Aurelia Butler

After a diving accident at 17 left Maegan Blau paralyzed, she experienced firsthand how draining it can be to find an accessible place to live. After the accident, she stayed at home with her parents, and during college at Arizona State University, where she got a degree in environmental studies, she lived in an on-campus ADA-compliant apartment. But after graduation, she and her boyfriend (now husband), Chris, went hunting for an apartment that was accessible and stylish. She longed for all the bells and whistles any 20-something might want: natural light, room to entertain, a big closet, outdoor space, etc. “The floor plan was important to me,” Maegan explains. “I wanted it to feel open — not just for my wheelchair but also the vibe.” Bonus points if it happened to reflect her personal style, a balanced, moody mix of muted cool tones and earthy textures. Finding a perfect spot didn’t come easy. “With a lot of the apartments, I couldn’t even get into the bathroom, and any accessible apartment I found had a year-long waiting list,” Meagan says. “My mission is to create homes that are beautiful and functional.”Luckily, her frustration led to inspiration. Given the difficulty of finding what they needed in a rental, Maegan and Chris decided to buy a place. Once they found the perfect property, she worked with a contractor friend to add her own touches. Impressed with her design choices and understanding of accessible accommodations, Maegan’s friend encouraged her to think about becoming a professional interior designer. It made sense in a way: “My family owned a furniture business and I was obsessed with watching HGTV as a kid,” Maegan says. She also grew up painting her childhood guest bathroom way too many times. “I’m sure there are layers of paint still there,” she says.Her design firm, Blue Copper Design, became official in 2018 with the tagline “design for everyone.” They specialize in renovations that are visually appealing and suitable for various disabilities, depending on the client. “My mission is to make homes more accessible, whether that is with a barrier-free client or not,” she says. “I want people to have homes that are beautiful and functional.” Luckily, she has the knowledge and experience to deliver just that. “In the beginning of being paralyzed, doctors, nurses and therapists always told me, ‘You have to be an advocate for yourself,'” Maegan says. “But not everyone with a disability knows what they want from a design standpoint. That’s where I come in.”Here, Maegan shares some of the most rewarding recent projects from her design portfolio. South Mountain (Phoenix, Arizona) Life Created PhotographyThis bathroom, built in a wet-room style (1), has a curbless shower entry (2) and incorporates a ledge and grab bar for an easy transfer in and out of the bathtub (3).Hear Maegan talk about this projectFor captions, click the CC button.
[embedded content]Client: Young bachelor, new wheelchair userFocus: Functional bathroom“This home is for a man in his 20s, who was newly disabled. He has a spinal cord injury, so that was a pretty big life transformation. The original bathroom worked really well, so I didn’t have to move walls or any plumbing. We just reworked the functionality of things. It was very tan, so we wanted to elevate the style of the house. Blending the warm tones of the orange tile with the darker, cooler tones of the gray was a good way for me to do that aesthetically.Even though he was paralyzed, he was taking baths and able to get in and out of the bathtub. I was amazed by that, because I typically don’t put bathtubs in for people who are fully paralyzed. However, I kept the bathtub, but thought, How can I make this easier and safer for him to get in and out of? So, we did more of a wet room-style, where the shower and bathtub are enclosed in one space.Then, I built a ledge for him to transfer onto, catch his breath and have some stability. We also put a grab bar there for him to get in and out of the bathtub. There was still plenty of room for a really nice roll-in shower, too. And since he had a lot of products, we created a shampoo ledge. It’s the perfect height, so that when a full-size shampoo bottle is sitting there, he could access it.”Silver Creek (Queen Creek, Arizona) Life Created PhotographyThis accessible room is part of an open-plan kitchen-living room (3) and includes deep, under counter drawers (2) and narrow countertops (1).Hear Maegan talk about this projectFor captions, click the CC button.
[embedded content]Client: Young couple, busy professionalsFocus: Living room and kitchen refresh “We added some customizations to their builder-grade home. We renovated the kitchen, then extended that into the living room, which is shown here. It’s a big, open floor plan. The design challenge here was creating the proper scale because the living room wall is huge. It’s about 20 feet high, so we got a bigger TV to fill the space and scaled up the cabinetry details to allow for a simple, clean design. In order to make the space feel cohesive, we used the same blue for the cabinets as we did in the kitchen. We installed mesh paneling on the middle door of the media center so their electronics would still work. They also needed drawer storage, which are almost four-feet deep. The drawers are easy for able-bodied people and people with disabilities to keep things organized.” Condo Glow-Up (Scottsdale, Arizona) Life Created Photography Ample room around the bed (2), a bed height of around 20 inches (1) and a properly secured rug (3) help make this bedroom accessible.Hear Maegan talk about this projectFor captions, click the CC button.
[embedded content]Client: A client’s daughter, who uses a wheelchairFocus: Modern floor plan, including larger bedroom layouts, and accessible furniture“The clients were renovating this condo for their daughter to rent from them, but also wanted to transition this to a short-term rental property when she moved out. We focused on creating a more modern floor plan that utilized the space better. We opened walls, moved the kitchen, created a work-from-home area and completely reimagined the primary bathroom. We added accessibility features like a curbless shower in the primary, an open kitchen, wider doorways and large bedrooms to accommodate more people looking to rent this home in the future.For this particular bedroom, we found these blue nightstands on Facebook Marketplace. We had the space to have three feet on either side of the bed, which is good for most assistive devices as well as a Hoyer lift. This person didn’t need a lift, but it’s just nice to have. It was really important for this client to have a lower bed to transfer onto, so we scoured online for that. The bed height is about 19 to 20 inches, which is the perfect transfer height.Since we did hardwood flooring, we added the rug to cozy it up. That’s a common misconception people have with accessibility. They think they can’t have rugs, but they can be really helpful in transfer areas if they’re properly secured. They can be in living rooms and bedrooms — anywhere that you’re transferring from a chair to a piece of furniture. I don’t like to put rugs in hallways, or runners and mats in the kitchen or bathrooms, because that can be cumbersome and a trip hazard.” Oak Hill (Austin, Texas)Madeline Harper PhotographyThese homeowners didn’t need accessibility, but ample room around the furniture (1), accessible decor (3) and an open floor plan assured anyone who visited would be able to move freely (2).Madeline Harper Photography Hear Maegan talk about this projectFor captions, click the CC button.
[embedded content]Client: Young coupleFocus: Full renovation “This was my first full project outside of Arizona. Accessibility wasn’t really a priority for this couple. However, we opened up the floor plan and removed a bunch of walls. The house needed to be completely gutted.We became friends, too, so we wanted to make sure the living room felt open enough, so I wouldn’t have any issues if I came to visit. On a professional level, I conquered a lot of logistical challenges with this project, like shipping pieces, including the cabinet in the living room, from a vintage dealer in Arizona. They use it as media storage and as a liquor cabinet. We also added other elements to the home like an accessible laundry room, as well as a bigger guest bathroom with a roll-in shower.” Icon illustrations: Ananya Rao-Middleton.Take me back to the issue!Check out all the stories from our first-ever Accessibility Issue, including expert-approved ways to future-proof your home, an interview with Broadway star Ali Stroker and more! Monique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand’s home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, “What’s in My Cart.” More

A year ago, when I moved into my own apartment, I aimed to cultivate a setting that made me feel safe. As a woman born with cerebral palsy, I have legs that bend inward at my knees when I walk, creating a gait that resembles scissors opening and closing with every step. Balance requires a near-constant focus in public, where my eyes perpetually scan for a clear path and I’m always on alert for anything that may act as a restful seat when needed: a bench, a step or in desperate cases a ledge. It can be tiring, though these considerations feel as natural as can be: I have to go to the grocery store and I want to visit a beloved restaurant, and sometimes that can take effort. But in private, I didn’t want to work as hard. When it came to my home, I hoped to mitigate the stress often posed by surroundings through furnishing with accessibility in mind.Laura BertocciAuthor, Kelly DawsonMore than 60 million American adults, or one in four, identify as disabled, so “accessible design” encompasses a variety of solutions. Ease is the goal, whether that is expressed covertly by a sturdy chair or obviously by a ramp into a building — and anyone can use these items, whether out of necessity or not. For me, a checklist of inclusivity involved finding a somewhat firm sofa I could push off from to stand and rugs that stayed in place in every circumstance. I needed armless chairs to swing into and out of and a bed frame that wasn’t too low-slung. And, accepting that a few bumps here and there were inevitable, I preferred a round dining table and an accent chair with soft corners. Most important, I didn’t want to sacrifice style in the name of function. I had no problem buying things on sale, and in fact I crossed my fingers for that. I was ready to search and sift and compare, but I wasn’t going to live in a hospital room.“I didn’t want to sacrifice style in the name of function.”To conserve energy and cover inventory quickly, I first turned to my computer. The best thing about shopping online for furniture is that the dimensions are listed on the same page as the product, making it easy to scroll past options that are too high, too short or just plain ugly. There are aesthetics-heavy retailers with accessible lines, including the Williams Sonoma brand Pottery Barn, but this level of attention is usually an anomaly and these particular furnishings were beyond my budget. Nevertheless, disability requires ingenuity — the proliferation of unrailed stairs, freestanding tubs and extra-deep sofas only builds this personal muscle — and I figured I could tailor options to my needs if I kept an eye out for the proper proportions. As long as most of my furniture fell within a three-foot height range so I didn’t have to bend down or stretch to stand or sit, that was ideal.Furniture from direct-to- consumer brand Article isn’t certified as ADA-compliant, but I found that Article carried a streamlined bed frame, dining table and chairs that were just the right size and height. I cruised the showroom of Living Spaces one afternoon with my mom — who would know better what was best? — and we spotted a navy chaise sofa that was easy on the eyes, legs and wallet. Low-pile rugs were plentiful, so it was only a matter of picking patterns that suited my tastes and then securing them so they weren’t tripping hazards; I bought traditional pads for the larger ones and used adhesive for their smaller counterparts.There were times when luck was on my side — such as when I noticed a leather side chair and a rattan-shaded lamp beside one another at HomeGoods — and other times when dwindling funds forced my hand (IKEA to the rescue!). While the chair was the right height, I bought these pieces mostly for looks and ease of storage, which is part of the game plan whether you have a disability or not. When it came to furnishing my place on the basis of accessible design, it all came down to this: Everyone deserves a home where they can be themselves, whatever that means to them. And I had the privilege to be able to do that on my own terms.In the months since I settled in, my home has turned into a haven of relaxation and a hub of fun. It’s proof that inclusive design can feel warm and inviting, not cold and medicinal, as long as small yet significant considerations are part of the process. Icon illustrations: Ananya Rao-Middleton.Take me back to the issue!Check out all the stories from our first-ever Accessibility Issue, including expert-approved ways to future-proof your home, an interview with Broadway star Ali Stroker and more!Kelly Dawson is a writer, editor and marketing consultant. Her work has appeared in the New York Times, Architectural Digest, Travel + Leisure and other publications.  More

Whether you’re frustrated with today’s limited housing inventory or just can’t seem to find a property that checks all the right boxes, building a house can be a good option. Unlike purchasing an existing home, building a house offers full control of the size and design choices, allowing you to be part of the creative process to truly make it your own.Let’s face it: Building a house from top to bottom is expensive, so it’s important to know the overall cost long before investing in property. The U.S. national average to build a house is $314,999, not including the cost of the land, according to the database of Angi, a home services website, although prices will vary significantly depending home size, location and building materials. Related Stories”Your builder and architect can have a big impact on the cost, as well as the land you buy, the interior and exterior finishes of the home, any permits and inspections you might need in the area and any delays you might experience,” says Angie Hicks, co-founder of Angi.To help you make the right decisions, we checked in with industry professionals, who share current national averages of building costs and timelines, as well as helpful tips for budgeting and where to invest the most during construction. Cost Per Square FootThe average cost to build a house is $150 per square foot, but can cost upwards of $500 in larger cities like New York City or San Francisco. “The size and type of house you choose to build will impact the cost per square foot, but you can generally expect to pay between $100 and $500 per square foot,” says Hicks. Cost Per RoomKnowing the average cost per room can help determine the cost of building a new house. Assuming your house will cost an average of $150 per square foot, here’s how much it costs on average to build each room:Bedroom A small bedroom that’s approximately 400 square feet will cost anywhere between $32,000 and $80,000, while a larger room (about 1,000 square feet) ranges between $80,000 and $200,000. “Adding a room to a home costs $48,000 on average, but can range from $20,900 to $72,600 or upwards, depending on materials, labor and room type,” says Hicks. KitchenMost homeowners choose to allocate a large portion of their budget to designing the kitchen. You can expect to pay anywhere from $35,000 to $95,000 when building a new kitchen, with the current national average being $65,000. The size of the kitchen, its location within the home and the finishes will impact the cost.BathroomAccording to Angi, the average cost to add a full bathroom is between $10,000 and $50,000, which includes a bathtub, sink, toilet and shower.Deck or PorchThe average cost of building a deck is $8,1784. However, Angi found the range is between $4,343 to $12,508. Factors like deck size, deck material costs and the intricacy of your design, will impact the overall price. There’s also the cost of labor to consider. “While a small open porch could cost about $4,000, a wraparound porch with features like lighting, fans, heaters and more could be over $90,000,” says Hicks. How to Save MoneyIt can be challenging to stick to a budget when building a house — especially when you run into unexpected problems. When it comes to finishes and materials, some things are worth the investment, but there are some places where you can save. David Bratton, who has 30 years of experience as a builder and owns Texas-based Watermark Homes, shares ways to cut down on building costs:Reduce the size of the house by eliminating a bedroom or two, or reducing their size.Instead of opting for high-end finishes, choose budget-friendly alternatives that give you the look for less. Design a thoughtful lighting plan over a basic grid layout.Instead of top-of-the-line appliances, go for mid-range products, which can always be upgraded later.Avoid making unnecessary changes, which can result in extra costs and cause delays.Stick with a simple roof frame. In terms of material cost and labor, the roof is an expensive component of a new build. Going for a standard choice is a smart way to keep costs down.Another budget-friendly option is to consider a prefab home, which will deliver to your home site already built. “Prefab home kits are one of the fastest, easiest ways to build a home, whether you want to go sleek and contemporary or a more traditional cottage or ranch design,” says Dan DiClerico, GH’s Home Improvement & Outdoor director. The average cost of a prefab home ranges from $50,000 to $300,000, according to Angi.”Building your own home is a great way to get exactly what you’re looking for,” says David Bratton.Where to InvestOnce you have determined your budget, create a list of must-have items — whether that’s a certain number of bedrooms or a chef’s kitchen with a high-end range — and prioritize them based on your needs. “Think critically about what is important to you and spend in those areas and save in others,” advises Hicks. Interior finishes, from flooring to kitchen countertops and cabinets, tend to be the most expensive part of building a home. “While everyone might choose to spend different amounts on various aspects of their home, most people can expect to spend the most on interior finishes, followed by the land, general contractor, major home systems, exterior finishes, foundation and framing,” Hicks says. While you might choose to invest in luxury finishes or appliances, the systems and structure of the home are the most important. Hicks recommends thorough research to find the right heating and cooling system, a high-quality roof that will hold up over time and setting up your home to avoid potential flooding. “By investing in these things early, you’ll save a lot of money down the line.” To prevent repairs in the future, here are the key areas to invest in:Raimund Koch//Getty ImagesWhat to Know Before Building a House✔️ Building a new house takes an average of eight months. It’s important to be realistic about the timeline and understand that the process can take much longer due to a variety of unforeseen roadblocks. Some of the most common delays include uncooperative weather conditions, waiting on building materials or learning that finishes are backordered.✔️ Hiring the right builder is so important. “Choose a builder you can trust, who has experience, integrity and a very strong work ethic,” says Bratton. Two other key roles that have a huge impact on building a house are the architect and interior designer, which is why Bratton says, “Choose an architect and interior designer who listens to you and will tell you the truth.”✔️ So is your general contractor. A big part of your general contractor’s job is to keep the project on track and guide you through the process.✔️ Set aside money for unexpected expenses. Although the cost of building a house depends on a variety of factors, ranging from the size to the location, Hicks says it’s a good idea to set aside an additional $50,000 on top of your initial budget for any unexpected expenses that may arise. “The most important thing when starting your building project is to understand your budget and stick to it,” Hicks says. This extra money provides a safety net and helps avoid lengthy delays should there be any complications, price increases or necessary building changes.Related StoriesMaria Sabella is a lifestyle writer with a passion for home and interiors — from paint colors and holiday decor to the latest design trends. Her work has appeared in outlets including Better Homes & Gardens, The Spruce, BuzzFeed and Bustle.  More

1Pair Black With Dark GrayMolly CulverDon’t limit yourself to one dark color. This moody bedroom, designed by Meredith Owen Interiors, features dark gray walls and a black four-poster bed, which is topped with a mix of light and dark bedding. Photo by: Molly Culver2Go Black on BlackMeghan Beierle-O’Brien3Try Dark GreenLemon ThistleAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below4Paint an Accent WallJenna Sue Design5Embrace a Moody PurpleMolly Culver6Opt for Warm BrownCHRIS LOVES JULIAAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below7Layer in Different TexturesMICHAEL CLIFFORD8Experiment in a Kids’ RoomStudio DIYThe kids’ bedroom is the perfect place to experiment with bold colors, like Dunn-Edwards’ Aquatic and playful techniques, like textured walls. The dark blue bedroom makes it feel as though you’re swimming in the ocean.See more at Studio DIY »9Create Contrast With White Furniture DIY in ProgressAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below10Go for a Patterned WallpaperTessa Neustadt11Paint a Sunny Space a Dark ShadeMost Lovely Things12Blend Cheerful and Moody ColorsLol JohnsonAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below13Add Grid Molding for TextureBless’er HouseIf you’re feeling adventurous, install grid molding to the wall behind your headboard. When painted a deep gray, Rebel by Kilz, the molding adds a ton of texture and drama to the room.See more at Bless’er House »14Incorporate Black FurnitureCherished Bliss15Mix Dark Green With Natural MaterialsStudio DIYThis earthy green paint, when paired with natural wood accents and tropical greenery, lives up to its name: Deep in the Jungle by Dunn-Edwards. Dark green bedding adds a monochromatic moment. See more at Studio DIY »Advertisement – Continue Reading Below16Bring in Depth Through AccentsPhil Crozier Skip dark walls and instead, weave in dark accents through bedding, furniture and built-in cabinetry. Here, Reena Sotropa of In House Design Group lets floor-to-ceiling black cabinetry double as an accent wall.Photo by: Phil Crozier17Hang Curtains That Look Light and AiryLemon Thistle18Go for Classic Black and WhiteAdam MacchiaAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below19Embrace Earthy GreenMadeline HarperDarken a space by painting one wall a rich green hue, just as ATX Interior Design does here. The dark gray upholstered headboard complements the space. Photo by: Madeline Harper20Paint the Ceiling a Matching HueMolly CulverTake note from Daley Home and extend a moody hue all the way to the ceiling. It also creates an illusion that the room is larger and taller. Photo by: Molly CulverAlyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

Even if we do a great job hiding it, most of us have clutter throughout the house — inside kitchen cabinets, nightstand shelves and the dreaded junk drawer. But, some things are simply not worth holding onto and should be thrown away, recycled or donated immediately. Below, professional organizers share their advice for purging clutter, starting with these unwanted and unloved items. While things like expired spices, stained linens and junk mail should be tossed, you most likely have clutter — like clothing and books — lying around that someone else could put to good use. “If you truly no longer use something — but know it has value, or can see someone else using or enjoying it — then it’s safe to let it go,” says Amelia Meena, founder and professional organizer at Appleshine. Just be sure to call your local donation center to make sure they are able to take the donation. If not, you can call your sanitation department to learn how to recycle the item.Whether you throw it away, recycle or donate, here are the top things professional organizers urge you to get rid of ASAP.Get OrganizedExpired spices and foodIf your refrigerator is overflowing with condiments or your cabinets are cluttered with spice jars, it’s important to periodically take stock of what’s in the kitchen. Ditch all expired ingredients, condiments and spices. Not only will you free up space, but you’ll prevent any health risk involved in consuming expired food. Books you’ve already readRather than letting books collect dust in the closet or sit in a pile on the nightstand, donate them once you’re done reading. “Books in good condition can be donated to book sales, libraries and thrift stores,” says Julie Stobbe of Mind Over Clutter, who warns that books can get moldy, dusty and develop an odor if left in storage for a long time. Shopping and tote bagsStop buying reusable shopping bags every time you visit the grocery store. Keep a few of your favorite tote bags — maybe two or three per person? — and donate the rest. Unworn and unloved clothingYour wardrobe should consist of items you currently wear and enjoy. Purge ill-fitting clothing and pieces you no longer love. Throw away clothes with tears or holes, but donate any items in good condition. “Donating it sooner than later means items will be in style and thrift stores or consignment stores will be able to sell them,” says Stobbe. “Clothing can get damaged when it is packed away for years, and then it’ll likely end up in a landfill.”Eleganza//Getty ImagesExpired or unwanted toiletriesLook under the bathroom sink, says Rachel Rosenthal, professional organizer at Rachel and Company. “This area easily becomes cluttered with unused items, making it a good spot to find expired or unnecessary things.” Clear out expired cosmetics, skincare products or medications, as well as any bulky packaging that are taking up space. Related StoryOld linens, towels and pillows If your linen closet is overflowing with bedsheets and towels, take a moment to toss any stained or torn linens. Any gently used linens that don’t fit your current beds or extra pillows can be donated to most local charities, while old towels, pillows and bedding can be given to most animal shelters. Incomplete toy sets and gamesWhen you live with kids, toys and games accumulate quickly — whether it’s in the living room, playroom or bedroom. Donate any toys your children have outgrown (when’s the last time they picked up that baby doll?). Throw away or try to repurpose (one-of-a-kind art, anyone?) any books, puzzles or games with missing or broken pieces. Keep an eye out for broken crayons, dried out markers or any incomplete toy sets. Miscellaneous wires and cordsThere’s nothing worse than looking for a charger in a bin full of tangled wires. If you don’t know what the cord belongs to, throw it out! “There’s no need to keep cords for devices you no longer own,” says Rosenthal.David Malan//Getty ImagesOld shoesFrom worn-out sneakers to uncomfortable heels, ditch any shoes that you never wear — donating any pairs in good condition. “Don’t hold onto shoes that are too tight or uncomfortable, like those dusty heels you never wear,” says Rosenthal. Takeout containers There’s no need to hold onto cheap plastic containers, especially ones that are stained, cracked or missing lids. Go through your kitchen cabinets and recycle any plastic containers that haven’t held up. While you’re at it, feel free to toss any chipped dishes and glasses, as well as any damaged kitchen gadgets. Extra vases Most of us have received a beautiful bouquet with a glass vase. While you might feel bad tossing the vase, they can quickly take over cabinet space — and how many vases do you actually need? Keep just one or two to show off your favorite blooms. As for the rest? Your local thrift store will happily accept them, or you can try selling them on sites like Facebook Market Place.Cavan Images//Getty ImagesJunk mail and takeout menus As you sort through mail, get in the habit of putting junk mail and takeout menus directly into the recycling bin. If you’ve already got a stack forming in your junk drawer, now’s the time to discard it. Remember to shred any mail that contains your personal information. Related Stories Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries. More

1Keeping the refrigerator exposed.Bogdanhoda//Getty Images2Choosing the wrong paint finish.sl-f//Getty Images”Using the wrong paint finish on walls can be problematic. While many people like the appearance of flat or matte paint, it’s not ideal for kitchen areas. An eggshell or satin finish is a better choice for easy spot cleaning.” — Theresa Butler, Theresa Butler Interiors RELATED: The Best Interior Paints of 20243Settling for insufficient storage.Damian Lugowski//Getty ImagesAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below4Not making your kitchen yours. Lindsay Layne InteriorsDon’t copy what you see on Instagram and social media. Take field trips to stone yards and get a feel for the slab that calls your name. Stone yards offer a beautiful peek into Mother Nature’s creations! Take photos and videos of your favorites. Visit a tile shop and look for tile that looks like it was made from an element in that slab. If you start coordinating materials in this way, soon you’ll build a story around a design that speaks to your heart, and that’s where the magic happens.” — Lindsay Lucas, Lindsay Laine Interiors5Only focusing on decorative lighting. Gladiathor//Getty Images6Living with a cluttered kitchen counter. Justin Paget//Getty Images”A cluttered kitchen countertop makes the mind ‘hungry’ to see less, so start the decluttering process in the early stages of kitchen design planning. For example, consider having the cabinet designer add a couple of charging or docking drawers to neatly store while conveniently charging them. You should also become more aware of your bad habits around the kitchen area, so you can move away from the mentality of ‘the kitchen countertop is convenient for everything.'” — Georgie Hay, Meridith Baer HomeRELATED: 14-Day Declutter GuideAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below7Picking the wrong materials. sheilasay”One of the most common pitfalls homeowners make is choosing the wrong materials for key surfaces like countertops, flooring and backsplashes. While it’s tempting to select materials based on aesthetics alone, it’s crucial to consider durability and ease of maintenance. For instance, natural stones like marble are undeniably beautiful but can be quite porous, leading to potential stains and requiring regular sealing to maintain their appearance. At Dwellify, we always advise clients to balance style with practicality, ensuring their kitchen not only looks stunning but also stands up to the daily demands of a busy household.” — Alexa Larson, Dwellify8Choosing tiled countertops.slobo//Getty Images”Trends tend to come back around, so while it’s not surprising that the tiled kitchen countertop trend from the 1970s and 1980s is making a resurgence, it’s definitely disappointing. Tiled countertops are so impractical — they’re more difficult to maintain and nearly impossible to keep clean. Especially the grout lines!” — Molly Torres Portnof, DATE InteriorsRELATED: The Best Types of Kitchen Countertops9Overlooking the gap above kitchen cabinets. FOTOGRAFIA INC.//Getty Images”Though some ceilings are taller than others, the standard ceiling height is 8’-0″. Many homes are of a standard height, therefore when you have upper cabinets in a kitchen, it’s best to not have a gap between the ceiling and the cabinetry. It drives me crazy, as it will just collect dust bunnies and other creatures up there. It’s best to close off that gap with either a nice molding or flush filler.” — Linda Hayslett, LH.DesignsAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below10Hanging dinky pendant lights. DigiStu”Avoid pendants that are too small for your island size. Nothing screams builder-grade more than light fixtures that are inappropriately sized. I’d always rather see two larger pendants instead of three smaller ones, if you’re tight on space.” — Jeanne Barber, Camden Grace Interiors 11Incorporating too much color.stocknroll”I like a kitchen in a soft, singular color palette. Since the kitchen usually sees the most activity in a home, it will also likely see the most clutter. Think about kids homework on the kitchen table or island, art projects hung on the refrigerator, calendars, mail, magazines, purses and backpacks hanging on backs of chairs. A kitchen with a soft color palette will absorb these items better and won’t look so confusing and messy.” — Tara Felice Engelberg, Tara Felice InteriorsMonique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand’s home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, “What’s in My Cart.”Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

1Splurge wisely. Sarah Voigt PhotographyEvery room deserves a piece or two that feels extra special, whether it’s a gem of an antique find or a piece of furniture you discovered on a trip abroad. For this dining room, designer Tara Felice Engelberg of Tara Felice Interiors focused on the seating. “We did nice custom chairs at the head of the table and saved a little on the side chairs,” Engelberg says. “It’s all about balance, and a few really nice things in a space elevates the items around them.” RELATED: Amazon Has Uncanny Dupes of CB2’s Popular Dining Chair for Hundreds Less2Create a focal point.Victoria GloriaJeanne Barber of Camden Grace Interiors vividly remembers a tip from her mother, who was a floral designer for lavish Boston weddings: “She always said that rather than sprinkling a dusting of roses all around the seating area, it was better to concentrate them down the aisle leading up to the altar, where guests’ eyes focused. The same is true in a house — invest in the focal point and the rest will fade away. For example, the showstopper in this girl’s bedroom we designed was the arched window, so we concentrated resources there — with a blue accent ceiling, custom drapery and bench made loveseat. We used more affordable stock case goods elsewhere in the room, but these custom accents concentrated at the focal point make the entire room feel more expensive.” 3Highlight statement greenery.Lauren TaylorDon’t feel forced to break the bank to create a luxurious environment. Sometimes, all it takes is bringing the outdoors in, according to designer Linda Hayslett of LH.Designs. “Having things like a tree in a nice pot, real or faux, can elevate any space to another level because a tall plant can bring height and help with your line of sight and interest in a room.” RELATED: Tall Indoor Plants That Make a StatementAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below4Hang statement lighting.Grattan ImagingFrom modern floor lamps to striking chandeliers, you can’t go wrong with statement lighting in any room. “It can dramatically elevate the appearance of a home, making it look more expensive and sophisticated,” says Sarah Waldo of Washashore Home. “These fixtures act as focal points, drawing attention and adding a touch of luxury to any space. A well-chosen chandelier can serve as a dazzling centerpiece, while a stylish floor lamp can provide both functional illumination and a chic design element. By incorporating high-quality, eye-catching lighting, you not only enhance the overall ambiance but also create an impression of opulence and refinement.” Psst: Wayfair has some amazing options under $250!RELATED: Table Lamps to Make Your Space Shine5Showcase meaningful art.Photo: Kirsten Francis, Styling: Katja GreeffExpress your style with art that’s been collected over time. It pays to think outside the box too! “A well-curated art collection is a great way to make a home feel more luxe,” says Molly Torres Portnof of DATE Interiors. “The most important thing to consider is meaning: a page from a book, a framed piece of jewelry and a commissioned watercolor from a sought-after artist are all of equal value as long as they’re well-loved and have significant meaning. The biggest trick I’ve learned is that properly framing your art automatically elevates it, no matter what you’re actually framing.”6Lean into rich textures. William WaldronDesigner Lorna Gross has one rule: “Rich textures are just that — rich! They add so much depth and character to a space. Don’t be afraid to layer them atop each other for added excitement. A leather sofa against a red brick wall alongside a lacquered wood coffee table — each element adds dimension but still stands apart on its own.”Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7Incorporate custom window treatments. izusek//Getty ImagesWhether your space is big or small, there’s no denying the impact of custom window treatments for a sense of elegance — and privacy. A living room design is a good place to start. “Spend on these. End of story,” says Tara Felice Engelberg of Tara Felice Interiors. “Custom window treatments are pricey, but worth every penny. They need to be high and wide — high above the window trim to give the room an expansive feel, and wide enough to give the window more prominence. The pleating and draping of the fabric add instant elegance. The fabric itself doesn’t have to be over-the-top expensive. A moderate-priced linen will add texture and luxury to a room.” 8Play with pattern and texture. Carmel BrantleyOne tried-and-true interior design tip? Play with pattern and texture, says designer Nina Grauer of Dekay & Tate Interiors: “It’s the easiest way to make a room feel more interesting and elevated. Also, don’t be afraid to mix and match new with the vintage for some extra character and an overall luxe lived-in feeling.” 9Place an emphasis on scale.Raquel Langworthy PhotographyFurniture of the right scale is key in any interior. What’s the secret to choosing the perfect size? Here’s what Karen Wolf of K+Co. Living suggests: “Furniture scale maintains balance and harmony within a space, ensuring that each piece complements the room’s proportions rather than overwhelming or underwhelming it. Choosing furniture that is too large can make a room feel cramped, while undersized pieces may create an awkward, disconnected look. Thoughtful scaling allows for a cohesive flow, and makes a room feel well-appointed and also welcoming.”Advertisement – Continue Reading Below10Pick complementary hardware. Courtesy of Antonio Matrēs DesignSmall design details, like hardware, can enhance a room. Stick to complementary styles, though, says Antonio Matres of Antonio Matrēs Design. “Connecting hardware throughout your space is an easy yet elegant way to add a sense of cohesion and luxury. In this instance here, we leaned into the use of copper and rose gold tones, and wove them throughout the space in the lighting fixture, the bar stools, the dining chairs, and even in decor accents like the artwork. Weaving tonal elements throughout is interesting to the eye, but still retains consistency throughout.”11Hang elegant drapery.Paige Rumore PhotoAdd quiet elegance to any room by hanging draperies, says Connie Vernich of Vernich Interiors.”They soften curves and make a large space feel more intimate. We love a good drapery wall that not only adds privacy to your suite but becomes a major focal point that emphasizes your headboard,” says Vernich.Monique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand’s home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, “What’s in My Cart.”Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

The right bedding doesn’t just make your bedroom look amazing — it’s key to getting a great night’s sleep. Once you’ve got those quality sheets and super comfy pillows sorted, a cozy blanket is the final touch to pull everything together. But before you grab just any topper, it’s good to know that the terms “comforter” and “duvet” are actually different bedding items, even though people often use the terms interchangeably. A duvet is made up of two pieces, while a comforter is just one. Plus, they differ in thickness, design and how they function.Here, we break down the differences between a duvet and a comforter and provide a list of factors to consider when choosing between the two, including your budget, style and sleeping habits.What is a duvet?A duvet consists of two pieces: a duvet insert and a duvet cover. A duvet insert is a quilted blanket filled with down, feathers or synthetic fibers. The outer shell is usually white or cream, as it’s meant to be placed inside a decorative duvet cover. A duvet cover, which is basically a giant pillowcase for your duvet insert, keeps it protected and clean. Most duvet covers have handy loops or tabs on the inside corners and sides to keep the insert in place. Button closures, zippers or fabric ties along the bottom make sure everything stays secure. Duvet covers come in a ton of fabrics and styles, so you can easily switch them out with the seasons or whenever you’re feeling like it’s time for a bedroom makeover. Our top duvet insert picksBest OverallBuffy Cloud ComforterNow 20% OffBest ValueStyleWell All Season Down ComforterNow 50% OffBest for CouplesBirch Living Natural Down Duvet InsertRelated StoryWhat is a comforter?A comforter is like a duvet insert, but with one big difference — it’s ready to use as is, no cover needed. A good comforter has a durable, decorative outer fabric and comes in all kinds of patterns and colors. You can find them in various levels of thickness and fluffiness, depending on your personal preference. Plus, comforters are often larger than duvets, designed to drape over the sides of your bed.Our top comforter picksBest ValueLinenspa All-Season Down Alternative ComforterNow 15% OffBest OversizedPeachSkinSheets Oversized Comforter SetBest CoolingRest Evercool Cooling ComforterCredit: Rest EvercoolRelated StoryShould you choose a duvet or a comforter?When choosing between a comforter and a duvet, it’s essential to think about your laundry routine and sleeping habits to find the best fit for your bed. From comfort to cleaning, here are the key factors to keep in mind as you shop: ✔️ StyleYour decision might ultimately come down to what you think looks best. Duvets usually appear thicker and fluffier, perfect if you love a cozy, plush look. Plus, you can easily swap out the duvet cover whenever you want a change. Comforters, on the other hand, are often larger than duvets and drape over the sides of the bed, giving a more finished look. Some comforters also feature intricate details like beading or embroidery. Since they’re not as thick, you might want to layer a comforter with throw blankets or quilts for added warmth.✔️ ComfortDuvets are typically thick and puffy, while comforters are usually a bit thinner. When choosing between the two, consider your body temperature and sleeping habits.✔️ CleaningIf you use a top sheet, duvets and comforters only need washing every two to three months, at most, since they won’t come into direct contact with your body. But if you skip the top sheet, a duvet cover is the better choice since you can easily wash it more often. On laundry day, just put the duvet cover in the wash and reattach it to the insert after — no need to wrestle with a bulky comforter in your machine or take it to the dry cleaner. One of the disadvantages is that it will take a few extra minutes to put the duvet cover back on, but it saves you from washing the duvet insert more than necessary. ✔️ PriceThe cost of a comforter or duvet set can vary widely, but duvets are usually more expensive. When buying a duvet, you’ll typically need to purchase the insert and cover separately. The upside is that the insert — the pricier part — should last for years, and you can easily update your look by swapping out the cover whenever you want a fresh aesthetic.✔️ SizeDuvet inserts tend to be thicker and fluffier than comforters. However, comforters are designed to hang over the sides of the bed and also tend to be larger than a standard duvet, making them a great option if you sleep with a partner. Related StoriesAlyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries. More