Aurelia Butler

While I dread the idea of decluttering, once I start, I tend to enjoy it. I love the satisfaction of filling up bags upon bags to donate, reclaiming the precious closet space I must use strategically in order to get by in my small apartment. Still, finding the time — and the motivation — to begin the decluttering process can be challenging, at least for me. Dedicating hours at a time just doesn’t work for my schedule. I prefer to work in bursts, but even then, I sometimes get distracted and move onto the next thing on my to-do list. When I first learned about the 10-10 decluttering method, it seemed like an innovative approach to organization, giving people a way to hold themselves accountable while still offering the much-needed flexibility most need to get the job done. I decided to give the method a try and declutter my bathroom, closet and kitchen cabinets. What is the 10-10 decluttering method?The 10-10 decluttering method is pretty simple — choose an area, set a timer for 10 minutes and get rid of 10 items in that space. “If you notice other items you don’t need, remove them as well, but make sure to stick to the 10-minute timeframe,” says professional organizer Tonia Tomlin of Sorted Out.My 10-10 decluttering experienceI decided to try the 10-10 decluttering method in three separate areas, spending 30 minutes in total over the course of a couple days. ClosetI have been meaning to tackle organizing my closet from top to bottom. With clothes that no longer fit properly and worn-out shoes taking up valuable space, I knew this area was a priority. I set my timer and go to work sorting through everything. I have to say: Surprisingly, I actually loved the thrill of being timed. It added a level of excitement to the process that I don’t typically experience while decluttering. It also made me realize how much I can really accomplish in only 10 minutes. I was able to sort through all my sweaters, pants and shoes before the timer ran out, rounding up well over 10 items. Bathroom Although I organize the storage under my bathroom sink pretty often, it always seems to get out of control with new items. Once the 10 minutes were up, I found myself with a solid stash of expired or close-to-empty skincare products and toiletries to throw away, plus a few unused beauty products to give friends and family.Related StoryKitchenSomehow, I always have more cups than I remember buying — and more canned goods and snacks. Since my kitchen is pretty small to begin with, I gave myself the whole space to work with. One thing I noticed in the 10 minutes of decluttering was the number of canned goods and sauces in my cabinet. Instead of buying those goods every time I go grocery shopping, I plan to be more mindful and only purchase what I need. This way, I’ll save space in my kitchen cabinets and won’t have to worry about getting rid of expired goods. I also compiled a few mugs I haven’t used in a while to donate or repurpose around the house, and I was even able to reorganize my cabinets before the time was up. Laura MillarRelated Story The bottom line Before starting the challenge, I was nervous I wasn’t going to be able to get up to 10 items in 10 minutes in each space, but by the end, I was surprised by how much I had actually decluttered in just 30 minutes. The 10-10 decluttering strategy is helpful for anyone needing a bit of extra motivation and flexibility to get organized. Typically, I’d dedicate a full day to go through all areas of my apartment — and I always dreaded it. Now, I don’t think I’ll ever use that approach again. Whether or not I continue to time myself moving forward, this strategy made me realize I only need a few minutes to make major decluttering progress, and I consider that a win. Declutter With UsLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates.  More

Hummingbirds are a fan favorite among birdwatchers, and for good reason — they’re playful, energetic and tiny (which makes them even cuter). While plenty of gardeners actually tailor their flower choices to attract hummingbirds, it’s helpful to know when exactly these vibrant creatures will make their way towards your geographic area so you can catch a glimpse. Typically, hummingbirds spend the winter in Central America or Mexico before migrating north to the United States. Using sighting reports from their viewers throughout the migration season, Hummingbird Central has created an interactive map that details their current location.Hummingbird CentralHummingbird Central’s interactive map as of April 17, 2025.Check in daily to keep track of hummingbirds in your region, and once they’re nearby, try a few easy hacks to attract them, whether it’s incorporating a bird bath or hanging a sugar-water feeder in the yard. If you’re a birdwatching expert, the site even tracks sightings of different species of hummingbirds so you know exactly which type to look out for. From ruby-throated to black-chinned hummingbirds, the map has a colored icon for each type. Just use the key to identify which birds are in your area. When you finally spot a hummingbird, you can submit your sighting to Hummingbird Central, contributing to the accuracy of the map. At the end of the 2024 migration season, the site released a video detailing the migration journey for the year. Although it’s based on last year’s sightings, the animation provides a helpful visualization of where hummingbirds might be in future weeks or months in the 2025 season so you know when to expect these spring visitors.Prepare for SpringLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates.  More

Muddy soccer uniforms, food-stained tablecloths, your favorite white tee that’s turned an unfortunate shade of gray over time — sometimes a regular wash just doesn’t cut it. But there’s an often-overlooked setting on many of the best washing machines that could be the ticket to cleaner clothes with less time and effort on your part: the presoak cycle. What is the presoak cycle?The presoak cycle is exactly what it sounds like: a special setting that soaks your laundry in water before the main wash begins. You’ll want to use this when dealing with tough stains and heavily soiled items like sports’ uniforms covered in grass or mud, tablecloths and napkins with dried-on food stains, grayed-out whites or dingy towels.While the specifics of each machine may be a little bit different, the presoak cycle is, essentially, a soak cycle with some agitation to help loosen dirt and grime. Typically, you also add detergent or a special presoak solution to the mix, which helps break down more stubborn stains as the dirty items tumble and soak in the sudsy water.pkazmercyk//Getty ImagesDepending on your washer, the presoak cycle typically lasts between 15 and 30 minutes, though some models may offer longer presoak options. Once the presoak cycle is complete, the machine usually drains the dirty water, sometimes spins briefly and then moves right into the regular wash cycle, so you don’t have to lift a finger between cycles. Do all washing machines have a presoak cycle?Many newer washing machines are equipped with a presoak or soak setting, though the name and exact function can vary. Some machines even allow for more customization, letting you choose how long you want to soak your laundry; others are more fixed.If you’re not sure whether your machine has this feature, check the user manual or look through the cycle options on the appliance’s control panel. Look for names on your machine like soak, presoak, prewash, stain treat, deep clean and power soak. The user manual can also guide you through specifics like where to put pre-soak product and how much to use.No matter what it’s called and how exactly it works, the presoak cycle is a low-lifts extra step that can make a big difference in how clean your clothes look when you pull them out of the machine. More From Our Cleaning LabBrigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more. More

Decluttering can feel overwhelming and intimidating, but following a system that works can make the process manageable. As someone who lives in a one-bedroom apartment, I am constantly re-evaluating my space to avoid clutter. On any given day, I might be taking stock of my food storage containers, book collection or beauty products to make sure they’re not getting out of control. I’ve put many decluttering methods to the test over the years, too. So when I heard about the four-box decluttering method from a pro organizer, I just had to try it. Related StoryWhat is the four-box decluttering method?The four-box decluttering method is a simple approach that involves labeling four boxes and making quick decisions about the fate of your belongings. Each item should be evaluated individually and placed into one of these four boxes:”Keep” Box: Hold onto items that are functional, frequently used or hold deep sentimental value.”Trash” Box: Compile items that are broken beyond repair or have no value to other people, such as expired items, outdated technology and old paperwork.”Donate” Box: Some items — think books, mugs or clothing — that you don’t need or rarely use might be valuable to someone else. Items that are in good condition, or have never been used, can be donated to a local thrift shop or charity.”Storage” Box: Whether you’re not ready to get rid of it or the item’s in the wrong place (for example, a kitchen tool on your desk), this box consists of items that need to be re-homed. It could be a simple relocation, or it could mean putting seasonal or infrequently used items into storage.Alyssa GautieriI didn’t have cardboard boxes at home that were similar in size, so I used a few wicker bins. I used a cardboard box for donations, so I could easily pack it up for transport.How to follow the four-box decluttering method:It’s a practical technique to put into practice, especially if you live in a small apartment. “The beauty of the four-box method is that it provides structure and quick decision-making, which can reduce emotional overwhelm,” says Chas Greener, organization expert and creator of Chas’ Crazy Creations. “By limiting options, it helps people move through spaces efficiently without getting stuck in perfectionism or sentimentality.”✔️ Start with one space. Choose one drawer, shelf or section of a room. I went with my bedroom dresser first, then moved onto under my bed. “Small wins build momentum and make the process feel less overwhelming,” says Greener.✔️ Set a timer. I was able to accomplish a lot — decluttering the top of my credenza dresser and its two cabinets — in a short amount of time. “Giving yourself 15 to 30 minutes keeps you focused and prevents burnout,” Greener says.✔️ Be honest with yourself. If you haven’t used or loved an item in the past year, it may be time to donate or toss it.✔️ Label the boxes clearly. I used a mix of cardboard and reusable baskets, so I labeled them with sticky notes. The labels kept falling off, so I’d recommend investing in basket labels or writing in permanent marker directly onto cardboard.✔️ Don’t leave the filled boxes laying around. Once you’ve placed everything into boxes, the work isn’t done. Make sure to take the donate and trash boxes out of the house — don’t let them linger. Storage Bins, Set of 4Labels for Storage BinsMy thoughts on the method:Overall, the four-box decluttering method made the process of decluttering my bedroom simple and stress-free. The process is easy to implement, helped me stay on track and make quick decisions about my belongings. I was able to declutter my bedroom dresser within 15 minutes, and found a lot more items to toss or donate than expected. I had products I rarely use, but didn’t want to get rid of — like brand new candles and an essential oil diffuser — taking up valuable surface space. I even had a bin full of random paperwork and random items I’d never given a permanent home. Following a method like this almost turns decluttering into a game or challenge — can I fill each basket? I found the process to feel more engaging when I had a clear goal and labeled bins in front of me. There’s no room for “maybes,” because every item has to fit into one of the four categories.The most challenging part was finding four boxes of equal size. Do most people have a slew of cardboard boxes lying around? I definitely didn’t. If this process is something you want to follow over and over again, you can clear out and then reuse the boxes — but where are they stored in the interim? I think foldable bins might be the most practical solution, so you can fold and tuck them away in between declutter sessions. More Ways to Declutter Your Home 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

Once upon a time, skirted furniture was relegated to a design detail you might see in your grandma’s house. (You know, right next to the vintage floral sofa wrapped in plastic.) Though upholstered pieces were a symbol of wealth back in the Middle Ages—well-to-do dwellers could collect textiles from their adventures, which was a lot easy to transport than hefty wooden furniture—it has since run the risk of appearing old-school and outdated. Well…until now, that is. Lately, we’ve been seeing skirted furniture everywhere: A fringed trim along the base of a bed frame, slipcovered sofas that masquerade wooden legs, and some people have even been concealing the contents of their open storage with a fabric curtain. Skirted touches are one of the latest design trends, and for Cate Gutter, this comeback taps into our desire for “softness and longing.” Design: Mary Patton; Photo: Molly Culver”There’s something romantic and rooted about a good tailored or ruffled skirt,” the North Carolina-based designer explains. “It feels familiar and fresh at the same time.” Meanwhile, other designers say the rise of skirted furniture is a great way to add depth to an interior—not to mention it brings some visual intrigue to a room that has too many exposed legs. “It’s an easy, low-commitment way to add a little personality,” adds Mary Patton, who runs her eponymous design firm in Houston. “Whether it’s a punch of color, a fun pattern or just a clever way to conceal storage and outdated plumbing.” Unlike the frilly furniture you might spot in your grandmother’s living room, today’s pieces feel more refined, less ruffled. For Atlanta designer Liz Williams, the key to keeping skirted furniture current lies in what she calls dressmaker details. “Tailored skirts with crisp pleats feel fresh,” she says. “Any details like contrast piping can really elevate the look.” Design: CWG Design; Photo: Baxter MillerGutter agrees and notes certain materials will make skirted furniture feel fresher. “Crisp linens, stripes or even solid velvets with clean pleats or box-style skirts,” she shares. “Those details make all the difference.” While you’re at it, you’ll also want to make sure your skirted finish is hemmed to graze the floor. “Not too short, not pooling on the floor,” Gutter adds. “It should feel intentional and tailored.” But don’t write off this trend as a frilly, fleeting fad: Designers insist that, with the right know-how, skirted furniture can hold up nicely. For starters, look for pieces that will blend seamlessly with your space. Ultra-upholstered decor might fit nicely in traditional or eclectic homes, but Williams says they can work in more modern rooms, too. “It’s all about balance,” she says. “Pairing skirts with clean-lined, leggy pieces prevents things from feeling too heavy.”Design: Barrett Oswald; Photo: Tim LenzRooms with too much drapey furniture will read outdated, so you’ll always want to add a few skirt-less pieces to your setup. In fact, Williams says you can strike a healthy mix by adding a skirt to some unexpected items. “Don’t overlook skirted tables,” she shares. “They present a great opportunity to showcase fabric and texture. They can be both practical, with hidden storage underneath, and pretty.” Another thing to switch up: Patterns. Skirted furniture sets of yesteryear were matchy-matchy, but a healthy mix of solids, stripes or florals can give a room a collected edge.Once your strike that balance between upholstered and leggy pieces, offset your skirted furniture with modern touches. While Gutter says modern lighting or bold artwork are fair play, New York designer Barrett Oswald recommends offsetting frilly finds with some texture. “Accents like a sleek leather piece or a wooden element adds both purpose and contrast, creating a harmonious and thoughtfully curated look,” she says. Skirted, stylish and rife with staying power? Consider us sold.Related StoriesKelsey Mulvey is a freelance lifestyle journalist, who covers shopping and deals for Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, and ELLE Decor, among others. Her hobbies include themed spinning classes, Netflix, and nachos. More

Sustainable gardening isn’t just a gardening trend — it’s a full-blown movement rooted in concerns about climate change, personal health and economic uncertainty. Whether you’re motivated by a desire to reduce your carbon footprint, save money on groceries or support pollinators in your backyard, there’s never been a better time to dig into sustainable gardening. This cultural shift reflects a desire for greater control over personal health and environmental impact. There’s a growing public awareness of how traditional gardening practices may not be the best practice. “More people are recognizing the direct link between unsustainable gardening practices and habitat loss, as well as the impact on their own health,” says Mary Phillips, head of native plant habitat strategy and certifications at the National Wildlife Federation. Climate change and food security worries have only accelerated the push toward more thoughtful gardening. What is sustainable gardening?Sustainable gardening takes an eco-friendly approach to minimize environmental impact. The motive is protect and enhance self-sustaining ecosystems that require minimal resources. Sustainable gardening can take many forms — shaped by your climate, space and goals — but several core practices tend to stand out:1. Water conservationReducing water waste is a top priority. Gardeners are increasingly relying on drip irrigation systems for efficient watering and rainwater harvesting to make use of natural rainfall. They’re also growing drought-tolerant native plants that thrive with less water. 2. Building healthy soilA thriving garden starts with the soil. Sustainable gardeners focus on composting to recycle nutrients back into the ground. They use organic fertilizers for chemical-free nourishment, plus low-till or no-dig methods to protect soil structure and microbial life. 3. Supporting pollinatorsJanJBrand//Getty ImagesCreating pollinator-friendly spaces — even on balconies or in small containers — is more common than ever. “People realize that companion pollinator plants can help a food garden be more abundant,” says Phillips. Gardeners plant native flowers that attract bees, butterflies and hummingbirds, and install habitat features like bee hotels and shallow water dishes. 4. Natural pest managementInstead of relying on synthetic sprays, many gardeners practice companion planting to deter pests naturally and introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings.5. Creative upcyclingEco-conscious gardening doesn’t have to be expensive. Many gardeners repurpose containers for planters and build raised garden beds from salvaged materials. How to start a sustainable garden:Starting a more eco-friendly garden doesn’t require a full overhaul. You don’t even need a large yard. “We are fielding more questions about how to support pollinators and gardens for wildlife in limited spaces, such as balconies, rooftops and small yards,” says Phillips. Here are a few simple tips from Phillips to get started:✔️ Ditch the chemicals. Avoid synthetic pesticides and fertilizers to protect soil, water and biodiversity.✔️ Shrink your lawn. Turfgrass offers little benefit to wildlife and demands lots of water and upkeep. Replace sections with native groundcovers or pollinator plants.✔️ Plant native. Native plants require less maintenance and provide vital food and shelter for local wildlife. Use the Native Plant Finder and enter your zip code to get started.✔️ Don’t forget about container gardening. Every square foot counts. “Even a few thoughtfully planted containers can provide vital food sources and habitats for beneficial insects, birds and other small wildlife,” says Phillips. kupicoo//Getty ImagesWhy is sustainable gardening becoming more popular?When we’re feeling stressed, many of us turn to nature — and we’re not alone in that instinct. Throughout history, people have sought comfort and healing in the natural world. The most recent surge in gardening happened during the pandemic, and for good reason: Gardening has the power to boost both our health and overall well-being. With food prices on the rise, more people are growing their own herbs, vegetables and fruits. But it’s not just about the grocery bill — it’s about empowerment. As food safety and health become top of mind, sustainable gardening offers a hands-on solution. It allows gardeners to avoid harmful chemicals, grow nutrient-rich food and cultivate biodiversity. Best of all, it’s a low-impact way to get a mental health boost by reconnecting people with nature. “In a time of stress and uncertainty, gardening provides a grounding experience and a sense of control,” Phillips notes. The bonus? Homegrown produce is fresh, affordable and better for the planet.Expert Gardening AdviceDebbie Wolfe is a writer, photographer, and author. She has contributed hundreds of home and garden articles and DIY tutorials to leading media outlets and retailers. Debbie covers all home and gardening topics and has published hundreds of DIY tutorials with step-by-step photography for leading home and garden media outlets. More

Perfectly neat rows and meticulously trimmed hedges — that’s what most people picture when they think of a formal garden. This image is so deeply ingrained that when we start gardening at home, we often default to a similar version of this tidy structure. But, chaos gardening — a low-maintenance approach — continues to gain traction on TikTok. Gardening influencers are fully embracing the surprises in their gardens, affectionately calling them “chaos.” With over 8,000 TikTok videos and counting, the gardening trend is still going strong this spring.What is chaos gardening?Chaos gardening embraces a more natural, less controlled approach. The easy-care gardening method often involves sprinkling a variety of seeds around the garden without organization or perfectly spaced rows. Gardeners blend flowers, herbs and vegetables and allow them to grow where they may. “It takes very little effort to maintain a chaos garden throughout the growing season — and that’s the beauty of it,” says Linda Vater, an Oklahoma-based garden designer. Plants find their own space with minimal intervention, often resulting in a lush and delightfully low-maintenance garden. While the term may sound modern, the concept has roots in centuries-old practices. Before the rise of formal gardens with their symmetrical beds and clipped hedges, many traditional gardens — especially cottage and wildflower gardens — thrived in a more organic, free-flowing style. These early gardens celebrated abundance, diversity and spontaneity, starkly contrasting the tidy, curated look popularized in later European landscapes. Related StoryWhy’s it trending?This phenomenon isn’t new to home gardeners — or to nature itself. After all, self-sowing is how many plants naturally spread and thrive. What gardener hasn’t stumbled upon a surprise squash vine curling along the edge of a compost pile or a volunteer zinnia blooming where no one remembers planting it? With chaos gardening, the difference lies in its intentionality. Its recent resurgence can be credited, in part, to social media platforms like TikTok, where garden influencers have brought the care-free gardening approach into the spotlight. What began as a quirky term to describe unexpected gardens has grown into a celebrated style.How to create a chaos garden: ✔️ Pick the perfect spot. Choose a sunny or partly sunny area with decent drainage. Your chaos garden doesn’t need a perfectly manicured location — just a space where plants can thrive with minimal interference.✔️ Loosen up the soil. While chaos gardening thrives on spontaneity, a little initial prep helps. Loosen the soil with a rake or hoe to help seeds settle in. You don’t need to go overboard — just clear away heavy weeds or debris and rough up the top few inches.✔️ Select your plants wisely. Choose plants that suit your region and growing conditions. Focus on a mix of hardy, pollinator-friendly plants, with about 75% native varieties and 25% non-natives for a healthy, balanced garden. But remember, native doesn’t always mean better. It’s a common misconception that all native plants are inherently beneficial. In reality, some natives can grow aggressively and outcompete other species, disrupting the very ecosystems they’re meant to support.Instead of focusing solely on what’s native, entomologist and native plant advocate Doug Tallamy encourages gardeners to consider whether plants contribute to the ecosystem, rather than simply labeling them as native or non-native. That means selecting species that offer food, habitat or support for pollinators, birds and other wildlife. A well-rounded chaos garden is one that nurtures biodiversity.✔️ Scatter seeds. Mix your seeds in a bucket and scatter them freely across your prepared soil. Lightly rake them in or water gently to help them settle.✔️ Add a little structure with shrubs. Chaos doesn’t mean completely unplanned. “Rather than fussing over high-maintenance plants, a chaos garden should be a tribute to easy elegance,” says Vater. She recommends anchoring your garden with low-maintenance shrubs with evergreen color and unique foliage without demanding frequent pruning or watering.✔️ Follow your instincts. Don’t feel boxed in by strict design rules. “At the garden center, simply allow your eye to guide you to the plants that pull at your heartstrings,” Vater says. “Chaos gardening is the perfect excuse to try something new and totally unexpected for your landscape.”Darrell Gulin//Getty ImagesWhat’s the advantage of chaos gardening?Chaos gardening can be surprisingly good for the environment. Mixing various plants and letting them grow freely supports pollinators, birds and beneficial insects, creating a mini-ecosystem right in your backyard. This diverse planting style often reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides, making it a greener way to grow. It’s also low-maintenance and stress-free, perfect for gardeners who’d rather enjoy nature than fight it.What are the challenges with chaos gardening?✖️ Managing overgrowth can be time-consuming. One of the biggest challenges is managing overgrowth and keeping weeds in check. With so many plants growing closely together, it’s easy for aggressive self-seeders — or even weeds — to take over and crowd out the more delicate contributors.✖️ There’s no predicting exactly how your garden will look. An overgrown garden may be perceived negatively by others, especially in neighborhoods or communities with strict landscaping guidelines. To keep things looking intentional rather than unruly, consider adding visual anchors like stepping stones, a birdbath or a border of low-maintenance shrubs. These elements create structure and show that your garden, while wild in spirit, is still being thoughtfully maintained.✖️ You may need to do some gentle intervention. “When it comes to beginning your chaos garden, you can keep your initial planning and strategizing to a minimum,” says Vater. “However, as the growing season presses on, a little artful guidance on your part can go a long way.” You might notice certain plants struggling while others flourish. Maybe they’re shaded out, or facing stiff competition from a neighboring plant. In those cases, a relocation or light thinning can give those under-performers a better chance to thrive. Related StoriesDebbie Wolfe is a writer, photographer, and author. She has contributed hundreds of home and garden articles and DIY tutorials to leading media outlets and retailers. Debbie covers all home and gardening topics and has published hundreds of DIY tutorials with step-by-step photography for leading home and garden media outlets. More

Designed to maximize space and create separation between rooms when necessary, pocket doors were a hallmark of Victorian homes in the 19th century. Imagine the ability to open the pocket doors between a dining room and parlor to entertain guests with ease in both areas. And whenever the mood strikes, you could also enjoy an intimate meal in the dining room behind closed doors.Rather than swinging into a room like traditional doors, pocket doors practically disappear into the wall. And now, according to interior designers, homeowners are appreciating their appeal once again, possibly because of the rise of the “closed concept” trend. So we’re making it official: Pocket doors are making a comeback.Design Pros Weigh In”Designers love pocket doors for their clean look and the way they save space — especially in tight areas like bathrooms, closets and pantries. They give you flexibility without sacrificing style. It’s a smart, stylish solution that works beautifully in both modern and traditional homes.” — Tracy Morris of Tracy Morris Design”Pocket doors don’t block any pathways when they’re open, making them a handy solution for tight spaces. But there’s a certain air of drama when you reveal what’s been hidden away. So not only do they save space, but they’re an opportunity to make a statement.” — Michelle Cheney of Rebel BuildersDesign by Rebel Builder; Photography by Lara Kimmerer”When every inch matters, we turn to pocket doors — an elegant solution that lets your space breathe while offering the option to tuck things away with ease. Whether it’s an office, pantry or laundry room, pocket doors offer a seamless flow that doesn’t sacrifice privacy. A quiet nod to thoughtful design — where form meets function, and simplicity feels luxurious.” — Lindsey Colhoun of Lindsey Colhoun Design “They’re a smart, space-saving solution that can also be a beautiful design detail, especially when integrated seamlessly into the surrounding cabinetry or trim.” — Michael Winn of WINN Design + Build”As we see clients beginning to move away from open floor plans, both in the interior design space and luxury home staging, introducing pocket doors is a seamless way of adding privacy without the visual weight of traditional hinges.” — Rae McCalmont of PBF Homes”The main reason to install a pocket door is to free up space in a room, such as a water closet or mudroom or any smaller area where a swinging door would impede on the function of the space. Also, if the door is open most of the time, such as in a walk-in closet or library, consider a pocket door so that the door is invisible when not in use.” — Sean Mullin of Anthony Wilder Design/BuildGTM Architects; Photography by Kip DawkinsAdditional Benefits of Pocket Doors Reduce noise. Let’s face it: While open-concept layouts feel spacious and are great for entertaining, they can get noisy. That’s why pocket doors work especially well for these setups. “With open-concept living, there is still the need to contain noise and activities so we often will create large openings with pocket doors that are perfect to slide closed for the occasional phone call or raucous kids parties,” says Stefan Hurray of BarnesVanze Architects. Versatility. Luke Olson of GTM Architects has settled on the trendy door style for a variety of projects, whether it’s used to make the most of space or create a sense of privacy in rooms like libraries and studies “that otherwise would be open and visible when not in use.” They are also ideal to “partition off designated pet areas, to provide privacy to ancillary spaces when entertaining, as a more contemporary option for a door, and more.” Improved hardware. Pocket doors aren’t falling off the tracks these days. Their hardware has come a long way, according to Mark Kaufman of GTM Architects, who has noticed significant improvements over the past five years. “Today’s pocket door systems offer a level of performance and sophistication that simply wasn’t available a decade ago,” Kaufman says. “Features such as soft open-and-close mechanisms, synchronized hardware for double doors and flush-closing designs that sit flush with adjacent walls when closed have elevated the pocket door from a once-looked down upon element to a desirable architectural feature.”GTM Architects; Photography by Eric Angelus”We’re now seeing hardware that not only meets modern expectations for quality and durability, but also enhances the overall design opportunities of a space,” says Mark Kaufman of GTM Architects.Solution for quirky spaces. Nicole “Coco” J Colin of Coco Design & Build Co., which is based in Evanston, Illinois, says pocket doors aren’t just about aesthetics. They’re a go-to tool for compact, awkward spaces that “require creative‬ problem-solving.” Colin adds: “Especially here in our community, where many homes are older and full of‬ charming, albeit quirky, details left over from decades of homeowner-led modifications, we often‬ encounter spaces that present design challenges. Overlapping door swings, tight hallways or‬ awkward traffic flows are common issues.‬”Primary suite upgrade. Chances are you might have spotted them in a New York City brownstone. “Pocket doors are having a real revival, especially in New York City brownstones where every inch counts,” says Kerry O’Duibhir of New Wave Design & Contracting. “They’re perfect for primary suite layouts, connecting the walk-in closet and primary bathroom without eating up floor space or disrupting the flow. Plus, they nod to the home’s original architecture while steel feeling fresh and intentional.”Visual appeal. “We recently installed two sets of French pocket doors with seeded glass in a new build and when closed off, the glass is gorgeous,” Mullin says. “Also, when the pocket door is inside another room, such as a water closet within a bathroom, consider a frosted or seeded glass door to allow some light to enter while also providing privacy. Also, there is a level of skill needed when installing pocket doors; we only use solid wood doors and not hollow core options. Other things to consider are the weight of the door, the type of latch, the hardware in general and how the door slides into the wall. Will pocket doors remain a go-to design solution?There’s no sign of this particular door style slowing down, as it offers benefits for all types of spaces, says Paulina Hospod of Aha Interiors. “Pocket doors have always been one of my favorite design tools. Whether it’s to divide a space or to save precious square footage, like in a compact powder room, they serve both form and function. Pocket doors aren’t just practical— they’re timeless, in demand and can make just as strong a design statement as any other architectural element.” Get More Design AdviceMonique 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