto Durban Jane Eau de ParfumMaison D’Etto’s woodsy Durban Jane is less a depiction of a specific house and more of an abstract expression of belonging and comfort. Perfumer Celine Barel captures the “cocoon-like feeling of home” through cedar and sandalwood notes that nod to the bones of a house, plus earthy notes like orris and labdanum (with its traces of leather) that heighten the cozy factor of this scent.

A few summers ago, when the culture was moving through micro trends as fast as they could be Instagrammed, Cottage Core was born. The trend, which came out of a Covid-influenced romanticism for living close to nature (but not ruffing it, à la gorpcore, fashion’s cousin trend), inspired an infusion of chintz and whicker-filled interiors, and, of course, lush English-style gardens.Flash forward to 2025. All those cottage gardens planted in early 2020—rustic, sophisticated, chic—are at their peak. And there really is something to an outdoor space that merges with the indoors, is there not? On a warm summer evening, when the bougainvillea is in bloom, and the grass is a bit damp, what could be more appealing than a home built to nestle into a fantastical garden.Here, we’ve collected some of our favorite cottage gardens. They range from fairy house gardens to campground landscape, historical (Anne Hathaway’s famed cottage that has inspired Shakespeare devotees the world over) to contemporary compound gardens in the woods.While we may have a specific notion of a cottage garden, but they are—and should be—as unique as the people who tend them. One lesson for planting your own? A small space is an asset rather than a limitation.Below, you’ll find 15 of our favorite cottage gardens from Marin County California to Stratford-Upon-Avon, England.William Jess LairdThis Amagansett cottage was literally designed for “summertime snoozes.” It’s also a good reminder that a delicate slate garden pathway can take you far. Designer Melissa Lee noted how “unexpected” the whole place felt, surrounded by the many mansions of the Hamptons. As she rightfully notes, the charm is in the surprise. A suggestion of mystery always adds to a cottage! Think The Secret Garden or the unexpectedly expansive Weasley Family home.Noe DewittVines climb up this 1920s English Art and Crafts style cottage in the Hamptons. The elegant and eclectic cottage was re-designed by Nick Olsen to emphasize outdoor living with comfy couches, a tiled patio and a pool.William James LairdThis pink cottage kitchen looks out over a garden in Litchfield County, Connecticut. Designer Clive Lonstein’s work is vibrant and unexpected, particularly for a modest Connecticut cottage built in the late 1800s. In a way though, the bright colors all throughout the house are a reflection of the original design for the house. The architect, Ehrick Rossiter was known for his own whimsy, and even included a turret in this design. This cottage is a great reminder to leave the door open all summer long.Stephen Kent JohnsonThis former fishing shack in Provincetown proves that a sprawling garden can fit into a small space. From Windex yellow fox gloves to arching lavender, this is a bucolic slice of heaven. A classic shingled home, complete with flower boxes and a white picket fence, it has a deeply cottage-core sequence backstory. It was used as an artist studio for William Maynard until his death in 2016, and when it was sold, prospective buyers were asked to write why they wanted to live there.Rachael SmithWe love an indoor / outdoor cottage garden. Ideally, you have a branch that grows through a window, like this one in Suzie de Rohan Willner’s English Country Garden. It is a charming marriage of dynamics: English and French, contemporary and historical, and, of course just as eclectic as a cottage should be. Willner notes, “The whole house is a collection of things from each period of my and my husband’s lives. I love to pick up bibs and bobs and it all comes together very happily.”Chronicle / Alamy Stock PhotoKate Middleton’s Adelaide Cottage conjures images of an Arthurian fantasy. The Wales family made this their Windsor home since 2023. Built in 1831 for Queen Adelaide (the German-born wife of William IV, who was the Uncle of Queen Victoria). It went through a transformative renovation in 2015 which left the historical decorations in tact. Fun fact: the Wales family pay market rent for their use of the home.Photo 12//Getty ImagesThe poet, actor, and playwright Anne Hathaway’s famed cottage and accompanying garden must have inspired her husband’s plays (that would be Shakespeare). This might be what comes to mind when you think of a cottage garden. Now open to the public daily, it was originally built more than 500 years ago, and is the site of Hathaway’s own birth in 1556.CostcoThis Costco (yes, Costco!) shed turned cottage is an ideal backdrop for your cottage garden fantasy. If you’re feeling very DIY this year, start here. Priced at $6,499, it measures 12’ x 24’ feet, a perfect amount of space for your own summer hide away or gardening shed.Richard PowersThis glass house is a reminder that a cottage garden doesn’t have to follow a prescribed style. The Amagansett cottage, originally built in 1960, is a marvel of mid-century design, an aesthetic reflected in the mod-furniture choices. Again, we love a stylistic mix in an updated cottage. Japanese Maple Trees complete the woodsy vibe.© David Hockney, Photo By Jonathan WilkinsonDavid Hockney illustrated his own cottage garden during the Pandemic. His drawing is illustrative of the benefits of an English garden: a bit wild, extremely lush, and more green than anything else. If we could, we’d jump right into this scene like Mary Poppins on a rainy day.John M. Hall for ELLE DecorHere’s a rule of thumb: trust Ina Garten. This cottage-like structure, on the grounds of the East Hampton home Garten shares with her husband Jeffrey, is perennially perfect. Note, too, the green and purple color scheme here. This is perhaps the dream cottage garden and something of a childhood playhouse. It has just enough space for a cozy chat and is a reminder that you can build your own little cottage on a very small plot of land.Photo 12//Getty ImagesMarie Antoinette’s Hamlet on the grounds of Versailles still sets the standard for the cottage garden with a thatched roof, hedges, and roses straight out of a fairy tale. During the former French Queen’s reign, her hamlet was used as a faux farm house, where she and her young daughter, Princess Marie Thérèse, would dress as idealized versions of French peasant farmers and milk cows. The interior, though, of this modest cottage, is appropriately grand with silk furnishings and canopy beds.Douglas FriedmanA garden that proves succulents and cottages are a match made in heaven. This one, in Marin County, California, adds a bit of desert flair. On the other side of this cottage is a water way and a perfect little dock for launching paddle boards. We love how the greens liven up this side of the house and create a completely different, almost modern desert-like, aesthetic. As with any great cottage garden, there is a distinctly transportive factor.Michael CliffordA light wood sauna and cold plunge on the grounds of Jenni Kayne’s Hudson Valley farmhouse are hidden behind shrubbery for a sense of privacy against a wide open landscape. We love the idea of adding a spa-like ambiance to a cottage garden as well as finding inventive ways to use the space. This is exactly where we want to be in the summer!Getty ImagesThis is sort of cheating, but Bunny Williams is a necessary inclusion! Williams’s Oak Spring Garden in Upperville, Virginia continues to inspire garden and cottage enthusiasts the world over. Rather than one cottage, the grounds of Williams’s large estate feature a guest cottage and a basket house, both of which are charming in the extreme.Dorothy ScarboroughDorothy Scarborough (she/her) is the assistant to the Editor in Chief of Town & Country and Elle Decor.