Emily Henderson's Blog, page 28

Four New Vintage Finds (And Where I Styled Them)

I need nothing and yet here we are, with new things. The good news is by the “School of Advanced Rationality” we all know that buying vintage locally doesn’t count as consumption or consumerism. Perhaps even the opposite? So these are the four things that I found over the holiday break and I’m frankly really really into all of them.

A Side Table For Charlie

I found this side table in the basement of a huge antique mall (it’s an old school converted into mall in Newberg, OR) and it was covered in other broken pieces. I thought it was a cool shape and that it would go with Charlie’s post-modern tween vibe that he is into (it seems like a 70’s office but since it’s solid wood it felt cool, not janky). It was $90, which felt high since it was covered in furniture and dust (not a curated vintage shop). I wanted it to be $60, so we settled easily on $75 which honestly still felt like it was too high, but since I knew exactly where it was going it didn’t feel like a greedy hoard. Of course in reality a $75 unique wood table is actually a steal and I’m so glad I did it. I don’t love the black plastic wheels but kept them on for now because I was too lazy and it’s not like Charlie cared. BTW his room is kinda coming together – he still doesn’t really want me to “decorate” it which I get and frankly have other fish to fry, so we are just collecting cool stuff and I’m letting him have fun with it. He got the Simpson prank phone for Christmas and the red balloon sculpture dog will go on my gift guide next year – we actually bought it used at Memory Den in Portland, but its a really hilarious and fun robotic dog that does inappropriate things and makes us all laugh (pee, fart, poop, bark, etc).

My First Tiffany Lamp

I’ve loved Tiffany lamps since I was young because they are colorful, floral, old world and when done right, provide the prettiest ambient light. So much craftsmanship goes into these! I’ve been calling a comeback for a while (some of the 90s Tiffany lamps are kinda rough, TBH) but it’s really about the lamp and where you style it. Oh, and I’ve fallen in love with many before and they were like $1200, so when I found this one for $180 I snagged it (still expensive, but I knew it was worth). The colors in it are PERFECT and it’s so solid and heavy. I thought it would look best in the dark blue media room, but there was nowhere to put it. Then I stuck it here and I’m OBSESSED with it in our kitchen – especially in the evening and morning during these long dark winters. It gives such a pretty colorful glow.

Vintage Painting From Brian

Brian and I don’t really surprise each other with big holiday gifts, but I was thrilled that he noted my love for this vintage painting at our local dope vintage Scandinavian store Form and Function in Multnomah Village. I love the colors, the world, the boats, the blues, and greens with hits of red. I don’t know where it’s going to land forever, but I love it in here for now.

I put it in the guest room for now and it’s making me happy, but is also making me really want to finish designing my bed so I can bring up the bed that’s currently in my room (but I designed for this room) in its rightful place. We’ll see if the painting should move after that happens.

New Painting On Mantel

I saw this piece on Shop Wilma’s IG page, by an artist named P.R. McIntosh in the 1960s. It was sold by the dealer, @donefortheday, and I scooped it up immediately. I’ve wanted a more impactful piece here for a while and have been eyeing Charlie Salas-Humara’s work (which I still do) but this one is so good. Clearly, I’m having a real moment with this color palette.

No need to look at my sad fireplace I just wanted to show you the sense of scale. That fireplace is getting painted in February I SWEAR. The two vases on the left are not vintage, also Christmas presents from Brian from Form and Function Oh, and just so you can gauge pricing this painting was $550 which felt reasonable to me since it’s big, the colors felt perfect for me, and the frame is even good enough. Supporting local vintage dealers that are putting in so much time to curate cool stuff makes me feel good.

Art is the one thing that I never pass up if it’s within a reasonable budget and I love it. I think that vintage art absolutely MAKES the home, turns any basic room into a conversation, and it’s always more affordable than a newer piece.

*Photos by Kaitlin Green

The post Four New Vintage Finds (And Where I Styled Them) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

Love It Or Leave It: Should These Readers Replace A Piece Of Furniture They’re Struggling With Or Make It Work? Here’s What We Said…

Welcome to Love It or Leave It, a fun concept Jess and I cooked up earlier this month to satisfy both of my design loves: helping people to shop for specific pieces that will help improve the way their room functions, and brainstorming ways for readers to make something they already have work. We put out a call to our audience and it turns out, more people just need help shopping. Ha. We did find a reader who let me have some creative fun with an existing item, though, so read to the bottom to see what we did with a *super* rough around the edges dresser she found on Facebook for $25!

First up, Katie, who wants to revamp her whole room eventually but is starting with her media cabinet.

Leave It: Media Cabinet Trade Up

“This room as a whole is a little bit of a problem child, and I think part of the problem is the buffet/bar. Once I get it figured out, I should have a much better idea on what I want for chairs, colors for side tables, what type of lamps/accessories, etc. All of the pieces, even the curtains, were bought/collected for my last apartment and we just made them work when we moved here two years ago. Here’s what I need: Something that fits the space better, provides some storage but also display space, and helps to define the space better.” — Katie B.

Before I jump into my recommendations, I want to add some more information I got from this reader. She said the sofa is where it is because she has toddlers that she doesn’t want climbing onto that pony wall, otherwise she’d prefer it in front of the window. From the door on the left to the window wall is 14 feet, from floor to picture rail is 8 feet, and the total ceiling height is 14 feet. She’s open to a bookshelf or a buffet.

Now, for my take. I agree that their existing buffet (48 inches wide) is just too small, especially with 14-foot ceilings. The hardware and two-toned finish feels a little dated in here, and I think a wider and/or taller piece is going to work wonders for grounding this room. It could be such a cute piece with a cabinet knob/pull refresh and maybe even a paint job, but I’d find another room for it.

What I’m not clear about is whether this is their main living area where they’d prefer to have a TV or just a front receiving room. Either way, I’m going to give them an opportunity to use the wall space for art or a television.

While I LOVE big giant bookcases (and think the height would help balance the tall ceilings), I don’t think this is the room to do that in. They need something with a little breathing room. Here’s what I’m thinking:

Top row, from left: Austen Black Traditional 3 Piece Entertainment Center, $1,395 at Living Spaces | Bankhead TV Stand, $1,240 at Wayfair | Besta Oak Console (Doors, Tops & Sides Only, Besta Cabinet Included), $1,632 at Fronteriors | Bottom row, from left: Bowie Media Console (92″), $2,799 at Pottery Barn | Jasper 72 in. Tall Warm Pine Solid Wood Standard Ladder Bookcase with Fluted Cabinet, Set of 3 | Scarlett TV Stand, $630 at Wayfair

Katie included in her email that she really liked the Jasper ladder bookcases, but her husband didn’t like that they couldn’t add a TV to the space if that’s the route they went. It didn’t seem like a deal breaker, so I included it down here because I think stylistically, they could work well in her home. I would recommend that instead of the set of 2 she showed me, she ups it to 3, to cover about 100 inches of wall space. Since the bottom 8 inches are open, it can still accommodate the A/C return at the baseboard on the left side of that long wall. I don’t, however, love the color of the warm pine with all the other wood in the room. It’ll feel a bit too one note, tbh unless they plan on painting the walls.

Because of that, I rounded out some other picks in different colors. The black entertainment center from Living Spaces is such a great price, but it’s not clear to me what the size really is. It says 74 inches, but is that the media stand itself not including the bookshelves, or is that total? It may be too diminutive if that’s total, tbh. The black is a nice departure from all the oak in the room, but the silhouette is still classic enough to make sense. That Bankhead TV Stand isn’t 100% in line with my taste (mostly just that arch at the very bottom rail), but the color is nice, the size is right and it provides plenty of storage. I like the warm, deep tone of the Bowie Media Console for some variation but it’s about three times the original price of what Katie said she was looking to spend. The Scarlett is very cute and well-priced but I wonder about quality in the long run.

Oh, and that Besta Oak Console in the green…I had to include that because I’ve had a five-door Besta set up for about 10 years now and it’s still one of the hardest working pieces in my house. Fronteriors makes beautiful doors, tops and sides to make it extra special, and that green stain could be very fun in that room.

Leave It: Family-Friendly Reading Nook

“We moved into our new home a year ago and I’m still working to replace a few pieces of furniture. I’m interested in replacing the chair in the corner with something high-quality and stylish. I’d love to be able to cozy up on it to read a book with the kids or do some work, but haven’t found the right one that fits the style of the room. We also have kids + a dog so durability is a must! I’d like to avoid anything that feels very mid-century.” — Andrea K.

I moved into my home two years ago, and my bedroom looks far less finished than this does. So, Andrea, I’m just here to tell you that you’re doing great! But I was so stoked when I got this request because look, you may not know this about me, but I’m an armchair fanatic. Give me any excuse to spend someone else’s money to shop for armchairs, and I’ll take it!

So, Andrea is working with roughly 42 inches between the drapery and the dresser, and her budget is flexible but she’s thinking around $2,000, which is a pretty healthy amount for an armchair. I wanted to find her something that’s sturdy because she mentions having kids and pets, a bit modern to match the room’s current clean-lined aesthetic, but cushy and comfortable for cuddling up in.

Her existing chair looks like a white boucle and I think this little corner is begging for some muted, subtle color. A moss green or buttery yellow/citrine would still feel like a neutral here while providing some contrast between the dark gray curtain and the deep-stained wood of the dresser. I didn’t want to go overboard with pattern or a dramatic hue because that’s just not in line with what I’m seeing in the rest of the space. I rounded up six options that I think would all look beautiful here, three being more classic and tailored design options, and three being more “statement” chair picks.

Top row, from left: Vale Armchair, $1,899 at The Citizenry | Amelia Swivel Chair, $1,599 at Sixpenny | Matrix Velvet Lounge Chair, $599 at Article | Bottom row, from left: Desmond Chair, $720 at West Elm | Gio Chair, $1,699 at Sixpenny | Rumford Accent Chair by Jake Arnold, $1,399 at Crate & Barrel

Everything here is in budget (or well below), and sized right for this reading nook to-be.

My top pick is the Amelia Swivel Chair by Sixpenny. It’s one of their more compact designs (we’re not working with much space here, remember), but just the right shape for sharing with a little pint-sized human or pet. It’s a touch more formal with the skirt, but still really clean-looking and cozy. Also in the comfort chair category is this neat little seat from The Citizenry (love those bun feet) and Article’s Matrix chair, which I got for my parents and it’s so soft. It’s a petite chair that delivers big on comfort and color.

Now, for a little fun if the reader is looking for a “moment.” The Desmond Chair might be a bit too contemporary but man do I love it! Plus it’s on sale for around $720 which is such a steal in the accent chair world. The remaining two are about twice as much as that, but so special. The ridged frame of the Gio Chair is SO good, but definitely isn’t as much of a snuggle chair as the others being that it has wood arms rather than upholstery. And I love everything about the Rumford Chair, but it’s certainly more of a style risk, and I’m unsure of this reader’s risk tolerance.

Love It: Dressing Up a Dresser

“The dresser we had when we moved into our remodeled 100-year-old bungalow was sweet, but no longer my style, and so much white. She was sold to a new home. Enter the replacement dresser, a $25 Facebook marketplace find with potential. The dimensions, drawer pulls, and straight lines were what we had searched for, so I nabbed it! My plan was to finish removing the half-ripped-off painted wallpaper and repaint it; I haven’t made it very far yet. I’m in need of a path for color. The rug sums up my general color choice: blue/green. The bedroom is right off the living room. One side of the room has quite a bit of wood. I could consider painting the room, as well. I like the comforter color but originally considered doing the dresser in that shade, so I’m willing to change up the bed though not with a white comforter as it needs more charm, I think.” — Jennifer W.

I want to begin by saying how lovely the previous dresser was (above, right). The scale was great for the space and it was really charming. I can see how the white dresser on the light gray walls and the gray rug (she says it’s blue/green so maybe it’s super light and the sun is washing it out in the photo) might feel too sterile, but it was lovely.

Now, for the new dresser. The reader mentioned they were looking for this smaller scale and something in a clean, modern style, so while I liked the original dresser for the room maybe a bit better, I’m gonna trust that Jennifer has her reasons (plus, there’s no getting back the other dresser anyway).

Jennifer brings up making some other changes, like the bedding and even the wall color, but we’re going to stick with discussing the dresser and see if that takes her anywhere. I wanted to deliver some paint color recommendations in the family color she seems to like. I also think adding a wood top to the dresser would warm it up and marry well with the wood on the other side of the room via the bed and nightstand. This can be pricey, but will really elevate the piece. Also, she notes liking the hardware, but personally, I find it a bit too starkly modern as compared to what else is in this bedroom. It’s just optional, but I’m also including some new affordable pulls. Let’s take a look at everything:

Top row, from left: SW 7605 Gale Force by Sherwin-Williams | SW 6208 Pewter Green by Sherwin-Williams | Newburg Green HC-158 by Benjamin Moore | Bottom row, from left: Black Forest Green HC-187 by Benjamin Moore | No. 289 Inchyra Blue by Farrow & Ball | SW 6236 Grays Harbor by Sherwin-Williams

The green this reader is trying to replace (that’s on the painted wallpaper she’s working to peel off) doesn’t have enough depth, and she should look for something with a little more black or grey in it. Gale Force is a gorgeous color for cabinetry (that actually looks a bit more blue in real life). Stay tuned for a special project reveal soon that uses this killer hue. Pewter Green is much more green than it is blue—and you’ll recognize it from the Portland kitchen. It would work well if she wants to keep her bedding blue.

I had to sneak in my favorite Inchyra Blue from my old dining room as it’s that perfect sort-of-blue-sort-of-green-totally-gorgeous shade. For something more squarely emerald green, I love Black Forest Green and for something bluer, Grays Harbor is a solid pick (the color of the cabinet in the upstairs hallway in the Portland project, of course).

From left: BESTÅ Top Panel, Oak Veneer at IKEA | 4 ft. L x 25 in. D Finished Engineered Walnut Butcher Block Countertop | 4 ft. L x 25 in. D Unfinished Birch Solid Wood Butcher Block Countertop

Now, I don’t know the dimensions of her dresser, so I can’t give real recommendations here, but here are a few options. I think a deeper walnut stain is ideal for a deep jewel tone, but she could also go the route of a lighter unfinished birch or white oak if she’s after something not as regal. For a more budget-friendly solution, you can try to make something yourself. Check out this DIY and this DIY for two options.

From left: 10 Pack 10-inch Champagne Copper Cabinet Pulls, $60 at Amazon | khtumeware 6 Pack 10-Inch Champagne Bronze Cabinet Pulls, $60 at Amazon | Asidrama 6 Pack 10-Inch Brushed Gold Cabinet Pulls, $47 at Amazon

Now, for the last part that she didn’t ask for…possibly some new hardware? While what she has might be A-okay after some paint rehab of the dresser, I do like the slightly softer appeal of these three. This 10-pack is subtle, simple and clean, while this 6-pack feels more traditional. If she’s looking for clean and contemporary, I do like these.

All in, between the original $25 expense of the dresser, paint (not including supplies because I’m not sure what she already has on hand), a wood top and maybe even some hardware, this project will come in at around $300…not bad for what will end up looking like a brand new dresser!

—

There we are! I had a lot of fun window shopping with a hyper-specific list, and hope that these three readers find some solid solutions in my recommendations. And as always, let us know in the comments if there are any other areas of your home you’d love our help with. Throw out some suggestions or ideas that would be helpful to address, and we’ll see what we can cook up.

Until next time…

The post Love It Or Leave It: Should These Readers Replace A Piece Of Furniture They’re Struggling With Or Make It Work? Here’s What We Said… appeared first on Emily Henderson.

My First Time Installing Wallpaper! Spoonflower’s “Prepasted” Paper FTW (Introducing Our Sweet Laundry Closet)

Like many design projects before this one, this laundry closet was super boring and yet kinda daunting to fix so it fell down the priority list in life, with no guilt. I knew that eventually I wanted wallpaper in here, I dreamed of a fun pattern and color that delighted you when you opened the doors. I ordered a ton of samples from Spoonflower (their inventory is incredible), but what I didn’t know was that I could install their “prepasted” wallpaper myself. AND NOW IT’S ALL I WANT TO USE IN MY HOME!! It was SO easy, not scary, was so fast, and needed only a few very basic tools. My team blocked off three days for this project (to shoot the content, too) and it took under 6 hours. Sold.

Where Is This Laundry Closet?

The laundry closet is on the landing of the second floor near both kids’ rooms and the guest room (seen above when we first moved in, Oscar shaming me for this basic rug). We have a larger mudroom with a smaller capacity washer/dryer downstairs, but this is where the bulk of the laundry gets done (it gets thrown in the guestroom where we tackle it all on Sundays.). It was pretty basic, with the cutest vintage doors, but the inside was super boring which made it a perfect place for me to do something fun (and do it myself, a very low-risk space).

Spoonflower has an incredible inventory of wallpaper patterns and colors, many customizable. They’ve even got an inspiration page just for laundry rooms. They work with thousands of artists who design patterns of every style and every color. You can also choose between traditional unpasted, prepasted (what we did and I’m never going back), peel-and-stick, or metallic paper (which we used in my niece’s closet). Plus, all their patterns come as fabrics as well if you want to go full ‘Garden State’ and match your curtains to the walls. Everything we ordered got here within 2 weeks and I was pleased as punch.

Wallpaper

The install was so easy, they created a video that shows you how to install prepasted wallpaper here and we produced a reel here with some basics (but their video has a great step-by-step). Essentially, the glue is already on the back and you use a basic spray bottle with water to activate it. Then you book it on a table (fold over the sides), wait 5 minutes, and hang it vertically (starting from the top and, of course, being mindful of repeats). You use a squeegee to get the bubbles out and wipe off any excess glue or water with a rag or sponge. The paper is so forgiving and easy to take off and reposition. There are a ton of tips to think about which they have outlined, but trust me that it was so much easier than predicted. We made a reel about it here.

Again, I couldn’t believe how easy it was to do it ourselves (the hardest part was taking out the washer and dryer). I even thought about buying the same yardage in fabric and figuring out how to cover the fronts of the washer and dryer (which I quickly decided was a totally unnecessary and wrong idea).

Wallpaper | Washer + Dryer | Switchplates | Laundry Basket (vintage) | Rug (similar) | Vintage Door Paint Color

I know that our washer/dryer look a bit old school/dated and that’s because they are not fancy or designer. Welcome to our Speed Queen, aka the incredibly basic, efficient, high capacity, industrial strength, durable, and never breaks down washer/dryer machine. And yes, top loading FTW. If anyone has a genius (but not super extensive or expensive) way to make the dryer vent look better let me know. It doesn’t bother me enough to think about it but sure, I’d rather it not be in my pretty shots

Shelves Paint Color | Rope Trim | Wood Brackets | Baskets (vintage)

I designed the shelves pretty simply and yet they turned out so dang cute! I went to Aurora to find vintage brackets or some reclaimed antique wood trim but came up empty. I then went to Home Depot and found these adorable brackets and rope trim piece. As you can see it’s a basic design – so Dave, our wonderful handyman, installed a support piece of wood around the sides and back along with three brackets per shelf. They are 24″ deep since the closet itself is so deep and we need to easily reach the detergent. The first shelf houses laundry stuff (detergent, lint bin, missing sock basket, dryer sheets, etc) while the top shelf is for linens that we don’t need to access very often.

Rechargable Lamp | Wood Lazy Susan | Glass Container | Metal Container (similar) | Waffle Towels | Striped Towels (similar)

I love how the rope trim on the front of the shelves talks to the squiggles in the wallpaper pattern. Dave painted the shelves and brackets Comfort Gray by Sherwin-Williams which is a light blue/green/gray that matches the lighter tones in the wallpaper. I couldn’t be happier.

We all agreed that the old-school vibe of the washer/dryers combined with the vintage vibe of the wallpaper feels strangely appropriate and works in this older home so well. This closet now has so much charm and it took 2 days!

While I didn’t personally build and install the shelves, Dave claims that it’s totally DIY-able – not a super high-skilled task, but shout out to Dave for doing it so perfectly. Someday I fantasize about not being so busy and can learn how to do things like this myself, but right now I so appreciate talented folks to help so I can do the things that only I can do.

Walking up the stairs and seeing this sweetness makes me so happy! And I was so surprised and delighted that both kids and Brian love the wallpaper (like they mentioned it to me even before I asked them which isn’t typical!) It’s just so stinking cute. That laundry closet wasn’t like this crazy eyesore because I could shut the doors, but every time I opened them they were full of garbage – just a pile of socks, lint, wrappers, change, etc. on top of the dryer. And in the span of 2 days, it was transformed to be so cute.

I can’t say enough great things about Spoonflower’s prepasted wallpaper patterns, let alone this adorably perfect folk art pattern by artist Melissa Johnson Design. I wish I hadn’t already ordered the wallpaper for the kids’ bath or our bathroom – I don’t trust my skills to do normal unpasted wallpaper myself, but from now on I’m pretty much a professional wallpaper installer when it comes to Spoonflower’s prepasted. AND it’s so much easier to remove as the glue is less permanent. So for rooms (like kids’ rooms), it’s especially perfect if you aren’t sure that your daughter, for instance, is going to love butterflies and flowers when she is a teenager on her walls. Prepasted Spoonflower wallpaper for the win. Thanks so much, Spoonflower for partnering with me on this laundry closet. What a nice way to start the year:)

*Photos by Kaitlin Green

The post My First Time Installing Wallpaper! Spoonflower’s “Prepasted” Paper FTW (Introducing Our Sweet Laundry Closet) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

Are We Over White Bedding? Here Is What I’m Into Instead…

I don’t know you guys – it just feels like the all-white hotel-style bed is not really doing it for me, but perhaps it hasn’t for a while and I’m just now ready to announce it. Is it the fault of my year-round spray tan that leaves a body-shaped orange glow on just my side of the bed when I use white sheets? Well, yes. But even despite that, I have been drawn to slightly patterned (but not textured) sheets for a while because they tend to be more forgiving and therefore last longer. TBH I don’t understand splurging on white sheets or white towels for everyday use because they never stay bright white. But even beyond the practicality it just seems like we are moving towards a pattern-on-pattern aesthetic that is making me want floral duvets, striped sheets, plaid anything…little prints, mixed with ruffles, with quilts layered at the end. I actually pitched this post last October and recently we had a bedding refresh partnership with Anthropologie (who does the non-white bedding so well) so we snapped some photos of this extremely fun and soft floral set. It confirmed what I wanted because it just added so much life, and such an immediate impact. So today we figured we’d round up other patterns we love (and yes, you can absolutely mix a big floral with a small stripe like I did).

Big Floral Patterns + Smaller Printsphoto by kaitlin green

The large-scale floral with the tiny-scale stripe is really working for me (I know that the stripe will work on Elliot’s bed and our bed – and yes, I put king bedding on queen beds all the time and have stopped buying queen so that we can easily interchange them all).

Organic Cotton Percale Printed Sheet Set | Jawahar Duvet Cover & Shams | RHODE Thistle Sheet Set

All these prints are giving “grannycore” or “cottagecore” or whatever trendy core means old world and more decorative – and I love it. It’s just so sweet. I think one of the reasons our bedding got boring was because we wanted the ease of everything matching (true story) and having bespoke bedding for each room might be too labor-intensive for you to keep track of (also true story). But again it’s just so sweet and maybe you could come up with a capsule collection of different prints that work for all the beds to mix and match?

Poppy in Sunburst Quilt | Luxe Sateen Core Sheet Set | Scalloped Edge Ditsy Floral Sheet Set

Here are some more warm-toned and equally cute/happy options!

Stripescreative direction by emily henderson | design and styling by emily bowser | photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: this organic, punchy bedroom might be our new favorite makeover

It’s no secret that I’m a fan of stripes. Simple and can go with anything and any style. So yes, I LOVE how this looks and even though it’s light the stripe adds so much and is forgiving to dingyness. It was from a bedroom we designed for one of my best friends who wanted a modern organic look…but not a boring one. I think we nailed it.

left: design by jess bunge, styling by emily bowser, photo by sara ligorria-tramp, from: the feel-good modern romantic bedroom makeover jess did for her dear friend | right: design by emily henderson, photo by kaitlin green, from: a beautiful bedroom makeover reveal for my friend, with some of my favorite bedding

Stripes also work so well with florals. Since both of these rooms have floral wallpaper and we didn’t want only solid-colored sheets, stripes were the perfect contrasting accent! Here are a few shoppable options on the market:

Pine Green Pembroke Stripe Linen Blend Duvet Cover | Organic Cotton Percale Sheet Set | Navy Stripe Linen Sheet Set

I tend to mix stripes with solids or stripes with florals, but if you love a stripes on stripes look it can absolutely look awesome.

European Linen Gingham Sheet Set | Printed Performance 400 Thread Count Sheet Set | European Linen Stripe Quilt Set

I would probably stick with warm tones with warm stripes and cool with cool for sheet and duvet combos.

Soliddesign by emily henderson | photo by kaitlin green | from: my brother’s primary bedroom – how we added color while keeping the calm

For those of you who love linen sheets, there are so many pretty moody colors out there – Garnet Hill, Brooklinen, Anthropologie, and Parachute all have great options. Brian and I are not into linen sheets ourselves because we love a percale, but we do love this linen bedspread (as seen below) that we put on when we have parties and people want a tour of the house. Also, I made my brother buy bone instead of bright white percale from Parachute which is a great alternative if you still want a light neutral base but don’t want white bright…

design by emily henderson | photo by kaitlin green | from: our primary bedroom reveal! she’s blue (shocking), calm, and ready for a full show and tell

Underneath those linen spreads are likely the rose or blue brushed cotton from Parachute which is my current favorite for softness and their color palette works so well in our room.

Classic Percale Duvet Set | Pale Blue Linen Sheet Set | 100% Linen Sheet Set

Here are some awesome cool toned colorful bedding options that I really like!

Pink Clay & Terracotta Bedding Bundle | Cotton Velvet Quilt | Raspberry Linen Blend Duvet Cover

If you go on Bed Threads site they have a bunch of really great preset color combos if you have a hard time deciding what colors you might want in your room. Also, velvet bedding accents are definitely having a moment and Quince has some great affordable quilts.

So this is your CTA to rethink the expensive white sheets and opt for a tone, a color, a print, or a pattern. Especially for a more basic room (like our pink guest room that doesn’t have its headboard yet) this bedding really livened it up and just looks so happy now.

Opening mage Credits: Design by Emily Henderson | Photo by Kaitlin Green

The post Are We Over White Bedding? Here Is What I’m Into Instead… appeared first on Emily Henderson.

UPDATED: The 11 Kitchen Trends Of 2025 That You’ll Want In Your Home Forever (Yes, They’re That Good)

Welcome to our biggest post of the year! That’s right, nearly every year our annual kitchen trend post is the most popular which equally feels like a huge honor and responsibility as the gal that’s been writing them for the last 6 years. As we always say, when it comes to “trends” and more permanent applications in spaces such as a kitchen, we like to caution people because unless you know you’ll love it for 20 years maybe don’t… However, I like to choose and highlight our predictions very thoughtfully. While I’m not saying every person will love every “trend,” we think each one of them has longevity, can spark inspiration, or show a special detail you hadn’t thought of. Some of these trends would likely require a remodel while others are easy swaps if you’re looking for a little kitchen spruce up. So without further ado let’s see what this year is about to have in store for the world of kitchens.

Rounded Cabinets

I feel probably the most passionate about this one. Actually, I already talked about it in this post last August so you know I mean business. It looks fresh but isn’t too “right now” and I feel has total longevity when done well. Oh, and the style versatility is amazing. Let me show you.

architect: studio johnston | head design by stefania reynolds | styling by kirsten stanwix bookallil | photo by anson smart

Now, if someone had told me that rounded cabinetry is trending without showing me a picture, I would have likely pictured a more modern design like this stunning one by Stefania Reynolds of Studio Johnston. This is actually Stefania’s family home! It’s modern, soft, playful, and just cool. The way those rounded corners bring an effortless contrast to the harder angles is perfection. Another contrast that I love is the glossy sheen of the cabinetry with all the natural wood grain and natural limewash accent walls. It creates such a nice balance stylistically.

Also, I know this isn’t about lighting but that oversized sconce in that nook is SO GOOD.

design by white studio & co interior design | styling by julia freiseisen | photo by claire mcferran

This beautiful kitchen by White Studio & Co Interior Design leans much more modern traditional but is softened by the curved corners of the lower cabinetry and island. Doesn’t this just scream “I’m a very special kitchen”? My god is it elegant. This is a perfect detail if you want a very neutral kitchen but also want it to feel like it’s got a little something extra special going on:)

design by bidgood | photo by mary mcneill knowles

I believe this incredible kitchen by Bidgood was the first one last year where I really took note of this trend (or the initial murmurs of a trend). The cabinetry in the range surround is just so special. In this space, the rounded detail feels both modern and retro! Then paired with the sweet light dusty blue and butter yellow paint colors, this kitchen is dripping with charm.

Don’t worry, you’ll a few more examples as we get continue through the post:)

Integrated “Stand Alone” Cupboardsdesign by nina farmer interiors | photo by jared kuzia

Integrated refrigerators are not new, obviously, but what I’ve been seeing more and more of are cupboard/hutch-like pieces being integrated with the more traditional floor-to-ceiling cabinetry. The majority of these “cupboards” are in fact where a lot of refrigerators are hiding but in that extremely special kitchen above by Nina Farmer Interiors (I just bought her book and have no idea why it took me so long), the fridge looks like it’s in the wood cabinetry on the far left and which leads me to believe the green cupboard is just that, a beautiful integrated Dutch larder cupboard. It’s a standout piece but feels like it belongs.

Ugh, I also just noticed that incredible double wood trim around the doorway. Aside from seeing how awesome this kitchen is in general, that sort of detail is why you hire a designer. So so good.

design by vaughan design & development | photo by chris snook

This beautiful cupboard-looking piece is most definitely a refrigerator but at first glance, you might assume it’s simply a regular cupboard. I love the sweetness this design brings to a kitchen and for this kitchen by Vaughan Design & Development especially! All the textures, perfectly aged materials, and color palette are amazing. Putting a naked fridge in there (especially a modern one) would have really changed the whole feel of it and I’m so glad they went with this design.

design by sarah sherman samuel | photo by daniel peter

It’s not a real kitchen trend post if Sarah Sherman Samuel isn’t included, am I right? Well, here she is with a “cupboard fridge” as well as her DIY beaded cabinet fronts from her Semihandmade collaboration!

design by sarah sherman samuel | photo by daniel peter

There are a million things to love about this kitchen (I mean look at those counter edges!!) but this fridge cupboard is a very special feature that really gives added charm to an already very charming kitchen!

There were a couple of examples I found with triangle tops instead of the bell shape that I loved too. I just didn’t hear back from the designers in time to get them in this post:)

Pop Of “Permanent” Color

Ok, so yes. At the beginning of the post, I said we usually caution people from making potentially very bold or super colorful choices with permanent features. On the other hand, if you are a person who loves a bold moment and loves color then this is for you!

design by monika michałowska | photo by mood authors

I am very much in love with this kitchen design by Monika Michałowska. Those soft minty green cabinets (a trend we called last year that I continue to love), the veining stone with a short backsplash, those herringbone wood floors, all soft and stunning. Then boom! That pop of bright red is so exciting. The kitchen would have clearly been so pretty without it but with it, the whole space is taken to another level.

design by a. naber design | photo by charlotte lea

This pop of baby blue is a little less bold than the red but just as special and puts a little extra electricity in this wonderful kitchen by a. NABER DESIGN. Baby blue is on fire right now but it’s also a timeless color when done right. I really love this so much.

design by curio interior design | styling by adrian manuel | photo by kelsey ann rose

In that August trend post I also talked about zelliege tiles and the cool ways they are being used. Well, a pop of color is a very cool way. I love that instead of this kitchen peninsula being made out of the same wood the cabinetry is, Curio Interior Design decided to go for a rich brick red zellige tile. It’s eye-catching but doesn’t overpower the space and adds an incredible amount of texture.

design by rebecca zajac | styling by emily edith bowser | photo by sara ligorria-tramp

Then with this kitchen by the amazing Rebecca Zajac (the cabinet designer of Bowser’s kitchen), she chose that beautiful green zellige tile as the perfect color pop. It really makes this kitchen look so inviting and extra special. Plus, greens and blues (depending on the tone) are a great choice if you want color but not have it overpower the room. They are neutrals after all;)

Reeding Accents

Not a brand-new trend but it feels extra on fire right now so let’s dig in!

design by charlotte lucas design | photo by chris edwards

Reeding is another one of those features that can be used for almost any style. Take this wonderful modern luxe kitchen by Charlotte Lucas Design. It adds a refined organic texture that beautifully contrasts the painted modern cabinetry and luxe lighting.

design by poco designs | photo by anson smart

In this unreal kitchen by POCO Designs, she not only used reeding on the island but also on the cabinet fronts. It’s simple, elegant, and then with that incredible burgundy marble, it’s a texture design dream!

design by sarah sherman samuel | photos by daniel peter

Of course, Sarah is on this list again! I love love how she used wood reeding not only on the body of the island but also on the support post. I don’t have much more to say aside from that it’s beautiful, the texture (like all the others) makes my eyes extremely happy, and the wood tone is perfect.

design by sharp + grey interiors | photo by rebecca mcalpin

In a bit of a twist for the last example, I’m looking at this tile! I’ve had my eye on this style of tile for a minute so I’m really hoping this is the year it’ll so more mainstream. I mean it’s so good and it has that reeded look!

Colorful Window Trim

If you are thinking, “Hey Jess, wasn’t this a trend you called in 2020?” Well yes, yes I did. So while we all know what that year was, it was also 5 years ago and baby the window trims are getting a fresh coat of colorful paint.

design by bright designlab | styling by nik nik studio | photo by george barberis

This wildly beautiful kitchen by Bright Designlab perfectly shows the organic modern MCM style and those painted window trims and beams bring the whole space together. It’s a small detail that makes a huge, wonderful difference.

design by anna haines designs | photo by paul whitbread

The painted green trim on these kitchen windows by Anna Haines Designs is equally as wonderful as the first! The personality it adds is so wonderful. I also really love that they chose the warmer color on the lower cabinetry and then went for a lighter, cooler shade for the windows which makes the room feel a little more open and taller if that makes sense.

design by sophie rowell | photo by paul whitbread

Now this pop of bright blue is so fun and adds just the right amount of whimsy to this beautiful kitchen by Sophie Rowell (also look at those knobs!). I wholeheartedly stand by this trend because it’s a beautiful and fairly simple way to make a huge visual impact.

Dark Beigephoto by tali roth | photo by lillie thompson

This could be the new “white kitchen” and I’m not mad about it. I mean when you have a kitchen like the one Tali Roth designed above, wouldn’t you want the same? It is neutral but it feels cozier than a traditional white. Now there’s nothing wrong with white but having some other neutral option is very nice.

design by meet west studio | photo by rett peek

You know what’s funny, I was just about to say how much I liked silver fixtures with dark beige, the way Tali designed hers, but then I moved on to this also stunning kitchen by Meet West Studio and thought, “Wait! I love brass too!” This clearly means all metals look great with this color family.

design by meet west studio | photo by rett peek

This angle was too pretty not to include. I adore how the cabinet color is also in the marble accent on the wall. Oh, and for the beautiful texture Olympics, what a cool thing to mix the wall marble with cement countertops and a tiled upper counter accent. All look so cool together.

design by merete coleman | photo by chaunté vaughn

While this is the lightest of the dark beiges, I am completely smitten with this custom-built and painted cabinet/fridge/freezer. The goal, according to Merete Coleman, was to make it look like a modernized Hungarian marriage armoire. The results are incredible and this one also feels like it could be in the “cupboard cabinet” trend too. A two-fer:)

Fun Stools

No reno required! All you need is a counter.

design by shapeless studio | photo by kate sears

More and more I’ve been seeing designers play with stools that are really fun. Sometimes they are in the same style of the kitchen but I really love it when they contrast a little like these burgundy beauties that Shapeless Studio used in this awesome kitchen they designed. They have a fun shape, cool, details, and are a perfect moody pop of color.

design by charlie ferrer | photo by fran parente

Now these beauties don’t contrast the design by Charlie Ferrer at all but are just as perfect. If I could take a wild guess, they look vintage to me:) All those details and mixed materials add the perfect finishing touch to this kitchen. I also love how the wall color and the leather seats of the stools match. Your eye just feels happy.

design by nainoa architecture and interiors

Another complementary stool to a wonderful kitchen design is this one by Nainoa Architecture and Interiors. These are stools they actually designed and I really love how unique they are. Picking a stool with an interesting space is usually a great bet:)

design by leyden lewis design studio

Another example of this are these stools in a beautiful kitchen by Leyden Lewis Design Studio. Since the island is open, with a lot of legs, choosing a pedestal-style stool was the perfect choice for this space. Plus they add a handmade, organic element that effortlessly contrasts the straight lines and hard angles. Stools are power players, people!

Colorful Stained Wood

Ok, this one is also VERY exciting to me. Historically, I wouldn’t have called myself a colorful stained wood lover. The ones I had seen were very intense with the grain very heavily pronounced. It just wasn’t for me. But boy have times changed and I am pretty in love with how designers have been using it. All of the examples below are different shades of green but I’ve seen it done in light and dark blue and they are equally as cool. I really feel this is on the rise.

design by ysg studio | builder: locbuild | photo by anson smart

YSG Studio is known for its incredibly creative and bold designs. This kitchen is a prime example of that. So while there are so many amazing elements I just can’t stop looking at the green-stained upper cabinets that so beautifully complement the stone.

design by bidgood | photo by mary mcneill knowles

This is a design element that like the rounded cabinets, I would have put in the “modern” design category but I was proven very wrong when I came across this unreal kitchen by Bidgood. So first off, rounded cabinetry and second, green stained wood! It has a traditional style but looks so fresh. Not to mention the light green on the walls for a little tonal moment. Heaven.

design by bright designlab | styling by nik nik studio | photo by george barberis

I thought I’d crop this photo and show you this kitchen again because look! The green cabinets are stained, not painted. I just love how gently the wood grain peeks through. 10000/10.

Dark Hardware On Dark Cabinetsdesign by ursino interiors | styling by brittany albert | photo by nicole franzen

I could only get one photo for this one but I feel that tonal hardware will be a big trend this year. I think mostly dark hardware on dark cabinets. It’s chic and simple and that’s all I have to say about that:)

Exposed Joinerydesign by rubin studio | photo by justin chung

If there’s one thing that makes my heart sing in design it’s exposed joinery. But like the kind you see in this incredible kitchen island by Rubin Studio. How could it not? It screams custom, handcrafted, and warm. I also love that it feels both modern and vintage at the same time. It’s a total win and I am so happy more designers are digging into this really special detail.

design by sarah sherman samuel | photo by daniel peter

Sarah is another one who included it in this kitchen (that yes, was already shown in this post but hey, a trend-forward kitchen is a trend-forward kitchen!) but on all of the wall cabinetry! I think this is now my dream. It’s also extremely versatile which is proven but how amazing it looks in both of these examples while the styles are totally different.

“Organic Bauhaus”lead design by patrick maziarski of beau geste interior design and counsel design group | build by meneses construction | photo by yoshihiro makino

Caitlin and I came up with this trend term together. I called her asking what she thought this thick, matte wood shelf framing would be categorized as. We threw a few ideas around and then she said, “It’s like an organic Bauhaus vibe”. I immediately agreed so here we are! I’ve been noticing this “trend” a lot in both open and closed shelving so there are options! I just love how Patrick Maziarsk designed this whole space and incorporated this cabinet feature. It’s timeless and so chic. (Also, did you notice the reed wood island?? :))

And here we are at the end. I love pulling this post together and I hope you get inspired! Or at least loved looking at the photos. Any favorites? Any thoughts (remember not everything has to be for everybody;))? Let’s chat.

Love you, mean it.

Opening Image Credits: Design by Anna Haines Designs | Photo by Paul Whitbread

The post UPDATED: The 11 Kitchen Trends Of 2025 That You’ll Want In Your Home Forever (Yes, They’re That Good) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

The Link Up: Emily’s New Favorite Affordable Vase, Caitlin’s Cluless-Inspired Closet App, And Meet Our Newest Team Member!

Happy Sunday everyone. First and foremost, the LA team got to meet our newest team member, Marlee, who you’ll hear from down below. We are so happy to have her and she’s already been an incredible addition! Did you see this post that was her pitch? Otherwise, shoots, reveals, and exciting new content are all headed your way so get ready:) Until then let’s get to these links…

This week’s house tour is the Italian/Milan-inspired Brooklyn Brownstone of Paloma Elsesser and designed by Gregory Rockwell and Hester Hodde, of Gregory Rockwell Interiors. It’s so dreamy yet livable and the lighting and art are stunning! Be sure to watch the video too:)

From Emily: We finished my best friend’s living and dining room this week and styled it mostly from affordable places we love per usual. One standout piece: this vase by Studio McGee looks so pretty (I love the shape with the flat top) and even better it’s very very easy to style flowers in it (wide body, narrow mouth). 10/10.

From Marlee: Hi all! I just wrapped up my second week on the job and feeling so good! I joined the team up here in Portland as a social media associate, which means I’ll be hanging around on projects and shoots capturing content for all things EHD. Already having so much fun and so happy to be here!

One thing to know about me is that I’m a major sucker for nostalgia – so when they added LOST back onto Netflix earlier this year I was all in. I just finished the series finale a few nights ago after many many months of binging and I can confidently say that YES the show holds up. The writing, the characters, the outfits, the cliffhangers, the romantic tension… they really don’t make TV like it anymore and I’m devastated that it’s over. Everyone says the last seasons are too weird but don’t let that stop you from watching – if you go in with an open mind it’s so worth it. 10/10!

From Caitlin: Are you tired of your closet? Do you feel like you’ve fallen out of love with your wardrobe? Are you struggling to pull together fresh outfits that make you feel great? BECAUSE I WAS, TOO. 30% of my problem was solved by a massive purge (like, a “donated half my closet” type of purge); 20% was fixed by a renewed commitment to sturdy, keep-forever basics that are easier for me to mix-and-match. But 50% of my fashion conundrum was solved by Indyx, my new favorite app! Do you remember that scene in Clueless where Cher’s closet magically helps her assemble the perfect school outfit? Indyx is the REAL WORLD version of that. I upload photos of my pieces (Indyx automatically removes the background) and then I can play around with new combinations – it’s so helpful! I can save my favorite outfits; I can plan out everything I’m going to wear in a month; I can even track the cost per wear of each piece I own – it ROCKS. I feel like I’m rediscovering my own closet! Emphatically recommend.

Also From Caitlin: PSA – our favorite Anthropologie pant now comes IN JUMPSUIT FORM and it is GOOD. (Like, “everyone you know – including several members of your local Walgreens staff – will pull you aside and tell you that you look snatched,” good.) I grabbed it as part of my Nuuly shipment – highly recommend reading their sizing reviews, as there’s not a ton of ratings on the actual Anthro site yet! – and I have a feeling that this one is going to be sticking around in my closet when I send the rest of my order back. I sized up from a 12 to a 14 and it fit PERFECTLY, even with my long torso. I wore it with a white mock neck and Sambas, but I’m excited to dress it up with some boots! Long live the jumpsuit.

From Arlyn: One of my most useful gifts from Christmas so far have been these Bose sound-cancelling headphones. In the 3 weeks I’ve had them, I’ve found myself using them almost daily, and that’s from someone who hasn’t been able to find their Airpods or earbuds in weeks. Like, I really just don’t use headphones that much, but my goodness have these been helpful especially when working in places that aren’t my home and needed quiet, even in the middle of the living room when everyone around me is talking or watching TV. I also loved them on the plane because the inside of my ear gets super achey with traditional buds after about 30 minutes or so. During moments of overstimulation, I loved going into my room, putting on my headphones in quiet mode (there’s always an aware mode so you can hear what’s going on around you when you need), playing soothing sounds, and resting. It was so revitalizing. They’re pricey but so far, VERY worth the expense.

From Mallory: I’ve only ever had one or two things from Vuori and they were both super soft and comfy but when I got these as a Christmas gift they quickly became the MOST comfortable pants I own (and it shows bc I’ve been living in them for the last few weeks). Plus they’re on sale for $49 so snag them now before they sell out!!

From Jess: Understandably, air purifiers are a top-priority purchase for Angelenos right now. So with a little research, I decided to get a Blueair purifier since it’s highly rated and has a HEPA filter (not all purifiers do so make sure the one you get does). Friends I was staying with in Orange County for the week actually had one and gifted it to me since they are moving to London next month! Talk about grateful. I did order another one since my living room and bedroom are so separate but all I can say is that it’s completely silent and pretty quickly got rid of any smoke smell in my apartment. The great thing is that they have a bunch of different versions at different price points. This is the one I was gifted and am currently using and this is the one I bought that should get here in a week.

From Gretchen: It’s been so wonderful to have a new team member up here with us in Portland (hey, Marlee!) and this week we were “on set” together at Em’s friend’s place shooting a reveal that turned out sooo charming! On shoot days, there is inevitably a list of things I’m always reaching for. I finally put together a little set day go-bag, filling this super sturdy and durable Bogg bag full of Windex wipes, safety pins, nails, command hooks–you name it! But my holy grail combo I grab for all things bedding, curtains, and clothing shoots is this steamer and this wrinkle release spray. In a pinch, the spray works great on its own to smooth out any gentle wrinkles (also dries fairly quick and smells good, too). It’s a staple I keep in my laundry arsenal at home because I grew up with a mom who swears by it. But to ensure things stay extra wrinkle-free for shoots, I like to double up. We recently upgraded our steamer for one that heats up FAST, has a nice, powerful steam stream, and gets the job done quickly. My only complaint is the steam on/off button is located where you tend to grip it, but it turns back on so easily it doesn’t really matter if you accidentally press it. You just click it again and it starts back up immediately. I do appreciate that it’s easier to “pause” it this way if you need to set it down and work on something else, then with one quick push of the button, it’s literally full steam ahead once again.

Great news! Arlyn is working on a fun post that you could personally benefit from. Here are the details:

Have a piece of furniture in your home that you know isn’t quite right (whether because of style, size or wear & tear) but not sure what to do about it? Snap a photo of the problem child and send it to us to possibly be included in an upcoming article. Be sure to send bright, clean photos (smartphone snaps are okay!) as well as some sentences on what you’re struggling with, what dimensions we’re working with and possibly what budget you have to replace it. We’ll put our EHD minds together to help you figure out how best to love it (a.k.a. a make-it-work moment) or recommendations on what to replace it with. Email arlyn@emilyhendersondesign.com by Monday, January 20.

Thank you to anyone and everyone who has in any way helped or donated to those affected by the life-shattering fires in Los Angeles. The healing and rebuilding is going to be a long journey. In case any of you have wanted to help but didn’t know a good way to here is an organization that identifies families who were already struggling before the disaster struck and puts money directly into their hands which is ultimately the best way to help. Jess was talking to a woman who lost her home and she said that as kind as all of the physical donations like clothes are, they don’t have anywhere to put or store them. So having money to buy basic essentials like underwear right now and then to have money for when housing is secured is really the most effective way to help.

Thanks for spending time with us today and again, welcome Marlee!

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Kaitlin Green | From: The Expertly-Planned River House Primary Closet Reveal

The post The Link Up: Emily’s New Favorite Affordable Vase, Caitlin’s Cluless-Inspired Closet App, And Meet Our Newest Team Member! appeared first on Emily Henderson.

Caitlin Spent 3 Weeks Traveling Across Australia & New Zealand – Here’s What to Do, What to Skip, and Where to Pet a Kangaroo

That muffled garbling you hear? IT’S ME, SAYING G’DAY. FROM THE GREAT BARRIER REEF. IN AUSTRALIA. Settle in: I’m back with my yearly travel magnum opus, DOWN UNDER EDITION. Throw on your Men at Work record and grab your Vegemite toast, because we’re (temporarily) escaping to another continent! We have kangaroos. Snorkeling. Koalas. Wombats. Wallabies. Crocodiles. Helicopters. A precarious hot air balloon ride. Architecture. Herding dogs. AND THERE’S SO MUCH MORE, GUYS.

Brenda and I are newly-returned from 3 weeks of non-stop travel across Australia and New Zealand, and today, I’m going to yap all about it. If you’re planning a trip down under, this might help! And if you’re just trying to escape reality for a bit, this will DEFINITELY help. Kangaroo photos are below… (Yes, I pet one. And no, I likely won’t ever shut up about it.) Buckle up – the day by day breakdown starts now.

everything we packed | the obligatory pre-trip selfie

December 6: We arrived at LAX with only carry-on bags in tow. This was a trip – you know, an adventure! – and as such, we travelled to a new place every 2 to 3 days. Who wants to repack and schlep a big ol’ bag around every other day? NOT THESE GALS.

We flew for 12 hours to Auckland, grabbed some airport breakfast, and caught our next 4 hour flight to Melbourne. By the time we’d landed, we traveled a whole day into the future – we were 19 whole hours ahead of LA time and 22 hours ahead of the east coast.

Melbournerelaxing after a long travel day | added to our collection of novelty photos

December 8 + 9 + 10: Before I left for Australia, several of my former coworkers issued the same warnings: “It’s a long way to go,” they said. “You’re going to feel like you’ve stepped off the plane and into Santa Monica.” And respectfully, I must reply: WHAT IS EVERYONE TALKING ABOUT?!

As an American, Melbourne is a radical experience. A totally walkable city? Free public transit in commercial districts? Clean streets? Small businesses everywhere? Free college that only needs to be paid back once you’re earning over $75,000? Covered healthcare? And it was far more afforable than several of our major American cities, to boot (though this was mainly aided by the conversion rate – $60 USD is worth $100 AUD!).

personality-filled businesses in an alley | a timeless shopping arcade

All that to say: I LOVED IT. I loved the slew of small businesses that dotted every alleyway. I loved the centuries-old arcades, peppered with petite storefronts. I loved the free tram, and the friendly people, and the thoughtfully-planned city layout. If you’re new to international travel, Melbourne would be a FABULOUS first destination.

What to See: We stayed at the Langham, right off the Yarra river in the heart of the city. I can’t recommend that location enough – it’s walkable to EVERYTHING. We loved exploring the CBD (“central business district” – a very popular descriptor outside of America!), were particularly fond of The Block Arcade, and had a blast at the Queen Victoria Market. (Grab a bite from one of the specialty vendors first, then head outside to walk the aisles – if you love a flea market or swap meet, this will be right up your alley.) The Shrine of Remembrance and Botanical Gardens are also really beautiful, if you have time!

What to Skip: The Skydeck at the Eureka Tower. If you’ve been to the top of a tall building, I’m sure you can imagine what this is like. Your ears will pop on the elevator, though, which is always fun.

Uluruflying over uluru | the australian outback from above

December 11 + 12: After 3 days in Melbourne, we board a 3 hour flight to the heart of the Australian outback. We’re on our way to Uluru – formerly known as Ayers Rock – and the scenery is breathtaking.

uluru lit up during sunset | cheers!!!!

We hopped off the plane and headed straight to Uluru, a massive 550-million-year-old sandstone monolith. It’s a sacred spot for the indigenous Anangu people – located nearly 300 miles from the nearest town – and it’s magnificent. It feels holy. That night, we gathered to watch the rock change colors as the sun set. This was the place Brenda was most excited to visit and I’ve gotta hand it to her: she was right. Uluru is incredible.

mutitjulu watering hole | art by joy jackson

I’m going to get real with you for a second: the bugs are out of control. It’s not a myth or an exaggeration! Upon opening our hotel closet, we discovered 2 robes and a huge can of flying insect spray; I found ants in my bed; I will spare you a photo of insects feasting on a huge dead bug in our room. Outside is even worse – the next morning, when we embarked on a quick hike to the Mutitjulu Watering Hole, our tour guide handed out netted face masks. (We were in the minority who didn’t wear them, if that’s any indication of how many freakin’ bugs are out there.)

But it didn’t matter – we had such an incredible experience here. Uluru has been a meeting place for the Anangu for millennia, so the energy is wonderful. We stopped in to Walkatjara Art at the Cultural Center and I bought this piece by Joy Jackson – I can’t wait to get it framed!

What to See: Uluru, obviously. The cultural center is absolutely worth your time (just leave the camera – no photos allowed!). And if you want to buy art, buy it in Uluru! Your payment will go directly to the artist.

What to Skip: We only spent one night here. And honestly, after watching the bug buffet next to my bed, I think one night is likely enough.

Cairns, Daintree, & The Great Barrier Reefwhy is this the only static photo i took?!

December 13 + 14 + 15: After our morning jaunt, we hopped on a 3 hour flight to Cairns. We landed in the middle of major storm, so we nixed our rainforest gondola plans (we had been hoping to ride the Sky Rail Cableway!) and then caught a 2 hour bus ride to the Daintree Rainforest. We lucked into a room at the Silky Oaks Lodge, an indoor/outdoor hotel right on the Mossman River. It’s buried in the middle of the rainforest and so unbelievable that I forgot to take photos. (At least I was living in the moment, I guess.) The A/C barely worked; the power went out; bugs filled the tub – DIDN’T MATTER. It was extraordinary. I’d do anything to go back!!!

how many fish can you spot?

The next day, I checked a massive dream off my miles-long bucket list: we got to snorkel at the Great Barrier Reef. THREE TIMES, GUYS! I’m still pinching myself. We visited three different sites – The Botanic Gardens, The Paddocks, and The Chapel – and it was otherworldly. I only wish my GoPro could capture better colors!

absolutely stunning | the size of that clam shell!!!

But as it turns out, December is high jellyfish season. We did have to wear special protective suits that covered everything (that’s why I look so beautiful in the opener to this post, clearly), but I’d do it again in a heartbeat. If you’re interested in snorkeling but worried about your skill level, don’t fret – you can still wear a life jacket! I’d HIGHLY recommend this to anyone and everyone.

we loved ballooning! | watching a balloon from our balloon

The next day, we woke up at 3 AM for a long drive down to Mareeba. This was a surprise from Brenda, and it was WONDERFUL. We hopped in our balloon for what was supposed to be a 30 minute ride during sunset, but our balloon had other thoughts – we soared above the bush for over an hour before “bomb landing” (their term, not ours) in a field surrounded by power lines. We braced in our spots and prepared to tip over as balloon staff worked to physically push our basket into a safer spot. (One truck may or may not have been lost in a ditch in the mad dash to make it to our landing site.)

Would I do it again? ABSO-FREAKIN’-LUTELY. I think you should, too! (Just don’t try it in America – it only requires 20 hours of training here, compared to more than 50 in Australia. We were in super capable hands, despite traveling farther than anticipated!)

a grey kangroo | the cutest wombat

YEAH, I KNOW. We’re finally getting to the good stuff!!! The next day, we packed our bags and hit the road. Our first stop? Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. Is a crocodile terrorizing your farm? Send him to Hartley’s. Croc eat your cow? Hartley’s. Croc seemingly having health trouble? Off to Hartley’s!

Hartley’s also takes care of a number of grey kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, koalas, snakes, birds. We scored an invite to their kangaroo and wallaby enclosure, where I FELL IN LOVE.

a curious kangaroo | a friendly wallaby

GET A LOAD OF THESE BABIES! Their tiny teeth! Their silly hands! Their unbridled curiosity! I’ve been so lucky to meet so many different animals this year – wild horses in Argentina, seals in Mexico, penguins in Antarctica – and every time, I’m left feeling a renewed commitment to our planet as a whole. We gotta keep things nice for these little guys, you know? (I posted a video of some of these roos on my Instagram – a photo doesn’t do them justice!)

snuggling a python | meeting a baby crocodile

My love of animals extends to reptiles, too. If you’ve ever dreamed of snuggling a Python (this was wonderful – it was about a million degrees with a trillion percent humidity, so he felt like a giant ice pack!) or embracing a baby crocodile (hold right under the jaw to keep them safe!), Hartley’s is worth a stop.

hagrid the croc | a chillin’ koala

We also met this nice crocodile, Hagrid (fittingly named for his enormous size), and spent some one-on-one time with a this Koala.

What to See: The Great Barrier Reef wins this one.

What to Skip: I LOVED every single thing we did in Tropical North Queensland. No complaints! No skips! I’ll happily go back. My only word of advice? Don’t go to Hartley’s immediately before heading to the airport – we spent our 3 hour flight to Sydney drenched in sweat.

Sydneyflying in to sydney | the harbour bridge at night

December 15 + 16 + 17: BUT MAN, LOOK AT THIS PLACE! Sydney, you are officially my favorite city in the world. The flight in was incredible – get a load of the bridge and the Opera House! – and we were THRILLED to discover that our hotel had a stunning view of the Harbour Bridge. (When we opened the door to our room the first time, the curtains magically pulled back to reveal our fantastic view. The curtains never opened or shut on their own again – just the one time, when we first walked in – which makes it feel even more special.

inside the sydney opera house

The next day, we woke up early for a tour of the Opera House. If you’re an architecture dork (guilty as charged!), this is a MUST-DO. I’d never seen any photos of the inside, and it BLEW ME AWAY. It’s a revelation. Total mastery of engineering and design. And it has such a fraught history, too!

in front of the harbour bridge | meeting a seagull patrol dog

After our tour, we hopped on a small boat for an afternoon sail through the Harbour. This is worth it!!! We eventually stopped for dinner near the Opera House and met a handful of Seagull Patrol dogs – they’re contracted by the city to protect people from pesky flying thieves. The handlers have a blast; the dogs have a blast; local businesses no longer need to extend refunds for spoiled food; and tourists (like us!) love seeing the pups at work.

i far prefer these to the “great white zone” signs on cape cod, TBH

The next day, we walked through historic Sydney (which, again, looks NOTHING LIKE SANTA MONICA – it puts LA to shame!) before catching a ferry to the town of Manly. I’d hoped to swim while Brenda relaxed on the beach, but our plans were foiled by a hammerhead shark. (Note that the native Australians swimming in the background do not seem to be particularly worried.)

What to See: Do ALL the tourist stuff. I know it’s corny, but it’s worth it. Sydney is a rapidly-growing world-class city with stellar public transit, entertainment, dining, and architecture – I’ve never been so impressed. (Can I move?)

What to Skip: You can climb the Harbour Bridge…but you’ll be strapped into a thick body suit on top of your clothes, it’s wise to avoid it in the middle of summer. (Alternatively, grab a sunrise or evening slot.)

Wellingtoncan you spot my loud luggage? | the wellington cable car

December 18 + 19: We departed Sydney early on the 18th and caught a – you guessed it! – 3 hour flight to Wellington, New Zealand. It’s worth noting that the customs and security experience on the bottom half of the planet is SO MUCH BETTER than ours. Laptops stay in bags! Shoes stay on feet! And somehow, after nearly 2 decades, New Zealand airport security agents were the ONLY PEOPLE to ever spot and examine Brenda’s travel scissors.

relevant design details

The next 48 hours are a total blur – it was windy. It was wet. We were freezing – so much so that we needed to buy layers! – but we loved Wellington. (James Cameron and Peter Jackson call it home for a reason!) I was particularly charmed by the vernacular design details – the sweet manhole covers; the thoughtful bollards; even the crossing signs featured images of the Haka! (A quick clip is on my Instagram – I just loved it.)

the kombucha mother | cassowary predecessors

We embarked on a quick walking food tour of the city, and I need to highlight a favorite: the KB Kombucha Tap Room. Y’all, I love Kombucha. I’ve tried them all! But this kombucha is NEXT LEVEL – smooth and flavorful, without the acidic/sour bite that all my friends whine about. If you’re a food and beverage importer, PLEASE BRING THIS TO AMERICA. I will buy $5 bottles until the end of time.

We closed our time in Wellington with a trip to the Te Papa Museum, which is BY FAR the best interactive museum I’ve ever visited. The staff is so passionate about sharing their knowledge and the exhibits are fresh and engaging (think “a real-life giant squid you can walk around” and “a life-size whale heart model for kids to climb in”).

What to See: Te Papa Museum! I could have spent a whole day here, if time allowed. Peter Jackson (of Lord of the Rings fame) produced some of the exhibits, so the production value is extraordinary. Cuba Street is great for galleries, vintage stores, cafes, etc. And do some shopping, too – the conversion rate is AMAZING. ($1 USD = $1.81 NZD!)

What to Skip: The wind and weather rained on our parade here, so we left a lot unexplored. Drop your tips in the comments, please!

Blenheim & Marlborough houses in marlborough sound

December 20 + 21: We woke up on the morning of the 20th to a special treat: our travel plans had fallen through, and we would now be taking a tiny propeller plane on a 30 minute flight to the South Island. It was windy, terrifying, and SO MUCH FUN.

We landed and immediately drove to Picton, a small tourist town on the shores of Marlbourough Sounds. We boarded a boat (spoiler: we are on a boat nearly every day for the rest of the trip) and took a lunchtime cruise through the Sounds. I couldn’t get over the beautiful homes dotting the coast, and we met a handful of locals who were kayaking home after grabbing coffee in town. Can you imagine living here and kayaking for your morning coffee? WHAT A DREAM.

balancing my wine consumption with coke zero | fresh green mussels

The food on our boat was FABULOUS. Our captain prepared the best salmon I’ve ever had – not joking, I’m still thinking about it! – and we snacked on huge, local green mussels with soy and chili sauce as we sailed past stunning homes and massive fauna. (Since we were in Marlborough, the local Sauvignon Blanc was flowing, too.) After lunch, we tossed leftover mussels back into the water and watched as swarms of blue cod emerged from the depths to feed.

adorable (and cuddly – i tested!) herding dogs

The next morning, we made our way to Kaituna Ridges, a working sheep farm in Blenheim. We were greeted by not one, not two, but NINE friendly herding dogs – it felt like heaven. The owners, Freddie and Nikita, are a bit younger than me (!!!) and I’m SO IMPRESSED by the incredible business they’ve built. (I was also awed by these dogs, who made quick work of the rugged mountain terrain.)

sheep shearing | buff has claimed my blanket

We arrived amidst sheep shearing season, so Freddie graciously showed us how it’s done. I was so taken by the entire process that I splurged on this 100% lambswool blanket, made from wool sheared in this exact spot! It’s an incredible souvenir that has been claimed by Buffalo – she loves it. I’m so, so, so pleased to have such a precious (and functional) memento! Sign up for their mailing list to get a notification when their online store launches!

at wither hills | a boat/plane hybrid at the omaka museum

That afternoon, we popped into Wither Hills Winery for lunch. I felt like I was in a Windows 95 screensaver – the landscape was STUNNING (and the Sauvignon Blanc was phenomenal – you can grab it locally at a great price! It’s absolutely my new go-to bottle for dinner parties and host gifts). That evening, we found ourselves dining amongst Peter Jackson’s plane collection at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Museum.

What to See: Marlborough Sounds, and as many wineries as you’re able to fit in (they’re world-famous for a reason). You’ll also be surrounded by sheep – take an afternoon to visit a working farm! (Or tell Kaituna Ridges I sent you – you couldn’t support nicer folks.)

What to Skip: I’m not a big war gal, so the Omaka experience was lost on me. If you’re into aviation or battle, you might love it! But I’d prioritize enjoying the beautiful scenery outdoors.

Te Anau & Milford Soundthe forest outside the caves | a map of the cave system

December 22 + 23: We slept in a bit on the 22nd before catching a 90 minute flight to Tea Anau, a tiny town on the South Island. Brenda is a trooper, so she agreed to catch a ferry with me so we could crawl through a cave (not a joke) in an attempt to see glowworms.

If you’re not familiar, glowworms are exactly what they sound like – tiny, glowing cave dwellers that light up. I’ve always wanted to see some in real life – they’ve been on my bucket list for years! – and I’m not being hyperbolic when I say that experiencing them firsthand was akin to a religious experience. (This National Geographic video might help you visualize a bit better – fast forward to :54 for the full glow experience.)

We weren’t allowed to take photos in the cave (it’s dark, dangerous, and you need your eyes to adjust!) but I’ll never forget the sight of millions of tiny specks of light shining on every surface. It felt like floating in space. I could only think about the people who came before me – how magical and holy must this cave have felt with nothing but a torch? They must have thought they’d found a path to the stars. (The Te Anau glowworm cave was actually re-discovered in 1948 – an explorer read a Maori legend about a cave filled with glowing light; he searched for 3 years until he found it.)

a fun pit stop | a breathtaking view

The next morning, we made an iconic 2 hour drive to the Milford Sound. You can get here by helicopter, plane, car, or boat, but we really enjoyed our bus ride.

seals basking on the rocks | a huge waterfall

Milford Sound is STUNNING. Full stop. It’s packed with waterfalls, cliff faces, and even a few friendly seals. When we returned to Te Anau, we popped in to the local cinema – built by the town’s helicopter magnate – and watched a quick film on the Sound (there’s a shot of the above waterfall at the 1 minute mark that’ll take your breath away). We’d been awed by the experience in the water, but seeing it from the air on the big screen put everything into perspective. (That waterfall, for example, is 3 times as tall as Niagara Falls!)

What to See: GLOWWORM CAVE. This was by far my favorite experience, and nothing comparable exists anywhere else in the world. Go!!! (Full disclosure: if you’re claustrophobic or scared of being deep inside a cave, you will want to skip this. It did cross my mind that an earthquake could trap us, but that thought was replaced by pure wonder as soon as I spotted glowworms.)

What to Skip: You may be tempted to splurge on a flight to Milford Sound – don’t! The drive is absolutely worth the time.

Queenstownpeaches and cheese – stellar | 3 paragliders above our hotel

December 24 + 25: HELLO, I HAVE THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS ITINERARY FOR YOU! This was the best Christmas of my life (and that’s saying something – I’ve had some great holidays!).

On the 24th, we drove along the shores of Lake Wakatipu on our way to Queenstown. We stopped in for lunch at Kinross Winery, who prepared a meal so fabulous that I need to write about it here. THOSE PEACHES! The wine pairings! I loved it.

We arrived in Queenstown and discovered a bevy of paragliders right outside our hotel window – I couldn’t have been more charmed. Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand for a reason (as we were about to discover).

lupine on the mountainside | a plane over the mountain range

We hopped on a gondola and made our way to the top of Bob’s Peak, which was only a quick jaunt from our hotel. I loved all the lupine, which dotted every roadway and mountainside. (Legend says that a bored housewife thought the scenery was boring, so she handed out seed packets everywhere she went to beautify the land.) There’s lots to do up top – go karting, restaurants, gift shops, etc. – but we loved soaking in the view. Check out that airplane flying just over the mountain peak!

at some LOTR site | above the shotover river, where we boated

I was woken on Christmas morning by Brenda throwing me a festive shirt and a pair of reindeer ears. We embarked on a treacherous drive to Skippers Canyon, which was correctly described to us as “a little bumpy, not to mention scary!!!” (emphasis theirs). If you’ve ever dreamed of driving on a narrow one-way road that’s been blown into the side of a mountain with no security rails, Skippers’ Canyon is right up your alley!!!

We survived, though, and made our way down to the Shotover River for a morning of jet boating. If you’ve never been on a jet boat before, I’ll sum it up like this: IT’S CRAZY. Imagine a speed boat that can drift like a car, spin on a dime and travel over rocks. I spent the entire ride convinced that my skull was about to be cracked open (but, like, in the fun way). We both LOVED it. (I’ll post a video on my Instagram for context.)

inside the helicopter | outside the helicopter

After our terrifying 2 hour morning drive, Brenda and I – two traditionally helicopter-averse women – were thrilled to take a 15 minute helicopter ride back into Queenstown. It was my first time riding in one, and it was surreal – IT WAS CHRISTMAS! We were in NEW ZEALAND! We were riding in a freakin’ HELICOPTER!

we felt VERY american

We kept our celebration going with a fancy Christmas meal at an absolutely packed McDonalds, which was the only open restaurant in Queenstown. A Christmas we’ll never forget, indeed I don’t know if any holiday will ever be able to top this one, honestly.

What to See: There are tons of jet boat experiences available in New Zealand – Skippers’ Canyon is a cut above the rest. (The river makes for a more fun experience – skip the ones on lakes or in open water.) The town is easy to navigate on foot, too – give yourself a day to walk around!

What to Skip: Kiwi Park. We did see a Kiwi, but the experience is tainted by folks who can’t seem to put their phone away. (Kiwis are nocturnal, so they’re shown in a darkened room.) I loved seeing their Tuataras, though!

Auckland & Waiheke Island

December 26 + 27 + 28: The next day, we grabbed a 3 hour flight to Auckland. I took no photos and do not remember most of what happened, outside of eating pasta near a beach. I chalk this up to exhaustion and/or too much dopamine. Maybe both, TBH.

a lookout point on waiheke | the dining room at mudbrick – we sat next to the window!

On the 27th, we hopped on a ferry to Waiheke Island. Our guide, a former sommelier, filled us in on all the local haunts. We stopped at The Heke Distillery for a whiskey and beer tasting before heading to Mudbrick Winery for lunch. Y’all, MUDBRICK IS STUNNING. I’ve been to a handful of stunning wineries in California – Sonoma, Napa, Paso Robles, Temecula, you name it – but none hold a candle to this hilltop dream with views of Auckland in the distance.

vitrine | european antiques

On our final day in Auckland, I dragged Brenda to a handful of vintage and antique stores. I gotta hand it to you Australians and New Zealanders – you value your time off! Nearly every storefront had a “closed for the holidays,” “closed til January 6th,” or “closed til January 13th” sign out front. Luckily, we found a few great spots! I really enjoyed a store called Vitrine, in particular – the curation was fantastic. It felt like an Olive Ateliers for New Zealand!

my third and final souvenir

I ended up grabbing this vintage…sculptural object? Vessel? Wooden thing? (I’m going to be honest – I have NO IDEA what it is, if you couldn’t tell) in a store that I did not take the name of. I think 3 weeks of travel melted my brain a bit! But I can’t wait to shoot my bedroom – this piece will be holding court on my brass dresser alongside the UFO-shaped vessel I grabbed at Downtown Modernism. It was meant to be

What to See: I’m not exaggerating when I say that nearly everything in Auckland was (rightfully) closed. So, uh, keep that in mind if you’re ever planning your Christmas travel, you know?

What to Skip: We skipped almost everything (again, not necessarily by choice!) and still had a great time.

our obligatory return flight selfie | brenda heading back to the east coast

That night – 12/28 – we caught an 8 PM flight back to LA. Our arrival time? 11 AM, 12/28. We travelled into the past! Brenda and I spent the day napping in my apartment, and I dropped her off at LAX early the next morning for her return flight back to the east coast. WE DID IT! We spent 25 straight days together within 10 feet of one another! And we still love each other!!!

As we travelled, I heard one comment more frequently than any other: “It’s so nice that you’re spending this time together! I could never convince my kids to come on a long trip like that with me.” To which I say: yes, it is nice! But honestly, there’s no one I’d rather travel with. Brenda is patient, funny, kind, smart, and so easy to spend time with – I’d go on a million month-long trips with her! We didn’t start traveling internationally together until 2022, but each trip we’ve taken has been longer (and better!) than the last. I hit the jackpot when I landed her as my mom!!! (Shoutout Brenda! See you soon!)

But I also hit the jackpot when I started working at EHD. I have the most generous boss (thank you, Em, for letting me go on these crazy adventures!), and the most supportive coworkers who have my back and who covered for me without a second thought. I just feel so grateful for it all, you know? The stars (or glowworms?) really aligned. I’m the luckiest girl in the world.

I guess that’s where I’ll leave you – my master guide of everything I loved in Australia and New Zealand. Any other tips? Any places I should hit next time? (I have to go back.) Anyone in Sydney or Melbourne or Tropical North Queensland wanna trade apartments for a month? Any other travel stories, mother-daughter travel stories, or general questions/complaints? LET’S TALK ABOUT IT! xxxxx

The post Caitlin Spent 3 Weeks Traveling Across Australia & New Zealand – Here’s What to Do, What to Skip, and Where to Pet a Kangaroo appeared first on Emily Henderson.

13 Great And Practical Decor Pieces That Are REALLY On Sale (Like Up To 70% Off)

January poses a little conundrum. Our wallets are recovering from a big spending month yet we want our homes to feel fresh, put together, and of course, organized. What does Emily always repeat that a reader once commented? “Without systems, there is chaos.” Thankfully, Wayfair is giving us a big ole sale on their clearance section (we’re talking up to 70% off AND fast shipping) to help those of us wanting/needing help to refresh, put together, and organize our homes…at a MUCH more helpful price. We got a little sneak peek into their Weekend Clearance sale list and picked out 13 of our favorites. Let’s show you!

Mini Mudroom/Entry Open Storage

If you are in need of a “mudroom” or are simply yearning for a more organized entry with a little farmhouse vibe, this storage piece could be a perfect fit!! It very much reminds me of the mudroom cabinet we shot for Emily’s friend but at a fraction of the cost. This one is $275.99 from $509.99. It’s simple but has special details and it also comes in three other colors.

Arched Storage Bookcase

Be still my heart! I love this style of cabinet/bookcase so much. The arched shape makes it feel so special and it can work so many different styles seamlessly. And look at that sweet paneling in the back! This isn’t a crazy affordable piece but it is heavily discounted if you’ve been looking for something like it. This would elevate any room!

Wire Baskets

In case you don’t think of Wayfair for small things like baskets, now is the time to change that! These chic wire baskets can work in a kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, office, playroom, you name it. And because they are so classic, they are something that you can and will keep for a long time. These were originally $28.99 and now are basically 50% off! Great for your organizing goals.

Kohler Single Handle Pull Down Kitchen Faucet

In case you haven’t noticed we LOVE Kohler. Their products are beautiful and so well made. We also know that pull-down faucets are very popular with y’all because they are consistently on our best-seller list. So having a beautiful Kohler pull-down faucet on sale is a dream combo! It’s currently over $100 off and also comes in three other finishes.

Tall Apron Under-Mount Single-Bowl Kitchen Sink

And speaking of Kohler, Wayfair also has this awesome apron sink for almost $400 off! Classic, beautiful, and comes in 10 other colors, even green!! I want to go to a kitchen with a green sink in it so bad now.

GE ENERGY STAR French Door Refrigerator

Another item you might not think of Wayfair first is appliances like fridges but that should change too! They have a ton and one is this HIGHLY-RATED French door fridge. Did I mention it’s also $400 off and fingerprint-resistant?? Pretty tempting if you have a fridge on the fritz. It also comes in three other colors!

Staub Ceramics 3-Piece Baking Dish Set

My jaw nearly dropped to the floor when I saw the price on these. That’s right, you can get three Staub baking dishes for under $100. This denim blue is so pretty and very EHD but they have three other colors to choose from too!

Brown Dining Chairs (Set of 4)

If you’ve been dining chair shopping you know they are so pricey right now!! Luckily, Wayfair has these awesome chairs for under $100 each which is a huge deal right now. They are the perfect mix of modern and vintage-inspired. Oh, and they also come in six other colors!

Rattan Stools (Set of 2)

The same goes for stools. The majority on the market are pricey so when really cute ones like these pop up for under $200 for the set it’s very exciting! The mix of texture on this one is so good and it also comes in all black.

Single Bathroom Vanity With Marble Top

Over the past few years, bathroom vanities have also been a top seller for us. So when I saw this little cutie I knew I had to let y’all know! It’s highly rated, comes in three other colors, and everything you see is included except the faucet. Did I mention it’s almost $500 off?

Double Bathroom Vanity with Engineered Stone Top

For those of you looking for a larger vanity with double sinks, here you are! It comes fully assembled (as does the one above, YAY!) and the sinks are included too. This is a great modern farmhouse look that’s neutral but not boring. It comes in two other color options and is almost $1,400 off!

Upholstered Platform Bed

Need a bed with a big presence but a small price tag?? This could be your bed! For under $300, this bed is upholstered, tall, and has real cute legs if you want to show them off. Emily is a big proponent of upholstered beds too, in case you were curious:) It also comes in three other color options!

MCM-Inspired TV Stand

Affordable and cute TV stands are another item that can be tough to find. But if you have a modern style, this cutie could be your match! Love that it has both open and closed storage, a vintage feel, and can handle a TV up to 50″. It also comes in two other colors and is under $200:)

Hope this was helpful and if you are still on the hunt for more affordable items, the Wayfair Weekend Clearance Sale will have A LOT for you to check out. Enjoy!

Love you, mean it.

Opening Image Credits: Design by Pricilla Frost | Styled by Emily Henderson | Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: My Best Friend’s Basement Makeover – Starting With The Budget-Friendly Mudroom Reveal

The post 13 Great And Practical Decor Pieces That Are REALLY On Sale (Like Up To 70% Off) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

The 2025 Tile Trend That Caitlin Wants You To Consider

You know how good ideas are often kind of obvious in hindsight? Like sliced bread, or basketball nets (they used to be literal baskets – someone had to climb up and grab the ball every time!), or can openers? Well, today’s tile pattern falls into that category for me. Hear me out: I think it’s high time we gave plaid tile its fair shake.

OKAY, OKAY. I can hear your scoff from here. Indulge me! We’ve seen striped tile; stacked tile; checkered tile – why not plaid? It’s timeless (literally – some estimate that the tartan pattern is over 3,000 years old!), it’s unexpected, and it feels like a breath of fresh air. Below, you’ll find 19 design-forward spaces that nail the look – take a peek and let me know what you think. Are you mad for plaid, or is this better left for the pages of our favorite design magazines? I NEED TO KNOW. But first, let’s talk about all the magic things plaid tile can do…

It Creates A Sense Of Place

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CABIN. WOODS. LUMBERJACK. CAMPFIRE. FLANNEL. Did I guess right? Were those the first things that came to mind when you saw this mountain retreat by Noz Nozowa? (“Oh my god, that’s a really loud bathroom” might be up there, too.) But that’s the best part about this buffalo check surround – it creates such a specific sense of place. I mean, can’t you just picture yourself sinking into a steaming tub after a long day of chopping lumber?

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Let’s say you’re setting up a wine bar in San Francisco. You want it to feel familiar and cozy and safe, like walking into a memory. Enter: this patterned linoleum floor, which instantly transports guests to (a) their favorite 1950s diner or (b) their 1970s dive bar or even (c) their high school auditorium. It’s comforting without being overt or overpowering.

It Adds “Oomph” In A Neutral Space

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White cabinets. Quartz counters. A butcher block island. Stainless steel appliances. If it sounds like I’m describing your kitchen, it’s probably because I am (albeit unintentionally). And you’re in good company, too – my mom has the same setup in my childhood home. It’s a classic combination for a reason! But the simple addition of plaid tiled walls elevates this kitchen from everyday to extraordinary. (The beautiful photos by Key don’t hurt, either.)

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GENIUS use of pattern. Hear me out: imagine this floor in wood! It’d emphasize the unique shape of the kitchen, and the uniformity would make the space feel unfinished – you’d want to see some sort of art or small table to fill in the negative space on the left. But in plaid…it’s perfect.

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WELL, DANG. That’s one way to make a first impression! In a room full of stunners (The trim! The leaded glass! The Murano pendant! The oak door!), this mosaic floor takes the cake. Totally show-stopping. Totally timeless. It transforms the whole entry, don’t you think?

It Creates Flow

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Want to add a smidge of color? Perhaps I can interest you in about ~40 sky-hued tiles dispersed amongst an earthy plaid floor. They’re subtle enough to blend in, but they could also serve as a jumping-off point for a more saturated paint color should this family ever be interested in a bathroom refresh.

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A post shared by ELIZABETH HAY DESIGN (@elizabethhaydesign)

How good is that pop of plaid? If you’re working to connect rooms with bold, disparate color schemes (I’m looking at you, orange and navy!), consider tiling your hallway in a complementary plaid hue. The hard finishes here makes this space feel FAR more polished and intentional than a plaid rug, too. (I’m filing this one away for my own future use.)

It Balances Monochromatic Color Schemes

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This cascading tile is so stunning that I bet you didn’t notice that nearly EVERY OTHER VERTICAL SURFACE is cladded in wood. (I’ll give you a second to scroll back up and peek in the mirror. You see that back wall? All oak, baby.) It’s a symbiotic relationship: the unexpected tile freshens up the wood walls; the timeless pattern brings gravitas to the on-trend warm-toned walls.

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A post shared by Sally Rhys Jones / Rhys Jones Interior Design (@sally_rhys_jones)

Talk about balance! The neutral floor brings a utilitarian, functional edge to this twee wallpaper (donned with adorable dog illustrations, FYI) and saccharine front door. And let’s be real: if this floor works with baby pink, it’ll work with ANYTHING.

It Softens Traditional Spaces

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Lovers of traditional design styles often find themselves navigating the tightrope walk between “too precious” and “too casual.” You’ve designed a beautiful home – how can you signify that it’s livable? You guessed it: PLAID FLOOR. (Friendly, kind-eyed dogs and whimsical floral arrangements don’t hurt, either.)

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I’ll take one of these, please. Shaker cabinet fronts, a big farmhouse sink, a beautiful bridge faucet…and a sweet, unexpected floor that says “Hey, I know how to do color in an elevated way.” That combination is DIVINE – I can only imagine how dynamic this space is when it’s styled with warm wooden trays and cheery yellow flowers!

It Can Transform A “White Box”

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Ah – the dreaded “white box.” (Read: a room with no inherent architectural detail.) Some folks love a white box; others, like myself, feel overwhelmed by the possibilities. In this case, a coat of limewash paint, a patterned floor, and beautiful stone detailing transform this bathroom from builder-grade box to architectural marvel.

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NOW WE’RE TALKING. Is there trim? No! Is there moulding? No! Did anyone even think to check? No! WHITE BOX, TRANSFORMED. (But seriously – the commitment to the grid pattern – even in the trashcan! – is inspiring. May we all find such a strong design point of view in our own homes.)

It Offers Vintage Charm

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Well, this is adorable. Imagine: you enter through the Dutch door on a warm spring afternoon. “This couldn’t possibly be cuter,” you’d think, walking towards the duck egg island. And then, you’d see it: the world’s sweetest stove niche. I WOULD SIMPLY FAINT. What a delightful surprise in a home filled with original details!

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I’ve heard that a picture is worth a thousand words, and for the most part, I think that’s true. The exception? THIS picture, which is worth an entire novel’s worth of words. (From here on out, I will be imagining this kitchen in every mid-century home I pass.)

It Adds Big Impact (Even With A Little Footprint)

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For years, we’ve told you to play with the design in your powder room. Try a loud wallpaper! Try a bold paint color! But NOT ONCE have we suggested a mosaic tile floor – the injustice ends today. How fresh is this?! The blue tones are SO good – these tiles will be easy to pair with a number of other colors, should any future residents wish to install the aforementioned loud wallpaper/bold paint/traditional powder room ephemera.

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Oh, hello. I didn’t expect to run into you here in this LITERAL DOLLHOUSE COME TO LIFE. How much charm does this gingham backsplash bring to this kitchen? Seriously – imagine the same photo with a simple white zellige or a stacked subway tile. It’s a tiny design choice that transforms the look and feel of the room as a whole. MAGICAL.

It Creates A Budget-Friendly Statement

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The best part about plaid tile? IT’S BUDGET-FRIENDLY. Let me rephrase: it can be budget-friendly. Almost all of the above floors and backsplashes were crafted from simple combinations of 2″x2″ or 4″x4″ tiles. As a lover of printed concrete tile, there’s something liberating about realizing that I can DIY my own patterns!

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One more tip: ask your favorite tile manufacturer or retailer if there are deals to be found on seconds, scraps, or overstock product. Plaid tile will require at least 3 different shades, which means that you may only need a box or two of each color you select – this opens you up to a whole WORLD of discounted tile. You might be able to land yourself a tiled statement wall for less than the cost of a standard wall!

Alright – the tile you’ve seen runs the gamut. WHAT SAY YOU? Is this a trend for us normal gals, or is it too much? I know which side I’m on – what do you think? xx

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Tessa Neustadt | From: How Our New Laundry Room Came Together

The post The 2025 Tile Trend That Caitlin Wants You To Consider appeared first on Emily Henderson.

Need Inspiration To Reinvent Your Home This Year? These 9 Under The Radar (& Designer Loved!) Stores Should Help

New year, new you, new…home? While that’s not really how I personally operate, there is something about the start of a fresh January that makes you assess *something* about yourself. For today’s article, and because this is a design blog, let’s imagine it is, in fact, your home you’re sprucing up. And if you’re anything like me, when it comes time to zhuzh, you find that your go-to sources might feel as tired as the parent of a newborn. Stale as a bag of Cheerios left open for a week.

Where do you go? Where do you find inspiration? What new-to-you shops might offer the chance to reinvent a little slice of your life (or find a whole new look for all of it, if that’s what you want)? Boy oh boy do I have a treat for you if you’re of this mind currently. Because yes, strolling through the home goods section at Target is fun, but when you’ve seen one neutral Hearth & Hand vase, you’ve kind of seen them all.

I’ve been sitting on a list of housewares and decor shops that I don’t hear being talked about nearly enough, and it’s time to share them. Sure, this gathering could be nearly endless because there are so many wonderful style purveyors out there, but these are a handful that are speaking to me as of late. Some are pipe-dream price points (like Gubi) and fun to imagine shopping at, but others are great spots to hit up for that one or two special little things you feel your room could use. Maybe it’s a splurgy wooden hook for your entryway to finally have a spot to hang your bags or coats when you get home (you know, instead of draping over the back of your sofa), or a ceramic catch-all that might be just as perfect as a salt cellar in your kitchen.

Sometimes, even one small, special addition can make you feel like an entirely different person living in your home in a whole new way. A new set of scalloped dinner plates or those ramen bowls you’ve been eyeing could open the door to feeling the itch to *finally* having friends over for a proper dinner party.

Let’s take a look.

Città

Prices: $$

I’ve made no secret of my love for all things design hailing from Australia and New Zealand. Città comes from our stylish Kiwi friends. I first found it advertised to me on Facebook (ugh), and I was instantly drawn to all their beautiful throws and pillows in great colors. Everything ships from NZ, so keep that in mind as you wait for your order (this isn’t next-day delivery on Amazon, after all), but good things come to those who wait on DHL…that’s the saying, right?

Top: The Design Chaser x Città Terrace Vase, $149 | Solis Waffle Picnic Blanket, $219 | Flex Wall Hook, $70
Bottom: Anni Tea Towel, $35 | Cascade Tealight Holder, $29 | Barragán Cushion Cover, $155

I’m especially smitten with the minimal patchwork vibe of that cushion cover and those crescent-shaped wall hooks. And while the throw says “picnic blanket” in the name, it can definitely be used inside on your couch (and it might end up there in my home). And for anyone who doesn’t really love overly fussy dining room centerpieces, a smattering of these pretty colored glass tealight holders might be just the thing.

Gubi

Prices: $$$$

File this one under “It’s nice to dream” or “I’m willing to save up for that one splurge every now and then.” Gubi is known both for carrying archive designs from the 20th century (think Bill Curry, Gianfranco Frattini, and Gio Ponti), and high-end contemporary designs. It’s very Italian modern vibes, and pricey, but this is legacy stuff. Collector pieces you have forever, not decor you picked up to satisfy the need of trying out a trend.

Top: Matégot Bowl By Mathieu Matégot, $299 | Vanity Wall Mirror 2 By GamFratesi, $1,299 | Aspide Table Lamp By Gianfranco Frattini, $799
Bottom: Multi-Lite Portable Lamp By Louis Weisdorf, $499 | Matégot Flower Pot By Mathieu Matégot, $179 | MR01 Initial Lounge Chair By Mathias Rasmussen, $2,999

Cedar & Hyde Mercantile

Prices: $$$

Cedar & Hyde has a (gorgeous) storefront in Boulder, Colorado, but thankfully, you can access their posh home goods online, too. They sell some of Emily and EHD’s favorite ceramicists (BZippy, MQuan, Virginia Sin, Matthew Ward Studio) as well as other sought-after design brands like Lostine, Fort Standard, Skagerak, and way more. It’s kind of like the who’s who of artisans every designer and stylist I know taps to make their projects beautiful and well-curated.

Top: Trio Coat Rack in Speckled White, $140 | Large Standing Bowl in Moss, $230 | Medium Stash Jar in Charcoal, $140
Bottom: 16″ X 24″ Washed Linen Vice Versa Cushion in Cobalt, $153 | Peggy Hook, $36 | Mini Face Planter in Dreamy, $165

The roster of Cedar & Hyde encompasses lots of ceramics, kitchen wares, and soft goods. I need to figure out where I can put those Lostine hooks in my house immediately (wait, why do I need so many hooks all of a sudden because I also really want that Trio coat rack…). The footed bowl is the type of thing that can transform any surface it’s on and the stash jar is expensive but exceptional. Put it in your bathroom, kitchen, console table, nightstand…anywhere.

Glassette

Prices: $$$

Where color and cool meet. That’s Glassette. While not every single item is a personal home run for me aesthetically speaking, almost everything in their marketplace is at least smile-inducing. It’s a UK brand, and you can see that signature English charm and quirk rendered in a modern, clean way. Pick even a single thing, and it’s sure to be that one statement piece you maybe didn’t even know your room needed.

Top: SIN For-Everything Rack / Vertical, Sand, $190 | SIN Serra Bookends (1 Pair), Sand, $150 | Hannah Simpson Studio Blue ‘Me’ Table Lamp with Matching Wool Lampshade, $305
Bottom: Studio Simone Tomato Mayo Skinny Stripe Painted Frame, $96 | Amanita Labs Flur 2.0 Coasters Tobacco, $32 | Tortuga Forma Dinner Napkins Double-Sided Checker, Set of 4 – Sky, $95

Why is it so hard to find coasters that don’t look like a slice of a gemstone or some other rock? And while I intellectually know cork is great and absorbent, I also don’t want my coasters to look like I bought them at Office Depot. Love these. And love it or hate it, where else can you find a dramatic lamp with a wool lampshade? It’s pretty fabulous, tbh. As is that—surprise, surprise—vertical rack.

Lone Fox

Prices: $$-$$$

Drew Micheal Scott, i.e. Lone Fox, is a staple of the home content creator community. His popularity exploded over the last few years as he shared all the DIYs he did to his Los Angeles home. His look is moody, aged, and what I’m coining “castle chic.” And while you might already be following him on Insta, YouTube or the Tok, you might not know that he actually has a very good e-comm shop! He sells both new and vintage/sourced furniture, decor, and art. The vintage stuff is pricey but all really well curated and in good condition, while the new stuff is more in the price realm of West Elm.

Top: Vintage Mid Century Solid Brass Shell Pot, $325 | Woven Rattan Wall Hooks (set of 2), $45 | Pears Still Life Oil Painting by Carpenter, 1965, $455
Bottom: Frasia Block Print Ruffled Pillow Cover, $55 | Vintage Italian Murano Glass Shell Sconce, $850 | Hatched Organic Woven Vase, $49

I cannot get over those vintage Murano Glass shell sconces. They are gorgeous (and I’m not even a big fan of Murano glass…or shells, yet I also love that brass shell pot). Oh, and for any parent out there who wants beautiful vases and ceramics, the woven vase here is actually made of resin, so it can take a tumble and still be fine!

Goodee

Prices: $$$

A watering can so beautiful it might be confused for decor. A plant stake that could double as a sculpture. A vase that makes you want to go pick wildflowers. Oh, and it’s all promoting conscious commerce, environmental conversation, heritage preservation and so much more. Goodee is the elevated housewares brand you can feel very good about.

Top: Pakurigo Basket, $225 | Ikebana Vase, $289 | The Warley Fall (One Gallon), $149
Bottom: Folk Plant Stake – Hinto, $35 | 1616 / Arita Palace Plate 220, $40 | Dog Bed Basket, $245

It’s not often a basket or a toilet brush stand can feel like an heirloom piece but alas, Goodee has managed it. That Ikebana Vase is the kind of thing I’d buy myself for a landmark birthday like that one I have coming up next month, and perhaps it’s time the wispy legs of my fiddle leaf fig aren’t held together by blue painter’s tape anymore? This one is only $35!

Piglet in Bed

Prices: $$

I’ve shared bedding from Piglet in Bed in prior posts of mine and it’s worth a mention here. Good bedding is offered by so many brands these days, but I just love the charming stripes, gingham, and small florals of this UK company. I find their prices fair and comparable to others in their category. Linen is their bread and butter but they also offer cotton (and other home goods like throws, curtains, towels, and even pajamas).

Top: Cream Linen Crinkle Throw, from $127 | Pine Green Pembroke Stripe Linen Blend Curtains (Pair), from $172 | Pine Green Pembroke Stripe Cotton Towels, from $59
Bottom: Warm Blue Gingham Linen Quilt, from $262 | Navy Striped Knitted Throw, from $79 | Sandstone Red Pembroke Stripe Linen Blend Duvet Cover, from $229

I’m particularly drawn to the pine green Pembroke Stripe color combination, and you’ll see it here twice between the curtains and the towels. Their stripes in general are great, because I find you can get thin pinstripes and thicker stripes elsewhere, but it’s hard to find this happy-medium stripe size.

Fable

Prices: $$$

Have you ever seen someone take a wine glass and whack it on the edge of a counter without it breaking? Yeah, me neither, until I found Fable. They say they use an “ion-toughening technique” which makes their thin glass twice as strong and durable as regular glass. I don’t get it, but I’ll trust the science.

Top: Serving Board Set, $172 | Wine Glasses – Set of 4, $121 | Dinner Plates – Set of 4, $79 | Bottom: Highball Glasses – Set of 4, $135 | Ramen Set, $76 | Cups – Set of 4, $64

Their wood boards have also undergone some sort of witchcraft that makes them less absorbent and lighter, and all their stoneware is fired at a much higher temperature than traditional earthenware which makes them non-porous and more durable.

Greenrow

Prices: $$

And lastly, yet another UK stockist, but this time with that English cottage core vibe so many have loved for the past few years. It’s nostalgic but still feels fresh enough that you don’t think you’re living in a 1990s Laura Ashley catalog. They make great floral and printed upholstery, but for the sake of this article, I’m sticking to showcasing their small goods.

Top: Sofa Topper Pillow Cover, $109 | Geometric Embroidery Fringe Trimmed Pillow Cover, $59 | Printed Drum Lamp Shade, $139
Bottom: Extending Taper Candle Holder, $59 | Woven Seagrass Stool, $199 | Eloise Embroidered Pillow Cover, $139

Solid fabric people need not apply here. You’ll find their beautiful prints on sofa toppers, fringed throw pillows, even lampshades. Don’t skip their other accessories—how sweet is this taper candle holder?

—

Anything strike your fancy? I know most things are a bit of a splurge, but I hope I shared things you’d add to your home that you’d have if not forever, than for the foreseeable future. Quality, artisanship, and craftsmanship seem to be at a low these days with everything being hit by shrinkflation in one form or another, but if you want to invest in quality goods, you have at least nine places to start looking.

Enjoy, happy perusing, and happy new year, new you, new home.

Until next time…

The post Need Inspiration To Reinvent Your Home This Year? These 9 Under The Radar (& Designer Loved!) Stores Should Help appeared first on Emily Henderson.