Aurelia Butler

1RedLilas Gh//Getty ImagesRed is associated with fire, one of the five feng shui elements. It represents passion, fame and reputation, according to Susan Chan of Feng Shui Creative. When it comes to decorating your space, red can bring a sense of energy and life to any home. However, be weary of overdoing it: “Too much red can feel overwhelming rather than energizing. I recommend not using this color in areas where you want to relax, but more in areas where you need energizing such as an office or professional showroom,” says Chan.RELATED: Why the “Unexpected Red” Theory Is Going Viral2Yellow Vanit Janthra//Getty ImagesYellow represents Earth, which is believed to bring stability in feng shui. If you’re hoping to infuse your space with a sense of comfort and warmth, try adding yellow furniture, statement pieces or even an accent wall. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below3Greenalvarez//Getty ImagesGreen corresponds to feng shui’s wood element, and the color stands for growth and abundance. Based on the energy for 2025, the Year of the Snake, Reiko Gomez of Reiko Home suggests adding greenery to the Southeast area of your home to enhance relationships and romance.RELATED: 30 Best Green Kitchen Cabinets4WhiteKanok Sulaiman//Getty Images”All white everything represents the element of metal and can sometimes feel cold, empty or stark instead of fresh and bright,” says Chan. If you want to use white in your space, Chan suggests considering the natural light you get in the room: “If it’s north-facing and cooler, opt for warmer whites. If you get a warm, south-facing light, opt for a cooler, bluer white paint color to balance out the room.”Advertisement – Continue Reading Below5BlackLiliia Lytvyn//Getty ImagesIn feng shui, black corresponds to water, which signifies knowledge, wisdom and abundance. However, be careful not to overdo it. “Excess black might make a space feel heavy instead of grounding. Darker colors are what is considered ‘Yin’ energy — good for sleeping and relaxing, so reserve them for the bedroom,” says Chan.RELATED: 27 Black Bedrooms That Are Dramatic Perfection6Brownimaginima//Getty ImagesLike yellow, brown also symbolizes Earth, the element that brings comfort to a space. Incorporate this cozy neutral into your home for an added sense of stability. Just be sure to balance it out with the other feng shui elements and colors.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7PurpleCamilo Morales//Getty Images8Pinkonurdongel//Getty ImagesBring self-love and sensitivity into your space with this blend of red and white. “Pink represents fire and metal. It’s a color we like to associate with love and relationship,” says Gordon. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below9OrangeBulgac//Getty ImagesThe color orange combines the passion and power of fire (or red) with the stability and comfort of Earth (or yellow). This makes it a dynamic choice for any room. Try adding a statement chair or piece of artwork with a splash of orange to create a bright, energetic space that still feels welcoming.10TurquoiseKlaus Vedfelt//Getty ImagesAccording to Chan, turquoise is “a blend of wood and water elements, ideal for creativity and fresh ideas.” Add this blue-green blend to an office space for some work life inspiration.RELATED: 12 Office Layout Ideas for Good Feng ShuiAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below11MagentaNaphat_Jorjee//Getty ImagesAlthough it doesn’t directly correspond to any of the five elements, magenta is a vital color in feng shui, according to Claudat. “Technically, it’s not a color — meaning it doesn’t have its own wavelength. It’s a color we perceive in our mind, mixing it ourselves when red and blue wavelengths are seen together,” says Claudat. “Over the last 20 years, I’ve come to use it anywhere I want to make a space more compelling and magical.”12PeachGladiathor//Getty ImagesPeach, like pink, is traditionally used to attract romance, according to Chan. Add peach to your space for a warm, inviting environment that emphasizes femininity and softness. Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowWhat are the five elements in feng shui and their corresponding colors?Water: Blue, blackWood: GreenFire: Red, orangeEarth: Brown, yellowMetal: White, silverAre there colors you should avoid in feng shui?Since everyone has their own preferences and feng shui is all about creating harmony with one’s surroundings, there are no “bad” colors. However, experts suggest mixing the elements appropriately. “Each color represents an element and you want to make sure you strike the right balance for you,” says Chan.Laura 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. Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

A Note From Our Cleaning ExpertWhen it comes to keeping your house clean all year, you may be thinking, “Where do I even begin?” I’m here to say: we’ve got you! To help you get started, we’ve assembled the very speediest tips and top tested product picks from our Cleaning Lab pros to tackle those pesky problem spots. But we didn’t stop there. The Good Housekeeping Institute pros in our Kitchen Appliances, Home Improvement, Textiles and Sustainability Labs share valuable tips and advice from their unique perspectives and experience too. Whether you’re tackling chores indoors, outdoors or simply looking for ways to green up your cleaning routine, you’ll find solutions here. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get cleaning! Kitchen Know-HowKeeping this busy space spotless shouldn’t be a full-time job. With a few mindful moves, you’ll be cooking! Go at the grease. Make it a habit to wipe down your cooktop after every use, even if you don’t see splatters. Otherwise, invisible droplets of grease will get based or burned on when you simmer or sauté and become harder to remove. Manage fridge mishaps. Tackle dried and frozen-on spills in the refrigerator or freezer quickly and easily with a well-wrung-out hot, wet cloth. Place on the hardened blog and wait a few minutes, then pry up or wipe away the softened mess.Beware of migrating germs.To avoid cross-contamination, use separate towels for dying hands and dishes, separate cutting boards for preparing meat and veggies, and separate cloths for wiping counters and drying dishes. Wash or replace them often.Kitchen Must-Do’sGlove Up
I always wear rubber gloves when hand-washing my dishes. They make it easy to grab dirty cookware, plates and utensils and keep my hands dry and protected. Plus, it means I can skip washing my hands when I’m done.Use a Sponge Cloth
I’ve switched from paper towels to Swedish dishcloths. I keep a couple handy for cleaning surfaces like my stovetop and my fridge. They’re absorbent and durable. Dirty ones go into the dishwasher or washing machine and then are ready to reuse.Grab a Mini Vac
A little rechargeable vacuum is my way to quickly clean crumbs from counters, drawers and pantry shelves. It does a faster and more efficient job than a brush and dustpan and can be tucked into a cabinet for storage. “Clean as you go” is essentially the golden rule in the kitchen. It might seem like a lot of work at first, especially if you’re not used to it, but you’ll be thankful later.– Nicole Papantoniou, Director, Kitchen Appliances LabTop Kitchen ToolsFave Grease CutterKrud Kutter Original Concentrated Cleaner/DegreaserHandy Hand VacKitchenAid Go Cordless Kitchen VacuumNow 20% OffStainless Steel SaviorWeiman Microfiber Cloth for Stainless SteelNow 44% OffDishwasher DescalerAffresh Dishwasher CleanerNow 17% Off Simple Bathroom StrategiesTurn your bath into the spa retreat of your dreams.Give glass a treatment. Apply a water-repellent coating, like EnduroShield [link] or Rain-X [link] to glass shower doors and surrounds. Doing so helps water bead and run off so cleaning is easy and spots are less likely to form. Buff chrome and mirrors. Hang a mini microfiber cloth inside a vanity cabinet door to promptly dry water droplets on sinks and splatters on mirrors so these surfaces will stay shiny and spot-free. Encourage family members to use it too. Deal with dust. Dust and hair are easier to gather when dry. Before wet-cleaning bathroom surfaces, use your vacuum’s crevice tool to nab debris lurking in corners, behind the door, on and around the toilet and wherever else it collects.To help prevent mold from taking over my shower curtain liner, I wash it regularly (having a machine-washable style is a game changer!), and I dry it with a towel after each shower.– Emma Seymour, Associate Director, Textiles LabTop Bathroom ToolsPerfect Power ScrubberHOTO Electric Spin ScrubberNow 20% OffSuper SqueegeeCasabella Clip On SqueegeeBest Scented WipesClorox Scentiva Bleach-Free Cleaning WipesNow 56% OffVersatile SprayMr. Clean Clean Freak All Purpose Cleaner Spray, GrapefruitNow 71% Off Outdoor Insights Hosting a party outside? Make sure your entertaining space will be clean and guest-ready. Cover all bases. Stash cushions and pillows in a shed or a deck box when not in use to keep them clean, dry and mold-free. In the off-season, use covers on the grill, furniture and outdoor pizza oven to keep them cleaner until spring.Do doormats.Place dirt-grabbing doormats outside all entrances to your home to trap grit that could ultimately damage floors and carpets. Shake mats or sweep or hose them off regularly to keep them at their cleanest. Spruce up siding. To erase patches of green algae (not mold) that can mar the look of vinyl siding, mix 1/3 cup of chlorine bleach into 1 gallon of water and apply with a brush or sponge, let sit 6 minutes and then scrub if needed. Rinse well.Beautify Your BackyardWash Your Windows
One or two exterior cleanings a year will keep dirt, salt and other corrosive elements from taking a toll on windows and frames. (To make cleaning easier and minimize streaks, avoid doing this job in direct sunlight.)Invest In a Power Washer
A valuable tool for outdoor cleaning, a power washer blasts grime from decks, patio furniture, fences and more. Always proceed carefully, and check the owner’s manual for how to use it safely on on your surfaces.Consider Composting

Add refuse from a spring yard cleanup to a compost bin (or use it to start one). Spent foliage, clippings and last year’s mulch are nutrient-rich mix-ins for garden beds and the lawn.I love pressure washers, but you need to respect how much power they can generate. Always start with a wide spray setting, moving to a narrower nozzle as needed. Stay away from the red zero-degree nozzle, since it can damage surfaces and cause injuries.– Dan DiClerico, Director, Home Improvement LabTop Outdoor ToolsGreat Grate DegreaserRock Doctor Master Grill Grate CleanerNow 12% OffMighty WasherSun Joe Electric Pressure Power WasherNow 25% OffPower PadMagic Eraser Ultra Thick Multi-Purpose CleanerNow 88% OffScrubbing FoamCarbona ProCare Outdoor Furniture Cleaner Sustainable Solutions Making even small changes with the environment in mind can have a big impact. Choose reusables.For many cleaning tasks, reusable tools like microfiber mob pads, dusters and cloths are preferable to disposables when it comes to helping the environment. After washing, let microfiber air-dry (it’ll be quick!) rather than tossing it into the dryer — you’ll save energy!Be patient with eco-conscious products.Plant-based cleaners are effective alternatives to traditional ones, but they may take longer to get the job done. They dissolve grime and kill germs gradually, so follow the label: For the best results, let them work for the required time before wiping.Pick smart packaging.Innovative product containers are everywhere. Recyclable boxes are kicking plastic bottles and tubs to the curb, and concentrated refills eliminate the need to buy new bottles when sprays run out. Look for ways to reduce your cleaning-packaging footprint.Cleaning is an easy category to switch to more sustainable products. Start by looking for those with EPA Safer Choice certified ingredients and minimal packaging.– Sabina Wizemann, Director, Beauty and Environment LabTop Eco ToolsDo-it-all DusterOXO Good Grips Microfiber Extendable DusterConscious CleanerMethod All-Purpose Cleaner Concentrate Starter KitHardworking ClothsMaker’s Clean Kitchen Cleaning Kit Neatest Laundry SheetsEarth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets MORE FROM OUR EXPERTSCarolyn Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care and Cleaning Lab. Using deep analytical testing and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she produces cleaning and home care advice for GH, has authored numerous books and bookazines for the brand and partners with the American Cleaning Institute to co-produce the Discover Cleaning Summits. She holds a bachelor’s degree in family and consumer sciences from Queens College, City University of New York. More

1Wire Baskets”One of my absolute favorites is the gold baskets — so chic! Not only do they provide great storage, they add a touch of decor to any space. I use these wire baskets in my kitchen, securing them to the wall with clear Command hooks to store my dish towels.”— Jakia Muhammad, founder of SoleOrganizer2Plastic Storage Trays”These clear plastic organizers are amazing for storing small items, like cosmetics and hair accessories. They have a similar look and feel to higher-end acrylic organizers.” — Joy Hudgins of Joyfully TreasuredAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below3Over-the-Door Shoe Organizers”Over-the-door organizers are perfect for more than just shoes. I use them for storing backpacks, hats, scarves, ironing boards, cleaning supplies — basically anything that needs vertical storage.” — Chas Greener of Chas’ Crazy Creations4Glass Storage Jars”These glass storage jars are such an exceptional value, and virtually indistinguishable from higher-priced options. I fill them with dry essentials, like pasta and oats, to streamline my pantry.”— Joy HudginsAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below5Stackable Bins”These space-saving interlocking, stackable bins are handy for maximizing vertical space in cabinets, pantries and closets. They’re ideal for pantry organization — just add a label, and you’ve got quick access to snacks and dry goods. Stacking bins also work well under sinks for separating toiletries, cleaning supplies or extra household products.” — Stephanie Bailey, founder of Prudent Penny Pincher 6Small Organizers”Tiny organizers and magnetic containers are great for office supplies, spices or craft materials without the premium price tag.” — Chas GreenerAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below7Over-the-Door Hooks”The over-the-door hook is another budget-friendly gem. While the materials may differ from more expensive versions, the functionality is exactly the same. These hooks are perfect for hanging towels, cleaning supplies or even accessories without having to drill into the wall.”— Jakia Muhammad8Drawer Organizers”I love the inexpensive drawer organizers. These tools tend to cost more elsewhere, and while higher-end brands are nice to buy, I find these work just as well, and at a fraction of the price. Use them to organize all those small kitchen tools and gadgets that clutter up drawers when loose, like pizza cutters, can openers, peelers, corkscrews, measuring cups, meat thermometers and more.” — Maeve Richmond, founder of Maeve’s Method Advertisement – Continue Reading Below9Plastic Woven Baskets”I always go for Y-weave baskets — a simple, stylish way to organize accessories in the closet. They work great for scarves, belts and even folded workout gear.” — Melanie Summers of I Speak Organized10Fridge Storage Bins”I make a beeline for the storage bins, boxes and containers section. My favorite are the Essential Plastic Fridge Storage Bins — these are invaluable in our fridge. They help organize drinks, fresh herbs and spices, cheese and smaller vegetables.” — Maeve RichmondAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below11Stackable Drawers”These stackable drawers are a game-changer for under-the-sink storage. I use them to keep toiletries, first aid supplies and backstock bathroom essentials, like medicine and dental care.”— Melanie Summers12Shelf Risers”This simple tool creates extra storage space out of nowhere — perfect for cabinets. I use a shelf riser in my own kitchen, and it not only organizes my dishes but also makes them easier to reach.” — Stephanie BaileyAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below13Vacuum Storage Bags”These are a must-have for seasonal storage, travel and organizing linens or clothing. They allow you to fit more into a bin or suitcase by reducing bulk.” — Chas Greener14File Folders With Snap Closure”I consistently buy plastic snap folders at Dollar Tree. They’ve been a game-changer for me. I use them to store puzzle pieces, schoolwork or other important papers. They’re versatile and practical.” — Jakia MuhammadAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below15Adhesive Hooks”Use adhesive hooks to add storage to the back of cabinet doors, hang keys, store kitchen tools or even create a customized storage system on a blank wall.” — Chas GreenerAlyssa 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

Ants might be small, but they can cause a huge problem if they manage to invade your home. While ants are generally not considered dangerous, some may carry bacteria, making them an unwelcome guest in any house. If you’re wondering how to get rid of ants quickly, there are plenty of things you can do as a homeowner using materials you probably already have. We spoke to Steve Zaccone, owner and operator of Insetti Pest Services, for expert-approved ways to get rid of and prevent these pesky creatures from sneaking into your home. How to Identify AntsUnderstanding what type of ants you have in your home could tell you more about why they’re invading it in the first place and consequently, how to repel them. According to Zaccone, there are many different ant species that could make their way into your home, and you might need a magnifier in order to identify them. Here are a few of the most common types: Sugar ants: These tiny brown or black creatures are attracted to sugary substances as their name suggests. If you find ants in the kitchen or pantry where sweets have been left out in the open, you might be dealing with sugar ants. Note: The term “sugar ant” doesn’t refer to one specific species, but rather all sweet-seeking ants.Citronella ants: Citronella ants can often be identified by the odor they release when crushed. Hint: It’s in the name. “They’re light yellow to reddish brown and their presence can mean moisture issues. They’re usually found around the exterior foundation of homes,” says Zaccone. Pavement ants: Pavement ants are dark brown or black creatures that make their nests under pavement and enter through cracks in the home. Carpenter ants: “Carpenter ants are common too and can also mean that there’s a leak present somewhere causing moisture,” says Zaccone. Although these ants chew wood, they don’t actually eat it. Instead, they hollow it out so they can live in it. Related StoryHow to Get Rid of Ants If you already have an ant problem, the issue is unlikely to resolve on its own. However, there are a few ways you can get rid of these critters. Consider these effective solutions: Tooga//Getty Images1. Seal cracks around entryways. Ants can make their way into your home through the tiniest of cracks. That’s why it’s so important to properly inspect all entryways around your home, especially when you’ve noticed ants inside.”You can reduce ant activity by checking for holes and gaps around the house. Inspect around windows and doors,” says Zaccone. “You can use silicone or caulk. You can put door sweeps on the bottom of exterior doors.”2. Invest in bait traps. Instead of going straight for pesticides, invest in ant bait. While pesticides often leave unwanted residue around the house, ant bait stays contained in the trap. When worker ants discover the bait, they bring it back to their colony to share it, making it more likely to wipe out the whole colony. Terro Indoor Liquid Ant KillerRaid Max Double Control Ant BaitsNow 93% OffCombat Indoor and Outdoor Ant Killing GelNow 20% OffRelated Story3. Keep the house clean.This one is especially important if you’re dealing with sugar ants in particular. Make sure to keep all food in airtight containers and wipe down counters and floors as much as possible. 4. DIY your own ant repellent.There are a couple of homemade recipes you can try involving dish soap, essential oils and white vinegar. Here are the ratios:Dish soap: Fill a spray bottle with 10% dish soap and 90% water. Spray it directly on the ants and wipe them away. Essential oils: Add 10 drops of peppermint, thyme or citrus to a cup of water. Mix and fill a spray bottle. Spray any surfaces that ants seem to be attracted to. White vinegar: Add equal parts water and white vinegar to a spray bottle. Similar to essential oils, white vinegar acts as a repellent. Spray on any surfaces you’ve spotted ants. Just be sure to avoid using this spray on natural stone. 5. Hire a professional. If you’ve tried everything without much success, it’s time to seek out professional assistance. “As a professional, we use a gel bait in key areas where activity is present. We also apply an exterior treatment of the foundation with a pesticide. With the use of gel bait inside and an exterior treatment along the foundation, this usually eliminates the ants,” says Zaccone. How to Prevent Ants Once the ants are all gone, take these preventative measures to ensure they don’t make their way into your home again. PATSTOCK//Getty ImagesCut off all food sources: If ants can’t find food, they’ll be less likely to invade your home. Eliminating all food sources means cleaning up any spills, putting all food away after meals and keeping everything in airtight containers. Landscape your home: Lining your home with rocks or pebbles could help deter ants that don’t want to cross those barriers. Wipe off all surfaces: This includes crumbs, sticky floors and countertop spills. Make it a habit to wipe off all surfaces before bed.Related StoriesLaura 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

Martha Stewart’s newest book, Martha Stewart’s Gardening Handbook: The Essential Guide to Designing, Planting, and Growing, is her first in-depth gardening guide in over 30 years. From planning to design, the manual is filled with helpful information like how to choose the healthiest plants for your specific climate. Plus, the book includes gorgeous images, many of which are from Martha’s own gardens. Below is an excerpt from the book, out now.Introduction Gardening is an ever-evolving relationship, making it both immediately gratifying and a source of long-term awe and enjoyment.Martha Stewart’s Gardening Handbook: The Essential Guide to Designing, Planting, and GrowingNow 30% OffThose bulbs you planted in the brisk days of fall emerge once the ground thaws in spring and continue to do so year after year. A thicket of scrawny saplings grows into sturdy trees, casting shade, sporting blossoms, or yielding fruit (or all of the above). Nursery-bought perennials and shrubs settle in, take root, and become big and bountiful. Tiny seeds sprout, send up shoots, and provide delicious sustenance or showy flower heads. It all unfolds gradually, and there’s great pleasure in checking on each plant’s progress. Or as celebrated British horticulturist and garden designer Gertrude Jekyll sums it up: “A garden is a grand teacher. It teaches patience and careful watchfulness; it teaches industry and thrift; above all it teaches entire trust.” Growing Native PlantsNative plants are the heart of a healthy ecosystem, removing carbon from the air, providing shelter and food for wildlife, and promoting biodiversity.”Native plants support more species and larger numbers of bees than non-native plants.”A plant that is native to an area grows there naturally, without any cultivation. It is also cold-hardy for the area, though that same plant is not necessarily cold-hardy in other areas within the same zone or region where it is not native. Picture the vastly different natural landscapes in Utah and Kentucky (both in zones 5–7) or Montana and Maine (zones 2–5)—or even a rural, inland county versus coastal towns in South Carolina (zones 8–9). Numerous studies have shown that native plants support more species and larger numbers of bees than non-native plants, too. When growing native plants and supporting pollinators, look past hardiness zones to your particular “ecoregion,” according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Specifically, you can learn about “keystone” plants—the top native plants used by pollinating butterfly and bee species, without which the ecosystem and wildlife would suffer.North America has been divided into 15 broad “level I” ecological regions with 50 level II and 182 level III ecological areas. The ecoregion maps can be hard to decipher—instead, focus on keystone plants for each level I ecoregion on the National Wildlife Federation’s Native Plant Finder, which also lets you search by zip code.The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation is another excellent resource, with convenient downloadable one-page plant lists, or you can search by zip code via the National Audubon Society. You can also consult your local nursery, botanical garden, or cooperative extension to learn about native plants that will thrive in your area.Native PlantsHere is just a sampling of some native plants that thrive in Pennsylvania. Consult your local nursery to learn what will flourish in your garden.Harvest1. Rattlesnake master (Eryngium yuccifolium)2. Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa)3. ‘Little Henry’ sweet coneflower (Rudbeckia subtomentosa ‘Little Henry’)4. Butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa)5. Hubricht’s bluestar (Amsonia hubrictii)6. Tennessee purple coneflower (Echinacea tennesseensis)7. ‘Autumn Bride’ coral bells (Heuchera villosa ‘Autumn Bride’)8. Muhly grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris)9. Aster Spp.10. White snakeroot (Ageratina altissima)11. Blue wood aster (Aster cordifolius syn. symphyotrichum cordifolium)12. ‘Proud Berry’ coralberry (Symphoricarpos orbiculatus ‘Proud Berry’)13. Joe-pye weed (Eupatorium dubium)Read More News on Martha StewartJamie (she/her) is the news and SEO editor at Good Housekeeping. She oversees GH’s digital news strategy, assigning and editing celebrity and entertainment news content. Before joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she was the digital editor at Woman’s Day. She has over 7 years of professional experience writing and editing lifestyle content for the Rachael Ray Show, The Knot, Martha Stewart Weddings, Insider, Elite Daily and more. She holds a BFA in Writing, Literature and Publishing from Emerson College and lives in Brooklyn with her cats Lumos, Linus and Milo. More

If you’re at all interested in home design, you’re probably familiar with one of the more recent popular styles: modern farmhouse. Think rustic wood beams, sleek white kitchens and sliding barn doors. While homeowners have been embracing this style for years now, there’s a new trend that’s taking over home design — and consequently, the real estate market. According to Zillow’s latest research, organic modernism is the new modern farmhouse, and buyers are becoming more willing to pay for homes with nature-inspired design choices that align with the style. In fact, homes with these features sell for as much as 3.7% more than expected (that’s an extra $12,500 on the typical U.S. home).So what exactly is organic modernism? Here, we break down the trend along with its most sought-after features. What is organic modernism?Vasyl Cheipesh//Getty ImagesAccording to Zillow’s Home Trends Expert Amanda Pendleton, organic modernism has been on the rise since the early days of the pandemic.”Organic modernism feels like an evolution of the modern farmhouse look. It’s a design style that blends modern minimalism with natural elements and materials — think lots of wood, natural stone, patinated metals and texture. It’s become so popular lately because it offers a balance of comfort and style, and it feels attainable yet luxurious,” says Pendleton.Plus, the trend is rooted in sustainable design, which is becoming increasingly important to younger homebuyers who want to feel connected to the nature. Organic modernism gives them “refuge from a chaotic world,” according to Pendleton. What features are homebuyers looking for?Organic modernism is all about raw yet refined features, connecting homeowners to nature both inside and outside their homes. According to Zillow, there are a few key design elements related to this desire for serenity that can boost a home’s sale price.IndoorsSoapstone countertopsWhite oak floorsVenetian plaster wallsOutdoorsOutdoor showerOutdoor kitchenBluestone patio Wirestock//Getty ImagesFor example, soapstone is now more in demand than quartz as a countertop material, contributing to a sale premium of 3.5% versus 2.6% for quartz. And it doesn’t stop there — functional outdoor spaces are continuing to sell for more. Listings with mentions of outdoor showers, outdoor kitchens and bluestone patios can boost resale value by 2.2 – 2.8%.Is organic modernism here to stay?Trends come and go, yet the desire to stay connected to nature while at home has grown stronger and stronger among homeowners since the pandemic. Buyers want sustainable, natural materials incorporated into the spaces they spend the most time in. That desire has been present for years now — even if it’s just now reaching the mainstream — suggesting that this trend has some real staying power. “This style has saturated social feeds and media to the point where a typical home buyer now associates these features with an up-to-date home. As a result, they’re willing to compete for a home that has these trendy features and pay more than expected,” says Pendleton.More Interior Design TrendsLaura 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

Professional organizers are always discussing what to get rid of around the house, and paper clutter is usually at the top of the list. For parents with piles of cute drawings, paintings and crafting projects, it’s not so simple. Children’s art projects carry memories and showcase developmental milestones, which can create guilt when parents choose to throw them away.Since children’s artwork is sentimental and can be incredibly difficult to declutter, should you toss it? I asked three pro organizers, who also happen to be moms, and they all agreed: Most of your kids’ artwork should get thrown out. Why you should throw away your kids’ artwork?Paper clutter takes a toll on our mental well-being, impacting stress levels and productivity. “As both a professional organizer and a mom, I’ve seen how excess paper creates this constant visual noise that disrupts our functionality, focus and even our family harmony,” says Laura Kinsella, founder of Urban OrgaNYze. “When papers are scattered everywhere, we waste time searching, feel guilty about the mess and lose those truly special items in the shuffle.” Kinsella, who throws out 75% of her kids’ artwork, says it’s important to be selective. “The real value lies in the creative process: When kids make art, they reduce stress, build confidence and stimulate their minds. We don’t need to keep every piece to preserve those benefits.” The pros stress the importance of quality over quantity. “It can be more impactful to save and display a few prized masterpieces than to keep boxes of artwork stashed in a closet,” says Lisa Zaslow, founder of Gotham Organizers. “But, no need to feel guilty if you don’t want to keep any of it.”Jamie Grill//Getty ImagesWhat to do with your kids’ artwork:For the small percentage of art you keep, don’t toss it in a drawer and forget about it. The pros suggest digitizing or displaying your kids’ artwork, so you can eliminate paper clutter without throwing away cherished memories. Organize a photo album. Ask yourself: Is it important to keep the art in its original form or could you take a photo of it, instead? “Take a photo and make a digital or printed album of items that are too big or that don’t make sense to store,” says Zaslow.Hang refillable frames.Modern frames with a front opening design allow you to easily swap in artwork. Some options hold up to 50 papers at once, so you can continue to stack artwork as your little one creates. Upload photos of art to a digital frame.Before you toss a masterpiece, take a photo and upload it to a digital photo frame, like the Aura frame, so you can keep admiring it. Use a service that digitizes artwork. There are various brands that specialize in turning kids’ artwork into something special — think coffee table books, collages, gift wrap or T-shirts.”Artkive — popular for its framed mosaics — “is fantastic if you want a done-for-you service,” says Kinsella. Fill a box with artwork, send it in and they’ll professionally photograph everything. Turn drawings into wall art. Sites like Shutterfly and Artifact Uprising allow you to transform photos into personalized art — whether it’s a framed print, photo display box or canvas print.ARTKIVE Framed MosaicsScribble Kids’ Art Wrapping PaperFront Opening Kids’ Frames Now 17% OffTips for decluttering kids’ artwork:To alleviate guilt and decision fatigue, pro organizers suggest creating realistic systems for organizing your kids’ artwork. Sort through artwork daily. “I recycle anything that is schoolwork-related such as worksheets or spelling tests,” says Lightfoot. Dedicate a storage bin to each child’s art, and keep only what can fit inside. “Twice a year — mid-school year and end — I review everything we’ve collected,” says Kinsella. Get rid of anything that doesn’t feel meaningful. “I always remind myself: Nothing is precious if everything is saved.” At the end of the school year, file pieces into portfolio boxes. Anything that isn’t thrown away or put on display can be neatly organized and labeled for long-term storage. “These boxes create a natural physical limit for what we keep, which helps prevent overwhelm,” says Kinsella.Share the love. Gift creative pieces to grandparents and other family members. Reassess over time. “What feels precious now might feel less so in a few years, and that’s okay,” says Kinsella. “Your system can evolve as your needs change — especially as the volume of artwork ebbs and flows.”More Advice From Pro OrganizersAlyssa 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

Gone are the days of all-white kitchens, muted bedrooms and other minimalist spaces. In 2025, homeowners are expressing themselves through their interior design style, leaning into personality-fueled trends like dopamine decor and wallpapered ceilings. Unsurprisingly, people are looking to the past — think retro design features like decorative molding and antique mirrors — to inspire their current home design. Specifically, interior designers are noticing a revival from one decade in particular: the 1980s. “The 1980s were a vibrant and lavish decade when interior design embraced bold, eclectic styles, mixing luxury with playful, futuristic elements. Neon colors, as well as pastels, were popular, thanks to shows like Miami Vice,” says Liz Williams of Liz Williams Interiors. While certain 1980s trends are making a comeback today, they’re resurfacing with a modern twist. We spoke to three interior designers about the ’80s design elements they’re seeing in 2025 and how homeowners are incorporating them into their spaces today.Cozy MaximalismEmily J FollowillThe term ‘maximalism’ might bring to mind wild patterns and clashing colors — but that doesn’t truly capture the essence of the style. While maximalism often involves bold design choices, the style can be cozy too. In the 1980s, pops of color throughout the home were commonplace, but these spaces still felt comfortable.”One of my favorite aspects of 1980s home design is the cozy, lived-in feel of the spaces,” says Meghan Jay of Meghan Jay Design. “I love that the cozy, maximalist aesthetic is back where there’s a balance between comfort and style, and spaces feel lived-in and character-ful — while also feeling modern!”Wooden AccentsMatching wooden chairs and tables are part of the 1980s signature style. While you might not see those sets often these days, wooden accents are making a comeback in other forms. “Wood hardware is trending, whether it is integrated into cabinets or designed to stand out,” says Jessica Flake of Copper Sky Design + Remodel. Think wooden knobs on cabinets, stained bookcases and vintage wooden picture frames. Regardless of how it’s incorporated, wood adds character to any space, and homeowners are rediscovering that in new ways. Colored TilesMARC MAULDINDesign by Copper Sky Design + Remodel. Photo by: Marc MauldinHomeowners are continuing to move away from neutral color palettes, welcoming vibrant furniture, daring patterns and unique wall design and flooring into their spaces. Designers are noticing that their clients are especially becoming more adventurous when it comes to their walls, opting for bright colors and new textures around the house. “Colored tile specifically has seen a big revival,” says Flake.Oversized FurnitureChunky furniture is a defining characteristic of 1980s interior design. While it might not sound appealing to have extra-large furniture all over the house today, there’s been a reinvention of this furniture style that designers are loving. “The 1980s were known for their big, bulky furniture, such as oversized sofas and armchairs with thick cushions and large frames. While oversized sofas are still popular, they now have cleaner lines. The focus is on comfort without the oppressive bulk, so you’ll find lower-profile sofas, with a narrow track arm, covered in visually lighter upholstery fabrics,” says Jay. Curved DetailingAnastasia AlkemaContrary to the more modern emphasis on simple, clean lines in home design, the 1980s style was all about curved furniture and detailing around the house. Not only can curved lines be more visually interesting, they can also add character and charm to a home like this fluted marble surface does. “Some trends making a comeback today include curved, fluted and reeded detailing,” says Flake. “We see it in materials such as wood, marble, tile and even glass — applied to cabinets, furniture and walls.” Bold Wallpaper LooksIt’s no surprise that wallpaper is making a major comeback in 2025. While homeowners are taking a step back from the patterns seen in the 1980s, they’re experimenting with all kinds of different colors and designs.”In the 1980s, floral wallpaper was everywhere, and the patterns often featured rich, jewel tones that overwhelmed a space. We’re now seeing wallpaper being used in more creative ways, not just the traditional four walls. My clients are always open to wallpapering a ceiling, or adding a touch of wallpaper in the backs of bookcases,” says Jay.Neon and PastelsRobert Peterson / Rustic White Interiors If bright colors are your thing, you’re in luck. Neon hues and pastel color schemes are working their way back into interior design. “The use of bold color from the 1980s is making a strong comeback, offering a refreshing contrast to the dominance of neutral tones like gray,” says Williams. “Small doses of vibrant colors, such as neon accents or jewel tones, are being used in modern interiors to add energy and personality, often through accent walls, colorful furniture and textiles.”Related StoriesLaura 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