I make no reservations about expressing my love of the vintage armoire. You can read about it here and here. And today, it’s getting the Secondhand Scores treatment. I’ll walk you through all the things I think you should consider before buying one, some search terms to use in your search, what you can expect to pay for one, what specific styles to look for, and then we end with where in your home you can use one effectively (and beautifully).

This large, versatile storage piece is such a powerful visual statement when used in a tightly designed room, all while hiding a multitude of random things you don’t want to have to see every day. It’s a decorating heavy hitter, and you can find them for as low as $100!

What To Think About Before Buying:

Like with anything secondhand—a.k.a. non-returnable—you have to think about a few things on the front end before purchasing so you don’t end up having regrets. Some of the below bullet points are based on personal experience, and some are from anecdotal research I found.

• Structural integrity: Is it stable? Is it warped in any spot? Does it wobble? A piece this large can be a downright danger if it doesn’t pass these simple safety checks. And look, I’ve bought plenty of furnishings like this sight-unseen, but if you can see it in person and kick the tires, so to speak, that’s always best.
• Dimensions and access: Again, these things can be sizeable, so check then double-check the height, width, and depth before committing to it. Will it fit through your front door? Will it fit through your hallway? Will it fit in the room itself? As some of you may know, I had a depressing armoire fiasco when I moved into our new place a few years back. The wardrobe I so lovingly and excitedly acquired for my previous room couldn’t clear the ceiling right above my staircase, and it’s been living in the garage ever since. TBH, I think my movers were tired after a very long day and didn’t want to get creative, but better that than them thinking they could have gotten it up and scratched the whole front side, for instance.
• Condition and quality: This one relates to the price and what you expect out of it. The older the piece, the more likely it being solid wood, but that’s no guarantee. Ask questions, look at joints if you can, and figure out what you’re buying. If it’s a super low-cost piece, like say, under $200, it’s worth just buying it if you like it, but if construction material is important to you, be sure to ask and maybe look at it yourself. A quick anecdote: I bought a dresser for my daughter from Facebook Marketplace last year. I asked whether it was veneer or solid wood, and the seller told me it was solid wood. Technically, he wasn’t wrong as the construction of the body of the dresser, as well as the drawers, were wood and not particle board. But it did have a veneer on the drawer fronts and sides. It didn’t end up bothering me, as it was all in great shape, and the wood pattern it had that I fell in love with is commonly achieved using wood veneer.
• Signs of age vs. a reproduction: In a similar vein, and especially if you’re buying an expensive item or a heritage piece, you should look for signs that something is what it says it is versus a good reproduction. Old, hand-made furniture typically has dovetail joints (with an armoire may or may not have), and as these were chiseled by hand traditionally, they will be slightly imperfect. If something is so precise it looks like only a machine could have made it, then a machine probably made it. Which look, that doesn’t automatically make something garbage, but it’s important to get what you’re paying for. Do some deep research on the specific item they’re claiming to be selling you, if it has a maker name attached to it or even a year/decade, and see what was common for that brand or time era.
• Odors: This one can only be sussed out in person. Wood is a natural material, so it does absorb odors. If you’re storing clothes and other soft goods in your soon-to-be armoire, make sure it’s not a stinky situation in there.
• Does it function? Well, well, well, if it isn’t another personal anecdote of mine. So that beloved armoire of mine that I bought sight unseen had an issue that was disclosed to me. One of the doors didn’t latch properly, and I thought, “Eh, whatever, I’ll just get it fixed.” It’s been nearly four years, and it’s still not fixed, FYI. All that to say, be honest with yourself about whether there are needed repairs, and whether you’re actually going to be proactive enough to get them taken care of.
• Can you transport it? Do you need to hire a delivery service? Does it fit in your car or truck? A normal quandary with any marketplace furniture purchases, but still worth considering. Also, did you know that some vintage and antique armoires actually were meant to break down into pieces for easy transport? The top comes off some of them, and the walls come apart. It’s not the case for all, but some, yes, so see if that’s also an option.

Some Armoire Designs We’d Sign Off On

There’s a lot of ugly out there. There’s also a lot of “wait, is this ugly or is this actually nice in the right room/design?” as well. Even I go through that, trust me. But I’ve studied rooms with antique armoires in them for years, so I have a pretty good sense of what’s going to be a gorgeous statement piece, and what’s just going to look like a giant beast eating a room. Here are some I found locally to me, with their price points. In my region, the price runs the gamut, from $150 for a no-name vintage piece with some wear, all the way into the thousands from names like Lane or Martinsville. This may be different where you live, but I doubt it’s too far off.

As for search terms, try using:

• armoire
• wardrobe
• clothes cabinet
• armoire wardrobe
• tall cabinet
• storage cabinet
• closet (or closet cabinet)

My goodness! If I didn’t already have my armoire, I’d consider this one. I love the floral details so much. I’m not sure it actually has handles (just handle plates), but if I were to ever handle (ha) that, this would be wonderful in a romantic bedroom with rich colored or wallpapered walls.

I saw so many of these Art Deco, hugely wide pieces when I was on my hunt, but they didn’t fit both the scale and size of my room. The carvings on this one and the fun little feat are so interesting. I’m not sure how this opens up, though, assuming each side and then the center mirror as well has storage behind it. $500 is a steal for something of this size.

Anyone who knows me knows I love a burlwood armoire. It acts as a neutral pattern, and when used in a room that treats it like a star, it will end up being a piece everyone will ask you about. This one is $200, and the description mentions it “needs work,” but that’s the kind of thing you dig in and ask about before buying!

Another Art Deco armoire, which I’m partial to. Mine has a similar shape and also has a hanging rack and a mirror inside. My ultimate goal was to retrofit mine with some more storage compartments, which I never got around to. But if you only need to hang dresses or coats (or even store tall cleaning supplies such as your vacuum and broom), you won’t need much more than this.

A different style here, a bit more mission, but still interesting with subtle detail banding in the woodwork. I mean, $250?!? If it’s in good condition, this is a steal.

It had me at “tassel,” honestly. Bonus points for mentioning that it has a “large drawer area” inside, so super versatile for use as a linen closet or in a bedroom.

You’ll find a mix of pieces sold by dealers and pieces sold by people; this one appears to me to be from a dealer/reseller. It looks like the wood was stripped at some point, and glass doors were replaced with chicken wire (a cute look for a dining room, breakfast nook, or bathroom).

Here’s where we get into something a bit pricier. You can tell by the sheen of the wood grain that this is a rare wood type, and being an antique (as they are claiming from the early 1800s), that makes the price make sense. Note that some armoires have full-length doors with interior storage, and some are more like this with a chest of drawers and a hutch-like storage piece above.

Lane pieces from the mid-century are incredibly popular, so supply and demand come into play here on pricing. You definitely want to go see something of this price in person if you can, both to check the condition of the piece but also to make sure the scale feels right. This one is likely not overly large, at about 5 feet tall by 3 feet wide.

Another beast, with a price tag to match. I love the mid-century design on this one, the warmth of the wood, and it appears to have a ton of specialized storage inside.

Okay, But Where Do I Use One?

The bedroom is the most straightforward answer for where to use an armoire or wardrobe, considering they were originally designed as freestanding furnishings that held clothing before built-in closets were a thing. But it doesn’t have to stop there. Anywhere you need a large storage piece—whether for function or form—an armoire can work. Keep scrolling for some recent inspiration shots I dug up.

Vintage Armoire In A Bedroom

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Interior designer Lonika Chande shared this shot of a guest room in her mom’s house. It feels eclectic yet minimal, and that’s the power of one large statement piece in a statement color, like that pinky-red armoire.

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Add “castellated” armoire to my new list of dream items. If you have a large bedroom space with a lot of empty walls, an armoire is a fast fix to fill the voids, but also be incredibly functional.

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Even compact spaces with low or sloped ceilings can accommodate an armoire. In fact, I find they work well in a room where you want to limit visual clutter because they have solid doors that hide mess. Whereas an open bookcase or shelves, while beautiful, can feel overbearing, full of books and decor items.

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In a bedroom that is set up like a salon suite, an armoire tucked into a corner can feel really anchoring. This one is a French antique from Chairish, acquired by designer Hendricks Churchill.

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For anyone who doesn’t love the antique brown wood look, yes, you can always paint an armoire. This satin black one in a bedroom by Amber Interiors is stately but doesn’t steal the show of the room’s ceilings or the view out the doors.

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On the flip side of the previous bedroom is this old-world cottage bedroom posted by Shop Doen, though originally from Cabana Magazine.

Vintage Armoire In A Living Room

Now, another area of the home I love to see an armoire is in a living space, either a den, a living room, or a sitting room. They can be amazing for stashing away board games, seasonal items, sound equipment (an uncle of mine used to have this unbelievable Oriental armoire in his Manhattan apartment, and we’d just sit in the living room listening to his CDs he had inside with the stereo, and chit-chatting without a TV or phone in sight), even a small TV.

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Just typing “and even a small TV” gives me inexpensive hotel vibes, but as long as the item is made of a natural wood material in a neutral tone, it’ll look great, not 1990s.

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For added height, you can always store a collection of something atop an armoire; here, House Collected showcases a bunch of varied baskets.

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Another one from Amber Interiors. I love the juxtaposition of the age-worn armoire flanked by the ultra-modern sconces.

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This one is giving me pier mirror vibes, don’t you think?? It’s huge in comparison to the lower furniture, but it brings the eye up to what is clearly a very tall ceiling.

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Obviously, this one isn’t vintage, but I like the placement of it in that shallow nook you often find next to a fireplace wall. I’ve seen a lot of people do a console of chest with art above, or add in shelves, but I love the addition of the armoire instead.

Vintage Armoire In Misc. Spaces

In this final category, I lumped together a few rooms since there weren’t enough of each for its own stand-alone bucket, but there are some great concepts here that may resonate with some of you!

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An armoire in a bathroom is such a romantic move. I had a small storage cabinet (not aesthetically similar to this one, but it served the same purpose for me) in a previous bathroom when I lived in Florida. It was so convenient to have something like this, considering my under-sink storage was lacking. Mine held my toiletries, extra towels, some pretty apothecary-type bottles, extra toilet paper, and the like.

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If you have an amazing woodworker or handyperson, remember that you can take the inside of an armoire and turn it into WHATEVER YOU WANT! Just take a gander at this amazing hidden bar (complete with a sink and faucet) by Nate Berkus’s design firm.

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A petite armoire in a vestibule, wide hallway, or similar space is so unexpected, which I automatically love.

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What an amazingly elevated way to add storage to a playroom (just be sure to anchor this thing to the wall, of course). This may be a kids’ room—by Lark Interiors—as it’s hard to tell without more context, but I still attest that an armoire in a playroom is a good concept.

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And finally, put that armoire to WORK in a dining space, whether a breakfast nook or formal dining room. In this case, you’d have to have better interior storage than just a hanging bar, certainly, but if you could figure that out, it would be a great addition, especially if your kitchen cabinets were lacking.

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And thus concludes another Secondhard Scores, with one of my favorite, most versatile of furnishings. Look around your house, and I bet you’d find a spot where an armoire could make a world of difference both for your storage needs as well as to aesthetically anchor a room.

What else do you want to see here? What other pieces do you see all the time on marketplaces that you’d love me to dive deeper on? Let me know, and I’d be happy to be of service. 🙂

Until next time, friends…

Opening Image Credits: Design by Arlyn Hernandez | Styling by Emily Edith Bowser | Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: 3 Years In The Making Then An Unexpected Move: Arlyn’s Bedroom Reveal Is A Lesson In The Beauty Of “Unfinished” Design

Yes, I’m/the whole EHD team is still in a hardcore “let’s make life feel and look better” mindset. For me, it’s been everything from health to beauty to home organization. I’m slowly chipping away at things that have been on my list of to-dos for a while, and wow, wow, wow, it just feels really good to check those babies off. So, in the spirit of January, this is a post filled with mostly decor pieces that are both great looking as they are practical (aka will make your life better). Oh, and it’s all from Wayfair, so you know the prices are great, and that shipping is FAST. I promise that there is so much power in making just one small positive change, even if we think it’s a waste of time if we can’t get everything we have on our lists done all at once. It’s not a waste, and it really helps…I know from experience. So let’s dive in, shall we?

Shoe Storage

I know I talked about shoe storage in my post last week about organizing products, but there were only two options (both great if I do say so myself), but I felt we needed more, and with some variety. These will only focus on shoe storage for entryways or mudrooms (aka the kind you see and want to look beautiful).

What a stunner! Modern traditional style, great looking hardware, holds up to 12 pairs of shoes (at least that’s what it says in the description, AND has a drawer! Oh, sorry, it’s also under $150:)) I just think it’s so chic and offers so much function, even beyond the shoe storage. It does come in a few other colors if black doesn’t work with the rest of your decor.

But you might prefer more of a bench style (it’s nice to have a place to sit when you’re putting on or taking off your shoes), and that’s where this wonderful piece comes in. The perfect amount of detail to make it feel special but not “too much,” holds eight pairs of shoes, and is only $120.

This one I LOVE visually, but clearly it doesn’t have the same storage capacity as the others. I see this one more for the person, couple, family, etc, that doesn’t have a shoe storage problem but does need a bench. Then let’s say if a pair of shoes needs a quick temporary home or if guests come over, then this is a perfect fit. The curves of the arms are so good, too.

Boot Trays

The Portland team made sure I included boot trays because they are well acquainted with wanting a nice-looking place to put their wet and/or dirty shoes. I thought this one was pretty ideal! It has a great MCM style, beautiful stain (there are two other options as well), and two tiers! Double the shoes, double the fun, they say:)

However, if you don’t need two tiers and prefer a tray that’s easy to wipe down, either of these are great looking and work with a ton of styles. The galvanized steel one is $40 and wonderfully classic, and the copper one is $46 with that chic and quiet square pattern on the base. Can’t miss with either.

Weather-Proof Mats

If you need a boot tray, you probably need an indoor weather mat, right? We like ones that are simple, have a nice neutral color, and a subtle pattern. This one is great because it really checks those boxes, and if you read about it, this puppy is durable. This slender size is great too for smaller or more narrower spaces.

Two more options! The blue one reminds me of the one in Em’s mudroom, but it also comes in a variety of other colors, and I LOVE the dot pattern on the brown one (which also reminds me of the one in Em’s mudroom:)).

Memory Foam Rug Pad

Em has been using this exact rug pad since her LA days, and as someone who has had the pleasure of walking on it, it’s soooooo nice. I’ve wanted one for a long time, and 2026 may be the year. Here’s what she said about it in 2020:

“With what feels like 1/2″ of memory foam, this rug pad (combined with this comfy rug) is SO COMFY. We originally bought it because our first Persian rug was pretty thin and I wanted concussion-free wrestling periods. It isn’t just non-slip, it adds at least 1/2″ of underfoot serious memory foam comfort. The only downside is that if you get it EXACTLY the size of your rug then you can see the edge of it, but if you get it too much smaller then you can see the line underneath where it ends. So I ended up cutting an inch or two off so the rug just slightly goes over it. Not everyone is as into comfort as I am but I think these little things are subconscious signals that say, ‘come in, sit, relax, stay awhile,’ which is how I want us to feel in our home.”

Pillow Inserts

I just recently replaced my pillow inserts, and wow, do I notice a difference! If you are in the market, one of the reviewers said this about these ones:

“You know those hotel pillows that we all love so much. Well, these are those pillows. They aren’t too soft to where your head sinks down into the pillow, and you wake up with a crook in your neck, and they aren’t too firm when you feel like you slept on a brick all night and wake up with a stiff neck…”

Sold? Ya, me too.

Nightstands With Charging Stations

Why not have your nightstands work even better for you and have a built-in charging station? If you are someone who leaves their phone in another room while you sleep, you are my hero. But for the rest of us, the idea of having the easiest access to a charging port for one of our many devices sounds pretty amazing. But basic and overly modern nightstands are not really our preference. Instead, look at how great these modern traditional ones are. The black ones have cleaner lines and that cute open nook over their two drawers, while the light toned ones have those wonderful rounded feet. No losing with either of these options.

Here are some more modern options. The fluting on the MCM-inspired one is the perfect detail for just enough visual texture (also only $130). Then how cool is the more postmodern one! Its shape is modern, and the wood texture is so organic-looking and beautiful. Just a great option for a beautiful but unexpected piece (and at the great price of $165).

Storage End Of Bed Benches

As I am sure many of you know, EHD LOVES an end-of-bed bench. Make it a storage bench?? Chef’s kiss. So when I saw this one I knew I had to include it. So pretty, elegant, AND practical.

This bench (as proven by these photos) is perfect for either an entry, hallway, or end of the bed, etc. The colors are great, the style is classic, and from the looks of it, it has a decent amount of storage. No notes.

I feel like this one is a sneaky storage bench. When you look at it, you don’t immediately think “storage bench.” The style is versatile, the color is neutral but fun, and because it’s 100% upholstered, it looks cozy too:) All of the benches are around $200, which isn’t bad at all.

Jewelry Organization

Let’s just say most of my costume jewelry is in a very pretty pink Intentionally Blank shoe box. Not a terrible solution, but it’s not a great one or one I want to display. These two, on the other hand, are a different story. If you read any trend posts from last year or Arlyn’s 2026 color trend post from Wednesday, then you know light blue is one of THE colors currently. It took me by surprise last year, too, and I couldn’t love it more. So if you want to dip your toe into the icy blue world, this light blue jewelry box is perfect. But you are more of a classic natural wood tone person and have the budget to go a little over $100, this walnut beauty is a no-brainer. If I were further along in my bathroom design, I would be having a VERY hard time choosing between these two.

But maybe you’re like, “Jess, aren’t you cute with your three little drawers, but that is NOT going to cut it for my jewelry collection.” Fair! So then here is an option that can be wall-mounted or hung over a door. And not only do you get a significant amount of jewelry storage, but you get a wall mirror too! They also come in other fun colors if black doesn’t work with your overall style.

Now this jewelry armoire says to all of these previous options, “hold my beer” when it opens up and reveals SEVEN drawers, two doors for hanging pieces, AND a top compartment with a mirror. I think the next step up from this would be a jewelry closet. It’s simple, stylish, and gives you so much incredible storage!

Cord Management

It’s 2026, and if you somehow don’t have a lot of cords to manage, then I am very impressed! I feel that most of us there’s at least one area in our home where the cords are out of control, and these cute little boxes can help manage the cord chaos. The white one is meant to sort of camouflage into the background with its simple, sleek lines. The green one is more of a “show me off” gal with that fun color and cool texture. Something for everyone…

…unless you prefer a natural material like this wonderful woven basket option! Again, you can’t go wrong.

If nothing else, I hope this post was a little extra encouragement to keep going with those little improvements in whatever way you wish. Wayfair is, of course, just such an incredible resource that we think should always be a place to look for great pieces that make your home and life better…at great prices. Hope you all have a good and safe weekend.

Love you, mean it.

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Kaitlin Green | From: The Mudroom Dog Washing Station: Measurements, How It’s Working + Some Practical Dog Products

Hello and welcome to the EHD “Best Of Design” list for 2025. We decided to wait till January (as opposed to last year) to give a full 365 days for all of the 2025 design content to come out, and I’m so happy we did because I think at least a few of the home tours are from the tail end. Anyway, this post is pure design joy and pure design celebration. There are, of course, so many more tours and products we could have talked about, but challenging ourselves to rein it in and pick only a few is a good practice (and VERY hard for me personally:)). Design is our love and obsession, so we hope you enjoy our picks as much as we do.

Emily

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Reath Design is a firm we’ve been loving for years and years now. Most of their projects I love, want to look at and be inside of, but not necessarily LIVE in full-time or own. This is not a knock on her and her team, I’m just less risk-averse and dare I say basic on a day-to-day basis. Many of her designs that I LOVE have intense and unexpected colors and finishes, elements that I love to look at but are too bold for me. But this house, oh this house, I would own it in a second. I’m naturally really attracted to warm minimalist mountain houses with a ton of natural light, but this one is full of so much warmth, detail, and really livable design-forward elements. The kitchen specifically stopped my scroll – that tile selection and layout is so striking and yet feels so perfectly integrated. There is this 70s vibe with all the Doug fir paneling, and mixed with the square tile, it feels both nostalgic and modern. Well done, Reath team (and great job Laure for the gorgeous photography). 

Table Lamp

A splurge for sure, this lamp represents to me artists who collaborate to make something gorgeous for the sake of the art. Jessica Helgerson designed this, and I’d imagine she knows that a $4k lamp won’t make it into most homes, but she did it anyway, and it’s GORGOUS. So, in the name of making art for the love of good design and the fulfilling process of creation, I want to applaud her lighting line. She collaborated with an impressive glass blower, and what they created is stunning (and elusively expensive, and therefore I want one:)) (I love the version with the oak base and blue glass shade). 

Accent Chair

Now, to contrast Jessica’s lamp with Studio McGee for Target’s super affordable and strangely high-end-looking chair. The shape of the arms mimics a lot of French and Swedish designs (which are hard to do in an affordable way). Maybe I should shout out the manufacturer for executing it so well. Now, I haven’t bought or sat on this personally, but as far as value for aesthetics, this chair is so beautiful and simple. 

Wallpaper

I’ve loved grasscloth most of my design/adult life (It’s kinda specific, so it doesn’t work everywhere), but I’m obsessed with this printed version by Sarah Sherman Samuel for Lulu and Georgia. The sweet little tulip, with a simple repeat, could work in most traditional homes (sure, it leans cottage and granny, but when paired back, it’s just a nice traditional motif). I love that Sarah bridges sweet with edgy in all of her designs. Kudos, Sarah! 

Jess

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This living room nearly took my breath away. All I could think was how desperately I wanted to melt into that sectional with the fire going and take in every last detail of the space (THOSE WOOD WALLS!!!). Since a lot of you know me, you know that this house has far more color than I am known for using in my own spaces. But this space excited me in a way that made me feel alive (dramatic? maybe). So many styles were mixed, so many colors, so many patterns, so many cool shapes! Not your typical chalet, which I also love. Risk after risk, and it makes me happy every time I look at it. Nicola Harding, what a home:)

Accent Chair

So I’m cheating a little. This chair came out in 2025, but this delicious fabric color, Bing Cherry, was introduced this week. OH well, I say! But let’s talk about this incredible chair. All I want in my life are comfortable, cool/interesting-looking chairs (which is why Baby Barb exists:)). So while this one doesn’t have arms, I know Sixpenny makes incredibly comfortable furniture and the back also looks very plush. However, it’s really the shapes of the legs/back that have my heart skipping a beat. I just think it’s beautiful.

Bolster Pillow

I will forever be grateful to Emily Bowser for suggesting I buy this bolster pillow for my bedroom makeover. The intent was to have it on the actual bed (like a normal person), but it just didn’t work with the overall look, so I stuck it on top of my BEAUTIFUL Katy Sketlton bench (that would have also been a 2025 favorite, but it came out before last year) temporarily. I ended up loving it there, so it stayed! The colors were too pretty, I love a chic checkered print, and it’s really soft. The only bummer is that this color is currently sold out, but you can get notified when it’s back in stock.

Reika Plinth

If you don’t think I thought long and hard about buying one of these for the corner of my bedroom, then you simply don’t know me at all;) Sarah Sherman Samuel is, of course, behind these perfect little plinths in collaboration with Lulu and Georgia. I may never tire of a circle cut-out or just shapes in general. And boy, do I know the work that goes into DIYing something like this, and it is NOT easy. Big fan.

Mallory

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My absolute favorite house tour (apart from Kendyl Jenner’s amazing mountain house) was this seaside home by Commune Design. Commune actually designed my last apartment building, and I’ve always been a really huge fan of their work. This home is architecturally STUNNING, and the views are impeccable. But what I love about it is their use of color. They perfectly blend cobalt blue with the warmth of wood (THAT STAIR CASE!) and are masters at the “pop of color” without it feeling jarring. I could not love this home more.

Ottoman

A super affordable but amazing piece – this $99 Target ottoman actually made me gasp the first time I saw it, and I’ve been dying to find an excuse to buy it for months now!!

Table Lamps

These lamps have taken over Pinterest – they’re simple but have the perfect proportions, color, and I’m obsessed with the dainty ball finial on the top!!

Tiger Mountain Fabric

2025 was a HUGE year for Dedar Milano Tiger Mountain fabric. I’ve been obsessed with this fabric for years now (I even had a special pillow made of it from my favorite upholstery company Stitchroom) – it’s been seeping into the furniture world at an incredible speed, which I believe is a testament to how amazing the design of this fabric is!

Gretchen

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The one 2025 house tour I cannot seem to shake from my mind is Walton Goggins’ tour of his Hudson Valley home with AD. Now, to be fair, I could’ve been a little blinded by the man’s bizarre charm to stay too focused on decor, but something about this video tour just really stood out to me among the hundreds I’d seen last year. I’m a sucker for aged wood, an old cabin feel, homes with history, and this place is full of it. The lounge spaces are to die for, the primary is SWEET (pun allll the way intended), and the speakeasy (Joan Crawford prohibition bar, watch the tour, you’ll see!) was beyond memorable. But his art collection is unmatched, my favorite being the XL piece hanging in the living room. When it comes to good design, I’m mostly a sucker for spaces that tell a story, and this tour has so many. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that the property is just so spacious, beautiful, and plopped smack-dab amongst insane scenery. But so much of the home’s great design (to me) was found in the history preserved and honored there. I mean, what character! You’ll have to watch for yourself to truly understand what I mean. Aesthetically, I could 1000% see myself living (beyond comfortably) here. I want to work in his office next to the giant cork wall, have a drink from the tucked-away bar space, and a seat in one of his dreamy patchwork leather chairs. So good!!

Quilt

Bolster Pillow

My favorite product of the year is one I (finally) bought for myself when Schoolhouse was having a crazy 60% off sale a few weeks ago. If you didn’t catch it…I’m sorry. This was a bit of a bittersweet buy (bye), with the news that Schoolhouse/Food52 filed for bankruptcy. Schoolhouse product was a staple in a number of our projects (like Kaitlin’s living room or Em’s), and it was easy to fall even more in love with their inventory (that Pendleton quilt??). All of their quilts are like eye candy to me, but when I saw the collab with Rachel Murray (a Portland artist whose work I’ve admired for a while now), I about died. After eyeballing her collection all year, I finally bit the bullet and bought myself this quilt/sham combo in the warmer tones (and I’m sure glad I did because now both are sold out). The second it arrived, I ripped it open, spread it out on my bed, and never looked back. It truly feels like a work of art in there, and the colors are really inspiring me to finish designing the space. I couldn’t help myself and also picked up her long, bolster pillow, which lives perfectly on the leather couch in my living room. Seeing little pops of her work around my home just fills me up inside. I’m bummed for Schoolhouse’s situation and hope they find a way to keep making cool stuff, but I’m grateful to have these pieces home to cherish for life!

Accent Chair-and-a-Hair

I’d love to give one more product shout-out to our Baby Barb–EHD’s collective favorite little-big sofa chair from Room Service. Aptly named after the best pig on the farm (don’t tell Alisha), the Barb chair-and-a-half in chocolate brown won my heart in 2025. It has found the perfect spot in Ken’s house, but if I had the space, it would FOR SURE live in mine too. The lines are dreamy, the size is just right, and the material? So luxe, so cozyyyy.

Marlee

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My favorite house tour of 2025 was this historic home located in SE Portland, for somewhat of a selfish reason. I walk past this house weekly, and it’s quite literally impossible for me to pass it without saying, “Wow, I wonder what it looks like inside.” So I was soooo excited when this tour was released – I loved the garden elements and the way the designers honored the home’s (and neighborhood’s) history. So much WHIMSY!!!!

Table Lamp

I was at IKEA last month and saw this cool pleated lamp that was in their holiday section – but I think it deserves to live year-round. It gives off such a soft, pretty glow, and I love the red detail. It’s also so so so affordable (literally $14 right now), and every person that’s been to my house makes a note of it. I’m not sure if it will be around for long, so snag it while it’s still available:)

Arlyn

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As the resident EHD color-over-everything espouser, if you saw the home reveal of food content creator and cookbook author Dan Pelosi of Grossy Pelosi on Domino early last year, it should come as no surprise that it’s my favorite home feature of the year. Trust me, I have an absolute arsenal of incredibly chic and perfect home tours and photos stashed away in my saved folders, but month after month, I couldn’t get this Hudson Valley, New York, home out of my head. It has so much heart and soul, so much color inspiration, it’s a more-is-more situation that is like design Velcro to my brain. I followed his home search and then renovation for the better part of two years, so, in some sense, I’m more connected to it than any others I saw featured in Architectural Digest, for instance. It’s an explosion of jewel tones, wallpaper prints, and collected art. Don’t miss it if you’re a fellow color lover.

As for products I’m putting on a pedestal from last year, it’s a combination of things I’ve really contemplated getting for my home and things I’ve admired from afar that I could never justify purchasing.

Sofa

Sarah Sherman Samuel keeps making hits for Lulu & Georgia, including this fantastic piece, the Trudy Modular Sofa. The price point is well above what I’d be willing to spend on a fashionable sofa at this point in my life with a young child, but I sure can dream, can’t I?

Quilt

Here’s another “I could never actually spend this much money on a quilt, but I love it so much” pick. If you happen to have the budget for a nearly $600 quilt after tax, please, I beg of you, buy this beautiful quilt from Toast and think of me every time you tuck yourself into your gorgeous, luxe bed.

Step Stool | Curtains

Pierce & Ward’s line that launched this year with West Elm absolutely blew me away. I’ve long been a fan of their work, so to have access to their design at a mainstream price point was a huge deal. Did I buy any of it? No, considering I have no room in my house for literally anything else, but I think I included their curtains in at least five stories and roundups (maybe more). The details are striking, just look at the legs on that step stool.

Wallpaper Collection

I’m SO proud of my friend, Fariha Nasir of Pennies for a Fortune, for launching her collection with Chasing Paper this year. Fariha and I are wrapping up writing her first coffee table book (due out next fall!!), and as if that wasn’t enough work combined with running her platforms—and mothering two young boys—she was absolutely determined to have a wallpaper line, and that girl DID IT. Not to mention it’s gorgeous, and I’d be glad to have her papers in my home if I had the motivation to do anything further in my current rental. But once I’m a homeowner, it’s on. 🙂

There you have it! Designs that stole our 2025 hearts. We’d love to know yours!? Any here that resonated with you? Excited for what 2026 has to bring!

Love you, mean it.

Sure, it’s a little cliché to talk about really good/helpful storage and organizing products the first week back of a new year. However, I’d say 80% of my friends and family are deep in a purge and organizing mode…myself included. The other day, my best friend said, “Jess, you’d be so proud of me. I’ve gotten rid of so much, and I’ve already gone to the store to get containers and bins for what we’re keeping.” It’s such an exhilarating feeling!! I do want to make it clear that I’m not going around to my friends’ homes, telling them to “organize or else”. However, I do have a reputation for getting fairly obsessed with getting rid of what I no longer need or want in my own home. But did I help purge and organize many of my friends’ rooms growing up? Yes. Did I read and love every word of The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up in 2014? Yes. Did I then consider a career in organizational design after that? You bet. So while I’m not an actual organizing professional, I am an enthusiast and hope that if you’ve been looking for a nudge to purge, organize what you already have, or both, that this post inspires you. Let’s start where most of us do…the closets.

The Closets

Bed Sheet Organizer (Pack of 6) | Storage Bag

If I didn’t already have a perfectly good bin for my one extra bed linen set and some towels (or had more bedrooms in my home), I would instantly purchase these bed sheet organizers. How nice to just be able to pull an organizer for a certain bed you’re changing and know you have all the matching items ready to go. No more “wait, why is this queen flat sheet with the king fitted sheet?” It’s all in one beautiful container. But for bigger and bulkier items like comforters, extra pillows, etc, this large storage bag $5 from IKEA, is perfect.

Expandable Blanket Storage Bags (Pack of 3) | Clothes Storage Bins (Pack of 2)

More options! These expandable blanket storage bags are a mix of the two products above. They can be for just sheets, but can also expand larger for your bulkier linens. The more structured bins are for clothes. It’s so important to be able to see what you have (especially if they are sweaters you haven’t worn in a year). These bins are chic, clean, and seemingly not annoying to use!

Clear Shelf Divider (Set of 8) | Purse Organizer/Bag Divider

But maybe a simple shelf divider is more your style. Mallory had loved these clear shelf dividers in her last studio apartment. Emily is also a fan. Anything to help keep those open closet shelves more organized! I also love the idea of getting to clearly see all of your bags with this divider while keeping them nice. Maybe as I continue to get rid of stuff, I’ll make space for one. I want to have easier access to all of my bags, so I don’t forget to use them for 5 years! Out of sight, out of mind, especially when it comes to clothes and accessories.

Over-the-Door Hanging Coat Rack | Non-Slip Hangers

Hooks and hangers are definitely important in a closet reorg. I’m a sucker for these slim non-slip hangers. I can hang SO much more and have it look uniform, my dream:) And that over-the-door hanging coat rack is so cute and versatile. You could use it in any space that needs some extra hooks.

Purse Hanger Organizer (Pack of 2) | Shoe Organizer Box

If you don’t have space on the back of your door or on a shelf with a divider, this purse hanger is a great option. And if you are a shoe organizer box person (also my dream to be one), I love this chic little one. Should organization products be beautiful too if that’s what you want??

Lenia Underbed Storage Drawer (Pack of 2) | Bamboo Under Bed Storage Containers (Pack of 2)

I’m not against plastic or fabric long bins under beds (I’ve owned many), but if I had storage space under my current bed, I would get a wooden one like either of these. This one from Article is so beautiful, also comes in white oak, and Sara can attest to how beautiful they are since she owns them:) If you need to keep the budget lower, these bamboo ones are awesome AND have a zippable fabric protector. The best of all the worlds.

Wrapping Paper Storage Case

I love a good gift wrapping storage option, and this solid, simple one looks great, is from IKEA (also great), and is under $15 (the best). I promise that the feeling of knowing where all of your gift wrapping supplies are and having them organized is thrilling.

Now, let me show you some great decorative bins I found:)

Pretty Bins

MÄVINN | Large Solid Canvas Storage Basket

First off, both of these are under $20 and are clearly very cute. If bins are visible in a room, it’s a great opportunity to add color and/or pattern. The solid canvas one comes in two different sizes.

Canvas Basket | GJÄTTA

If you prefer a more structured bin look but still want them to be fabric, I really love both of these. The blue velvet one also comes in dark green!

Coiled Basket | Chunky Weave Basket

Both of these are larger, affordable, and would be great for shoes in an entry, blankets in the living room, or any other thing you can dream up. Plus, the different textures on both of them are so pretty and would add a lot to a room.

Braided Water Hyacinth Basket | Large Rattan Storage Basket with Lid

Two more! But rectangles:) I love the handles and stripes of the braided water hyacinth basket, but I also realllly appreciate the lid on the rattan storage basket. You can’t go wrong.

KNAGGLIG | Open Front Wood Bin

For shelf bins, I love the look of these. The slate wood crate is so classic and could easily be painted for more personality. Dark burgundy, anyone? The fluted open front is so cute and could effortlessly look great with a lot of styles. It’s the small details that get us every time.

Wire Natural Wood Handles Milk Crate | Rectangular Wire Natural Wood Handles Basket

We couldn’t have this post not include these very good wire baskets. They come in a bunch of sizes and would be great for a bedroom, bathroom, or food org in the kitchen. It’s simply because they are VERY pretty, are special without being loud, and are versatile.

Onto the bathroom, officially:)

The Bathroom

NÅLBLECKA | VISSLAÅN

Maximizing counterspace and keeping all of our little bathroom things organized is a top priority for most of us, right?? IKEA has so many useful and pretty things, and these two products are just that. That two-tier counter shelf is simple and cute and would be a great skincare display:) It can also be great in a kitchen. Then maybe if you want something different than the standard plain, clear drawer or counter organizers, I LOVE these chic dark gray boxes as an alternative.

Bamboo Under Sink Organizer | 2 Tier Slide Out Sink Shelf Cabinet Storage Shelves

How good are these slide-out shelves?? Under-sink plumbing can take up a lot of space in the center, making it hard to maximize the more standard options (like the ones below I’ll talk about in a second). So the fact that these have a design that takes that into account is a dream. Plus, both of these are so pretty.

Two-Tier Cabinet Storage Basket | 2-Tier Multi-Purpose Bathroom Under Sink Organizer

So, depending on what plumbing setup you have under your sink, these two could also be really great options. I chose the black metal one because it was more slender and the white/clear one because it’s wider, so it can hold more. Something for everyone (I hope:))!

Bamboo Hair Tools Organizer | Wall Mount Hair Tool Organizer

If I have the space, I would grab one of these hot tools organizers! I need to come up with a system for myself because having to haphazardly stack my hot tools into my cabinet isn’t working out that well, ha. Don’t be like me if these can work in your bathroom. I think you’ll feel like you’re the most put-together person in the world! Or at least that’s how I imagine it.

Waterproof Wicker Shower Rack (Set of 2) | No-Drill Bathroom Organizers (Set of 2)

Personally, I’m not the biggest fan of the “floor to ceiling” corner shower caddies. Of course, that doesn’t make them bad, and I’m sure there are great ones I’d like, but if you need more shower storage, consider wall shelves like these. The wicker one is pretty freaking cute and totally waterproof! No drilling required.

Shall we move on to the kitchen??

The Kitchen

Reds Wood Design Stove Top Shelf Riser | Reds Wood Design Kitchen Shelf Riser

Risers are SO underrated. We can take advantage of vertical space in any space, including the kitchen. These risers, in particular, are very beautiful and on the pricer side, but they really add to the design in a very intentional way. Just a suggestion:)

Glass Storage Jars with Airtight Lids | Cylindrical Jar | Antiqued Wood Ribbed Glass Canister

What better way to free up some cabinet space than to decant some of your dry goods in a beautiful canister?? Of course, this is not something anyone needs to do! Just an idea, and here to show you options we like. I have the glass storage jars, and since I don’t cook that much (which I’m REALLY working on this year), they’ve been really fun/pretty decor. Emily has the Weck jars in her pantry, and she loves them (and they come in so many sizes)

Expandable Bamboo Kitchen Drawer Organizer | Drawer Organizer (Set of 7)

DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE the power of a kitchen drawer organizer. I have oddly large and deep kitchen drawers and once I truly created a great system, every day thereafter was better:) Both of these products are great and give you a lot of options.

In-Drawer Knife Block Organizer | Heavy-Duty Kitchenware Pan Divider

I own this in-drawer knife block organizer, and it’s awesome. Then this pan divider is simple, but it’s great that it can actually handle heavy pieces.

Glass Spice Jar Set with Labels (Set of 36) | Expandable Spice Drawer Organizer

Again, no pressure from us to decant all of our spices (I only do a handful and then display them on my countertop), but if you want to, this huge set is under $35. But whether you want to decant or not, having a spice drawer organizer is another thing I dream of and will have space for one day!

Stackable Utensil Organizer | Ziplock Bag Organizer with Wrap Dispenser

I also have these stackable utensil organizers in my silverware drawer, and they work great and still look new after a few years of use. I sadly don’t have this Ziplock bag organizer, but again, if you are the “decanting” type, it’s a nice addition to the removal of visual clutter in your drawers.

Zaina Drawer Organizer Set | Over-Door Hanging Organizer

Ever wanted Em’s mountain house plate drawer organizers? Well, this one is a spitting image! If you keep your plates and bowls in a drawer, using this set will not only make it more organized but wat more beautiful. And for my small space dwellers, that’s a pretty cute and large over-the-door organizer. Jussst saying:)

Cabinet Organizer Shelf (Set of 4) | Two Tier Countertop Rack

One thing my best friend wanted was an affordable riser/shelf…enter those white and wood ones. Simple, pretty, and they will double the storage for under $35. Or maybe you just need a super useful two tier countertop rack to save on some space. Yamazaki just makes the prettiest, simplest, and modern organization products.

Countertop Organizer Appliance Stand With Drawer And Pull-Out Shelf | BLOMNING

Here are some cuuute closed storage options. My fellow small spacers will understand the helpfulness of a drawer under a microwave! And while I like the pink a lot, I’m in love with the maroon metal canister (perfect for tea:)).

KORALLVIPPA (Set of 6)

These are food containers that are less for display and more for inside the pantry/cabinet:) This price is perfect at $15, and the design is really good!

Tall Plastic Stackable Pantry Bin (Set of 4) | Short Plastic Stackable Pantry Bin (Set of 2)

Bins, bins, bins! You have to see what sizes are best for your home, but these are great!

Refrigerator Organizer Drink Bin | Freezer Bin

The same goes for the fridge-specific ones. Measure, see, use, and get that accomplishment feeling that you feel your life is under control!

Kaloh Storage Cart

And sometimes a kitchen just needs a cart, you know? There are a lot of great ones out there, but I really liked the look and size of this one🙂

The Garage

Garage Tool Organizer Wall Mount | DIY Garage Wall Shelves (Set of 4)

When organizing your garage, absolutely USE THE WALLS. It frees up space on the floor, and as you can see from these cool organization products, it really makes of difference, and they can hold A LOT.

Stack-up Container | DAMMÄNG

Now, I might get some pushback for recommending pretty bins first. But hey! I love pretty things, and these bins look great, with good reviews. That added fluting detail adds so much.

WeatherPro Heavy-Duty Latching Utility Tote Set (Set of 4) | Christmas Storage Bin (Set of 4)

Here are the heavy-duty ones. I love the simplicity of the black ones (great for standard storage). But one hack that you’ve likely heard (and my bestie just did) is to buy color-coded bins for at least the bigger holidays, like Christmas and Halloween. That way, when you’re going through your garage or attic, there are zero questions on which bins you need to pull.

Power Tool Organizer Wall Mount | Battery Organizer Storage Box

Good tool storage is super underrated and will massively improve your life (and garage) if that’s something on your list. This one is only $40!! Then you may have heard me talk about my wall-mounted battery organizer storage box before because I LOVE IT. I know where all of my batteries are at all times, and that makes me feel a little more put together.

The Office

File Storage Box | Portable File Box with Lid Organizer

This blue file box is another piece I personally own. It holds a shocking amount of paperwork, and it’s held up great for the past couple of years. 10/10 if you don’t have space for an actual cabinet. If you want something a little more grab-and-go, this portable file box with lid organizer is perfect for that, with its top handle (and the fact that it’s slimmer).

Wooden Desk Drawer Organizer Set | HARVMATTA

Desk organization products often get ignored in the big storage convo at the beginning of the year, but they shouldn’t! Of course, having a cute pencil cup is awesome, but having these little trays in a drawer will really help keep things in place. I also love this modern desk box that can kinda hold anything. On the site, they have a couple stacked on a shelf, and it looks beautiful.

Last but not least, the shoe/entry problem.

The Entry

Fluted Hidden Shoe Storage Cabinet | Wood Shoes Storage Cabinet

You can always do a big basket by the door (great for kids), but if I can help it, I don’t want to have to see a pile of my shoes by the front door. These two cabinets are really great versions of the IKEA one that Sara used in her living room above. They have texture and color, and of course, versatile.

That’s it for this big ole organization products post! Hope it sparked any needed motivation, and just remember to purge before you start organizing. It’s the main way to truly feel like your home is refreshed and fully put together.

Love you, mean it.

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Kaitlin Green | From: Farmhouse Pantry Reveal

Merry (day after) Christmas!! These days in between Christmas and New Years are some of the ones I look forward to all year – my heart is so full from celebrating with family (the Christmas Eve talent show went crazy); I’m getting together with my long time friends who are home for the holidays and there’s even enough time to sneak in a little 2 day getaway trip with my boyfriend this weekend. There have been many years where the holidays have not felt as shiny and happy as we all know unexpected life events unfold on their own timeline, so I’m just super grateful to be here celebrating with loved ones and with all of you!! OKAY enough sap – we’re here to chat Instagram today!! It’s so fun to write this every year and look back on all that we posted. I know some of you are likely over on Instagram and have seen a few of these (thank you for the likes and comments – they mean so much!), and for those of you who aren’t on Instagram as much, I hope you enjoy seeing some of what we’ve shared over the last year!

At the beginning of the year, we brought on Marlee, who has upped our social game SO MUCH. It’s been so wonderful having someone with her genius brain up in Portland capturing all of this content – she was truly the missing piece to our EHD puzzle, and I’m personally so grateful for her! So some of these Instagram posts were created by our amazing Mar, and others were created by me (Mal), which is definitely not confusing at all. So here we go: the Mar and Mal social gals present to you…

10. Mini Pool/Jacuzzi FAQs – 803k

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The Soake pool was installed in 2022, but 3 years later, we still get asked SO many questions about it. We posted a few different backyard update videos on our Instagram this year, so naturally, it made sense that we had comment after comment wanting to know more. If you’re unfamiliar with it, it’s a small(ish) pool that can be a regular pool in the day and then heat up to be a hot tub by night. It also has an automatic cover for the winter and is typically less difficult to install than building a regular pool from scratch, since Soake pools are ready-made. It’s perfect for the Henderson farm, and the kids absolutely love it (and so does the internet!)

9. Our Crazy Backyard Tour – 834k

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Speaking of sharing backyard updates – this was one of them! The farm backyard landscaping, outdoor kitchen, and pickleball court were all finished this year, so we wanted to show more of the layout (and give the pigs and alpacas some more much-deserved screen time). This reel popped off, and I’m not surprised! That backyard is pretty crazy and awesome.

8. “You’re 46 You Should Start Dressing Your Age” Reel – 884and

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Marlee created this reel during one of the Portland fashion shoots, and it turned out SO cute. Em’s style is so fun, and I love the angle Marlee came up with for this! Also, this reel convinced me that long shorts + tall boots is a very cute look that I will be partaking in. The 3k comments also suggest you guys really liked these outfits too 🙂

7. My Daily Routine Because I Let My Dog On The Sofa – 1M

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This was another super clever one by Marlee! Right before Em switched out her sofas to The Alice from our Room Service collection (which has a removable pillow if you don’t want your dogs to sit on it, ha!) I love the text on it – so simple and so funny. Great job, Mar!

6. Art Barn Carousel – 1.1M

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This one TOOK OFF, and we were shocked. I had realized we never really did a full “start to finish” art barn post on the grid – and it’s always so easy to forget where a project started! I found a super old photo of the art barn shed before it was upgraded, and then did some handwritten text on it (which was our first time doing that…and we were shocked at how well it did!) I think the story is just so fun, so I’m glad this post got a lot of love. What a cool project that was (I want an adult craft barn now lol).

5. Riverhouse Kitchen Carousel – 1.2M

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Marlee pulled this AWESOME carousel together, and I thought it was so genius. I remember we were going back on what the cover picture should be – it was originally a photo of the finished kitchen, and then we decided we wanted to walk you through the story a bit more. Then we found that first progress photo our amazing photographer, Kaitlin Green, took and were like YUP, THAT’S THE ONE. I love the way it walks you through the design process and takes you along for the journey. That kitchen turned out so beautifully, and with that amazing green stone, it’s certainly not boring at all!

4. The Pickleball Court – 1.6M

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If there’s one thing I’ve learned from social media this year, it’s that people love when you say “they said don’t do this…” “so I did it anyway” about literally anything. There’s something about that “rule breaker” mentality and then having it look incredible at the end that “proves people wrong” and is all around super fun to watch. It’s kinda similar to a classic “before and after” we all love seeing, but with a little edge. Marlee killed it with this edit and cinematography!!

3. The House We Bought vs The Home We Created -1.8M

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Speaking of people loving before and afters…this one really popped off! Marlee came up with this one because we wanted to post some more fun organic content (and the farmhouse is such an amazing before and after, so we’re always coming up with new ways to showcase it). These reels are really fun to create because they do pump out to a lot of people that don’t follow us – so it’s helpful to show a bit of what it is they can expect to see around these parts 🙂

2. Everything We Put In Our Outdoor Kitchen – 1.9M

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This outdoor kitchen is so stunning, so I’m not surprised to see it so high up on this list!! I know people love seeing the functionality of how kitchens, mudrooms, and really any other utility space since those rooms work HARD, which is why I edited together this reel! And having an outdoor kitchen is such a fun thing to think about adding if you’re someone with an outdoor space who hosts a lot – so I hope this reel was a fun watch for people! And for number one…

1. 10 Unique Things I Love About My House – 2.5M

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Big statement here, but this might be one of my favorite reels I’ve ever made – so I’m REALLY happy to see it as number one!! We had so much amazing content of the farm that we’ve taken over the years, so I wanted to pull something together that had the most visually impactful footage and shared the coolest features in Em’s amazing home. The engagement was also wild – at 149k likes, this is our highest liked post ever!

If you’ve made it this far – thank you! I hope you all have a lovely rest of 2025, and I’m truly wishing you the best in 2026. Happy almost new year, friends! Xoxo

Alright, y’all. Today is a quick post that might spread a little bit of holiday cheer, I know it does for me. I got pretty emotional writing this, not because of how beautiful it turned out (it’s cute though:)) But thinking about the moms living here during the holidays and what that must be like for them. It’s an immediate shutdown of all my overwhelm and puts things into place pretty quickly. This is our third year of decorating the Family Promise Shelter for the holidays with my kids (and this year, like 12 of their friends:)). The building is a former La Quinta hotel that has been turned into a shelter that houses and rehabilitates 70 families (each family has their own room or adjoining room, depending on size). The angels that work there help them to find permanent housing and jobs, and we witnessed so many kind and tender moments between the families and the employees while we were there (if you are a social worker, god bless you, seriously). It was recently renovated, and we helped furnish the lobby last year and have some ongoing projects in other spaces, but adding the holiday layer was so fun, fast, and fulfilling (and something my kids can be involved in). It’s honestly a huge gift to me to be able to do it, and it has become an afternoon that I really, really look forward to during the busiest time of the year. It’s a huge reset and reframe that I personally need to get me out of the stuff that doesn’t matter and back down to what does, so thank you. I’m so grateful to Family Promise for letting me bring this very respectful and excited crew in for a few hours last week after school. More at the end of the post on how you can help, should you be able to.

The Lobby Pre-Holiday

Desks | Desk Chairs | Woven Bench | Leather Armchairs

The lobby is newly updated and was a blank slate for us. A huge shout out to AllModern for gifting the furniture a couple of months ago. Gretch helped pull this together, and it’s obviously not accessorized yet, but having nice-looking furniture versus random pieces that are donated makes a huge difference. We chose high-quality, easy-to-care-for pieces that look good together. The employees were so, so grateful.

The Dining Room Before

While we didn’t furnish this room, it’s so nice that all the pieces match (they didn’t last year). It was tricky to figure out how to decorate all the rooms without putting anything on the walls (except one nail for a wreath that they approved). Having been newly renovated, the operations manager didn’t want even command strips or blue tape on the walls, so we needed to get creative on the window and columns. (Most people don’t know how to take off command strips properly, so we fully understood the fear of damaging the new walls… I mean, I begged and promised at first, but ultimately our job was to make their lives easier, not harder, so we came up with some creative solutions.)

The Bonus Room Before

The bonus room is for the older kids to do homework and hang out (plus it houses the pantry food for the families to select from behind the blue tarp), and they have a lot of programming, so they asked us just to do this corner, and again, nothing on the walls, but we could do the windows.

The Plan

Gretch and I spent a couple of days shopping, and I had to plan out kid-specific projects. Then we set everything up so that when the kids joined, it would be organized (and not chaotic – the goal was for the kids to only be there for 2 hours). I needed easy, doable but still fun projects for them, so here is what I came up with:

1. Paper Chains – Duh. A real no-brainer here, and while we couldn’t put them on the walls, we were allowed to command strip them to the windows or rig them in the ceiling tiles.
2. Window Paint – We created the template so it wasn’t a free-for-all, and they did patterns within the “ornaments,” and then, you’ll see, they went rogue, but it was so hard to stop them! Easy to clean after, I promise.
3. Magnetic Paper Trees For All The Tables – Opening them up and arranging them all (I thought these would be easy to take down and store as well, taking up so little space).
4. Decorate The Trees With Curated And Shatterproof Ornaments.
5. Column Fun – Gretch and Marlee figured out how to wrap the columns with elastic tied at the top to hold the lightweight ribbon in place without even using tape 🙂

I also really wanted everything to be easy to either dispose of (paper chains) or store in an organized way per room, so that next year we can do the exact same thing without shopping (most of the stuff we bought in the past got all jumbled together so we gave that all to the families to use in their rooms which they were so excited about and started fresh this year so it would look more pulled together). I wanted it to be easy to clean around, take down, and put back up.

The window painting was the biggest hit. I found inspiration on IG, and Gretch drew the template so that the kids could fill it in.

We did three different color palettes per room – more of a traditional red/green/white in the dining room, an icy winter wonderland in the lobby, and more of a Dr. Seuss colorful vibe in the bonus room.

We tried to sequester the kids in here so that the families had privacy. In the past, some of the kids living here have wanted to help, but I am super sensitive to the fact that most kids feel awkward being around other kids (especially tweens and teens), so we were quiet and fast. Ninja elves!

The kids were the most delighted about this room (the colors were so fun). They had a fun dog training session (where the kids can help train their own dogs – the shelter allows pets, which I think is so wonderful), so we had to be out of here early, and I got to hear a few kids squeal.

The Dining Room

Kaitlin came with her girls to help, too, and she snapped a few very quick photos to show you. It was 6 pm, no light and no time to style-to-camera, but you get the vibe 🙂 We put clusters of foldable paper trees on each table and drew on all the windows. We used Posca paint markers and these fat ones (the internet told me they’ll easily wash off). Then Brian hung these Santa hats from the corners of the ceiling tiles. It felt festive and high-impact considering all the constraints.

We added that potted tree in the corner (from Target) and two lamps to the computer tables (that will stay permanently), along with some holiday village houses, holiday pillows, and a throw. Then Gretch figured out how to hang these stars with paper clips from the ceiling tiles. The tree we bought last year fit perfectly in this little nook, and we used mostly blue, silver, and hits of burgundy (the bows) on it.

I really didn’t want it to look messy or overly cluttered since it’s the first thing people see, and there can be a lot of deliveries, packages, and people in here, so we kept it minimal. Foldable trees, a few large velvet nutcrackers, and villages.

Table Lamp

The Bonus Room

Last year, we bought this light-up leaning nutcracker and presents, which the kids really loved. They had a tree for in here, but as soon as we opened it that day, we realized it was missing a few pieces, so we popped down to Lowe’s and bought this cluster of flocked trees (literally the only 6′ trees they had left, so we added two smaller ones to fill out the corner). But I think it turned out so cute!

A big thanks to the these elves for helping, but mostly thank you to the shelter for appeasing me and giving me the gift of being able to help (and by allowing my kids to be a part of it – my team could have likely done it faster and with less mess without them, but it meant the world to me to have them be able to help). The most rewarding part of it was that the social workers (who are legit angels on earth) were so delighted, kept commenting on how festive it felt, and how it was getting them in the spirit of the season. Social work is famously a hard career, with a lot of turnover, so creating a place they might enjoy working in has been a major motivator for me. We tried to keep a very small footprint and not disrupt the families (or make the other kids feel awkward in any way), so we stayed mainly in the dining room, but the employees told me that many of the families and kids were so, so, so happy (a few moms went out of their way to thank us). While Family Promise is providing a warm, safe place to live (and eat – so many volunteers come to cook every night), I know that having their holiday here is not their ideal. I think about the moms a lot. Like, if I’m overwhelmed during the holidays, desperate to stay on top of everything while giving my kids a magical Christmas, how must they feel?

If you are looking to help or donate (link there!), they wanted me to let you know that gift card donations are most appreciated (you can drop them off or mail them). They have a very stocked inventory of toys and clothes for younger kids that the parents shop from, but the tweens and teens are harder, so the moms want gift cards to Amazon or Fred Meyer (which is across the street) in $25 increments so that they can shop for their own kids or give them the autonomy to buy their own gifts. If you’re local, they’re also hoping to receive gift bags since they save time on wrapping. And they’re also planning to provide hot cocoa kits for everyone in the shelter this Christmas (just a mug with hot cocoa in it), so donations toward that would be wonderful too. In-person drop-offs are great—no appointment needed, but Monday-Friday between 10 am-6 pm is the preferred drop-off time, or packages can be addressed to:

Family Promise Donations
Family Promise of Tualatin Valley
11460 SW Pacific Highway
Tigard, OR 97223

The director told me to thank you – she said they received a lot of donations from you after we posted about it during the Snap shutdown – so thank you so very, very, very, VERY much. I’m pretty overwhelmed right now with gratitude to be able to help and to have an online community willing to give. So much love for you for reading, giving, and just being here. Thank you. xx

*After Photos by Kaitlin Green

As someone living in around 1,500 square feet, wishing I had just a little bit more elbow room to move around or have a few dedicated areas for specific needs (my home office, a playroom for my kid, a hobby room for myself and my husband’s special interests), I chuckle at the thought of having enough “dead” space to be pondering what to do with it. However, I know plenty of homes, particularly new builds with excess square footage, have areas that might leave you scratching your head over what its purpose should be. A loft at the top of the stairs, perhaps? A big, empty basement? Maybe even a strange alcove in your primary bedroom, or under your staircase.

There’s also the scenario that you simply don’t need something like a formal dining room, an extra bedroom for guests, or even a full-sized mudroom or laundry room. I love the idea of truly personalizing your home to how you want to and need to use it, which means rethinking what you’re told a room is on a floor plan versus what it could be for you.

So…what can you transform those empty or confusing spots into? Well, I have some pretty fun ideas to explore today. Let’s get those creative neurons firing.

But first, for a little close-to-home inspiration. Remember this bookcase in the upstairs landing of the Portland project Emily designed years ago? It secretly opened up to a hidden playroom with a skylight for light and ventilation:

It was so cool and such a good use of space that otherwise would have gone to waste. Is it big enough for an adult to stand in? No, but the kid-friendly space was a pocket-sized and cozy little play haven that excited everyone who saw it.

Room Rethink #1: Keeping Room

So, let’s say you have a breakfast nook and then a larger dining space right next to it (I’ve seen that in some homes). Or perhaps a den that’s closed off and used more as a space to collect all your random odds and ends. Well, how about you turn it into a keeping room, instead?

I just love the idea of a keeping room, which traditionally was a warm, multi-purpose gathering space in early Colonial homes that was located next to the kitchen where the family would congregate for warmth from the hearth, talk, and do chores while the cook worked. It served as a cozy, informal family room, sometimes also called a hearth room, that was a place to relax, keep company, and even sleep or shelter small animals in winter to take advantage of the heat from the fireplace.

Today, it’s not really a necessity thanks to the marvels of central heating, but having a casual and comfortable little sitting room just off the kitchen to gather, read, or even have small bites and sips is such a charming concept.

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Let’s look at this keeping room that squeezed in a large dining table and a sofa. It’s not often you see a leather tufted couch in the dining and kitchen area mix, but I think having varied seating types like this makes for a really interesting (and useful) arrangement.

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You can even bring some cabinetry over and create an open butler’s pantry or coffee bar, which would be clutch for entertaining in an intimate setting.

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A post shared by Rachel Halvorson (@rachelhalvorson)

While not all keeping rooms need a fireplace anymore, it sure does make things cozy. This whole set up that opens up to an outdoor veranda feels like an entertainer’s dream.

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Here’s a more traditional and rustic keeping room in Leanne Ford’s previous Los Angeles home. As you can spot, it’s just off the kitchen and a simple (but beautiful) landing spot to stay near the action in the absence of a big, open floor plan.

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A post shared by Tammie Price | Simple, Country, Living and Decorating (@ourprairiefarmhousegoods)

This quaint keeping room by Our Prairie Farmhouse Goods makes me want to take up knitting or needlepoint to sit and keep my hands busy (and warm) while someone else makes me some kind of porridge or stew. What a nice-sounding life.

Room Rethink #2: Home Library

Here’s one nearly everyone can fit into their homes one way or another: a library. Now, you might be imagining a Beauty & the Beast expanse, but as you’ll see, all you really need is some empty wall space to achieve this bookworm dream.

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The above home, by Gil Schafer, is very obviously an absolutely gorgeous luxury home, but I love the takeaway of these floor-to-ceiling bookcases. I can imagine this in a landing area between rooms, on one side of a wide hallway or transition space, or even, as I’ll explore in a moment, on one wall of a dining space.

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A post shared by Anthony Rodriguez (@136home)

This whole carousel of images is chock-full of home library inspiration, but the first image is why I included it, because it’s the most realistic for most of us, I believe. I like the idea of building shelving up above the headspace of a small reading nook with a ladder for access. Ideal for a corner in any living space you’re looking to fill with character and purpose.

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A post shared by Mittfunkis | Magdalena (@mittfunkis)

A dining room-meets-library is one of my life goals. Few things feel as lush, lived-in, and character-filled then surrounding your dining table and chairs with multiple bookcases and a cascade of hardbacks and paperbacks.

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A post shared by Jenna (@jennareadsbooks)

Add some closed storage below to check the boxes that a sideboard or credenza otherwise would; they’ll help you stash extra dinnerware, serving platters, linens, small appliances (if you have a small kitchen, as I do), board games, crafts, homework supplies, and beyond.

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A post shared by Elle Hervin (@elle_the_home_bird)

Elle the Home Bird’s dining space proves you don’t need every wall covered in books to have the library impact. One area is more than enough to get the point across.

Room Rethink #3: Cloffice

The “cloffice” (or closet-office) has been a very buzzy term this year in interiors. If you have a whole bedroom to dedicate to it, it’s part clothes storage/dressing room, part office. If you need a work area but don’t have a dedicated room, it can mean sacrificing a small step-in closet to transform it into a desk nook. Either way, I love this clever use of space.

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What a luxury it would be to have a beautiful sitting room-meets-office-meets-walk-in-closet in my home. So many families I know have “man caves” in their homes, but I think it’s time women start claiming some space of their own for their own time away. A cloffice or parlor might tickle your fancy.

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A post shared by Molly Kidd (@mollykiddstudio)

Such a chic cloffice by Molly Kidd Studio. The loungey bench really brings it home, imho.

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A post shared by Noorein Kapoor Design (@nooreinkapoordesign)

This is more closet and vanity than closet and office, but the make-up area by the window could easily be a desk, as well. It reminds me of my days in the beauty and accessories closet at Brides magazine during my summer internship…but with more light because my area was better suited for a hobbit than this masterpiece by Noorein Kapoor Design.

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A post shared by Julia Longchamps Design (@julialongchampsdesign)

If visual clutter prevents you from locking in and focusing, perhaps closet built-ins with doors and drawers would be better for you. Honestly, this makes me think that the giant walk-in closet I had in the Boca Raton apartment I lived in prior to moving to LA could have definitely fit a desk and, with some styling, could have been a wonderful cloffice. Think outside the box!

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A post shared by Amber | Home & DIY (@westonwillow_)

Take that step-in closet in your guest bedroom and tuck in a clever work area! That way, you can fit in a proper bed, as opposed to a pull-out sofa, and still have enough room to move around. Bonus points for going bold with a deep red like Amber from West On Willow did above.

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Oh, and don’t overlook a small closet in an entryway or hallway either. Where there is a will (and need), there is a way!

Room Rethink #4: Quiet Corner

If we’re clever and resourceful, so much of our home can be truly optimized to squeeze in more function. And while I know not everyone is a reader, a quiet corner (or reading nook, whatever you want to call it) can really shake up your day in terms of variety of where you hang around at home.

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If you don’t need the space under your stairs to stash things away, get inspired by this amazing built-in upholstered bench. I can imagine myself tucked in there with my noise-cancelling headphones on, shutting out the responsibility of parenting and partnering for just a few minutes.

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A post shared by Mirko Gentile (@akindofhome)

Gosh, is this so stinking charming. With or without the round, deeply-inset window, creating a window seat and then adding a small pedestal table and another seating option feels like the only way I want to fill a corner in bedrooms and expansive living rooms from now on.

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Another under-the-stairs option with a step-up lounge area. Wrap it in compact bookcases or keep it stripped down, your choice.

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Should you have extra floor space in a spare bedroom or even a loft area, why not extend the idea of a window seat into a window BED? Curtains keep it private and cushy, and I bet you’ll be happy to have this during the holidays when you’re trying to figure out where to pack everyone into.

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Different style, same effect.

Room Rethink #5: Craft Or Hobby Studio

Both my husband and I have some crafty hobbies: I sew on occasion (or pick up random DIY ideas here and there), and he does photography. Having a dedicated studio for both of our pastimes sure does beat him moving everything around in the garage to shoot, and me taking everything off the dining table (which also includes my work setup) every time I want to sew something up.

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Wow-wee, this looks like a proper studio space, but I’m sure you can pull inspiration from it for something more small-scale. An open wood island in the center of a room paired with some wall storage is a genius use of space if you have a hobby like sewing (for cutting your fabrics), scrapbooking (to lay all your pages out), and even gift wrapping.

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A post shared by Lovely Harbor (@lovely.harbor)

Though don’t forget, all you need is about two to three feet of depth in any spot to get something like the above. And while you may see a sewing machine, just replace that with whatever your desired hobby might be: journalling, sketching, clay modeling, pen paling…whatever.

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A post shared by Sean Symington (@seansymington)

Another center-island idea. The adjustable chair makes it so that you can either stand or sit, which is a really nice option to have if your hobby or craft keeps you popping up or plopping down.

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A post shared by Karina Jambrak ✍🏽 Australian Artist (@karina_jambrak)

Art studio much?? What a beautiful use of a converted attack space or room above the garage. I think we’re so quick to think about creating areas for guests whenever the few times a year they come, that we forget to prioritize our own needs and desires that occupy the majority of your home’s time.

Room Rethink #6: Speakeasy

And lastly, I give it up to our gal Mallory for helping me think of this one. Cheers to you, Mal, for helping us realize even a tiny broom closet can turn into a sexy, secret speakeasy.

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Case in point. Don’t miss her reveal of this space in her apartment here.

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Not a big reader? Skip the book nook and go all-in on a hidden bar. And don’t skip the luxe materials, because they are really what make these compact spirit closets feel extra special.

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Or perhaps you have a whole basement to contend with? Pull inspiration from your favorite favorite or cocktail bar and just scale it down to fit the size you are working with. Punchy tile floors, saturated color drenching, and even some fun signage will get you there.

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A post shared by Kate Pearce | Interior Designer + Blogger (@katepearcevintage)

Another home bar by a great person to follow, Kate Pearce Vintage. If I were scrolling quickly, I’d think this was in the lobby of a hotel.

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It’s giving secret hideaway. (Click through to see how well the door to this home bar fits into the wall paneling.) Oh, and remember: Just as Emily created a hidden playroom, you can take this speakeasy concept and apply it to anything your heart desires. I find everything feels extra cool when it has an element of a secret passageway.

Until next time, friends…

Opening Image Credits: Design by Mallory Wackerman | Photos by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: Mallory’s Speakeasy Reveal

Whenever I leave for a trip, I really try to clean my house really well. I’m talking sheets laundered, bed made, every room vacuumed, surfaces wiped down, you get it. I tell myself that “Future Jess” is going to be so happy. And surprise, Future Jess is ALWAYS extremely grateful that Past Jess made her life so easy and nice when she gets home. The same principle could apply to you right now. There could be a couple of things you’ve been wanting to add or upgrade, but they’ve been pushed down the list. Think now of crossing those things off, while saving money, and all before the start of the new year! Future You would likely be unbelievably happy and grateful. So today, we’re looking at Wayfair’s pretty wonderful End of Year Clearance Sale to round up some of these simple but very impactful easy home upgrades. I mean, up to 60% off and fast shipping, while checking off “want to do” boxes is a Christmas present in and of itself. Let’s get into it.

There are not many of us who couldn’t benefit from some more storage… especially really beautiful storage. I LOVE both of these cabinets, and if I had the space, would happily have one in my home. Plus, both of these cabinets offer open and closed storage. That means you can show off your pretty things and hide away the items that are best kept out of sight until they are needed. I know arches have been all the rage, but both of these feel so classic that they will seamlessly work stylistically for many years to come. Oh, and did I mention that they are HEAVILY on sale and each comes in three different wood tones? So yes, this is such a smart (and pretty) purchase to make your 2026 start on the right foot.

Remember when Mallory had the genius idea to use storage benches as her banquette seating in her studio apartment? Well, it looked so good, but they definitely weren’t inexpensive. Luckily for all of us, Wayfair has a nearly identical option for a fraction of the price! It also comes in black and white oak and is under $300. See? I told you it was good! Again, the more storage the better, and these would make great dining benches, a perfect entry bench, and awesome in a bedroom. So many uses and options.

Do you have a room that needs both an architectural feature and some soundproofing? These wall panels are for you. Practically every home I’ve lived in before this one hasn’t had great insulation, meaning sound travels. These are a very cool and chic way to help that problem! Maybe if you’re getting your kids an instrument for the holidays, consider getting these as a present for you to help dampen their practising:) Everyone wins!

If you’ve looked into good Roman shades, then you know they can cost A LOT. Enter these thermal, blackout, cordless shades that are 68% off. So basically, you are getting really awesome shades that come in a bunch of colors and size options for such an incredible deal. The reviews are also really great, so I highly suggest you check these out. And I can tell you from experience, your room will feel different in the best way when you add window treatments.

A new rug makes a room feel brand new, guaranteed and we really love this one! A little color so it’s not too neutral but not too bright to distract. The perfect modern traditional rug, if you ask me.

I know we are practically in winter, so prepping your outdoor space for the spring sooner rather than later (especially if you have some time off around the new year) isn’t a bad idea. These wood tiles are such a great way to personalize and make your outdoor space look more polished. I used something similar on my balcony and still love it. The wood is so pretty that there’s no need to paint them, like I did with mine, but it’s also an option if you want.

Move over, garage fridge, and hello, refrigerator drawers! A true dream of mine, if I ever own a home. These are great because they can be freestanding or easily integrated into your cabinets if you are renovating. Emily has them in her mountain house and her farmhouse, if that tells you anything:) Oh, and they are 68% off…

Speaking of fridges, maybe this is the year you finally get that freestanding beverage fridge. If you are like me and are renting, this may be the more practical option to the drawers I was just talking about. But of course, you can be a homeowner and get one too:) As an avid beverage consumer, this would undoubtedly level up my 2026. Did I mention it’s under $200??

And finally, if you don’t really “need” anything but are looking for a small but impactful upgrade (especially for those cold winter nights), warm light light bulbs are a game-changer. These ones are a bit more decorative and have a vintage feel, but that only makes them better in my book. A quick, affordable fix. Isn’t that the best kind??

So while I don’t want anyone to feel pressure to upgrade their homes, sometimes making small changes (particularly when the deals are so good) is just a nice thing to do for yourself. With that said, we highly recommend checking out Wayfair’s End of Year Clearance Sale that’s happening until January 1st. Great pieces for awesome prices that will get to you fast.

Opening Image Credits: Design by Mallory Wackerman | Styled by Emily Bowser | Photo by Veronica Crawford | From: A Full Look Inside Mal’s 500 Sqft Resort-Like Hollywood Oasis

Since we’re here at the near end of 2025 (and with it being the holiday season), we thought one more post helping a few of our beloved readers and followers (you all:)) with your real life design problems was the least we could do. We truly appreciate you all more than we could ever say, and if you could help each and every one of you, we would! Unfortunately, we don’t have the bandwidth for that, so hopefully these 4 examples will inspire you and give you the energy you’ve been looking for to get that project you’ve been putting off finally done. I think we’d all like to start 2026 in a better place if we can, right? So let’s just get right to it, shall we?

Wallpaper Combo Drama

Here’s what our first reader/follower is asking for help with:

“I want to do a fun but timeless wallpaper in my living room (and small entryway) that “go” together, but there are 1 million options, and I can’t decide. I have about 60 samples rn. I also have mostly looked for peel-and-stick options that I can do myself, and also because I like to change things up. Anyway- here are a few pics…and I obviously didn’t clean up before I took them. Oh- and my style/aesthetic is a mixed bag. Modern/ a little traditional/ cottage? Idk .”

First off, we can all agree that this is a beautiful home! But we have wallpaper combos to suggest. So there are a few things that struck me right off the bat.

• This home has a very clear neutral color palette, so that’s what I’m going to lean into.
• Since it’s so neutral, going fairly bold color-wise will likely feel way too visually overwhelming.

Next, here are the rules I was using/she can use if what I put together doesn’t speak to her:

• Mix different pattern scales – large with medium, large with small, medium with small (that way they don’t visually compete).
• Go bolder either with color or pattern in the entry since it’s a small and more contained space (plus it’s fun as the first impression when you walk in!)
• Not a rule, but I like to mix an organic pattern with a more geometric pattern (as you will clearly see lol). It makes the two spaces feel dynamic and different (but also two organic patterns or two geometric ones can also be awesome. It all just depends on the actual designs).

Verte in Mink | Charles Street Stripe

I took a risk and went with this amazing mink-colored floral wallpaper for the entry. It’s rich but not so much that I think you’d get sick of it fast. I also love the hits of blue and amber in it! Also, it’s a Kelly Ventura design (which we used one of her papers in Kaitlin’s bedroom), so we can attest to the quality. The striped paper is by Jeremiah Brent (whose taste is unmatched). It was also a Domino Good Design Award winner this year! We love a neutral stripe, but this one is a little deeper in tone (which holds up to the entry wallpaper) and is textured, which adds so much warmth.

Lush Grove in Light Blue | Cream Stripes

Another risk, haha! As you are all likely very aware, blue is a neutral to us, and the variations of blue tones in this paper are so soft but lush (hence the name). Another bolder option for the entry, which I then paired with a much softer, creamy stripe for the living room. Emily used a soft stripe for her stairs at the farmhouse, and it’s the perfect amount of interest without taking over.

Pimpernel in Vintage White | French Stripes in Antique White

Now, for the actual neutrals, since that’s what it looks like she’s going for, given the samples in her entry. The first two examples also had mixed scale patterns, but this one is very clear. I again like the “bolder pattern” for the entry. This floral is so elegant and whimsical. Then, for a very small-scale stripe (sorry, I know they each have stripes), I love this one. If any of you are worried that stripes might be a lot, remember that large (especially large-scale) is important to add to any wallpapered wall to break up the pattern visually. I do think that these could easily be swapped in terms of location, too!

Cream Stripes | Wilhelm in Gray

Lastly, I really love this creamy stripe, so I used it one more time because it looked so good with this stunning mural. Speaking of Jeremiah (and husband Nate Berkus), many of their projects and personal homes have murals like this…but hand-painted. That’s something to aspire to, but for now, this peel-and-stick mural is so so beautiful, and I think it would look AMAZING in this follower’s living/dining room.

Hope this was helpful! Onto the next…

Vintage Kitchen Refresh

It’s a tricky place to be in when you want to make a room, like a kitchen, better, but also have plans to renovate sooner rather than later. That’s the dilemma here. Let’s see what they are looking for help with…

“We have a small 50s kitchen that I think was last renovated in the 70s. We bought the house 7 years ago and have just never known what to do with the kitchen. We are now at a place where there is a good chance we are going to add on to the house and in that case we would add on a new, larger kitchen. Because of this, we have decided we just want something temporary that will hold us over until we do a big addition or renovation. 

Attached are some images of my space. We just put in some peel-and-stick floor tiles, so I have attached photos from before the peel-and-stick and after as well. My style is kind of all over the place. I like mid-century but also Scandinavian and basically everything in between. I think two prime examples of my style are the River House that Emily designed, as well as Kaitlin’s living room. Those spaces are pretty spot on with the style I gravitate towards and similar to what the rest of my house looks like. 

As far as budget, because this is a temporary fix, we are trying to keep it REALLY low. We are open to doing peel-and-stick tiles and stuff just to keep it low. We really want to keep it under $1500 for everything. We already spent a little under $200 on the peel-and-stick floors.”

Ok, those inspo project references are so helpful! Let’s get to work! I really love those new floor tiles, so that’s a great first step. The main culprit, and what will make the biggest difference, is painting the cabinet and changing the hardware. But let’s jump right into my first mood board so you can follow my thought process more easily.

Ceiling Fan | Flushmount | Rug | Wall Shelf | Pegboard | Light Oak Handles and Knobs

Here are my initial thoughts. I think that they should paint that whole cabinet wall and the cabinets a deep green (highly recommend using Samplize to see what green looks best in the room before buying any paint). It will make that wall look really cohesive, purposeful, and the black hinges will also not be so contrasting. Then updating the hardware will instantly make the room feel more elevated and designed (plus with light oak handles, very much give MCM/Scandi and echo the two projects of ours she mentioned:)) Updating the flushmount and ceiling fan will also really dial in the design, and I love adding in a little brass to brighten things up, too. As for the two “shelf” options that would go above the stove, I love the light oak and brass one because it ties in both the hardware and the flushmount, but depending on budget, that black pegboard is large, $30, and great for hanging pots, pans, etc. That rug also feels in the River House/Kaitlin’s Living Room world, goes, with the cabinets, nicely contrasts the tiles in style and pattern scale, and it’s only $119 for a 4×6. So many wins! Everything here should add up to under $900 (as long as they don’t have to hire out for labor), meaning they have a few hundred more dollars for accessories:)

Here’s a part AI, part Photoshop mockup to show the impact of making those few updates! Not too bad, right?! Actually, really pretty:) In terms of the other walls’ colors, I think they should either go all white or all the warm tan they used. Simplifying will really help with overall cohesion. But what’s a kitchen without great accessories??

ART: (Starting Top Left Clockwise) Abstract Objects Print | La Poire – Wisterias Print | Sylvia Takken – In Bloom 2.0 Print | Shatha Al Dafai – Delicate Bloom 10 Print | In the Market Print
ACCESSORIES: (Starting Top Left Clockwise) Moon Face Vine Dinner Plate | Hand-Blown Wine Goblet (Set of 2) | Stainless Steel Salt and Pepper Shakers | Large Wooden Serving Board | Hale Tea Towel | Striped Footed Bowl | Marble Utensil Holder

I went for mostly really affordable options, but if they got all of these items (plus frames for the art), they would likely go over budget. So these can also be more inspo/a long-term plan for when they are shopping or even thrifting! Let’s start with the art. This color palette is rich and warm, and ties in all of the colors they would have in their kitchen. I based the style mostly on Kaitlin’s art in her living room, and all of it is from Desenio because their art is really pretty and so affordable. I would vary the sizing and go big! Large art looks really intentional and awesome. In terms of accessories, I kept things in the same color palette, made their there was a good mix of different materials and cool shapes.

The only other addition/swap I might make if the budget and measurements allowed would be to add something like this 5-tier shelving unit in place of the yellow bar cart. There’s nothing wrong with the cart, but the height and scale might look more intentional and also add more space for styling and storage space, especially with cute baskets. Just an idea:)

A Half-Designed Dining Room

Oh man, can I relate to a half-designed space and the stress that can bring. I’m here and happy to help!

“Basically, my dining room is half-designed, but looking to round out the rest. I’ve been looking for a sideboard to complement our IKEA Morbylanga dining table and fill out this left empty wall. Looking to up the design ante a bit (i.e., I don’t want MORE IKEA stuff). The room faces east with a fantastic hillside view but has weak overhead lighting, so envisioning a sideboard/lamp situation (?) and guessing we need a rug to anchor the space. Especially since there’s a lot of wood going on. We host 20ish people for dinner here regularly (we just add more tables to the end lengthwise), so a sideboard space to put down drinks, etc, would be nice, but also don’t want it to get too tight—so flexible and not-bulky is ideal.

Design style/aesthetic: Welcoming and inviting, modern/MCM, clean, fresh, comfortable (adjacent living room photo attached for reference)
Budget: Not huge! Would love to keep everything under $1500 if possible. We also have kids and host kids, so nothing too precious. Not looking for heirlooms :).”

Ok, now that we know the needs, here are my suggestions!

First off, I’m curious what the space would look like with the other two walls painted the blue color. Doing that might make it feel more like its own unique room? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments:) Second, I’d suggest having the curtains hemmed so that they “kiss” the floor instead of puddling. That look can totally work, but I feel with a more modern design, that tailored hem makes a bit more sense. There’s always the option to use hemming tape if she doesn’t want to pay to get them hemmed. My last suggestion before I get into the products I chose is to only use one of the floor lamps instead of two. Symmetry is, of course, great, but I think sticking with the one in the corner by the art is going to feel better once a sideboard and accessories are on the other wall.

Solid Wood Tray | Sideboard (Set of 2) | Ancien Cream Vase | Rug | Kelly Wearstler: Synchronicity Book | Design of the 20th Century Book | Dark Blue Taper Candles | Light Blue Taper Candles | Weylyn Candelabra | Black Ceramic Pedestal Bowl

Here’s what I came up with. First off, I chose a really affordable rug (from our old line) so that with all the kids and company over, the host wouldn’t be too freaked out by any messes. It’s also got a great stripe pattern which nicely contrasts with the more organic pattern on the curtains. Then I know a sideboard was the main request, so I found this sideboard set for under $600 that’s over 90″ long! It was important to me to have a solid base (aka no legs) since the table and chairs have so many. Visual balance:) I also chose black wood to complement the chairs, but contrast the wood color and fluted detailing to work with the rug’s stripes. If it’s not clear, it was a very intentional choice:) To decorate the top of the sideboard, I chose that big wood tray (again, for wood contrast) and that modern white vase with some delicate detailing. I also really wanted a cool candelabra, which is likely the most “precious” item, but with some museum putty, I’m sure it would be safe. To then make sure it all wasn’t too colorless, I added those light and dark blue taper candles. It’s an easy and affordable way to add color and playfulness! Naturally, I had to include some modern design books of varying sizes to stack, and then finally a simple but beautiful black footed bowl for the table. Nothing too crazy, but will make an awesome difference, and I believe I’m under budget:)

Home Finishing Touches

This one was pretty fun to play with, but let me let the reader explain first:

“Our style is a mix, I guess. I love organic, color, old, and new mixed together. I do have a 10-year-old girl who loves to flip all around the house, and an 8-year-old son who plays with Legos a lot and builds things. So soft, comfortable, and easy to clean, a must.

The couch is new from the Arhaus outlet. It is the Amira sofa, color cinnamon fabric, velvet, and is 90”. The chairs are from my grandmother and are currently as you see in silk washable fabric. Willing to switch out. The main walls are all Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore at 25% lighter. FYI, we will be painting kitchen cupboards, just haven’t confirmed yet. But leaning towards a blue color (similar to the blue in the peacock in the wallpaper) to go with the wallpaper. We love color. In the dining room, we have the Emerald peacock Rifle Paper Co. wallpaper, and the trim is Tricorn Black by Sherwin-Williams. I would love to bring dining room colors into the living room somehow. Maybe have a light, rug, curtains entry table for more storage for kids’ gloves. Idk. Whatever you think. And no, we haven’t gotten a table for the dining room yet. Waiting for Arhaus Perry to come to the outlet store in brown. But if I find something else, I would purchase. The budget for each room would be no more than $5k for each.”

See? Exciting! Here are my initial thoughts. I agree that more of the dining room colors need to come into the living area for balance. I am also pro pulling the blue from the wallpaper and painting the built-in in that. That will look so great. Then, full transparency, I’m a little over budget (more so with the living room, but there are ways to get closer to her goal!) Let’s start with the living space.

Blue Pillow | Holly Cushion Cover | Wool Two-Tone Throw | Sofa | Floor Lamp | Storage Ottoman | Rug | Curtains | Accent Chair | Stump Side Table | Burgundy Pillow | Woven Baskets (Set of 4) | Entryway Console Bar | Red Table Lamp

I put in the sofa to really get a full picture in the mood board. Let’s talk rug first. I love green and how much richness (but not too much) it adds. It’s washable and from a company that both me and my cousin with a dog and a baby swear by. I’m also thinking those lines could act as race tracks for little cars?? The ottoman has storage, the top can flip to be cushioned or flat for playing, and is made in a performance fabric. Plus, I love how the lighter sand colored fabric breaks up the color of the sofa and the rug and complements the lighter stripes in the accent chairs. Now, I really like the accent chairs she has, but the white fabric is a little stark compared to all of those warm and rich colors. Plus, I love the idea of a pattern! However, these aren’t cheap, and they aren’t performance. It was my one “form over function” decision, but maybe they would be totally ok!? They are just sooooo good. The stump side table was to add to what she already has in the room. Before we move to textiles, I am just so in love with that floor lamp. It’s a Paul McCobb, and since she said she also likes old things, this kinda falls in that category. And with so many curves, it’s nice to have a really angular piece in the room.

Textiles? I like the idea of having a pillow a similar color to what the built-in is going to be to tie it in. But she also mentioned they love color and that checkered lumbar is an Emily/EHD favorite and really speaks to the total color palette. I then didn’t want to get too color crazy, so I chose a quieter, but still rich, throw blanket. For the chairs, I don’t think she could go wrong with those round burgundy pillows. The curtains, I think, need to be dark for visual balance, and since the velvet is on the other side of the room, why not more? These navy velvet ones are so perfect. In a dream world, she would buy four (two on each side) so they feel full and maybe even custom, but they also aren’t cheap.

Her last request was an entry table, but I’m not sure I got measurements for that, so I took a guess and really loved this table. It’s simple with elegant details, with a drawer and space underneath for the necessary storage baskets. And why not finish it off with a fun, modern red lamp!? Let me show you the dining room, and then you can give me all of your thoughts:)

Dining Chairs | Dining Table | Rug | Curtains | Sideboard | Table Lamp

TADA! Another beautiful washable rug that my cousin owns and uses under her dining table, so I feel even more confident recommending it. Then, to keep the color as a priority, I chose those velvet green dining chairs. Maybe controversial, but velvet isn’t too bad to clean, and they are stunning. I couldn’t seem to find the Arhaus dining table she was talking about, so I chose yet another Pierce & Ward piece from their West Elm collab. Not sure if this table will be their taste, but I love it (clearly, ha). It just looks so interesting and special. Then, since that nook is fairly dark with the wallpaper, I like the idea of doing a tan curtain in a linen to offset the velvet, too. These are the same curtains Caitlin used in her living room, and she still raves about the quality and insanely affordable price. Finally, I felt like a sideboard was a good idea, and this one is perfect. The undertones of the wood doors to the dining table seem to be the same, and I love the black outside and how it complements the wallpaper. The final piece is that marble lamp, because why not?! It’s cool, a little unexpected, and functional. I really like these two room ideas a lot and hope the reader does too!!

So now let’s hear your thoughts! Any feelings? Suggestions? Let’s chat! And thank you to everyone who submitted, and hopefully to those of you who were chosen, I truly hope this was helpful<3

Love you, mean it.

Opening Image Credits: Design by Emily Henderson and Sarah Weldon | Styled by Emily Henderson and Emily Bowser | Photo by Steven Mcdonald | From: The Prettiest Green And Pink Kitchen Remodel That We Completed In 7 WEEKS

Did you hear about this Pantone color of the year thing?” my non-design-focused husband asked me the other night. His feeds are wildly different than mine, full of photography tutorials, comedy Reels, and nostalgic content; so for Pantone to have made its way into his algorithm tells me all I need to know this year: Everyone is talking about it, for better or for worse.

If you’re as clueless about this as my husband was last year without the viral chatter, Pantone—an international authority on all things color—chooses a “Color of the Year” every December. Since 1999, many other companies, from paint brands to home siding manufacturers, have followed suit, none more awaited than Pantone. Their selected hue for the upcoming calendar year speaks to the intersection of culture, current events, and design. So, while you may see a velvety peach as a choice (like we did in 2024 from them), it might not mean that soft oranges are trending in the traditional sense, but more so that the “mood” of our world, through their lens, matches their pick. Their language used around the shades often sounds like this (from 2024): “PANTONE 13-1023, or Peach Fuzz, fosters a sense of closeness and connection, acting as a balm in times of uncertainty.”

In a moment of upheaval, discord, and change, fraught with what feels like an epidemic of selfishness and a distancing from the greater good by authority figures (not to mention, though unrelated, a move toward maximalism and an explosion of color and patterns in our homes lately), Pantone decided to choose…

White.

PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer to be exact: “A lofty white that serves as a symbol of calming influence in a society rediscovering the value of quiet reflection.” Hmm…interesting choice of words.

I’m not the only one who took a moment and thought “uh…what?” Almost as if an Amber Alert went off on all of our phones and we collectively got to work sharing our not-so-quiet reflections on our social platforms, my feeds exploded with stunned and salty opinions. At best, Cloud Dancer feels lazy; at worst, at least according to some enflamed posters, tone deaf and even in support of an “all-whites” agenda.

The Reactions & Rejections

Let’s take a look at some of the strong feelings heard around the interwebs.

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I admit, initially, I let the outrage fuel me. I saw someone write that the noise around the color is louder than the color itself, which was spot on. After sitting with it for a few days, I decided that, for me, it’s simply uninspiring. Those copywriters had to work overtime trying to find a way to make white—and mind you, a boring middle-of-the-road white with no leanings to warm or cool—sound interesting. Here are quotes from two figureheads over at Pantone, and boy, I’ve never seen so many creative words used to describe landlord white:

The product collaborations attached to this release are even more ironic-chuckle-inducing. There’s white Play-Doh. A white mug. A white keychain. A white notebook. Joybird, which has been releasing a special Pantone COTY collab line in recent years, launched…white furniture. You mean, what they already had lying around in the warehouse, perhaps that they just renamed to Joybird x Cloud Dancer? It’s just silly.

Is Pantone Just Rage Baiting Us?

I even saw an article by Allure (yes, the beauty/women’s lifestyle mag), questioning if the choice was just intended to be rage bait. To reignite people’s attention and feelings around the Color of the Year conversation that has felt a bit stale in the last few years. Frankly, the last time it felt interesting to me was in 2016 when they launched the first “we couldn’t decide” pairing of Rose Quartz and Serenity. And I can almost guarantee that everyone will be watching next year to see how far it swings away from Cloud Dancer. Genius marketing and PR move or just obnoxious? (I’m leaning toward the latter; don’t act like you’re trying to say something about stillness and calm if your actual intent was to poke at the embers of society, you know?)

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But something I’m working on in myself recently is remaining curious rather than jumping to assumptions. What if, indeed, Pantone, was looking for a clean slate? Intentional restraint from all the noise *everywhere* and *everything.* Sure, “white” is kind of insulting in its simplicity for something of this nature, but last year was brown (Mocha Mousse). Personally, I know that my entire spirit is fatigued for many reasons, so perhaps the void that a color like Cloud Dancer creates is a quiet fortress of solitude that is very much needed right now for some of us to escape from constant distraction.

Does it make for exciting product releases? Absolutely not. Some of them are maddeningly mind-numbing, such as the Cloud Dancer white wallpaper—pictured being applied on top of a white wall—from an artist on Spoonflower. In previous years, the brand released very fun prints in partnership with the color authority (here is last year’s); this year? Nothing officially, just whatever the third-party artists have done themselves…and I don’t blame them. As a design editor, my inbox is always jammed with outreach by PR people sharing products from their clients in shades similar to the COTY, hoping I include them in a roundup about the announcement. This year, I got two messages. TWO. Talk about a blank slate….for my Gmail account. It quieted the noise in that sense, that’s for sure.

What Does Cloud Dancer Say For Interiors In 2026 & Beyond?

Because this is a design blog and not the Op Ed section of your chosen newspaper, I want to offer up some interiors-focused conversation, as well. For instance, when I brought up this topic to Emily, her initial quandary was: “Does this mean clean and bright interiors might make a comeback? And, even more controversial, are cooler whites going to prevail over the dominant warm white in 2026?” I don’t know, but it does match the natural progression of things. I think warm neutrals still have some juice left in their fruits to squeeze, likely for another three to four years. But then what happens? Well, people flip to the opposite spectrum. No more warm undertones, all in on cool whites and grays, just as it happened in the early 2000s. We went from cherry red woods and brown and beige everything to millennial gray and contemporary whites. Time will tell, I suppose.

Until we get there—LORD PLEASE LET’S NOT GO BACK THERE—I wanted to celebrate some selected colors of the year from other companies that feel like the people sitting in the room making the decisions were not trying to enrage us, but rather inspire us.

Let’s start with Coloro x WGSN, who released their 2026 COTY back in 2024, and have just announced their 2027 hue. Yup, they work that far ahead, unlike some of the other brands, given their nature. WGSN is a trend forecasting authority that heavily drives product manufacturing, while Coloro is a color expert, so the two come together to pick a singular Color of the Year.

For 2026, they went with Transformative Teal, which is absolutely luminous. The kind of color you can’t take your eyes off of; that you dream of being bold enough to use in some capacity. It’s rich, dramatic, and timeless in the right application. Take a look:

Can you imagine that on a hand-glazed tile in a bathroom?!? As a border accent on a fabulous rug? It says something, unlike ::cough cough:: basic white.

Now, onto 2027 for WGSN x Coloro. Get ready, because if Transformative Teal spoke volumes, the next one has a megaphone in hand.

Feast your eyes on Luminous Blue. ::stands up; applauds; hoots and hollers:: Look, making a claim to a color of the year is far beyond what color we’re painting our walls, okay? You might see this International Klein Blue-esque shade and think “not for me or my home,” but it goes well beyond the walls you surround yourself with. It informs fashion, packaging, product design, branding, and marketing. Something like this is not quickly forgotten, and isn’t that worthy of celebration?

This third color, Divine Damson by Graham & Brown, is yet another intense jewel tone, and I’m making no apologies for it. Rather than quiet reflection and going inward like Cloud Dancer claims to want us to do, I think we should all be living our truest, most daring version of ourselves. No more fakery, no more shrinking. Be authentically you; sure, that might be a person who feels most stable in a bright and neutral room, but it could also be a person who wants to be hugged by mulberry-meets-garnet burgundies.

And finally, in an honorable mention position, is Behr’s Hidden Gem. This was the first COTY announced this year from the paint company heavy hitters, and I’ve gotta tell you, I wasn’t overwhelmed with emotion when I saw it. Mostly because I feel like I’ve been seeing it for a while now. It didn’t feel new or fresh or forward-thinking. Unlike Transformative Teal that has an incredible depth to it, this one is chalky and milky. It’s beautiful, sure (I had walls in a very similar color years ago by Farrow & Ball), but it’s expected.

HOWEVER, I’ll still take it over Cloud Dancer, and for that, it made my list. It’s soothing and welcoming and pensive, and, from a design perspective, works beautifully with tons of other shades; I’m partial to warm-leaning colors like the olive in the chairs above.

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So that my friends, brings me to the end of my rant about color. Based on how many articles and posts have come out on the same subject, some might say Pantone has won. The most genius Public Relations move; but I don’t like feeling as if I’ve been had, so for that, I’m a hard no on Cloud Dancer.

I’d love to hear your insights, thoughts, comments (angry or happy or otherwise), and especially anything I’ve missed or haven’t taken into consideration. What are you seeing that I’m not? Let’s keep talking about it.

Until next time, friends…

*Opening Image Credits: Photo courtesy of Pantone