Emily Henderson's Blog, page 175

15 DIY Projects That Are Guaranteed To Make Your Home Even Prettier (From Decor To Furniture)

It may be for the fact that I am on season 7 of Scrubs in a timeframe that might horrify you or that I’ve done the same puzzle TWICE within the past 8 months (I only have one so that’s on me), but I have been itching to DIY something. My eyes desperately need a break from the screen! But like a lot of people nearly exactly one year into quarantine, peeling my eyes away from that sweet sweet blue light requires a VERY good and engaging distraction. Sooo ya, getting “crafty” for the sake of filling time won’t really be enough to interest me and I have the 1/4 finished cross stitch to prove it. I want to create something that’s cool, beautiful, and that I want to display proudly in my home.

I figured that since I’m likely not the only one feeling this way that it was high time for a good, and dare I say chic, DIY roundup! We’ve done DIY posts before and obviously have featured countless genius projects from EHD alum and our contributors, but I realized I had saved a bunch on my phone from non EHD creators that I really wanted to share. I also tapped the rest of the team because 8 eyeballs scouring the internet are better than one, right?

So get ready to put those hands to work because I doubt you will leave this post without some inspiration to do something cool to liven up your space:)

Decor $15 Large Scale Wall Art By Paper & Stitch

Affordable large scale art isn’t easy to come which I probably why our updated repost of this post last month did SO WELL. The people want big art and I am no different. Cue in Brittni Mehlhoff, a DIY genius. Her site is always one of the first places I go for a great (and great-looking) DIY. You obviously get it by looking at that somehow $15 (!) piece of art she made. Now what you can’t tell about it from those photos is that those blush shapes are sewn on! That means it’s not only beautiful but textured and multi-dimensional. Don’t worry, she has options for people that can’t sew:) Anyway, if one of your walls needs some lovin’, this is a great project that can be as big as you want to fix that asap.

Architectural Planters By Peony And Honey

This one came from Mallory via The Lone Fox Journal (but created by Erika of Peony and Honey) and now I just might be making some planters this month. Man, these are chic, affordable, and would elevate anyone’s home. Actually, they would also make really heartfelt gifts that you could safely drop off to your friends or family. Think how nice and cool you would look!

Staircase Runner Makeover By Rebecca And Genevieve

I mean. What. A. Transformation. The entire space is wonderful but I am focusing on those stairs. If you don’t follow Valeria Jacobs of Rebecca And Genevieve then go do that right now. She is currently renovating her home and it’s full of pattern, texture, and so many great ideas.

As for this stairwell, she doesn’t give a full step by step but if you are handy and look through this post and this reel, I have every bit of faith you will nail it!

Textured Table Lamp By This House 5000

Elena of This House 5000 is another must-follow. Why? Well her home is beautiful and her content is fun/inspiring. So when I stumbled upon this little DIY challenge she did with a few other influencers I was down for the ride.

What started out as a simple little lamp, turned into a completely custom and textured functional accent to add to her already awesome desk. So with some clay, raffia, paint, and baking soda you too could have the cutest lamp ever on your desk too. Here is her step-by-step reel.

Fabric Paper Mache Bowls By Paper & Stitch

Brittni is at it again with these sweet bowls. Want a splash of unexpected pattern? Have some fun fabric you don’t know what to do with? Y’all make some unique bowls! She has a full step-by-step tutorial (as does all of her projects) and if you do them right, after only one hour you will have a great little dish. HOT TIP: As shown in her examples, we think small-scale patterns are probably going to look best for a small dish.

Upgrade Any Vase By Simplicite Design

This great DIY is very much in the same vein as Elena’s lamp by Mansa Krishnamurthy. If you have a vase or planter, just add a pottery texture to it! Mansa, took a couple of pieces and simply mixed baking soda and paint to create a high-end looking finish. Her secret though is adding pepper for added texture. Go to her site for all the info.

Wall TreatmentsThe Non-Removable Removable Wallpaper By Studio DIY

RENTERS REJOICE! Caitlin get props for this one! I think ALL of us were SO excited about this wall-saving DIY from Kelly of Studio DIY. She basically shows us (and now you) how literally any wallpaper can be made “removable”. This is not to take away from the great companies that sell temporary wallpaper, but when you have your heart set on that one print that only comes in a permanent option it’s a bummer. Well, until now that is! Go to Kelly’s post for how she did and also to happily stare at her son’s closet makeover:)

O and here’s another way that Kelly credits in her post from Amal Iqbal that uses Elmer’s Glue!

Painted Wall Pattern by Sarah Sherman Samuel

Are you surprised this is a Sarah Sherman Samuel wall?? Probably not because it’s chic and effortless (well, effortless-looking… I am sure it took a decent amount of effort:)) I love how subtle it is as opposed to this version which is bolder (which I actually love too). It’s such an affordable way to really make a statement while highlighting something that is already on the wall.

Family Command Center By Anita Yokota

If you and your family have a tough time keeping your drop zone and schedules straight (isn’t that most everyone?) then take notes from Anita Yokota’s command center. It’s a pretty beautiful and straightforward way to keep your life and house in order. Head to her blog for how she made it look so great!

FurnitureTHE One Drink Table By Made By Carli

I know that the holidays are over but I am NOT OVER those one-drink nesting tables by Carli Alves of Made by Carli. They are both rustic and modern, adding just the right amount of warm texture to a space. I typically see these similarly shaped tables with a marble base like in Lea’s reveal from earlier this week which looks so pretty, but this all-wood version is pulling at my heartstrings. In Carli’s post, she shows you exactly what you’ll need and how to do it. This is another DIY that having some power tools and some general handiness is going to help.

Awkward Nook Turned Secret Door By Luke Arthur Wells

Ryann was the one to turn me onto Luke and WOAH, this transformation makes my brain explode in the best way possible. Luke took what was an awkward nook in his dining room and made the coolest looking secret storage closet probably ever. This is for sure labor-intensive (he show you how here) but if you also suffer from awkward nook syndrome then I hope this really inspires you!

Tablecloth “No Sew“ Headboard By Luke Arthur Wells

Luke again and it’s true… no sewing machine was used for this incredible DIY. Just two H&M Home tablecloths and a staple gun.

I love how he covered the entire frame and not just the headboard. It makes such a cool impact. Tablecloths are not just for tables.

The Cabinet Makeover By Made By Carli

I just. I just sometimes can’t handle some people’s creativity. Here Carli is again (for a Drew Barrymore Show design challenge) and KILLED IT with transforming that very plain dresser into the most cool and functional bar cabinet. She goes into the whole process in this post so you can do something similar if you are up for the DIY challenge. Also, the look of worry and anticipation for what paint color Drew sent her to incorporate is too comical lol. P.S. It’s the yellow hiding in the back of the bar:)

The Cutest Daybed Ever (?) By Panels Of My Home

Imelda is at it again (remember this play kitchen inspired by her personal dream kitchen we featured?). I still can’t believe she MADE THIS for her One Room Challenge. Handmade, this would cost thousands of dollars. But in true Imelda fashion, she was having none of that and did it herself. Check out her process here. She doesn’t go into too much detail but since anyone wanting to attempt this would need some experience anyway, I think there’s enough for you to get the idea!

Arched Headboard By Paper & Stitch

Did you think I would leave you with a DIY post in 2021 and NOT include an arched headboard?? I think we all fell hard for the one in Allprace’s Japandi reveal and now you can have it in your home if you want AND it only costs $150! Brittni of Paper & Stitch is of course the mastermind behind this stunner so you only know she has detailed instructions. I think this is so pretty and especially if you are an arch lover but either rent or don’t want put arches in your home’s architecture then this is your solution.

Inspired? Wired? Fired…Up? Rhyming isn’t my forte so I will leave you here to enjoy your Saturday and hope that you now take a good long break from your screen and maybe even DIY a little (that’s my plan:))

Love you, meant it.

GO HERE FOR A GAZILLION MORE IDEAS!

Opening Image Credit: Design by Luke Arthur Wells

The post 15 DIY Projects That Are Guaranteed To Make Your Home Even Prettier (From Decor To Furniture) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

How to Beat Pinterest Paralysis & *Actually* Design Your Dream Space

Alternate title idea: Imposter Syndrome is Real, But I Didn’t Let it Stop Me…Oh and Let Me Teach You How to Moodboard! Whew was that a mouthful, hence why it didn’t make the cut. Hey EHD world. It’s Arlyn, ex-EHDer who just can’t quit this blog. I’m here today to do a little storytelling and a little self-promotion. The former being something I’m perhaps too comfortable doing, and the latter something I’m, eh…working on.

Earlier this month, Emily introduced you to the Skillshare package of classes from the wonderful Albie Buabeng, Mikel Welch, and me. While I’ll definitely go a bit deeper into what my course is about, what I hope everyone will come out of my lessons equipped with, and even what my process was to put the workshop together, I thought it would be fun to get a look at some of the behind-the-scenes. Before my experience filming, I would have had no idea what went into working on something like this. I’m a writer, design-lover and professional behind-the-scenes-er, so when I was asked to yank myself out of the warm embrace of that very cozy (invisible) place and be an in-front-of-the-scenes-er, it was quite the journey through the treacherous land called Imposter Syndrome. Oh, the peaks and valleys. Settle in, it’s storytime.

(Article express lane alert: For anyone who doesn’t care a lick about behind-the-scenes, feel free to scroll down to the section called “The class I wish I had for myself 5 years ago.” I mean, you’ll miss all the fun, but I understand if you just want to get to the meat of it.)

do i look confident?What It Was Like Working with Skillshare

First and foremost, I want to say that the team at Skillshare is full of such wonderful humans, and I promise I’m not writing this because I’m trying to get on their good side. I had the luxury of getting a small glimpse into the method back when Emily filmed her styling course. Velinda from our team at the time (oh what a wonderful time that was) was helping Em pull things together for the workshop and she always mentioned how lovely they were and how easy they made everything. She wasn’t wrong.

My first meeting with the team was before I accepted the project officially. It was a “feel it out” video call that I took from my bed. I was in the midst of some physical limitations (I injured myself back in August after falling off a bench…trying to rid my house of a pesky spider. The spider won). Worried filming would be too demanding for my weak, ailing back and legs, I was upfront and honest with them about it all. Some say “fake it ‘til you make it” but I prefer to put all the cards on the table and then see if someone is still interested. They were so gracious, saying they’d work with me however it suited me best, even if I needed to be seated the whole time. Lots of breaks would be built in, filming could be spread over a few days if I needed it. I mean, serious red carpet treatment, folks. They gave me a few days to think through it as I wanted to discuss it with my husband. He encouraged me to do it, and I said I’d see how I felt by the end of the weekend to make my choice. The truth is, I was partly using my injury as an out because I didn’t entirely feel “worthy” of the ask. Who was I to teach anyone anything? Keep reaching.

Anyhow, you know when you tell yourself “if so and so happens, then I’ll take it as a sign I should do so and so”? Yeah, half my decisions are made as a result of this practice. By Sunday, I felt not horrible (a miracle at the time), and delivered my excited yet very nervous “yes” the next day. A handful of calls and emails were exchanged over the next month, and filming would take place just before Thanksgiving.

What had I gotten myself into?

part of “b roll” was sitting on the couch, smiling, pretending to look at stuff on my laptop. i think i was convincing. The BTS of Filming

By the time all my surfaces had been restyled, fresh flowers arranged, sofa velvet evened out, pillows fluffed, I had walked back some of the imposteriness of the previous weeks. Once I knew the Skillshare team wanted me to teach on the subject of moodboarding, I felt a little more comfortable. I had been moodboarding for years, sometimes for fun, sometimes for work, mostly to get out my design itches. There was even a dinner I had with a very close friend soon after I arrived in LA when she said, and I quote: “If only you could figure out how to make money teaching people how to do those design boards you do so well.” Ha, foreshadowing much?

The night before “the big day,” I could barely settle my pulse below 100 bpm. I wouldn’t call it panic so much as anticipation (and okay, a tiny bit of panic). While I was grateful there was no script, I was almost more nervous that I didn’t have something to go off. You see, we had established an outline together on what the lessons would be about, and the delightful Kaye from the Skillshare team kept assuring me that the filming would run like a conversation. She’d ask me questions, I’d answer them and talk through things, she’d ask more questions, I’d keep answering, and then we’d be done! Easy peasy-ish.

The two fantastic women who would be my on-site film crew (shout out to Stav and Kayci!) came by the afternoon before to set up lighting, do sound checks, move around furniture. I hadn’t had anyone in my home for months as I was a stickler about social distancing (and by that, I really mean social isolation), so I threw open all the windows for air circulation and prepared to hover at least six feet away from them at all times. For anyone who is curious, anyone on the in-person camera crew is regularly tested for COVID, wears a mask all day, and 100% abides by all the necessary protocol. For a dyed-in-the-wool hypochondriac and worrier, it felt risky, but I was resolved to trust the precautions being taken.

To them, it was a regular Wednesday afternoon, but to me, it was like watching someone else’s totally regular Wednesday afternoon through a TV screen…a layer of “unrealness” separating me from it all. It’s a funny thing that happens when you suddenly become the subject. I had spent my entire journalistic career on the other side of the recorder/phone/camera/inbox. To flip-flop the situation was 100% out of my comfort zone, but my mantra through it all was “why not me?” Those three words echoed in my head anytime imposter syndrome would kick in. I’d be lying if I said they didn’t still.

That night, I settled into the steaming tub of water I ran for myself, sprinkled in lavender-scented bath salts, and tried to relax. I rehearsed some thoughts out loud, trying to get comfortable with my own voice, trying not to sound questioning of my own statements. Teachers are confident, helpful, understanding. Did I sound that way, too?

not shown: the six or seven times i filmed the part where i tell the class that i’m a “writer and designer.”Lights, Camera, Zoom Call, Action

This is where we jump to the part of the story where I tell you it was SO easy, a dried-up cactus could do it! While the team definitely made the process smooth, talking off the cuff to a camera with lights pointed at your face and a laptop not that far away with several faces floating on a Zoom call (the NY-based team videos in to make sure all is going according to plan) is not a natural feeling for a quasi-introvert. I stumbled, I asked to restart numerous times, I stared up at the ceiling envisioning my brain flatlining even more times. I remember a point where Kaye (my head producer if I haven’t mentioned that already) asked me to do another take of something “for options” and I sat there for what felt like 12 years, eyes blinking, not able to remember what I had just said. Through the laptop, she fed me back my lines with the patience and benevolence of a Buddhist monk. Bless you, Kaye.

I’m happy to report that once I got through the discomfort of talking about myself and got to the actual teaching, I settled in and felt natural. This is what I do. I’ve been instructing in one way or another in written form for over a decade. I got into the groove of walking through all the nitty-gritty steps of how I build my moodboards, how you can do it, too. Any lingering symptom of imposter syndrome cleared up. I remember telling my husband Charles at the end of the day how proud I was of myself. “I DO know things. I CAN teach people.” He nodded his head; he already knew both those things about me, he said back to me.

My last word on the behind-the-scenes is this: Skillshare is legit and they take the courses they release and the production that goes into said courses to release very seriously. I’m honored to have been picked to teach a workshop.

a super quick glimpse into my class. curious yet?!?“The Class I Wish I Had For Myself 5 Years Ago.”

If you made it this far, congratulations! You just lived through what I jokingly said to Jess before turning this post in would be best titled “Arlyn: The Skillshare Years.” If you skipped ahead, hey, welcome, you missed all the fun (I warned you).

Like I wrote at the start of this post, I thought it could be fun to pull back the veil. The whole undertaking was a whirlwind to experience as a “normal” person (meaning, not someone who is used to being the “talent”). But let’s finally—GOOD GOD FINALLY—get to the topic of my class. While I won’t go line by line and essentially reteach everything here in the written form (gotta leave something for you to learn in the course!), I’ll give you a brief overview. Essentially, my Skillshare class takes you through the “pre-design” process, from inspiration through moodboarding, a.k.a. everything you need to do before you actually dip into your bank account and accept a delivery on anything.

I have been putting together moodboards for years, figuring out the kinks myself in how to do it best along the way. “The class I wish I had for myself 5 years ago,” is how I would loosely describe this to anyone who asked. When I was working through the syllabus with the team, I tried to think about areas where I struggled before I solidified my system. Mostly, they were organization, action, and the dreaded Pinterest Paralysis . If you just thought “that’s all the things to struggle with, Arlyn,” you’d be correct. I’d pin pin pin pin pin without knowing where to go next. Products and images across numerous boards that I’d stare at for months, years. Then I’d just buy something and hope for the best. THIS IS HOW PROFESSIONALS DO IT! (I’m kidding).

Not a single time before I finished my living and dining rooms did I actually create a space that felt cohesive and well-rounded. And I finally know why that is: because I didn’t do enough planning. Even if it’s not in your budget to finish a room all at once, I implore you to go through the moodboarding process. It’s my fail-safe way to “date” products and paint colors, see how everything works—or doesn’t work—together before ever spending a dime. I also found that splitting up the room you’re designing into multiple moodboards (what I call “vignettes” in the course) was crucial to not overlooking something. A lot of the designers I follow seem to plot out a room all on one board, but for a non-professional, I think that could be overwhelming.

a moodboard vignette looking toward my sofa.on the opposite wall, an iteration of my fireplace and tv set up.the finished product. ooohh aahhhh.

Another thing I go through is how to get from the save-all-the-inspo phase to actually shaping a room’s design. There’s a purging process, a “trend-spotting” part, and the pre-moodboard vision board. That last part is something I’ve added recently that has seriously helped me avoid wandering decorating eyes or distractions.

Now, something I want to say for anyone who has taken or will take my course is the following: You do NOT need to know Photoshop to do what I did in my course. I walk through the steps in Photoshop because that’s what is most comfortable to me, but you could apply all the same principles even if you printed and cut things out and taped it all together on an old school poster board. I promise. If you have Adobe knowledge, then great! If not, find the method that works for your skillset/program access, and proceed. (Skillshare has great courses to help you learn Photoshop, too, so take my workshop then get the most out of that membership and keep on learnin’!)

my zoom with em:)Wrap It Up, Arlyn

Thank you for ingesting 2,000+ words up there. Hopefully, you had some fun, or at least scratched some curiosity itches, with all my behind-the-scenes details. And I’d be lying if I didn’t also hope you might want to head on over to Skillshare to take my class and learn how to plan out your perfect room! I spend time in the discussion boards over there and have had some great chats with some of my students, too!

Oh, and the best news: Don’t forget that you can get two free weeks of Skillshare (to take my course, Albie’s, Mikel’s, and a ton more, of course) with this link. I hope to see you over there, soon!

Opening Image Credits: Left – Arlyn’s Pinterest | Right – Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp, From: Reveal: Arlyn’s Bright & Happy Rental Living Room Makeover

The post How to Beat Pinterest Paralysis & *Actually* Design Your Dream Space appeared first on Emily Henderson.

What You Bought and Loved Last Month (Spoiler Alert: It Includes The Best, Insanely Affordable Sweatshirt Ever)

We recommended HUNDREDS of products in the 28 days we had in February, but there were 10 products that everyone unanimously loved and bought a lot of. So it’s true, our “what you bought last month” post is BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND. Lots of them are beauty/self-grooming products which is probably a mix of our human desire to perform “self-care” and also the desire to smell good (glad I’m not alone in that) BUT THAT’S NOT ALL. My favorite zero-calorie beverage may have also made the list. So if you’re curious about what everyone bought and loved, scroll through and see the top sellers in February.

Starting out in last place at the big double-digit #10, we have…

10. Mallory’s Aerin Beauty Perfume

I was shocked to see this make the list because I didn’t think people buy perfume on the internet often (and a pretty pricey one at that) but it turns out if someone tells you it smells amazing and the reviews also tell you it smells amazing, you have a pretty good shot at loving it. I got a sample of this in the mail and boy oh BOY was I into it. If you’re looking for a good perfume rec, check out the link up where I recommended this in because the comments tell you everything you need to know about every single perfume on the internet.

9. Emily’s Favorite Workout Jacket Ever

Em has had this jacket for 3 years and counting and she STILL wears it on the reg. I totally get why this sold so well…a chilly weather-approved workout jacket that you also love wearing for most outdoor activities is one of those things everyone should invest in and it doesn’t get much better than this one.

8. Paper Towel Holder

This paper towel holder is not only cute, but it’s affordable and I believe it makes home a better place. This came from our post about our favorite practical household items, check it out if you missed it! There are some REALLY useful items in there I never knew I needed.

7. Peach Honey AHA

AHA I mean HAHAHA. I had no clue this would get so many purchases, but YOU GUYS. Peach honey AHA is the best sparkling water ever. It beats the shit out of any Spindrift, La Croix, or Buble flavor I’ve ever had and that says a lot because I’m obsessed with all of those sparkling waters. Take it from me, the sparkling water connoisseur…you gotta try this one! OH and side note. When I said I drink 12 cans of these a day in this link up, please know that was an exaggeration. I don’t actually drink that many. It was a joke

6. Caitlin’s Body Oil

If you missed Caitlin’s how to take the best shower ever post, then please run over to read it (and fair warning: you will pee yourself laughing). It’s one of the most epic posts to ever have been featured on this blog and it includes the very amazing. PS This was first an Emily recommendation so that’s TWO huge stamps of approval.

5. Caitlin’s Underarm Soap

Caitlin swears by this $8 underarm soap from Megababe –– especially after switching to natural deodorant –– she’s on an eternal quest to make them smell like nothing all the time and she said this helps A LOT. I just bought it too and cannot wait to try.

4. Groovy Luna Jewelry

I was so happy to see my friend’s new Etsy shop made it on this list!! If you haven’t yet, check out Groovy Luna Jewelry. They have such cute earrings…I have the square hoops on the right and wear them every single day but I also love these moon/star earrings. Sooo cute.

3. Mallory’s Midi Dress

This dress is on a MAJOR sale ($108 to $64) and it’s one we’ve all been eyeing for a looooong time. 10/10 in the midi dress department and perfect for spriiiiiing! There aren’t too many sizes left, so snag this QUICK.

2. Caitlin’s Wellness Journal

Caitlin’s products are all over this list because everything she recommends is so good and this wellness journal is no different. They have about 1,000 different designs and they’re all SO cute, so you can pick the one that’s the most “you.” I just ordered one and I can’t wait to use it.

1. Jess’s $18 Cropped Hoodie

As the greatest steal in 2021, we’re not too surprised to see this $18 ball of comfy up here at the top of the list. It’s cute, it’s cropped (but not too cropped), makes you feel cool without trying, and comes in A TON of different colors. Jess, no joke, now has FIVE. They’re all so good and the price is truly unbeatable. Way to go, Jess! Oh and if you are into tie-dye you are in luck:)

Thanks everyone for reading this post. Short and sweet…we’ll see you next month for March’s top sellers! So long, farewell. Xx

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: 11 Ways To Pull Together A Dreamy Bedroom Suite

The post What You Bought and Loved Last Month (Spoiler Alert: It Includes The Best, Insanely Affordable Sweatshirt Ever) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

How Ryann Wants To Add More Pattern Into Her Home: A Wallpaper Dilemma/Ask The Audience

I am about 80% done with my open concept living and dining room makeover so naturally I am adding more things to my plate (because is a room ever really finished??). I’ve sourced most of the furniture, window treatments, art, and decor so waiting for shipping and installing everything is the final step. Now, as if I am not on a deadline, I have this urge to make one more pretty big design decision. I have this feeling that I really need a wallpaper moment. More specifically, a bold patterned wallpaper moment.

Inspiration design by nathalie farman-farma | photo by miguel flores-vianna | via house and gardens

Around the time I started complicating my design process with this idea, I heard of this new wave the kids are calling #cluttercore. It’s basically a Gen Z aesthetic that is about surrounding yourself with things you love so it feels as warm and inviting as “walking into a hole-in-the-wall antiques shop on a rainy day.” Images you’ll find on Tik Tok and google are mostly of teenagers’ bedrooms with books, clothes, plants, and other tchotchkes stacked all around the room in an “organized mess”. It’s probably every parent’s nightmare and yet I relate to it A LOT. It’s not the adult design aesthetic that I am striving for now but I’m pretty sure I was an OG #cluttercore teenager which explains my adult leanings toward a maximalist eclectic style. My style is the adult version of clutter core–it’s the same idea just more sophisticated and intentional.

design by gavin houghton | photo by James mcdonald

My version includes decorating with patterns, books, colors, and vintage finds in a way that isn’t messy but curated and visually exciting. I love having things I love surround me and it’s in large part about how I want a room to make me feel when I walk in.

design by nathalie farman-farma | photo by miguel flores-vianna | via house and gardens

With this style, I feel pattern mixing is done most effectively with textiles. Mixing patterned wallpaper, window treatments, and upholstery can be risky but when it works it WORKS so damn good.

Now you might already know my living room is already painted this color by Clare so you may be wondering where the hell I’d fit in some wallpaper. It’s not the ceiling (I WISH) but this tiny built-in shelf that provides the only architectural interest in our home:

I am a firm believer that shelves look best when they are full top to bottom with books. Unfortunately, our built-in nook is a little too shallow for this purpose. Only the pocket-sized books fit properly so the shelves will be styled with some books, vases, and other objects. Knowing that it won’t be full of books, I started to feel underwhelmed by the plain white break in my beautiful moody green walls. I mean, it’s fine, but it doesn’t excite me at all. When going for sophisticated #cluttercore, pattern mixing is a way to create visual interest without crowding every surface with “stuff”. Instead of surrounding myself with stuff, I am aiming to surround myself with pattern and color that excite me and art and decor that inspire me.

When I told my fiancé about my wallpaper idea his response was, “that would be sick but probably a pain in the ass to do”. So far, a few of our installations have gone amiss and he’s been “Mr. Fix It” while I panic in the background. I know he has no desire to watch me attempt to wallpaper this myself, do it wrong, and then need him to step in and save the day BUT I can’t shake the nagging feeling that it would be a missed opportunity if we don’t go for it.

For now, let’s table the discussion on whether Rocky thinks it’s a good idea and move onto the wallpaper options I am eyeing:

1. Stripes Wallpaper Roll | 2. Magnolia Home Wallpaper | 3. Marchmont Check Wallpaper | 4. Greer Burgundy Gingham Check Burgundy Wallpaper | 5. Palatine Stripe Wallpaper | 6. Acadia Stripe Wallpaper | 7. Tempaper Black and Ivory Plaid Removable Wallpaper | 8. Textured Stripe Wallpaper | 9. Tulip Wallpaper

Stripes and checks are bold but not too visually jarring. Not that I am going for anything too subtle, clearly, but I also don’t want to complicate my design with a pattern or color that doesn’t make sense. These options excite me and feel safe enough to execute.

And then we have the floral options that make my heart sing:

1. Magnolia Home Wallpaper |2. Floral Wallpaper | 3. The Cottage Blue Wallpaper | 4. Heirloom Rose | 5. Smoky Rose Wallpaper | 6. Ray Bird Trail Wallpaper | 7. Flower 3D Embossed Wallpaper | 8. Floral Toile Wallpaper | 9. Rose Calico Floral Rose Wallpaper

Botanical wallpaper makes the most sense with our style and the direction our living room is going but it is more of a risk. I love the idea but am a little nervous about the execution and how well it will pair with the other patterns we already have in our design.

So, now I’d love to hear your thoughts. Do you think we should go for it or is wallpaper going to drive Rocky to end our engagement?? Suggestions, comments, and concerns welcome! xx

Opener Image Credit: Design by Rita Konig | Photo by Paul Massey | via House and Gardens

The post How Ryann Wants To Add More Pattern Into Her Home: A Wallpaper Dilemma/Ask The Audience appeared first on Emily Henderson.

So You Want To Put An Arch In Your House? Read This First

We know we aren’t alone in our love for the arch. But is an arch right for every house? Are there some homes or rooms that an arch just shouldn’t live in? (For the sake of ease and fun “Arch” is both a noun and a verb in this post). Who can “arch” and who shouldn’t? Is every arch made equal? 2018 was “The Year of the Arch” and when we first started seeing it pop up into so many amazing designs. But three years later while we still love it, we do want to explore whether or not every house should “arch” or what exactly are the parameters around the hottest way to design a doorway in 2021 and beyond.

Let’s go ahead and recognize that the arch is not new in architecture, just ask the Roman Coliseum, The Great Wall of China, and the Roman Aqueduct. It started with an architectural purpose: when spanning great lengths, an arch is stronger than a squared-off beam because there isn’t only one weak point in the middle, there is a sort of diagonal compression that makes it stronger (don’t quote me, but based on my research you get it). That’s why bridges are arched instead of flat. The original arch builders definitely didn’t add arches to garner Instagram likes, they had a purpose.

Like most things, an architectural element with a function can also become decorative and start infiltrating areas where strength doesn’t matter – the arch just looked good. While I did love deep-diving into the history of the arch, let’s fast forward to well, NOW. Why would you put in an arch in 2021 if it’s not for structural reasons?

Reasons To Add An Arch: To bring in architectural interest through a contrasting shape – A soft circle to all those hard lines. A house is typically full of 90-degree angles and often can feel like a box what with the floor/ceiling/wall/wall formula. An arch adds a softer shape that makes it feel more interesting. To create a nook – An unexpected moment of coziness that you feel like you step into. A way to make pass-through spaces special – The transitions between rooms – are more interesting and feel like they have some sort of identity. To simply make a space feel more interesting – Adds more architectural interest. Types Of ArchesThe semi-circle (or half circle) arch – The ‘arch du jour/decade’ is an exact semi-circle at the top. We love how simple it is and feels just as good in a really contemporary space. The Gothic arch – Think church archways that meet at a point. This can be trickier in many architectural styles, but if you are into churches then go for it. The soft archway – This one is less continuous, it goes up straight then has a lower and more elongated arch. I think this looks so pretty in Georgian or colonial-style homes. designs by sarah sherman samuel | far right photo: stoffer photography interiorsDon’t Do a “Random Arch”

An arch would ideally be an architectural feature that you bring in consistently throughout your home. Like most architectural elements, it’s best to have it be a part of the story of your home, regardless of your home’s style, to make your home look and feel cohesive. Take Sara Sherman Samuel – she can arch like no one else.

Consider Your Architectural Style

While we always want to promote all forms of creativity, we also want to help you avoid falling into expensive trend mistakes when renovating. While arches (or versions of an arch) exist very organically in Mediterranean, Spanish, and Moroccan style homes (and dope new builds), the semi-circle arch is less architecturally relevant in some newer, more American style homes – think Craftsmen, Georgians, and Tudors. But other types of arches could totally work in those, too. That doesn’t mean that you can’t do something interesting where you would arch. Just do some research and then do it consistently. Like at our Tudor it had this version of an arch:

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: living room update – againIf You “Arch” Into A Room You Have To Arch Out Of It (Don’t Mix Doorway Styles)design by studio diy | photos by jeff mindell

There are of course exceptions to this, but if you are using the arch as your doorway, don’t mix different shaped doorways and all of a sudden have a normal square. It might look like you are just trying to put an arch into your house because you like them, not that it should exist there.

Also, be careful not to add an arch to make your house look like a Tuscan or Italian villa – generally trying to go old-world, and copying an architectural style that originated on a different continent in NEWer construction is dangerous. It can look very Real Housewives/McMansion-y. There are so many in, of course, California Mediterannean bungalows, but I’d say if you are building new be careful about trying to replicate an older style (and instead just do something fresh).

So then with these rules and guidelines, I’m looking at the past projects I’ve done and wanted to see if there was an appropriate opportunity to put in an arch? Did I miss an arch moment??

photo by tessa neustadt | from: how we styled our living room to sell

– Now you might think that this mid-century couldn’t handle an arch, then you look at Sara Shermans Samuel’s house and my goodness it’s just awesome. But for this particular house, I probably wouldn’t have because it really would have mainly been the hallway doors.

– As seen in the graphic earlier in the post, it would be a for sure no for me.

photos by sara ligorria-tramp | from (left to right): the portland office, the portland living room

–  I suppose the office/living room/dining could have had soft arches instead. So a total option. But also I really love how it turned out.

– I guess I could have but not sure with that big A-frame. However, it could have 100% worked but so happy with what we did.

So there you have it. My three big guidelines I think everyone should consider before arching. Renos with no regrets is what I hope to help everyone with (which is why I’m writing a book about it:)) Ok now let’s talk about arches. See you in the comments. xx

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: Living Room Update – Again

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Lea’s Living Room Reveal: Her Pet And Family-Friendly Open Concept Design Agony SOLVED

Hi everyone! Lea here with my living room reveal that started as my problem child but with the help of Emily turned into a functional and cozy room my whole family can enjoy. But let me back up and remind you where we started. Back in November, I wrote about my open concept living and dining room design agony and was fortunate enough to have Emily to bounce ideas off of and help me envision what I wanted from this space. As a stylist, I tend to get sucked into every detail which I obsess over, and with this room let me tell you, I OBSESSED. It wasn’t until Emily kept driving the MOST important question home, “how does it make you feel?” that I realized what was lacking. I wanted this space to be functional, comfortable, and (of course) beautiful, but there were some design hurdles I had to get over first.

To give you an idea of the layout here is my impressive stick figure drawing of the floor plan:

Along with making this room as pet and family-friendly as possible, the open concept presented challenges. Plus this is the first room you see when entering the house. I wanted it to be inviting, functional, and a place where my family and pets would feel comfortable spending time in. This is where we left off when we last chatted:

Sigh…that rug was one of my favorites but a deep blue rug with white dog fur that sheds like a “you know what” was just completely disastrous. 

So I did what anyone would do and asked Em for advice. We went back and forth on the rug (she has the same rug in the Mountain House – which is where I first laid my eyes on it and immediately had to have it) but she agreed (now having two pups of her own she gets my struggle) that a dark-toned rug doesn’t work well with light-toned furry pets and isn’t worth the headache.

While I obsessed over other details, Emily suggested to begin by replacing the rug because it is easier to start with a rug as a jumping-off point and pull colors from it than it is to find a rug that has the colors you want to work with. So like any un-seasoned stylist, I didn’t listen to her. Instead, I focused on the curtains. Ha! Ok, let me provide a little context here: I wholeheartedly value and hang onto every ounce of advice Emily gives when it comes to styling (hello, she didn’t win Design Star for nothing!) but the toile curtains here drove me to the point I couldn’t move past them. I was struck with design paralysis and they were blocking any and all progress. Yes, they are beautiful and I will be using them in a future project but they didn’t feel right in this room. They made the room feel darker which is the opposite of what I wanted.

I knew I wanted a solid color that wouldn’t be too busy but would add a dash of color. Emily’s tip: “try something with a chunkier weave“.

That’s when I laid eyes on this fabric by Calico Corners which coincidentally happened to be the same fabric Emily used for her bedroom curtains in her L.A. house. Gah! No wonder I love her!

See how they instantly brightened up the room? They are a total mood lifter. This time I worked alongside one of the designers at Calico Corners because let’s be honest, when ordering custom curtains, it helps to lean on the pros that know what they’re doing. Also, I don’t always trust my math and I wanted to be SURE these curtains would work.

The Calico Corners designer came out to my house to measure my windows and I am so glad she did. Here’s why:

She measured my windows properly and measured past my windows about 18” – that sounds like a lot but her advice was when your curtains are fully open and pulled back, you don’t want them to cover your windows. This allows as much natural light in as possible.She measured the length so that they hit the floor more at a tailored trouser length than floor-length because I knew a puddle wouldn’t work because of my cats.

For the hardware I chose to go with Calico Corners French rod and they sent their installer out to install them, and again, I’m so happy they did because I learned another great tip:

Lightly spray silicon spray on your curtain rod and always lift up on your wand and then push/pull your curtains vs. dragging them across your rod. The silicon spray is a game-changer and now my curtains glide across that rod so effortlessly.

Obviously, I can go on and on about the curtains but let’s move on…

Next on the living room makeover list was a sofa. Again, not because I didn’t love the one we had but because we needed something cozier. Emily’s tip: “look for something cozy and comfortable and you’ll find that you and your family use the space more.”

I knew I wanted something larger than what we previously had because the window on this wall is really large. I also knew that I wanted something we could all lounge on (we’re sofa loungers over here) but I also didn’t want it to feel so big that it took over the room. When I found this low profile modular sectional by Article I knew it would be a perfect match. This sofa is so versatile and with so many combinations you can basically customize your own. I added the armless chair and ottoman to our configuration. I really love the modern aesthetic of this sofa and the French-welt-style. I also love that the low profile doesn’t block our window, again maximizing the natural light in this space. I feel that going with this modern, low-profile sofa kept the room feeling casual and laid-back (thus more inviting).

Coffee Table | Rug | Sectional | Ottoman | Curtains | Curtain Rod | Side Table | Pillow Cover | Throw Blanket | Lamp

Pendant

I started feeling in a really good space, so much so that I was ready to paint the front door to give it more personality.

Gold Table Lamp | Door Paint Color | Door Hardware

I went with Pitch Black by Farrow & Ball and the hardware is by Emtek in French Antique finish. Painting the door created a contrast that made the neutral color palette pop. There’s no doubt the power of paint is real! 

Hallway Bench

During the design process, I kept texting Emily photos of the progress and she was persistent in asking “but how does it feel?” And you know what? It started feeling really good and I appreciated her keeping me on track. Having someone keep you grounded and focused is a huge benefit. It saved me from making unnecessary purchases and it kept my design eye from wandering all over the place. She also lead me away from going down the path of buying sculptural pieces that are interesting but wouldn’t necessarily feel cozy and comfortable. I kept asking myself WWED (What Would Emily Do). That’s not to say I totally dismissed myself and didn’t ask What Would Lea Do. It just meant that when I was feeling impulsive and had a shopping cart full of things at 2 A.M, ready to hit the “buy now” button, I paused and asked myself these questions. Basically, I’m learning restraint here folks! In a world of instant gratification, I am finally learning (in my 40s) how to be a responsible adult.

Leaning Ladder | Blanket | Media Cabinet | Sconce | Chair | Table Lamp | Coffee Table | Rug

The next step was to turn my attention to this wall that previously had bookcases that no longer served their purpose in this room. Here’s why:

With the new pieces in the living room the bookcases felt off and they weren’t balancing well with the visual weight of the new sofa.They began to somehow make my design eye feel chaotic and I wanted to calm this room down.I wanted movement on this wall.

This wasn’t an easy decision. I loved those bookcases but somehow they didn’t feel right and so I asked Emily for her opinion. I want to preface this with Emily never puts down my design ideas or tells me they look off or bad (although sometimes, I wish she did lol). Instead, she coached me into seeing something differently by asking me what I thought about adding “contrast” to this space to “warm it up from the white walls with a white sofa.” Instead of telling me, “Hey girl, that bookcase really looks busy and is throwing your entire room off, you should do this” – she says things like, “This is looking so good! How does it feel? I find I use a room a lot more when it’s super inviting”. 

Also, I think I recall her giving me advice about adding contrast and warm wood tones. This helped me see through the bookcase wall dilemma and replace them with this warm wood cabinet by Article. 

Admittedly here’s one of my panic moments – I thought this chair blended too much into the cabinet.

Chair | Side Table (similar)

I immediately texted Emily (by now she’s used to my frequent freak-out moments) and she assured me to wait before purchasing a new chair and see how the room feels once there’s a rug in place. As you can see by this image, the rug made all of the difference and provided the much-needed contrast. I’ll talk more about it in a minute.

It probably won’t surprise you that I drew a lot of inspiration from Emily when creating this wall. Originally, I wasn’t sure if my family wanted a TV in here but surprisingly they voted to opt-out (we do have a TV room in the basement). This gave me a chance to add more of my personality into the space. I created this small gallery wall with my favorite vintage art that I’d been hoarding and also a new favorite vintage piece from England (sourced by a favorite local shop, J. Altier) that gives some architectural interest and texture to this wall. To top it off, I added this wall sconce by Hudson Valley Lighting. 

Side Table

Working in true Lea fashion, I was finally ready to source the rug. Rug sourcing is not my strong suit because the amount of options out there overwhelms me and rugs in this house need to check all of these boxes:

Wool or wool-blend (AKA easy to clean and resistant to stains)Cozy, shaggy, or high-pile for sitting or laying comfortably on the floorHides dog furGives some pattern to the room without overwhelming the roomNot so precious (remember my antique Sultanabad rug?) that I become crazed about the cats even looking at it.

Sourcing and sourcing took me weeks until I finally found this rug by Dash & Albert and I went with a 9×12 for this sized space. What really drew me to this rug was the geometric pattern and that it was neutral but added pattern and color to this space without taking away from the curtains.

Then I noticed this rug has been used in many EHD projects (The Portland Living Room and Jess’ Living Room) and that’s when it just hit me that we’re true soul sisters (hello, Virgo’s unite!) and even my subconscious self without thinking selects yet another EHD favorite rug.

Hopefully, this post wasn’t too long-winded and if you are someone who struggles with an open floor plan who also wants to create a family-friendly-beautiful space I hope this leaves you feeling inspired. Remember, don’t feel bad or discouraged if you are hitting a design wall. We all struggle with a “problem” space or room and if there’s one takeaway from this, keep asking yourself the famous Emily question “how does it make you feel?”. After all, we all want a home that makes us feel good and happy.

And because “before and afters” are the best, here you go!

Until next time! xo, Lea.

*Design by Lea Johnson of Creekwood Hill
**Photography by Sage E Imagery

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My Strategy To Bring Color, Pattern, And Personality Into The Farmhouse Bathrooms And Kitchen (Without It Feeling Dated In 15 Years)

I know I’m not alone here. So many of us want our homes to be interesting, colorful, and, full of personality. But when the doors are shut and we’ve stopped scrolling through Instagram we are actually drawn to living/cooking/bathing in rooms that are more neutral, relaxing, and just easy both visually and practically. I’m not talking furniture/art, I’m talking hard, permanent finishes that are the hard, permanent decisions. I want to stay at a Kelly Wearstler hotel where I have no idea what I’m going to see at every corner, but “exciting” isn’t the adjective I use for my main bathroom. Beautiful, interesting, relaxing, bright, airy, full of intentional detail – those are the words I want to use.

Furthermore, last week after a friend professed her love of bold colors in her home, I thought to myself with a sigh, “Ah yes… I once did, too“. This friend was 29 which made me wonder, is this an age thing? Around 7 years ago my tolerance for bold color and lots of pattern in my home started decreasing. Why? Originally I placed the blame on children, naturally, with a backup suspect of “living in a chaotic-to-me city”. But after further investigation, I believe the shift started happening when I started having to make permanent non-styling renovation decisions that involved color and pattern. The year I had Charlie was the year that we remodeled our first home. Perhaps it’s not age, it’s the grownup necessity to make timeless choices that are meant to be PERMANENT. That’s the real horror word in renovation… P.E.R.M.A.N.E.N.T.

left photo: photo by camilla isaksson, via skonahem | right photo: design by fawn interiors, via remodelista

You’ve seen my style and color evolution up to this point – I never predicted I would love living in so much. But what is next? Will I stay this neutral at the farm? Am I ready for more color and pattern? The kids are now 5 and 7 – they produce so much less mess, are so much easier to take care of, I’m so much less exhausted, and living outside of the city is just innately less chaotic. All those culprits are gone. Perhaps, for this renovation, I’m finally starting to feel experienced in this process, like I really know what I’m doing and I’m ready and willing to take some risks in more calculated ways for long-term color/pattern success.

**This is just the strategy for ME, if you are a maximalist and love an explosion of color, PLEASE embrace that and know that I will be double-tapping your photos for life because I LOVE how bold you can be with patterns and colors. You do you, and I’ll do this.

I’ll Put Bold Patterns And Colors On The Floor – Not In Eye-Linephoto left: design by alessandro agrati, photo by elena rosignoli, via vogue italia | photo right: design by pamela moell stiltje via bobby berkphoto left: design by courtney bishop design, photo by katie charlotte | photo right: design by john b. murray, photo by durston saylor

It’s simple science, ask any optometrist. Your eyeballs don’t “SEE” the floor as much as you do a wall that is in your exact eye-line. Therefore you’ll tire of a pattern on the floor much less. I came up with this theory and I’m the only one to blame if I’m wrong about this. But I have proof. The tile on our patio in LA is in that high contrast blue and white and is rather busy (if not totally classic), but I’ve never gotten sick of it, EVER. In fact, I myself pinning it over and over again for the farm. You only see it when you turn the corner to go outside and it’s a burst of welcoming joy. You see it when you go to sit down in the living room, and you just get a hint of it and again, the joy. I don’t know why this was so genius to me, and maybe this is short-lived advice, but when I’m considering patterned tile in our house I’m leaning towards going more colorful on the floor with less happening on the walls.

design by the spaceologists | photo by paul massey | via living etc

That is not to say that I won’t put colored tile or patterned wallpaper anywhere, I LOVE our wallpaper in our old main bathroom because it’s so soothing and neutral (and hand-painted, light and special – I love Farrow & Ball so much), I’m just going to leave the more bold moments on the floor.

Use “Safe” (Classic) Tile Applied In Unexpected Waysdesign by michelle smith | via coco kelly

While I wouldn’t do floor-to-ceiling penny tile, I love the idea of taking an element you’ve seen a million times and doing a more unexpected version of it.

design by leanne ford | via the albion bath company

This is a GREAT example of that – that penny on the ceiling is ridiculously good. It’s a tile setter’s total nightmare, but how beautiful is that bathroom???

photo left: design by jam architecture, photo by gieves anderson | photo right: design by allison tick, via washington post

We are also considering doing a custom hex or penny tile mosaic on the floor (or wall?) and while it might be simpler than these ones about, I love a border or a “rug” around a field tile.

design by gamble + design | photo by echo and earl

That is a GENIUS example of how to take a simple herringbone mosaic tile and do something interesting with it. I wish I had thought of it myself. But I think you get the point – how can you be creative with classic materials???? This is a great challenge.

Staggering Different Sizes Of The Same Classic Tileimage sources unknown

I also love the idea of taking a classic subway tile like these above and installing them in different lengths. You almost barely notice it at first and then you look harder and can see what they’ve done. I’m not sure if it’s random, or likely 3-4 varied lengths. But we agree that this is a great way to add interest and personality in a quiet way.

Floor To Ceiling And Wall To Wall Of ONE Tileimage source | via food 52

It’s becoming an increasing trend that we are pretty darn into, but can be a budget buster, too. Granted these tiles are STUNNING, but even a simple subway tile on all the walls would look so pretty (if not clinical). I know that this isn’t a ton of color, but again it’s about impact and personality in a “hard to feel dated” way.

image via cle tile

The sheer volume of tile on that bathroom above adds so much impact. Floor to ceiling, and wall to wall – if we can afford it.

I’ll Stay Within My “Color Comfort Zone”design and photo by lina ostling

I for one know what tones I’m extremely comfortable in, and since this is my home (especially for the main spaces) I will not be intentionally pushing myself into a discomfort zone just to try out a new color or prove that I can use an orange tile. Now, that being said, if Arciform can help me bring in some colors outside my comfort zone I’m listening. I’m not totally shut off, but I can’t imagine that I’ll be opting for a hot pink penny tile – while nothing is WRONG with it. Not sure you know this, but I like blue. It makes me happy. I passed that love down to both kids (mostly through flashcards, hypnotism, associative techniques, etc). The kid’s rooms will be different as I want to give them a lot of autonomy over it (which will be hard as a designer but so fun as a mom).

Here are some more photos to really drive my love of blues, greens, and soft whites home:)

design by gmtw architects and kinnersley kent design | photo by paul massey | via living etcphoto left: design by jam architecture | photo right: design by tyler karu, photo by erin littleimage sourcephoto left: design by studio via, photo by olivia pierce | photo right: design by kvänum kök ab

All those colors make me feel so soothed, soft and happy. I can’t wait to show you where they are going to go…

So that’s where my head is at currently as I’m staring at one million tiles, paint chips, and pinning patterns all day every day. I’m currently putting together all the room by room mood boards (which is SO FUN) and we are this close to finalizing the floor plan to show you (hopefully coming soon).

Opening Image Credits: Design by The Spaceologists | Photo by Paul Massey | via Living Etc

The post My Strategy To Bring Color, Pattern, And Personality Into The Farmhouse Bathrooms And Kitchen (Without It Feeling Dated In 15 Years) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

How Does E-Design Even Work?? Velinda Shows Off Three Client Reveals She Never Saw In-Person

Velinda back (so soon) because I couldn’t leave you wallowing in grief for too long. THIS IS A DESIGN blog. And despite it all, we’ve been designing! But not in a way we’re used to… well not EXACTLY. 

Before we lose those of you who read one paragraph and skip to the photos (yes, I see you), I want to give a big accolade to my E-Team, led by fellow EHD alumn, Grace De Asis. And we owe a GIANT thank you to our impressive, first E-clients who not only executed all of these designs themselves, but also filled in as photo-stylist AND photographer. There wasn’t a pro on-site… like, ever. We never made a site visit. Still, these ‘amateurs’ have made us so happily-impressed and today, they’re boldly sharing their reveals. We’ve met them via Zoom. They’ve uploaded questionnaires, ‘Pinned’ inspiration, communicated measurements, and hopped along for the ride as we discovered this whole E-Design thing. We’re forever grateful.

So about this unique (errr… crazy?) way of working. Covid has had us all adapting and we feel incredibly fortunate to be able to work from the safety of home. Still, I opted to start a business in January of 2020… Cool. As a ‘2020’ startup/first-time business venture, there’s nothing like adapting a process that doesn’t even exist yet to new, global pandemic restrictions. Goodbye, familiar design process.

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: portland project: the entry & staircase reveal

But wait! As I started to break down a lot of our familiar, Emily-led processes, I realized the EHD design team was actually QUITE trained in working from afar. Afterall, for we spent a ton of time drawing up concepts for a project that was located in…. well, you guess. ; we could check in more frequently, but it was still a couple of hours away, so a lot of those details were dreamed up remotely. When we did Target shoots, we worked with unreleased inventory that we couldn’t see, touch, or feel until the product was on-site, yet we successfully formed designs based on color, imagery, and dimensions. And for flash makeovers, in order to pull off the ‘surprise’, we could only sneak in to grab measurements ONCE. The rest of the design took place from afar.

So, while I don’t believe designers should think in terms of 2D and while so much can be said for ‘feeling’ a space IRL… Our training through Emily, serendipitously, prepared us to design our way through a pandemic. And magically, has led us to the coolest, down-to-earth clients all around the world. (Our first E-client was located in the Netherlands!) 

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: velinda’s first freelance client reveal: molding the ‘builder-grade budget’ + where they saved & splurged

This is a reveal post, so I want to skip to the fun part! But so you aren’t totally lost on how we get to these end results, the basics of our process is set up to mimic our process of working with ‘Full Service’ clients; the cliff notes of which are:

Intake: Questionnaire, Photos/Measurements, Client Inspiration ImageryDesign Prep: Concepts & Moodboards, Internal Inspiration imagery, 3D Modeling/DrawingPresentations: Zoom-based check-ins on Concepts & Floor Plan OptionsSourcing: The fun part. We shop. Clients hold the power to ‘approve’Final Design: We reign it all into a cohesive design and pull together renderings to assure a successful, client-led, design-execution. We also throw in tips, important dimensions, design alternatives, etc.

And if you’re one to need more than the cliff notes, you can find out all of the below here:

Budget expectationsHow to know if E-Design is right for youWhat E-Design is & isn’tHow we’ve made it ‘digestible’ (our Menu)

And now, onto the fun!

Reveal One: A Cozy, Eclectic Family Nest with British Pub Vibes

First up, our client Marian in Portland… who may just be my soulmate. Marian is a writer who describes herself as ‘Villainelle’ (Killing Eve) if she lived in the holiday cottage from ‘The Holiday’. She dances with her three-year-old daughter around and ON furniture and is married to a man I approve of (though have never even ‘Zoom’-met) because he bestowed an ‘It’ll pass’ (Fleabag) pin upon her in response to her blossoming love.

When asked how she wanted her finished space to feel: “Cozy AF. I have never been more excited for a gas fireplace in my life. Airy and uncluttered, but still eclectic and representative of us as a family – well-traveled, well-read, but unfussy. I’m obsessed with old libraries, cozy cafes, cabins, and English pubs”. Now, even she would admit her newly-purchased home didn’t reflect an ounce of that at all:

So, we started with her where we start with all spaces; honing in on a concept. Based on her intake questionnaire, photos of the room and ‘Pinspirations’, we took off in a direction, which looked something like this:

Okay, that’s just one page of multiple from our ‘Mood Board Presentation’, which is step one. But let’s skip straight to a page from our final presentation (again, for the sake of getting to the fun… life is short, folks). Skipping the floor planning, sourcing, and final design brainstorming phases, I present to you the ‘final design’ in a rendered concept:

We ended up changing our mind on the tile concept in the end, but you get the idea. And so did Marian! Her beautiful execution:

Are we excited to see this space in-person when the world opens up and we can travel to Portland again? 1000%. Is it our FAVORITE in her house now? Nope. Project 2, which Marian brought our way just after this living room project wrapped, is where we plan to spend all of our time when we ‘share a pint’ eventually. Welcome to Marian’s dining room transformation!

She described the existing space as having a ‘secondhand table and chairs, that were ugly and uncomfortable and a light fixture that came with the house and MUST GO.” Behind her bifold doors were laundry machines and she not only needed room to access those within her limited space, but also a better surface for piles of clothing to land to be folded. A reader who loves cozying up with a coffee, she expressed loving the idea of a built-in banquette nook… though she wasn’t sure if it could work in her space. We loved the idea too! Where we were inspired:

We were also inspired by the adjacent living room, which was already complete. Whatever we did on this second project needed to not only ‘speak’ to the world of the house that we were creating, but it needed to work within the same visual eye line…. which meant considering competing scales and complementary/cohesive color palettes. We won’t cheat this time. Let’s take a look at the ‘less fun’ phase of the floor plan (unless you’re a designer who loves the ‘puzzle’ of said planning. Shout out to you dimension-geeks out there! You’re going to love this)…

And since it was determined the desired banquette not only checked her box, but proved to be a perfect way to keep the necessary clearance for her laundry ‘room’ doors, we got to do a custom build!

The final design concept turned out something like, well, exactly like this:

And what follows is another successful execution from our Portland friend. We were seriously impressed. This execution involved finding/hiring a carpenter and upholster for the banquette… installing the wallpaper and DIY-ing the shelf build. Not to mention the beautiful knot they made to ‘swag’ that pendant to make their existing J Box work, as proposed. The rug is still stuck in the land of Covid-delays, but we don’t hold that against our ‘Villainelle’ at all. Major, major kudos!

I’m not kidding when I say I plan to sit in this corner one day and enjoy their amazing picture window. In the meantime, we’re so happy knowing this is where Marian & fam now enjoy their morning meditations, piping-hot cups of tea with a biscotti, long conversations about literature, and every other romantic, life-scenario. We’re certain, despite having a 3-year-old, no cheerios or tantrums are ever thrown in a room like this. But if those things WERE taking place (and of course, they’re not) no heads would be split thanks to rounded corners and no stains would be made thanks to cleanable upholstery. Cheers to your successful project, Portland friends! We’ll see you when the world opens back up.

Let’s see those before and afters:

Reveal Two: Modern, Versatile Outdoor Entertaining Space with an Ode to Wes Anderson

Next up, we have not only one of the most-fun design aesthetics, but also one of the better E-design challenges so far. Only neighborhoods away, Allison found us at the peak of Covid, when we weren’t venturing out to measure. One of our earliest clients, Allison was the client that had me first realizing our E-Design clients were SO fun to work with. A family who crafts outdoors, entertains a lot (in theory… we all know why), and loves Wes Anderson films, they were ready to rip out their old fence/non-working fireplace and put in a kitchen & kid space.

She had me at Wes Anderson. 

The Before… Not great-looking, but great job communicating measurements!

I have to prelude this reveal with the fact I desperately want to show you the Wes Anderson-inspired kids tent that is taking shape behind their kitchen currently, but alas, a major renovation like this takes time and I am NOTHING but impressed with their execution so far. Here’s our concept:

As we explored the models (thanks to the very careful measurements our lovely client provided), we honed in on what ‘fit’ the space and how to make use of multiple levels given the addition of the decking:

When we draw, we’re using SketchUp, both for floor planning and renders. For the sake of sparing time (E-Designing is about efficiency!), we’ll often incorporate photoshop as well to avoid time spent modeling out one-off pieces of furniture. So, we aim to get the point across as effectively as possible without being ‘picture perfect’. And clearly, the point came across just fine! Let’s compare:

And here’s the reveal!

I can’t tell you how fun it was to hand off this design, not hear from our client after for a few months and then get to witness the successful path they’re on! I MAY have teared up. When they reached out again, they included some shots of their kids enjoying the new ‘kid’s space’ which is behind this lovely new outdoor kitchen. The bones of said space are there, but it wasn’t quite pulled together in time for this post, so instead, you get a hint and a chance to imagine:

Colorful, “Moonlight Kingdom” vibes along with lots of creative play are in store, we trust!

Reveal Three: Elevated, Worldly Desert meets Coastal

Wrapping us up for today, we aren’t shy about our absolute love for Ruth (it’s not a secret she’s just our favorite… and not just because she’s a healthcare working-hero!). We’re wrapping our third project together this week (a sneak peek of that one below!). With her, our job is an easy joy. She’s SO capable and brings so much fun-flare. Having worked with a designer previously (and thanks to her natural great taste), she came in with a project that was already pretty close to finished, making her a great ‘Entree’ client (check out our menu on our site). Overall, what she needed for her first two spaces was styling and a couple of key pieces.

She was relatively happy with her room design, but felt she was missing a touch of ‘her’ (bright, sophisticated, and well-traveled). Her launching point was not. bad. at. all:

And by now, you know where we start! Honing in on some ‘Ruth vibes’, we came up with this starting point:

And once again, our impressive client made it possible to model a room we never visited thanks to her careful use of a measuring tape. Here we explored the best scale and placement of art, considering the height of her existing headboard and ceiling:

Which ultimately looked something like, okay… exactly like this, in concept:

Which Ruth translated so beautifully into this, in reality:

We were so happy when she quickly returned with more remote puzzles to solve! Once again proving to have some great major pieces to start with, Ruth wanted more help filling in the details for her living/dining space.

Once we’ve worked with a client, it’s quite easy to pull together the color palette, inspiration photos, key elements, design direction, and design concepts that make up our Mood Board presentation since we already know the ‘world’ of our client’s home. Which for Ruth’s living space looked something like this (again, not boring you with EVERY page of that presentation):

Fast-forwarding again, we ultimately landed here:

One thing that makes Ruth SO successful at pulling off our design concepts (as proven below) is the fact she acts FAST. A risk we run when designing is that items can quickly go out of stock (especially during a pandemic, apparently?). When we hand Ruth a design, she is ON IT. We may just have to hire her to do the shopping for all future clients. Ruth… is healthcare really that important these days? Just consider it.

Now let’s visit her dining space before:

When we hand off our ‘To Go Box’ (final design), we make sure each sourced item is easy to shop, which means visuals and source-able tear sheets.

But of course, most importantly, we want to communicate exactly HOW to execute the vision. One of the slightly more time-consuming parts of this digital process is in the styling. Unlike ‘playing’ in-person where we can bring in a bunch of props and mix and match until it ‘works’, we have to draw/measure each item so we know how to place it. As a result, we are working both visually (thanks to photoshop/Google Slide and technically (thanks to SketchUP renderings).

Which, unsurprisingly, Ruth did, earning an ‘A+ Gold Star’:

She already had several great styling pieces going in, so we were really just filling in around the edges and helping her blend pattern, color and scale:

Ruth, the following photo may just put Sara Tramp and Veronica Crawford out of jobs. What CAN’T you do? #RuthPhotographyandMedicine

As promised, here’s a sneak peek at our 3rd project with Ruth, which we just wrapped. It’s a multifunctional guest/office suite with all her vibrant, effortlessly cool vibes and a custom build!!! (you may have picked up on the fact we love doing these given all the exclamations) The challenge here was to hide an existing murphy-bed-in-a-box. My team is UP FOR A CHALLENGE. Grace, Julie, Marlene, Courtney, and Brittany (and sometimes Bowser)…. thank you for your brilliance!

The most observant of you might notice we are using the rug that had previously existed in her living room. One of the fun challenges of the E-Design puzzle is incorporating client’s favorite pieces along with as many existing elements as possible. We just need photos and measurements to consider items on-site in the design. Of course, we’re always upfront if something just doesn’t work… but as seen here, it can always work elsewhere!

Can we all comment on how impressive our clients are with their executions!? We’ve been so blown away. We’ve also been so, SO grateful for so much trust and support through our first (almost) full year of E-Design. Is this way of working a fit for everyone? NOPE. Of our 40-ish 2020 projects, we discovered 3 clients that didn’t seem to find what they needed from this remote service. And that’s okay. There’s some soul-searching involved…. you have to ask yourself some deep questions such as, ‘Do I trust myself with a tape measure?’… ‘Do I understand the process of uploading to a Google Drive?’…. ‘Do I know what a Zoom call is?’ (Who doesn’t at this point… and sorry if ‘Zoom’ is a trigger word. SAME. #2020). To help guide people through these ‘most important questions in life’, we’ve created a guide to the soul-search here.

If you want to bring us a ‘puzzle’ to solve and hope to work with us, we want to work with you too (unless you’re a jerk). We are a small team, so we have to limit our project load each month, but we keep a waitlist of anyone interested (you can join that list on our site) and we re-open project sign-ups each month, with start dates the following month (ie. we opened our project sign up in February for projects we plan to start in March). You can be anywhere… You just have to be awesome… because somehow so far, that’s been our entire clientele! And thanks to them, our opportunity to work from home during a global pandemic, and our amazingly-collaborative team (of coworkers-turned friends-turned coworkers again) it’s all gratitude, gratitude, GRATITUDE over here. Thank you for the love this first year. And thank you to those who read beyond the first paragraph. I see you

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: Velinda’s First Freelance Client Reveal: Molding The ‘Builder-Grade Budget’ + Where They Saved & Splurged

The post How Does E-Design Even Work?? Velinda Shows Off Three Client Reveals She Never Saw In-Person appeared first on Emily Henderson.

The Link Up: The Jacket Emily’s Been Wearing For 3 Years Straight, The Perfect Hair Clip, And The Side Table We ALL Want

Hi everyone and once again, happy Sunday! After a pretty action-packed design week on the blog, we are ready to rest up to prep for another one… hope you’re ready:) So to do that, I think all of us on the team are going to be following in Cailtin’s self-care footsteps, take “the perfect shower” and let you enjoy this link up.

To be honest we may have mentioned this truly mesmerizing house tour before but now it’s getting full-on top billing (as it should)! There isn’t one thing we don’t love about this home but there is one feature that is going to be a hot topic this week;)

From Emily: Three years. THREE YEARS of wearing the same running/hiking/biking jacket year-round. The other day Caitlin pitched a post called ‘What Clothes Make Me Feel Really Good Right Now’ and while I didn’t verbalize it on the call I was internally thinking ‘uh, my running jacket?’ You’ve seen me wear it FOR YEARS and the reason it’s more superior than others is A. it’s warm (puffy vest) but still really flattering (fitted but not tight arms), B. it has zippered pockets, and C. since it’s only puffy on the front I can layer it under all my coats without adding armpit bulk (you know what I mean). I have a couple other summer jackets but to wear the same piece of clothing for three years, 3-4 times a week, and have it still be in great condition is pretty remarkable. So while I’ve linked it up a lot over the years, I wanted to give it more love right now. And yes it’s expensive for a running jacket, but if you are into sustainable purchases then know that this one lasts and gets true use.

Also from Emily: Oh shit. A victorian skirted wicker table at a pretty affordable price compared to all the others on the market. Nate and Jeremiah did it!!

From Caitlin: I just figured out how to send all my friends a $30 coupon to Charlotte Stone Shoes and since y’all are my friends…I had to share it here, too!!! (Click that link and a code should pop up.) I know this is kind of weird or lame to say, but I have a ton of pairs of shoes from this brand and they just make me feel kind of like, POWERFUL. I started my collection with this pair of platform boots, picked up a ton of deeply-discounted, super awesome pieces in a recent sample same including these sandals (like an adult version of the plastic Birks I’ve worn into the ground over the past couple of years – I’m growing up!), but I’m most excited about my recent purchase of these clogs, which are SUPER DUPES for the clogs everyone is ALWAYS asking Emily about. Just truly obsessed with this small business and I just want everyone to feel as good in their shoes as I do in these! (PS. The customer service was SO NICE when I DM’d them on IG and pleaded to know when these would be back in stock in my size. If anyone wants to send me a half birthday gift – 4/14 – those are #1 on my list.)

From Jess: Guess who just launched a sustainable personal care line at Target??? Drumroll please… Jada Pinkett Smith! It’s a gender-neutral line called Hey Humans that is both super affordable and 99% plastic-free. To top it off it was inspired by her kids which makes it that much more meaningful. I have my eyes on the Coconut Mint body wash and the Cedarwood Sage deodorant

Also from Jess: The samples got me again! In my last round of skincare purchases, I used some of my Sephora points to get a sample of Dr. Dennis Gross’ Alpha Beta® Extra Strength Daily Peel Pads due to all the recs in the skincare post comment section. Well, you all were RIGHT. Holy crap they are amazing and I only had three packets. My skin was actually glowing and stupid soft after. I opted for the “regular strength” ones instead of the “extra strength” since they burned a bit while using but honestly, they both cause some amount small of burning. Now they do also have ones for sensitive skin so maybe I’ll try those next. However, while I am sure everyone will simultaneously scream “NO!” at me, if it requires a little bit of discomfort for the results I got, so be it. I can’t wait to use them over a longer period of time.

From Mallory: I did it. I finally bought a subscription to NYT Cooking and oh boy, oh boy do I LOVE IT. I had no idea what I was signing up for (and for $14 a month I hoped it was good considering that’s more than a Netflix or Spotify account which are obviously essential services), so I truly went in blind. If you’re like me and have no clue what it is or why it exists, it’s basically a platform where you can find awesome recipes along with photos and sometimes videos. You also get an email sent to you weekly (sometimes twice a week) with awesome recipes you can make and you can also save recipes to your recipe box so when you have no idea what to make you can use it as your little toolbox. The best thing I’ve found about it is that you can search for items you want to cook with. Let me give an example…the other day I realized I had a bunch of ground chicken in my fridge (so random) and I had no clue what to make with it. I went to NY Times Cooking, typed in ground chicken, got a bunch of awesome recipes, and ended up making one it suggested: HONEY CHIPOTLE TACOS. I had all of the ingredients just sitting in my house but I never could’ve come up with that on my own. If you cook a lot, this is a great resource!!

Also From Mallory: These hair clips are back and are my new favorite everyday WFH accessory. I bought this one, this one, and this one. No shame in my lazy hair styling game.

From Ryann: I never really understood the big deal with Airpods. Two expensive loose headphones that I am supposed to keep track of??? No thank you. That is, of course, until I was given them as a gift (thanks to my angel future MIL) and immediately I understood. If you have them you know what I mean, but still, having to keep track of them AND the charging case is a huge ask for someone like me. I knew I would need to save me from myself so I bought this case that I attach to my car keys. I have the cow print one and it’s so cute and puts me at ease knowing I won’t lose them (until I misplace my keys of course!!).

Ok, well that’s a wrap for us. Have a wonderful Sunday and see you all tomorrow. xx

Opening Image Credits: Design by Byrdesign | Photo by Laure Joliet | via Remodelista

The post The Link Up: The Jacket Emily’s Been Wearing For 3 Years Straight, The Perfect Hair Clip, And The Side Table We ALL Want appeared first on Emily Henderson.

Have You Heard of “The Special Shower”?? Your Happiest Skin And A Confidence Boost Guaranteed

I have finally taken a shower SO SUBLIME that it has made all other showers pale in comparison. The shower that makes me feel like a million bucks. The shower that makes me look like a glassy, freshly-glazed Krispy Kreme doughnut. The shower that makes me want to curl up underneath clean sheets and rub my ultra-soft shins together for eternity like some kind of cursed cricket. If you saw me out and about after this shower, you’d say, “WOAH, is that a sleek, smooth land dolphin in front of me? Or wait…no…just a really clean woman?” And guys, it’s okay – it’s just me, Caitlin, a really clean woman! 

Here’s the deal: I know that as a fellow adult person, you’ve probably showered at least a couple of times in your life. And hey, after decades of experience, you’re probably pretty good at it, too! But I’m not here to talk about our standard bleary-eyed, auto-piloted, in-and-out morning rinse or the classic oh god, just let me get this gunk off so I can go to sleep nighttime soak. This one is BETTER. 

After almost 30 years of constant experimentation (with, uh, some questionable breaks between like, March and June of last year), I’ve nailed the formula and order that just works. I take this shower – hereby deemed the “special shower” – once a week, and it’s the closest thing to a reset button that I can create in my own life. I emerge feeling SO CALM on the inside and with skin that is (a.) glowing, quenched, and happy and (b.) fortified to stand another week of me bumping into things. And before I lose you, YES, there are before & afters below to prove my claims. I’m serious about this.

I’m going to jump right in and I’ll share the tools and products that have worked for me, but if you have any favorite shower essentials, please drop a name or link in the comments. Last week, you helped me find an everyday moisturizer (praise be) so I know y’all are a wealth of information. I’m just one gal with dry skin (part lizard over here), so let’s share our favorites so EVERYONE can find the perfect products for them. SPECIAL SHOWERS FOR ALL!!!

photo by tessa neustadt | from: modern old-world master bathroomTiming Is Everything

This baby has to happen in the afternoon. (I start mine around 3 or 4 PM on Saturday.) Two reasons:

You’ll be able to spend the rest of the evening luxuriating and appreciating the fruits of your labor. Remember how it feels to go on a vacation, get a little sunburnt in the morning, take a super relaxing midday nap, and then hop in the shower right before dinner? That’s the energy we’re channeling here. You’re setting the tone for the rest of the night – even simple things like eating dinner or watching Netflix or journaling on the couch (read: the only things I do) will feel extra special.GOLDEN HOUR. You, a person who is now shining like a stone plucked straight out of a river, are going to leave the bathroom and step into the most beautiful light ever. Nobody will be able to tell you ANYTHING. (I hope this is the post that spawns a million thirst traps.)Make it Special

There are really 3 things you’ll need to set the scene – a beverage, lighting, and some music. I know that line sounds like it came straight out of a post called “Ah, Someone I Have a Crush on Is Coming to My House for the First Time, What Do I Need?!” but stick with me, okay?

A Drink: Shower beers aren’t for me and I don’t really have the space (or coordination) to risk bringing in a glass of wine (or barware of any kind, TBH), so I default to kombucha. Gingerade is my everyday flavor; Mango is my special Saturday flavor. Bring in whatever you want, but having a beverage in the shower is SO FUN, even if you only take a few sips. Music: HUGE POINT. SO IMPORTANT. It’s not fun to stand in the bathroom for this long without a playlist. (This is the one I’ve been using lately – it’s my 2020 favorites; please don’t judge me.) I usually default to playing it straight my phone on full volume but if I’m listening to something SUPER mellow and quiet, I’ll break out an old Beats Pill I got when I worked there so I can actually hear once I’m inside the shower. Use whatever you have! Lighting: Just change it up from your daily shower lighting. I like keeping the lights off and using this $10 candle, but it’s dealer’s choice here. Maybe you can go wild and use your canned lights instead of your vanity lights. GIVE IT A WHIRL! photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: portland reveal: creating the dreamiest of master bathroomsBreak out the Dry Brush

Yeah, buddy, we’re putting in WORK before we even turn the shower on. Dry brushing was new to me and I only started because I wanted to slough off some winter skin manually, but it turns out that it’s SUPER good for you – dry brushing actually helps drain your lymphatic system and it increases circulation. (In fairness, I, a lover of woo-woo nonsense, had written this off as some wellness-y woo-woo nonsense until I googled it and found doctors confirming that yes, this is actually good for you BEYOND exfoliating. WIN/WIN.) I’m sure there are fancier brushes, but this one is $7, has a loop for your hand, and it works fine.

I do my dry brushing facing a window and I really like it because I can see the skin cells floating off of me while I scrub. It’s simultaneously very gross and very satisfying. (Also, it’s nice motivation to deep clean my bathroom more frequently.)

Exfoliate Dry (& Apply Other Specialty Masks)

This is where our actual routines may diverge a bit, but the ~general spirit~ will remain the same. If you have any specialty masks or cleansing products, break them out now! You can probably turn on the shower and let it start to heat up at this point.

But for me, I love starting with this cleansing balm – it simultaneously gets rid of dirt/grime/makeup/buildup while moisturizing. (I also love NOT washing my face in the sink, so being able to rinse this off in the shower is a real treat.)

Second, I really like this underarm mask. It’s not essential for everyone, but it’s $16 and really makes a huge difference – whatever’s in this definitely helps made my pits less stinky overall. You also really only need it once a week, so it lasts forever.

But third, AHHH. Let me sing the praises of this exfoliator. I’ve never found one I loved or that really worked for me – they oftentimes feel a little too oily or not gritty enough to get the job done. But this one, from Skinfix, is the perfect texture AND it’s applied pre-shower to dry skin. GUYS, I LOVE THIS PRODUCT. If you can splurge on a new exfoliator (it’s $30), I’d recommend this one in a heartbeat!!! But if not – or if you’ve already found a product you love – try applying your exfoliator of choice while you’re still dry. Newborn baby skin is en route!

Hop In & Shave (Round 1)

FOLKS, WE HAVE ENTERED THE SHOWER. We all have our own routines and preferences here, so skip ahead if shaving isn’t your thing! That said, the next step here is to rinse off – you’ll already be amazed at how baby-soft you feel after just dry brushing and exfoliating – before going to work on your legs. You can save any other bits for later (we’ll come back to them).

Pre-quarantine, I was a pretty vocal advocate for waxing (it’s so much easier for me because I am lazy), but I’ve grown to enjoy the process of shaving as I’ve perfected THE SPECIAL SHOWER process. These three razors were recommended to me by my own waxer and they all serve different functions: this super tiny one is great for intimate areas (ew, sorry for using that phrase, but I’ve tested and can confirm), this one is a great store brand product that does double-duty, and this metal one is a real top of the line investment piece that you’ll keep forever. (I don’t normally use shaving cream though, so if you have a good one to recommend for folks who need it, please drop it in the comments!)

Massage in Your Shampoo

Alright – you’re brushed, masked, exfoliated, and (partially) shaved. Next up: shampoo. You know your hair better than I do, so use whatever you have. My one ~special shower tweak~: add a massaging scalp brush.

I asked for one of these for Christmas via a Link Up (what good is the website if not for soliciting presents from your family???) and my mom delivered. Y’all, I love this thing, and I’ve been using it long enough to tell you that it’s actually stimulating baby hair growth. That’s not why I got it, though – it’s awesome at lifting your hair at the root and ACTUALLY getting your scalp clean. This thing’s a 10/10 and it’s the best $15 I have ever asked someone to spend on me.

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: the final mountain house reveal (for now): all the details of my master bathroomApply Your Conditioner (Or A Mask!)

Ah, yes, the familiar order of shampoo and conditioner. Again, you know your hair, so use whatever conditioner or treatment makes the most sense for your hair.

But speaking of treatments, this is a great time to apply them – you’ll be in here for a while longer, so it’ll actually have time to work. (“Uh??? How??? Do I get in the shower and then get out???” – me, any time a hair mask says “apply to damp hair.” But NOW is the right time, pals! Your hair is damp and you have at least 10 minutes! Get wild!)

According to my hairstylist, my hair is pretty thin but very dense (tiny hair, lotta follicles – “like constantly walking through a spiderweb,” if you want a description from a boy I used to date), and this is a great treatment that adds moisture without weighing it down.

Serious Scrub-a-Dub-Dub Action

STOP READING. IF THERE IS ONE THING I CAN EVER CONVINCE YOU TO BUY, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE LET IT BE A SCRUB CLOTH. Your loofah is garbage and it needs to go. This is WAY more effective, soap actually rinses out of it (no more standing around squeezing and rinsing, waiting for the water pouring down from loofah to run clean – girl, it never will), it dries super fast, and it’s also great for folks with mobility issues.

A scrub towel is rougher – it’s not necessarily like being kissed by kittens, like, you’ll feel it working – but it’s a game-changer. I could write another 1,000 words on how my scrub cloth changed my life (turned my skin a piece of silk) and how I use my scrub towel (folded up at first, then like a cartoon of someone scrubbing themselves after it’s fully lathered) or how much soap my scrub cloth has saved me (A LOT), but I’ll let the reviews do the talking. PLEASE GET A SCRUB TOWEL. The pack of 3 is $13 and it will turn you into an evangelist, too. This is the secret sauce of the special shower – it was my final, previously-missing piece. My whole body feels like your shins and ankles do after you get an awesome pedicure. I am smooth FOR DAYS.

When it comes to soap, though (you know, the stuff you have to put ON the cloth you’re about to fall in love with), I’ve been really surprised by the quality of this $7 Target find. It’s my mom’s go-to and I gotta say…Brenda’s got good taste. It’s super moisturizing and it smells awesome. I like to follow that up with this $8 underarm soap from Megababe because I am weirdly obsessed with the way my armpits smell – especially after switching to natural deodorant – and am on an eternal quest to make them smell like nothing all the time. (This helps.)

Shave (Yes, Again)

Yeah, just do it again. Full disclosure: I went to Catholic school and aced the whole “shave from the top of your knee sock to the bottom of your skirt” lesson, but clearly missed the whole “here’s how you get the entirety of your leg in one go without missing enormous patches” class.

Plus, if you’re trying to shave anywhere else, your skin is super warm and open and it’ll be more receptive thanks to all the prep you’ve done. Good job!!!

Cleanse Face & Rinse Off

The final step: start your skincare routine in the shower! I normally use Clinique’s cleanser because I love the exfoliating texture, but I recently grabbed one of these cleansing sponges to use with smoother cleansers, like this one from Glossier. If you’re super into skincare, you can see a ton of recommendations from a BUNCH of different EHD women with different skin types right here!

And pat yourself on the back, because your time IN the shower has come to an end. Now, it’s time to treat yourself outside of the shower.

photo by tessa neustadt | from: sylvia’s makeover: a quick bathroom refreshThe Cozy Essentials

A nice towel really is everything, folks, so I’m here to shout at you a little bit about the wonders of the bath sheet. TOWELS BE GONE, THIS IS A SHEET-ONLY HOME. Bath sheets are enormous, plush, cozy, and you’ll feel like a little kid getting wrapped up after a bath. They’re such a luxe, everyday indulgence – I grabbed these from Boll & Branch last year (thereby retiring the neon Target Room Essentials towels I’d had since 2009, RIP) and while I had originally balked at the price tag, they were absolutely worth the splurge.

I also love a memory foam bath mat – stepping out of the shower and on to something soft, drying, and bouncy NEVER gets old. This one from Target is only $22 and it’s not ugly (trust me – finding affordable, aesthetically pleasing, memory foam bath mats is a TASK).

And last but not least: the robe. THIS IS THE ONE. I’ve purchased this one from Brooklinen in a few colors (for what it’s worth, the white stays more stiff and “hotel,” while the colors seem to soften up a little bit more) and truly, NOTHING COMPARES. It also cleans up like a dream – I may or may not have splattered A LOT of plum sauce all over myself while wearing the white robe this morning (you DON’T eat dumplings for breakfast???) and the stains came right out without any special treatment. You’ll have this for a LONG time, so it’s 100% worth the investment.

Get Moisturized

Break out the body butter, guys. This is not the time for your everyday lotion – this is the time to use your special occasion, super-hydrating moisturizer. You’re going to be so soft and smooth – even if you didn’t shave – and now, it’s time to lock that feeling in. (As a side note, I cannot recommend grabbing a set of these $4 silicone brushes enough to help with application. I use one for face products and one for body products, and the brushes mean that I (a.) don’t waste any product under my nails and (b.) don’t have to stick my little paws in a million different containers.

I oscillate between these three moisturizers, but this whipped argan oil butter is my all-time favorite. I have it in the vanilla apricot scent and it is SO UNBELIEVABLY GOOD. The first time I used it, I woke up in the middle of the night and in my disoriented haze was like, “what smells so good?” and y’all, IT WAS ME. I WAS THE THING THAT SMELLED SO GOOD.

Since Josie Maran’s products really work for my dry skin, I also love her body butter with retinol. And I need to thank you, the readers – last week, I put out a call for a great, affordable, daily moisturizer and you delivered with the recommendations for Vanicream. It’s a great choice for every day and it means that I can keep my special moisturizers on hand for use after SPECIAL SHOWER. Thank you!!!

The End: Oil It Up

WE’VE MADE IT. THE FINAL STEP. I know that it’s been a long process, but this one was a surprise to me (even though it shouldn’t have been). Look, I know that oils help lock in moisturizers on your face…I just didn’t realize that it’d do the same thing for your body. These are products that I like, but I’m sure you could also just use, like, an ACTUAL oil of your choice.

First up: Fur Oil. If you have any body hair, this stuff makes it SUPER soft. (They also have a life-changing ingrown concentrate and if these two products sound like something you’d be interested in, I can’t recommend this duo enough.)

My final oil choice depends on what I have on the docket for the rest of the day. If I eschew my own advice and take a special shower early in the morning before spending a lot of time outdoors, I’ll top myself off with Supergoop’s Glow Oil. This stuff makes you look like you’re fresh off a beach – it’s just a little bit of long-lasting shine and I LOVE IT. (Plus, can’t hate on the SPF.)

But if I’m staying indoors, this shimmering oil has been a life-changer. It’s a super splurge for me so I only bought it per Em’s recommendation and dang, THAT LADY KNOWS HER BEAUTY PRODUCTS. She was right!!! This oil has a super subtle shimmer, locks in my moisturizer, and not to put too much value on a product, but like, wearing this stuff boosts my confidence by SEVERAL notches. I really, really, really love it. I will continue to pay $90 for this for the rest of my life because of what it does for my mental state.

Proceed as a Glowing, Dewy, Dolphin-Skinned Babylook at that moisturization!! like a glassy glazed donut! it’s a new arm!

That’s all, folks. For me, this takes about an hour and a half if I’m not rushing but it’s the best hour and a half of my week! Follow this with your standard skincare routine and leave the room as a whole new dolphin/person hybrid. Actions speak louder than words, so give this process a try and then let me know what you think. (Please!) I can’t really describe how delightful I feel after finishing this whole thing, so I just want to spread the joy.

But in the meantime…what are YOUR shower essentials? Any splurges that are worth it? I think this is my routine for the long-haul, but y’all are a persuasive bunch, so I could be swayed to add some new products to the arsenal…LET’S CHAT??? xx

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Tessa Neustadt | From: Portland Reveal: Creating the Dreamiest of Master Bathrooms

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