Before & After: Saying Ta-Ta to a Tile Floor
When her sister-in-law was ready to update her kitchen, Cathy knew she could make an impact while keeping most of the kitchen intact by painting the cabinets and making the biggest update to the floor. From Cathy: “Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater.” I am a firm believer in trying to make the most of the existing elements in a space before considering replacing or changing them.
Nov 16, 2016
Clash Course 101: How To Set a Mix-and-Match Table
I don’t know about you, but I’m constantly committing to hosting the holidays or big events, while completely ignoring the fact that, when it comes to dinnerware, I’m extremely underprepared. Something just happens to me in that moment where I get swept away with the anticipation of a great evening surrounded by family and friends and I subconsciously fail to recognize that in no way, shape or form do I have twenty-plus matching settings of any kind of dinner, stem or flatware.
Nov 16, 2016
Think You Can’t Entertain Because Your Place Is Too Small? This Couple Does, in 350 Square Feet!
Natasha and Rob live in a tiny space — just 350 square feet. With so few feet to work with, if you don’t put a little work into your space planning, you’re not going to have a very functional environment. But this clever couple doesn’t just tolerate their small NYC home; they cook in it, relax in it and yes, even entertain in it.
Nov 16, 2016
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How to Make a Modernist Mantel
No fireplace? No problem. Hang your stockings under a modernist “mantel.” It takes 10 minutes to make, and it’s a great way to step up your style this holiday season. (We checked with Santa, and he confirms this won’t impact his deliveries.) Our toolkit: Command™ Picture Ledges and Hooks. They’re easy to hang and even easier to take down when the holidays are over (although we think we’ll keep the ledges a little while longer).
Nov 16, 2016
5 Things to Keep Close When You’re Cooking
(Image credit: Leela Cyd) From Kitchn → 5 Things You Should Always Keep Within Arm’s Reach of the Stove
Nov 15, 2016
Crowd-Tested Appetizers and Snacks That Will Be a Hit At Your Next Party
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, a small pre-bar-hopping cocktail hour or even ordering in some take out for a lazy sunday with friends, there’s a simple secret to making the most of the day: Have a snack on the table as soon as the first guest arrives. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate—even just a small bowl of chips or nuts will get the job done.
Nov 15, 2016
Bed Bath & Beyond Wants You to Drink While Holiday Shopping
Bed Bath & Beyond has been trying to think outside the (big) box this year. The retailer’s newest plan to boost its bottom line? Opening a bar and restaurant in Brooklyn. The New York Post is reporting that the company is planning to open a restaurant serving wine and beer as part of its BEYOND at Liberty View store in Sunset Park, Brooklyn.
Nov 15, 2016
Color Palettes to Make “Shadow” (Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year) Work in Your Home
In case you missed it, Benjamin Moore announced its Color of the Year for 2017. Shadow 2117-30, a deep purple that can lean more toward a smokey charcoal or a lighter violet depending on the light, came out on top for the paint brand. In honor of the celebrated hue, we’ve put together four different palettes that work with a deep, rich purple so that, no matter your taste, you’ll be tempted to incorporate the in-style shade somewhere in your home.
Nov 15, 2016
A Sleek, Urban Loft in An Old Cheesecake Factory
Name: Carlos Location: Williamsburg — Brooklyn, New York We were looking for something with character that felt like New York – we didn’t have a big renovation budget but were willing to find the right space and do our best to personalize it. Since we’re both expats we wanted a home that felt relevant to its geography and it doesn’t get much more New York than a former cheesecake factory!
Nov 14, 2016
Your New Winter Hobby: Custom Candle & Container Combos
It’s that time of year where we prepare to hibernate. That means cozy socks, piles of blankets, and lots and lots of candles. Thankfully making all those candles on your own is easier than you think. The best part about it is that you can make candles that are completely custom for you — which means your favorite scents in containers that match your style or space. Here are nine great DIY candle and container combos to help keep you busy (and cozy) this season.
Nov 14, 2016
3 Space Maximizing Lessons To Steal from This Butler’s Pantry
(Image credit: Apartment Therapy) From Kitchn → 3 Lessons You Can Steal from This Fancy-Pants Butler’s Pantry
Nov 14, 2016
These Essentials Make Entertaining in a Small Space Easier
Throwing a party in a few hundred square feet is no easy feat, but it absolutely can—and should!—be done. By inviting people over one night for dinner or drinks, you’ll bear witness to one spectacular magic trick: As you fill your space with more and more people, you’ll find your tiny apartment feels bigger than ever. But before you do, it’s wise to make sure you have your space ready.
Nov 14, 2016
Before & After: Shiplap Boosts a Blah Bathroom
Chrissy’s bathroom was standard, outdated builder grade blah. She transformed the space into something warm and welcoming without any major renovations. From Chrissy: The bathroom before consisted of builder grade oak cabinets and a mirror with no frame. The cabinet over the toilet was bulky and made the bathroom feel smaller.
Nov 14, 2016
The Warm Industrial Look: 14 Kitchen Style Statements to Try
Are you smitten with the hardworking look of industrial kitchens? If you’re planning to re-create the look in your own home, here are a few details that are worth stealing. Scott and Kristan built the beautiful copper pipe shelves (shown above and in the lead image of this post) in their Los Angeles home.Rustic wood and brackets make for beautiful open shelving in this kitchen from House Beautiful.
Nov 14, 2016
9 Ways to Save Money on Gifts This Holiday Season
From Apartment Therapy → Ways to Spend Less on (Still Great!
Nov 14, 2016
Is it Worth it?: How Expensive Dishwashers Stack Up
(Image credit: Anne Wolfe Postic) From Kitchn → What Separates an Expensive Dishwasher from a Cheap One?
Nov 14, 2016
5 Things Super-Organized People Do on Sundays
Nov 13, 2016
Black is the New Black: 8 Deliciously Dark Kitchens
Fall always has me turning toward dark, moody spaces, and this autumn I’m especially drawn to dark kitchens. While black (or dark gray or navy) might be an unusual color choice for the kitchen, it’s also, as you can see here, an incredibly stylish one. Maybe these eight spaces will be just the thing to bring you over to the dark side.
Nov 13, 2016
Out-of-the-Box Table Setting Ideas for the Holidays
Sure, we think “less is more” can be incredibly lovely, but it has its place. Sometimes, a table calls for more and more…and more. We are always in awe of those that can pull off that ultra-layered look with effortless grace and sophistication. Here, we’ve pulled together inspirations from tastemakers who have created tables that embrace a maximalist aesthetic. These collected beauties prove the possibilities to be endless when it comes to what you can put on the table.
Nov 12, 2016
Megan and Sam’s Mix of Antiques and Art With a New Orleans Speakeasy Past
Name: Megan Workman & Sam Peake, Delia the dog, and Eliot the cat Location: Central City; New Orleans, Louisiana Size: 1,439 square feet Years lived in: 2 years; Owned Real estate agent Megan Workman was searching for a house for a client two years ago, when something unexpected happened. When she entered the side door of a small Central City Victorian and stepped into a bright, beautiful hallway, she thought, “I must make this hallway mine.
Nov 12, 2016
A Gorgeous Apartment Full of Global Finds
Name: Julieta Location: West New York, New Jersey My apartment is a two bedroom located on the waterfront and right across the river form New York City. I’d like to compare it to Battery Park City but much quieter and less commercial. I love the fact that I was the first one to moved into this apartment after living in a prewar building in NYC. It’s brand new and super clean. The view is absolutely stunning and I have NYC views from every room, even the bathroom.
Nov 11, 2016
These Crowd-Pleasing Songs Belong on Every Party Playlist (Ever)
Based on nothing other than anecdotal evidence, I’ve formed this opinion that are there two types of party hosts: Those who create carefully curated audio ambiances for any event, and those who just hit play on whatever pre-made playlist or Pandora station seems to fit the occasion. Our panel of party experts have only served to validate my highly unscientific hypothesis.
Nov 11, 2016
Consciously Uncoupled: 7 Solo Activities to Enjoy This Winter
Two major things tend to happen come winter: One, it gets cold and finding things to do—honestly, just leaving the house—becomes a chore. And two, if you’re single, it feels like everyone around you is coupling up. Winter feels like a time to be cozy and romantic, but sometimes the best thing you can do is take this time to focus on yourself.
Nov 11, 2016
Before & After: A Perfectly Finished Finnish Cabin
Minna’s gorgeous cabin is a stunning and serene oasis, but it wasn’t always that way. When they first bought the cabin it was far from what Minna had envisioned. But after some impactful changes, she transformed the space. We’re ready to move in! From Minna: I remember how lucky we felt when we bought this place four years ago. Our “dream cottage” was quite a wreck.
Nov 11, 2016
Pro Designer Solutions for Sharing a Small Space Studio
When you have only 350 square feet to work with, you’ve got to be smart with space-maximizing solutions to create a home that’s both functional and nice to look at. When you share that very small space with another person, you’ve got to be even smarter! Thankfully, designer Natasha — of Natasha & Rob’s Super Smart Small Space video house tour — shared some of the secrets her and her husband credit to living successfully in a super small space.
Nov 11, 2016
The Best Peel & Stick Decorative Tile Decals
Nov 11, 2016
12 Ways to Make Washing Dishes Less of a Chore
(Image credit: Erin Wengrovius) From Kitchn → 12 Ways to Make Washing Dishes Better, Faster, and More Fun
Nov 11, 2016
Ways to Spend Less on (Still Great!) Gifts this Year
For as fun as holiday gift giving can be, it’s also expensive. While your heart may be set on showering all your friends and family with lots of cool presents this year, your budget might not be feeling so generous. Lucky for you, a low bank account doesn’t have to leave you empty-handed. With a little time and creativity, you’ll find there are tons of affordable gift ideas out there; ones that require more effort than funds.
Nov 11, 2016
A Jewel Box in Hell’s Kitchen
Name: Paul & Simon Location: Hell’s Kitchen —New York, New York Our one bedroom Hell’s Kitchen apartment is approximately 625 square feet. We love the neighborhood and have been renting this place for a little over a year. The space is small for two, however, we have managed to make it work by ensuring every bit of space is used. Storage is added through vintage suitcases and an antique armoire.
Nov 10, 2016
Holiday Party Must Have: IKEA Bar Cart Hacks
Bar carts are entertaining secret weapons: 1) They free up kitchen storage from all those liquor bottles; 2) they encourage guests to help themselves; and 3) when styled nicely, they just look so festive, sparkly, and adult-ish —they are party decorations on wheels. While IKEA doesn’t sell one per se, their products offer endless opportunities to hack a bar cart that’ll cost less than a round of drinks.
Nov 10, 2016
Your Complete Guide to Ordering In on Thanksgiving
Each year, when the leaves start to turn and pumpkin-flavored treats become ubiquitous, we start to think about Thanksgiving and its iconic fall spread. How can your mouth not start watering at the thought of apple pie, roasted turkey, and caramelized harvest veggies? But let’s be honest, Turkey Day is a TON of work.
Nov 10, 2016
Mermaid Hair Problems: 11 Cleaning Products Anyone with Colored Hair Needs to Keep Around
Attaining the perfect shade of mermaid hair might be #goals, but bright hair dyes come with serious upkeep and can make a mess, especially if you color your hair at home. If unicorn hair is what you seek, you need to keep these cleaning products on hand—the good news is, you probably have most of them already, so you’re one step closer to the mermaid hair of your dreams. What you need it for: Removing any hair dye stains from your skin, post-coloring sesh—just mix with soap.
Nov 10, 2016
Add This Step to Your Dish Washing Routine
(Image credit: Lauren Volo) From Kitchn → The One Thing I Always Do After I Do the Dishes
Nov 10, 2016
Don’t Throw Out Your Coffee Grounds
(Image credit: Anna Hoychuk) shutterstock From Kitchn → 5 Ways You Can Use Leftover Coffee Grounds Around the Home
Nov 9, 2016
Party Time-Savers: Experts Say These Essentials Are Better Store-Bought Over Homemade
Here is a short list of things you’re unlikely to hear at a party: “Let’s start a game of Monopoly.” “Oh I love discussing politics.” And of course, from the host: “I wish I spent more time in the kitchen and away from my guests.
Nov 9, 2016
Before & After: A Modern Update for a Brooklyn Bathroom
Remember Sophia and Leon’s Manhattan apartment? Last week we witnessed the transformation of their kitchen, and this week we’re looking at the overhaul of the unit’s main bathroom. While the old bathroom wasn’t yet completely falling apart, it had poorly installed, mismatched fixtures — and the fact that it needed to serve for three people meant extra storage space would be welcome.
Nov 9, 2016
Before & After: Adding Wow to a Home Workspace for $35
Sara is running towards the thesis finish line (go Sara!) and decided to revamp her work space to make it more comfortable and inspiring. Her sister gave her a back-friendly desk as a gift and she was able to add color and style to the space for under $35! From Sara: Since last month, I’ve been working from home two or three times a week because I am way more productive there and, as I have the deadlines for my Ph.D. thesis looming, I can’t afford any distractions.
Nov 9, 2016
An Actor’s Modern New York Apartment Gets Warmed Up
Project by: Carrie McCall of CKM Home Design Location: New York, New York Springtime in Central Park year-round? Yes, please! Good thing Carrie McCall of CKM Home Design figured out how to give one homeowner just that with a large-scale cherry blossom mural right next to a floor-to-ceiling window.
Nov 9, 2016
The Evolution of the Perfect Studio Apartment Layout, Illustrated
Emily Schildt, co-founder of Thing of Wonder, lives in 400 square feet in Brooklyn. But beyond the challenge of living in a small space, she also has to tackle the challenge of living in just one room. Not only is her Fort Greene studio apartment lovely, it’s also highly functional…for her! As an avid entertainer, she’s chosen a furniture layout that works for how she lives — which in her case means the unusual choice of placing her bed right near the front door.
Nov 9, 2016
Love Planning Ahead? You Can Prep These Things Now for Thanksgiving Dinner
(Image credit: Brent Hofacke) shutterstock From Kitchn → Here’s What You Can Prep Now for Thanksgiving Dinner
Nov 9, 2016
Techniques for Decluttering Without Emotion (When You’re an Emotional Person)
So, you’re a “stuff” person. It’s okay—a lot of people get emotionally attached to their things (myself included!) to a point where it’s hard to get rid of anything that has any sort of meaning to it. But you probably know, on some level, that collecting things you don’t need and don’t use can lead to a ton of clutter, especially if you live in a small space or lack an abundance of storage.
Nov 9, 2016