Blue IKEA shopping cart handle with yellow logo in a store aisle.
You’ve Probably Been Pronouncing IKEA All Wrong
You know IKEA, right? Obviously, who hasn’t heard of IKEA! Most of us have spent many hours inside of IKEA, not exactly trapped, but shopping for so long, the store begins to feel like a maze we don’t actually know how to get out of. At least there are Swedish meatballs to snack on when you’re losing stamina during a shopping trip. Now, if you’re a big lover of IKEA, you surely say the retailer’s name often. Chances are, you’ve been saying it entirely wrong.
Mar 3, 2019
Before and After: This Rental Kitchen DIY Is the Best Thing on the Internet
There are only so many changes you can make to a kitchen you do not own. Jess Bunge, Senior Market Editor for Emily Henderson, faced many of the classic challenges of a rental—dated floors, lackluster countertops, an oddly shaped floor plan—but brilliantly worked around them to make the space one to sigh over. The real star of this new kitchen is the countertop cover. With help from her dad, Jess cleverly cut plywood to fit over the gray granite, and built a matching backsplash.
Mar 3, 2019
People Want This Cat Paw Starbucks Mug So Badly, They’re Fighting In Stores
Have you ever wanted a limited edition item so badly, you were willing to fight someone for it? If you answered yes, you don’t need to feel too guilty for that, because you’re not the only one. Apparently, people are so obsessed with a new cup released in Starbucks in China, they’re actually getting into physical altercations in stores. Starbucks has many stylish mugs and tumblers available for sale at each location.
Mar 3, 2019
Your Pet Can Sit on the Iron Throne If You Buy Them This Custom Bed from Etsy
“When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die. There is no middle ground.” – Your cat, probably, telling the dog who is really in charge. If your cat seems to channel their inner Cersei Lannister on a daily basis, then we have the perfect gift for them. Every “Game of Thrones” fan has been sitting with bated breath since 2017, just waiting for the day new episodes will arrive. We only have a little over a month until season 8 premieres on April 14, 2019.
Mar 3, 2019
You’re Not Imagining Things, Your Cat Actually Is More Like You Than You Know
Have you ever looked at your cat and wished you could live their life? They get to spend every day lounging around. If they get up to move, it is usually from the comfort of your bed to spread out on the couch. Their food bowl is always mysteriously refilled without them having to lift a paw. They get treats whenever they want. The spoiled house cat honestly has the perfect life. Which means you might just have the perfect life too.
Mar 2, 2019
Walk-Away Warning Signs: 5 House Hunt Deal Breakers
Before the deal is finalized, it’s important to ensure your dream home won’t come with any hidden surprises. When home shopping, things aren’t always what they seem. Some surface issues are more damaging to the value of the home than they seem, while others are easily fixed. Before you are knee deep in paperwork or empty your wallet for rounds of inspections, consider these five clear warning signs screaming at you to walk away.
Mar 2, 2019
You’ll Love the Way Wallpaper Is Used in This Home’s Master Bathroom
Name: Pamela Thistle, my husband, and two black labs Location: Township of Oro-Medonte — Ontario, Canada Size: 2,100 square feet Years lived in: 2 years, owned My name is Pamela Thistle and I live in this home with my husband Kevin and two black Labs—Harley and Fionnegan. Our home is roughly 2,100 square feet. Slowly, we have been adding our stamp on our otherwise plain new-build home. We have done all the work ourselves and yet we are still talking to each other!
Mar 2, 2019
This Rental House Is the Definition of “Modern Bohemian Farmhouse Style”
Name: Jessica Morris, my husband and our four kids Location: Campbell River — British Columbia, Canada Size: 1,500 square feet Years lived in: 1 year, renting My husband and I have four kids whose ages range from 1 to 9. We live in a smaller 1,500-square-foot rancher and we utilize every inch of our space. We are minimalistic in the sense that we only purchase items we love and we don’t have a ton of clutter around our home.
Mar 1, 2019
8 Unexpected Perks of a Library Card
If you thought your library card was only good for borrowing books, then think again. Turns out you can score access to all sorts of awesome stuff with nothing more than your library card—usually for free. Don’t believe us? Here are eight things you probably didn’t realize you could do with your library card. Who knew your library card could also grant you access to some pretty cool streaming platforms?
Mar 1, 2019
7 Celebrities That Prove Living In the Midwest Is Incredibly Cool
Celebs—they’re just like us! Except that, well, they’re usually multi-millionaires with McMansions in Hollywood to match. That’s why it’s so fun to stumble upon superstars living more low-key lives outside of the greater Los Angeles area and in relatively down-to-earth areas, like the Midwest. From the former Commander-in-Chief to one of the richest rappers in the world, here are seven big names who call the “Middle America” home.
Mar 1, 2019
Before and After: A Super Low ($150!) Budget Kitchen Spruce-Up
And it only took four hours.
Mar 1, 2019
Partner
Spring Refresh: 3 Easy Indoor Projects to Cheer Up Your Home
Spring may seem like it’s far away (especially if you live in the groundhog-hibernation zone) but its official start date is March 20. If you’re anxious to get outside after a long winter, we can’t promise good weather, but we can give you easy projects to prep your home so that when warm weather rolls around, you’ll be ready to enjoy it.
Mar 1, 2019
David & Jeremy’s Cozy & Colorful Style Collaboration
Name: David and Jeremy Location: San Rafael, California Size: 954 square feet Years lived in: 1 1/2 years; Owned David and Jeremy purchased their condo just over a year ago, and they have been busy making the home their own with a colorful sense of style—and lots of DIY projects. The home reflects David and Jeremy’s equally vibrant personalities, and the stories behind their place are hysterical.
Mar 1, 2019
Steve & Heather’s Colorful San Francisco House
Name: Steve and Heather Sacks, kids Cameron and Jasmine, and dogs Rockit and Haley Location: Potrero Hill; San Francisco, California Size: 2,400 square feet Years lived in: 5 1/2 years; Owned Walking into Steve and Heather’s home makes you feel like you have escaped to a relaxing, tropical retreat in the middle of a city best known for its cold and foggy summers.
Mar 1, 2019
Southern Style in Northern St. Paul
Name: Victoria Kirchhoff Location: Downtown St. Paul, Minnesota Size: 780 square feet Years lived in: Rent, 8 months Young professional, Victoria Kirchhoff, carves out her own piece of Texas in a downtown Saint Paul apartment. Although an unlikely spot for a Southern girl, her cozy rustic design successfully brings her roots to the Midwest.
Mar 1, 2019
A Bachelor Pad in Montreal
Name: Yamine Gluchow Location: Downtown Montreal Size: 700 square feet Years lived in: 1 year From an Eastern European family, Yamine Gluchow moved into his very own apartment just over a year ago. For him, living on his own is an extremely liberating experience. You’ll never feel as comfortable, nor will you ever have as much control over the decor, as when you live alone. Being surrounded by vintage finds, wood and art makes him as happy as he gets.
Mar 1, 2019
A Dreamy 400-Square-Foot Fort Greene Studio Apartment
Name: Emily Schildt, Co-Founder of Thing of Wonder Location: Fort Greene — Brooklyn, New York Size: 400 square feet Years lived in: 1 year Emily’s apartment is all the proof you need that living in a small space doesn’t have to mean going short on style, and that with a little ingenuity a smaller space can live just as well as a much larger one.
Mar 1, 2019
A Simple & Bright Beach House on the Mediterranean Coast
Name: Alicia Peiró Location: Sagunto — Valencia, Spain, Size: 645 square feet Years lived in: Owned 11 years I don’t know if was the amazing and bright light, the warm materials or the sensation of being next to the Mediterranean sea, but this place completely stole my heart. Alicia, is an amazing photographer and her work is full of light, amazing stories and beautiful color. Her love for design is palpable in all the places of her home.
Mar 1, 2019
A Bohemian Meets MCM Dallas House (+ Perfect Patio)
Name: Melanie and Dalton Tarver Location: Dallas, Texas Size: 1088 square feet Years lived in: Owned 3 years Melanie writes: “My home is a mid-century traditional built in 1950. I have lived here for three years with my husband Dalton and two pups, Addie and Mr. Cooper. It’s in East Dallas which has a bit of an eclectic vibe and really feels like an escape from the city without being too far.
Mar 1, 2019
The Mascot Owners’ Free-Spirited Full House
Name: Liz and Josh Carey (+ 3 human children and 2 canine children) Location: Santa Clarita, California Size: 2,400 square feet Years lived in: 1.5 years, rented Liz and Josh, owners of the well-being shop Mascot, are the youthful heads of a full household. With three children ranging from 14 to 22 years-old and two lively pups, there’s a lot of activity and a lot of opinions to consider.
Mar 1, 2019
Get the Look: Vermont-Inspired, Cozy Farmhouse Vibes
A country style retreat within the city, Nick & Spiro’s Chicago home takes you back in time to a slower pace and peaceful way of living. Whether you’re looking for country inspiration for your home or cabin you’re sure to find something here – from DIY throw pillows and curtains to antique inspired furniture, Nick & Spiro’s home has it all!
Mar 1, 2019
A Calm, Minimal Warehouse Conversion in London
Name: Sarah and Mike Location: Stoke Newington, London Size: 500 square feet Years lived in: Rented for a year Tucked behind the indie shops, vintage boutiques and artisan delis in Stoke Newington in London, is Sarah and Mike’s modern minimal home. The converted warehouse apartment has kept its original exposed brick wall, but is softened by lots of beautiful artwork and interesting objects, like vintage bows, handmade ceramic vases and hand-painted woodblocks.
Mar 1, 2019
Carl & Ben’s Modern Art Collective London Flat
Name: Carl Blucher & Ben Location: Hackney; London, UK Size: 900 square feet Lived in: 1 year; Owned Carl has built his career curating gorgeous collections for retail stores throughout London, and his home is filled with the best furniture, art, and objects he has found. Located in a classic Victorian mansion, Carl’s flat is the exact opposite of what you expect to find in an old Victorian building.
Mar 1, 2019
Get the Look: A Home Full of Second-Hand Treasures
Hannah and Jean’s 1920s home in Australia is filled with amazing pieces sourced from Gumtree, discovered in op shops, and passed down from family and friends. If you don’t have a steady supply of secondhand treasures, don’t fret, because now you can shop the style!
Mar 1, 2019
Get the Look: Scandinavian Style in South Africa
Georgina and Gideon’s Cape Town home is full of unique pieces designed and/or made by Gideon, incredible textiles purchased on their travels, and treasured family pieces passed down for generations. If you don’t have access to heirlooms, airfare, or a powder coating gun, don’t despair—now you can shop the style!
Mar 1, 2019
Get the Look: A Tropical-Vintage-Folk Flat in Barcelona
Hortense’s Spanish home is cozily filled with beloved pieces—as she noted, “Every object or piece of furniture has a story.” She searched hard for each and every piece, but I’ve done the work for you!
Mar 1, 2019
Get the Look: A Sophisticated Classic Modern Apartment
Jonny and Aimée’s Chicago home is “light-filled, chic, and well-designed,” filled with classic pieces in black, white, and brass at a variety of price points—which makes it all the more fun to shop the style! Chair — Similar: Overstock.
Mar 1, 2019
Get the Look: Minimal & Airy Arizona Adobe Style
Krysta and Joel’s modern adobe in Tucson started its life as a moccasin workshop a century ago and now serves as a guest home and a location for photo/video shoots. The spare furnishings allow the adobe walls, concrete floors, and gorgeous wood ceilings to shine—and now you can shop the style!
Mar 1, 2019
Get the Look: Sleek Black & White Scandinavian-Inspired Style
Lisa’s Australian home is furnished in a minimal, modern, black-and-white style that’s actually very obtainable, so it’s time to shop the style!
Mar 1, 2019
Get the Look: A Clean White Dream in NYC
Stephanie’s West Village apartment is a dream of airy, light-filled spaces furnished with only beautiful essentials, all in a palette of white, grey, and black. This is the perfect way to decorate an ultra-plain apartment, so if that’s what you’ve got, you’ll especially want to shop the style!
Mar 1, 2019
Isabelle’s Top Floor Flat of an Old Converted Church in London
Name: Isabelle Palmer, the Balcony Gardener Location: Hampstead; London, United Kingdom Size: 3 bedrooms Years lived in: 14 years; Owned Isabelle Palmer has made a career out of small space gardening, and it’s not hard to see how her home has inspired her business. Isabelle’s flat is a top-floor treasure inside of an old converted church in London’s leafy Hampstead neighborhood. Living in one place for the past 14 years, Isabelle has constantly reinvented the space.
Feb 28, 2019
Tamasyn’s Colorful, Patterned London Flat
Name: Tamasyn Gambell Location: Bow; London, United Kingdom Size: 2 bedrooms, 1 bath Years lived in: 3 years; owned Who else lives here: Tamasyn’s boyfriend Jamie and their baby Stepping into the home of Tamasyn Gambell, the first thing you notice are the patterns and collections, but go deeper into the home and you will see that her use of pattern and color is united by nature themes which lend a tranquil feel to the home.
Feb 28, 2019
The Hottest Real Estate Listing for February 2019 Would Cost You $37,000 a Month
Whether or not you’re actually in the market for a new home, scrolling through real estate listings can be habit-forming. Looking at all the cool living spaces available can be oodles of fun, even if they’re halfway across the country or seriously out of your budget. Case in point? One of Trulia’s most popular listings this month: This stunning nine-bedroom, 10-bathroom mansion in Encino, California. At a listing price of $7.
Feb 28, 2019
Enjoy Renting Because Homeownership Really Does Suck Up All Your Cash
You saved up that down payment—and those extra closing costs. The furniture has been bought and the rooms have been painted. You’ve sent the movers a deposit and even paid your first mortgage payment! You’re past the most stressful financial part of homeownership, right? Not so fast. A large portion of American homeowners say they’re still facing financial anxiety—even after move-in day.
Feb 28, 2019
Before and After: This Basement Living Room Was Lacking a Wow Factor
This garden-level space was the home’s entrance, office, guest room, and living room all in one, and though it was full of intriguing art, fantastic patterns, and great furniture, it needed a little something to make it as welcoming and cozy as possible. Removable wallpaper to the rescue!
Feb 28, 2019
Partner
4 Interior Design Students Share Their Favorite Tips for Refreshing Small Spaces
No one knows interior design better than interior designers, and no one knows small spaces better than students living in New York (#studioliving), so it makes sense that interior design students really know how to make small spaces sing.
Feb 28, 2019
A Couple (and 3 Cats) Beautifully Renovated This Old House
Name: Sara Ruch, husband, and three cats Location: Jersey City, New Jersey Size: 1,500 square feet Years lived in: 1.5 years, owned My husband and I bought this home in the fall of 2017, after searching for close to a year in the Jersey City area. We knew we wanted a single family home, and the process was so much longer and more competitive than we imagined. We were lucky to have our offer accepted on this home, which was previously owned by the same family for many years dating back to WWII.
Feb 28, 2019
This Is How You Get a Perfect 850 Credit Score
In the world of credit, establishing a credit score of 850 is like being granted a lifetime achievement award. Both FICO and Vantage—widely used credit-scoring models—consider 850 to be the highest possible credit score. The score is perfect. Exceptional. Untarnished. But… is it possible? The short answer, according to experts: Well, yes. But an 850 credit score takes time and strategy.
Feb 27, 2019
The Least Expensive City to Own a Home in Every U.S. State
When it comes to owning a home, it’s all about location, location, location. The city you choose to put down roots will affect so many aspects of your life, including the home you can afford. While certain urban hubs are notorious for being unaffordable, there are other markets that make buying a home just a little more achievable. Wondering where housing costs are lowest in your state? Yearly, the Census Bureau produces the American Community Survey (ACS), which asks U.S.
Feb 27, 2019
How a $300 Portable Washing Machine Makes New York City Actually Livable
Living in New York City brings its fair share of rewards and challenges. For me, the biggest continuous struggle—even after almost a decade in NYC—was doing laundry (#blessed, I know). When I lived in Brooklyn, my building had a basement laundry room, but it was creepy down there and I learned the hard way that the super locked the room at 9 p.m.—with my wet clothes trapped overnight in a washing machine.
Feb 27, 2019
4 Ways to Achieve an Anxiety-Friendly Home
Designing a cozy home isn’t just about on-point aesthetics. Have you ever thought about how your home actually makes you feel? Interior designers and therapists alike believe home design influences your well-being and emotions, and can even exacerbate your anxiety and stress levels. Whether you are facing clinical anxiety or situational stress, creating a peaceful living space is a great first step toward preventing—and managing—stressful emotions.
Feb 27, 2019
Before and After: This Bathroom Answers the Question “Can You Paint Tile?”
While this bathroom would have been the absolute height of luxury and style a few short years ago—and it’s still extremely nice—it was basically the opposite of its owner’s style. After a creative, approachable DIY, this went from earth-toned bath to brightly colored… ball pit? Roxanne of @daintylibrarian is a visionary who saw a spa tub and thought, probably, “This could be a lot more fun.
Feb 27, 2019
8 Rooms That Just Might Make You Abandon Your All-White Bedding
For as clean and unobtrusive as all-white bedding can be, it’s also a bit, well, boring. So we searched our home tours high and low for eye-catching bedding–that isn’t plain white—to show just what a little color and pattern can do in a bedroom. Here are eight bedrooms that might make you rethink your all-white bedding. A little color goes a long way in an all-white room.
Feb 27, 2019
A KonMari Cleanse Allows This Couple to Live Comfortably in a Small NYC Home
Name: Erica Riha and fiancé Location: Upper East Side — New York, New York Size: Under 500 square feet Years lived in: 2 years, renting My fiancé and I moved into our Upper East Side apartment a few years ago after living in a much larger Queens one bedroom. We both work on West 57th Street and moved to have a shorter commute, the trade-off being less space; I’m an interior designer so I knew I could handle the challenge.
Feb 27, 2019
How You Can Use Chopsticks to Seemingly Double Your Fridge Space
This quick trick instantly delivers more space—just by raiding your utensil drawer.
Feb 27, 2019
Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard Created a Plant-Based Baby Line (and OMG, There Are Sloth Diapers)
In between juggling film and TV roles, being a wife, mother and getting her zen on with the help of organization photos, Kristen Bell somehow managed to find time to launch a line of baby products with her husband Dax Shepard. This week, the couple announced a collection of baby goods named Hello Bello, an adorable moniker that pairs well with Kristen and Dax’s reputation for being unbelievably cute at all times. There’s even a nod to K-Bell’s favorite animal—the sloth.
Feb 26, 2019
Chip & Joanna Gaines Just Bought a Literal Castle
This is the ultimate fixer upper.
Feb 26, 2019
Before and After: This Is Not a Minimalist, Monochromatic Bathroom Makeover
This master bathroom was perfectly fine, but certainly not in keeping with the rest of Studio DIY’s vibrantly playful, creative, fun, and always-intriguing design sensibility. This one is definitely not a minimalist, monochromatic makeover. Studio DIY turned an ordinary bathroom into something undeniably fabulous. The green tile on its own is utterly glorious, a lush color that would be the statement in many bathrooms.
Feb 26, 2019