Emily Henderson's Blog, page 103

Emily Bowser’s Back Unit Yard REVEAL, 2022 Musings, New Year Resolutions, And Other Meanderings…

Hello everyone! I’m writing this during my most favorite time of the year, the week between Christmas and New Year’s when no one should put on hard pants, open an email, or walk outside. Unless, of course, you’re walking into your perfectly styled backyard that we will be looking at today. 

I am using the time to catch up on rest. This year has been a doozy. For the Bowser’s it has been a year of grinding and grinding and feeling like you’re getting nowhere. On top of that, our cat Gremmy went missing for 6 long weeks and Daffy, my most precious love (also a cat) had a terrifying and expensive brush with death. You know that feeling like you’re digging a hole but like, someone is behind you kicking the dirt back in? That’s been 2022. In exciting news, my husband got his movie into Sundance. Yes. The movie he was famously getting ready for in this room got into the biggest film festival in North America:

Sundance is a really big deal. Huge. Really happy and proud and excited for him BUT a fun thing for ME is that we are going to be quarantining starting Jan 1 so we don’t get sick before we leave on the 17th which basically means this boxing day/week will extend until the 17th! I’m being forced to NOT WORK! I mean, that’s not totally true, I worked on a project with William Hunter Collective over this year and I will be sourcing from home for another one to make ends meet as well as finishing up my kitchen reveal (waiting on one last thing before I can shoot – lead times AM I RIGHT?) and writing a few blog posts for you all. But does it count as work if you’re not wearing hard pants and your cat is on your lap?? The answer is yes, but in comparison to my 2022 – no.

I’ve been mostly off for the past couple of weeks as production always slows down during the holiday season but I’m still vibrating with the anxieties of these past couple of years. I’m excited to enjoy my home, catch up, and reset for 2023. This is also my birthday week, which as a young person was a bit of a bummer but as an adult, it has been the best. No one bothers you, I never have a job, and it’s a great time to reflect and re-evaluate. I know logically that nothing has to fundamentally change because you turn a year older or because the calendar flips to a new year, but I’ve always loved the idea of a fresh start and I have quite a few half-used planners to prove it.

~Resolution #1: Don’t buy another planner. Do. Not. It will not fix your ADD and will only bring you shame whenever you come across it.~

Let’s get into this sweet little rental reveal, shall we? When I last talked to you about my back house’s backyard (BHBY) I had written half of it when Daffy had a massive seizure, continued to have seizures for days, and I lost all sense of self and time and then I guess I finished it? Honestly, it’s a blur. It’s amazing how these little creatures affect our lives so wholly. My friend Lauren dropped everything and flew to be with me because we had always “joked” how she would need to do that if something happened to Daffy. I do not know how I could have gotten through the next few days without her. She sat with me and stared into the horizon, she helped me build the Veradek planters that came for this shoot, went with me to the flea market to find a bar/console for this space, she drove with me to the fabric district to find last minute upholstery fabric for the WH project. She’s a real one, be a friend like Lauren. Also, big thanks to everyone who gave to Daffy’s GoFundMe, it has been very helpful in alleviating some of the financial stress. The update for those interested is that I am in the appeal process with the pet insurance company that denied me the first time around. BUT I am happy to report that Daffy is soundly snoring in the window next to me, and is only maybe a teensy bit brain-damaged? We are thankful and so happy that she is still a sweet girl who enjoys her life, loves treats, and I think maybe even likes Gremmy a little more than she used to, which is the biggest blessing in all of this. Live shot of a sleeping Daffy:

I got off track, the point is: I’m not sure I remember everything I said in that post and I’m scared to re-read it as I’m not sure if it will be triggering. I know I talked about all the different spaces and I tackled most of them. I am the person here to remind you that projects take lots of time and money and you are not going to be able to do it all overnight unless (and maybe not even if) it is your literal job. It may surprise some of you but this is not mine, in fact, these projects cost me quite a bit of money but we’ll get into costs in a bit. Anyway, life got wild so, for example, the sunshade idea got cut because the sun isn’t high enough this time of year for it to be an immediate problem. I had a great idea for an herb garden in the area I called “1” (photo below for reference) but I missed planting season and it would have required more money from me to finish the job well. I ended up tackling spaces 3, 4, 5, and 6. The good news is that when spring comes we will check back in to see how everything is growing and how the rest of the spaces turned out.

Before we get into the super fun stuff, let’s talk about the boring, time-consuming, frustrating, and costly things. My forte really 🙂

Although I would love to get new fencing around our entire property, I don’t have the funds for that at the moment so I decided to stain the fence myself which I 100% do not recommend:) It was time-consuming and my quads hurt for days. I would go out from 6 am-8 am and then work all day, come home and stain more by bistro light. It does look better though and should help while we wait for wood prices to go down (please dear Lord). Because I did the work myself and I had leftover stain, the cost wasn’t too high (financially anyway). I used English Chestnut by Minwax because, well, that’s what I had. They’re about $50/gallon and I ended up needing to buy an extra gallon. This isn’t a long-term solution, something that I just need to last me a couple of years so I did nothing except power wash the fence and then apply the stain. 

before staining | after staining

After staining I couldn’t stand the color of the concrete. I wanted something browner with more texture so that dirt would hide better. Ok, also because I totally got stain all over the ground and needed to cover it up. I did some research and decided to go with Behr Granite Grip in Tan and I have some information for you: don’t do it unless you are RICH. It is so expensive and you need like 5 times more than you think you would need. I finally just had to stop after 4 coats because it’s $300 for 5 gallons and it does not go far. Annoyingly after spending $1200 on paint (that’s TWENTY gallons) and $1000 to have someone else paint it for days because it took so many more coats than expected (and because I was slammed with work at the time) it still looks…meh. It’s better for sure but you can see a hint of blue underneath. We put on one more coat after this was taken, but as you can see the paint is way more texture than color.

I would recommend being a) rich or b) painting the base much closer to what you want and then adding the texture on top. I guess we will have to put more coats on it eventually? In my estimation, it needs another $900 of paint and I would probably just do it myself to save on labor. I’ve also wondered what would happen if I just painted something close to the tan on top? Anybody have any experience with this product? We are now in our rainy season so I’ll revisit this in the spring. 

The other major cost that I underestimated was the cost of dirt/plants/irrigation for these Veradek planters. The very good thing about these planters is that they are huge, 32” tall, 42” wide, and 16” deep. They have a shelf inside that is removable. You can use the shelf to use less dirt and have the plant appear taller, or you can remove and use the entire space for dirt and allow bigger plants to really take root. I wanted massive planters because for each space I needed the plants to be able to mature. As you may remember, a big part of taking on this project was to cover up an unsightly neighbor’s roof situation (as you can see from the photos of the fence above). In the dining area, I wanted to break up the black walls of the house with greenery and along the neighbor’s fence on the right side of the property (area 1, 2, & 3) I wanted to plant something that would grow big enough to cover the backside of the fence. I also wanted to add as much greenery as possible to a space that is covered in concrete. Irrigation was also a must so that my tenants wouldn’t have to worry about caring for the plants and I wouldn’t have to let myself into their space on a regular basis. Plus I have ADD, out of sight out of mind. Those plants would be dead in a week if I was in charge of watering them. The bad news is this was not a cheap feat – especially because I wanted immediate results.  

As we talk boring numbers, let’s take a break and look at how nice it all turned out. We had 5 large Veradek planters total and used 3 of them in the very back living room area (number 6 on the map) and we put 2 – 15 gallon ficus (same as the hedge in my backyard) in each planter. 

Sectional and Coffee Table | Outdoor Lanterns | Side Table | Privacy Screens | Planters

Oooooo ahhhhhhh!!

Look how little of that roof we see now! So much better. As you can see, the ficus is huge. The privacy screens from Veradek are very tall (100” to be exact) and the ficuses are a good 2 feet taller than the privacy screens. Ok, now that the blow has been softened, 6 – 15 gallon ficus with dirt and install cost $1400. The cost of adding a zone of irrigation for these planters was $1100. Not a cheap situation. HOWEVER, this is now a pleasant area to spend time in that was formerly not being used – and that is priceless. These privacy screens are a game changer. They are heavy-duty and I‘m not a bit scared of them tipping over. They bring so much visual interest to the space while creating both privacy and a sense of coziness – it feels like you are in a living room. It’s obviously not *just* the planters. Article’s gorgeous (and durable!) outdoor sectional (with coordinating coffee table!) also helped out the situation greatly. We decided against adding string lights to the area because the outdoor lanterns do the job, and they cast such pretty shadows while doing it! Hendry side table is great for moving around wherever you need it.

As you can see in this close up, I’m allowing the corten steel to age naturally. There is a way to speed up the process but I’ve been enjoying watching them slowly change with the weather. I think if I got them during a drier season I would have aged them myself. I know Orlando aged his Veradek planters and screens faster with a vinegar mixture which was probably a smart choice as he was prepping that reveal during a drought. You can see the blue-ish hue of the steel peeking through the drops of rust LIKE YOU CAN SEE THE BLUE PAINT PEEKING THROUGH THE TOO EXPENSIVE “GRANITE GRIP” ON THE GROUND. Ugh. I added in some accents of blue so maybe it was all on purpose after all??

Blue Pillows | Green Pillows | Mustard Lumbar | Plaid Wool Blanket

Fun fact about me: I don’t believe in outdoor decorative pillows, blankets, or rugs. Never once have I had them not get gross or just be gross – they’re never a nice material. I opt for keeping pillows and blankets in a waterproof box (like this one) along with covers for the furniture so they are easy to grab and put on if weather is coming. A ladder that can stay outside can be used to put your comfy throws out for people to help themselves to when it gets chilly.

Ladder (similar)

Unfortunately, this ladder is “vintage” Target 🙂 but this one is similar. If you are curious, the plants in the smaller planters are justicia brandegeeana or the “Mexican shrimp plant”. They have a nice fall vibe this time of year for southern California.

As you can see there was little to be done about the neighbor’s taller fence behind our fence situation, and it’s hard to see but the fence takes a pretty sharp diagonal turn in towards us so I couldn’t continue with the planters or privacy wall without losing valuable square footage. It’s hard to capture in these photos, but I took some video at the end of the shoot day, head to my instagram or Emily’s instagram for some BTS. 

Thermos | Blue Tray (on sale!) | Mugs (on sale!) | Towel | Cup (handmade/vintage)  | Snacks (Trader Joe’s:))

In early 2022, before everything went nuts for us, we were so excited to host outdoor hangs and every Sunday we would make food and invite a different couple or small group over. 

~Resolution #2: More friends and outdoor hangs~ 

An easy host moment is a DIY hot chocolate station, as pictured here.

Dining Table (similar) | Chairs | String Lights

Speaking of hosting, may I present the dining/grill/bar area! This photo helps in trying to understand the confusing layout of this space. You can see the sectional in the far corner, bar to the right, house on the left. Not seen: to the right of the bar is the tenant’s grill, which they use often. Hope and Daniel (the tenants) are great cooks and wonderful hosts. A large table with comfortable chairs was a necessity. Article doesn’t have this particular teak table at the moment, but they have this teak table. I’m a big fan of weather-resistant teak that will silver over time and last forever(ish). The chairs are a nice colorful punch as well as very comfortable and will stand up in weather. The metal is powder coated and the arms are teak. The slim seat cushion is easy to remove, throw in the wash if needed, and will dry fast if it gets wet.

For the planter in the dining area I wanted jasmine and bougainvillea to break up the black wall of the house. They aren’t too impressive yet but are both known to be fast growers, we’ll have to check back in a few months. My landscaper put in the wire because I don’t know if you have ever drilled into stucco, but I have and there’s little I hate more. I needed wire here, by my front steps and in my backyard (for my upcoming Goodland hot tub area reveal!). The stainless steel trellis and install was $823.96 for all three spaces, so this area was maybe $300 of that bill? 

Vase | “Runner” (it’s a folded tablecloth)  | Tealight Candle Holders | Candlestick Holders (Studio Mcgee for Target a couple years ago) | Black Candlesticks | Brown Candlesticks | Plates | Bowls | Flatware | Napkins | Cocktail Glass | Woven Coaster | Wine glasses (vintage – similar) | Pepper Grinder (vintage – similar) | Salt pinch (vintage)

The light was really difficult for this shoot, even in sunny Southern California the sun does not get high in the middle of the winter. You can see the cables if you look closely, I will probably have to add a row on the left if the bougainvillea takes off, as it is prone to do here. I tried to make a pretty tablescape for us but by God is it hard to see. 

Planter | Table (vintage ) Drink Dispenser | Tray | Coup Glasses | Glass Straws | More Glass Straws | More Glass Straws 🙂 | Pot with Spoon | Trivet | Beverage Bucket | Towel

This is the Daffy-haze flea market bar find. I chose it because it was the perfect size and made of steel, already patinated, so it will last just fine outside. I fancied it up by screwing two of the Veradek privacy panels vertically to the top of it and planted climbing lonicera ciliosa (orange honeysuckle) next to it in a Pure Kona Planter from Veradek. If you’re like me and end up moving planters around a lot you’ll love these pots, they don’t look like plastic but they are, which means they are lighter and don’t break the bank. You’ll be seeing more of them in my urban garden reveal.
When hosting more than two people I want everyone to be able to serve themselves when possible to take some pressure off of me. In this case: chili, sangria, and non-alcoholic drinks are all available on the bar. Those pretty cans are De La Calle Tapache, my new favorite beverage for dry January. They are absolutely delicious and feel like you’re having a cocktail. Come to think of it, I‘m sure they’d be great mixers as well. De La Calle let’s work together! Slide into my DM’s! (hey, it worked for Goodland!)

I own more than a few drink dispensers (weird flex) and this World Market one may be my favorite yet because of the design and price point. 

Rosemary Sangria Recipe that no one asked for but everyone needs in a hosting pinch :

1 apple skin on, chopped into small pieces1 orange rind on, sliced in rounds½ cup sliced strawberriesA few sprigs of rosemary1 cup orange juice 1 cup brandy 1 bottle dry Spanish red wine

Note: I don’t prefer the extra sugar that most sangria recipes call for, if I want it sweeter I add more OJ but if you have more of a sweet tooth would add a couple of tablespoons of sugar to step 1 below…

InstructionsAdd apples, oranges, strawberries, and rosemary together and muddle, not too mashed but a little mashed – maybe a minute of muddling. Obvi not an exact science.Add orange juice and brandy and muddle again.Add red wine and stir.Garnish with orange rounds or rosemary or both!

Moving from the dining space over into the cozy coffee area (peep Daffy on the chair!). This is area #3 on the map, it’s closer to the front door and where I imagine Hope and Daniel drink their morning coffee, do the crossword, and talk pleasantly about their landlords. For context, this is the same back side of the neighbor’s fence that I‘ve managed to cover with a hedge in my backyard, and the same fence where I recently planted passion fruit in my front yard. Because I’ve had so much luck with it in my front yard, for the final planter along the fence I decided to go with passion fruit again. 

~Resolution #3: Figure out what to do with passion fruit.~ 

It 100% understood the assignment in the front and I’m hoping it does the same here. BTW: we shot the front yard and it will be coming to a blog near you (this one) in the coming weeks. My desire is that the passion fruit will cover a majority of that fence and again, the plant should be able to get pretty mature in the extra-large capacity Veradek planter.

Chairs | Coffee Table (unavailable right now) | Banket | Pillows | Tray (similar) | Pitcher | Glasses

Granted, the vine looks a little sad here. We had just planted it and it went into a bit of shock. We will check back in in the spring and you all will be so impressed. We’ll also check in on this PATCHY AF CONCRETE. Let’s talk about something more pleasant: these beautiful Article chairs. Y’all. I talked about this in the intro about this space but it bears repeating: I went to see Dirty Dancing this past summer at Rooftop Cinema Club (furnished by Article) and sat in this chair, the Aeri Chair, and I was like “damn, this is extravagance”. She’s big and comfortable. 10/10 recommend.

It is still absolutely wild to me that these trees have survived with all the concrete on top of them. Asking why I didn’t just dig up the concrete or suggesting that I do came up a lot in the comments on my first post about this space. The simple answer is: it’s very costly. I’ve had a lot of concrete dug up and what I’ve learned is, 1) there’s usually a reason it is there, in the case of my property, I live on a hill so it was an attempt to keep water away from the front house and to make this back space more level (and thus more useable), 2) you have no idea how thick it is until you start doing it and the thicker it is, the more expensive it is to remove. 3) grading, building retaining walls, and landscaping is expensive and necessary after removing concrete on a hill. The point of this mini-makeover was to make it as nice as possible without huge reno costs and mostly without getting myself into one of those reno situations where it keeps growing and growing because the more you tear up the more you find to fix. 

Do you know whyyyyy I can’t spend a ton of money back here?? DRUMROLL…

MY
GARAGE
FLOODED
AGAIN.

I’m unable to process it fully to be honest. The garage seemed like it might be ok with this latest bout of rain but about a week in it finally failed. Luckily my (new) contractor was over helping me put up the kitchen shelves (yay!) when Andrew went down to his office (right side of the garage) to find it had flooded, which means my side (because it is lower) was completely flooded. This has happened so many times so my side is ready for it, everything is in waterproof bins and off the ground – his side is not. My contractor went under the house and came back with pictures. According to him, all the waterproofing that we have paid quite a bit for wasn’t done correctly. 

This is fresh and I’m unsure how I’m going to move forward but you all have been on this journey with me so here we are. It’s supposed to rain the next couple of days and we got everything off the ground on the right side, are ready with a wet vac, box fans, and dehumidifiers and we will be meeting with my contractor, talking to my insurance, and sussing out our options in the coming weeks. I’ll keep you updated.

On the plus side, my Down to Farm garden is really happy with all this rain 🙂

Coming up: Urban garden reveal (I eat salad every day, it’s magical), Goodland Hot Tub space (Spoiler alert: we LOVE it), and my much anticipated (at least by me! 7 years in the making!) kitchen reveal. I guess we can add to this list a lot of screaming about my garage and oversharing about my finances (what’s new). 

See you soon!

Opening Image Credits: Design and Styled by Emily Bowser | Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp

The post Emily Bowser’s Back Unit Yard REVEAL, 2022 Musings, New Year Resolutions, And Other Meanderings… appeared first on Emily Henderson.

The 10 Exciting Design News Stories That Are Kicking Off 2023 (And Also Happen To Be Close To Our Hearts)

First of all happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day! We thought a good way to start your day (in the design realm at least) would be to talk about some wonderful design news. These stories are a little more personal than past design news posts as most of them involve dear friends. So basically our favorite kind of news. So let’s just hop right in with an EHD alum…

Ginny’s New Lulu And Georgia Collectionvia lulu and georgia

From Emily: I get a serious burst of joy (and pride) seeing Ginny on the cover of catalogs and on websites posing like a serious force in this design world. In case you don’t know Ginny worked for me for 5 years as my right-hand and lead designer. I just care about her and love her so much. She is so talented and just such a lovely (awesome, fun) person and those early days of me, Ginny, Brady, and Sara were such a different time for EHD (I had babies, that first studio in Eagle Rock, lots of design clients, etc). Anyway, enough about me, Ginny’s collection is so beautiful (Jess has one of her sofas), comfortable, elegant, and can mix with so many styles. So classic with a bit of modern whimsy, like Ginny. Congrats, friend!

via lulu and georgia

Sideboard

I’m SERIOUSLY considering this sideboard for our sunroom: Originally I wasn’t thinking black, but it’s kinda perfect and I love that it’s by her, which will bring that sentimental element that I want.

Rental Redo

Our girl is going to be on cable, baby! That’s right! EHD mentee, Keyanna Bowen, filmed an awesome design show that helps transform rental properties. As a renter myself this show made me feel even more empowered (which could be dangerous). Plus her design are beautiful! Now her show has been streaming on Discovery+ but we are so excited for it to also be on the Magnolia Network channel!

Problem Spaces

The wildly talented Fariha Nasir also has a great new show on Magnolia called Problem Spaces where her killer DIY skills transform peoples’…problem space. We all have one, right? I love love the premise of this show and can’t wait to dig into all of the episodes.

Living Wild By Hilton Carter

Hilton is such a special talent. His design skills and plant knowledge are unparalleled! I mean y’all, this is his FOURTH BOOK. All of them are beautiful AND informative so go pre-order Living Wild (Local and Target) now so he gets on the NYT Best seller’s list again. It comes out on March 28th which will come faster than you think!

Are these photos not stunning??

Inside, At Home With Great Designers

From Mallory: I’m absolutely OBSESSED with this design book (Local and Target) – it walks through the homes of important and awesome designers & gives a little blurb about each one. They feature designers from ALL OVER and it’s so fun to see the spaces of such talented creatives. I love seeing designers’ homes because it says so much about them & how they experiment and create in their own playgrounds. Could not recommend it enough.

Extra Large Art By The Poster Club

The Poster Club is one of my go-to online art stores for affordable but great art. You might have gleaned from the title that they sell prints but let me tell you they are high quality. So when I saw an ad on Instagram saying that they now offer extra large prints I was pumped! It’s not a secret that finding affordable really large prints is a feat so having this option is the best. Here is a full post we wrote about affordable large art prints.

left photo: design by jess bunge | photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: makeover takeover: jess’ long awaited (small space) living room reveal

The Line no. 07

See! I even had (and still have) one of their prints that I originally used in my last living room. I guess I put it upside down?? Anyway, I love it and tried to make it look bigger with a larger frame. I still stand by how that looks but having an even larger option would have been great.

via the poster club

The Togo | Court

Here are two other beautiful options that come in that extra-large size.

Rasida’s Bathroom Makeoverdesign and photo by rashida banks

Well, she did it again! Another beautiful remodel that is classic, yet modern with a dash of moodiness. I really love the natural tone and character of her floating vanity mixed with that gorgeous stone. Also, look at that sconce!

design and photos by rashida banks

When I commented on her reveal photo, congratulating her, she responded by saying she was happy to see that we called double niches a 2023 bathroom design trend! Is anyone surprised that Rashida is on if not ahead of the trends?? Me neither:) Head to Rashida’s Instagram for more photos!

New Rugs From Backdropvia backdrop

You may know Backdrop as a paint company but they also have some incredible wallpaper (I really love this one) and now they branching out into rugs! The Charlap Hyman & Herrero collection was inspired by astrological symbols, Alexander Calder-inspired animal forms, and Latin proverbs and would make such an incredible statement in the right space. They aren’t your traditional rugs which is why they are so special:)

Serpiente Rug | Astrologia Rug | Caiman Rug

As you can see in the photo above, the snake and alligator (?) look SO COOL!! I really do those but the zodiac rug in the middle is awesome for a cool yet more practical option.

Zio and Sons New Collection With Mitzivia mitzi

Ok, so I know this is a tease but I wanted to make sure we are ALL aware! I have loved all of Mitzi’s collabs and truly can’t wait for this one next week.

Target’s Great New ProductsStudio McGeevia target

As you’ll see later this week, Studio McGee x Target keeps turning out incredible furniture and decor pieces! So while this isn’t an official collection, here are some of the new items we really love…

Holly Sling Back Accent Chair | Metal Curved Top Mirror | Modern Ceramic Textured Vase

The chair looks as comfortable as it is beautiful – VERY! The tones and materials are awesome. And now I don’t have a place for it but I LOVE that mirror a lot. Then that vase is really wonderful. The shape is interesting the texture is beautiful and it’s only $25 (It’ also 10″x8″)

Ceramic Table Lamp with Knob | Vernon Ottoman | Havenstone Upholstered Ottoman with Ball Feet

Ugh, that lamp is the cutest and another item I want to buy immediately. And how chic is that velvet stool?? A perfect ottoman but I also feel like it would make a great vanity bench. Lastly, the gray’s ottoman’s feet are everything. 10/10.

Jungalow via target

All Weather Rattan Pod

Stop everything and look at the yellow striped ball detail at the top of this chair! I can’t begin to describe how much joy it brings me. I want this to be the “it chair” for 2023 like the Egg chair was a few years ago. How can you not smile when you look at this chair??

Ok friends, I hope you enjoyed this little design celebration and hope you have a great rest of your day.

Love you, mean it.

Opening Image Credit: Via Lulu and Georgia

The post The 10 Exciting Design News Stories That Are Kicking Off 2023 (And Also Happen To Be Close To Our Hearts) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

The Link Up: The Cookbook Emily Tried (And LOVED) 9 Recipes From In One Week, Caitlin’s Affordable Dry Skin Cures, And A Great Sweater

Happy Sunday everyone. For us, this was a really exciting week because we got to reveal Em’s wonderful pantry. The team was equally taken by it and are SO excited that in less than a month we all get to fly up to Portland to see the whole house in person! Until then we, like you, will just happily enjoy all of the exciting updates happening as they come. Ok, link time:)

This week’s home tour is a STUNNING example of how to bring mid-century modern into 2023. The colors at rich, the patterns are classic, and the vintage is to die for. This 1961 beauty got incredibly lucky to get homeowners that were able to restore it with such care. Go look at it now on The Design Files!

From Emily: OH BOY am I excited to tell you about this cookbook. Yes, it’s all plant-based (and I was recently told I’m very intolerant to dairy) but I find her recipes incredibly satisfying. I’ve made 9 of them so far (which is a lot in one week) and they are so fresh, delicious, and it’s not a lot of tofu or faux proteins (which are fine, but I really just mostly enjoy vegetables, not trying to replicate meat). There are a lot of ingredients (herbs, spices, variety) in each recipe, which to you might sound annoying to make, but it yields a far more delicious meal. Specifically the kale chips, the charred broccoli “gnocchi,” and the glow salad. Laura Wright has clearly spent a lot of time developing these recipes and her hard work is very appreciated by me.

From Mallory: Here is the deal of the season: I went to Madewell last week and they were doing an additional 40% off their sale section and I found a SCORE. It’s this sweater, guys. I’m so impressed by the quality (and was originally $110) but is now OVER HALF OFF at $50!! I bought it in green but they also have it in black, white, camel and pink. Highly considering buying another color it’s that good.

From Caitlin: Hello from your lizard-skinned internet friend! If you also suffer from eczema (or you’re just feeling more dry and scaly than you’d prefer), I have two game-changers for you: this $15 hypoallergenic soothing body wash (it literally used to be called “eczema calming body wash,” but it’s been rebranded to appeal to the masses) and this $27 targeted eczema body balm. I was diagnosed with eczema as a kid and living in LA has definitely calmed it down, but I still tend to get VERY patchy during the winter. That said, these two products take me from “rough and uncomfortable” to “soft and well-moisturized” in a REALLY impressive amount of time (like, there’s a noticeable difference after the first shower). In all honesty, I’m not crazy about either of the scents – they’re not bad or medical or spicy, just…weird? Like a product that’s trying to be unscented, but still has a smell, if that makes sense? But they both work SO  that I find myself turning back to them year after year after year (seriously – have been buying and using them since 2017!). Hoping this recommendation can help someone else, too!! 

From Ryann: This is my favorite notebook and I have probably purchased 200 notebooks in my lifetime. I started doing morning pages a few months ago (i.e. I write three pages every morning to start my day) and this is the perfect size notebook for that purpose. I love that it doesn’t have a super hardcover so it can lay flat while I am writing. The line spacing is perfect and this may sound looney tunes but it just feels good to write in.

From Jess: Tell me why it took me until 2023 to get a salad spinner?? I think everyone should have one. I’m embarrassed about how wasteful I was in attempting to dry my leafy greens and herbs with…paper towels. I KNOW THAT’S TERRIBLE! But I am a new woman after using my friend’s salad spinner last week. We decided to prep a bunch of our week’s food together and I am giving it a 10/10! I hate prepping food. It’s boring and takes me forever. So to get to hang with a friend and batch chop and roast things made it so much better and I actually cooked every one of my meals this week. I’m as surprised as you are. She had this one which is great and a little more affordable for the size, but it has a hole in the top that you need to be careful of so you don’t get your finger caught. It happening to my friend. I don’t trust I that won’t have the same fate so I opted for this smaller one! No holes for accidental finger catching and easier for me to handle. So if I have a big batch of lettuce I might need to do a few rounds but that’s worth it to me so I don’t have yet another large, annoying thing to wash. Plus the smaller one is great for herbs too! If you have a big family, don’t mind washing a larger sizer, or simply have a dishwasher (dreams!) then this is the larger version of the one I bought. Now that I have a salad spinner, I might be unstoppable.

SALES TO CHECK OUT!

J.Crew: Today! 25% off full-price styles & extra 60% off last-chance sale styles. Use code: EPIC
Ulta: It’s the Love Your Skin Event! They are offering 50% off a new selection of skincare products every day through January 21st.

That’s it! Have a great rest of your day and see y’all tomorrow. xx

Opening Image Credits: Design by Emily Henderson and ARCIFORM | Photo by Kaitlin Green

The post The Link Up: The Cookbook Emily Tried (And LOVED) 9 Recipes From In One Week, Caitlin’s Affordable Dry Skin Cures, And A Great Sweater appeared first on Emily Henderson.

The Farmhouse Powder Bath Update (Did We Stick With The Blue Walls??)

This little bathroom will be seen by the most actual human people IRL and yet it’s the one I’ve thought about the least (which is fine, I have other fish to fry). It’s right off the mudroom and family room with easy access to the backyard (through the french doors off the family room) so it will be the bathroom the kids come in to use when playing outside. I wanted it to feel utilitarian but not boring with a side of “experience,” as you do. Here we go.

Here you can see where it is in the house. I remember that a lot of you wanted it to be easier to access or in a more obvious location (for guests), but so far all our guests have made it to the toilet in time:) But seriously we don’t really host a lot of strangers (if any) so most people who come over are close friends or family so we are all good. But admittedly, if we were building a house from scratch we would put it in an obvious, more central area.

Sink with Faucet

I never really finalized the design of this room before we moved in so this is where we are at. As you can see we paneled the walls with the same millwork as the family room/living room but stopped around 6′. I thought it was odd that the top piece is shorter and not the same full piece, but I was reminded that we did that because it’s actually a trim piece that is getting shaker pegs. There is this fun little game that you play a year or two into any remodel or renovation where you don’t remember why or who made a design choice, but someone did and so there it is. I’m not being snarky, this happens all the time and it’s usually my choice that I’m like, “huh, ok we’ll work with past Emily’s choice.” That’s all to say that it’s not a big deal at all and once we put in the shaker pegs it will give that shorter flat stock trim piece some purpose.

The sink is a hanging utilitarian farm sink from Rejuvenation (the faucet comes with it), set off-center because I wanted the asymmetry (with a direct site line with the door open).

The sconce was also selected to be quirky and just on one side (balanced out by a lamp or plant on the vanity). Speaking of…

This wall is going to have a custom vanity that I’m designing with a local maker, Nate from Dinihanian Design. We are doing a piece that will look like a table, which has “legs” with a wood apron. Then on the underside, we’ll put a curtain. At first, I designed this to have drawers and be a whole custom cabinet situation, but for cost reasons, we are reducing the scope of it (y’all white oak is a fortune these days). And it will be a darker stain to pop off the floor. Besides, we don’t need storage in here.

We have a lot left to do and here’s what we are thinking:
1. Paint the blue. It’s Favorite Jeans by Sherwin-Williams and I want it moodier. So with that said, something exciting happened this week (which you’ll see at the end). I’m IN LOVE.
2. Wallpaper above the paneling. I had one picked out that you’ll see below, but nothing is final. I want to choose the rest of the papers that would be near this room first.
3. Pick a mirror. As you can see below we have some options but I’m going to keep vintage shopping.
4. Accessories and art. I’m thinking this is the perfect room to showcase my collection of vintage animal portraits, but we’ll see.

The Mirror

I went to our inventory and grabbed a few mirrors (one you’ve seen before). I actually really love the simplicity of this oval with the thin black frame (but not making any decisions until other things are in place).

This is the one that I’m likely going to hang in our kid’s bathroom, but I like it here, too!!! Looks like I’ll need to take a shopping day to find some new mirrors 🙂 Remember this one in here?

photo by ryan liebe | from: my powder room reveal

The Wallpaper

We are going to wallpaper in here as well. I’m still ordering more samples (I have more from Kelly Ventura coming that I’m excited about). I loved the idea of those plaids but I think they are too sweet (not quite pulling at my gut like I usually prefer).

Originally when I was going to do a plaid curtain I wanted this ticking stripe wallpaper, but since I’ve chosen the plaid for the washer/dryer which is really close to this room I’m going in a different direction (I think, hold me to nothing these days).

See? That curtain with the ticking stripe wallpaper above the paneling would look pretty darn cute! Shoot, maybe I should put this here instead of the washer/dryer since many of you said you don’t think I should do a curtain anyway!

The Hanging Shaker Cabinet

Once we get our pegs in (which went in after this shoot) we are going to paint this cabinet and hang it from a peg (mostly to look cute). Also, this photo reminds me that I need a TP holder…

I was going to just post this with it being blue but I got a little bug up my butt to just finalize this room more quickly and I wanted to change the color to something less bright and more moody. I’m so obsessed with the Artistic Taupe (also by Sherwin-Willliams) color that’s in our upstairs guest room…

So that’s what happened yesterday. Kinda. After they painted this first color which is GORGEOUS (Glamour by Sherwin-Williams) I decided to go one shade darker on that same color stick and do Cocoa Berry (Also SW). Y’all it’s SO PRETTY. Here you can see the potential wallpaper (that white swatch with a thin gray stripe) and the leather pet portrait represents the tone of the custom vanity table (obviously), while that tablecloth represents what we might put as the skirt/curtain. I’m SO HAPPY with this color choice, the tones are perfect. Sure it’s “pink” but with a lot of warmth to it (it goes brown) making it less PINK and more soothing. Our guest room is in the lighter version of this color so I felt very very confident knowing that I love the tone. The big question (which was painfully debated here) was the level of darkness – which shade of color on that same stick. After Kaitlin left yesterday he sprayed the darker color (the sample you see on the wall) so next time you see it it will be even richer.

So that’s where we are at with this little bathroom. I’m so much more excited about it this color than the blue that felt like the wrong tone for this house (it’s a really happy color, though). Y’all I’m learning a LOT about color and happy you are on this journey with me 🙂 I’m going room by room slowly, dialing in the color and getting closer and closer to nailing it each time. Another big box checked. THANK GOODNESS. xx

* Unless Otherwise Noted, Photos by Kaitlin Green

The post The Farmhouse Powder Bath Update (Did We Stick With The Blue Walls??) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

Great Bathroom Vanity Sets That Won’t Break Your Whole Bathroom Budget (We’ve Got 48 GOOD Options)

One of our most purchased items of 2022 was this vanity set that Priscilla used in Emily’s best friend’s basement bathroom (shown above and below if you scroll down). And I get it! With an easy swap of the hardware and the addition of a pretty brass faucet, they got a beautiful-looking vanity for a slammin deal and people wanted in! Now, this may sound dumb but for longer than I’d like to admit I assumed that unless totally custom, all vanities came with countertops. No such luck little Jess. In fact, A LOT don’t, and for me, that sounds pretty overwhelming for someone who has never renovated before. Meaning, not only do I need to find an affordable vanity base but THEN I have to what, go to a stone yard and figure out how to get a countertop made??? I’m half kidding because I know that readymade countertops are also available online. But honestly, I’d prefer to just have those two pieces come together as one. One less decision, amiright?? So that’s what this post is going to deliver – bathroom vanities with countertops at an affordable price.

Now, let me just say that everything is more expensive than it was pre-pandemic. It sucks. So I did some research and capped the price at $1000 (a few are slightly over). I know $1000 doesn’t scream “affordable” but there are a ton of options that are less than that. Obviously, the smaller ones are more affordable and the larger ones (double sinks for example) are less affordable. Of course, we always recommend checking out Craigslist or a similar site to maybe find something that works even better for your budget. Plus it’s good for the earth! But if that’s not an option for you then hopefully some of these will be. Let’s start with the little ones, 18″ wide or under:

1. Airon 18″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: I hate to start with my personal favorite but man I love this one! The wood tone is beautiful, the black accents make it look expensive, and it looks vintage without actually being vintage. It also comes in five other colors if you like the shape but not the color, the drawer is a soft close, and the counter is quartz with is super durable.
2. Doyle 18″ Single Bathroom Vanity: This is such a pretty and versatile option and could work with almost any style. And for under $350, it’s a steal! It also comes in a pretty more muted green.
3. Malena 18″ Single Sink Bathroom Vanity Set: This one may be little but isn’t elegant! The details are all very classic but it still can easily work for a farmhouse style.
4. Pyramid Pedestal: I know this isn’t the most practical option, since there’s no counter space, but with the right faucet it would look very cool and modern. It also comes in black!
5. Galilhai 35″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: This is a great one to add a natural texture to a bathroom. It can easily work in either a contemporary or really organic-styled space.
6. Cassidy 16″ Single Bathroom Vanity: Such a cute vanity that has a modern twist. Great lines and I love that little drawer.

Let’s move onto vanities that are over 20″ wide…

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: budget basement bathroom – the one where we tried to not spend money… (and now you know why)

1. Aurora 25 in. White Vanity: I think this one is so beautiful! It’s traditional yet not overly ornate. Plus that countertop is Carrera marble and it’s a great price. 10/10!
2. Muriel 24″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: Shaker with a twist. I love the door details and those cute chunky feet! It also comes in a brighter green.
3. Claire Ceramic Console Sink White Basin Gold Legs: Ok no storage but so pretty! I love that hit of brass. It’s the affordable version of Malcolm’s beautiful bathroom makeover.
4. Toto Promenade 24″ Rectangular Pedestal Bathroom Sink: Another beautiful classic style that may not have storage but still has a decent amount of counter space.
5. Tremont 24″ Free Standing Single Basin Vanity Set: How cute are those little drawers??
6. Lauren 20″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: I can’t get over the joinery. It’s so good! I might personally change out the handle for something less decorative but it’s a really cool option for under $500.
7. Renwick 23.5″ Single Bathroom Vanity: This is the bigger version of the one in the first category! Personally, I love the white countertop combo and this size comes in other wood colors.
8. Rowland Pedestal Sink: A little bit more detail than #4 and from our favorite, Rejuvenation. I know!
9. 25″ Modern Farmhouse Single Bathroom Vanity Sink: Perfect for a modern utilitarian vibe and has a place built-in for a hand towel! And how cute would a basket look on the shelf?
10. Annecy 24″ Free Standing Single Basin Vanity Set: Talk about fun and bold! Great for someone who is looking for something different.
11. Kansas 24″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: That beadboard and paint color are stealing my heart (but it also comes in white). Plus it has a lot of storage with a marble countertop!
12. Gabi 24.02” Single Bathroom Vanity: I know this is a pricey one but I really love it. It’s trendy without screaming “I’M TRENDY!” and isn’t your average readymade vanity.
13. Jewell 20″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: Classic, simple, and beautifully affordable.
14. 28″ Single Wall-Hung 2 Drawer Vanity Set: I had to throw a couple of curveballs in the group! I think this one is so cool. I don’t know why but I’m imagining it in a bathroom with a wildly awesome wallpaper. And don’t be fooled, it has not one but two drawers.
15. Jakhiya Modern 24″ Black 1-Drawer Bathroom Vanity Set: If you are a glam lover then this is your vanity! Black, brass, and sleek.

Ready for the 30″+ cuties?!

design by priscilla frost | styled by emily henderson | photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: my friend’s carpeted basement bathroom gets a budget makeover (with a lot of readymade products and the transformation is insane)

1. Arietta 31 in. Black Vanity: This feels quietly pretentious in the best way. Like it knows it’s beautiful and chic but doesn’t feel the need to say it:)
2. Merryfield 37 in. Bathroom Vanity: Whoa, I really love this color and the drawer configuration. Overall it’s just a stunning vanity. And guess what? If you love it too but need it in a different size, it comes in four other sizes AND two other colors.
3. Binford 30″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: I might have a thing for MCM-inspired vanities…because this one is pulling at my heartstrings. It also comes in a slightly lighter wood tone!
4. Chelsea 36″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: Of course, this one is in my top 5 because it’s also one of the most expensive. There isn’t one thing I would change about it:)
5. 30-inch Bathroom Vanity: Elegant, simple, and love that toe kick.
6. Vintage White China 32-inch Wall Mount Bathroom Vanity Sink: If you are looking for a pretty vintage-looking vanity, this may just be it:)
7. Console Lavatory Sink: Another Malcolm-like vanity! My landlord gave me permission to do “whatever I wanted” in my apartment and this may be one of those wants (given the style of the building:)).
8. Keri 36” Single Bathroom Vanity: Y’all, I really think this one is special. Again, not cheap but doesn’t it look like it could go in an Amber Interiors home???
9. Timonium Brandy 30″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: This one is basically the big brother to the first one in the first roundup! I think I would opt for black handles but otherwise 10/10.
10. Classe 36″ Single Bathroom Vanity: I dare you to not fall in love with this one. The cane doors and micro knobs are too good!
11. Burnam 30″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: I don’t know why the term “PNW Luxe” flashes in my head when I look at this vanity but it just feels right. It also comes in four other colors!
12. Belleair 30″ Single Sink Vanity: Yes, this is from Pottery Barn and yes, it’s actually affordable and of course, pretty!!
13. Bragenham 30″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: If you don’t smell something sweet when looking at this cutie then we are very different (which of course is ok). The delicate details make it really special.
14. Eita 36″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: Ah, the vanity that started it all!! As you can see from this bathroom reveal, it’s a great-looking vanity with an EHD official stamp of approval!
15. Waithman 30″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: How good does that natural wood look? It’s a perfect balance of rustic and modern.

And now we go even bigger!

photo by jess isaac | from: master bathroom reveal

1. Hampton Harbor 44 in. Bath Vanity: Lots of little drawers and cute feet – I’m in! This one also comes in a few different sizes.
2. Dawkins 42″ Wall-Mounted Single Bathroom Vanity Set: I love that wood grain A LOT and it’s a really pretty floating option.
3. Gonzalo 48” Single Bathroom Vanity: Ok, this one is actually the most expensive option but my god is she a beaut! How could I not include her?? Oh, and it also comes in a charcoal color.
4. Wittig 48″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: Organic industrial, right?? Love the amount of storage and that there are both open and closed options.
5. Aurora Blue 49 in. Vanity: One word. Classic!
6. HEMNES / ODENSVIK: It’s simple but so pretty and that price is unbeatable!

And for our final category…DOUBLE SINKS!

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: portland reveal: how the bathroom I was most nervous about turned out to be my favorite

1. Sanibel 60″ Double Bathroom Vanity Set: What a pretty shade of blue and I really love that hardware. It also comes in white if blue isn’t your thing!
2. HEMNES / ODENSVIK: IKEA knows how to design a wonderfully simple yet versatile vanity. I love the hardware placement too! It also comes in gray.
3. Bryn 48″ Wall-Mount Double Sink Bathroom Vanity: Moody and modern. Can a bathroom vanity be sultry??
4. Hitchin 60″ Double Bathroom Vanity Set: Simple with just enough detail! I think adding some vintage hardware would make this piece look incredible. It also comes in white:)
5. 48-in Almond Toffee Undermount Double Sink Bathroom Vanity: Another incredibly versatile piece. I love the drawer/cabinet combo! This also comes in a couple of other colors.
6. Biscayne 60″ Double Bathroom Vanity Set: I think this one is just pretty and that single long shelf on the bottom is not only beautiful but practical. This one also comes in three other colors and you can choose between brushed nickel or gold hardware!

Well, that’s it! I really hope this was helpful to those who are currently shopping around for a bathroom vanity! Do you have any favorites or can any of you vouch for any of these? Let’s talk in the comments!

Love you, mean it.

Opening Image Credits: Design by Priscilla Frost | Styled by Emily Henderson | Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | from: My Friend’s Carpeted Basement Bathroom Gets A Budget Makeover (With A Lot Of Readymade Products And The Transformation Is Insane)

The post Great Bathroom Vanity Sets That Won’t Break Your Whole Bathroom Budget (We’ve Got 48 GOOD Options) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

Get A Great Bathroom Vanity Set That Won’t Break Your Whole Bathroom Budget (We’ve Got 48 GOOD Options)

One of our most purchased items of 2022 was this vanity set that Priscilla used in Emily’s best friend’s basement bathroom (shown above and below if you scroll down). And I get it! With an easy swap of the hardware and the addition of a pretty brass faucet, they got a beautiful-looking vanity for a slammin deal and people wanted in! Now, this may sound dumb but for longer than I’d like to admit I assumed that unless totally custom, all vanities came with countertops. No such luck little Jess. In fact, A LOT don’t, and for me, that sounds pretty overwhelming for someone who has never renovated before. Meaning, not only do I need to find an affordable vanity base but THEN I have to what, go to a stone yard and figure out how to get a countertop made??? I’m half kidding because I know that readymade countertops are also available online. But honestly, I’d prefer to just have those two pieces come together as one. One less decision, amiright?? So that’s what this post is going to deliver – bathroom vanities with countertops at an affordable price.

Now, let me just say that everything is more expensive than it was pre-pandemic. It sucks. So I did some research and capped the price at $1000 (a few are slightly over). I know $1000 doesn’t scream “affordable” but there are a ton of options that are less than that. Obviously, the smaller ones are more affordable and the larger ones (double sinks for example) are less affordable. Of course, we always recommend checking out Craigslist or a similar site to maybe find something that works even better for your budget. Plus it’s good for the earth! But if that’s not an option for you then hopefully some of these will be. Let’s start with the little ones, 18″ wide or under:

1. Airon 18″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: I hate to start with my personal favorite but man I love this one! The wood tone is beautiful, the black accents make it look expensive, and it looks vintage without actually being vintage. It also comes in five other colors if you like the shape but not the color, the drawer is a soft close, and the counter is quartz with is super durable.
2. Doyle 18″ Single Bathroom Vanity: This is such a pretty and versatile option and could work with almost any style. And for under $350, it’s a steal! It also comes in a pretty more muted green.
3. Malena 18″ Single Sink Bathroom Vanity Set: This one may be little but isn’t elegant! The details are all very classic but it still can easily work for a farmhouse style.
4. Pyramid Pedestal: I know this isn’t the most practical option, since there’s no counter space, but with the right faucet it would look very cool and modern. It also comes in black!
5. Galilhai 35″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: This is a great one to add a natural texture to a bathroom. It can easily work in either a contemporary or really organic-styled space.
6. Cassidy 16″ Single Bathroom Vanity: Such a cute vanity that has a modern twist. Great lines and I love that little drawer.

Let’s move onto vanities that are over 20″ wide…

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: budget basement bathroom – the one where we tried to not spend money… (and now you know why)

1. Aurora 25 in. White Vanity: I think this one is so beautiful! It’s traditional yet not overly ornate. Plus that countertop is Carrera marble and it’s a great price. 10/10!
2. Muriel 24″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: Shaker with a twist. I love the door details and those cute chunky feet! It also comes in a brighter green.
3. Claire Ceramic Console Sink White Basin Gold Legs: Ok no storage but so pretty! I love that hit of brass. It’s the affordable version of Malcolm’s beautiful bathroom makeover.
4. Toto Promenade 24″ Rectangular Pedestal Bathroom Sink: Another beautiful classic style that may not have storage but still has a decent amount of counter space.
5. Tremont 24″ Free Standing Single Basin Vanity Set: How cute are those little drawers??
6. Lauren 20″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: I can’t get over the joinery. It’s so good! I might personally change out the handle for something less decorative but it’s a really cool option for under $500.
7. Renwick 23.5″ Single Bathroom Vanity: This is the bigger version of the one in the first category! Personally, I love the white countertop combo and this size comes in other wood colors.
8. Rowland Pedestal Sink: A little bit more detail than #4 and from our favorite, Rejuvenation. I know!
9. 25″ Modern Farmhouse Single Bathroom Vanity Sink: Perfect for a modern utilitarian vibe and has a place built-in for a hand towel! And how cute would a basket look on the shelf?
10. Annecy 24″ Free Standing Single Basin Vanity Set: Talk about fun and bold! Great for someone who is looking for something different.
11. Kansas 24″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: That beadboard and paint color are stealing my heart (but it also comes in white). Plus it has a lot of storage with a marble countertop!
12. Gabi 24.02” Single Bathroom Vanity: I know this is a pricey one but I really love it. It’s trendy without screaming “I’M TRENDY!” and isn’t your average readymade vanity.
13. Jewell 20″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: Classic, simple, and beautifully affordable.
14. 28″ Single Wall-Hung 2 Drawer Vanity Set: I had to throw a couple of curveballs in the group! I think this one is so cool. I don’t know why but I’m imagining it in a bathroom with a wildly awesome wallpaper. And don’t be fooled, it has not one but two drawers.
15. Jakhiya Modern 24″ Black 1-Drawer Bathroom Vanity Set: If you are a glam lover then this is your vanity! Black, brass, and sleek.

Ready for the 30″+ cuties?!

design by priscilla frost | styled by emily henderson | photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: my friend’s carpeted basement bathroom gets a budget makeover (with a lot of readymade products and the transformation is insane)

1. Arietta 31 in. Black Vanity: This feels quietly pretentious in the best way. Like it knows it’s beautiful and chic but doesn’t feel the need to say it:)
2. Merryfield 37 in. Bathroom Vanity: Whoa, I really love this color and the drawer configuration. Overall it’s just a stunning vanity. And guess what? If you love it too but need it in a different size, it comes in four other sizes AND two other colors.
3. Binford 30″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: I might have a thing for MCM-inspired vanities…because this one is pulling at my heartstrings. It also comes in a slightly lighter wood tone!
4. Chelsea 36″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: Of course, this one is in my top 5 because it’s also one of the most expensive. There isn’t one thing I would change about it:)
5. 30-inch Bathroom Vanity: Elegant, simple, and love that toe kick.
6. Vintage White China 32-inch Wall Mount Bathroom Vanity Sink: If you are looking for a pretty vintage-looking vanity, this may just be it:)
7. Console Lavatory Sink: Another Malcolm-like vanity! My landlord gave me permission to do “whatever I wanted” in my apartment and this may be one of those wants (given the style of the building:)).
8. Keri 36” Single Bathroom Vanity: Y’all, I really think this one is special. Again, not cheap but doesn’t it look like it could go in an Amber Interiors home???
9. Timonium Brandy 30″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: This one is basically the big brother to the first one in the first roundup! I think I would opt for black handles but otherwise 10/10.
10. Classe 36″ Single Bathroom Vanity: I dare you to not fall in love with this one. The cane doors and micro knobs are too good!
11. Burnam 30″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: I don’t know why the term “PNW Luxe” flashes in my head when I look at this vanity but it just feels right. It also comes in four other colors!
12. Belleair 30″ Single Sink Vanity: Yes, this is from Pottery Barn and yes, it’s actually affordable and of course, pretty!!
13. Bragenham 30″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: If you don’t smell something sweet when looking at this cutie then we are very different (which of course is ok). The delicate details make it really special.
14. Eita 36″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: Ah, the vanity that started it all!! As you can see from this bathroom reveal, it’s a great-looking vanity with an EHD official stamp of approval!
15. Waithman 30″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: How good does that natural wood look? It’s a perfect balance of rustic and modern.

And now we go even bigger!

photo by jess isaac | from: master bathroom reveal

1. Hampton Harbor 44 in. Bath Vanity: Lots of little drawers and cute feet – I’m in! This one also comes in a few different sizes.
2. Dawkins 42″ Wall-Mounted Single Bathroom Vanity Set: I love that wood grain A LOT and it’s a really pretty floating option.
3. Gonzalo 48” Single Bathroom Vanity: Ok, this one is actually the most expensive option but my god is she a beaut! How could I not include her?? Oh, and it also comes in a charcoal color.
4. Wittig 48″ Single Bathroom Vanity Set: Organic industrial, right?? Love the amount of storage and that there are both open and closed options.
5. Aurora Blue 49 in. Vanity: One word. Classic!
6. HEMNES / ODENSVIK: It’s simple but so pretty and that price is unbeatable!

And for our final category…DOUBLE SINKS!

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: portland reveal: how the bathroom I was most nervous about turned out to be my favorite

1. Sanibel 60″ Double Bathroom Vanity Set: What a pretty shade of blue and I really love that hardware. It also comes in white if blue isn’t your thing!
2. HEMNES / ODENSVIK: IKEA knows how to design a wonderfully simple yet versatile vanity. I love the hardware placement too! It also comes in gray.
3. Bryn 48″ Wall-Mount Double Sink Bathroom Vanity: Moody and modern. Can a bathroom vanity be sultry??
4. Hitchin 60″ Double Bathroom Vanity Set: Simple with just enough detail! I think adding some vintage hardware would make this piece look incredible. It also comes in white:)
5. 48-in Almond Toffee Undermount Double Sink Bathroom Vanity: Another incredibly versatile piece. I love the drawer/cabinet combo! This also comes in a couple of other colors.
6. Biscayne 60″ Double Bathroom Vanity Set: I think this one is just pretty and that single long shelf on the bottom is not only beautiful but practical. This one also comes in three other colors and you can choose between brushed nickel or gold hardware!

Well, that’s it! I really hope this was helpful to those who are currently shopping around for a bathroom vanity! Do you have any favorites or can any of you vouch for any of these? Let’s talk in the comments!

Love you, mean it.

Opening Image Credits: Design by Priscilla Frost | Styled by Emily Henderson | Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | from: My Friend’s Carpeted Basement Bathroom Gets A Budget Makeover (With A Lot Of Readymade Products And The Transformation Is Insane)

The post Get A Great Bathroom Vanity Set That Won’t Break Your Whole Bathroom Budget (We’ve Got 48 GOOD Options) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

Is This The New “California Casual”? Step Inside This Modern Double A Frame Home That Is Contemporary AND Dripping With Soul

“I wanted to create something that hadn’t been done before while remaining timeless and luxurious,” says Rob Diaz, architect and designer of today’s epic home tour. It is a four-bedroom, five-bathroom, double A-frame home plus guest house in Studio City, CA that is rich with old-world charm yet carries a striking freshness due to the contemporary design. Fans of classic European-inspired interiors will adore this home, and the bright, airy California casual influence is just what we need to feast our eyes on while weathering this literal storm here in California. Let’s jump right in.

The exterior evokes a laid-back yet luxurious feel with the many arches, smooth stucco finish, and natural wood elements. It is warm and inviting, which is not unlike the interior of the home as you will soon see.

Regarding the style of the home, Rob informed me his vision was to create “a modern take on a French Chateau-style home and feature a mix of old and new design elements. The reclaimed French-tiled roof, cobbled decking, and vintage shutters and pots are beautifully juxtaposed with the copper gutters, louvered custom garage doors, and off-white Santa Barbara clay walls.“

In the living room, you can sense the French Chataeu influence through the double-arched windows, neutral color palette, and the simple yet elegant styling. Sarah Brady, founder of The Platform Experiment, styled the home and knew she wanted to layer in a ton of awesome vintage pieces throughout the home. “I always start with vintage pieces,” she says. “I know this will be my grounding moment – the vintage piece tells the story and can dictate the rest of the room. The vintage element can often feel architectural in a space and once it has found its place in a room, the simpler modern elements are easy to build around it.”  

The incredible 4-globe geometric light fixtures are by Allied Maker, and fit the space perfectly while adding a touch of glamor to the room. But Sarah’s favorite decor pieces here are the relic vessel on the coffee table and the vintage painting over the fireplace. They add just the right dose of old-world charm so this room feels layered, warm, and well-rounded.

The checkered area rug provides a modern flair that pairs so well with all of the contemporary architectural elements. This room evokes an elevated yet lived-in feel and the carefully curated pieces make the room feel anything but predictable. Did you notice the small art piece on the left wall? Its small scale and low placement are quite unexpected, which gives off a playful vibe. I also love the muted green velvet chair for a pop of color, and the vintage brown leather chair adds soul and warmth.

The living room opens up to the backyard via glass doors where the landscape lends to a relaxing, vacation-like ambiance equipped with a luxurious pool and guest house (more on that below).

When I first saw the photos of this home, I was immediately struck by the soft yet eye-catching wall color and texture throughout. Rob explained that the entire home features hand-applied clay from Clayworks USA which is why the walls in each room have a lovely, textural finish. The texture is smooth matte stucco-like material and gives the home warmth, movement, and of course, added visual interest.

The formal dining area accentuates the relaxed European vibe and is furnished with a mix of incredible vintage and modern pieces. We love the wicker floor lamp and boucle loveseat which present fun textures, and the brutalist vintage dining chairs from Amsterdam Modern are impossible to ignore. The shape of the chairs put forward a sculptural element that elevates the room effortlessly. The dark rich tone of the chairs paired with the light wood table adds visual interest while the vintage rug grounds the space. For some movement and a hint of whimsy, the stool does the trick and really rounds out the room. This is what dining room dreams are made of, folks.

The kitchen is stunning yet understated, warm, and inviting which is no easy feat. The floor-to-ceiling cabinetry adds to this effect and of course, provides ample storage. I asked Rob who the maker of the cabinetry was and he explained, “The kitchen cabinetry was custom-made by our team’s in-house cabinet maker, and we used white oak cabinets throughout. Overall, we wanted to go for an understated, warm, and approachable feel for the kitchen.“

Up close, the cabinetry is even more breathtaking and we love the choice to include a subtle grid design on the lower drawers. This breaks up the wood and creates a tile-like effect which is very cool and unexpected.

Rob wanted the kitchen to feel seamlessly connected to the rest of the home, which is accomplished through the white oak cabinetry, matte black hardware, and neutral countertops. For a modern element and to keep the kitchen feeling open, a large steel Euroline window divides the primary kitchen area from the service kitchen.

In addition to stunning cabinetry and architectural choices, the minimal styling drives the design home. Note the tiny stool in the corner that is extremely charming and whimsical, and the various vessels that provide a natural, organic aesthetic.

In the powder room, Rob selected two large, vintage Italian sconces and paired them with a classic Gio Ponti mirror and an old limestone sink trough. I love that they chose to go with black tile here, which provides a stark contrast to the neutral colors and warm tones throughout the home. We always say that powder bathrooms are a great place to experiment with color or pattern and make design risks, and this is a great example of that.

The upstairs landing has a ton of beautiful natural light due to the large skylight and glass door that leads to the balcony. I love that they added light curtains over the door, which provides movement and a bit of privacy. Also, the double vintage wooden chairs are awesome and add a lot of character.

In the primary bathroom, the custom white oak vanity is accompanied by a custom marble countertop/backsplash and a large-scale arched mirror. I love that the mirror shape makes a statement but is not loud or overbearing, which parallels the design throughout the home. It gives this bathroom a very relaxing yet sophisticated feel.

Let’s talk about those vanity legs. The matte black finish is very striking but the shape is of course what I love most. Breaking up the peg legs with circular knobs just gives this vanity an edge that contrasts the minimal elements throughout.

Opposite the bathroom vanity, a tiny bulb light over the free-standing tub is all this wall needs. I LOVE this choice and think it creates such a sophisticated yet unexpected look that is extremely cool and modern.

Outside the bathroom, there is this quaint reading nook equipped with a cushioned bench and storage unit. I love how they chose to furnish this small space so it can be used rather than let it become dead space.

I am sure you have noticed by now that the lighting choices throughout the home are superb, so I had to ask Rob how he chose the lighting in a home of this size. He explained, “When it comes to lighting selection, I love using a mix of classic lighting and pieces with a twist of modern design. I picked several pieces from Apparatus Studio and RW Guild in the main living areas, but I felt that in the guest quarters, it was important to find the right scale and classic silhouettes for those spaces.”

In the above bedroom, the choice to go with a sculptural multi-bulb pendant light accentuates the fresh modern style but is still quite understated so it pairs well with the vintage furnishings and decor.

This room is a prime example of how Rob and Sarah nailed the mixing of old and new elements. The pendant light is modern and sculptural and is grounded by the two wooden vintage chairs. The windows are contemporary and the walls and vintage oil painting above the bed provide a warm, old-world aesthetic. Finally, the color palette is driven home with the bedding and that incredible art piece above. It is all SO good and I would die for those vintage chairs.

When it came to styling, Sarah truly felt led by the beauty of each room. The textured walls, the elegant yet edgy lighting, and the natural sunlight streaming in from all the windows created a beautiful backdrop for her to layer decor that would only emphasize the elegance of the home.

I love how in this bedroom she took a different approach with white bedding and added pops of color with the blanket and rug, then included vintage furniture for charm and character. And again, a small-scale art piece is hung low on the wall which will always be one of our favorite unexpected styling choices.

More color comes into play in this bathroom with floor-to-ceiling blue zellige tile and Spanish-style floor tile. As is always the case with zellige tile, the color and texture varies tile to tile, creating a nuanced look. But what is perhaps most striking here is the choice to go with a brass wall-mounted faucet, rather than matte black which is what we have seen throughout the home. It creates a luxe look that is really striking.

Here we have the architect’s favorite room in the home and it’s not hard to understand why. It is a den that has its own courtyard and bar area and has its own style that feels separate from the home. “The space feels tucked in, serene, and feels like a private retreat from the rest of home.” says Rob. “The mix of the oak, green ceiling, and Apparatus downlights, which flood perfectly are my favorite design elements of this space. “

Natural stone flooring in this bathroom creates an organic aesthetic (and perhaps it is worth mentioning that stone flooring might just be another bathroom trend for 2023??). I just love the stone paired with the light blue subway tile and would love to see this trend take off.

Over the sink, a vintage wood mirror adds warmth that contrasts with the cool tone of the tile, and the vintage micro sconce adds character and depth to the space.

Quite unsurprisingly, the backyard is equally luxurious as the interior. The landscape was also done by Rob Diaz so there is an apparent continuity between the exterior and interior. I imagine you feel drawn to the outdoors when in the home, especially with the large windows on both floors that I am sure will beckon you outside.

On the last stop of the tour, we have this colorful guesthouse that lives poolside. I love that the design feels very different from the interior of the home but still carries the same elements. The green walls and wood ceiling are grounding and calming and give off a sort of outdoorsy, NorCal aura. But overall, the decor is neutral and minimal, and again strikes the perfect balance between old and new.

To end our tour, we have this kitchenette that is fully clad with beautiful oak wood. The wood and matte black finishes are reminiscent of the kitchen in the main house, which creates a lovely continuity between the two houses. The leaning modern art piece is just the styling moment this space needed to accentuate the playful, sophisticated, modern meets old-world style that Rob Diaz and Sarah Brady are clearly experts at achieving.

*Design by Rob Diaz Design & Anastasia Ratia, Builder: Diaz + Alexander Studio
**Styled by Sarah Brady of Platform Home
***Photos by Virtually Here Studios & LA Light Photo

The post Is This The New “California Casual”? Step Inside This Modern Double A Frame Home That Is Contemporary AND Dripping With Soul appeared first on Emily Henderson.

8 Bathroom Trends We Are Expecting To See A Lot More Of In 2023

At EHD, trend predictions are the closest thing we have to a fantasy football draft (am I stretching here?? Maybe). The point is, we ultimately don’t know what trends are going to stick, just like my husband doesn’t know how many points a certain quarterback is going to score (if that is even how fantasy football works??). But all of that is to say that we find it fun and illuminating to put on our research hats and make educated guesses on what’s going to really take off in the design world this year. And at times we are completely right which is *chef’s kiss*. So, won’t you join me in reviewing some of the trends we are seeing and LOVING right now? Quick aside: I am very happy to be writing the bathroom trends predictions this year because I am finally getting serious about giving my rental bathroom a proper makeover. I promise this time. So, while some of the following trends are a little out of my budget/scope, I am feeling VERY inspired by all the innovative bathroom designs and decor choices that are happening right now. And I hope in turn you will feel inspired too. Shall we begin?

Frameless Mirrorsdesign by sarah sherman samuel | photo by nicole franzen

I am delighted, nay, ecstatic about this trend. Frameless mirrors?? You mean mirrors that look a lot like the mirror over my medicine cabinet?? I must be dreaming. But no, it’s actually true because this is a trend I am seeing everywhere, and it’s being done by the most prolific designers, in some stunning bathrooms. Take Sarah Sherman Samuel‘s bathroom above for example. The simplicity of the two mirrors does not take away from the beautiful elements going on here like the marble wall (!!) and gorgeous stone vanity. If anything, they help highlight the eye-catching features even more by being so understated. I LOVE this.

design by arent & pyke | photo by anson smart

In this minimal bathroom by Arent&Pyke, two frameless mirrors are mounted over the double vanity which creates a very effortless vibe. I love that they lean into the minimalist retro vibe that is happening here, and again create an understated look that is really lovely.

design by crystal sinclair designs

This trend even works in bold bathrooms like the one above by Crystal Sinclair. Since this type of mirror is sleek and minimal, it feels modern and highlights the other modern elements happening in the design.

design by laura blindloss of nylon consulting | photo by genevieve garruppo 

This bathroom is proof that we renters can rejoice in this trend. I have a medicine cabinet just like this one, and it’s giving me hope that with a little wallpaper or paint, some new hardware, and some courage, my bathroom can look 100x better.

Shower Windows design by heidi caillier design | photo by haris kenjar

Shower windows can make a bathroom look bigger, brighter, and more open. Having a large enclosed shower room is a ~luxury~ for sure, and who would want to completely conceal that luxury for no one to see? In this bathroom by Heidi Caillier Design, a glass shower door is accompanied by a glass window so you can easily peer inside the shower and see the gorgeous tile and brass finishes.

design by amber interiors | photo by shade degges photography

In this bathroom designed by Amber Interiors, the shower room is sectioned off with a low tiled wall and finished with a glass door and windows. I love that there is a top window that opens for ventilation. It’s functional and adds a utilitarian element that looks awesome.

design by rasneet anand | photo by pulkit sehgal

This walk-in shower offers a bit of privacy but still has the open-concept effect because of the window and lack of a shower door. This trend is perfect for anyone who wants their bathroom shower to have a very open, airy feel but would be best applied to primary bathrooms rather than shared guest bathrooms for privacy reasons.

Fluted Tiledesign by noa santos

I caught on to this one a little later than usual, but once I noticed it was becoming a thing, it started popping up everywhere. We have seen fluted furniture, headboards, and even fluted lighting, but this fluted tile trend is new and very exciting. I love how Noa Santos used a fluted stone to create this natural, organic-looking bathroom vanity. The whole stone slabs also help break up the fluted texture so it’s not too visually overwhelming.

design by sandra flashman studio | photo by anna stathaki

Fluted tile is a great choice if you are thinking about a monotone bathroom. The fluted shape adds texture and movement so there is no shortage of visual interest. The fluted tile wall in this bathroom by Sandra Flashman Studio creates a modern element that is really fun to see.

Wide Grout Linesdesign by asom home | photo by corey gibbons

Here’s a sentence I never thought I would say: Grout is so underrated. It’s like, everyone wants to hide grout or is ashamed of it (and I know it’s hard to clean, trust me!) but embracing the added texture it brings can look very cool. I think that is why we are seeing a major upswing in wide grout lines as of late. Like in this bathroom designed by ASOM home, the horizontal grout lines are noticeably thicker which makes the simple, rectangular tile so much more enticing to look at.

design by fiona duke interiors | photo by anna stathaki

Do you see the difference between the tub and wall tile-to-grout ratio vs. the floor tile-to-grout ratio? With wider grout lines the tile shape itself actually becomes more prominent. I love that there are different tile shapes and two different grout widths in this bathroom designed by Fiona Duke Interiors. It gives the room such a dynamic look and draws your eye in.

design by matt james | build by mj harris group | photo by joel noondesign by matt james | build by mj harris group | photos by joel noon

In this serene bathroom designed by Matt James, square tile covers the entire bathroom, so the thicker grout lines are a must. The grout creates a noticeable break between the tiles, so you can really appreciate the texture, pattern, and color the tile brings to the space.

Circular Rooms And Nooksdesign by proem studio | photo by christopher sturman

I still see photos of Emma Chamberlain’s home tour and my jaw hits the floor. Her outdoor bathroom suite (above) is the perfect example of the fresh/innovative design choices that were made. The whole home tour feels very new and “Gen Z” in a great way! But back to the bathroom. What struck me most (besides the natural stone floors and wood paneling that creates a very outdoorsy vibe) is the circular shower nook. Anytime a room has walls that are not 90-degree angles, it’s going to be very pleasing to the eye. This bathroom is also a great example of creating a spa-like experience at home, and the circular shower just emphasizes that intention.

design by maddux creative | build by andrew penny london | photo by michael sinclair

Even a smaller circular wall cut out like this one by Maddux Creative can make a huge impact and is visually so stimulating. Cutting into the wall like this may cost a little extra, but the result is so stunning (and creates a lovely spot for a bathroom vanity). This trend might just give the notorious arch a run for its money!

T-Shaped Vanitiesdesign by sarah sherman samuel | photo by nicole franzen

We are back to this bathroom by Sarah Sherman Samuel but can you blame me? That vanity needs its own moment. I mean, how exciting is that shape?? What I love most about this choice in this particular bathroom is that it was not a necessity. They could have chosen any size/shape for a vanity so the T-shape is really compelling.

design by noa santos

A T-shaped vanity can be small but mighty, too. Here, Noa Santos implemented the T-shaped vanity on a smaller scale, but the result is just as captivating. I love that the base is wood and the sink basin is stone, which creates a nice nuance of color and texture. The T-shape also takes up less physical and visual space, making the bathroom feel more open.

Double Niches design by heidi caillier design | photo by haris kenjar

Why have one shower niche when you can have two? In the shower above by Heidi Caillier, the tile is broken up by two niches stacked on top of each other. Practically speaking, having a small niche above the larger one adds a place to put smaller products and ultimately provides more in-shower storage, and prevents clutter. (Have you ever experienced trying to grab a shampoo bottle from a niche that is just overflowing with product bottles? Me too–and it’s not fun). From a design standpoint, the stack simply looks aesthetically pleasing and intentional.

design by monica fried design | photo by nicole franzen

Aside from the stack, you can also implement the two shower niche trend on opposite walls, as Monica Fried did in the above bathroom. In this all-marble shower, the niches provide a necessary break for your eye, and again more in-shower storage. Coming from someone who is niche-less in her own bathroom, I am coveting this trend HARD.

Stained Glassdesign and photo by jessica d’Itri marés

You probably wouldn’t have guessed from looking at the above photo, but the stained glass window was actually added after the renovation of this 1949 ranch-style bathroom. It instantly added charm to this awesome arched bathtub nook and compliments the nuanced blue/green colors of the zellige tile–proving that stained glass doesn’t need to be original to look intentional. The combination of the stained glass window, zellige tile, and Spanish-style flooring creates an old-world character that was completely missing before the renovation (seriously, you must check out the before!).

design and photo by libby rawes

In this modern traditional bathroom, I love Libby Rawes‘ decision to keep the original stained glass window in her 1920s home. It preserves the character and charm, while the rest of the design choices lean more minimal and modern. Stained glass has been around for thousands of years so it inherently provides an antique look that is hard to beat.

And that’s all she wrote, folks. Which of these trends is your favorite? Are there any other trends you’ve been noticing that deserve a shout-out? Sound off in the comments. xx

Opener Image Credit: Design by ASOM Home | Photo by Corey Gibbons

The post 8 Bathroom Trends We Are Expecting To See A Lot More Of In 2023 appeared first on Emily Henderson.

Our Farmhouse Pantry Reveal – Moody, Practical And Extremely Well-Used

If you’ve followed for a while (thank you:)) you know that I have a probably-not-so-unique condition where my job and life create a lot of “stuff” (not begrudging it, these are the facts), but my heart/mind/eye can’t stand clutter. I like a clear unstyled countertop, a single long throw pillow on my bed, and dedicated closets/rooms to throw the mess and pretend it’s not mine. It’s part cognitive dissonance, part denial, maybe some ADHD tendencies, and definitely a byproduct of my job. Containing the mess just makes it manageable. Today, I have for you our styled-out, non-messy version of our pantry and I’m SO excited to walk you through it.

So where is the pantry?

As you can see we created this room from the old kitchen, carving enough space to make it really functional.

Here’s a fun video to give you a real sense of the space before we get into the pretty photos! (Just wait for the ad to play:))

This is the first time that we’ve had a room for kitchen storage, and it’s obviously a luxury that is at the top of my gratefulness journal every day, y’all. I personally think it’s worth having a smaller kitchen if you can create a room to throw all the other stuff (I feel the same about a smaller bedroom + larger closet). This room is right off the kitchen, obviously, and after arranging and rearranging based on our needs, I finally put everything where it can go, while also giving myself some visual happiness. So much to say. Where to begin!!!!??

How Do We Use This Room?

Ceiling Light

This room is 75% storage and 25% coffee/tea prep. While I used to think that we would use the tabletop appliances in here, I tend to bring them into the kitchen (besides the toaster). I think this is because the kitchen is just so wonderful to cook in so if I’m blending a soup, I bring the blender out, not the soup in. That’s all to say this is not a prep kitchen, it’s for food, cookware, utensils, cookbooks, countertop appliances, and coffee/tea.

We also have not figured out where the kid’s school stuff should go (papers, so many papers). So often this becomes the mail drop and kid clutter zone (not by choice, but better than on the island).

The cabinetry is made by Unique Kitchen and Baths, laid out with ARCIFORM and myself, of course. They are SO BEAUTIFUL, high quality, and stunning. They mimic the style of the kitchen cabinets but were painted a beautiful deep blue/gray called Slate Tile by Sherwin-Williams. The color is perfect and I want it in more places. We chose a dark-honed granite as the countertop from Bedrosians, knowing that we wanted (at the time) to keep it moody and also there will be a lot of coffee making specifically in here so a light marble was the wrong choice. And if you are in the market for beautiful quality cabinetry I have a little discount code with Unique Kitchen and Baths: EH2022

What Do You Mean You “Wanted To Keep It Moody At The Time“?

Well, I think the main thing I would have done differently is painted the walls, shelves, ceilings, and door a complimentary color to the slate blue of the cabinets – but lighter. When you are in the kitchen this room can feel really dark because the kitchen is so bright. This was a huge debate in this blog post and a decision was made (to keep it dark). I’m not into big “I told you so’s” (many of you agreed with me) but yeah, I was right. I wish we had painted it a powder blue on top – not white, just not quite so dark. Again, it’s not the darkness that bothers me – once you are in the room it’s AWESOME, it’s the contrast from the kitchen. When you look into the room from the kitchen it feels more like a dark storage room, than a pantry that draws you in.

Interior Windows (vintage) | Drawer Pulls | Knobs | Switch Plates (Lewis Collection)

But I will say this – after I styled it out, I really fell in love with it. I leaned into all my favorite serving pieces in whites, blues, and woods and love how they pop off the blue. For accessories, I bought a few vintage ironstone pieces, then splurged on those incredible candles from a store in Portland called Spartan as well as some gorgeous pottery and plates by another local favorite, Notary Ceramics. I also shopped at a local shop, JP General (in Multnomah Village), which is awesome (and is where the cakestand is from).

We used the vintage original windows to flank the opening to the pantry (as seen above) and they let in so much light. (We tried cleaning them but when the sun hit the old glass it looked foggy like that haha, WHOOPS). The hardware, outlets, and light switches are all Rejuvenation in Oil Rubbed Bronze (which is really a very warm black – so pretty). I originally had baskets of food on the shelves, but they were bumming me out. So I attempted to fit all the food either in these decanted jars or in the cupboards and drawers. Once I did that and could display my pretty things it changed the whole room for me. We have plenty of storage honestly, so right now this is totally working, but should we need to put some salty snacks on a shelf we’ll do that, too.

Bread Box

I love the large horizontal beadboard and the more decorative wood brackets are so old-world and charming (IMHO). Jamie and the ARCIFORM team did a stellar carpentry job.

Where’s All Your Food?

As you can see the big drawers hold most of our snacks, onions/potatoes/garlic (so nice to give them their own dark but airy home), and broths/peanut butter/popcorn, etc. I really like how we only did a 1/2 drawer – giving air to the perishables which sends a more utilitarian vibe. That woven wood box is a bread box from the online Amish store that indeed houses our bagels and bread.

Large Black Metal Basket | Slim Black Metal Basket | Wooden Drawer Divider

Once pulled out you can see how much these drawers hold – we have plenty of space and room for even more. We also have a basement (through that door) that is finished but empty (and only 6′ tall) where I might put in shelving to add backup canned goods or anything else that needs storage that we rarely use (thinking pots for plants, maybe cleaning supplies, our dumb huge Instantpot that we use once every two months exclusively for boiled eggs, etc).

We moved all the canned goods to the pull-out drawer with shelves which I really, really love. It’s a great way to free up space and while you have to bend down to choose the right bean, you don’t have to pick up each one to see what it is. The top two drawers house vitamins, aprons, and other miscellaneous items. All our spices and oils have designated drawers in our kitchen so we don’t need to house them in here. Same with our pots and pans, Tupperware, ziplock bags, etc. We are very, very lucky and grateful to have this much kitchen storage.

Where’s All Your Ugly Stuff?

Round Metal Basket | Cereal Containers

I got you. Don’t worry we have ugly stuff too, but as someone whose eyeballs really like to look at my pretty serveware (I know I’m not alone), I tried so hard to design this pantry to hide the less than nice looking stuff inside the cabinets. We worked closely with Tanya and her design team of UKB (and ARCIFORM) to make sure everything had a place. So on the left up there you have our water bottles and countertop appliances. I had them on the upper shelves before but realized getting them down was almost harder than pulling them up. I’ve had that food processor for a month and haven’t used it, and have only used the blender three times so I’m fine with them being enclosed. Then on the right, we have the kids’ cereal and a toaster in an accessible cupboard so that they can access it without us. We also have the bin of cookie/birthday stuff and the cookbooks that are a little less pretty to look at.

Glass Jars

I have come to enjoy decanting our dry goods that I buy frequently in bulk (namely beans and nuts) but individual decanters can be so expensive and often too modern. So I found these classic canning jars, with the tops attached (no screwing on lids, just closing), that are airtight and come in different sizes. I bought three sets of 8 in different sizes and really really love how they look. They are labeled on the top with a sticker for now which is working. You might notice that in some of them (like quinoa) I shoved the bag inside of it so I know how to prepare it – quite the hack, I know.

Ohh how I love my pretty little things. At one point I had 9 white pitchers of different sizes in this pantry, obviously drawn to the shape and old-world vibe. I use them more for flowers than for cream or water. I’ve been collecting ironstone and vintage transferware platters for while and am excited that they all look so good together. The painting is vintage, in a vintage frame that I found and the stack of dishes on the bottom right and bowls on the top left are from Notary Ceramics – I love her stuff so much.

On the back of the door, we put some pegs and in my fantasy world, they hang aprons and brooms. Right now until the landscaping to the mudroom is done we come in and out of the kitchen door making this basement door the home of many a coat. But as of the week before Christmas, the flagstone was almost done and we started bribing the kids with an M&M every time they come in and out of that door – like baby seals. Real innovative parenting, I know.

The Vintage Window

First off, that window didn’t exist before and I’m SO GLAD we put it in. I found it on eBay for $200 (probably could have sourced locally from Aurora Mills) and liked how the pattern worked with the original diamond pattern. We made this decision before they re-sided the house so ARCIFORM and Jamie were able to frame it out and plug it in. It’s non-operable, but lets in so much light and is such a pretty architectural element.

The Coffee And Tea Station

Espresso Machine | Glass Mugs | Gray Mugs | Small White Mugs | Tall White Mugs

We are real coffee people and have various needs for various times of the day. At 6 am, I have drip coffee from a coffee maker to head out and walk the dogs before it’s even light out, so a programmable coffee maker is a MUST.

More recently around 10 am or 1 pm I’ve been craving an afternoon treat/boost but brewing another pot feels excessive. Kaitlin and Emily (who shoot at the house with me twice a week) practically forced me to buy myself this espresso/latte maker for Christmas – you know, for the crew 🙂 It’s WONDERFUL. It’s such a luxury that many people might not need if you don’t work from home, but we LOVE and is a fun treat for all of us.

I really upped my mug game for this pantry shoot – with the clear double-walled glass ones for lattes and espresso (so luxurious), pretty white pottery to support local artists (from Spartan and JP General), larger Rejuvenation mugs in gray, and then my deep Target mugs that I’ve had forever. I really like how it’s mixed up and interesting but not messy.

I’ve also upped my tea game for nights and consider tea a new healthy hobby. I found that vintage store drawer cabinet at a flea market and knew that I wanted it but it was expensive and unsure it had a purpose. Then I realized it could be the home for my tea bags, which fit in the bottom drawer. It makes me SO HAPPY.

Wait, Do You Have A Microwave?

We sure do have a microwave. We hid it behind retractable doors on this side of the pantry, low for easy access for the kids, and it’s pretty darn easy to use. In retrospect, we don’t use it terribly often and didn’t need a retractable option (which I’d imagine is more expensive than a normal hinge), but it’s nice to have as an option (just don’t feel the need to splurge on it – we normally just leave the cupboards open when we heat up anything).

What Would I Change?

I really, really love so much about this room – the color, the function, the space, the style – I love it. But I also love telling you all my thoughts and feelings (remember the first episode of DesignStar? It’s a pathological need). So there are three things that I might have done differently.

Paint the walls/ceiling/door a lighter color (leaving the cabinetry the dark slate tile blue). As you can see in the above photo the contrast between the white of the kitchen and the dark blue is almost hard for your eye to process – the white becomes whiter and the blue comes darker. Not a huge deal, but just wanted to call it out. We might change this, but also might not. I would have added another pull-out trash drawer for additional recycling. We have trash and recycling in the kitchen next to the sink, but Oregon’s recycling is intense and we need to have a separate bin for glass, aluminum cans, regular recycling as well as trash and compost. So right now we have two freestanding garbage cans that crowd the pantry… There are many nights and mornings when I secretly wish we had put a small filtered water sink in here – for coffee and tea. Walking 15 steps to the kitchen sink is absolutely not a big deal, but it would be a three times-a-day convenience, so if you are wondering if I wish we had one the answer is “sure” 🙂 Not sure where it would have gone, BTW (maybe at the bar?).

We have plenty of storage and function, it works so well for our family.

Y’all. I love this room so much and we feel very grateful to have our first walk-in pantry, allowing for the kitchen to be easier to keep clean and clutter-free. Thanks for reading and feel free to comment and share (per usual).

Pantry Resources:
Cabinetry: Unique Kitchen and Baths
Paint Color: Slate Tile by Sherwin-Williams
Flooring: Zena Forest Products(Oregon grown and milled)
Countertop: Bedrosians Tile & Stone
Countertop Fabrication: Alpha StoneWorks
Hardware: Rejuvenation
Light Fixture: Rejuvenation

*Design by Emily Henderson and ARCIFORM
*Photos by Kaitlin Green

The post Our Farmhouse Pantry Reveal – Moody, Practical And Extremely Well-Used appeared first on Emily Henderson.

The Link Up: Em’s Favorite Comfortable Headphones That Stay In Her Ears, Ryann’s Ideal Pillow For Side Sleeping, And A Great Planner

Ok we know last week was technically the first link up of the year, but now we’re back in the office so this one makes it official official. We are endlessly grateful to have had some time away to recharge and see our loved ones but baby we are also so ready to be back, talking with you all in real-time. So please enjoy this week’s links and see you in the comments<3

This week’s house tour is a home that was rescued from being torn down by a local developer in New Orleans. Instead, it was lifted up with immense care by Breeze Braunschweig and her husband, Kartik Ramachandran. The couple drove all over the south finding vintage treasures to fill it with. See the photos and read about the rest of this wonderful story.

From Emily: A new podcast (and an old one with the same host). I was turned on last year to Maintenance Phase, a podcast that debunks diet and wellness culture (of which I admittedly find myself participating in). I have learned SO MUCH, more culturally than scientifically but it’s more that it’s also extremely entertaining – the two hosts Aubrey Gordon and Michael Hobbes are whip-smart, witty, and keep the tone light but poignant. It’s really helped me be more aware of my “hidden” biases, and more than a few times have I felt quickly defensive like “well I’M not like that”, only to feel more educated afterward and change some of my behaviors and impulses. But again, I truly ENJOY the heck out of it and find it a light and educational part of my week. So when one of the co-hosts, Michael, started a new podcast called, If Books Could Kill, I listened to the first one immediately and LOVED IT. For this one, he and Peter Shamshiri are debunking what they are calling “airport books” – the non-fiction books that become crazy popular and are responsible for a lot of cultural thoughts (i.e. Freakanomics, The Game, Blink). When I saw Malcolm Gladwell as their first episode I was like, “well no, not him. he’s THE BEST! Everyone loves Malcolm!” and I won’t spoil it for you (and I’m still a huge fan of MG) but again, it’s just nice to have journalists that are researching and presenting multiple sides and challenging our assumptions. I will say (if they are listening) that for both of these podcasts, I would love them to show even more sides as sometimes I do feel like they are looking to find fault and not give credit to things/methods/ideas that have worked, make sense, or been culturally helpful. Anyway, they are easy fast listens and I feel more educated after listening to both of them, whether I fully agree with them or not.

Also From Emily: While on that note my favorite headphones – my MIL asked me the other day so this is for her. As an avid podcast listener (2-3 hours a day between walking dogs, cooking, and cleaning), I have tried many headphones and it’s been hard to find any that stay in my ears comfortably without falling out, getting lost, last a long time without needing a charge, and aren’t glitchy. These are extra good because they last the longest (hours and hours – I feel like I plug in every other day) and can be far away from the phone should you be cleaning and set it in another room. I’ve tried 3-4 different others since lockdown (eventually I’ll lose one of them – I don’t know how people don’t) and these are by far my favorites (and HOT TIP! I only walk dogs and clean house with one in at a time so I can hear surroundings). They do not have a mic though, so they aren’t for phone or zoom calls.

I will say that when you wear them grocery shopping at Trader Joe’s you don’t look nearly as cool as wearing AirPods. But I don’t lose them and they still in comfortably all day.

jess’ maternal grandparents showing off their new home?? who doesn’t want to take a pic with their pretty shower curtain:)

From Jess: I accomplished something very big that I feel is also very relatable. I downsized and cleared out all SIX boxes from my hallway last week. I had been putting it off for months because they were filled with wonderful sentimental photos and family mementos that felt a little overwhelming to sort through. I wanted to do it “right,” whatever that means. I also wanted to finally get some photo albums which I also assumed would add up very fast. But late last month I decided I didn’t want to start the year with them still sitting here, mocking me. So I sorted, divvied up between some relatives, organized, and then searched for pretty but affordable photo albums. Luckily I found these! I love the natural linen. I wanted the self-adhesive kind because I had so many different photo sizes that just wouldn’t work with any other type. Now I should warn you that you are going to want to make sure your photos are already flat (no curled-up sides) and that they aren’t too thick. Aside from that, I think these are a great option to get your photos out of those boxes and into an album where you can actually enjoy them! Oh, and they come with a pen so you can make notes near the photos:)

Also From Jess: Is this the year I get into line dancing??? New Years Resolution #3: A lot more dancing!

In case you are in the market for some beautiful home furnishing, HD Buttercup (where Em got this beloved rug and Jess borrowed this dresser) is having their Half-Yearly Sale! They are giving off an extra 30% off everything (even clearance items) store and sitewide. We are big fans as they kinda have everything (even vintage!).

From Caitlin: I bought this dad hat on Black Friday and it’s quickly become the most-complimented thing I own. I mean…nothing really captures weird 2000s ennui like the ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ guy, you know? (But seriously, do not recommend buying this unless you enjoy conversations with strangers. It’s endless. TSA employees! Fellow airport passengers! People at the laundromat! A guy in the Jack in the Box parking lot! People LOVE talking about this dumb hat – it’s insane.)

Also From Caitlin: I loooooove NPR’s Life Kit podcast, but I’m especially excited by the Resolution Planner they launched this year! I’m not super into “New Year’s” resolutions (my hack: try out a few new habits in November/December to see what’s tenable to keep up for an entire year), but this is just a treasure trove of good and specific advice on everything from “keeping the house clean” to “getting kids to listen better” to “being more decisive” and “finding purpose.” (If you want to learn how to do it, there’s probably a Life Kit episode about it.) Happy listening:)

From Ryann: After years of sleeping on old pillows that I have had to fold and smush in ridiculous, ungodly ways just to get comfortable, I finally got a new pillow that I LOVE. It’s a perfect pillow for side sleepers as it has a curve that cradles your head and shoulders, and it’s not too soft so your neck is actually supported. I look forward to sleeping on this pillow every night. And right now it’s almost 50% off! Run don’t walk.

From Mallory: My cousin got me this planner for Christmas and I absolutely love it – it’s laid out so well and has cute little stickers you can put on it to motivate you throughout the year & help plan your life. If you’re looking to get more organized in 2023, this is just the thing to help ya do it! 🙂

Hope everyone’s year is all to a good start and those in California are ok from all the rain. We are happy and grateful you are here. See you tomorrow for a pretty exciting reveal:)

Opening Image Credits: Design and Styled by Dee Murphy of Murphy Deesign | Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: The New Design Rules

The post The Link Up: Em’s Favorite Comfortable Headphones That Stay In Her Ears, Ryann’s Ideal Pillow For Side Sleeping, And A Great Planner appeared first on Emily Henderson.