Home Ideas

Steam cleaners may sound like a dream: no chemicals, just heat and water, and poof — grime gone. But if you’ve been using one on your hardwood or laminate floors, listen up. Even if your machine’s manual claims it’s safe to use on these surfaces, the cleaning pros in the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab say otherwise.“While manufacturers say that steamers are safe to use on sealed hardwood — and they may be — most floors in homes are not perfectly or completely sealed,” said Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Home Care & Cleaning Lab. “They’re walked on by people and pets, so the finishes likely have fine scratches and worn spots, which makes steam, pressure and moisture more likely to penetrate.” The result? Warping, dulling and even voided warranties.The convenience just isn’t worth the potential cost. Instead, the best way to maintain the look and feel of your wood floors is to treat them with some TLC: leave shoes at the door, clean up spills promptly, keep pet nails trimmed and vacuum regularly using a suction-only vacuum or one with the brush roller turned off to prevent scratches.When it’s time for a deeper clean, use a light application of a hardwood floor cleaner and work in small 3-foot-square sections to avoid over-wetting the surface. Wipe in the direction of the wood planks for quick touch-ups, and go with and against the grain for a more thorough clean that lifts dirt from crevices.But don’t overdo it. The GH Cleaning Lab recommends damp-cleaning floors only when they truly need it, since over-washing can do more harm than good. And skip the DIY hacks — vinegar is acidic and can dull the finish over time. Abrasive cleaners, waxes, oils, furniture sprays and anything containing ammonia can also damage both the finish and the floor itself.More from our Cleaning LabBrigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.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

Cleaning according to Japanese Zen Buddhist principles can transform the act from a chore into a mindful practice. I tried cleaning the “zen way,” focusing on appreciating my surroundings rather than the outcome. Learn more about how to transform your cleaning mindset with tips and tricks from experts.As a home editor, I’ve put a variety of organization hacks and cleaning methods to the test, deciding which are helpful and which might cause more stress than it’s worth. From rage cleaning to gradual decluttering to electric cleaning tools, I can confidently say that when it comes to making cleaning less dreadful, I’ve tried it all. Still, regardless of the number of high-tech tools or expert-approved methods out there, there’s one thing that remains true: If you view cleaning as a chore, you will probably always dislike it. But there are certain cultures that view cleaning completely differently. Take “Städdag” for example, a Swedish cleaning method that suggests neighbors gather together to clean, treating it as a social activity to look forward to. In Japanese culture, Zen Buddhist principles influence the cleaning process. It’s not just about the outcome, it’s about expressing appreciation for your surroundings and clearing your mind of any unwelcome thoughts. Intrigued by the idea of mindful cleaning, I decided to dig a little deeper, interviewing our Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab experts along with a few pros familiar with the concept. Related StoriesWhat Is Zen-Inspired Cleaning?There’s a common Japanese adage: When you see a weed, pull it.”This reflects the fact that cleaning can be very straightforward and not a chore. It’s just something you do without drama or a second thought, like brushing your teeth or going to the bathroom. No energy is wasted, which means it can, instead, be put to the things that actually matter, like loving our neighbors as we love ourselves,” says Cristina Moon, Zen priest and author of Three Years on the Great Mountain: A Memoir of Zen and Fearlessness.Rather then planning a whole day of cleaning (and dreading it the moment it arrives), the idea is to treat the act as an everyday activity. There’s no need to schedule in hours and hours — if you see something is out of place or dirty, handle it right then and there. It’s all about being in the moment and embracing the act itself. “When most people clean, their minds are focused on the end result. Their goal is to finish as quickly as possible and reach a state of cleanliness. However, in Zen Buddhism and as part of ancient Japanese life philosophy, cleaning is not just about the outcome. It is a mindful practice, a way to show respect and appreciation for our environment, to purify the mind and to clear away the ‘dust’ of unnecessary thoughts and desires that block the natural flow of life energy,” says Azumi Uchitani, founder of The Japanese Wisdom Academy and author of the upcoming book Yoshuku — The Japanese Art of Manifesting.My Experience Instead of turning on the TV or blasting my favorite playlist like I typically would before lugging out all my cleaning supplies, I decided to embrace the silence. To get started, I kept it simple, using a cloth and some cleaning spray in the kitchen and bathroom. Laura MillarI take pride in my home — a cluttered cabinet or overflowing garbage can definitely affect my mood and even stress me out. Keeping in mind what I learned about Zen Buddhist principles, I tried to focus on my space and how it made me feel before, during and after cleaning. Rather than ignoring my own thoughts and distracting myself with a playlist or TV show, I actually began to acknowledge those feelings.The actual act of cleaning became much more enjoyable when I wasn’t thinking about all the other things I could be doing instead. In that moment, I concentrated on spraying and wiping the surfaces in my home. And it didn’t feel that dreadful. While there’s a lot more work to be done to truly master cleaning the “Zen way,” I did feel more connected with my space after my first session. The whole process felt more personal — I was cleaning not only so I could admire a squeaky clean bathroom or shiny stovetop, but for my own mental wellbeing. Tips for Cleaning the “Zen Way”The philosophy behind cleaning according to Zen Buddhist principles is simple: “Looking at cleaning as an act of care rather than a chore helps you see the beauty in your home and its furnishings. And when you take care of and take pride in your home and furnishings, things and surfaces last longer and look better,” says GH Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab Executive Director Carolyn Forté.Here are few tips to keep in mind if you’re new to Zen-inspired cleaning: Carlos Barquero//Getty ImagesExpress gratitude: Appreciate your space as you clean it. That means turning off any background distractions. Harmonize your body and mind: “Treat cleaning as a combined practice of meditation and fitness. As a bonus, your space becomes clean,” says Uchitani. Stay present: You don’t need to plan a whole day of cleaning. If something is out of order, fix it.Choose your tools wisely: “Select cleaning tools you enjoy using and take care of them as well. Clean tools reflect the care you bring to your practice,” says Uchitani. 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.  More

Whether it’s a splash of salad dressing from a rushed lunch, a toddler’s grass stains or a drip of blood you didn’t notice until it dried, stains happen. And while your instinct might be to act fast — scrub, rinse, repeat — not every quick fix is actually helpful. In fact, some of the most common stain-removal habits can spread the stain or even set it, making it harder to treat later.Below are the most avoidable mistakes, according to Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab pros, plus how to handle stubborn spots in a way that actually works.1. Waiting too long to treat it.Life is busy, and sometimes you don’t notice a stain until a few days (and maybe even a couple of washes) later, but timing matters. The longer a stain sits, the deeper it sets — and the harder it becomes to remove. Your best bet is to tackle spots as soon as possible, ideally before they’ve had a chance to dry, even if it means pausing your day for a quick rescue mission.2. Always using hot water. Hot water isn’t a one-size-fits-all fix. It can set certain stains — especially protein-based ones like blood. On the flip side, grease stains often respond better to hot water. So don’t just default to high heat; check what kind of stain you’re dealing with before turning on the tap.3. Using the harshest treatment first. When it comes to stain removal, the most aggressive method isn’t always the most effective. It’s smarter to start with a gentler approach — like pre-soaking or pre-treating — before jumping to bleach or other harsh stain removers. This not only protects your fabric from wear and tear, but also leaves room to try something stronger if the first round doesn’t work.4. Rubbing instead of blotting. It’s tempting to scrub at a stain. The harder you work, the better the results, right? Not quite. All of that friction can push the stain deeper into the fabric’s fibers and even wear down the item prematurely. Blotting gently is usually more effective — and far less damaging.5. Blotting with a colored napkin.Don’t just grab the closest cloth and go, either. A brightly colored or patterned napkin can bleed dye onto your fabric, leaving you with two stains instead of one. Stick with a plain white cloth or paper towel when possible.Kinga Krzeminska//Getty Images6. Starting from the center of the stain.It may seem intuitive to target the middle of the stain first, but doing so can cause it to spread. Instead, work from the outside in, using dabbing motions, to help contain the mess. 7. Forgetting to put something absorbent underneath. When treating a stain, always place a clean cloth or paper towel underneath the fabric. This helps draw the spot out from below and prevents it from seeping into other areas — or even staining the surface beneath your item.Ana Rocio Garcia Franco//Getty Images8. Tossing your item in the dryer before the stain is gone. Heat locks in stains, making them much harder (and sometimes impossible) to remove later. If you dry something before the stain is fully out, you risk sealing it in — for good. Always check the spot after washing. If it’s still there, pretreat and rewash before adding heat to the mix.More from our Cleaning LabBrigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more. More

One of designer Steven Cooper’s favorite ways to give a kitchen a high-end feel? A dairy table! “A dairy table is a beautifully crafted, stand-alone piece inspired by traditional farmhouse dairies, offering both charm and practicality,” says Cooper, the principal designer at Cooper Pacific. The budget-friendly option can be used to serve guests buffet-style, prep meals or enjoy a cozy breakfast, Cooper adds. “You can find a suitable base by repurposing a vintage table, console or dresser from thrift stores, flea markets or online marketplaces,” he says. “To transform it, give it a rich stain and add lower shelves for baskets and storage. When sourcing countertop materials for your dairy table, consider visiting your local stone fabricator for remnant pieces of marble or quartzite, which can be cut to fit your table’s dimensions at a fraction of the cost of a full slab.” Photo by: Meghan Beierle-O’Brien More

You know to turn off the lights and lock the doors before leaving for vacation. But there’s another item on the pre-departure checklist that many people forget — unplugging electronic devices to reduce the risk of fire. Even if these electronics don’t cause a home blaze, many of them draw power when they’re not in use (“standby power” is the industry term), which means you’re losing money by leaving them plugged in. While the best policy is to unplug every electronic device in the home before you go, some are more dangerous or power-hungry than others. Our pros in the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute teamed up with safety and energy efficiency experts to compile the following must-unplug list.Battery chargersDan DiClerico / Good HousekeepingOver the last decade, lithium-ion batteries have become ubiquitous in homes, running everything from e-bikes to power tools to personal computers. The batteries are great at storing a lot of energy in a small housing, but that means they can be quick to overheat if damaged or left on a charger for too long. Even charging lithium-ion batteries overnight is a no-no, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), since batteries should be removed from the charger once they’re fully charged, to prevent overheating. Under no circumstances should a charger and battery be left plugged in when you’re away from home. NFPA also recommends storing batteries at room temperature and away from anything that can catch fire.It’s a good idea to unplug smaller charging cords, like those for your phone or computer. While the heat they generate doesn’t pose the same fire hazard, even the low current of electricity that flows continuously to them when they’re plugged in can put added stress on internal parts, leading to premature failure. Space heatersDan DiClerico / Good HousekeepingHeating equipment is a leading cause of home fires, causing close to 40,000 blazes every year, according to NFPA. Space heaters are a major culprit, so it’s crucial to unplug them anytime they’re not in use. “Appliances that produce heat that are left plugged in and do not have an automatic shutoff means pose a hazard risk,” said Corey Hannahs, Senior Electrical Content Specialist at NFPA.Countertop appliances Dan DiClerico / Good HousekeepingMany of these small electronics, including toasters, toaster ovens and electric kettles, also generate high temperatures, which means their heating elements could receive a surge of power during an electrical fault or other malfunction in your home’s wiring. What’s more, crumbs, oil residues and other combustible substances inside the devices make them susceptible to spontaneous ignition.Home entertainment systems Dan DiClerico / Good HousekeepingStandby power accounts for 5 to 10% of a home’s total electricity usage, according to research by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Home entertainment devices are some of the biggest culprits. That includes video game consoles, since the latest versions have features like voice control, gesture recognition and wireless controllers that draw power even when they’re not in use.It’s a good idea to activate any power saving settings, for example Xbox’s “energy saving mode” or Play Station’s “rest mode.” But when you’re leaving town, go the extra distance by unplugging the consoles completely. Our experts recommend using a power strip with surge protection for all your home entertainment equipment (consoles, TVs, monitors, etc.) so you can power everything off at once, and also protect against sudden spikes in voltage, whether from a lighting strike or faulty wiring.Hairstyling tools Dan DiClerico / Good HousekeepingIf you own a curling iron or curling wand, chances are you’ve left it on at least once in your life. That’s why it’s a best practice to unplug these tools after every use. We also recommend unplugging hair dryers, since faulty cords could lead to a fire risk.Because hairstyling tools are typically used in the bathroom, it’s worth noting the importance of GFCI outlets in these locations (along with the kitchen). Short for ground-fault circuit-interrupters, GFCIs help prevent fires and electric shock by cutting off electricity to damaged equipment, for example a frayed cord or overheated motor. MORE WAYS TO STAY SAFEHaving 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

Designers always pour creative energy into the main rooms in a home — think kitchens, living rooms and bedrooms where thoughtful decor has the power to transform their look and feel. Everyone can agree that it’s worth investing in quality furniture and decor for these key rooms, but what unexpected spaces are surprisingly just as important in home design? As a home editor, I wanted to know the top space people tend to neglect — but shouldn’t, so I asked 15 interior designers the question. Shockingly, 10 design experts had the same exact answer: The hallway is a space that should NEVER be overlooked when designing a home. What’s Trending in Home DesignThe hallway is often seen as a pass-through space, but it holds a ton of untapped potential. Use the high-traffic area to showcase a gallery wall, create a moment for sculptural lighting or experiment with playful wallpaper. “Think of it as connective tissue — not just between rooms, but between design ideas,” says Kelsey Matyas, founder of Kelsey Deirdre Designs. “Passage corridors, especially those that connect two key spaces of a home, should never be overlooked,” says Sarah Beth Wood of Rigby Wood Interior Design. “In new construction, clients are often eager to use the full height of the space in every room but passageways should not be cavernous — taking the time during construction to add architectural millwork, faceted lighting and a wallcovering can transform a basic hallway into a special journey as you travel to and from the living quarters within the home.”Often, homeowners underestimate the design and architecture opportunities in a hallway. Instead, they paint the walls a neutral shade and leave them bare. They often fail to properly light the area, deciding it’s not worth the trouble to replace fixtures in a transition space. Anice HoachlanderSmall spaces, like the hallway, can make a huge impact and “set the tone for the entire home,” according to Michelle Murphy, founder of Demi Ryan. Decorating the hallway makes a simple passageway feel personal and memorable, while making your entire home feel more inviting and cohesive. “I never forget the small hallways and little nooks that you may walk by and not even notice as space that is available for decorating — but these areas are the places that make you stop and look again,” adds Yena Jung of By Yena Designs.Your Hallway Could Make a Bold Statement — Here’s How ✔️ Lighting Install playful lighting overhead — think matching pendants or flush mounts — or line the wall with decorative sconces to illuminate a long corridor.” In the hallway, especially longer hallways, there is an opportunity to make a statement through repetition of light fixtures,” says Kristyn Harvey of Kristyn Harvey Interiors. ✔️ MillworkArchitectural detail like molding or wainscoting can create visual interest in a hallway. “Elevate the millwork details of hallway openings, such as with custom stained wood fretwork, arches or pilasters instead of simple casing,” suggests Ellen Hatton, principal of BVA BarnesVanze Architects. ✔️ Wall treatmentsA bright paint color or funky wallpaper is a guaranteed way to spruce up the hallway. “The wallpaper can go on the ceiling instead of the walls of a hallway, too!” says Jennifer Press of Press Interiors. Wallpaper not your thing? “You can also use textural paint in the hallway (think limewash or venetian plaster) or incorporate a high-gloss finish on the walls or ceiling.”Angie Seckinger✔️ Ceiling designDon’t forget about the “fifth wall” — the ceiling. From architectural elements to paint and wallpaper, a bold ceiling can have a big impact in a small space. “Experiment with bolder ceiling treatments such as a barrel or groin vault, coffering or an eye-catching paint color,” says Hatton.✔️ Mirrors and artworkWhether you display large canvas prints or arrange a gallery wall or mismatched frames, the hallway is a clever place to showcase beautiful art. The right proportion can even make a narrow corridor feel larger. “Something simple like adding a mirror to a corner or an empty wall that has a window can create a space that feels more open, inviting and even larger,” adds Jung. RJ GuillermoTo complement simple white walls, Arterberry Cooke brings in a geometric runner rug, large-scale artwork and greenery at the end of the hall. Photo by: RJ Guillermo✔️ Runner rugNot only does a runner help protect floors from wear and tear, but a vintage style or colorful pattern transforms the vibe. “If you’re leaning towards a bold, maximalist aesthetic for a hallway – incorporate a variety of different prints using rugs, curtains, wall art or even table books,” suggests Taniya Nayak, interior designer and Marshalls and T.J. Maxx home style expert.✔️ Tiny built-insEven in small spaces, hallways can serve a purpose. Imagine a homework area with a built-in desk, a home bar or drop zone in an entry hall. “Even as simple as a niche bookshelf can add character,” says Seth Ballad of DC Ballard & Mensua Architecture.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

There’s no place like home—and there’s also nothing quite like an interior designer who really “gets” you. The designer-client relationship is an important bond that, for Jeffery Osgood and Patrick Richard, spans across multiple years and projects. While the couple hired Krystal Reinhard of Old Soul Design Studio to decorate their former apartment in downtown Philadelphia, they craved more space post-pandemic. So, they purchased a 3,606-square-foot home in Pennsylvania’s West Chester county—and knew exactly who to call to bring their vision to life. ERIC BRINKPatrick Richard and Jeffery Osgood”Krystal didn’t just design our home,” Richard explains. “She helped us discover who we are, in space and style. Our partnership with her is built on deep trust, shared taste and a kind of design telepathy that’s hard to describe.” Reinhard honored the couple’s penchant for contemporary design—she says their old unit was “very Mad Men mid-century”—but infused a little Palm Springs-inspired glamour. “We always say we’re ‘mid-century modern gays,’ and Palm Springs is a design language we speak fluently—even from Pennsylvania,” explains Osgood. “There’s something about the joyful geometry, the confidence in color and the effortless blend of vintage and new that captures our spirit.” The result? A thoughtful mix of textiles, patterns and art that brings out the best of both coasts.The Living AreaDesign: Old Soul Design Studio; Photo: Brian WetzelDesign: Old Soul Design Studio; Photo: Brian WetzelSince the couple moved into a spec home, a turn-key property without customized details or features, Reinhard was tasked with the challenge of making a large great room feel intimate and personal. “As an industry, we’re steering away from these massive open concepts and doing more compartmentalized rooms,” she explains. “I wanted to make sure there was flow and intention: That they could move within the spaces, but felt like each space had its own designated area.” While the coffered ceiling grounds the great room, strategically placed furniture creates the illusion of smaller, cozier spaces. In the living area, a leather couch from CB2, RH’s acrylic upholstered stools and a gilded coffee table from Modern Elements Furniture build a beautiful background for connection and conversation. But the focal point of the space is the graffiti-esque painting from Texan artist Kelly O’Neal. “There’s this very colorful art piece that’s blended with a minimalist, contemporary vibe so it’s still soothing,” she says. “That way, the pops can be enjoyed and spark conversation.” To emphasize the bold artwork—and seal its fate as the anchor of the area—Reinhard painted the wall behind it in Iron Ore by Sherwin-Williams. The Dining SpaceDesign: Old Soul Design Studio; Photo: Brian WetzelThough Reinhard is no stranger to dark, moody colors, the dining area acts as a midpoint between the living space’s black accent wall and the lighter kitchen. Here, upholstered chairs from RH flank a glass-topped, brass-based table from Bernhardt—giving this often-utilitarian space a touch of glamour.Crisp, dramatic neutrals might be at the forefront of this space, but Reinhard brought a softness to the dining area with metal and acrylic stools reupholstered in nature-inspired fabric and a verdant artwork, also by Kelly O’Neal. According to the couple, O’Neal’s works were their first big art investments and set the tone for the home. “It tells people this is a home that values fine design, but doesn’t take itself too seriously,” Richard shares. “A place for laughter, clinking glasses, long conversations, and for chosen family.” The KitchenDesign: Old Soul Design Studio; Photo: Jake DunderdaleNeutral kitchens often get a bad rep for being humdrum, but Reinhard’s interpretation celebrates the beautiful intentionality of the pared-back palette. She swapped out subway tiles for a full-slab Silestone Calacatta backsplash and matching countertops. A trio of black pendants from Visual Comfort hang above a gray island, which offers a welcomed juxtaposition from the white cabinetry.Speaking of the cabinetry, the kitchen is outfitted with hardware in an array of finishes to provide a layered, lived-in feel. “Who wants to walk into [a room] that feels sterile and utilitarian?” asks Reinhard. “It is an intentional thought to bring in those metals so that you do get the sense of warmth. Even though it may be a newly sourced piece, it doesn’t feel that way.” The Primary BedroomDesign: Old Soul Design Studio; Photo: Jake DunderdaleReinhard designed the home to evoke memories from Osgood and Richard’s many travels, but when it came to the primary bedroom, she fixated on building the ultimate staycation spot—one the couple would never want to leave. “I wanted to give them a sexy, moody retreat that felt like a bespoke Airbnb you might have in Europe or downtown New York City,” she explains. Dramatic hues made a comeback in the form of Sherwin-Williams’s Tricom Black, a high-gloss hue that covered the upper part of the room to modernize its tray ceilings. A leather bed frame from RH and Avasa’s custom bedding complement the darker ceiling while offering a refined, tailored finish to the couple’s bed.Similar to the home’s common areas, art played a big role in the boudoir. An oversized piece from Leftbank Art hangs over the bed—creating the illusion of a beefed-up headboard—while a series of metallic “wall vessels” lend a touch of unexpected texture. “It feels like a sculptural art piece,” Reinhard explains. “It was a fun space to play with different genres of design and art: There’s a bit of traditional [design], and then we have those super cool modern light fixtures juxtaposed against a classy crystal chandelier.” The Guest BedroomsDesign: Old Soul Design Studio; Photo: Brian WetzelDesign: Old Soul Design Studio; Photo: Brian Wetzel From accent walls to punchy upholstery, pattern is the clear star of the home’s guest bedrooms. The secret, Reinhard says, lies in the proportions. “There’s a time and a place to go all out, but scale is super important when you’re curating a space,” she explains. Here, opposites attract: A bed frame swathed in Kristine Sarley’s geometric, jade green fabric feels balanced next to the micro-printed curtains. Meanwhile, a high-contrasted Thibaut accent wall is expertly paired with textured solids. The OfficeDesign: Old Soul Design Studio; Photo: Brian Wetzel”We didn’t want to mimic Palm Springs,” Osgood insists. “We wanted to channel it: the sense of welcome, playfulness and light.” Perhaps no room captures the spirit of Palm Springs quite like the office, where an accent wall, featuring wallpaper from York Wallcoverings, takes center stage. In fact, Reinhard says this repeat was love at first sight. “Everybody has a starting point with a space, whether it’s a rug or an art piece,” she says. “For me, it was the paper.” A modern take on Palm Springs style and an excellent Zoom background? Consider us sold. Reinhard rounded out the room with a black desk with woven touches and angular chandelier from Hudson Valley Lighting Group, which she says mimics a palm leaf.The result? Retro, refined and rife with personality. “We like to think of it as a home that throws a wink as much as it offers a hug,” Osgood says. “It’s modern, yes, but not sterile. Nostalgic, but not stuck in time.” Richard agrees: “It’s Palm Springs by way of Pennsylvania, with every detail curated to reflect comfort and joy.”Tour More Inspiring HomesKelsey Mulvey is a freelance lifestyle journalist, who covers shopping and deals for Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, and ELLE Decor, among others. Her hobbies include themed spinning classes, Netflix, and nachos. More

There’s no denying the beauty of dahlias in a garden. Beyond their array of gorgeous hues, gardeners love them for another reason: “They are the lowest-maintenance, highest production plants you can grow, giving 30 buckets of cut flower per square meter within just a few weeks of planting,” says Sarah Raven, a gardening expert and author of A Year Full of Pots. “They also come in all shapes and sizes now, with ones that last well in a vase, ones that are stacked full of pollen and nectar — so good for butterflies and bees.” And the best part? They bloom later in the year “when there’s so much less around to love, look at and enjoy.”But there’s one major mistake some people make when planting dahlias that can impact the flower’s growth. Planting them near “anything that draws in slugs and snails like bean plants,” Raven says. She also recommends keeping them away from delicate plants that grow slowly — think geraniums. “They look good at the same time as dahlias but will be choked by the stinking, vigorous growth of the dahlia family and don’t stand a chance,” she explains. She also notes that if you’re planting “whopper” dahlias, which can grow quite large, avoid placing them next to smaller plants such as Cosmos “Sonata” or “Sensation” series or zinnias “as they will again be overcome.” However, if you’re not going with the whopper variety, Cosmos and zinnias can be a great to grow next to dahlias. If you’re looking for more companion plants, Raven suggests “bold, strong growers like the grains, amaranths and sunflowers, which work aesthetically and feed the birds as their seed ripens. The birds then eat the caterpillars, aphids, slugs and snails and keep the place healthy and clean. It’s a win-win.”neirfy//Getty ImagesRaven also says it’s a good idea to plant spore formers, such as gladioli, next to your dahlias. “Dahlias create undulating round shapes, and you want some vertical spikes to make a great design.” And for next year, remember: “Plant the tubers inside, frost-free in mid-spring, don’t plant them just straight in the ground. Keep them in a cool, light, frost-free place until they’ve grown to a decent size (6-8 inches or so) before planting when the frosts are over out into the garden. Their juicy, soft shoots won’t get devoted by slugs and snails — a huge issue here with dahlias in a cold, wet spring.”More Gardening AdviceMonique 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