The Latest
2019

The Latest: 2019

Welcome to the hub for accessing all our latest posts! Easily sort through content by date to quickly find what you’re looking for — you’ll never miss out on the latest updates here.
Street view of a suburban area with brick buildings, parked cars, and a pedestrian bridge labeled "Ryan Family Bridge."
Naperville, Illinois
Class of 2019 Superlatives
The burb west of Chicago posted about 13,400 listings on Etsy last year.
Karen Berner
May 22, 2019
Maplewood, New Jersey
Coolest Suburbs
Maplewood, New Jersey—home to colonial houses sitting beneath blossoming Magnolia trees—can make a suburban convert out of any hip New Yorker.
Marichelle Hills
May 22, 2019
Denton, Texas
Coolest Suburbs
The Dallas burb's downtown area has won awards for being one of America’s best main streets, with family-owned small businesses lining the historic courthouse square.
Alyssa Stevenson
May 22, 2019
Somerville, Massachusetts
Coolest Suburbs
There are old-school pizza spots, midnight screenings of classic movies, and a roving music festival called Porchfest that takes place on—well, porches across the Boston suburb.
Megan Thielking
May 22, 2019
Belmont, North Carolina
Coolest Suburbs
Located just 15 miles from Charlotte, the suburb of Belmont boasts an enticing mix of culture, outdoor recreation, and friendly neighbors.
Hayley Lawrence
May 22, 2019
Evanston, Illinois
Coolest Suburbs
The idyllic first suburb north of Chicago is brimming with excitement and culture—full of restaurants, bars and beaches.
Sydney Stone
May 22, 2019
Pasadena, California
Coolest Suburbs
This Los Angeles suburb nestled in the San Gabriel Mountains is chock full of cultural gems that make it unique.
Carrie Dilluvio
May 22, 2019
Kirkwood, Missouri
Coolest Suburbs
Kirkwood is more than just a suburb of St. Louis. It has its own unique identity and history, which residents treasure.
Fran Mannino
May 22, 2019
Round Rock, Texas
Coolest Suburbs
Round Rock, one of the fastest-growing cities of its size, has a constant outcrop of new restaurants, free live music, and events for sports fans—even for those into quidditch!
Mike Parker
May 22, 2019
Beaverton, Oregon
Coolest Suburbs
The burb's many transplants often say things like “I would’ve moved here a decade ago if I’d known how nice people are.”
Arianne Cohen
May 22, 2019
A Small San Francisco Condo’s Style Is “Gentleman Chic Meets Cozy Traditional”
You have to see the small but AMAZING bathroom reno.
Apartment Therapy Submissions
May 21, 2019
This Famous Playwright’s NYC Loft Is an Exposed Brick Oasis
Here’s your chance to own a piece of New York dramatic history. The expansive Tribeca loft previously owned by playwright Edward Albee is currently on the market for $7.5 million, after undergoing a $1.5 million price cut. But if you’re a fan of Albee’s iconic works like “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?,” then you’re well aware this property is priceless.
Megan Johnson
May 21, 2019
7 Decorative Mirrors That Double as Wall Art
A good-looking mirror can upgrade any area of your home in seconds. But what to do when you want to be able to check your lipstick in something with a little more pizazz than a traditional wall mirror? Good news: we did our research and discovered that the web is brimming with beautifully designed mirrors that look more like artwork than functional decor. From a lip-shaped stunner to a woven starburst style, here are seven artsy mirrors that will instantly liven up your space.
Caroline Biggs
May 21, 2019
A Synesthete’s Home Is Minimal and Muted for a Very Specific Reason
Name: Abi Dare Location: Horfield, Bristol Size: 1000 square feet Years Lived In: 4 years, owned Minimalism isn’t exactly a new design concept these days, but there’s a really valid reason why stylist and blogger Abi Dare is drawn to neutral colors. “I have a condition called synaesthesia, which is when one sense merges with another rather than being experienced separately,” Abi says.
Viv Yapp
May 21, 2019
16 Beautiful Rooms That Prove Black Walls Are Totally Accessible
As much as we love bold paint colors and artful wallpaper, there’s something just so good about plain black walls. They’re luxe-looking, moody in the best way possible, and work in both minimalist and maximalist spaces. Better yet, dark walls are less likely to show wear and tear (does anyone else feel like they spend way too much time purchasing and repurchasing Magic Erasers?!). Here are 16 black rooms that might convince you to join the dark side.
Sarah Lyon
May 21, 2019
9 Bar Stools That Won’t Break the Bank
These aren't your favorite dive bar's stools.
Sarah Lyon
May 21, 2019
A Cozy London House Will Make You Love Wood-Paneled Walls
This small and cozy home was renovated almost entirely by the owners themselves.
Apartment Therapy Submissions
May 21, 2019
How To Choose the Right Size Lamp Shade
Whether you’re buying something new or updating the old, pairing a new shade with a lamp can be tricky. We’ve got a few tips for you to keep in mind while you shop for that perfect shade. Measuring tape Lamp Remember these five things: The bottom edge of the lampshade should fall midway on the neck of the lamp. You don’t want the socket or the switch to be visible. When shade shopping, the shade size refers to the width across the bottom of the shade.
Ashley Poskin
May 21, 2019
Andrea’s Mini Urban Farm
Name: Andrea Bellamy and Ben Garfinkel, their daughter Lila, and Schnoopette the cat Location: Vancouver, British ColumbiaYears lived in: 5 yearsAndrea Bellamy and Ben Garfinkel grow plants in every nook and cranny they can find around their urban townhouse. Potted tomatoes and herbs grace their balcony and front patio, the couple share raised beds with their neighbors above their parking garage, and they planted a woodland garden in their cozy back patio area.
Willi Galloway
May 21, 2019
How To “Custom” Frame Odd Sized Images
We have looked into framing many an odd sized image, and more often than not a custom framing job really breaks the bank. Here is a little tutorial on “custom” framing your own images for far less than a professional framer. standard frame, larger than your image paint (if desired) custom cut mat acid-free artist’s tape acid-free paper 1. Select and paint your frame. We chose a frame in raw wood (saved a few bucks there) and opted to paint it matte green with acrylic paint.
Jessica Tata
May 21, 2019
Quick Tip #2: How To Cover Up Scratches on Wooden Furniture
Every well-run home is teeming with tricks and shortcuts to keep it humming along. We’re sharing our best quick tips — for cleaning, organizing and repairing stuff at home — to save you time and money. Click through for today’s helpful hint, and links to tons more… Use a WALNUT! Just rub a shelled walnut on the damaged area, and watch in amazement as the dings, scrapes and scratches all begin to darken and disappear.
Molly Anderson
May 21, 2019
How To Clean Your Jeans Without Water (In the Freezer!)
Here’s an oldy but a goody that’s even more relevant now as MORE people are doing it… I recently bought my first pair of “serious” jeans. The reason I know this is because as I was standing at the register about to pay A LOT of money for them, a cool dude who was standing next to me at the register said, “Oh, you’re going to like those.” “Do you have a pair?” I asked him.
Maxwell Ryan
May 21, 2019
How To Clean a Power Outlet
This is slightly embarrassing but my power outlets are…grodie. Doesn’t it look like it’s crying out? It would be one thing if it was hidden behind the sofa but this is in plain view above the stove. However with a little elbow grease (about the amount of a Smurf) it’s clean, clean, clean.ToolsQ-tips Formula 409ScrewdriverRazor Blade (if you have excess caulking to remove) 1. Shut your power off.2. Remove the power plate cover.
Geoff Bentz
May 21, 2019
How To Prevent & Get Rid Of Pantry Moths
Pantry moth infestations are most frustrating. At the same time, I am committed to using natural, non-toxic, and mostly no-kill methods to deal with pantry moths. Here are the methods we recommend to get rid of them and effectively prevent further infestation. If you suspect you have pantry moths, first inspect everything in your pantry. Although moths tend to infest flours and grains, you should also check dried fruit, candy, pet food, etc.
Emily Han
May 21, 2019
Before and After: A Cramped ‘80s Kitchen Gets Upgraded to First Class
See this "coffin of a kitchen" open up.
Jon Gorey
May 21, 2019
44 of the Best Chores for Kids, by Age
You're letting them know that you trust them, you're counting on them, and that they're an indispensable part of their family unit.
Shifrah Combiths
May 20, 2019
A 480-Square-Foot Home Is This Designer’s “Unicorn Apartment”
It's not only affordable but it's also comfortable and beautiful!
Apartment Therapy Submissions
May 20, 2019
How to Grow Herbs Indoors
There’s nothing better than cooking with something you’ve grown and harvested with your own hands. But not everyone is blessed with the space for a vegetable garden or even a vertical garden on a balcony or terrace. That’s okay! You can still pretend to be Meryl Streep in It’s Complicated and harvest the heck out of a window full of herbs in your kitchen.  Here’s how.Some herbs thrive indoors, and some don’t.
Molly Williams
May 20, 2019
A Barcelona Home Blends Natural Materials and Minimalism Beautifully
Name: Esther Lopez Aguilar, her partner Dani, and Alma Location: Barcelona, Spain Size: 1,614 square feet Years lived in: 1 year, renting This amazing apartment renovation in Barcelona’s “El Born” neighborhood is full of the soul of its interior designer inhabitant, Esther Lopez Aguilar, the founder of loag studio. Esther shares the minimal home with her partner Dani and daughter Alma.
Lula Poggi
May 20, 2019
Say “Bonjour” to Relaxation in This Stunning Treehouse Retreat in France
If Belle from “Beauty and the Beast” were to live in our modern times, she’d be all over this charming treehouse. About 300 miles south of Paris is this incredible treehouse rental, just an hour outside the historical, charming town Brive-la-Gaillarde. The treehouse is the most idyllic escape that will make you feel like you’re hiding away from reality.The house sleeps four, complete with two bedrooms: one with a queen-sized bed and the other with two twins.
Ashley Ross
May 20, 2019
The Mistake Most People Make When Choosing Between Flat-Rate and Hourly Movers
There's a good chance you're either over- or underestimating how long your move will take.
Brittany Anas
May 19, 2019
We Reimagined Famous ‘Game of Thrones’ Castles as Modern-Day Homes, and We’re Ready to Move In
Welcome to UnReal Estate, where we take characters from pop culture and reimagine their fantasy spaces into homes fit for the “real world.”After eight years, more than 70 episodes, and innumerable fan theories, the grand finale of HBO’s epic fantasy series “Game of Thrones” is finally here. Now that our watch is officially ended—and after this, let’s just say, controversial final season—we thought it would be fun to have some lighthearted GOT fun.
Bridget Mallon
May 19, 2019
These Are the Most Popular ‘Game of Thrones’ Houses by State
At the onset of the final season of “Game of Thrones,” Joybird created a quiz so that you could finally figure out which of the nine main family houses—Stark, Targaryen, Lannister, Tully, Tyrell, Baratheon, Greyjoy, Arryn, and Martell—you belonged to. Are you a ruler who craves power or the love of your people? Would you be loyal to your friend no matter what, or ask questions before sticking your neck out for them?
Tara Bellucci
May 16, 2019
The Cutest Houseboats to Rent, Starting at $99/Night
Start your day waking up to peaceful views of a lake, ocean, or river and end with gently rocking waves lulling you to sleep. What could be better?
Kate Streit
May 19, 2019
These Classic $10 Organizers Will Double Your Cabinet Space
They offer next-level organization, save me time, and preserve my mental balance
Shifrah Combiths
May 19, 2019
Rooms In Bloom: 14 Fabulous Floral Arrangements from Our House Tours
Fresh flowers are one of life’s ultimate indulgences: they’re beautiful, they’re fabulous, they’re gone before you know it. Here are 14 gorgeous, ephemeral arrangements from our House Tours and a discussion of just what makes them work so well— besides their own gorgeousness, of course… Danielle’s Charming, Classic Chicago Walk-Up: Ranunculus Ah, the sweetest little cabbages of the floral world.
Tess Wilson
May 19, 2019
The Things You Need to Do Right This Second If You Are Moving This Summer
Moving is already a pain under the best circumstances, but there are even more reasons to dread it during the summer. It’s when the vast majority of moves take place, says Adam Doron, CEO of Unpakt, a booking and pricing site for movers. Because demand is high, prices are often at a premium and logistics are trickier than in other times of the year. But you don’t have to abandon your possessions curbside, Oregon Trail-style.
Marshall Bright
May 18, 2019
The Most Controversial Design Trends, According to Real Estate Agents
You might not think of real estate agents as experts in interior design. But—given the sheer volume of homes they see—they certainly have some valuable insight to offer. They see firsthand how design can be a detriment when selling a home.Many buyers have the ability to look past cosmetic aspects of a house, like design or finishes, and focus on the important things (the bones of the house, the layout, the location, etc.).
Chelsea Greenwood
May 18, 2019
A Wine Brand Wants to Send You to the South of France to Create Rosé Content
There are worse ways to spend your summer.
Elizabeth Entenman
May 18, 2019
What to Know Before You Go Greige
On their own, the colors beige and gray aren’t especially groundbreaking. But combine them and bam—you’ve got a color that’s as versatile as your basic neutral, but miles more nuanced. Greige, a warmed-up gray, adds serious depth to a room and makes a great backdrop, no matter whether your style is traditional, modern, or somewhere in-between.
Jessica Dodell-Feder
May 18, 2019
Maxwell’s Mix of Old & New
Name: Maxwell Location: Austin, Texas Room Size: 200 square feet My favorite nurseries include a mix of old and new, handmade pieces and family heirlooms. Baby Maxwell’s nursery is a perfect example. With a trendy triangle accent wall, a classic Jenny Lind crib, vintage dresser/changing table, and loads of DIY projects throughout the space, the space feels like it was put together over time rather than lifted from a showroom floor. How would you describe the look and feel of this room?
Lauren Hufnagl
May 18, 2019
Clever Ideas to Make the Most of a Small Laundry Room
Even if you're dealing with a very small laundry space, there are ways you can fit in all the functionality of a much larger room. All it takes is a little ingenuity.
Nancy Mitchell
May 18, 2019
How To Make a Succulent Kissing Ball
Succulents are all the rage these days, which means they’re popping up everywhere. In funky containers, concrete planters, wreaths, even bridal bouquets. But as cool as they are — they often come with a hefty price tag — which is why I decided to make my own. Instead of attempting the more common wreath form, I opted for a modern take on the traditional mistletoe kissing ball.
Kimber Watson
May 18, 2019
We Still Haven’t Recovered from These Popular Trends That Went Way Too Far
It’s a simple truth: The eye tires of seeing the same thing over and over. That’s why trends come and go—first, a detail, color, shape, or form feels fresh and new because you’ve never seen it before. Then you’re seeing it at the mall and your aunt’s house, and finally, like with skinny jeans, you’re just… done. It’s a natural evolution, sure.
Laura Lambert
May 17, 2019
Wingardium Leviosa! It’s Time for Good News
Welcome to Good News, a new column that’s part-link roundup, part-community gratitude journal where we can all share the feel-good moments from the past seven days and end our week on a high note.Congratulations, you made it to Friday! It’s Tara, your News & Culture editor, here to start your weekend off with some grade-A good news.
Tara Bellucci
May 17, 2019
The 8 Most Underrated Items at Target for Renters
While there are some definite upsides to being a renter (you’re free to move when you get bored with your space!)—there are some definite bummers, too. High on the list: Boring white walls, ugly lighting, not enough storage, and hideous finishes. But not to worry. That standard rental can feel a bit more glam with a quick Target shopping spree. I asked some trusted designers for favorite products from the store that also solve renter’s common decorating problems.
Lambeth Hochwald
May 17, 2019
A Tiny 400-Square-Foot NYC Apartment Tackles Utility With Style
Name: Caryn Wallace and husband Location: Alphabet City (East Village) — New York, NY Size: Approx 400 square ft. Years lived in: Owned 2 Years This urban dwelling is the first New York City apartment purchase made proudly by business service manager, Caryn Wallace. It’s located in Alphabet City, a neighborhood in Manhattan’s crowded East Village.
Darragh Dandurand
May 17, 2019
The 10 Living Room Paint Colors Design Pros Swear By
If picking out a paint color was easy, we’d all do it a lot faster. Instead, we agonize over paint chips and swatches, hoping that we don’t make a mistake. Paint may not cost a ton, especially if you’re DIYing the job. But who wants to waste time putting the wrong color up on their walls? That’s why I went straight to the pros to bring you a handful of go-to, no-fail living room colors. Spoiler alert: There are a lot of white and gray shades in the mix.
Danielle Blundell
May 16, 2019