Emily Henderson's Blog, page 54

The Affordable Bathroom 2024 Decor Trend That We Are Loving Right Now

I feel like I’m always behind on trends compared to other people. As you know I’m a bit risk-averse when it comes to hard finishes (tile, flooring, etc). But the other day I was looking at World of Interiors (an awesome European magazine that always has fresh and cool trend ideas) and I saw a shot/idea of a beautiful bathroom with a pillow on the toilet. I was intrigued and wondered if this is the next big trend. Part of me felt like it was a bit silly, but then I realized that it could be a great affordable way to bring in texture and softness in an otherwise hard seat. But what makes a pillow right for a toilet? While there seems to be a big toilet-specific pillow hole in the market I went on the hunt. Today I’ll show you what “toilet pillows” I’m into with the rules around what really works as your official “toilet pillow” should you want to dabble in this trend.

Toilet Pillows: Things To Consider/Good To Knows

The shape and style are important of course, but also consider the size of the person’s behind, their bathroom habits (length of stay, specific back problems that might need a special foam firmness), and definitely get wipeable fabric – Sunbrella is great, but skip velvet, boucle or knits with a chunky open weave. Leather might have a nice patina as rogue liquids splash onto it over time but might not be everyone’s cup of tea.

The Simple Square Or Rectangle Pillow (In Durable Outdoor Fabric)

Here’s my case: The bowl is round and the shape of the toilet is more sculptural, so I thought that a square pillow would pop off it nicely and add dimension and contrast, but in a simple way. The shape of the toilet is more detailed, so a square balances it, with its clean lines. I love the subtle stripe against the floral wallpaper.

A smaller rectangle was maybe a better scale for our toilet – helping it feel more balanced. Bonus points for these two because they are Sunbrella, so again, should there be any toilet accidents near the fabric it could easily be wiped or washed. I like how these recede and don’t call attention away from the pretty wallpaper and tile.

Striped Lumbars

I actually really love these – the pattern pops and the longer lower shape of these lumbar pillows could in fact be really supportive to your guests (especially for older folks who need more back support). This feels more fun and eclectic but still something you could use in other rooms should you like to move your pillows around like I do (you also might want a dedicated toilet pillow if you have kids, specifically boys with their toilet habits that might be a bit unpredictable). A busy pattern could also be more forgiving over time.

Make It Playful And Round?

I wanted to lean into the roundness of the bowl and combine another big pillow trend (round or sphere pillows). I think this is actually super fun – the pom poms are so playful and pick up on the other round elements in the room (the toilet paper, the shape of the shower head, etc). If this white scares you (I get that) I’d go for a more earthy color and lean into the colors that might “go” better with toilet-related things.

I loved this one because it picked up on the gold in the vintage frame/painting above the toilet. I like how tailored this pillow is, with the piping and the single-button tuft in the middle. This just looks like a pillow you are supposed to sit on (of course you need to remove the pillows before you actually go) and the seriousness of it makes me smile.

The Perfect Sphere

I bought this pillow from Lulu and Georgia for our bedroom, but I think I like it up here just as much. The smaller scale lets the shape of the toilet shine, it helps your eye dance around while it moves over the curves. It also feels like a nice pillow to hold, should you need something to squeeze during the more intense morning routines.

A Bohemian Fringed Lady

While I love this pillow, it doesn’t feel right here as the toilet pillow. I think something about the longer fringed tassels feels gross to me, could pick up on germs, rogue splashes, etc. While some of these pillows really elevate the room, this feels like a big messy miss to me.

A Semi-Circle Rainbow

I LOVE the shape of this 1/2 circle on the toilet. It clearly rests easily, and the lines of the rainbow seem to really mimic the base of the toilet (the bowl shape almost finishes the circle). If this one came in a more muted color palette I could see it really selling the idea (and selling out, pillow designers please take note). Now that I think about it, I think a leather strapped back cushion, actually attached to the toilet could be a super chic way to explore this trend.

Make It Personal

As you know, I’m a memory hoarder so putting our wedding photo on a pillow was something I did years ago and makes me smile every time I see it. Admittedly, it’s been hard to work this pillow into many of our rooms because it’s rather specific (I think it might embarrass Brian TBH). But up here in the guest bath, on this toilet, it feels like the perfect way to celebrate our love and marriage with our guests. Hopefully, it will make Bob and Suz smile the next time they are up and adding that personal touch certainly makes this trend feel more sentimental and custom.

Like all decor, this trend isn’t for everyone, but to me, it just seemed like a big “why not” and now that we have this toilet pillow I’ll be bringing them into each of our bathroom designs, making sure that the pillow works with the style of the bathroom, the shape of the toilet, the scale of the bowl and considering daily habits. I’m very curious if this trend is going to take off (Europe is always first to these things) and if yes, then perhaps companies should start adding toilet-specific pillows into their inventory. I’m pretty into it.

So how do you feel about this toilet trend??? Are you into it???

xx Emily (…And Happy April Fools’ Day :))

*Photos by Kaitlin Green

The post The Affordable Bathroom 2024 Decor Trend That We Are Loving Right Now appeared first on Emily Henderson.

The Link Up: Em’s Packing Cubes, The $20 Shirt Arlyn Bought THREE Of, And Our New Favorite Bedding

Happy Sunday and Happy Easter for those who celebrate! We’re hoping it’s a beautiful warm day that’s packed with good food and good company:) So whether you’re with lots of family or having a peaceful day solo, here are this week’s links.

This week’s house tour, designed by Chloe Tozer and her partner Jack Clissold, is a warm, neutral-toned home with pops of color and a lot of whimsy! It’s so so pretty and you have to go check it out<3

From Emily: I finally broke down and joined the “packing cube enthusiasts” team and boy did it turn me into QUITE the packing braggart. Feeling quite on top of my game for spring break, knowing exactly where everything was at any point. Admittedly I didn’t do any research, just bought these from Target (there are multiple sizes) that have mesh (but not totally clear) and fit so much into them. I put most in my carry-on (we try not to ever check) and then a couple full of tech cords and toiletries in my bag.

From Caitlin: I am #blessed to live within walking distance of LA’s greatest food invention: the rip & dip garlic cream cheese-stuffed bagel from Calic Bagel. (Whatever you’re imagining, it’s better – you’ve gotta see what one of these looks like.) I feel the way about Calic Bagels that others might feel about cronuts or cupcake stores in the early 2010s – like, THERE SHOULD BE A LINE AROUND THE BLOCK AT ALL TIMES! Anyway, in addition to their eponymous star bagel, Calic also makes a variety of spreads including a Cacio e Pepe butter that is SO GOOD – my boyfriend and I buy tubs of it and he’ll throw it on some toasty bread alongside some pasta when he makes dinner. (If your mouth isn’t watering, IT SHOULD BE! It’s to die for.) If you’re the home chef type, here’s a great recipe to get the taste at home (but beware – you’re always going to want to have a little bit of it in the fridge or freezer for special occasions. It makes a normal piece of white toast taste like a 5-star restaurant dish!)

From Jess: I am VERY excited for my newest round of K-Beauty finds! The best part is that they are also pretty affordable:) I got this face sunscreen which happened to be on a 2-for-1 promo, this face moisturizer, and this cleanser. FYI I did research items that are good for dry/sensitive skin so if that is your skin type too and you need a product restock, these might be great options for you:)

From Mallory: I recently snagged this travertine tray from Amazon and am SO IMPRESSED by the quality!! It’s heavy and has such a pretty scalloped edge to it! If you’re in need of a solid (and I mean SOLID) catch-all tray this truly is a great one and goes well anywhere!

From Gretchen: I have an exciting update coming at you from the comfort of my new Article bed!! This week, I’m finishing up my bedroom MOTO and couldn’t be happier with how it’s all coming together–which was admittedly SO FAST I haven’t had a chance to even intro the project! (Detailed posts about it all coming very very soon!) I don’t want to give away too much, so I’ll say this: Article offers bedding now and I am actually in love. I’ll tell you from sleeping in it myself, their Leni gauze cotton duvet cover is so soft, so beautiful, and adds the perfect subtle texture to my space. I went with the charcoal colorway and I’m just so pleased with it and how it works with the rest of the room. The color is rich but not too dark and the puckered texture just feels so elevated. Can’t wait to show it off!

From Arlyn: I’ve got a good one this week, friends. A $20 shirt that fits and wears like it’s $100…so I bought three of them. I randomly spotted this linen button-down on a recent Target trip and I could tell right away that it would be something I’d love to wear, and likely grab over and over again this spring and summer. Plus, for the price, I couldn’t pass up every color they had in stock (they have a few more colors online they didn’t have in store). And let me tell you, it’s been exactly what I hoped it would be. Soft, washes well, wears well, drapey but not potato-sacky, short but not cropped. Plus, I love the oversized front pocket with the pattern shift to feel very Madewell without Madewell price tags.

As always, thanks for stopping by and see y’all tomorrow! xx

Opening Image Credits: Design by Emily Henderson and Kate Arends | Photo by Geneieve Garruppo  | From: A Boathouse Makeover with The Frame

The post The Link Up: Em’s Packing Cubes, The $20 Shirt Arlyn Bought THREE Of, And Our New Favorite Bedding appeared first on Emily Henderson.

A Spring Transition Outfit Idea I’m Loving – Maxi Skirts FTW

As a proud “apple-shaped person” (bigger on top, smaller on bottom) I love the look of the smaller top with the big flow skirt but it’s not a combination that I feel my best in (as you know I like my tiny shorts/skirts or tight jeans and blousy tops) so I just kinda never thought to really try a maxi skirt. But recently I tried one on with a vintage sweatshirt and I was like “Hey, look at that! I can do this too”. It’s so comfortable, easy to wear, and perfect for transitional seasons (aka spring or maybe when our legs are tanned enough LOLOLOL – my legs are always orange, don’t worry!!) 

The Great (one of my favorite brands, albeit highly splurgy) and Claire V (same) always nail this look – the casual on top and more feminine on bottom, and one of my best friends works for The Great and styles things to be just so effortlessly cool (shout out to Suzanne). Here is what she does (that I fully copy).

Jean Jacket (similar) | T-Shirt | Skirt | Boots

The top of choice leans more “masculine,” maybe a crew neck sweatshirt, a vintage band T-shirt, etc, but can’t be too bulky (because the bottom is so voluminous). Again, this could be a vintage t-shirt or a ripped sweatshirt. Sure you can wear a ruffly blouse with this skirt, but that looks more formal, less every day (IMHO). THEN, Front tuck that top. You want to see the waistline so it’s a tad bit more defined. Wear with the “wrong shoe” i.e. sneakers, combat boots, Birkenstocks. While the inclination might be to wear a “girly” and flowy skirt with heels or cute flats (and obviously do WHATEVER YOU WANT) if you are trying to dress this down and look more “everyday effortless” then copy what all these ladies do. And listen (without laughing, but I find fashion hilarious so go ahead and LOL) looking “comfortable” is IN these days (to some of us, thank god) so now is your chance to not have to wear heels (still hard for me quarantine). 

I hadn’t really planned on “modeling” this outfit (Kaitlin literally just caught me in what she thought looked cute and snapped a few photos) so I might have styled it even better TBH or added some layered chains/taken off the jacket, but you get it. Keep it casual and a little messy/masculine on top (or a simple muscle or ribbed tank will do) and then easy breezy and full/ruffly on the bottom. Add a baseball hat for the full “I’m a celebrity that is trying to not get noticed in Erewhon” effect. Lol. 

photos by veronica crawford | styling by suzanne trudelle  | from: six fall sweaters i’m loving (+ how to wear them)

Here is the effortlessly cool Suzanne who helped style the two of us for a fashion shoot a handful of years ago. How cute yet easy is that outfit?! Casual Top + Fun Skirt + “Wrong Shoe” = A cool and comfortable look.

Sweatshirt (similar) | Skirt | Sandals

This is the outfit I was referring to in the intro and boy was I comfortable:)

from: on the hunt for comfy and cute spring break sandals – here Is what I found

Sweatshirt | Midi Slip Skirt | Heels

I also wanted to throw this look in because while it’s not a super flowy shirt and is more of a midi, the rules still apply! Think how cute this would still be with a pair of Converse or boots.

My team curated a bunch of skirts should you be into this transitional vibe (hopefully you have something in your closet already). And for those of you/us who still like a little lift, I love my New Balances with the light platform or go for a platform slide (like this one) or Teva. 

Wave Denim Maxi Skirt

This one may not be super flowy but it is wavy:) The details of this skirt are so cool and honestly, it does look pretty comfortable. Plus, it’s from Farm Rio which we can attest for their awesome quality.

Linen-Blend Tiered Midi Skirt

Would you guess this was from Abercrombie & Fitch? The pattern is perfect to really play with the masc/fem mix of pieces and it’s great that while the pattern is busy the color is quiet so it’s not too loud if that’s what you prefer. It also comes in other patterns and colors too!

Gwyneth Slip Skirt

How great is that bold yet casual stripe? The linen fabric is so pretty and versatile.

The Linen Wrap Skirt

Another neutral but bold patterned skirt! That extra-long tie is also very cool and think how fun this would be paired with a vintage band shirt and leather jacket??

Elevated Embroidered Maxi Skirt

Talk about a whimsical spring skirt! It not only has an eyelet trim but it has a lace section too. Beautiful and easy to throw on with a fun crewneck sweatshirt!

Green Margarita Skirt

Another more slender option but that print is so chic and playful! Just think, during the day throw on a slouchy t-shirt with comfy shoes, then at night dress it up with something more fitted and a cute heel or fancy sandal. It’s also from EHD’s newest favorite online shop, Tuckernuck.

Linen Tie-Front Maxi Skirt

Here’s a fuller shirt with such a cute paper bag waist! Plus, as you can see it has pockets. Did we mention that it’s only $36??

Petra Linen Midi Skirt

This midi is a really fun easy one that not only has pockets but is high-waisted if that’s what you prefer:)

The Tilda Maxi Slip Skirt

Something that we are not mad that is trending is the long silk slip skirt. It’s both casual but is so so easy to dress up. A piece that is good all year long.

Bubble Bliss Skirt

The idea of wearing a long bubble skirt sounds pretty freaking fun! This one also has a smocked back but maximum comfort. Effortless and playful:)

Gwyneth Slip Skirt

As one of J.Crew’s bestsellers, I think it’s safe to say this one is pretty great. The polka dot is awesome but if you prefer a solid don’t worry, they have seven other colors to choose from!

Happy Comfortable Spring, y’all  

*Unless Otherwise Noted, Photos by Kaitlin Green

The post A Spring Transition Outfit Idea I’m Loving – Maxi Skirts FTW appeared first on Emily Henderson.

Dog And Cat Decor Accessories That Will Make Your Home Cuter (Beds, Gates, Scratchers, And MORE)

About a year and a half ago, I was convinced I was adopting a dog I had come across (I know that sounds weird but the story is too long). Anyway, it was more serendipitous than an intentional search which made it feel like it was without a doubt meant to be (aka I wasn’t trying to adopt but the most perfect angel kinda fell into my lap, literally and figuratively). So despite knowing I was going to have to give the hard sell to my landlord, I went against the “don’t put the horse before the cart” and started to pin and plan all the things I was going to need to get. IT WAS MEANT TO BE GUYS! I’m talking a crate, dog pet, bowls, toys, collar, leash, the works. So I’m sure you know where I’m going with this…my landlord said no. And look, she was as nice about it as she could and I understood that you can’t bend the rules for one and then deny other tenants. I think ultimately it was probably a good thing but you bet I still think about that sweet bundle of love often. Also, if we want to look at another silver lining out of this, is that I did a lot of research into what I would actually buy for my home…and you bet aesthetics were directly under safety on the priority scale:)

We were talking as a team and thought that a post about the dog and cat stuff you need that is also nice to look at could hopefully be really helpful for new pet parents (like I was TRYING to be!) or ones that want to refresh some of the pet stuff they have.

So that’s what we have for you today, dog and cat-focused functional decor if you are in the market. No pressure if you already have things that you like that aren’t on this list because truly the options are endless and it’s all about loving your pet and home however you see fit. First up, beds!

design by sarah zachary | photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: a historic mid-century modern home that was completely brought back to life

FYI! I categorized “dog” and “cat” sections for the beds but most of them have a bunch of other sizes so if you love a “dog bed” but have a cat, I would say it’s a safe bet that there’s a small enough option.

Dogs

Frisco Herringbone Pillow Dog & Cat Bed | Signal Dog Bed ( 2 sizes + 4 other colors) | 7″ Headrest Orthopedic Pillow Dog Bed with Removable Cover (2 sizes + 3 other colors)

Let’s begin with some luxury, shall we? The simple chicness of the first two, what with their velvety two-toned pillow look, makes me predict your pet will think they are better than everyone at an alarmingly fast rate. This was the look I was looking at heavily:) Not to promote superiority in my pup but I loved the style for my apartment. But if you have a large lux dog in a lux home then that orthopedic Pillow option comes in really big sizes. Fancy doesn’t have a size!

Memory Foam Striped Pillow (3 sizes + 6 other colors) | Pepper Dog Bed | Harry Barker Vintage Stripe Pet Bed (3 sizes + 2 other colors)

Boy, do we love stripes over here and a cabana stripe is both currently trendy and timeless. WIN. I also wanted to give a few different options with stripe scale but all of them have at least one more colorful option if black and white isn’t for you. Ok, but how good is the yellow and black and white mix!!?

Dog Lounge Bed | Studio Ford for Commune Dog Bed (2 sizes) | Dog Bed (1 other pattern)

But if you love a little pattern but are looking for something a little softer I love all of these so much. The blue one you can also get monogrammed if you want. However, that Studio Ford one is insanely good but that coolness and quality will cost ya. And of course how soft but still playful is the brown one. Diet stripes if you will:)

Natural Dog Bed Basket (8 sizes) | Vintage Faux Leather Dog Beds (4 sizes + 2 other colors) | Dog Bed Basket (5 sizes)

I couldn’t leave the dog bed section without throwing in some options that would be foolproof in a neutral, organic home (or any home). The woven baskets are really special. The detailing is so good! And if you love a leather look then the search is over with this vintage faux leather cozy pick.

Cats

So look, I’ve never owned a cat and that is mostly to blame on the fact that my dad is allergic (no cats allowed growing up). I’ve yet to really want one. I just don’t think I’m chill enough for the potential furniture shredding but more importantly, I still need my dad to help with my home decor projects! However, I was a cat sitter for Em back in the day, and last summer, I spent 2+ weeks caring for three cats so I have some credentials. Ok, onto beds!

Nate & Jeremiah Donut Pet Bed (2 sizes) | Anti Anxiety Round Fluffy Plush Faux Fur Cat Bed (3 sizes + 11 other colors) | Kip Cat Cushion (2 sizes)

Most of the cat beds I’ve seen in my friends’ homes are these little round ones and now I’m curious if they help with anxiety as the name of the blue one suggests?? Poor little pumpkins! Anyway, I do prefer the look of the striped one and the white one, but I’ve seen cats love ones like the blue one so it’s something to consider. I picked that one mostly because I think it’s a nice shade of blue:)

Striped Faux Lambswool Double Layer Cat Couch Sofa Bed | Nate & Jeremiah Elevated Pet Bed (2 sizes) | Sherpa Faux Fur 3-in-1 Pet Bed (4 sizes)

Little pet sofas KILL ME. They are so freaking cute. The striped one was one I pinned a few weeks ago so well before this post was planned for. But that little rattan guy, of course, designed by Nate and Jeremiah couldn’t be sweeter. Then that white one is cool because it can transform into three different configurations. Go check it out!

Cayman Raised Wooden Base Pet Bed (2 sizes) | Floof Cat Blanket

They look like chic meditation pillows/pads and that’s all I am going to say:) Ok, well one thing. I do know that the one on the right is a blanket but knowing cats the way I do (ha) they love things like that.

Rattan Pet Bed | Cat Bed Felt Cave

And to finish off the beds section, I wanted to get a little crazy but in a cool, natural-looking way:) That rattan house is so cute and the felt cave could effortlessly work with so many different styles.

Crates

I feel like crating is a bit controversial but as I was doing my research, when I thought I was adopting a puppy, both my brother and cousin said it was a must for puppies. And when I say they are dog people, they are DOG PEOPLE and their pups are very well-behaved and so wonderful (which took a lot of consistency and training too… obviously:))

Rest Set (2 sizes) | Modern Dog Crate with Sliding Door (5 sizes) | Modern Dog Cage (6 sizes + 5 other colors)

The one on the far left was the one I was planning on getting. Stylistically it was my favorite at the time and the reviews were great. I would still be considering that one but now I also really love the middle one! Simple, modern, cool. But if you want some more flare, then the paneling on the last one is pretty fun without being too loud.

Heavy Duty Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate (6 sizes) | Open Wire Dog Pen (2 sizes)

But a classic is a classic for a reason so a wire crate or pen for itty bitty pups is great! I’ll show you my favorite options on how to dress them up next.

Crate Covers

Nate & Jeremiah Cloth Crate Cover (5 sizes) | Linen Dog Crate Cover (8 sizes + 5 other colors) | Herringbone Fabric Crate Cover (5 sizes)

Look at these crate covers! What a great option to not only help put your pup to sleep but also get to look at something prettier than plain wire. I mean you don’t even have to roll down the door flaps if you just prefer the look.

Crate Pads

Nate & Jeremiah Boucle Cozy Crate Mat (5 sizes) | Pendleton Vintage Camp Lake Comfort Cushion Dog Crate Mat (5 sizes) | Nate & Jeremiah Striped Crate Mat (5 sizes)

Now, you can’t have a crate without a crate pad! Or something very cozy. I think between these three there’s something for everyone. A really simple, minimal one, an outdoorsy, graphic one, and finally a great but crowd-pleaser pattern.

Gates

Ok, TBH, I never looked at interior gates because for some reason I didn’t think of it in the week leading up to the big “no.” However, I should have! There was no way I was going to trust a puppy to hang out next to me all day and not cause some kind of havoc in another part of the apartment.

20-in Freestanding Dog Gate | Extra Wide Freestanding Wire Dog Gate | Metal Baby Gate with Wood Pattern

I might have gone for that simple one on the left. Good wood tone, simple, and free-standing. I also wouldn’t want to cause any potential damage to my walls in this rental. But of course, you have a great suspension one on the right which I think is technically for a human baby but who cares! Now, if you have a wide opening to deal with then I like the middle one.

Mid-Century Modern Gate | DIY Safety Mate Expandable Pet Gate | Deco Horizontal Lines 3-Panel Dog Gate

Here’s a more modern offering! I like the idea of using your gate as a “pop of color” opportunity like the blue one in the middle. But the coolness of the white ones is really great too. Plus, if you have a baby after your pet you are all set on the baby gate (well not the freestanding ones!)

Cat Scratchers

Tangerine Scratching Ball Cat Toy | Colossal Curvy Clawer | Cat Scratcher with Roller Ball

While scratching is my main cat hesitation, some of the scratchers are so fun! Can you handle that tangerine!? My cousin has that one and loves it…well, their cats do:)) But if that bold of a color is too much then you have the roller ball which I think would be really fun for a cat. However, the main scratcher showstopper is the middle one. I would almost buy that for my house, no cats needed.

Modern Wall-Mounted Cat Scratcher (3 colors) | Wall-Mounted Cat Scratcher

And how chic are these wall cuties? NO NOTES. I do like the white one and how it really melts into the wall.

One Cat Tower

Grove Cat Tower

This was really the only tower I truly loved! That doesn’t mean there weren’t other good options I saw but none measured up to this one in my heart.

photo by kaitlin green | from: the mudroom dog washing stationFood Bowls

Dog Bowl | Ceramic Bowl (2 sizes + 3 other colors) | Fable Bowl | Nate & Jeremiah Ceramic Pet Bowl (1 other color)

So while your pet doesn’t need a fancy bowl, you might like looking at one. I really love all these more neutral ones for different reasons. The Farmhouse Pottery one is just that, perfect for a farmhouse or vintage-style home. The middle one could work anywhere but is clearly perfect for any modern style. Then the ceramic one on the right would be ideal in a home with a lot of organic elements. You can’t lose!

Uplift Bowl (3 sizes + 2 other colors) | Ripple Bowl (3 sizes + 4 other colors) | Vice Woof Pet Bowl

But if you want something a little more playful then this patch is where you need to be. I love the footed one because it looks like a planter! The blue is just cool and comes in other colors too. Then finally the iconic Jonathan Adler dog bowl that is pricy but the most fun if you want some added pattern and humor.

Mats

Anti-Skid Placemat | Waterhog Squares Pet Mat | Food n’ Water Set

As we know though, our sweet pets are messy with their food and water (especially the dogs in my own experience:) So a mat is a great idea to at least tame the mess. All are anti-slip which is awesome and actually, the gray side of the far right photo is quick-drying.

Raised Food Bowls

Premium Non-Skid Elevated Dog & Cat Bowl (2 sizes) | Elevated Dog Bowl (3 sizes) | Elevated Dog & Cat Double Bowl Feeder (3 sizes)

But maybe your dog wants or needs a raised dog bowl and these are all very cool-looking! The far left is giving MCM vibes but could work in so many homes. The middle bowls not only come in different heights but also have a tilted option! Then I just loved the one on the right. I think I would stain or paint it a different color (with an animal-safe product) because I think the cutouts are so sick but for me, the finish isn’t my style.

 Cube App Dog & Cat Feeder

I’m not going to lie, after feeding wet food to three cats for two weeks, I would have LOVED an electric dispenser. TBF, this one is for dry food but still. This would be a game-changer and it’s under $100.

Tower Airtight Pet Food Storage Container (2 sizes) | 3 Height Adjustable Elevated Dog Bowl Stand with Anti-Slip Design

Here are two little curveballs! The one on the left is a set. It’s a super cute raised bowl setup WITH a great-looking food storage container. Win-Win. Then the black dog bowl stand is great because you can adjust the height. I know when my old dog was again we needed to get him a taller bowl so this would have been great.

photo by kaitlin green | from: farmhouse mudroom revealFood Storage

Pet Food Storage Container (3 sizes) | Vacuum Dog & Cat Food Storage Container

My cousin wanted me to include some food storage options and to be honest, I wasn’t overwhelmed by a lot of cool options. I think most people are able to hide their normal bin of pet food out of sight. But if you can’t, I really liked these two!

photos by tessa neustadt | from: how our new laundry room came togetherLitter Box

Cove Litter Box

From Caitlin (who has a WONDERFUL cat): “It’s like if Apple designed a litter box. Also, I’ve had it since 2020 and it’s so easy to clean! I don’t have problems with anything getting stuck to it which is rare. Scooping litter sucks but this makes it a little less gross and more tolerable.”

Enough said if you ask me.

Litter-Robot 4 Smart App-Controlled Self-Cleaning Litter Box

However, if you’ve been curious about this bad boy then I have a review for you. First off, I wouldn’t call this litter box beautiful but if it makes cleaning up your cat’s “stuff” a lot better then basically who cares what it looks like? My neighbors LOVE it (yes, in my building cats are allowed but dogs aren’t) and say it’s been a game-changer. It is really big and it took one of her cats some time to get used to it but aside from that 10/10 stars.

Litter Box Furniture

Rattan Cat Litter Box Furniture With Doors (1 other color) | Haven Litter Box Enclosure

Especially if you have a small place, the last thing you want is to have your little box out for you and all of your guests to see, right? I love these two for their rattan and perforated details. Simple, fun, and stylistically effective!

Hidden Cat Litter Box Enclosure | Modern Plywood Litter Box Cabinet (3 other colors) | Drop Down Door Bench Cat Litter Box Cover

These ones lean even more modern which I would pick for myself just based on my style. The two black ones are very cool and understated while the brown plywood one is meant to be seen! You know I’m a sucker for a medium to large cutout.

I truly hope this was helpful to all current and future dog and cat parents (me included). Happy Friday!

Love you, mean it.

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Kaitlin Green

The post Dog And Cat Decor Accessories That Will Make Your Home Cuter (Beds, Gates, Scratchers, And MORE) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

We Answer 6 Readers’ Curtain Calls For Help: Bay Windows, Clerestories, Arches + More

Hey EHD friends. For anyone following along, this is my third post in what has become a bit of a curtains-how-to installment. The first post was more of a whole home cheat sheet and the second showcased real reader homes with real reader problems.

Today is a continuation of the last post because we received far too many reader submissions that we thought would be helpful for others to see and had to keep going on the subject. And guess what, there’s one more after this, too. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Let’s focus on the here and now, which involves how to dress bay windows (with and without seats), working with transom arches (and giant windows to boot), corner windows, and clerestory windows.

In the last post, I included some information that could be useful to anyone trying to cover their windows. Here’s the TLDR:

South-facing windows: Get the most light, all day long. Can be intense at times and bring in a lot of warmth, especially in the summer. North-facing windows: Get the least amount of light. Can keep a room cooler. West-facing windows: Get the most amount of direct light in the afternoons/early evenings. East-facing windows: Gets the most amount of direct light in the morning (good in kitchens, bad in bedrooms).

This is, of course, just a quick summary of the basics. These conditions can change depending on what hemisphere you’re in, whether it’s summer or winter, and what you have going on outside your window, like an overhang, a porch, a building that blocks light, big trees, etc.

The direction of the window you have can (but doesn’t always) determine how you cover it. For instance, if you have a north-facing window, you can get away with sheers or light-filtering curtains. If you have an east-facing window in your bedroom, most people opt for something with a black-out lining unless they don’t mind waking up with the sun.

But it’s not just about sunlight, is it? It’s also about privacy (and well, aesthetics). Maybe your front living room window faces a bustling sidewalk, and you want light to come in but you don’t want people knowing the color of your bathrobe, necessarily. Or your dining room is open to a backyard that butts up against a wall of trees. Or perhaps you’re like my husband who could have a bank of windows looking out to a wall and would still want them covered at night because it freaks him out otherwise.

Okay, so maybe that wasn’t exactly a “too long, didn’t read” summary, but I guess you’re all here for information anyway, so I won’t make apologies.

A Few Good Examplesdesign by emily henderson | photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: living room update – again – our new sofa, my dream floral chaise and the pop of red i always wanted in my life

Alright, so, as we typically do around here, let’s explore some images of rooms that illustrate good solutions for some of the problems we’re going to dive into today. This one above, of Emily’s old LA living room, is a great example of how to tackle a bay window, as these can leave people scratching their heads for a while (I have personal experience with delayed problem-solving for something like this). I love how clean and understated the Roman shades are here. I recommend something similar if you keep reading.

design by julie rose for EHD | photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: a refresh of our favorite “child client’s” – bedroom 8 years later

To dress this corner window pairing, Julie opted for curtain panels hung with a corner curtain rod. This usually involves a joint in the middle point so you can avoid having to try to hang two rods right next to each other and keeps it more streamlined. A panel (or two) in the middle is good for hiding those pivot points but also adding more softness. I’ll show you two examples of corner windows, neither of which felt right for this particular application.

styled by emily bowser | photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: how to design your bedroom for the best night sleep (+ introducing target’s new casaluna line)

Clerestory windows, usually over a bed, can be tricky. They seem so small, you have no clue what makes sense to use to cover them. I know some people who just don’t even bother since the light doesn’t bother them, and, being so high above eye level, there’s no need for additional privacy. I’ll almost always suggest a shade of some sort for these, unless—like in our reader’s room below—there’s an additional element like a dresser or other piece of furniture that could support something more.

design and styling by emily henderson and brady tolbert | photos by sara ligorria-tramp | from: 14 rules for how we style the perfect bedroom + 3 reveals

Just another quick, pretty example of a transom covering. Mostly because I sadly don’t have examples from the EHD archives of how we would approach stacked windows, windows with arches, or windows with tall transoms.

Okay, let’s get into some real reader homes. Let’s go!

Keeping the Sun & Onlookers at *Bay*

From our reader: “Help! I have struggled with the best solution for this window for 2 years. The HVAC registers right where curtains fall means we cannot have curtains pool at the floor and it is NOT the look I’m going for.”

Ahh the good ol’ bay window. Another quick story (promise it will be fast this time): Before I knew much about anything interiors, my sister and I spent the better part of a year trying to figure out how to put curtains in the bay window of her breakfast nook. Hers was fairly straightforward, not like this reader’s. There was no seat, and no A/C registers along the baseboards. We eventually stumbled upon corner brackets made specifically for bay windows and once we did, we couldn’t believe that such an obvious answer was out there and we were blind to it.

But that’s not this reader’s issue. She doesn’t like the look of her window coverings, and they’re a bit short too as not to interfere with the A/C vents, so I have another idea for her. One that I think is the best option and another idea just in case.

My advice is to take down the panels and the curtain rod, and instead, opt for Roman shades on each of the windows. It’s hard to tell how much sill clearance there is so I can’t necessarily say whether they should be inside or outside mounted, but I think that would be a much more intentional look than what she has right now.

A second way to go about it is cafe curtains. She could hang them about 3/4 of the way up (to intersect the second window of the grid down) to provide enough privacy from the street, but light would still be let in from that top 1/4.

Before moving on, I wanted to share an additional reader with bay window woes, since hers is more common, albeit with a weird additional window situation. Here’s what she said:

From our reader: “We moved in two years ago and have been living with the horrible (and broken) blinds in our bedroom while waiting out the contractors (finally) changing a door-to-nowhere for a window, on the right. Maybe curtains help with that balance, but also, how do we do that with this bay window situation? Do we mix some curtains with some shades? It’s east-facing and I sleep facing these windows, so I’d love some ability to filter light for sleep’s sake, but still love the light streaming in most of the day.”

Once I get over the fact that a builder had a door where that far right window is now…with nowhere to open it boggles my mind. Why??? But now it’s fixed, and this reader needs a solution! I get why she’s tripped up by it. It’s a funny little situation. She likely wants to cover all the windows the same way, but what needs to happen is two treatments: panels hung using a curtain rod specifically for bay windows, and then some shades to replace the broken mini blinds and to also cover that new extra window. I specified Roman because it feels like the elegance of that style would work with the decor in the room already, but a pull-down shade in a simple textural neutral would also be nice.

I edited out the part of the reader’s email where she noted not liking the trim around the window, so in theory, she could mount the shades on the outside to cover it, but I think the inside mount would look much cleaner here. For the panels, I’d hang 6 total: two for every window (one on each side).

Blinded By the Light…From These Arched Windows

From our reader: “I have large windows with an arched top in a room that feels spacious because it has a high ceiling but isn’t actually that large. It is south-facing, so in the morning the light is really intense; we have to wear sunglasses sometimes! The strong light comes in at the top of the arch, so cafe curtains won’t work. I worry that floor-to-ceiling drapes will overwhelm the space because of how tall they would be, and also expensive because it would take so many yards of fabric. We can’t do a Roman shade because of the arch. I’m stumped. Right now, I have a cafe curtain on one window for privacy from the neighbor’s home, which is close on that side. The back windows don’t need privacy or blackout drapes, just a little light filtering.”

Oh man, the transom…that’s also an arch. This is a double hitter of difficulty, especially when they face a direction that lets in so much light, you need to find a way to block them (not to mention this reader mentioned the height and the room size is another hurdle). Typically, if you don’t need to block the light, I’d recommend just hanging window coverings (either panels or shades or even shutters) below the arch/transom so you don’t need miles of fabric, but this reader specifically stated needing to block the light from the top.

Now, she didn’t specify window height here, so it’s hard to know how tall these are, but I can play a little game of guessing to come close: The French doors on the left are probably close to the standard height of 80 inches and the transom above looks to be at least half that height (though probably a little more). On the low end, that total vertical span is 120 inches or 10 feet. That doesn’t include any additional space above for hanging curtain rods, and I’ve frankly never seen a ready-made, off-the-shelf curtain longer than 120 inches, and even those are very hard to find.

I’m going to suspend the idea of cost here because I’m sorry to say that this reader, no matter what they opt for, is going to have a bit of sticker shock. She can go the custom route for a tailored finished product, but she can expect to spend $1,000-$4,000 per window depending on fabric, lining, layering, etc. She can also opt to sew some things herself as she mentioned being open to that in another part of her email, but that’s a massive amount of yardage for the width and height of 4 windows.

So like I said, let’s take cost out of the equation in case she happens to have a spare $12,000 lying around and wants the best solution. In that case, I’d go with light-filtering pull-down shades installed inside the window frame starting right below the transom with some light linens or even sheers as panels hung above the arch. That way, morning light can still come in, but the intensity will be dialed down (no more sunglasses inside the house!), and privacy can be provided on the window that looks out to the neighbors. A light, flowing curtain in a neutral to complement the wall color would make the room feel larger and likely not be too overwhelming, which is what the reader was concerned with.

One additional thought for drapery panels that don’t cost thousands is to buy the tallest curtains you can find (again, likely 120…check out Half Priced Drapes), and then add on to them with another fabric. Often when I see this, the additional fabric will line up with something in the room such as the bottom of the window sill to feel purposeful and not hodgepodge.

Don’t Cut Corners With Your Corner Windows

From our reader: “These are the windows of my living room. They are big and west-facing. I love the light but in the summer we are unable to open them…the sun is sharp and so bright. Also, the TV is right on the opposite wall, hence no watching it when the sun is setting, which is amazing for me but not the kids. Also, the corner is very tricky. I want to keep it organic but not too heavy, yet lots of texture.” 

Remember how in my last post, I was so jazzed about ripple fold curtains? THEY’RE BACK, BABY! Okay, so, while this reader could technically use a new drapery rod system that includes a corner bracket (like this one), I think the style of these windows and home might be better suited for a ceiling track so they can move the panels fully across the whole track and not get tripped up by support brackets or corner brackets. I would love to see a thin linen curtain and have them all nested to the far right side of the picture window when open.

In addition, a modern pull-down light-filtering shade would help provide privacy but also thwart some of that intense afternoon light they’re getting through their western windows. A large one to span all three windows on the main window wall would be sleek, with the addition of another one on the smaller window on the left. If they want to skip the pull-down shade, they could also do a double-track system that includes sheer curtain panels behind regular drapery.

—

Another reader was also struggling with corner windows, but these had transoms plus a French door, so I wanted to walk through how I would tackle it. Let’s take a look:

From our reader: “We are in desperate need of window treatments in this corner of our primary bedroom. We especially feel this during the winter months in Chicago when all the trees are bare and our natural privacy goes away. We also have a set of French doors which would be great to add privacy to as well. I don’t know where to begin!”

There are a few things here to take into consideration: To hang above or below the transom? Does she do drapery all the way across? Maybe just shades? Does it matter if she covers the light switch?

With window coverings, there are so many possible solutions, so I could see this in a few different ways. But what I think would be best, considering this is a primary bedroom, is two Roman shades mounted outside and above the transom on the corner windows, then a curtain rod with panels hung at the same height as the Roman shades to cover the door. Being that the window to the left of the door is very close, and there’s a light switch in between, grommet-top curtains will probably be best since they can fold up fairly small, rather than something with a clip that needs more room to collect. She will likely run into the problem of having to reach behind a curtain to access the light switch, but it’s kind of the lesser of all evils, tbh.

Oh, and I just left a quick suggestion on the photo to shift the plants and chair a little forward to let the fabric breathe once she puts up window coverings. That’s it!

Clearing Up What to Do With Clerestories

From our reader: “I recently moved into my dad’s 1960s ranch in Northern California. My boyfriend and I plan on living here for about 2 years until we buy our own place. After that, the home will return to being a rental. We want something neutral colored, clean, and allows for lots of daytime light. One window faces the street and there is a street light so having shades that can be light filtering or blackout would be awesome but we will take all your suggestions. We’d like something that is renter-friendly, as well.” 

And finally! Clerestory windows. These are so common in bedrooms, especially in homes from the ’60s and ’70s. They bring in light but protect your privacy. Genius…right? Well…not if you are someone who likes looking out a window. Nope, sorry! But that’s a fight for another day.

In this reader’s room, I’m going to recommend a neutral, durable pull-down (or motorized) shade or even a Roman over both windows. Something neutral means it would work with any renter that occupies this space next. As for the window on the right, I also think centering that dresser under the window and then adding draperies to the left and right would make the room feel so soft and grand. Curtains aren’t easy to close behind furniture, but that’s where the shade comes in.

Let’s Go Shopping

So, I decided to approach the shopping portion of these types of posts a little differently today. Typically, I’ll offer 2-3 products for each reader but I decided to put them all together this time instead as an easy reference point for anyone looking for solutions to tricky windows, particularly when it comes to hardware.

Top Row, Left to Right: Hinged Elbow Connector | Drapery Pivot Corner Bracket | Steel Adjustable Single Curtain Rod
Middle Row, Left to Right: Adjustable Overall Width Bay Window Single Curtain Rod | 4-Sided Bay Window Curtain Rod | Single Traverse Curtain Rod Bottom Row, Left to Right: Flexible Ceiling Curtain Track | VIDGA Single Track Set | Ceiling or Wall Mounted LORA Track Kit

In the first row, you’ll find corner window options, if you don’t want to go the Roman shade route as I suggested in some of the reader prompts. You can either buy a rod specifically for a corner, or you can just buy a bracket to attach to whatever rod you’re considering buying. Be sure you look at measurements here, because these brackets are sold by diameter to match rods.

Second are some bay window-specific rods. I like the first one because it has a bit of a return rod (meaning, the end of the rod returns back to the wall so the curtain can fully wrap around). The middle rod shows a 4-section rod, because I wanted to show that they sell these with as many as six (or even more) sections, if needed. Not all bays only have three windows, after all.

And from the far right option on the middle row to the last three, we have some traverse rods. That first one is more decorative if you still like the look of a curtain rod, but the other three are your more traditional track systems that can either be mounted on the wall or on the ceiling (or *in* the ceiling if you’re in the planning stages of a room design and can have that built-in). The flexible track would be great for corners!

Top Row, Left to Right: Classic Cordless Top Down Bottom Up Woven Woods | Custom Roman Shades – Everhem | Riviera Striped Linen Cotton Cordless Roman Blackout Shade
Bottom Row, Left to Right: Emery Linen Grommet Blackout Curtain | Parchment Cream Italian Faux Linen Curtain 120″ | Solar Shades

Aaaaaand a few shopping options! I shared a lot in my last post, as well, but some of these are specific to my recommendations. For instance, the custom Roman shades for those extra-wide clerestory windows (or even transoms); the grommet-top curtains, which, as a reminder, can fold up very thin at the edges of a window or door if needed; the extra-tall curtains for anyone needing a 120-inch panel without taking out a second mortgage on their home. Oh, and a pretty wood Roman that operates top down, bottom up, which is a great option for someone wanting that look with flexibility.

So that’s it! We did it! We helped solve not four, but SIX more reader conundrums. Of course, it feels like every window is its own individual issue, so not all my solutions work for homes that have a similar situation. But what’s that they say about skinning a cat (gruesome, I know)? More ways than one, friends.

Regardless, I’ll be back in a few weeks with the third and final installment that covers all things obstructions (A/C units, radiators, vents, ceilings, etc.). If you can’t wait that long and are hankering for more window advice, be sure to go read this older EHD article from Ginny on dressing awkward windows. There’s a lot of gold in there!

Until next time,

Arlyn

Opening image credits: Photo by Ryan Liebe | From: Our Updated Living Room + Shop the Look

The post We Answer 6 Readers’ Curtain Calls For Help: Bay Windows, Clerestories, Arches + More appeared first on Emily Henderson.

“Rejuvenating” My Friend’s Living And Dining Rooms – My Next No-Reno Project:)

When one of your best friends in the world has a problem (a new beautiful house with old starter furniture) and you have the skills to solve it, it’s simply too painful to let them suffer for long. Add in the fact that you have kids of very different ages (thus fewer family hangs than you want) and two very demanding jobs (allowing for almost zero weeknight social time). It’s then you realize that maybe the excuse to hang is needed. So now I get to carve out time to hang with Robs and call it work. Backstory – Robyn and I have been best friends since 6th grade and have stayed super close when I lived in New York and LA along with a couple of my other childhood best friends (shout out to Megs and Nic). They are one of the main reasons I wanted to move back to Oregon. Y’all, if they say that the quality of your life is measured by the quality of your relationships, then I have an extremely high-quality life because of these three. If there is anything I could wish for our kids is lifelong deep friendships like Brian and I have with our respective cohorts – my goodness is it both uplifting and grounding to grow into adults and parents with people who knew you during puberty:)

That’s Robs and I 8 years ago when she secretly came down for a Gold Peak Tea ad campaign that was, you know, centered on making memories with loved ones, looking at childhood photos, while drinking iced tea! (one of those “my job is both hilarious and oh-so-fun” days). Last year we finished Robyn’s basement, mudroom, new bathroom, and teen son’s room with the lead design by Priscilla Frost (I moved up when they were 1/2 way done so I mostly just styled and helped get some furniture partnerships for the project, Priscilla handled the renovation). But Priscilla has taken a full-time position (and this current project is just decoration, not renovation), so I felt like I could handle the design work. I mean, I do have a shopping addiction but need nothing for our home so I’ve been able to direct that Saturday morning energy somewhere productive:) In case you are wondering (because everyone asks), no I don’t feel comfortable charging my friends for my design time, but they don’t feel comfortable not paying so we usually land where they cover my team’s time for design assistance and photography/videography and I hope to make money from the ads on the blog post and possibly partnerships should I pitch the project out). But it’s not about money, it’s about having fun with my best friend while getting to do my job, so I consider myself highly lucky. Let’s get into it:

The Living Room

So here’s what we got. Great bones in a vintage house full of old starter furniture (nothing wrong with starter furniture but check out that sun fading on the back of the loveseat on the far right of the photo!!). Robyn has a huge job at Nike and has worked her ass off for decades climbing the corporate ladder in what used to be a pretty dude-bro environment. She wanted a home that reflected her and her family’s current design style and I wanted to give that to her/them. She, like most people I know, wants to love their home more but doesn’t have the time to dedicate to decorating, doesn’t know where to start, and doesn’t have an unlimited budget after moving and upgrading the home (and saving for kid’s colleges). She was just so bummed to walk into her new house that she loves and be disappointed with her 15-year-old $300 sofa set (it worked way better in her old home). She suffered from the ubiquitous “I just want things to be better, but I don’t know how I’ll ever do it” ailment. I got you Robs!!!

Here’s the plan:

Paint either walls or bookshelves/fireplace (currently planning on bookshelves and fireplace). Maybe both but if we don’t have to then GREAT, which saves on labor. New higher quality, heirloom furniture that works for her family of four (two teen boys) and their pup. New window treatments (they love the function of these so this will be a whole blog post about how we are giving them the same level of privacy and ease of the shutters, but just not those shutters which feel far too coastal and won’t fit the vibe when we are done).

See how they stick out so far when they are open? We still haven’t figured out what we are going to do, but I’m pushing to ditch the shutters (I like interior shutters at times, for sure).

The living room needs to function as a casual TV room at night, (they have a basement TV teen hang space), so they want this to be comfortable enough but more elevated than a “TV room” (the combination we all want, right?).

It’s also a pass-through living room (not my favorite layout, which I consistently seem to own) so we need to make sure that the layout flows well. There really is only one way to lay it out (main sofa against that wall) so that part is pretty easy.

The Dining Room

In the dining room, they have a really beautiful heirloom table that we are definitely keeping. But the rug will go elsewhere in the house and we are replacing and donating the chandelier (and lowering the new one a few inches). We are hoping to wallpaper in here and ideally leave the built-ins and window trims the creamy white (replacing hardware).

The view out the window is so pretty (you can see Mount Hood) and full of trees so we don’t plan on window treatments in here. The natural light is wonderful so it can handle a deeper color (and/or wallpaper) on the walls. I’m VERY EXCITED.

So What Is The Vibe?

We are going for a cozy and modern library/lodge vibe. It needs color, pattern, texture – all the things – and we want it to feel collected and more historic. Ryan loves deep, even bold colors (blues, greens, and burgundies) while Robyn loves things to be a bit lighter and more calming – blues, greens, and a slightly more curated color palette.

So here’s how it all went down. I have a beautiful leather tufted sofa and two cream swivel chairs – all from Rejuvenation that I couldn’t find the right space for in our home. I was hoarding them because they are awesome and I knew I would find a space for them eventually. They were in storage and I was not only feeling guilty about just hoarding them, but feared that they would get damaged. Since they were all three from Rejuvenation and the lighting that we had already thought about buying was from Rejuvenation, we figured this would be a good pitch to maybe swing a deal. All our partnerships are negotiated individually based on many many things, and for this one, I pitched something that made it a win both for Robyn/Ryan and for Rejuvenation (and I love working with Rejuvenation, love their furniture and lighting and figured that it would not only speed up the project but allow for us to make a better room, which is a win for EHD). Most importantly it just felt appropriate in this home, Rejuvenation is local to Portland and I knew that I could combine their heirloom quality furniture to give that collected yet historic vibe that we were going for.

photo by kaitlin green

Leather Sofa | Swivel Chairs

Here’s Where We Are Headed

This is the rough living room mood board…

and this one is for the dining room.

Now some of this might change, but here is what have selected thus far. Robyn, Ryan, and I went to Rejuvenation on a Saturday for a few hours and looked at every single thing. I got a great sense of what they loved, so afterward I pulled together a plan that I felt confident could work harmoniously. Honestly, because you can customize their pieces so much (more than many other larger brands of their scale) it’s much much much easier to make it look collected and not like a catalog.

Now I know that a sponsored makeover with almost all furniture from the same store might not be relatable to most of you (perhaps not at all) but a lot of the design decisions and problems to solve hopefully will be (like what to do about those shutters, how to choose pieces that “look” collected over time even if they aren’t). Honestly, we all feel so lucky and grateful that we get to do this here together. Ryan is super handy so Brian is getting a buddy to help him build the alpaca shelter this summer See? Win/win! Cheers for designing with friends and calling it work:)

More to come soon. xx

The post “Rejuvenating” My Friend’s Living And Dining Rooms – My Next No-Reno Project:) appeared first on Emily Henderson.

Another Problem SOLVED: The 4 Prettiest/Best Ways To Charge Your Devices On Your Nightstand

Since this is my first time having nightstands in 10 years, I got to experience another exciting thing, figuring out how to manage my charging cords in an aesthetically pleasing way. This might not be an issue for most of you because your cables are very easy to manage…or maybe you keep your devices in another room because you’re SUPER disciplined. But if you’re like me, needing your phone next to you, and having to think this cord issue through a little more than the average person, then this post is for you. Why do I have to think it through? Well, I don’t have any outlets behind my nightstand or bed. The closest one is on a side wall thus forcing me to show about 5 feet of a cord. Naturally, I wanted the prettiest cord option possible that also gave me the plug options I wanted (3-pin plugs and USB ports), one that would sit nicely behind my nightstand, and not cost too much.

So since I was already searching for the perfect extension cords, I started thinking about the other options we have for “electrifying” our nightstands in the prettiest/smartest ways and I came up with four:

Cut A Hole In The Back Of Your Nightstand Drawerphoto by kaitlin green | from: farmhouse primary bedroom

This is potentially the least expensive option if you already have the tools! Let’s say you have an outlet behind your nightstand but would prefer not to see your cords at all and want your device hidden in your drawer. All you have to do is cut or drill a hole in the back of your nightstand. I’m considering doing this with a large drill bit so it’s just big enough to just stick my iPhone charger through it. That way I can practice putting (and keeping) my phone away and have one less cord to look at on top of my nightstand. Emily is very much in favor of doing this and has on most of her nightstands. So that’s option #1.

Say No To Ugly Cords

So while I respect if people don’t mind a plastic cord extension cord, personally I avoid them. Fabric-wrapped cords are SO much prettier and I think less of an eye sore when there’s no way of hiding them…unless you want to paint a plastic one the same color as your wall and attach it with cable clips. But the cords might need to be replaced eventually which could cause more headaches. Since I have to have an extension cord that goes from the middle of my side wall to behind my bed, I wanted a fabric-wrapped cord. I tried to find an affordable white one but all the white ones had a lot of gray in the herringbone pattern so I opted for a gold one. But since I needed to plug in my lamp on the other side of my bed I went with a white and gray one that had a few USB ports. I had some cord length issues to deal with.

3 Outlet Power Strip Surge Protector Indoor Outdoor Extension Cord | 3 Outlet 3 USB Surge Protector Extension Cord

The ones above are the actual ones I bought! The functions, colors, and details (like a flathead plug) were what I needed and wanted. But I found more great options in case mine aren’t right for you:

Brown & Gold Wall Outlet Extension Cord | Flat Plug Extension Cord | 4′ 2 AC 2 USB Extension Cord Dark Heather

I love this chocolate brown cord! It would blend in so nicely on dark floors (but is a showstopper on its own) and has two plugs and two USB ports. Then the square flat plug cord would slide beautifully under your bed or nightstand and not only has 3-pin and USB ports but also two USB C ports for the newer iPhone cords. Then my final pick for our neutral-colored section, this dark charcoal cord is so pretty and would be perfect in a dark-colored room (also peep the flat plug head :).

Fire Resistant Martha Fast-Charging Smart 2-USB Extension Cord | Niko Power Pendant

Ok, now these two are meant to be seen and are priced higher for that reason. So if you can’t avoid having your plugs on display (or like it that way) then you can treat these extension cords like decor! I love that light blue one so much.

Try A Pretty Wireless Charging Pad

Ezra LED Task Lamp w/ Wireless Charger Gold | Single-Device Charging Tray | Single-Device Wireless Charger

But maybe you just want a pretty charming station to sit on top of your nightstand to easily charge your device(s). If that’s the case, then I am a big fan of these three options! That lamp is the perfect secret 2-in-1. You get a cute lamp AND a charging pad. Done and done. But maybe a pretty leather tray would really up your nightstand style. I say go for this Courant charging tray. They are the prettiest on the market and come in a bunch of colors/materials if this leather one isn’t quite right for you. Actually, that little linen charger on the far right is also Courant and is so simple and chic (well, for something electronic:))

Let Your Nightstand Do All The Work

One of my biggest curiosities on this topic is charging nightstands. They seem so practical in a 2024 world and yet the options are currently pretty minimal. These are nightstands that have power strips built into them with a cord that goes into the wall. Sure, there are some on the market that have wireless charging pads built into them but not only did I not find any good-looking options with those but that seems like a technology that could be outdated sooner rather than later. I at least feel comfortable with the ones that have just regular outlets and USB ports. But that’s just me!

I’m sure more will continue to pop up on the market, but for now, these are the ones I thought were pretty options:)

Anton Solid Wood Charging Nightstand | Mid-Century Open Nightstand

The one on the left is definitely the closest one to my personal style. It’s a little chunky (love those legs), is in a pretty wood tone, and has a drawer. The power strip is on the top of the nightstand, in the back, under a lid that opens up. It has two plugs and two USB ports. The other nightstand is also a great one! A classic mid-century modern style with those really cute micro knobs I love so much. The power strip on this one is located on the back of it and also has two plugs and two USB ports.

Quinn Charging Nightstand | Cayman Charging Nightstand

But maybe you like a little more glam? The cutie on the left has a power strip on the back of the top under a lid that opens up. Then the California Casual nightstand on the right has that slightly more visible power strip on the shelf. But that can be visually blocked easily by a couple of books or a decorative box:)

Keane Espresso Wood Charging Nightstand

I love how modern yet traditional this one is! Very chic and could work with almost any style. And what I also love about this nightstand is that the power strip is in the top drawer. But what’s additionally cool is that the back of that drawer has a hole so you can choose to keep your device in the drawer or bring it up on the shelf or the top. That way you can use your phone in bed without having to keep the drawer open. Win-win!

Nightstand with Charging Station | Rattan 2 Drawer Nightstand with Charging Station (Set of 2)

The first thing that is cool about these nightstands is that individually they are all under $100! Secondly, they have that great cane detail if you are looking for something more organic and casual but a little extra special. Both power strips are on top for very easy access if that’s also something you like. Very hotel chic:)

So that’s it! As always hope this was helpful if you’ve been searching for pretty extension cords/charging nightstands or at least got you thinking! Let me know if you have any other “seemingly simple” everyday design agonies you want us to tackle.

Love you, mean it.

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

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Lessons To Learn: The Three River House Renovation Hiccups (A PSA On Avoidable Issues)

We made it almost to the end without big hiccups, but here we are and we get to learn (and share) some new things to avoid during your remodel. After talking to all the designer friends in my life I can tell you that no remodeling project goes perfectly. However, the good news is that every single project creates invaluable lessons, especially things to avoid that you can add to your remodeling experience. No grad program can help you avoid all the nuances that come with a remodel. So while learning on the job is painful, it’s just the way it works (easy for me to say as I’m not the homeowner this time – truly the more painful role to have).

The “Too Big” Hole For Wall-Mounted Faucets

This is the first time this has happened to us. I’m not sure if the tile setter or the plumber drilled these holes. So while the holes are standard, the flanges to cover the holes of our faucets are much smaller. This is similar to the “too big J Box” hole issue that I’ve been spouting off about. Yes, a lot of wall mount faucets (and lighting) are “standard” which is what the plumber or tiler will assume, but triple-check the specs of the product before you make the hole, y’all. This is totally fixable but annoying as the tile installer has to pop off the tile, retile, re-grout, and hope that it looks seamless. Then the plumber can come back in and install the fixtures over top of the smaller hole.

A Very Bad Stain On The Natural Stone Island Top

OOF. I convinced my brother to buy beautiful slabs of natural stone for the kitchen instead of using engineered stone. “It will be almost as durable!” she said. We found this incredible green quartzite. Quartzite is historically much less porous than marble (more similar to granite). We were told that leathering it would be the most durable and ensure that you’d never see a stain, etch, etc (no guarantees, but it was their opinion based on experience). GREAT! And then they installed the stone, it looked stunning. Well, that Friday someone put two cups of something on it, and whatever it was bled into the stone over the weekend. And y’all the rings were INTENSE – two huge circles. We assumed they were sealed so then I was panicking that they were in fact sealed and just extremely porous and easy to stain regardless. Ken/Katie were very adamant that they couldn’t live with stone that stained or etched easily. And no one could confirm if the stone was sealed or not. So Ken got a small slab scrap from them that was 1/2 sealed, 1/2 unsealed and he sampled many basic condiments on it to see how the stone would react.

He waited 40 minutes before wiping it off. It all came off on the sealed side (all stained on the non-sealed side). THANK GOD. Worst case scenario was that the stone, which I made them pick, is actually super porous and if so we’d have to essentially rip it all out and replace with one that wasn’t. So once we realized that the sealed part of it really was highly effective at not being porous we were relieved. We had the rest of the countertops (the perimeter) sealed so that no one could accidentally set anything on it.

I hate playing the blame game and generally try not to but this could have been a real expensive problem to fix. Our stone fabricators came out and tried to suck out the stain with some sort of vacuum and we are currently in the process of getting it out (thank god). Everyone feels hopeful (they need to come back one more time), but meanwhile, we have a backup slab on hold and are really hoping not to have to fabricate another island countertop. But the point is – make sure that they seal BEFORE leaving the fabricators, seal immediately, or cover. And yes, we think we know who set the drinks on it, but no one is fessing up so we just have to move forward, hope that the stain gets out, and never ever allow another unsealed stone into a house project …

Not Specifying Drawer Cabinet Function

This house has a TON of benches, all with drawer storage (it’s comical how much storage this house has TBH). But we didn’t want hardware on them – we wanted them to look more streamlined and seamless (so they looked more like wooden benches, and less like functional storage. But that didn’t get clearly translated to the cabinet maker, at least not in any writing that I could find (again, not sure whose responsibility it was to do this – Architect? Interior designers? Contractor? Homeowner?). So all the drawers were installed and when we mentioned this to the cabinet guy he said he could come on site and switch them out to be the type of drawers to push and it pops out but it would take him about 30 minutes per drawer and they have about 18 drawers (so essentially 2 days). We aren’t sure what he’s going to charge for it. At one point when we were talking about it, we were given the impression that this was an easy switch because it was super easy to do for cabinets, but drawers are more of a thing and they would need to know the no-hardware mechanism ideally before leaving the shop.

The funny thing is that sometimes even putting everything in writing doesn’t work. I think it’s the nature of house building. I have found that so many contractors and subs are working so fast to get stuff done on a million projects that even if it’s clearly written somewhere, digitally, they might miss it. It’s not always a lack of communication, but there is so much happening that it’s hard to keep things straight and none of these guys work on computers a lot and finding old text threads is hard. The best you can do (which we have this whole time) is a walk-through with the subs, then a labeling of things on site, taping up drawings with notes, etc.

Happy remodeling and hope these will save some of you some future headaches:) xx

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Kaitlin Green

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The Link Up: Em’s Favorite Outdoor String Lights, A Very Cute Spring Purse, And An Affordable Face Mask For Instant Better Texture

Happy Sunday everyone! It was a BUSY week getting as much done as possible before Em headed off to enjoy spring break with her family. But don’t worry because we are all set and are happy to hold down the fort:) Ok, let’s link up!

This week’s house tour is the epitome of spring! Bonnie Ashley and Neil Downie (founders of the Australian homewares brand Bonnie and Neil) bought a bungalow in California and they filled it with their classic joyful colors and floral patterns. There are too many wonderful elements to call any single one out! Go check it out here and enjoy.

From Emily: I shopped around, plugged in 4 different string lights and I’m happy to say that I found affordable, WARM WHITE, LED, shatter-resistant string lights that look so sweet without going too “wedding-y”. These are from Lowe’s (full disclosure, I had a partnership with them – but I got to choose what I featured). These are globe lights (round and cute) and feel really appropriate to the property. Plus with the amount of action this yard gets during the summer (so many kids, y’all – it’s like a frat house for 8 and 10-year-olds) I didn’t want to worry about them breaking since some are lower on the fence line. Big fan of these for all of your patios, front porches, backyards, etc. Spring and summer is a coming!!

From Arlyn: I’m finally ready to give my first recommendation of skincare products I’m trying this year to help improve texture, dullness, and pore size. I’m still testing some of the things you all recommended to me, but this Versed mask has been so great I want to tell you about it right away. I’m a month into using it and I 100% see a massive improvement in my skin’s texture. I use it once a week and haven’t had any adverse reactions besides a little peeling, which is what you want to happen. My forehead is so much smoother, my cheeks are so much softer and I haven’t had a single day in almost three weeks where I look at my skin and get bummed out that it’s lacking some glow. I’m a convert!

Halter Tie Neck | Nylon Packable Long Sleeve Half Zip Jacket | V-Neck Ginkgo Cherry Tomato Maxi Dress

A-Line Sea Twig Blue Skirt | Side Wrap Mini Skort | Racerback Full Length Bodysuit

Long Sleeve Midi Arrow Geo Green Wrap Dress | Utility Cargo Pants | Nylon Jazz Dot Green Sports Jumpsuit

NBD but in case you didn’t hear, Diane von Furstenberg just launched A HUGE collaboration with Target. Clothes, decor, and even press-on nails. What an exciting (and more affordable way) to celebrate this incredible woman and the empire she has created that’s all about celebrating women. Here is a round-up of some of our favorite fashion pieces but you have to at least take a look at the whole collection if only for the serotonin boost:)

From Mallory: I’m getting VERY excited for vacation season/summer so the other day I went to Anthropologie and snagged this little bag in green (spoiler: I’m now obsessed). I’m taking my resort-wear wardrobe very seriously this year, so if you too are trying to up your vacay style game join me and we can create our own woven checker bag cult this summer!!!

From Gretchen: I found my new wear-it-everyday jacket–this one from Madewell! It’s perfectly boxy, fairly lightweight, and such a pretty blue/green color, perfect for Spring. It hangs like a less bulky Carhartt jacket and has great, big pockets. Plus, it looks like Madewell is having an “insider sale” through today, and it’s currently 25% off!

From Caitlin: Do you love a sweet little treat? Are you a big beverage fan? BECAUSE I AM, AND Y’ALL HAVE BEEN HOLDING OUT ON ME! Last week I grabbed a few cans of Wildwunder – a super low-cal sparkling drink with all kinds of prebiotics and probiotics AND a nice dose of fiber – AND IT WAS EXTRAORDINARY! I bought the Mango Gold (incredible), the Strawberry Passion (awesome), and the Guava Rose (tasted kind of like lotion, but in a way that people who like Rose flavoring would enjoy – I just don’t have a mature enough palate). They were more a little more affordable than kombucha, which I consume at a horrifying rate, and they made my guts feel awesome (TMI, but true – I’m always happier when I’m consuming probiotic foods, and this one is so easy to drink). I was just blown away by the flavors and the carbonation level – it’s SO BUBBLY. Brought a few to a picnic and they were a unanimous hit – especially with my friends who don’t drink! – and it made me feel VERY proud to share. Long live my new sparkly, feel-better, yummy beverage of choice!

From Jess: It’s been years since I’ve used a purple shampoo but after my blond was looking a bit too brassy towards my roots, I grabbed this highly-rated one by Kerastase and I’ve loved it so far! If you’ve been looking a good anti-brass shampoo I really like this one.

Thanks for stopping by and see ya tomorrow! xx

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Kaitlin Green | From: Our Soake Pool Review (And Reveal) – Can A Small Pool Really Be This Great?

The post The Link Up: Em’s Favorite Outdoor String Lights, A Very Cute Spring Purse, And An Affordable Face Mask For Instant Better Texture appeared first on Emily Henderson.

Cool Windbreakers For Spring Layering (And Walking)…She’s Sporty Now:)

I feel like I reach peak “mom” frequently these days (I just bought a vintage stair basket, sooo…), but perhaps most recently when I blurted out to my team “I’m really into finding cool windbreakers right now” when they were all discussing legit fashion. While I often have “coat confusion” (the disorder where you can’t decide on what type of coat you’ll need and want for the day) once spring comes and I’m walking those dogs, all I want is a light layer on the top half of my body. Just something to separate my skin and the elements without being tight like a T-shirt. While these aren’t for date night or going to get you that job you want, if you also have an outside hobby then maybe you could use a windbreaker or light spring jacket as well. I snagged a few from my closet, shopped a bit, and headed out to the coast with my team to shoot (LOL, just joking we were out there shooting a big patio shoot and I knew that we’d have 2-3 hours of “too directly overhead sun” so we planned some filler shoots while out there). We were on the Washington Bay Coast and if nothing else I hope you like the scenery. It was sooo pretty.

The Navy “Throw-On And Go” With Pockets

Windbreaker | Shorts (similar) | Socks | Sneakers

This one is nice and roomy in the pits (just how I like them) so that it can be thrown over and layer well. It’s my new favorite. It has multiple pockets that close (stop it with the side pockets where things fall out easily) and a little gather to break up the boxiness. Here I’m modeling last year’s Madewell shorts (these are oversized and I roll them up) with some cute 70s-inspired Bombas and my new strangely flattering New Balances (the shape of the shoe when you look down is legit very cute).

A Colorblocked (And Weightless) Cutie

Windbreaker | Shorts | Socks (similar) | Sneakers

I think there needs to be more anoraks or windbreakers that are colorblocked (I only found this one in person but below I’ve linked some really cute ones). This one was (and is still) on sale and is very thin (you can even see your shirt underneath). I love the shape and I actually love that it’s so thin, adding virtually NO weight, just the tiniest layer. I paired it with my favorite summer workout shorts (I also swim in them and have them in three colors, built-in underwear, etc), from Lululemon (size up, I’m wearing an 8 here). These shorts are so comfortable, with a wide waistband that never cuts in, and yet they are cut to flair out a bit on the sides and be more flat on the front = exactly what you want your shorts to do IMHO.

A Lightly Blue And Dare I Say Peplum Number?

Lightweight Jacket | Leggings (similar) | Sneakers

This jacket is new to me and adds a bit more substance and warmth with two light layers. Front roomy pockets house my phone, headphones, and doggy bags. But the little ruffle/peplum bottom is pretty darn cute and why I got it. I tried it with baggier pants but it was too “big over big” so it’s better with tighter leggings (These are old Lulu leggings). And those slightly platform New Balances are sooooo cute (and while I know it’s more “in” to wear this with baggy pants, I’m not into that look and love them with either leggings or shorts).

The Daily Spring Easy Jacket

Windbreaker Jacket | Pants | Boots

I’ve had this one for a couple of years and while it leans towards a jacket (a bit too thick to be a windbreaker) I find that I do wear it a lot when I want some warmth without the bulk (and has ample pockets for dog walking accessories). I like that the collar comes up high and the “boob flap” (technical name, I’m sure) adds some architectural interest. It’s splurgier and I frankly wish it came in a bright color but it’s good

Here are a few that I love from the internet that are more current (and what I would buy if I needed a new one or two). Crucial ingredients are pockets and armpit space (I’m sensitive to this since my boobs are big and I hate feeling trapped in a coat I think more than most people) which lends to its ability to layer. That is all of my windbreaker philosophy now!

Swiftbreaker Water Resistant Windbreaker Anorak

K-Way Le Vrai Leon 3.0 Half-Zip Windbreaker Jacket

Lightweight Woven Side-Snap Anorak

Teca Water Resistant Half-Zip Anorak

International Anorak Hoodie

Ripstop Half-Zip Hiking Pullover

Vintage Nike Pullover Windbreaker Jacket 062

Have a great rest of your weekend. xx

*Photos by Kaitlin Green

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