Aurelia Butler

Interior designers are pretty decisive professionals. After all, it’s one of the top reasons clients rely on their expertise, whether they find joy in crafting minimalist spaces or dreaming up rooms filled with pattern and color. They’re hired to make design choices with unwavering confidence — think picking stylish paint colors, shopping for the perfect sofa or choosing the right mix of decorative accessories to complete a room. Given their clear point of view and ability to bring their creative vision to life in homes of all styles, I couldn’t help but ask a few interior designers what things they’d never do in their own homes. Their candid thoughts will make you look at decorating in a whole new way. 1. Buying the entire furniture setAccording to designer Lindsie Davis, one of the biggest decorating blunders out there is outfitting your home like a furniture store. “Matching sets may be convenient, but they strip a room of individuality,” says Davis, founder of Blueberry Jones Design. “Instead, take your time and mix materials, shapes, finishes and styles to create a collected, layered feel that evolves over time, not something that looks pulled straight from a showroom.” Plan A Office//Getty Images2. Not layering bedding Your bedroom is meant to be an escape and bedding has a lot to do with creating a cozy, peaceful atmosphere. Designer Becky Shea of Becky Shea Design says a fitted sheet, top sheet, duvet and a coverlet, with a soft blanket folded at the foot of the bed are a non-negotiable for her. “Layering your bed is so important—not just for visual appeal, but for comfort and quality sleep,” Shea says. “We spend a significant portion of our lives in bed, and it’s the place where we recharge and restore. So for the minimalists out there who stick to just a fitted sheet and duvet, I’d encourage giving layers a try. You might be surprised by how much of a difference they make.”Related Story3. Skipping pattern and colorIf there’s one thing designer Autumn Pochiro does in her home, it’s not overlooking pattern and color. The perfect example? Her Ohio dining room that’s filled with daring florals and a teal paint shade. “Our dining room is my little jewel box of color and pattern,” says Pochiro of Autumn Dawn Design. “Painted in three coats of Benjamin Moore’s Venezuelan Sea in a high-gloss finish, this room greets our guests with an element of surprise. I enjoy the intoxicating power of pattern, texture and color layers. Color makes people happy. Bold pattern drapes floor to ceiling, giving an impact, as if the color weren’t enough.”draganab//Getty Images4. Hanging art just to fill a wallThere’s no point in displaying art that’s not meaningful to you. Buy art with intention and be thoughtful when decorating with it. “Blank walls aren’t a bad thing,” says Davis. “I prefer waiting for the right piece of artwork to be found rather than settling for something just to ‘complete’ a room. Art should have meaning and contribute to the story of the space, not just take up square footage.”5. Settling on a specific time period or brand When furnishing a room, designer Keita Turner of Keita Turner Design keeps diversity top of mind. “I avoid limiting myself to a single period or brand, instead choosing to mix complementary antique, vintage and modern pieces. This approach enhances a space’s character and creates an inviting atmosphere that reflects personal history.” Turner aims for a mix of materials and textures for depth as well as unique accessories, including vintage end tables or statement artwork, that serve as conversation-starters. 6. Relying on recessed lighting “Not only is decorative lighting the jewelry of the home, helping to express a home’s style, but it also plays an essential role in setting a home’s ambiance,” says designer Ashley Macuga of Collected Interiors. Macuga finds recessed lighting to be too bright and harsh. Instead, she suggests opting for an assortment of light fixtures. “A layered plan—including sconces, pendants, table lamps and under-cabinet lighting—brings light closer to eye level, and adds depth and warmth by lighting from different angles,” the designer says.Related Story7. Using improperly scaled furnishings or lightingDon’t underestimate the power of scale when it comes to furniture and lighting. “Scale is everything,” Davis says. “A beautiful sofa or chandelier loses all its impact if it doesn’t suit the room’s proportions. Always measure and plan first to ensure that each piece feels balanced and intentional within the space.” 8. Decorating with a rigid timelineDecorating takes time, and designer Katie Cunningham of Light and Dwell never rushes the process. “In my home, I let things happen more organically rather than forcing everything to come together at once,” Cunningham says. “This patience usually results in more thoughtful, collected-over-time interiors that feel authentic to how I actually live.”9. Not ordering samples”Never trust a finish, fabric or paint color based solely on a screen,” says Davis. “Always order samples before making final selections.” It’s important to view materials in your home’s lighting conditions, which “ensures a cohesive palette and avoids costly mistakes.”Related StoriesMonique 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

Multigenerational living isn’t new — the concept of two or more adult generations sharing a roof is historically common. While it became less popular in the 20th century (possibly due to the rise of assisted living facilities and the increased affordability of independent living), the trend is slowly reversing. In recent decades, real estate experts have noticed a major rise in multigenerational homes. As of 2024, 1 in 4 homeowners are living in multigenerational households, according to Angi’s State of Home Spending survey. “With high interest rates, low housing inventory and shifts in how people live resulting from COVID-19, we’re seeing more people choosing to live in multigenerational homes,” says Angie Hicks, co-founder of Angi. “Millennials who may not be able to afford their own home might consider moving in with parents. Parents who are aging may choose to move in with their children to help with childcare and help divide the expenses of owning a home.”The National Association of Realtors’ 2025 Home Buyers and Sellers Generational Trends report reveals that 17% of all home buyers purchased a multigenerational home between July 2023 and June 2024 – up from 14% the previous year. Generation X (those born between 1965 and 1980) are leading the way, with 21% buying multigenerational homes. What is a multigenerational home?A multigenerational home is a household where at least two adult generations reside under one roof. Multigenerational living can take various forms — think grandparents living with their children and grandchildren or adult children residing with their parents.In a multigenerational home, the family often shares living spaces, but the pro may also be designed with separate common spaces. What’s Trending in Real EstateWhy is multigenerational living on the rise? Multigenerational homes are becoming more popular due to a number of economic and social factors, from the rising cost of housing to longer life expectancies to the cultural impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are the main reasons:✔️ It saves money.The biggest reason for purchasing a multigenerational home: Cost savings. According to NAR’s report, 36% of homebuyers chose a multigenerational home to save money. A family is available to split living expenses, like mortgage payments, rent, property taxes, utility bills and maintenance costs. Grandparents may also provide free childcare, or younger members may provide elder care. ✔️ There’s a housing shortage. It’s true: There are not enough homes available for sale to meet the current demand from U.S. buyers. According to a report from Zillow, the U.S. is short 4.5 million homes and the housing deficit continues to grow. Sharing a home with relatives could be a simple solution. ✔️ Adult children are living with their parents.Whether it’s due to student loan debt, the housing market or a cultural shift, it’s evident that adult children aren’t in a rush to move out of their parents’ homes. According to NAR’s report, 21% of multigenerational households exist because children over the age of 18 are moving back home, while an additional 20% of adult children never left.✔️ The pandemic created a cultural shift. The pandemic changed how people live in a lot of ways. According to a study from Generations United, Family Matters: Multigenerational Living is on the Rise and Here to Stay, 57% of people living in a multigenerational home say they started because of the COVID-19 pandemic — and 7 in 10 people say they plan to continue. ✔️ There’s a need for elder care. The population is aging and more families are choosing to provide care for elderly relatives. According to NAR’s report, 25% of buyers purchased a multigenerational home to take care of aging parents.Related StoryHow does multigenerational living impact the market?Among buyers, there’s an increased demand for larger homes and flexible layouts, including homes with separate living areas often referred to as a mother-daughter home. Other popular features are accessible bathrooms and first-floor bedrooms for aging relatives. “As people house hunt, they might look for homes that can accommodate an extra suite for parents or space that could be turned into an accessory dwelling unit, like a garage,” says Hicks.This trend is also “reshaping home design and renovation priorities,” according to Hicks. “With 1 in 4 homeowners living in multigenerational households, these households are more likely to be taking on larger renovations and adding lifestyle-enhancing features to their homes.” More Real Estate AdviceAlyssa 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

The “relaxed luxury” trend shows no signs of slowing down, and designer Laura Lubin of Ellerslie Interiors is embracing it for the season. Think “spaces that feel effortless but are thoughtfully layered,” Lubin explains. Curious about how to make it work for your home? Lubin likes to focus on a few different colors and materials, as well as her outdoor space. “Natural materials like linen, cane and bleached woods are big, paired with sun-faded tones like ochre, soft green and warm white,” the designer says. “There’s also a real focus on outdoor living, designing patios and terraces with the same attention to detail as interior spaces, using custom pieces, soft lighting, and beautiful textures that invite you to stay a while.” Photo by: Zeke Ruelas More

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2Best Value Sloggers Original Waterproof Rain and Garden Shoe Now 19% OffCredit: SloggersShaft height: 4 inches (clog style) | Weight per shoe: 1.1 pounds | Material: 90-percent recycled plastic, rubberIf you need a shoe for a quick trip outside to water your containers or garden beds, these shoes slip on and off in a sec. They’re nice and cushioned, too, so they’re comfortable. They also come in a ton of adorable patterns from chickens to flowers.I’ve had several pairs of these through the years, and I love their budget-friendly price tag. They also last a good two to three seasons with occasional wear. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below3Best Cold/Wet Weather BootMuck Boot Company Women’s Chore TallCredit: Muck BootsProsGood heat retention in cold, wet weatherExcellent traction in mudHeight keeps out debrisConsMore difficult to pull off than mid-calf heightsShaft height: 15.9 inches | Weight per shoe: 2.75 pounds | Material: Neoprene, rubberSpring and fall can be chilly in the garden, so these are great boots for doing chores in cool or wet-weather months, such as planting bulbs or raking leaves. The calf is wide (but not sloppy looking), so it’s easy to get these boots off and on. I’ve used mine for about five seasons now — even wearing them for the occasional snow-shoveling job and they still look new. While they’re a little toasty for summer days, they’re comfortable for the rest of the gardening year so your toes won’t freeze on cold days. 4Best Light Duty Garden BootsDuluth Trading Women’s Pattern Rain BootsCredit: Duluth TradingProsSolid lug sole for good tractionThick rubber to protect toesRoomy and easy to pull on and offConsA little less flexible shaft than other choicesShaft height: 11.5 inches | Weight per shoe: 1.6 pounds | Material: RubberDuluth gets my vote for many of its garden-related products because they’re thoughtfully designed. These rain boots have a great lug sole, which prevents me from sliding around in the garden. With a sturdy, solid heel for digging chores, they’re designed so that you can put your foot on the garden spade without it slipping off.I love the cheerful pattern of these boots, which also make them cute enough to wear into town on wet days. They’re also reasonably priced. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below5Best SplurgeLe Chameau Giverny Jersey Lined BottillonCredit: Le ChameauProsLong-lastingSoft, flexible, comfortable rubberGood support but room for orthoticsConsPriceyShaft height: 11.5 inches | Weight per shoe: 1.4 pounds | Material: RubberThis legendary brand, which has been making rubber boots since 1927, is beautifully handmade and long-lasting. It’s impervious to rain and molds well to your foot. It’s roomy enough to slide in and out of without a struggle, which is one of the reasons I prefer the mid-calf style. I also like that these are flexible, comfortable, and roomy without being too loose. They don’t have a ton of support on their own, but I can slip my orthotics into them if I will be doing a lot of walking. Of course, they’re also cute enough for rainy afternoons in the city. Arricca Elin SanSone is a writer, editor, and content creator who specializes in lifestyle and gardening. With a background in health reporting, she applies these same research skills when writing about the science of growing things. She trials new plants in her expansive garden, and her houseplant collection consists of 60+ varieties. Arricca has written thousands of articles for publications such as Country Living, House Beautiful, Good Housekeeping, Prevention, VERANDA, Southern Living, and more. She’s happiest when digging in the dirt, baking, or spending time with the people and dogs she loves.Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

According to a survey by KB Home, 83% of Americans would not be willing to sacrifice a modern floor plan when purchasing a home.Despite the popularity of open-concept layouts in the past, homeowners are redefining their ideal floor plan to better suit their current needs.Designers share the key features of the “new” modern floor plan and why they’re so popular.There’s something undeniably luxurious about a large, open home where you can seamlessly walk from the kitchen to the living room and dining room without opening a single door. It sounds lovely. But is it practical?For years, homeowners requested less walls and more open space. The star of the modern floor plan was one grand room where you could do it all — host friends and family, relax on the couch, cook and eat meals and more. Nowadays, that request is becoming less and less prevalent in home design. Homeowners today have a new idea of what a modern floor plan should consist of, and they are not willing to make any compromises. According to a survey by KB Home, 83% of Americans said that if they had a set budget and had to make a trade-off, they would not be willing to sacrifice a modern floor plan. But if the desire for a wide open home with little to no walls is on the decline, what exactly are people looking for these days? Is there a new star of the modern floor plan? We spoke to several design pros to find out.The New Modern Floor Plan, ExplainedWhen asked how the concept of the modern floor plan has transformed over the years, designers all agreed. “The bigger, the better” mindset is out. Now, it’s all about a modest footprint with a more strategic layout. “Today’s modern floor plan isn’t just about removing walls; it’s about smart design that maximizes every square foot. It’s about making good use of all the square footage within the home, ensuring every corner serves a purpose and enhances daily living,” says Gena Kirk, vice president, Corporate Studio, at KB Home.Erik Isakson//Getty ImagesWide open spaces that connect are no longer a must-have feature of the modern floor plan.While it’s natural for design trends to evolve over time, the pandemic certainly played a role in this particular shift. “Lately, people are craving a bit more separation, especially after the pandemic made us all rethink how we use our homes. Now it’s more about finding that sweet spot between open and defined, so spaces feel both connected and functional,” says Meghan Jay of Meghan Jay Design.After being forced to spend much more time at home than any of us were used to, it makes sense that our definition of the ideal floor plan would change to better suit our needs. Sure, that grand room does look fabulous, but when you’re actually using it all day every day, its flaws become much easier to spot. Key FeaturesDesigners agree that the new modern floor plan consists of a few key features that differentiate it from traditional open-concept layouts.Highly-functional flex spaces: “Flex spaces are adaptable areas within a home that can serve multiple functions over time based on the modern family’s evolving needs. One year, it’s a nursery; the next, it’s a home office or workout zone. These rooms often don’t have a rigid purpose, which is what makes them so valuable. A well-designed flex space ensures that no square foot is wasted and allows homeowners to personalize their home as their lifestyle shifts,” says Kate Rainwater, interior designer at Inside Stories.Charday Penn//Getty ImagesNature that’s integrated: Connected spaces are still popular, but more and more homeowners are now focused on how this relates to the outdoors. “Consider how an indoor space can open directly onto an outdoor patio, instantly extending your entertaining and relaxation areas. These integrated indoor-outdoor spaces aren’t just aesthetically pleasing, they make hosting gatherings a breeze and simplify daily tasks by providing room to move and congregate,” says Kirk. Smart storage: Interiors that integrate organization “have propelled the industry to look at unique ways spaces to support busy lifestyles more efficiently and beautifully than ever,” says Whitney Jones, lead interior designer of Copper Sky Design + Remodel. That means more well-thought-out storage solutions like mudrooms and ample closet space throughout the home.Catherine McQueen//Getty ImagesDesignated “messy” spots: “Homeowners want to close the door on the household mess and the chaos of entertainment prep so that guests can mingle in a beautifully curated kitchen,” says Jones. Think scullery spaces and walk-in pantries. Nuanced separation: “Homeowners now prefer subtle architectural or design elements — like ceiling treatments or furniture placement — to create ‘rooms within rooms,'” says Rainwater. This middle ground allows people to embrace privacy and practicality at home without having to choose between an entirely closed or open-concept layout.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

2Best Value Sloggers Original Waterproof Rain and Garden Shoe Now 19% OffCredit: SloggersShaft height: 4 inches (clog style) | Weight per shoe: 1.1 pounds | Material: 90-percent recycled plastic, rubberIf you need a shoe for a quick trip outside to water your containers or garden beds, these shoes slip on and off in a sec. They’re nice and cushioned, too, so they’re comfortable. They also come in a ton of adorable patterns from chickens to flowers.I’ve had several pairs of these through the years, and I love their budget-friendly price tag. They also last a good two to three seasons with occasional wear. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below3Best Cold/Wet Weather BootMuck Boot Company Women’s Chore TallCredit: Muck BootsProsGood heat retention in cold, wet weatherExcellent traction in mudHeight keeps out debrisConsMore difficult to pull off than mid-calf heightsShaft height: 15.9 inches | Weight per shoe: 2.75 pounds | Material: Neoprene, rubberSpring and fall can be chilly in the garden, so these are great boots for doing chores in cool or wet-weather months, such as planting bulbs or raking leaves. The calf is wide (but not sloppy looking), so it’s easy to get these boots off and on. I’ve used mine for about five seasons now — even wearing them for the occasional snow-shoveling job and they still look new. While they’re a little toasty for summer days, they’re comfortable for the rest of the gardening year so your toes won’t freeze on cold days. 4Best Light Duty Garden BootsDuluth Trading Women’s Pattern Rain BootsNow 25% OffCredit: Duluth TradingProsSolid lug sole for good tractionThick rubber to protect toesRoomy and easy to pull on and offConsA little less flexible shaft than other choicesShaft height: 11.5 inches | Weight per shoe: 1.6 pounds | Material: RubberDuluth gets my vote for many of its garden-related products because they’re thoughtfully designed. These rain boots have a great lug sole, which prevents me from sliding around in the garden. With a sturdy, solid heel for digging chores, they’re designed so that you can put your foot on the garden spade without it slipping off.I love the cheerful pattern of these boots, which also make them cute enough to wear into town on wet days. They’re also reasonably priced. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below5Best SplurgeLe Chameau Giverny Jersey Lined BottillonCredit: Le ChameauProsLong-lastingSoft, flexible, comfortable rubberGood support but room for orthoticsConsPriceyShaft height: 11.5 inches | Weight per shoe: 1.4 pounds | Material: RubberThis legendary brand, which has been making rubber boots since 1927, is beautifully handmade and long-lasting. It’s impervious to rain and molds well to your foot. It’s roomy enough to slide in and out of without a struggle, which is one of the reasons I prefer the mid-calf style. I also like that these are flexible, comfortable, and roomy without being too loose. They don’t have a ton of support on their own, but I can slip my orthotics into them if I will be doing a lot of walking. Of course, they’re also cute enough for rainy afternoons in the city. Arricca Elin SanSone is a writer, editor, and content creator who specializes in lifestyle and gardening. With a background in health reporting, she applies these same research skills when writing about the science of growing things. She trials new plants in her expansive garden, and her houseplant collection consists of 60+ varieties. Arricca has written thousands of articles for publications such as Country Living, House Beautiful, Good Housekeeping, Prevention, VERANDA, Southern Living, and more. She’s happiest when digging in the dirt, baking, or spending time with the people and dogs she loves.Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

According to new Zillow research, olive green kitchens can significantly boost a home’s sale price.Potential buyers look for navy blue walls in the bedroom and dark grays in the living room.Zillow’s home trends expert explains the popularity of these colors in 2025. By now, it’s no surprise that all-white walls are on the outs and bolder, more nature-inspired neutrals are comfortably settling into homes everywhere. As a result, more and more homeowners and potential buyers are beginning to view those more lively yet natural colors as the new “modern” look.According to Zillow’s latest research, there are a few colors that can boost a home’s resale value, and they all play into the organic modernism trend that’s taking over interior design.Related StoryIn the kitchen, prospective home buyers are willing to offer over $1,500 more for olive green cabinets. In the bedroom, buyers are after navy blue walls, which can increase a home’s sale price by around $1,800.“Buyers view olive green and navy blue as contemporary colors, and that can have a halo effect on their perception of the entire home,” says Amanda Pendleton, Zillow’s home trends expert. “These shades of blue and green are associated with organic modernism, a value-driving aesthetic that incorporates sustainable materials like wood and stone. These nature-inspired colors evoke the same feelings of serenity and tranquility.” JZhuk//Getty ImagesIn the bathroom, browns like Pantone’s 2025 Color of the Year, Mocha Mousse, are gaining popularity for their warmer tone. Sophisticated and lush yet still familiar, browns are becoming a go-to neutral for homeowners looking to get a bit more creative without going too colorful. And while whites may be less popular these days, dark grays are still in, especially in the living room. These stone-inspired tones remain a go-to living room shade, boosting home value by nearly $2,600.Now that you know what colors do sell, beware of which do not. As much as you should always embrace your personality through your home decor, Zillow’s study suggests playful, trendy colors might not be the way to go if you’re prepping to put your house on the market any time soon. Bright yellow kitchens and bright red bedrooms actually have the potential to shrink resale value by $3,915 and $1,987, respectively. With that in mind, paint accordingly!More 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