Aurelia Butler

Professional organizers — though they promise decluttering is a never-ending process — seem to have it all figured out. They’ve built a career on sharing helpful organizing advice and the best decluttering methods, but how do they live and function in their own homes?Out of curiosity, I asked six professional organizers what things they’d NEVER do in their homes. Whether it’s keeping items out of guilt or designating a junk drawer, pro organizers urge you to ditch these habits right away — don’t worry, these small changes are easy to implement. “Organizing is never about perfection,” says Rachel Rosenthal, organizing expert and owner of Rachel and Company. “It’s about making your home feel easier, lighter and more personal every day.” Related Story1. Follow organizing trendsWhether it’s a new organizing method or nifty gadget, not all organizing trends are worth trying. “Real organizing isn’t about trends — it’s about creating spaces that truly work for you,” says Rosenthal. “Gimmicky products often look cute for a minute but rarely hold up in real life. I’ve found that what lasts is always simple, intentional and tailored to you.” 2. Keep a junk drawerWe’ve all fallen victim to a junk drawer. It’s so easy to toss miscellaneous items into a crowded drawer without thought — but Cheryl Russo of Organizing by Cheryl never does it. You’re effectively decluttering surfaces, while creating clutter elsewhere. “I have had friends who actually open my kitchen drawers to see how organized I am in my own house,” Russo jokes. “Luckily for me, I’m organized everywhere! It’s like that saying: ‘How you do anything is how you do everything.'” 3. Save items for a special occasionWhen something is precious — think a family heirloom, expensive candle or fancy outfit, we have the tendency to tuck it away and save it for the “perfect” occasion. Reality is, that occasion may never come. “I don’t believe in saving things for ‘a special day’ or letting things go hidden or stored away to preserve it. If something brings me joy, I use it,” says Jennifer DuBois, founder of Home With Jen D. 4. Store too many kitchen gadgets or appliancesFrom an avocado slicer to speciality appliances like a holiday-themed waffle maker, pro organizers never hold onto kitchen items they rarely use. “I’m not into collecting every trendy gadget. Instead, I make sure my kitchen flows — things I use often are within reach, categories are grouped logically and I don’t let unused tools take up prime space,” says Weiss. Jena Ardell//Getty Images5. Tolerate cord clutterTangled chargers and visible TV cords are a major no-no for pro organizers. “Even the most organized space can feel chaotic when cords are visible and trailing across the floor,” says DuBois. “I use simple tools like cord wraps, clips and discreet extension cords to keep cables neat and hidden.”6. Buy storage bins before declutteringFor some, it may seem logical to buy storage bins and baskets with the intention of decluttering — but pro organizers warn against it. “I always sort and purge first,” says Nichole Gehman of Organize By Designe. “Buying cute bins before you know what you’re keeping is a trap and leads to more clutter. Know what you have, THEN problem-solve with product.” 7. Keep items out of guiltThere’s a lot of guilt associated with decluttering, especially if the items were a gift or you feel a sentimental attachment. Just because something holds meaning, doesn’t mean you have to keep it forever. “Whether it’s a gift I don’t love or something I spent money on but don’t use — if it’s not serving me today, I let it go,” says Sarit Weiss, founder of Neat & Orderly. “I’ve learned that holding onto things out of obligation just adds emotional clutter. I’d rather fill my home with items I actually enjoy and use.”© eleonora galli//Getty Images8. Organize by colorUnpopular opinion: Organizing pro Rachel Rosenthal NEVER arranges items — namely books — by color. “I love beauty in a space, but never at the expense of function,” she says. “If you can’t easily find what you need, the color-coding isn’t helping — it’s just visual noise.”9. Let papers pile up”One thing I never do in my home is let mail or paperwork pile up on counters or tables,” says professional organizer Melanie Summers of I Speak Organized. “I have a simple system for sorting and processing paper as soon as it comes in. I keep wall baskets by the entrance to our garage for papers that need to be filed (like bills or kid’s school stuff). Any junk gets immediately put into recycling and never makes its way into the house. We keep zipper pouches in the glovebox of the car for receipts and gift cards and those get sorted or used every month.” Expert 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

1Flexzilla Garden Hose Now 25% OffTested by our experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab, the Flexzilla Garden Hose proved kink resistant and easy to maneuver. And Amazon customers agree: “It’s the perfect combination of lightweight and heavy-duty — I was impressed with how easy it is to handle, yet it feels sturdy enough to last for years,” raves one reviewer. Browse GH Expert Picks: 7 Best Garden Hoses, Tested & Reviewed2Spruce Weed & Grass Killer The Spruce Weed & Grass Killer earned the GH Seal for its ability to effectively control weeds all while being easy to use. Plus, its ingredients meet the minimal-risk regulations set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Our experts even confirmed that the product is safe to use around bees. RELATED: GH Seal Spotlight: Spruce Weed & Grass KillerAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below3Stihl Garden Pruner Kit If you’re hoping to clean up the yard before gardening, this pruner kit will do the trick. “I really like the Stihl mini chainsaw. I use it all the time at home. It rips through branches up to a few inches thick. Best of all, it’s available with a pole pruner attachment that makes it easy to reach high-up branches,” says Dan DiClerico, the GH Institute’s Home Improvement and Outdoor Director.Browse GH Expert Picks: 5 Best Mini Chainsaws That Make Yard Work Easy, Tested by Experts4Cute Gardening ToteHutzler Mini Garden ColanderYou can never go wrong with a double-duty product, like this tote-style colander that has just enough space to gather — and wash — veggies from your garden. Amazon customers love the style, too. “It’s a nice size for carrying produce and the material is soft enough to not bruise tomatoes. The handle is comfortable, and it comes in several cute colors,” says one reviewer. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below5Fiskars Stand Up WeederDon’t bust your back while weeding. Use this tool instead to claw up dandelions, thistles and other invasive plants without bending over. Plus, you can even ditch harsh chemicals. 6Veggie MarkersNavaris Slate Plant Labels Label all your houseplants and garden veggies with these slate plant labels and a chalk marker. The best part? You can wipe away the name when the season is over and reuse them all next year. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7Best Overall KitUkoke Garden Tool SetSince there’s no better time to upgrade your toolkit, consider this stainless steel set that comes with everything you need to maintain your garden: a trowel, a weeder, a rake, a spade and a cultivator. There’s even a vibrant orange tote to keep everything in place. 8Plant AugerPower Planter Bulb & Bedding Plant AugerCredit: AmazonMost bulbs need to be planted anywhere from three to six inches deep, which is a task in itself. This drill, which works in various types of soil, digs deep holes without the extra elbow grease. “I just finished planting 90 daffodil bulbs in clay soil in about 90 minutes. But the real point isn’t the length of time it took, but the effort required. Short version: not much,” raves one reviewer. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below9Fiskars Herb SnipCredit: Amazon10VELCRO Brand Garden TiesMeet the best way to keep your plants — tomato vines, especially — secure and supported. After cutting these soft-sided ties to any desired length, they’ll manipulate your garden to grow just the way you want it too. “I cannot be without this in my garden. It is easy to use, stays exactly where you put it, never comes unstuck, and is a wide, protective way to tie up your plants,” says one customer. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below11For the Fashionable GardenerDIGZ Leather Palm Garden Gloves with Knit Wrist12Fiskars Cultivator Now 38% OffWhether you need to mix soil or remove weeds that are taking over your plant, this durable aluminum cultivator is sure to come in handy. It features an ergonomic handle to prevent wrist strain and there’s a hole at the end for easy hanging when it’s not in use. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below13Repotting Must-HaveBloomscape Hand TrowelFeaturing stainless steel and a comfortable wood handle, this hand trowel’s sizable deep dish and narrow tip make it brilliant for repotting plants or planting. 14Gardena Retractable Reel with HoseMake watering your lawn stress-free with this retractable hose that can easily be mounted to a wall. It can swivel 180 degrees to ensure that the hose remains tangle-free while watering your lawn or garden. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below15Perfect for Small SpacesPanacea A-Frame Plant SupportsIf you’re lacking garden space, think up, not out with this trellis, which climbs more than 4 feet tall. Ideal for cucumbers, squash, peas and flowering vines, this top pick can also be folded flat and stored when not in use. 16XLUX Soil Moisture MeterNothing is more frustrating than overwatering or underwatering plants, resulting in wilted or yellowing leaves. With this nifty meter, you can test the moisture of soil to determine the perfect time to water your plants. Just insert it into soil to find out the results. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below17RED Home Club Garden KneelerCredit: AmazonDon’t let another day of gardening go by without having this well-cushioned kneeling pad in your arsenal. Available in six colors and two sizes, this foam pad provides much-needed knee support and has a handle for easy carrying. Plus, customers love the durability: “Wind, rain, or shine-these pads stay put through all weather and maintain their use for several years,” writes one happy customer. 18Miracle-Gro Indoor Plant Food In addition to sticking with a consistent watering schedule and providing your plants with the right amount of light, they can also benefit from fertilizer. All you have to do is mix the fertilizer with water before watering your plants or add it directly to the soil. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below19Gorilla Carts Poly Garden Dump CartDon’t strain your back attempting to carry loads of mulch or plants around your garden. Complete with a steel frame, this sturdy cart is equipped to hold up to 600 pounds. 20GardenHOME Garden and Yard Leaf ScoopsNow 50% OffYou need to set the stage before planting flowers, vegetables and fruits. This pair of hand rakes are a game-changer for removing leaves — wet or otherwise — and placing mulch in your refreshed flower beds.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.”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

When it comes to antique shoppers, designer Autumn Pochiro says they fall into two camps. There are people who simply get a kick out of browsing antique stores without any pressure to discover a gem. Then there’s the serious, knowledgeable set who might be determined to find a specific piece and can easily spew details about an item’s value and history.Pochiro, who admits that she’s a novice, was reminded of this a few years ago when she attended an estate sale in Dublin, Ohio, hoping to find artwork. “It was all sold,” says the founder of Autumn Dawn Design, recalling the let-down. “They even had an original Andy Warhol!” But in the midst of that disappointment came a surprise that would immediately turn her experience around. “As I was walking through this beautiful house, I spotted these gorgeous brass bullet casings formed into vases,” Pochiro says, noting that they’re called trench art. Autumn PochiroDesigner Autumn Pochiro discovered trench art shell casings from World War I at an antique shop in Dublin, Ohio. Autumn PochiroThe bottom of the casings are marked with the date. Pochiro has been told they’re now worth about $1,700. While she was admiring them, an elderly man looked on beside her. “I was kind of guarding them,” she says with a chuckle. “Then he said he wasn’t going to take them from me, but he could tell by my expression that I didn’t know what I had found.”The man, who happened to be a lawyer, went on to explain that they’re trench art shell casings from World War I. “I wanted to be offended, but he was so cute, and it was the most interesting conversation,” she says. She paid $80 for the pair at the time, but soon after, she learned that they’re worth about $1,700. Today, the designer proudly displays them on her living room bookshelf. “They’re my favorite thing in my house right now,” Pochiro says. Get Antique Shopping TipsMonique 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

When it comes to finishes, brass has long reigned supreme. From kitchen cabinets outfitted with brass hardware to brass bathroom fixtures and lighting choices, it seems to be everywhere. While there’s no denying that the popular metal adds a dose of warmth and glam to a room, some interior designers say it’s time to give it a rest. That’s right: They believe brass finishes are out in 2025.Designers weigh in “Brass and gold finishes have added a lot of warmth and glamour to interiors over the years, but I do feel they have become a little overdone. For me, design should always feel personal and timeless, not just a reflection of what’s trending.” — Kelly Hoppen of Kelly Hoppen Interiors”There are a lot of brass and gold tones out there that continue to grow with suppliers and manufacturers of various products within the industry such as in lighting, plumbing and hardware. As these have tended to saturate the design market, we’ve definitely seen a surge towards alternative finishes. ” — Aleem Kassam of Kalu Interiors “The brass and gold trend has reached a saturation point in residential design. While these finishes were once the go-to for adding warmth and contrast to the cool gray and white minimalist interiors that dominated for years, they are no longer as popular.” — Mary Gordon of InSite Builders & Remodeling”Bright polished brass can make a kitchen or bathroom look dated compared to the modern clean styles and finishes like satin brass, matte black or brushed nickel.” — Shannon Kadwell of Anthony Wilder Design-BuildRelated StoryWhat’s replacing brass? Interior designer Tracy Morris of Tracy Morris Design confirms that brass isn’t going to disappear completely. There will just be less of the shiny finish. “Lately, I’ve been loving softer, more lived-in finishes like aged brass, antique pewter and even muted black metals,” Morris says. “These tones feel more refined and versatile, and they pair beautifully with a range of materials and styles. I’m also seeing a lot more mixed metals in one space, which adds depth and keeps things feeling fresh. It’s less about being trendy and more about creating a layered, timeless look.” Hoppen has also noticed that people seem to be drawn to “softer, more layered metallics like brushed nickel, antique bronze and even matte black, which bring a subtler, more individual feel to a space.” While Kassam has been sourcing dark bronze, black chrome and black steel for his clients, explaining that they’re “understated but rich in character.” And Gordon has found that people now favor choices that are more grounded and architectural: “Aged iron, soft black and oil-rubbed bronze are being chosen for their ability to add depth and contrast without overwhelming a room. These tones pair well with natural materials like wood and stone and help create a sense of balance.” tulcarion//Getty ImagesRather than brass, designers say finishes, including black, will continue to grow in popularity. Weathered hardware and lighting finishes, including pewter and antique nickel, are gaining in popularity as well, Gordons says. They can “subtly influence the tone of a room.” Rather than making such a bold statement with shiny brass, “fixtures in darker metals bring a quieter and more understated presence to a space.” Overall, conducting some research to pinpoint the right finish for a particular space can pay off, according to designer Julie Anne Burch. “It’s a wonderful creative opportunity. Every vendor offers a wide range of options, each varying in tone, sheen and color, giving designers the freedom to tailor a space with intention. Whether you choose a finish that blends seamlessly with its surroundings or one that stands out through contrast, it should always enhance the overall story of the room.” “There’s a clear emphasis on materials that feel more thoughtful and responsible, perhaps influenced by broader conversations around sustainability,” Gordon says. “The focus has turned from making a statement to creating substance, with texture and tone taking precedence over shine.” Get More Design Trend NewsMonique 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

Carpets are so back. That cozy wall-to-wall look is trending once again thanks to new technology from brands like Lifeproof and Lifeproof with Petproof Technology, which offers luxuriously soft weaves, superior stain and odor resistance, and a plethora of trending styles, exclusively at the Home Depot. So if you’re interested in incorporating this luxurious flooring into your home, read our handy guide below, and get ready to step into comfort.The Benefits of Wall-to-Wall CarpetingIn addition to that aforementioned cozy, inviting vibe, wall-to-wall is a popular choice for its insulating properties (great for drafty homes) and safety features (reducing the risk of slips and falls and providing a soft surface for little ones and seniors alike). “I also love the acoustic benefits,” Virginia-based interior designer Cathleen Gruver says. “It helps absorb sound, which can make a big difference in bedrooms or upstairs spaces.” On the design front, she adds, it can often provide a more finished, cohesive look to a home than rugs “that constantly need straightening.”The Home DepotWhat Rooms Are Best for Wall-to-Wall“Bedrooms are my top pick,” says Gruver. “There’s something comforting about stepping out of bed in the morning onto plush carpet.” She also recommends the carpeting for basements and media rooms — anywhere sound control or warmth matter. For her part, Bay Area design consultant Lily Li likes a soft flooring option on stairs and in kids’ rooms or play areas, like Lifeproof Hazelton II textured carpet. “It makes it much easier to sit on the floor and play with your toddler,” she says, adding that since “kids are going to crawl on everything, you should get a carpet with stain resistance.” Lifeproof with Petproof Technology’s Plush Dreams II fits that bill, too: It’s super-soft, yet made with durable fibers that offer superior stain and odor resistance. And it’s resistant to fading, so you don’t have to worry about that common dingy look carpets often get over time. As with all Lifeproof and Lifeproof with Petproof Technology products, there’s a solid warranty on pet and household stains. And when purchased with a Lifeproof carpet pad, you get a cozy enhancement that also gets you a lifetime warranty on wear. The Right Wall-to-Wall Option for YouWith so many elevated, modern options available in terms of pattern, texture, twist, loop and berber, finding a style to fit your aesthetic and budget isn’t hard nowadays. The trick is choosing the right application and understanding your lifestyle, says Gruver. If you have an active household with kids and pets, you want durability. “Look for high-density fibers and tightly twisted yarns — they resist crushing and matting,” Gruver says. “Pile height is also important — the length of the carpet fibers,” she continues. “A lower pile tends to be more durable and easier to clean, while a higher pile feels more plush and luxurious.” So generally speaking, a high pile is great for a bedroom, and a lower one is better for high-traffic zones like living rooms and hallways. If yours is a bustling household, you’ll also want an option that’s easy to maintain — without compromising on style. Lifeproof with Petproof Technology’s Beyond Cozy carpet checks all the boxes. The medium-pile fibers are silky-soft yet can handle stains, spills and even an impromptu wrestling match, and they come in a variety of beautifully vibrant colors. And as with all Lifeproof with Petproof Technology products, there’s a solid warranty in place, ensuring your floors will always look and feel good.The Home DepotxHow to Choose the Right StyleOnce you’ve found the right type of carpet for how your space will be used, you can select a style. For a family room, Gruver recommends a patterned option, like Lifeproof with Petproof Technology’s Crystal Cavern carpet, to hide footprints and vacuum marks. “Patterned carpets are a great way to add visual interest without being overwhelming,” she says. “Always consider color and fiber type, too — darker tones can feel cozy, while lighter tones can make a room feel more open.”Get 10% off the Lifeproof Carpet System from 6/19–7/6. More

I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve seen a piece of clothing or kitchen gadget I no longer use or need and think to myself, “I’ll get rid of it next time I declutter.”But then next time isn’t for a few weeks or even months, and whatever that item is just stays in its place, contributing to the clutter. That’s the problem with how so many people view decluttering, myself included. Rather than incorporating it into our everyday routines, we see it as a challenging task — one you have to dedicate at least a whole day to for it to be “worth it.” “Gradual decluttering” debunks that entire thought process, and professional organizers agree that it makes getting rid of clutter a whole lot easier. “This is a much less overwhelming experience because you aren’t overloaded with decision-making all at once,” says Emily Mass of Spaces by Emily. So how can you finally tackle your clutter on a day-by-day basis? I spoke to a few professional organizers to learn more about the process, their recommended steps and the benefits. Gradual Decluttering, Explained Gradual decluttering is just what it sounds like: making time every day to complete just a few small organizational tasks. Damian Lugowski//Getty Images”Gradual decluttering is all about tackling clutter a little bit at a time instead of trying to overhaul your entire space in one marathon session. It’s perfect for people who don’t have hours to spare — or who feel totally overwhelmed just thinking about it. When you break it down into small chunks, it feels way more doable, and you’re less likely to burn out or give up halfway through,” says Lindsay Melvin of Orchid Organizing. Ultimately, gradual decluttering is about changing your mindset and forming new habits. Decluttering doesn’t have to be an event. It can be something you do every day to the point where you don’t even really realize you’re doing it — as simple as getting in the habit of wiping down the table after dinner or washing the dishes when they pile up. How to Gradually Declutter While decluttering little by little without feeling overwhelmed sounds great in theory, you might not know how to get started. Professional organizers share their most helpful tips and tricks. Catherine McQueen//Getty ImagesSet an alarm: Five or 10 minutes is all you need to get started. “This is a great mid-day exercise when you need a break from work, or you can even make it part of your nighttime clean-up routine,” says Mass.Determine your clutter zones: Whether it’s the closet, garage or kids’ space, determine the zones of your home that accumulate the most clutter and place a basket in each room. Every time you walk in and see something you no longer need, throw it in there and take it out to donate once it’s full. Settle on a certain amount of items: “Commit to removing a certain number of items per day — even just one or two makes a big difference,” says Elsa Elbert of Composed Living. Having a goal, regardless of how small, will help you stay accountable. Fill up a donation bin: Whenever you notice an item that can be donated or thrown away, don’t wait to get rid of it. “Put items in a large bin — once it’s full, donate it,” says Amelia Meena of Appleshine. Start with non-sentimental items: “If you try to start the process by decluttering your favorite objects, you’ll be more likely to get discouraged right away,” says Elbert. Start with a t-shirt drawer or medicine cabinet instead to gain some momentum.Alexandr Kolesnikov//Getty ImagesThe Benefits Instead of letting everything accumulate to the point where you’re too anxious to even begin, take it day by day. Gradual decluttering will help you maintain a consistently organized home without all the stress that comes with organizational marathons. While a decluttered home is certainly one benefit, it’s not the most important one. By gradually decluttering every day, you’re more likely to make it a habit, which means you can eliminate those hour-long sessions for good. “When decluttering becomes a consistent, bite-sized part of your routine, it naturally builds awareness around what you bring into your home and how you manage your space. Over time, this gentle, ongoing process helps shift your mindset from reactive cleanup to intentional living, making tidiness feel more like second nature than a special project,” says Elbert. 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

1DIY a Plant ShelfA Beautiful MessTransform your window sill into a shelf for your favorite plants. They need the fresh sunlight, after all. Place a few right on the windowsill itself, or build a two-tier shelf to fit even more succulents. See more at A Beautiful Mess »2Cozy up a Window BenchBless’er HouseIf you’re lucky enough to have a cozy window seat in your home, you might as well dress it up with cushions, pillows and blankets. Whether you choose to lay down with a good book or simply daydream into the distance, window benches are the ultimate relaxation spot. See more at Bless’er House »Advertisement – Continue Reading Below3Show off Floral Arrangements@ahometomakeyousmileWith lighting like this, it’s almost impossible not to stare at these stunning floral arrangements. Embrace your love for all-things-floral and place your vases right on the window sill so you can enjoy looking at them from the comfort of your own couch. See more @ahometomakeyousmile »4Go VintageBrepurposedAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below5Add a Few Picture FramesLiudmila Chernetska//Getty ImagesDepending on the size of your window sill, you might be able to fit a few of your best family photos. Frame your favorite memories with loved ones and put them on display all year round.6Utilize the Extra Storage SpaceFor The HomeBlogger Christine Higgs of For the Home places her jar of kitchen utensils right on the window sill for easy access while cooking. If you have a window right above the stove, consider using it to store spices or other kitchen gadgets to free up some space elsewhere. See more at For the Home »Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7Display a Cutting BoardThe DIY PlaybookSure, cutting boards are a useful kitchen tool. But some are even pretty enough to put on display full time. This blogger uses one of her small cutting boards for a plant and candle she lights every night after dinner.See more at The DIY Playbook »8Ditch the Nightstand Анатолий Тушенцов//Getty ImagesIf you have a window right next to your bed, you might be able to ditch your night stand for good. Keep your lamp right on the window sill. Not only is it convenient, it’s also stylish.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below9Add Holiday DecorFor The HomeWhen the holiday season comes around, use your windowsill to create the ultimate winter wonderland. Christine Higgs of For the Home incorporates bottle brush trees in her bedroom for a touch of holiday charm. See more at For the Home »10Add a Pop of ColorStyle by Emily HendersonWhat’s better than the fresh smell of coffee paired with some morning sunlight? Paint your window sill for an unexpected pop of color and top it off with some greenery for the coffee station of your dreams. See more at Style by Emily Henderson » Advertisement – Continue Reading Below11Turn It Into a Reading NookDomestically Blissful12Plant a Herb GardenThe DIY PlaybookAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below13Take Advantage of ShelvingStyle by Emily Henderson14Stack Some BooksEkaterina Morozova//Getty ImagesDon’t have room for a full bookshelf? Stack a few of your favorites on the window sill. It doesn’t count as clutter if it looks good, right?Advertisement – Continue Reading Below15Extend the LedgeStyle by Emily HendersonDIY your own headboard right under your bedroom window for an extended ledge. Decorate with artwork, plants or even incorporate your own tray table like this blogger does. See more at Style by Emily Henderson »16Brighten up the Placegollykim//Getty ImagesA fresh vase of summer flowers has the power to transform any space. Whether in your kitchen, bedroom or bathroom, consider adding a few floral arrangements. You might be surprised how much of a difference it makes. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below17Incorporate AntiquesInspired by Charm18Install More ShelvesStyle by Emily HendersonIf one window sill just isn’t enough, don’t worry. Install more shelves right above the window sill. With open shelving, you’ll have more storage space without blocking any of that much-needed sunlight.See more at Style by Emily Henderson »Advertisement – Continue Reading Below19Decorate a PlanterIt All Started With PaintPut that old planter box to use by incorporating it into your home decor. Fill it with candles, flowers or anything else you want to show off on your window sill. See more at It All Started With Paint »20Keep It FreshJenna Sue DesignLaura 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

For some reason, many people’s vision of grandma’s house tends to consist of the same key features: charming knick knacks, cozy throws, antique glassware and other personality-filled decor. Grandma’s house is eclectic yet traditional, cluttered yet collected and beyond anything else — authentically her own. With over 50,000 posts under the hashtag “Grandmacore,” TikTok users are embracing design features that take them back to the good old days at grandma’s. “I totally get the grandmacore appeal. It’s cozy, personal and a big ol’ hug in decor form. It’s trending because people are craving just that — comfort and a sense of story in their space, especially after years of minimalism’s cold, gray and beige reign,” says Kristina Lawrence of Kristina Lawrence Interior Design.While many of us have fond memories of grandma’s house and seek to recreate the warm, inviting vibe she so gracefully mastered, the “grandmacore aesthetic” is about more than just breaking out a few antiques and throwing some doilies on the table — it can actually be quite tricky to pull off without proper guidance. We spoke to a few interior designers for insight on the trend, including how to nail it while sticking to your own preferred interior design style. Related StoryWhat Is the “Grandmacore Aesthetic?””The grandmacore aesthetic draws inspiration from the cozy, traditional style often associated with, well, grandmas,” says Meghan Jay of Meghan Jay Design. “It emphasizes a nostalgic, layered look through the use of vintage pieces and mixed patterns. The result is a warm, slightly cluttered charm that feels both familiar and cozy.”Think embroidered pillows, tchotchkes and bold wallpaper. Grandmacore is all about building character within a home. “In a time when we’re all being encouraged to lean into individuality, grandmacore is a style that wholeheartedly celebrates you,” says Madison Shoemaker of Inside Stories.Why Is Grandmacore Trending?Retro design trends have been making a comeback for quite some time now. Vintage glassware, decorative molding and antique decor are just a few of the ways homeowners are welcoming design elements of years past back into their homes. But grandmacore is a bit more complex.While incorporating trends from earlier decades is certainly part of grandmacore, there’s another important aspect to the trend — expressing yourself through home design. “Grandmacore invites you to leave out the family photos, display that quirky flea market find and embrace pieces that don’t necessarily ‘match’ but mean something to you,” says Shoemaker.In other words, there’s no particular design feature or piece of decor you should display to achieve the grandmacore aesthetic. It’s more of a concept, one where you can display whatever adds a piece of who you are to a space, and that’s what people love so much about it. Pro Tips to Master the TrendBefore you start digging out all your vintage finds and family heirlooms to scatter throughout the house, take a few pieces of practical advice from pro designers. KatarzynaBialasiewicz//Getty Images ✔️ Find the sweet spot: “Grandmacore subscribes to the ‘more-is-more’ mindset, but eventually you can hit the point of ‘too much.’ Try mixing in a few simpler pieces with clean lines and solid patterns,” says Shoemaker.✔️ Allow for breathing room: “Be sure to create moments where the eye can rest. For example, an armchair in a subtle, tone-on-tone tweed can provide a calming backdrop for a brighter pillow and ottoman,” says Jay. ✔️ Prioritize meaningful pieces: “To decorate grandmacore-style without going full antique store explosion, pick a few meaningful heirlooms with history to them, add some warm textures like lace or velvet, throw in some beautifully patina’d metals and wood and stick to a muted, nature-inspired palette,” says Lawrence. ✔️ Don’t be afraid to mix and match: “The key is to layer textures and prints freely and bring in texture through a mix of hard materials — especially rich, warm wood tones,” says Jay.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