Home Ideas

Sometimes, you just don’t have the space you need for a large, lavish garden. But that doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy fresh plants from your yard come spring.Square foot gardens are perfect for smaller yards — you can plant herbs, fruits and vegetables side by side, getting the absolute most out of your space. While there are some rules you should follow when building a square foot garden, they’re relatively simple to manage. “Once established, square foot gardens tend to require less weeding and watering. By planting everything close together, plants will help retain more moisture and crowd out weeds,” says Teri Valenzuela, natural science manager at Sunday.Whether you’ve never heard of square foot gardening or are already in the process of building one, we’ve created an expert guide that’s easy to follow.What Is a Square Foot Garden? Photo by Cathy Scola//Getty ImagesSquare foot gardening was invented by backyard gardener, retired engineer and efficiency expert Mel Bartholomew. Typically set up in a small garden bed divided into 1-foot squares, they make for a neat and efficient backyard kitchen garden. The amount of seeds per square depends on the size of the plant, and you can plant different veggies or herbs in each one. The Pros and Cons of Square Foot GardeningIf you’ve always wanted to grow your own veggies but could never imagine how that would look in your current space, square foot gardening might just be the perfect solution. “The benefit to square foot gardening is really the organization of it all. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by a garden when plants are starting to fill in and really take over a space, but having a proper map laid out before planting will help you know that you’ve allocated a good amount of room so each plant gets the room it needs to thrive,” says gardening pro Brian Brigantti of Red Leaf Ranch. vgajic//Getty ImagesOther benefits include:High yields: More seeds in a smaller space = more veggies to enjoy! It’s that simple. A quick start: Setting up one raised bed is a lot simpler than planning a whole garden. There’s only one grid to focus on, and you can place it anywhere. Less maintenance: Once you’ve arranged your square foot garden, you’ll only have to complete a few tasks per day to keep your plants alive and thriving. However, you’ll want to consider:Expensive set up: Raised beds can be expensive to set up, especially considering the soil you might have to buy. However, if you’re able to stick with the soil you already have on the ground, you could save some money. Cramped beds: Lots of seeds in one place could lead to a cramped garden bed. Be sure to experiment with the amount of seeds you plant and be ready to adapt based on your results. Depth: Some gardeners find that a 6-inch depth doesn’t cut it. If you’re able to go deeper, try a 12-inch base instead so your roots have room to grow. How to Set up a Square Foot GardenBefore you plan out which plants to grow in your square foot garden, it’s important to consider your set up. Make sure to choose a spot that gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day, according to Brigantti.duckycards//Getty Images”Set up a 4×4 foot raised bed, divide it into 1-foot squares and fill it with good-quality raised bed soil. Plan each plant’s grid placement according to its mature size, spacing and sunlight direction. Then, remember to water, feed and weed throughout its establishment period and into the growing season,” says Valenzuela.Related StoryWhen dividing your garden bed into 16 squares, make sure each one is at least six inches deep for the best results. It’s also important to pick the best soil. “The key to good garden soil is to keep it light, well-draining and rich in nutrients. You want to fill your bed very well — I usually leave 2-3 inches off the top to add a layer of mulch. For veggies, I’d recommend straw or hay. Mulch will help retain moisture within your soil,” says Brigantti. Then comes the fun part — planting your favorite fruits and veggies! Before you do that, you’ll want to get a better understanding of all the guidelines and best practices. The Rules of Square Foot Gardening Your square foot gardening cheat code is 1-4-9-16. Here’s what that means:One extra-large plant per 1-foot squareFour large plants per 1-foot squareNine medium plants per 1-foot square 16 small plants per 1-foot squareGetty ImagesSo what types of veggies and herbs are considered extra large and which are considered small? Valenzuela and Brigantti give a few examples of each size. XL: Tomatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, eggplants, cauliflower, cabbageL: Lettuce, Swiss chard, corn, potatoesM: Beets, spinach, carrots, beansS: Chives, radishesTip: It’s worth noting that these are loose suggestions. “Herbs and peppers are usually one plant or two per square. Some prefer one, others prefer two — it’s up to you (and your plant!),” says Valenzuela. Do your research and read over the seed packets before you plant. The success of your square foot garden will also depend on where you place each of these plants within the raised bed.”Plant based on the direction of sunlight and mature plant height. Place taller plants, like tomatoes, toward the back or northern side so they don’t cast shade on the rest, medium-height plants in the middle and smaller or flowering plants at the front and along the edges,” says Valenzuela.What to Plant in a Square Foot GardenWhen deciding what to plant in your square foot garden, consider what fruits, veggies and herbs you and your family enjoy most. Whether you make your own tomato sauce, serve broccoli alongside dinner or simply want to try growing something new, your square foot garden is a great place to start. Here are some expert-recommended choices:Leafy greensEggplantHerbsTomatoesPeppersBeansBroccoliMarigoldsCarrotsCauliflower Onions”The best types of plants for square foot gardening would be the more compact, non-vining plants, as they’ll stay relatively true to their spacing requirements. Vining plants can get unruly very quickly and make it difficult to manage the proper spacing you had in mind with the grid you put in place,” says Brigantti. 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

1Fuchsia (Fuchsia Magellanica)Federica Grassi//Getty ImagesFuchsia isn’t only attractive to the human eye — hummingbirds love these flowers, too! With a bright, tubular shape, fuchsia is the ideal flower type for a hummingbird’s thin beak. Plus, these flowers produce lots of nectar, which is exactly what hummingbirds are on the hunt for throughout the season. Hardiness Zone: Zones 6-9Sunlight: Morning sun, afternoon shadeSHOP FUCHSIA2Cardinal Flower (Lobelia Cardinalis)laroy lindsey//Getty ImagesLike the bird with the same name, cardinal flowers are a gorgeous red, which just happens to be a hummingbird’s favorite color. They’re also not lacking in shape, either. Their tubular flowers allow hummingbirds easy access to their abundant nectar. Hardiness Zone: Zones 3-9Sunlight: Full sun to partial shadeSHOP CARDINAL FLOWERAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below3Foxglove (Digitalis)Kilito Chan//Getty ImagesFoxglove comes in a variety of bright colors that are visually appealing to hummingbirds. Think shades of purple, pink and red. Because their blooms hang open, hummingbirds are easily able to feed off the available nectar using their thin beaks. Hardiness Zone: Zones 4-9Sunlight: Direct sunlight SHOP FOXGLOVE4Columbine (Aquilegia)Katrin Ray ShumakovCertain varieties of columbines bloom in multiple colors. Their contrasting shades are attractive, especially to pollinators like hummingbirds. Hardiness Zone: Zones 3-9Sunlight: Full sun to partial shadeSHOP COLUMBINEAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below5Trumpet Vine (Campsis Radicans)Little Hand Images//Getty ImagesAs their name suggests, these flowers resemble the horn of a trumpet. Their bright orange color and long tubular flowers make them the perfect food source for hummingbirds on the hunt.Hardiness Zone: Zones 4-9Sunlight: Direct sunlightSHOP TRUMPET VINE6Pink Azalea (Rhododendron Periclymenoides)ooyoo//Getty ImagesAzaleas are a backyard favorite, and for good reason. They’re colorful, versatile and low-maintenance. Luckily, their pink and red funnel-shaped flowers are loved by hummingbirds too. Hardiness Zone: Zones 5-9Sunlight: Morning sun, afternoon shadeSHOP AZALEASAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below7Impatiensstrathroy//Getty ImagesAlthough not tubular, impatiens still provide hummingbirds with a reliable source of nectar. Their bright color definitely doesn’t hurt, either. Hardiness Zone: Zones 10-11Sunlight: Partial shade, indirect sunlightSHOP IMPATIENS8Red Begonia (Begonia Interspecific)by IAISI//Getty ImagesThis flower fits the bill for many reasons — it’s red, holds plenty of nectar and has an ideal structure for feeding. Hummingbirds can easily hover on top, sucking the nectar from the gorgeous blooms. Hardiness Zone: Zones 9-11Sunlight: Partial shadeSHOP BEGONIASAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below9HibiscusDouglas Peebles//Getty ImagesHibiscus flowers add an exotic touch to any backyard garden, and hummingbirds definitely notice. Their eye-catching blooms keep these birds fed all season long. Hardiness Zone: Zones 10-12Sunlight: Direct sunlightSHOP HIBISCUS10ZinniaSteve Terrill//Getty ImagesZinnias, known for their annual growth and low-maintenance nature, are particularly intriguing to pollinators like hummingbirds. The best part? They thrive in direct sunlight with minimal care! Hardiness Zone: Zones 2-11Sunlight: Direct sunlightSHOP ZINNIASAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below11Purple Lupine (Lupinus Polyphyllus)TorriPhoto//Getty ImagesThanks to their tall purple blooms, this flower adds character to any garden. They’re known for attracting hummingbirds, bees and butterflies. Keep in mind that they’re also deer-resistant. Hardiness Zone: Zones 4-9Sunlight: Direct sunlightSHOP PURPLE LUPINE12Morning Glory (Ipomoea)frederic gombert / 500px//Getty ImagesUsually grown on fences and walls, morning glory vines are pretty easy to maintain, even in dryer conditions. These bright blue flowers grow on top of the vines, attracting hummingbirds with their tubular shape. Hardiness Zone: Zones 2-11Sunlight: Direct sunlightSHOP MORNING GLORYAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below13Orange Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias Tuberosa)John_Brueske//Getty ImagesOnce established, orange butterfly milkweed is a pretty low maintenance (and vibrant!) addition to an outdoor space. Their bright orange color stands out amongst other plants. Plus, there are plenty of flowers for hummingbirds to feed from since they grow in clusters. Hardiness Zone: Zones 3-9Sunlight: Direct sunlightSHOP ORANGE BUTTERFLY MILKWEED14LantanaMoelyn Photos//Getty ImagesKnown for their versatility, lantana flowers bloom from spring all the way to fall, making them a consistent source of nectar for hummingbirds. Hardiness Zone: Zones 9-11Sunlight: Direct sunlightSHOP LANTANA Advertisement – Continue Reading Below15Coral Honeysuckle (Lonicera Sempervirens)Sharon Talson//Getty ImagesCoral honeysuckles bloom in clusters of trumpet-shaped flowers, making them a unique, charming addition to a colorful spring garden. Hummingbirds love to squeeze their long, thin beaks into these skinny openings for easy nectar access. Hardiness Zone: Zones 4-9Sunlight: Full sun to partial shadeSHOP CORAL HONEYSUCKLE16Petuniakynny//Getty ImagesOften seen in hanging flower baskets, petunias are popular for their long-lasting, colorful blooms. Available in all sorts of vibrant shades — pink, purple, red, blue, white and yellow — petunias are eye candy for humans and hummingbirds alike. Hardiness Zone: Zones 9-11Sunlight: Direct sunlightSHOP PETUNIAAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below17Hollyhocks (Alcea)Jacky Parker Photography//Getty ImagesLooking for a taller plant to balance out your garden? Hollyhocks grow up to 6-8 feet, adding vertical height to any outdoor space. These pollinator-friendly flowers bloom in pink, red, yellow, purple, blue, white and black. Hardiness Zone: Zones 3-9Sunlight: Direct sunlightSHOP HOLLYHOCKS18Russian Sage (Salvia Yangii)Photos by R A Kearton//Getty ImagesAdd some texture to your garden with Russian sage, a drought-tolerant plant that provides a lively lavender border for your yard. Plus, the abundant flowers all over the plant provide a reliable nectar source for hummingbirds from mid-summer all the way to fall. Hardiness Zone: Zones 4-9Sunlight: Direct sunlightSHOP RUSSIAN SAGELaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates. Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

I’ve lost track of the many times I’ve frantically rummaged through kitchen drawers or peered inside cabinets for a specific kitchen utensil while my dinner was burning on the stove. I’ve tried a number of drawer organizers and shelf dividers, but when it comes to organizing kitchen utensils, I just can’t seem to get it right.Whether it’s cooking, organizing or hosting, there is one person I always turn to for home-related advice: Martha Stewart. It’s no surprise that she has a tip for this exact kitchen organization issue.Stewart has a lot of utensils, from whisks to strainers to wooden spoons and beyond. She recently organized her prep kitchen in her Bedford, New York, property from top to bottom, sharing her tips along the way. Here’s how to organize your kitchen utensils just like Martha Stewart — and it only takes three steps!Sort utensils by type.First, sort all of your kitchen utensils by type (wooden spoons, strainers, tongs, whisks, serving spoons, etc.). Once you have piles of each, you’re ready to move onto the next step. Анатолий Тушенцов//Getty ImagesGet rid of anything that’s broken.Go through your various piles, and get rid of any broken or damaged utensils. Consolidating your collection will make it easier to find what you really need while cooking. Declutter the KitchenUse crocks to organize.Martha Stewart’s key organizational tool for sorting utensils? Crocks! Stewart suggests putting each type of utensil in its own crock, organized by size. For example, larger or taller spatulas would be towards the outside or back of the crock, while smaller or shorter ones would be towards the middle or front for easy access. If you don’t have as many kitchen utensils as Martha Stewart (I certainly do not), don’t worry — you can still use this trick. Once you get to the last step, organize all your utensils together in size order so you still have easy access. You can also try sorting your utensils into just a few different crocks by material type with wooden, silicone or rubber and metal all in separate canisters. Shop Kitchen Utensil OrganizersRelated 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

I grew up with two cats at home, and if I had to pick one negative from the whole 15-year experience, it would be the constant fur all over my clothes. Like many pet owners, I would have to lint roll everything, which always seemed a bit wasteful. Now, there are plenty of reusable tools that work well on all sorts of fabrics. When it comes to removing cat fur or hair off of clothes in particular, there are a few tools that reign supreme, according to our experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab. Below are a few methods you can try, plus how to prevent cat hair buildup in the first place. How to Remove Cat Hair From Clothes OXO Good Grips Furlifter Pet Garment Brush Hair RemoverNow 12% OffWhile you can definitely still use a typical lint roller to get rid of cat hair, there are more sustainable tools out there. One of the GHI’s go-to products is the OXO Furlifter Pet Garment Brush Hair Remover. During Lab tests, the product actually left surfaces clean after one quick swipe. Plus, the base holds multiple passes of pet hair before it has to be emptied and cleaned, making it a quick and efficient solution for cat parents on the go. Amazon customers love the pet hair remover, too — it has more than 7,000 five-star ratings. Here’s one positive review: “I had a cat before — but not a long-haired one — and WOW! My new little guy has a lot of fur! And it is EVERYWHERE. This brush works better than anything else I’ve found to get it all off of my clothes so I don’t look like a crazy person. It is simple to use and gets the job done. 5 stars!”TIP: When shopping for any pet hair removal tools, opt for ones without metal teeth. These tend to snag on fabrics, causing thread pulls or other damage. If your clothes tend to make their way into the wash with lingering cat hair, try out Bounce Pet Hair Dryer Sheets. The Home Care & Cleaning Lab tested these by loading a sweater with a heavy amount of faux pet hair into the dryer with one of the sheets. The results? A sweater almost completely free of fur. Related StoryHow to Prevent Cat Hair BuildupWhile a home with pets will never be free of fur, there is one thing you can do to help prevent intense buildup on clothes. Hint: It starts by tackling the problem at the source.CHOLTICHA KRANJUMNONG//Getty ImagesMake it a habit to brush your cat more often, catching any loose hair or fur before it ends up on your clothes (or anywhere else for that matter). You can even schedule it into your evening cuddling sessions so you don’t forget! 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

The very idea of spring cleaning can feel overwhelming. It’s not meant to be a quick, surface-level task, but a project that involves giving copious time and attention to all the nooks and crannies that got overlooked while you were hibernating during winter (in other words, bingeing series after series while curled up next to the fire). If you hosted over the holiday season, your home is likely in even greater need of some sudsy TLC. The good news? With the right edit of products and a thoughtful, room-by-room approach, you can keep panic at bay. Today’s smartest cleansing solutions make refreshing and reorganizing easier than ever — and you can find them all in one place: Walmart. The go-to shop for most everything has an impressive array of essentials that make tackling and maintaining any spring-cleaning project astonishingly simple. The KitchenThe most hardworking room in the house always takes a beating, but perhaps never more than over the holidays. So when you consider deep-cleaning your appliances, countertops and such in the aftermath, fend off any preliminary feelings of dread, take a deep breath, and employ these powerful products that do much of the work for you. Dawn Platinum Powerwash Dish Spray, created to mimic the power of an overnight soak in minutes, is one sink-side must. It suds on contact without water, with three cleaning boosters that let it tackle grease and grime five times quicker than traditional dish soaps (vs. Dawn non-concentrated), according to the brand. It’s great for kitchen MVPs like casserole dishes and fry pans, and can also be used on stovetops, grills and countertops.Clorox Disinfecting Wipes are another smart buy to stock up on before you dive into cleaning mode. They remove a step in the cleaning process (no spraying product on paper towels before each swipe) and can kill 99.9% of lingering germs when used as directed. Less unwieldy than a sponge or scrub brush, each sheet is easy to twirl around your fingers to access tough-to-reach spots that need attention — and don’t forget the doorknobs and fridge and microwave handles. These germ-killers can be used on any nonporous surface (including finished wood, sealed granite and stainless steel) and are easy to swipe and toss. While waist-level spots tend to grab your attention first, you definitely can’t overlook your kitchen floor. 2X Concentrated Fabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaner & Floor Cleaner handily cuts through grease, grime, and dirt. Since it’s double-concentrated, you get twice as many uses out of a bottle (compared with non-concentrated Fabuloso Original), so you can maintain those squeaky-clean floors and that fresh scent alike all year long.Finally, spring is the perfect time to restock your cabinet with a healthy pack of strong trash bags. Glad’s ForceFlex Tall Kitchen Drawstring bags are a top pick for accommodating anything and everything (including those oddly shaped trays of leftovers hiding at the back of the fridge, and the random items that ended up on the “toss” list during a decluttering spree). They have two layers of leak protection (no need to double bag!), odor protection and a Gain Lavender scent to help keep the whole space smelling fresh and clean.Your shopping list:Dawn Powerwash SprayClorox Disinfecting WipesFabuloso Multi-Purpose Cleaner & Floor CleanerGlad ForceFlex Tall Kitchen Drawstring Trash BagsThe BathroomsAfter a season featuring a revolving door of guests, there are likely places in your bathrooms that are looking … less than sparkling. Start by disinfecting surfaces with Soft Scrub with Bleach Cleanser. The micro-abrasive formula is effective at achieving the deepest clean possible without heaps of elbow grease (or leaving surface scratches). Just apply and let it sit for three minutes before rinsing away.Another area of the bathroom that deserves to shine again? The mirror. Vanities are magnets for smudges from fingertips, splashes from the sink, and flecks of toothpaste. Get it back to pristine status with the new Windex Foaming Glass Cleanser (coming soon!). This fast-acting no-drip and streak-free option clings to vertical glass surfaces to help you efficiently wipe away grime. Let it do its thing on the shower door and chrome fixtures, too.With its swivel head and disposable multisurface mopping pads, the savvy Swiffer Power Mop can produce the same clean as a classic mop-and-bucket in half the time. More than 300 scrubbing strips effortlessly grab at dirt, while the pre-mixed cleaning formula (another aspect that lets you speed through your chores) breaks down tough messes, doesn’t require rinsing and dries quickly. Plus, it leaves behind a fresh scent that can linger for up to two hours. For an even better-smelling powder room, finish your clean by activating a Febreze Bathroom Air Freshener, which can fight odors in small spaces for up to 45 days — no messy refills, outlets or batteries required. Your shopping list:Soft Scrub with Bleach Antibacterial Surface CleanserSwiffer Power Mop Multi-Surface KitFebreze Bathroom Air FreshenerThe Laundry RoomSheets, towels, comforters, out-of-season clothing — when it comes to laundry, there are loads aplenty when you begin spring-cleaning in earnest. But rather than throwing in the proverbial towel before you throw any actual towels in the wash, restock your laundry routine with a hypoallergenic detergent that will work well for most everything in the hamper. all® free clear Original Liquid Laundry Detergent is 100% free of dyes and perfumes that can irritate sensitive skin — always a wise choice for towels and sheets future guests might use. If you prefer a subtle scent post-wash, try all® sensitive fresh™, which is also gentle on skin.While this task is about looking ahead, it’s happening during the time of year when you’re also saying au revoir to winter clothes that will be folded away for months to come. Give your sweaters and coats a close look to make sure you catch any small stains first, and let the detergent pull double duty: Dab a small amount on as a pretreatment ahead of washing for extra cleaning power. Another get-it-all-done-faster laundry trick to remember: The all® brand also offers a single Mighty Pac version, meaning you can skip the measuring cup and any potential dribbling. Toss one in (or two for a large load) before you add clothes and go — you still have lots more on your spring-cleaning list, after all. Smart dryer sheets like all® Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets for Sensitive Skin are one final way to make sure the laundering process is as effective as it can possibly be. They fight wrinkles and add softness — two things you’ll be grateful for when unboxing these clothes next autumn.Your shopping list:all® free clear Original Liquid Laundry Detergent all® free clear Mighty Pacs all® sensitive fresh™ Laundry Detergent all® Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets for Sensitive Skin Leah Melby Clinton is a writer, editor, and serious shopper who loves discovering new labels, detailing the best ways to build a wardrobe, and interviewing interesting people. More

As a movie-obsessed home editor, I often find myself swooning over stylish sets or interiors on the big screen. Think movies like The Holiday or When Harry Met Sally that immediately make you want to redecorate. It could be a cozy fireplace filled with books, a light-filled bedroom outfitted with beautiful neutral hues or a charming breakfast nook, complete with a banquette. While my current apartment is not there just yet, there is one expert DIYer who loves nothing more than stealing inspiration from movies when decorating her home. Anna Page, founder of The Page Edit, who went viral for her Nancy Meyers-inspired makeover of her New York City apartment back in 2023. “I watch a lot of specific movies for comfort, and they just make me feel cozy and warm inside. They provide a lot of inspiration,” says Page. “It’s kind of like romanticizing your life, pulling something from a movie that’s generally not real. It’s like getting to live with an almost imaginary piece for real.”Page has done that time and time again, taking design ideas from movies and making them her own both functionally and aesthetically. Here are five of her favorite film-inspired DIY projects she’s completed in her Manhattan apartment (which she’s moved out of since), along with a few recent ideas from her new Georgia family home. Just grab some popcorn and start scrolling!The Devil Wears Prada20th Century StudiosIt doesn’t get much more iconic than The Devil Wears Prada. As a commentary on the fashion industry, there’s design inspiration at every turn. “In the office, there’s a huge gallery wall. The wall is just covered,” says Page. “I love adding gallery walls to any blank wall that I can. But even though my taste is a little more traditional, that one inspired me to pull in some black and white pieces that feel a little more sleek, and they do gallery walls very well in that movie.”Anna Page, The Page EditAnna Page, The Page Edit Need help styling a gallery wall? It might be worth rewatching your favorite films for inspiration. Sabrina While Sabrina takes place in a mansion on Long Island, Page is more interested in the tiny cottage above the garage where the chauffeur’s daughter, Sabrina, lives. Paramount Pictures”They have this fireplace that’s partially brick and partially drywall,” says Page. “It was one of the things that inspired me because when we moved into our house, we had this huge all-brick fireplace, and it felt a little cold. So I was like, ‘How could I make that a little bit cozier?’ So we partially closed it off with some of the brick peaking through.”Anna Page, The Page EditAnna Page, The Page Edit Page took her movie-inspired space to the next level with the styling of her bookcase: “I just threw stuff up there and put some picture frames, and it gives such a lived-in feel, which I think is what people are starting to gravitate towards a little bit.”You’ve Got MailYou’ve Got Mail is a classic for a reason — it’s almost impossible not to romanticize the idea of living in a cute Manhattan apartment while falling in love anonymously. Warner Bros., Warner Bros. Pictures”In Kathleen Kelly’s apartment, she has a checkerboard floor. I did a renter-friendly version of that in our previous apartment,” says Page. “They were these black and white faux tiles, and they were kind of made of vinyl, but they were peel-and-stick. It gave a really fun pop of pattern.”Anna Page, The Page EditWhile living in a rented space can pose design-related issues, there are plenty of renter-friendly solutions you can try. Take Page’s floor, for example — she was able to bring in a piece of one of her favorite films through a simple DIY (without spending a fortune).Related StoryJulie & JuliaAlthough Page does not claim to be a chef, she does take inspiration from Nora Ephron’s Julie & Julia, specifically falling in love with the idea of a copper pot rail in the kitchen. Columbia Pictures, Sony Pictures Releasing”In our New York apartment, I didn’t have an island. I didn’t have room above my stove. But we did have a random window in our kitchen that looked out to a lovely brick wall,” says Page. “I got a pot rail from Etsy, and we hung pots and pans in front of that window. It was such a charming little detail to add to the space.”Columbia Pictures, Sony Pictures ReleasingSure, there might not be tons of space available in your home, but there’s always a creative space-saving solution hidden somewhere. Not only does a pot rail add personality, it also acts as extra storage. Related StoryIt’s ComplicatedPossibly the queen of building cozy lived-in interiors for her characters, Nancy Meyers knows how to create a charming nook. It’s Complicated is a prime example of that. Universal Pictures”A lot of Nancy Meyers movies have very cozy eating situations,” says Page. “In our house we just moved into, we have this breakfast room off the kitchen. I wanted it to feel very cozy, where you just want to go sit and have a cup of coffee and eat your breakfast. So we did a wallpapered dining nook that has a dining bench, a round table and upholstered chairs.”Anna Page, The Page EditWhile not the same style-wise, Page brings in the communal feel all dining nooks seem to evoke in her own way, creating a space that works for her. And that concept goes for all movie-inspired ideas. It’s not about trying to “copy and paste,” according to Page. It’s all about the way a space makes you feel. 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

Itching to break out the gardening gloves? Winter is almost over, which means it’s time to start preparing your yard for a healthy spring garden. However, timing is key when it comes to planting your seeds, and it all depends on location. The Old Farmer’s Alamanac has released a new easy-to-read “How Soon You Can Plant” map that shows each region’s anticipated conditions — including precipitation, soil moisture, frost thaw and more — at the start of the season. According to data from The Old Farmer’s Alamanac, the start of planting this year is on track or even slightly earlier than normal. Typically, the gardening season in Southern Mainland U.S. starts between March and May, Central and Northern Mainland U.S. starts between April and June and Southern Canada starts between May and June. However, there are a few key notes to keep in mind if you live in an area labeled one of the following:Wet StartSoil that is wetter than usual can lead to a slow start of the gardening season, which means you might have to a wait a bit before grabbing your shovel. Be patient and avoid starting while the soil is still too wet. To figure out if your soil is ready, The Old Farmer’s Almanac suggests digging a 6-inch hole and grabbing a handful of soil. If the dirt keeps its shape, it’s too wet. Dry StartSoil that is dryer may slow plant growth even when temperatures are favorable for an early start to the gardening season. Before getting started, plan an irrigation system and opt for drought-resistant plants like beans, lavender and sunflowers. Organic materials like mulch can also help maintain moisture in your garden. Cold StartColder temperatures lead to a later start of the season. There are a few different methods you can try for warming up soil, one being through a cold frame — a box with a clear top that keeps heat in and protects plants from harsh winds. You can also opt for plants and vegetables that thrive in colder conditions. Hot StartAlthough warmer temperatures, when paired with enough rain, can promote early planting and growth, too much heat can also put stress on plants. To combat hot conditions, choose heat-tolerant seeds and use shade cloth to filter out some of the sun’s rays. Prepare for SpringLaura 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

1Neutrals With a Pop of ColorAimee RyanNot a fan of color-drenching? Designer Liz Curry of Liz Curry Studio says bright colors in small doses can also make a statement. “Mixing in color with neutrals is a perfect way to create a sophisticated environment that is elevated and whimsy at the same time. In 2025, we’ll be seeing a splash or two of color for a bolder look.” Photo by: Aimee Ryan2Fluid Patterns Heather Ison PhotographyDesigner Marie Cloud of Indigo Pruitt is excited about the return of organic movement in design. “Think fluid patterns, hand-formed textures and nature-inspired shapes that add depth and personality to a space,” Cloud says. Rather than rigid lines and uniformity, Cloud believes there will be more furniture designs and decorative accents with free-flowing silhouettes and wavy details. “It’s all about embracing a sense of ease and livable beauty this season,” she adds. Photo by: Heather IsonAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below3Shades of Green Brian WetzelVerdant hues will be everywhere this season. “Expect all shades of green from dark hunter to chartreuse,” says Sarah Storms of Styled by Storms. “Whether it’s just a pop or color-drenching, green is here to stay and is giving blue a run for its money.” Photo by: Brian WetzelRELATED: The Biggest Paint Color Trends of 20254Retro-Inspired AccentsSarah BakerWhat’s old is new again, right? According to designer Erin Laméy of LoBello Designs, expect a resurgence of retro-inspired pieces layered with antiques that add personality to an interior. “Retro revival is all about bold colors, sculptural furniture and playful patterns—reinterpreting iconic styles with a fresh perspective,” says Laméy. “We like to take it a step further by sourcing vintage pieces that go beyond trends, because authenticity is key.” Photo by: Sarah BakerRELATED: A Beginner’s Guide to Antique ShoppingAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below5Personalized Touches Photography by Rob Grosse // SpacecraftingSometimes, all it takes are simple yet thoughtful decorative accents to pull a room together. “This spring, it’s all about adding small, personalized touches to your home that make a big impact,” says Bria Hammel of Bria Hammel Interiors. “From custom cushions for a barstool to unique, handpicked knobs for cabinets, these little details bring character and charm to any space. It’s an easy way to refresh your home without a major renovation — just a few thoughtful swaps can turn everyday items into one-of-a-kind statement pieces.” Photo by: Rob Grosse // Spacecrafting Photography6Organic Textures Brian Wetzel“Live teak root coffee tables or seagrass mirrors are great ways to add a natural and interesting piece of furniture to your home,” says designer Sarah Storms of Styled by Storms. Layers of texture never fail to make a space feel more lived-in and inviting. “The instant warmth that comes from this texture is something that can’t be matched,” Storms adds. Photo by: Brian WetzelAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below7Hidden SpacesAlejandro EspanaKeeping clutter at bay is key in any home, and designer Lindsay Olson of Lulu Designs has noticed that hidden rooms and storage solutions are trending. “People want more from their homes,” Olson says. “Houses working hard to keep things in place, along with creating hidden spaces for the clutter, is essential for spring.” Photo by: Alejandro EspanaRELATED: Closed Kitchen Storage Is Trending 8Biophilic DesignZeke Ruelas“Biophilic design, or the essence of bringing the outdoors in, will continue to be a favorite trend this spring,” says Brad Ramsey of Brad Ramsey Interiors. From an abundance of greenery to beautiful natural light and oversized, airy windows, interiors will embrace the beauty of nature. “There’s a focus on plants not just as decor but as essential design elements to improve mood and air quality,” he adds.Photo by: Zeke Ruelas Advertisement – Continue Reading Below9Organic Curves Life CreatedWhen it comes to furniture, designs with curves are all the rage, says designer Lauren Lerner of Living With Lolo. Organic curves boost a room’s visual appeal and “create a soft, inviting look.” Try dining chairs, an accent table or a great mirror with curves. “Their fluid shapes also bring a sense of comfort and renewal, making them perfect for the season of growth.” Photo by: Life Created10Wallpapered Ceilings Richard LawCeilings are one of the most overlooked spaces in a home and designer Kerith Flynn of Margali & Flynn Designs says they can add depth and visual interest to a space with one element — wallpaper. “This creative approach incorporates natural tones and earthy materials, with patterns inspired by nature like botanical prints, stone textures and organic shapes,” Flynn says. For this living room, Flynn settled on a Thibaut wallpaper made from real wood. “This design choice truly helped our client step out of the box and take a bold design risk that paid off in the most beautiful way,” he says. Photo by: Richard LawRELATED: Why Designers Don’t Want You to Overlook the “Fifth Wall”Advertisement – Continue Reading Below11Lilac Erin KestenbaumGone are the days when lilac was reserved only for nurseries — it’s showing up elsewhere too, says Jeanne Barber of Camden Grace Interiors. “We’re seeing lilac accents throughout a variety of spaces — like in this project where we used lilac accents throughout to add a pop!” Photo by: Erin Kestenbaum12Outdoor Rooms Robert Peterson / Rustic White InteriorsWhether it’s a cozy patio lounge or a stylish al fresco dining setup, designer Erika Ward of Erika Ward Interiors appreciates welcoming outdoor rooms that mirror interior spaces. “Blurring the lines between indoors and out, these spaces incorporate plush seating, weather-resistant rugs and stylish lighting to create a seamless extension of the home,” Ward says. “Advances in durable materials and smart outdoor technology make it easier than ever to enjoy the comfort and sophistication of an indoor living room—under the open sky.”Photo by: Robert PetersonRELATED: 55 Stunning Backyard Decor Ideas to Add Pizzazz to Your SpaceAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below13Bright, Bold PatternsLotty BunburyIndoors and out, you can never go wrong with incorporating a fun pattern into your home this spring, says designer Colleen Bennett of CBB Design Firm. “We’re seeing lots and lots of big, bold, bright patterns and greens are always big,” Bennett says. “There’s floral, toile, tassels and beautiful trims. It’s classic and always comes back around in the spring.” Photo by: Lotty Bunbury14Mixing Old and NewErin KellyThis season, expect to see rooms that blend old and new seamlessly. “Incorporating heirloom pieces, particularly in older homes, is often the best ways to make your home feel the most personal and bespoke,” says Mindy Kelson of Melinda Kelson O’Connor Architecture and Interiors. “Re-using furniture is good for the environment, and also adds an individual charm that can’t be easily replicated with only brand new pieces. Juxtaposing those pieces against modern artwork, furnishings and fabrics can work a certain magic that is hard to replicate in other ways.” Photo by: Erin Kelly Monique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand’s home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, “What’s in My Cart.”Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More