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Ask any interior designer and they’ll tell you that a rug can make or break a room. Not only does a rug help protect your flooring — it also adds warmth and personality to a space. Whether your interior design style is traditional, modern, coastal or eclectic, you can have fun with various textures, color palettes and pile heights. Rugs can easily elevate a kitchen, living room, dining room, you name it. Considering that there are so many rug styles out there, we couldn’t help but to reach out to some interior designers to find out what’s popular right now. Here, design pros share the top rug trend styles for 2025. Round RugsSAFAVIEH Madison Collection Round Teal RugWhen it comes to rugs, rectangular and square might be the first shapes that come to mind, but Barry Bordelon and Jordan Slocum, The Brownstone Boys, say there’s a trending pick that’s worth considering: round rugs. The designers, who recently launched a rug collection with NuStory, prefer pairing round rugs with curved furniture or centered under a statement light fixture. “They work beautifully in entryways, bedrooms or under small dining tables, anywhere you want to soften a space or create a moment,” says Bordelon. Vintage RugsGo for a vintage rug to give a room a more lived-in feel, says designer Sandy Yen of Yen Collective. “They pull in a mix of colors in a really subtle, easy way,” says Yen, who prefers a slightly distressed look. She recommends sticking to a palette of blues or leaning into earth tones (Yen likes warm terracottas, olive shades and sandy neutrals) for just about any room. “They add instant character without feeling too bold or overly trendy,” she explains.Kate Hartman of Kate Hartman Interiors also loves outfitting interiors with vintage rugs. Her favorite way? Using them with modern furnishings. “The juxtaposition of old and new creates a balance that makes a home feel grounded and fresh all at the same time,” Hartman says. Turkish Vintage RugHand-Loomed Dhurrie RugsAccording to designer Erika Hollinshead Ward, reversible hand-loomed dhurrie rugs, which are flat-woven or textile and traditionally made in India and the surrounding regions, are making a comeback, too. “Their ability to complement both classic and contemporary interiors makes them incredibly versatile,” Hollinshead Ward says. “Plus, the reversible design enhances durability and offers homeowners a smart, sustainable investment in style.” What’s more, since they’re a tight weave, people tend to find them easier to clean. Annie Selke Ojai Hand Loom Knotted Cotton RugThis loom knotted cotton beauty features a geometric diamond pattern with multi tonal textural stitches executed in two colors, creating an intriguingly hypnotic effect on this contemporary rug. Handwoven in India, this is a compelling composition for the modern interior.WashableIf you live with kids and pets, washable rugs might be best for you and there’s no shortage of options. They’re ideal for the most frequently used areas in a home and these days, it’s easy to find designs that hold up well in the washing machine (no costly professional cleaning needed). “Washable rugs are a no-brainer in certain spaces, especially high-traffic zones like mudrooms, kitchens and entryways where life can get messy,” says Kate Pinney of Inside Stories. “These are the areas where durability matters just as much as style, and washable rugs let us have both. They allow us to layer in color, texture and pattern without the stress of muddy boots, spilled wine or whatever else the day brings. It’s a practical solution that still feels polished and brings style you don’t have to tiptoe around.”RUGGABLE Sarrah Washable RugSwedish RugsEqual parts timeless and trendy, Swedish rugs are another designer favorite, says Sophoe Selden Kelly of Context Design Studio. “Their sturdy woolen texture feels grounding and comforting underfoot – substantial without being precious. With geometric patterns that are both playful and refined, these rugs bring a fresh energy to a space without ever feeling loud or overworked. They add just the right amount of personality, proving classic design doesn’t have to take itself too seriously.” Flatweave Swedish RugCut-Out / Negative Space Rugs Not a fan of traditional design choices? Designer Samantha Gallacher of design firm IG Workshop appreciates the appeal of cut-out or negative space rugs. “They’re designed with intentional voids or cut-out sections that expose the floor beneath,” says Gallacher, who is also the founder of Art + Loom, a rug retailer. “These rugs add a sculptural, almost installation-like element to a room.”Gallacher recommends the rug style for minimalist interiors, “emphasizing shape and form over pattern” as well as designs featuring repeated patterns like wave motifs or circles. They can also add character to homes featuring hardwood, stone or terrazzo floors, she says, where “the rug becomes a frame rather than full coverage.” Living Arts India Cut Out Abstract RugStatement StylesWhile there’s always room for subdued rug designs, designers are also embracing daring patterned styles that immediately draw the eye. “For a long time, rug design leaned heavily into neutrals—think sisal or jute with very little color, says designer Cortney Bishop. “But now we’re seeing a real shift toward bold, statement-making pieces. Rich, vibrant hues and larger-scale patterns are taking center stage, especially in expansive spaces like living and family rooms.”Bishop usually prefers to let a statement rug dictate a design scheme. “I often start with the rug and build the rest of the room around it—from fabrics to finishes—because a great rug can ground the entire design,” she explains, noting her preference for wool and silk blends. “The way the fibers play off each other not only elevates the color saturation but also adds a beautiful sense of depth and luxury underfoot. These are all elements I took into consideration when designing my own collection, which will be launching this fall.”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

Even if you’re lucky enough to have central AC, prolonged summer heat waves have a hot-box effect on homes. As the heat builds, it never seems to get cool enough, even with the system on full blast. That’s why when temperatures push above 90 ° F, with humidity creating real-feel temps in the triple digits, I do everything possible to keep as much heat as possible out of my home. There are three rules in particular that my family follows to get us through the sweltering heat at home. Keep the curtains closed — all day, every day. About three quarters of the sunlight that falls onto windows enters the home as heat, according to the U.S. Energy Department. Keeping blinds and curtains closed from sun up to sun down will reduce that heat gain, meaning your AC won’t have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature. If you’re in renovation mode, think about installing new windows with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings that reflect heat while still letting through light. Exterior awnings are another smart investment, since they can reduce solar heat gain by as much as 77%.Break out the fans. The breeze creates a wind chill effect that will let you turn the AC up by 5 to 10 degrees without compromising on comfort. Ceiling fans are the best option, since they circulate air throughout the room. Remember to set the fan so that the blades are spinning counterclockwise to create maximum breeze. Floor and pedestal fans also do a fine job circulating air throughout the room. In our latest roundup of best fans, those that feature multiple speeds and oscillation were especially effective. Editor’s note: It’s important to remember that in extreme heat, using a fan isn’t enough to protect you from heat-related illnesses. If you don’t have an A.C., make sure you’re seeking out air conditioning whenever possible at public spaces, such as libraries or cooling centers, and increase your water intake to stay hydrated. If possible, fire up the grill. A heat wave is no time for indoor cooking appliances, namely the oven and cooktop, both of which will heat up your kitchen and surrounding parts of the home. I love grilling with the family once the sun goes down and the worst of the heat is behind us. No grill? Turn to air fryers, toaster ovens and other countertop appliance that won’t radiate nearly as much heat throughout your home as large cooking appliances.More ways to stay safeAccording to the Center of Disease Control and Prevention, here are some other recommended tips to stay safe during extreme heat:Stay in an air-conditioned location as much as possible Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids Avoid outdoor activities if possibleWear lightweight clothing and sunscreenTake cool showers or baths.Related StoriesHaving written thousands of product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations, Dan (he/him) brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his role as the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. A one-time roofer and a serial remodeler, Dan can often be found keeping house at his restored Brooklyn brownstone, where he lives with his wife and kids. More

Luxurious kitchen fixtures might be beautiful, but many fail to live up to homeowners’ expectations. One prime example? Pot fillers. Often a symbol of high-end kitchens, pot fillers may look desirable on social media, but surprisingly, designers say their clients never actually use them. When I asked 17 interior designers about the most overrated home features, nearly half of them said the popular design choice tops the list. Pot fillers are installed on the wall above the stove. The intent is to easily fill pots with water while cooking and eliminate the need to carry them from the sink to the stove. In reality, designers tend to discourage clients from installing them, citing the only real appeal is aesthetics. Related Stories”The top needless renovation item on my list is the pot filler,” says Nancy Davilman, principal designer of ND Interiors. “Rarely is a kitchen so large that carrying a pot of water from the sink to the stove causes any real strain. I feel they’re a complete waste of money — and more importantly, they disrupt the design of the backsplash.” “Pot fillers are the poster child for kitchen features that look impressive but rarely earn their keep,” agrees Olivia Botri, principal designer of Dart Studio. “They’re often installed for aesthetic impact, yet most home cooks still fill pots at the sink — where they also drain them.”Another point of concern is the additional plumbing, which often requires drilling into the kitchen’s backsplash. Pot fillers can also be expensive to install and a headache to maintain. “Add in the cost of plumbing a water line into a backsplash, plus the risk of leaks, and the payoff just isn’t there,” says Botri. According to data from Angi, installing a pot filler costs $1,650 on average, but it can be $3,000 or more if new pipes are needed. Jumping Rocks/UIG//Getty Images”They sound convenient, but the truth is — you still have to carry the pot back to the sink to drain it,” says Michelle Murphy of DEMI RYAN. “I always ask: Is it worth the cost and potential maintenance for a feature that solves half a problem?”Despite the cons, pot fillers can look stunning and luxurious in modern kitchens. If aesthetics are top of mind, you might still decide to invest in this popular home feature. However, it also pays to consider other kitchen design upgrades that are worth the investment. Go for features that improve your cooking routine and boost your home’s value. Remember that your home should be customized to fit your preferences and lifestyle — beautiful kitchen design is never one size fits all. More Expert Design 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

It’s always a thrill when a talented artist lands a Las Vegas residency, and it’s finally Kelly Clarkson’s time. Not only has the star’s show just kicked off at Caesars Palace, but she’s giving fans another reason to celebrate — she has a new home collection with Wayfair.The Kelly Clarkson Home x Vegas line includes 37 standout pieces, all selected by Kelly with the intention of adding personality to any living room. It’s her way of giving decor lovers a chance to bring some of her unique stage setups into their own home. What’s more, it showcases her love of ’70s style with rich wood tones, velvet, rattan and more. This latest launch is also a fun departure from her last Wayfair collection, which was inspired by her rustic Montana home. “The whole idea is studio sessions—I wanted to recreate the vibe of when we go in and record,” Kelly said in a statement. “We worked with Wayfair to bring that vision to life with some of my favorite pieces—cool, chic, and comfortable. It’s all my worlds colliding in one place.”When it comes to rugs, you can take your pick of everything from a faux cow hide design to florals to geometric prints. There are striking barrel chairs and a luxe velvet sofa available in a few chic colors, including one that happens to be a top pick for Kelly: “That green couch is one of my favorites—green is my favorite color, and I love her. She’s real cute!”If you’re in the market for storage, shop the black sideboard with gold cane doors, the rattan accent cabinet or a pair of contemporary cabinets with adjustable shelves. Plus, there’s a small selection of decor accents, including throw pillows, lighting and a scented candle, if your space is in need of a quick refresh. The best way to describe the home line, according to Clarkson? “It’s a homey vibe.”Shop the Kelly Clarkson Home x Vegas CollectionRelated 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

Don’t overlook your closet when you’re decluttering. Are there pieces you didn’t wear last summer? Is there an item you just don’t love anymore? “If it didn’t make it out of your closet last summer, there is a high chance it probably doesn’t reflect your current style,” Jones says. She recommends creating a Pinterest board just for your summer style. That way, you have a clear vision of what doesn’t fit so you can easily declutter. Violetta Elezovic, founder of VS Organized Interiors, also suggests evaluating your summer wardrobe every year: “Go through your summer clothes and shoes that are worn out or no longer useful. In general, you can create more space in your wardrobe and keep a better eye on what you already have when things aren’t so cluttered.”And remember, many organizations will take gently worn summer clothing, including dresses and shorts. RELATED: Declutter Your Closet in Just a Day With These Hacks From Pro Organizers More

There can be a lot of pressure at the start of a kitchen renovation. It’s a space that carries a lot of weight financially and emotionally—after all, it’s where you’ll cook holiday meals and gather with loved ones—so making decisions on the outset of a renovation can be tough. It doesn’t help that we seem to be in the midst of a design shift, too. “It feels like the pendulum has really swung to extremes on kitchen colors over the past few years, from a desire for either all-white kitchens or a strong, multi-tone aesthetic,” says designer Heather Peterson. Related StoryIf you’re having trouble choosing between a subdued palette or a more colorful one, perhaps the best of both worlds can be found in the “cashmere kitchen” trend. “Cashmere kitchens are less stark than all-white, while remaining a bit more classic and timeless than strong colors,” continues Peterson. “People want to feel good, but they also want longevity. What’s more luxurious than knowing you made choices you won’t need to reconsider—maybe ever?” A “cashmere kitchen” has the soft quality of its namesake, enveloping kitchens in the type of elegance that still feels approachable. That seems like the type of kitchen anyone would want to spend time in, which is why four designers are on hand to share how to approach this trend in your home. Read on to get their tips. Design: Oho Interiors; Photo: Judith MarilynWhat Is a Cashmere Kitchen?A cashmere kitchen resembles a color palette that’s almost akin to a morning latte: It’s earthy, slightly pigmented, but still neutral enough to be flexible. Designer and content creator Anne Sage describes this design as the ideal middle ground for renovators. “It provides the inviting vibes of today’s darker, moodier decor trends, while still feeling light and airy,” she says. Sage recently completed two different kitchens that fit this trend, and used two shades to make that happen: Shady by Dunn-Edwards and Cappuccino Froth by Behr. “Both work for a cashmere kitchen because they’ve got more presence than white or cream, but feel equally fresh and cozy,” Sage notes. Melissa Oholendt of Oho Interiors also has two colors to offer. “I love Farrow & Ball Shaded White or Pointing for those who prefer something like a cozy white,” she notes. “If you prefer a more mushroom tone, Benjamin Moore’s Stone Hearth is a proven winner!” And lastly, designer ​​Jessica Nicastro suggests Portola Paints in Kinfolk for a richer off-white. These soft colors create a calm backdrop, so it’s more likely that you can picture the same space feeling just as soothing now and in the future. Oholendt shares that this palette is easier to clean and can feel less stark than a white kitchen, while Nicastro appreciates its versatility. So it’s no surprise that all four designers think cashmere kitchens have staying power. “While this trend has a new name and is having a moment, the aesthetic will still feel relevant in 10 or 20 years,” Sage says. Design: Oho Interiors; Photo: Judith MarilynHow to Complete a Cashmere Kitchen Once you have the color palette down, the details of a cashmere kitchen are equally comforting. Here’s how designers would handle the rest: Choose unlacquered brass finishes. To add character and a bit of shine to a cashmere kitchen, unlacquered brass was recommended by multiple designers for sheen that won’t go out of style. “We love a great unlacquered brass kitchen bridge faucet, hardware and light fixtures that will age and patina to help balance the softness of a cashmere kitchen,” Oholendt says.Opt for stained cabinetry. A cashmere kitchen is all about a soft approach, which is why Sage suggests using stained white oak cabinets to complement the feel of the palette while adding some dimension. “We opted for integrated wood handles on the cabinetry, rather than choosing metal drawer and cabinet hardware,” she says. “One hallmark of the cashmere kitchen is that it may appear simple at first glance, but it’s actually quite layered—just like a thoughtfully composed outfit featuring a cashmere sweater might be.”Consider Delft tiles. Sage recommends using a matte backsplash in an earthy shade to stay on trend, but Oholendt’s tip is more specific. “We have a few cashmere kitchens in the construction phase, and one of the design elements I am most excited to see come to life is a classic Delft tile backsplash with Farrow & Ball Shaded White cabinetry,” she says. “It will be a design moment, I just know it!”Pick a punchy countertop. You should stay neutral while searching for a countertop for your cashmere kitchen, but make sure that it still has personality. “We used Taj Mahal quartzite in our recent renovation, and the swirls of brown, gray and cream beautifully complemented our cabinets,” Sage says. The results will be a kitchen that’ll keep you warm now and later.More Kitchen Design AdviceKelly Dawson is a writer, editor and marketing consultant. Her work has appeared in the New York Times, Architectural Digest, Travel + Leisure and other publications.  More

My wife and I agree on most things, but the right temperature setting for our home’s central AC isn’t one of them. I like the thermostat pinned at 76° F all summer long — maybe because I grew up in an old, drafty house with only a whole-house fan that sounded like a jet engine in the attic.Some days I come home and it’s a frigid 68° F. “What are we made of money!” I bark, as my wife and kids all look the other way (I’m never quite sure who the guilty party is). I’ve had other family and friends balk at my temperature preferences. That’s okay, I have the U.S. Department of Energy in my corner. In fact, the Energy Star website advises setting the thermostat all the way at 78° F during the summer months. Whoa! Come winter, a similar temperature war plays out in my home. If I had my druthers, I’d keep the heat off until we start seeing our breath in the morning. But if the heat must be on, I don’t want to see it a tick over 68° F. Whenever my family gripes, I remind them that this same temperature wasn’t too cold for them in the summer, now was it? Of course, I always end up relenting. Marriage and family life are all about compromise, right? In my home, that means keeping the temperature right around 72° F throughout the year. The good thing is, through my decades as a home expert, I’ve picked up a lot of good strategies for relying less on central air conditioning and heating, without torturing your loved ones in the process.If you haven’t upgraded to a smart thermostat yet, that’s step number one. The device will automatically adjust your home’s temperature when you’re asleep or away, reducing your annual energy bills by 10 percent or more. From there, keep the following seasonal tips in mind. ecobee SmartThermostat with Voice Control Now 12% OffCredit: ecobee Google Nest Learning ThermostatNow 28% OffCredit: Google Nest Bosch Smart ThermostatCredit: Bosch Summer Cooling Tips✔️ Block out the sun. About three quarters of sunlight that falls onto windows enters the home as heat, according to the U.S. Energy Department. Drawing blinds and curtains during the day will keep the home cooler, so you won’t have to rely as much on the AC.✔️ Turn on the fans. The wind chill effect will allow you to turn the AC up by 5 to 10 degrees while keeping comfortable during extreme heat. Ceiling fans are the best option, since they circulate air throughout the room. Remember to set the fan so that the blades are spinning counterclockwise to create maximum breeze.✔️ Keep the AC running. Many homeowners make the mistake of turning the AC on and off to save money. It’s better to keep the system running, although at a higher temperature, especially during the overnight hours or when you’re away from home. What temperature do you set your AC to during the summer? Let us know in the comment box below! Having written thousands of product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations, Dan (he/him) brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his role as the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. A one-time roofer and a serial remodeler, Dan can often be found keeping house at his restored Brooklyn brownstone, where he lives with his wife and kids. More