Aurelia Butler

More stories

  • 138 Shares189 Views

    in Home Ideas

    The H&M Home x Pantone Collection Is a Must for Spring

    From dinner parties to outdoor barbecues, these colorful home products are perfect for warm-weather entertaining. Serve up crisp spring salads in bright porcelain bowls, rest refreshing cocktails on vibrant coasters and present summer desserts on side plates. We always look forward to Pantone’s Color of the Year, but this eye-catching capsule offers a fresh way to bring the brand’s curated shades into your home. The new collection, which marks the second time H&M Home and Pantone have teamed up, launches today in select stores and online. Not to mention, these lively tabletop essentials start at only $10. Elevate the dining table with stoneware pedestal bowls, tall porcelain jars and decorative vases, all available in two different color palettes. Reminiscent of tangy oranges and crisp bell peppers, the Sweet & Juicy colors include a spicy red and strong orange. Meanwhile, the Zesty & Fresh shades are revitalizing green, a fresh lime and bright yellow.Shop the H&M Home x Pantone Collection”The vitality of color is essential to the effect it has on our emotions, senses and how easily it transforms our living spaces with just a lick of paint,” says Evelina Kravaev-Söderberg, head of design and creative at H&M HOME. “For this second edition, we have explored the connection between food, taste and color. Perhaps you strictly favor the freshness of green and yellow, or simply want to mix it up adding the spice of red and orange as well — the choice is yours.”Zesty & FreshSweet & JuicyIntroduce a splash of personality in your dining room with this uplifting collection. Or, try a scented candle in the kitchen, living room or bedroom. Pink grapefruit is the essence of the red, while the orange candle smells of sweet mandarin gelato, the yellow of lemon verge and the green offers notes of basil. Now it’s time to find a decorative item that complements your aesthetic!Related StoriesAlyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries. More

  • 100 Shares149 Views

    in Home Ideas

    10 Best Mops of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

    The most effective type of mop is the one that works best for your specific floors — there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, and each type of mop on the market has its own advantages. And you may want to consider having several on hand for different uses. ✔️ Steam mop: If you’re looking to kill germs on your floors without the use of cleaning solutions, a steam mop is the answer. It can reach high enough temperatures to kill bacteria on hard floors in places that may need more attention like bathroom floors and pet areas. They are also very effective at loosening sticky messes like jelly or muddy footprints without the scrubbing regular mops require. The one downside: We don’t recommend steam mops for hardwood floors. Few hardwood floors are in perfectly sealed condition and if steam seeps under the finish, it can damage them.✔️ Spray mop: This type of mop is a great way to wash away grime and clean sticky stains from floors without the mess of a water-filled bucket. Plus, because you control how much cleaner is dispensed, it is a safe and easy way to prevent over-wetting and damaging wood floors. Simply pop on a pre-filled canister of cleaning solution or fill the onboard bottle with your own water-and-cleaner mix. Then, just spray and mop. Spray mops use disposable or washable microfiber pads. ✔️ Dust mop: A dust mop is an excellent option for picking up dry dirt and debris. Lightweight and easy to maneuver, they are less cumbersome than lugging out a vacuum. Since most dust mops are made with microfiber materials, they are also a good option for floors that may scuff easily with a vacuum’s rotating brush roll or plastic wheels. They take either disposable or washable microfiber pads and because they are so slim and flat, they can slip into tight spaces and under low furniture where a vacuum often can’t go. Dust mops can also be used to clean baseboards, crown moldings and walls. ✔️ Sponge mop: These mops come in handy when cleaning up a spill since the sponges — either of cellulose, synthetic or PVA — absorb liquid fast. Most sponge mops are also slim and lightweight, making them a good option for someone who finds other types of mops too heavy or awkward to use or doesn’t want to deal with disposable or washable pads. They come with either a roller or butterfly wringing design, and can require a fair bit of strength to thoroughly squeeze out the sponge. Be sure to rinse them well during use before storing them to control germ growth and odors. They are generally used with a bucket for cleaning and once the sponge mop head gets too dirty to use or it falls apart, it’s time to replace it.✔️ Vacuum mop: The newest category of floor cleaning appliance, vacuum mops can pick up dry dirt, wet messes and wet-clean floors all at the same time and are revolutionizing the way we wash floors. Most are rechargeable, have separate clean and dirty water tanks and mop floors by dispensing a cleaning solution onto the floor via a spinning microfiber brush roll. Self-cleaning models are the easiest to maintain and most have app connections, multiple cleaning modes and voice prompts to guide you. They are convenient, easy to use and always ready when you need them. They do take up a fair bit of storage space, though, so keep that in mind before you buy. ✔️ Spin mop: Spin mops can be manual or electric. They either have round heads with microfiber strings that clean in all directions or they are electric appliances with round spinning microfiber pads. Electric spin mops, like our recommended Bissell, use two rotating microfiber pads to scrub floors with either plain water or a cleaning formula that you dispense from the appliance. The pads are machine washable and reusable and can even be used dry for buffing floors to a shine.Manual spin mops are more like regular string mops. They have round heads with microfiber strings and come with a bucket and a spinning mechanism to make wringing easier and more thorough than you can achieve by hand. Manual spin mops provide 360 degrees of floor cleaning and are easy to maneuver into tight spaces and corners. More

  • 150 Shares119 Views

    in Home Ideas

    Retro Kitchens Are Making a Comeback — in a Very Surprising Color

    Neutrals may have dominated the world of kitchen design for a good while, but the design pendulum is swinging in the opposite direction and making room for a colorful kitchen trend — pink retro kitchens. According to this year’s Pinterest Predicts report, “kitschens” — short for kitchy kitchens — are trending and the search term “pink retro kitchens” is up by 40%. History tends to repeat itself, and that’s certainly the case when it comes to retro styles, as the comeback of this nostalgic 1950’s aesthetic proves. Pink may be an unexpected choice when it comes to kitchen design, but the cheerful color is actually surprisingly versatile. “Pink provides that unique retro charm and is a hue that doesn’t go out of style,” says Mattia Salia, product manager at SMEG, known for its vintage-inspired kitchen appliances. “While playful, pink is also a unique and stylish choice for the kitchen, setting it apart from more traditional colors like white or beige.”Whether pink retro kitchens are right up your vintage-loving alley or you’d rather incorporate the cotton candy hue in more subtle ways, keep reading to learn how to implement whimsical pops of pink into the heart of your home.Photo: Simon-Pierre Grand; Design: Renard FlareWhat is a kitschen?Kitschens epitomize all things kitchy — they blend old-school charm and retro style with fun colors and a touch of sentimental nostalgia. Describing the throwback design trend, Sydney Stanback, global trends and insights lead for Pinterest, says, “People will elevate their kitchen designs and cooking areas with thrifted finds, vintage appliances and eye-jarring pops of paint as they are looking for ‘eclectic kitchen decor,’ ‘kitschy kitchens,’ ‘retro pink kitchens’ and more.”How to get in on the trend:Pair pink with neutrals for visual balance.If you’re itching to try the retro pink kitchen trend but are nervous about it being overpowering, interior designer Julie Arnold of J. Raine Design shares practical advice for implementing the color in a balanced way. “Adding neutrals in strategic places and pairing pink with complementing colors in lighting and flooring is a great way to create a well-balanced look,” says Arnold. Juxtapose pink cabinets with the warmth of butcher block kitchen countertops, refrain from using other brights in the space, opt for a soft shade of pink and layer in plenty of white surfaces for an elevated take on retro charm.Design by Dane Austin Design, Photo by Sean LitchfieldIncorporate pink through unexpected accents.”Incorporating pink into your kitchen can be a fun and stylish way to add personality to the space,” Salia says. But, you don’t have to go with all-pink-everything to implement the retro color trend. For a more subtle approach, use pink in strategic smaller doses through a contrasting kitchen island, a fun accent wall, a statement backsplash or as Salia suggests, “through small countertop appliances and fridges that do not require a huge financial or design commitment.” Pink Silicone Utensils SetSMEG Retro Electric KettlePink Coffee MatPink Arabesque TilesMerge charm and character with modern comforts.As the home’s natural gathering spot, kitchens are inherently warm and inviting. The right shade of retro-inspired pink adds personality, a unique mood-boosting energy and a touch of coziness, and Salia adds that “it evokes feelings of whimsy and nostalgia that provide a warmth to the kitchen.”When it comes to blending the old with the new, Arnold says, “Retro-inspired kitchens are a fun option for era-appropriate homes because they blend fun colors and classic looks with modern comforts.” She stresses the importance of keeping the original character and charm of the space in mind during the design process and striking the right balance between retro design and contemporary style. “It’s all about preserving that original vibe but adding a touch of today.”Photo: Mark Hurrish; Design: J. Raine DesignRelated StoriesMaria Sabella is a lifestyle writer with a passion for home and interiors — from paint colors and holiday decor to the latest design trends. Her work has appeared in outlets including Better Homes & Gardens, The Spruce, BuzzFeed and Bustle.  More

  • 100 Shares149 Views

    in Home Ideas

    10 Best Toilet Bowl Cleaners, Tested by Experts

    ✔️ Type: When it comes to selecting a cleaner for inside the bowl to tackle hard water rings, rust stains and more, the options are endless and there’s no one-size-fits-all product. Thick liquids are formulated to cling to vertical bowl surfaces to coat and dissolve stuck-on stains so they are easier to brush away. While some people may prefer a traditional liquid toilet cleaner and toilet brush, others may like the convenience of a toilet wand with a disposable cleaning head that’s pre-loaded with cleaner. There are also tablets and gels that either go in the toilet tank or attach inside the toilet bowl to help keep your toilet clean in between deep cleanings by automatically dispensing a bit of cleaner with every flush to clean continuously and keep soil from accumulating. Look for cleaners specifically geared toward your toilet’s problem stains. For example, rust is best taken care of with a cleaner that’s specifically formulated to remove rust.✔️ Ingredients: While certain ingredients, like bleach, are great for removing tough stains and disinfecting the toilet, they may not be the right choice for homes with kids or pets, or those who do not want to be exposed to a chemical smell. Also, some gels and tablets may be safe for toilet tanks or septic systems while others may not be recommended. Despite any manufacturer claims around safety, concentrated cleaners are best used in toilets that are flushed regularly. Be sure to check the labels to ensure the cleaner fits your lifestyle and needs.✔️ Longevity: The lifespan of toilet cleaners can vary, especially with tablets and gels. Some tablets and gels can last anywhere from a week to a few months. Make sure to read the label for how long the manufacturer says the product in question lasts so you’ll know how frequently you need to replace them. More

  • 138 Shares149 Views

    in Home Ideas

    How to Remove Mildew From Walls, Fabric, Wood Furniture and More

    Mildew thrives in moist, damp spaces — think dark spots on your clothes, powdery clusters on wood furniture or black gunk in the corners of your shower. The disgusting fungus may be hiding in neglected areas of your home, such as the garage, basement or under the kitchen sink. You can spot mildew during early stages as white or gray powdery dots, but the fungus can also turn yellow, brown or dark gray. “Mildew is not only unsightly, but can be irritating, especially to family members with allergies or other respiratory sensitivities,” says Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab. “If it’s not addressed promptly, it can quickly spread to become a more dangerous and serious situation.” It’s often the first clue that something needs to be handled, like fixing a leak or controlling your home’s humidity level.Luckily, we’ve rounded up expert advice for mildew removal — whether you’ve got a situation growing on walls, upholstery, carpets, clothes or more! Follow our step-by-step instructions to stop mildew in its tracks. Plus, keep scrolling for prevention tips, the difference between mildew and mold growth and a few of our favorite cleaning products. Remove Mildew From Upholstery Upholstered furniture, like a mattress or sofa, that’s been damaged by water or may have mildew growing inside should be discarded. If you’re dealing with a small mildew stain, here is the best way to tackle it: Vacuum the entire surface. For remaining stains, sponge the surface with a cloth moistened in equal parts rubbing alcohol and warm water. We suggest doing a spot-test first to make sure the fabric won’t damage. (Note: If your cushions are removable, remove the cover before cleaning. But, look out for any mildew that may have spread to the cushion.) Wipe the upholstery with a water-dampened sponge. Fan dry the upholstery for several hours; sprinkle on and brush in baking soda to help remove odors.Spray the surface with a disinfectant, like Lysol, to kill spores that can linger. RFStock//Getty ImagesDue to the moisture, mildew thrives on bathroom walls and grout. Remove Mildew From WallsMildew tends to linger on walls, tiles and grout, especially in the bathroom where ventilation is poor. It’s important to stop growth during early stages. Here’s how:Mix ¾ cup bleach with one gallon of water (equal to 3 tablespoons bleach to one quart water for smaller areas).Apply mixture with a soft scrub brush for walls or a stiff brush for grout (don’t forget to wear gloves).Let the solution penetrate for 15 minutes before rinsing with water.Wipe dry. Then, use a fan to dry the surface thoroughly.Expert Tip: When cleaning mildew, always wear a face covering, long rubber gloves and protective eyewear.Remove Mildew From ClothingYou may notice a mildew scent or mold spores on clothing or linens that have been stored in a moist attic or basement. Luckily, if you follow these steps, you may not have to throw away mildewed clothing.Use a stiff brush to remove mold spores (we suggest doing so outdoors).Sun dry the item for about three hours.Check the care labels and if safe, use chlorine bleach or pre-soak colored fabrics for 30 minutes in liquid non-chlorine bleach. For mild stains, you can instead soak the area in equal parts white vinegar and water.Rinse and machine wash as usual.Remove Mildew From Shower CurtainsIf you step into the bathtub and notice that your shower curtain is dotted with mildew, take action quick. Quick prevention tip: Spread out your shower curtain or lining to help it dry.Wash plastic liners or plastic shower curtains in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with the regular amount of detergent — you can also add bleach. Add two to three bath towels for extra cleaning agitation. (If your shower curtain is fabric or decorative, wash according to the care instructions).Hang curtain to dry or put it the dryer on low for a few minutes to remove excess moisture. Never leave a plastic liner or curtain in the dryer unattended.Farah Kilani//Getty ImagesFor larger mildew stains, try a steam cleaner on carpets.Remove Mildew From CarpetsWhether you’ve experienced a little flooding or a room is overly damp or humid, mildew can grow on carpets. You may notice a musty smell or greenish stains. Carpets and rugs that are completely saturated by dirty flood water, should be discarded.Make sure the space is dry. Use a wet-dry vacuum to remove water. If possible, hang rugs or carpets outside in the sun to dry. If it’s not possible, open windows and use fans. to air out the space. Try to pick up wet sections if you can to make sure the padding and flooring underneath dry thoroughly.For small stains, use a carpet stain remover. Or, clean and rinse the carpet with a steam cleaner for larger stains.For lingering odors, spray a mixture of one part vinegar and two parts warm water onto the carpet. Allow it to sit overnight. Sprinkle the area with baking soda, and vacuum it up after a few minutes. You may also spray the carpet afterwards with Lysol disinfectant spray, according to label directions to sanitize the surface.Remove Mildew on Wood SurfacesWhen exposed to moisture, mildew can grow on wood cabinets, paneling or furniture in the form of white powdery spots. Vacuum loose spores with the soft brush attachment.Clean small areas using a well-wrung cloth dipped in a few squirts of dishwasher detergent mixed with a gallon of water.Rinse with a clean, water-dampened cloth and dry immediately with a fan. Be careful, not to oversaturate the wood as it could warp or damage the finish.Apply a thin coat of Good Housekeeping Seal holder Weiman Furniture Polish to restore the shine and protect the finish.Expert tip: After vacuuming mildew spores, toss the filter and bag to prevent spores from escaping into the air next time you vacuum.What are the best products for cleaning mildew?What’s the difference between mold and mildew?Mildew, a type of mold, is easier to remove and tends to less dangerous than other types of mold (think black mold). Although, both microscopic fungi can cause health problems and damage to your home. Mildew is typically more visible during early stages and pops up as white or gray powdery dots. It may turn yellow or brown, but generally remains pretty flat. Mold appears darker, often in shades of red, green or black and can have a fuzzy texture. While the mold and mildew can be treated in similar ways, read our tips for removing stubborn mold spots if you suspect a mold outbreak. How can I prevent mildew?Use a top-tested dehumidifier to keep damp areas, like the basement or bathroom, dry and maintain indoor humidity levels.Open the bathroom door during and after showering to allow moisture out.Dry or squeegee shower walls, floor and tub after showering to remove excess moisture and help surfaces dry faster.If you have bathroom tiles, seal grout lines every year to waterproof the surface. Avoid storing linens, books or furniture in damp basements or attics.Don’t leave damp towels or gym clothes in bags or closets.Track down and fix leaks as soon as possible.Related Stories..Lauren is a senior editor at Hearst. She was previously the senior editor at WomansDay.com and the home editor at GoodHousekeeping.com and HouseBeautiful.com. Her book club, ramen, and jean jackets are a few of her favorite things.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.Carolyn 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

  • 88 Shares169 Views

    in Home Ideas

    GH Seal Spotlight: Bath Planet by BCI

    Score a brand-new look for your bathroom with a super-convenient upgrade from this GH Seal star that takes the stress out of renovation and upkeep. Bath PlanetBath PlanetWHY IT EARNED THE GH SEALBath Planet products proved a smart pick for nearly every style and need in our engineers’ extensive review thanks to the fade and mold-resistant design, easy setup, and more. QUICK PRO INSTALLATION The long-lasting, customizable bathtub, shower or walk-in tub solutions are installed by a professional within the footprint of your existing bathing space, so there’s no serious demo required. Installation is often under two days.QUALITY CONSTRUCTION The high-tech polymer surfaces are scratch-resistant and non-porous, which helps keep mold and mildew from growing. They’re also designed to ward off the pesky staining and yellowing that can be common with other options.EASY-CARE MATERIALS The durable surfaces won’t show wear and tear — simple wipe downs with a non-abrasive household cleaner is all that’s needed to keep them looking new.TONS OF VARIETY No matter what you’re looking for, the brand offers many great options for an upgraded bathroom, including their patented REVEAL laser-etched tub and shower surrounds that resemble designer tile, without the maintenance demands of porous grout. Complete your dream bath makeover with a range of accessories, including seats, shelving and more.Go to bathplanet.com for more info and to set up a consultation. More

  • 138 Shares139 Views

    in Home Ideas

    9 Best Laundry Stain Removers of 2024, Tested by Cleaning Experts

    You’ll have four major considerations:✔️ Form: There are sprays, gels, powders, foams, solid sticks and liquid stain removers, plus portable options in wipe and pen form. What you choose depends on personal preference and where you are when you notice the stains. Sprays, gels and foams are the easiest to apply, but some must then go into the washing machine quickly and others can wait up to a week, so read the label. Powders and liquids can be best for presoaking before you run your load of laundry. Solid sticks (not on our list) often require a little extra muscle to apply evenly to garments but can be convenient for travel. ✔️ Type of stain: There are four types of common stains: protein (e.g., blood and eggs), tannin (e.g., tea and coffee), dyes (e.g., mustard and berries) and oil-based (e.g., makeup and cooking oil). In general, wash protein stains in cool water as heat can cause them to set. For all other kinds of stains, wash in the warmest water the garment can withstand. Since there are stain removers made for specific types of stains, and stain removers that work best in different water temperatures, you’ll want to check the stain remover label.✔️ Fabric: A stain remover’s label usually states what kind of fabrics it is safe to use on. Some may contain bleach which shouldn’t be used on colored garments. Your garment labels should also be inspected before applying laundry pretreatment or soaking in hot water. Equally important is checking the fabric for colorfastness by applying the stain remover to a hidden spot of the garment, allowing it to sit for five minutes, then rinsing and allowing it to dry. If the fabric color is affected, do not use this stain remover anywhere else on the garment. ✔️ Time: For quick fixes out of the house, wipes and pens are your best bet. If you can wait overnight or whenever you’ve scheduled your next laundry day, opt for a spray, gel or liquid formula, checking to see how long it can be allowed to set. If you’ll use a powder for presoaking, factor that hour or more in on laundry day. More

  • 125 Shares169 Views

    in Style Tips

    How to Get the Look of a Nancy Meyers Kitchen

    I have always loved the cozy timeless homes featured in Nancy Meyers movies such as Father of the Bride and Something’s Gotta Give and It’s Complicated.
    Increasingly I’ve been receiving messages on social media from people saying they spotted my new kitchen in several online “inspiration” videos and Pinterest boards that people have labeled as the “Nancy Meyers Aesthetic.” Two more showing my kitchen were messaged to me just today, so it seems that I’ve inadvertently captured a trending “Nancy Meyers” style in my own home. I do love this classic look and always have. I’m happy to hear that people love a timeless look as much as I do (but of course I wish people would at least credit my photos when they feature them.)
    I know it helps to break elements of a room down so you can see what it is that achieves a certain style, so that’s what we’ll do here today!
    Sources: Rattan Cart // Click here for all above sources
    The real magic behind “Nancy Meyers” style in many of these movies is that her kitchens are always feel so warm and welcoming. Don’t you agree? They feel like a place where people want to gather and make memories. Each kitchen is different, but there are some common threads that make these spaces feel like home to so many people.
    Choose appropriate architectural elements
    If a kitchen renovation is on the horizon for you, I think one of the keys to getting this “come in and make yourself at home” style is in selecting a mix of classic, interesting elements that are also appropriate for the home.
    In each Nancy Meyers movie, you can sense the feeling of being welcomed into the home as you go from room to room and into the kitchen. If the kitchen style didn’t make any sense with the rest of the home, you’d feel like you walked onto a different set! To get that same feeling in a real home, the elements chosen for a kitchen should make sense within the style and context of the rest of the home.
    The style of my own home was influenced by traditional cottages on Nantucket. We carried this same style through to our kitchen with choices that will make our home feel cohesive and welcoming for years to come.
    Architecture is a place where you can get creative in a renovation, but you really want to select elements that will make you feel at home there years from now, too. We’re still talking about Nancy Meyers movie kitchens decades later!
    Sources: Wood Oval Tray // Scalloped Lampshade Lamp and more
    Incorporate elements that aren’t pretentious
    Nancy Meyers kitchens are very nice, but they never feel pretentious!
    Regardless of your style you want to add a mix of elements that will feel warm and inviting so they feel lived in.
    For our new kitchen, we chose timeless elements such as honed Carrara marble and soapstone. A nickel faucet. Tongue and groove paneling. Creamy white cabinets in a traditional style. Timeless elements can feel classy yet unpretentious. They always feel like a home that has been around awhile, rather than one designed around the newest looks from a designer show room.
    It is true that organic finishes such as marble or soapstone will show the patina of age. While many people fear those signs of life, I embrace them because to me patina from daily use feels more welcoming and unpretentious. I wanted our own kitchen to feel like it has been in our family for years. Those signs of life will simply be evidence that our kitchen is enjoyed and has been a gathering place for family. (I wrote more about our countertop decision in this post.)
    Sources: Farmhouse Sink // Nickel Faucet (linked the same brand, finish and style of faucet I have but I bought mine through deVOL Kitchens, it appears to be a special deVOL edition and the price I paid was far less than the version on Amazon) // Rug: World Market (washable, Niko Blue and Rust Distressed Rug) or here is another similar washable rug, and one other similar rug // Kitchen Hardware // Brass Pendant Lights (other finish available)
    Include an inviting center island
    You sense that a Nancy Meyers kitchen is a gathering place. Whether it is large or small, or built in or free standing, center islands offer a sense of invitation. Islands are a destination where people can gather around to help in the kitchen or talk about the events of the day.

    Add nooks for display
    Nancy Meyers kitchens feel lived in by real people! Built ins or free standing furniture such as a little nooks or shelves, a bar cart, bookcase, plate rack or china hutch will bring a sense of personality, warmth and character which is essential in the “Nancy Meyers” kitchen aesthetic.
    We added several book nooks in our renovation so we can have our collection of books and cookbooks, art and other pretty pieces within reach and to add style through the ever-evolving seasons.
    Favorite Cookbooks // Favorite Home and Garden Design Inspiration Books
    Sources: Toile Cafe Curtain and how I hung it // See the stool niche behind the curtain here // Click here for all above sources
    Try Touchable Textures
    A variety of touchable textures help create more interest in a kitchen. Look for ways to bring in softness, color and personality through fabrics, curtains or rugs. In our kitchen we added rugs, pillows on the nearby banquette bench, as well as cafe curtains on our “stool niche” and window. We also incorporate a variety of other textures that add to the “touch-ability factor” such as such as a mix of marble, bamboo, rattan, soapstone, and wood.
    Click here for above sources
    Bring in plants and flowers
    Flowers and plants bring a sense of life to a kitchen which creates a more welcoming atmosphere. Put them into collected vases, pitchers and pots for an additional sense of character.
    Source: Rattan Basket
    Set out bowls of fruit and vegetables
    A bowl of fruit or vegetables adds to the simple charm of a lived in kitchen. Whether they are real or not, they make you feel like this is kitchen where people cook and eat real food!
    Sources: Toaster (color options) // Gold Frame // Kitchen Hardware
    Decorate with plates
    Plates are a classic element that can be used for more than just a meal! Hang them on the wall, stack them on a shelf or a plate rack to give it that charming “we live here” Nancy Meyers’ kitchen mood.
    Related Post: How I Hang Plates, Platters, and Bowls on the Wall
    Put every day on display
    A Nancy Meyers kitchen doesn’t feel cluttered or messy, but a glimpse into the every day lives of the people who work in that space makes it feel so much more like home. Hide what isn’t attractive but if your toaster is pretty, don’t hesitate to leave it out! If you use your stand mixer often, let it sit on the counter.
    Incorporating glass front cabinets for pretty items you don’t use as often will help items stay clean but still allows you to enjoy them as part of your decor.
    Place cooking or serving tools into stylish crocks, baskets or other containers. This adds style and but also organization and practicality where everything needed is within reach.
    And no need to fear of everything getting dusty. Items stay cleaner when you use and wash them often so if dust is a concern, reserve display for every day items!
    Find kitchen accessories here in my Amazon Storefront and more at the end of this post!
    Sources: Pendant Lights (similar to mine) // My Pendants
    Invite in lighting
    Pendants over islands, wall sconces or lamps on a counter are an opportunity to add personality as well as make a kitchen feel warm and welcoming even at night.
    Paint cabinets
    A soft or creamy white cabinet never goes out of style. You see them in several of Nancy Meyers movies. Her own real life kitchen is a soft white, so similar to the Something’s Gotta Give kitchen! We chose a soft creamy white for our English Tudor kitchen years ago and I still love that classic look today so we chose it again in our current kitchen!
    Paint is a “simple” way to update any kitchen. Not always cheap or easy, but much simpler than a renovation.
    White isn’t the only option for a Nancy Meyers look, try a color you love. Or mix in traditional wood tones for cabinets or islands!
    Someone had messaged me years ago after seeing “The Intern” movie because the kitchen cabinet color and subway tile reminded her of my own kitchen at the time. My kitchen had been updated before the movie ever came out. Dark painted cabinets were not yet trending at the time of my renovation, but I just felt like that darker color contrasted with classic white subway tile is what my builder grade kitchen needed. The email sender was convinced my kitchen inspired Nancy’s movie kitchen! Wouldn’t that be funny? Perhaps it did. The power of Pinterest …. and classic kitchens.
    My cabinet and wall paint color is Classic Light Buff by Sherwin Williams.

    Keep it classic
    I’ve loved designing all of my kitchens with classic elements and I love them all still! Over the past 17 or so years I’ve been messaged about ALL of my kitchens at one time or another feeling like a Nancy Meyers kitchen. We definitely share a love of classic kitchens! (Take a tour of my last kitchen here, and the kitchen before that here)
    The truth is that a Nancy Meyers kitchen incorporates the elements of so many classic kitchens that have been around for ages, long before the movies came out. Yet it is so fun that we can all watch and rewatch these movies and fall in love with them over and over again. They are timeless so they will continue to be loved by so many! These kitchens have captured our hearts and the longing we all have for our homes to be warm and welcoming.
    I hope you are inspired by all the ways you can create a kitchen you love by incorporating classic elements found in the Nancy Meyers aesthetic.

    Sources:
    White Lamp with Scalloped Shade (several color options and 2 size options)
    Patterned Rug (washable)
    Brass Hanging Bells
    Bamboo Roman Shades (see photos of these in our home here)
    Spode Blue and White Sugar Bowl
    Blue and White Striped Linen Napkins
    Stoneware Crock
    Wood Salt and Pepper Mills
    Cookbook
    Wood Cutting Board
    White and Wood Kitchen Island (Freestanding)
    Tea Kettle (many color options)
    Landscape Artwork
    Woven Scalloped Bowl
    Pendant Lights (similar to mine)
    Faux Boxwood Topiary
    Looking for more of my kitchen sources and details? Find them in my Kitchen Reveal + tour post here!
    More Get the Look Sources below (click the thumbnails for details): More