Home Ideas

When decorating an apartment or house, wall decor is the perfect way to showcase your personality and complete the space. Often, hanging artwork is the very last task to tackle, because it involves a hammer and nails and careful consideration when it comes to choosing the best place to display each piece. Whether you’re decorating a rental or want to avoid damaging your walls, we’re sharing the best advice on how to hang art without using nails. Not only will your walls be void of holes, but these easy methods make it possible to swap or add artwork as your collection grows. From family photos and striking paintings to artsy gallery walls, these tips will make the process easy. Try hanging art from clothespins for bedroom wall decor, leaning and layering art on a fireplace mantel or using washi tape as photo frames. Keep it simple by swapping nails for adhesive strips or picture hooks — no one will know the difference. Keep scrolling for even more genius ideas. 1. Rely on adhesive strips.Apply adhesive strips directly to picture frames (we recommend using one or two strips on each side of the frame, depending on its size). Find the right size strip based on the weight of the artwork. Heavy duty strips (for pictures between 10 and 20 pounds) typically require one strip adhered to the wall and one to the photo frame, then you must line up the strips to hang. Adhesive strips work well on painted walls, as well as tile, concrete and glass surfaces. Keep in mind: Most adhesive strips shouldn’t be applied to wallpaper, fabric or brick walls. Command Picture Hanging Strips2. Lean and layer art.Wall decor doesn’t have to hang on the wall. Display framed artwork on any surface, be it a fireplace mantel, floating shelf or console table, by leaning it against the wall. For an elevated style, arrange taller and larger artwork directly against the wall with smaller frames in front.Sara Ligorria-TrampTake note from designer Velinda Hellen and lean art on a mantel. 3. Hang clothespins on ribbon or twine.Secure both sides of a piece of twine or ribbon to the wall, using clear tape or push pins. Clip photographs and prints with small clothespins to the twine or ribbon. While this trendy decorating idea won’t work for large, heavy artwork, it’s a fun way to display a mix of art without damaging your walls. Added bonus: You can easily swap out prints and photographs as you collect new pieces. 4. Use adhesive picture hooks.Find the right adhesive hook by determining the size and weight of your artwork, as well as the hanger on the back. Command has specific sawtooth frame hangers, wire back hangers, large canvas holders and universal frame hangers, but you can also use common wall hooks — just note how much weight each hook can support. Clear hooks work well for small artwork as well. It’s recommended that hooks are adhered to the wall for at least an hour before hanging anything.Command Picture Hanging Hooks5. Install picture rail molding.Putting up molding isn’t a renter-friendly idea, but it’s definitely a unique way to display your favorite artwork. Find molding with a curved top that will fit picture hangers, and nail it into the wall. Later, hang framed prints and paintings with picture hanging wire. A Beautiful MessBlogger Elsie Larson of A Beautiful Mess installs picture rail molding, then hangs artwork using rail hooks and brass wire.6. Make a washi tape gallery wall.Tape your favorite prints and photos to the wall using colorful washi tape. The bright shades will give the artwork a colorful border while safely adhering it to the wall. If you’re attempting to arrange a gallery wall, make sure to find art in various sizes and plan a layout before you start taping.7. Prop a bulletin board.Show off a mix of photographs, prints, quotes and cuttings from magazines without hanging anything directly onto the wall. Coat a wood board with magnetic paint, then secure the artwork once it’s dried. The best part? You can rearrange, add or remove pieces whenever you wish. Sara Albers of Alice & LoisSara Albers of Alice & Lois turned a basic pine board into an arched mood board, painting it with magnetic paint so hanging artwork is simple. 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

1Urban Shop Disco Ball PillowThis disco-ball pillow is a groovy addition to any space. At just 12 inches in diameter, it’ll fit as an accent pillow on the bed or perfectly positioned on a chair.2Mainstays LED Desk Lamp with Catch-All BaseThis retro lighting option comes in multiple colors and with its own energy-efficient lightbulb that will last up to 12,000 hours. Plus, the base serves as storage space for small items like nail files, paper clips, earbuds or a go-to lip gloss — and the integrated AC outlet allows for an extra charging station.3Urban Shop Crescent Folding Moon ShelfHere’s a true piece of functional art: a celestial silhouette that doubles as extra shelf space. At nearly 18 inches tall, it’s big enough to display books, trinkets or a few small plants. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below4Mainstays Reversible 5-Piece Bed in a Bag Comforter Set A ’60s-inspired floral-print comforter will add a much-needed jolt of color and liveliness to the most dreary of dorms. This machine-washable set includes a comforter, a pillow sham and coordinating solid ivory sheets. 5Urban Shop Checkered Hug PillowIt may look sophisticated, but it’s also a sweet antidote to homesickness. On a rough day, the velvety form is a cozy substitute for a real hug from family or friends.6WiZ Wi-Fi LED Light Strip Now 17% OffSimple to install, this 13-foot flexible light strip works with Wi-Fi, no extra equipment needed. Once it’s easily adhered to any surface — ceiling, bookshelves, doorways — it’s controlled by an app to adjust the warm amber light from dim to bright, or to any color in the rainbow.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7Mainstays Boucle Cloud Storage OttomanTo make the most of a small space, cute storage bins are key. This funky option doubles as extra seating and is perfect for storing extra bedding, seasonal clothing or textbooks, too. 8Urban Shop White Groovy BackrestThe perfect item for a change of pace from studying at a desk or for TV binge sessions. The plush, ergonomic design allows for relaxation and comfort, but still offers the support needed to stay alert and focused on work at hand.9Urban Shop Daisy TableTop ClockThis small, cheerful clock will yield smiles and punctuality. The compact timepiece is battery-operated (i.e., no tangled cords), which means it can be placed on a desk, on top of a bookshelf or on a wall shelf as part of the decor. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below10Mainstays Faux Fur Indoor Area RugPull attention away from a dorm floor’s somber neutral palette with an area rug in a fun pattern. Crafted from ultra-soft faux fur material, this one is designed to withstand daily wear and tear.11Urban Shop Color Changing LED Groovy Wall MirrorThere’s nothing basic about this mirror — its wavy shape and color-changing LED lights will set the scene for any and every mood.Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

1Bring in Art and SculpturesLifeCreatedDon’t limit your display to books. Take note from design firm Living With Lolo and layer in art, sculptures, houseplants and any decorative items that showcase your personality. 2Hang Picture Lights AboveJenifer McNeil BakerDraw attention to your bookshelf by mounting picture lights above, just as Maestri Studio does in this moody living space. Not only do the gold fixtures illuminate your collection, they serve as a modern accent. 3Arrange Books by ColorLaura SteffanFor this slim bookshelf, designer Megan Evans organizes hardcover books in rainbow order, designating one tier to each color. She starts with red on top and swaps purple for pink on the bottom shelf.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below4Take a Minimalist ApproachRead McKendreeTo decorate this navy blue built-in, designer Ryann Swan relies on neutral hardcover books, abstract sculptures and earthy vases. For a minimalist style, it’s best to leave negative space on every shelf.5Show Off a HobbyStaircase: Aimée Mazzenga; designed by Bria Hammel InteriorsA floor-to-ceiling built-in provides the perfect opportunity to showcase decor that reflects your interests and hobbies. Here, designer Bria Hammel incorporates two tennis rackets and a few small trophies. 6Play With Height and ProportionsMargaret Rajic PhotographyFor visual interest, arrange books of various heights and thickness. Take note from Outline Interiors and weave in decor of various sizes — think meaningful art, sculptures and knick-knacks. Aim for every shelf to have a different number of items to make it look more curated than styled. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7Decorate With AntiquesTORY WILLIAMSFrom vases and figurines to artwork, this floor-to-ceiling bookcase is full of eye-catching antiques. Design firm JAM adds a rolling ladder to make high-up shelving more accessible, which allows the homeowners to rearrange decor as their collection grows. 8Grow HouseplantsMargaret Rajic PhotographyIf your bookshelf is positioned in a sunny location, it’s a stylish place for houseplants to thrive. Mix small greens and succulents amongst your books, or dedicate the entire top shelf to larger plants like this setup from Outline Interiors.9Stack Books in Alternating PositionsJenifer McNeil BakerBy stacking books vertically and horizontally, design firm Maestri Studio creates visual interest on these gold bookshelves. For horizontal stacks, always place the largest books on the bottom.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below10Leave Negative Space Christopher DibbleOverloading shelves can give the illusion of clutter. Instead, leave empty space on each shelf and let the eye focus its attention on your best decor.11Weave in Whimsical ItemsSara Liggoria-TrampAdd personality to any bookshelf with funky sculptures, colorful trinkets and books you’ve actually read. Arrange books of various shapes and sizes, even stacking small decorative items on top if you’re going for an eclectic look.See more at Style by Emily Henderson »12Make Every Shelf DifferentMargaret Rajic Photography; Design by Outline InteriorsYou don’t want your shelves to look too styled. Group like items, go for different heights, leave blank space and most importantly, never style every shelf exactly the same. Some shelves may have two or three items, while others have four or five — the variation is key. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below13Showcase Old EncyclopediasJenifer McNeil BakerLean into a traditional approach and let a collection of dictionaries and encyclopedias act as home office decor, just as Maestri Studio does here. Don’t forget to sprinkle in personal items, like family photos, accolades and a college diploma. 14Mix Storage With DecorCourtesy of ChatbooksFrom a framed diploma to a brass tea set, this well-styled étagère brings charm to this office space. There are also bins, a large chest and file organizer for extra storage.15Embrace a Worldly LookLisa RomereinMiss traveling abroad? Use your bookshelf to showcase some of the global-inspired curios you’ve collected over the years. Finish the look by placing a few globes on an upper shelf to stay on theme.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below16Stick to a Subtle ThemeKeys to InspirationFrom the model rocket and sky globe to moon books, this home office brings in a playful theme that doesn’t overpower the room. The mix of art, sculptures, bottles and faux plants adds a ton of personality to the space. See more at Christene Holder Home »17Hang a Bookshelf HighCourtesy of ChatbooksThanks to baby-blue penny tiles, these custom office shelves, which are inspired by a mid-century modern credenza, are the perfect old-meets-new-look. 18Layer in Pastel Touches Dominic BlackmoreAccessories boasting pops of soft pink, robin’s egg blue and lemon yellow are a brilliant choice for a spring shelf upgrade.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below19Display Fine ChinaJeff HerrUse rustic shelves to highlight a treasured china collection. Balance the display with color-coordinated books, then elevate the look with artwork hung over shelves. 20Rely on Decorative BinsKate OsborneBring in colorful fabric bins to not only elevate your bookshelf, but provide additional storage. Store toys, wire or household essentials in nearby bins without sacrificing style.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.”Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

The beauty of plants and the act of caring for them can be truly healing. “Looking at something aesthetically pleasing can boost neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin,” Cates explains. Keeping plants primes your brain to look forward to interacting with the plant and receiving a hit of “feel good neurochemicals,” offering immediate benefits by improving mood and stress management, according to Cates.Plants can also offer a “whole-person positive impact,” says Amy Rothenberg, N.D., a naturopathic doctor and president of the Massachusetts Society of Naturopathic Doctors. “When we talk about treating the whole person, we mean looking after the body, the emotions and the spirit; plants can touch each of those essential areas,” Rothenberg explains.They also provide long-term benefits, such as improving air quality which may reduce instances of headaches — or by adding moisture to the air, which helps with dry skin, Rothenberg says. Handling soil, which contains microbes, can promote microbiome diversity in your home, which could benefit gut and skin health. But, having houseplants alone isn’t a recommended treatment for any medical condition, Rothenberg adds. “Encouraging my patients to consider having houseplants is one part of a broader, individualized health care plan.” More

To test hardwood floor cleaners, we evaluate how well they remove a sticky, dried-on gelatin mixture that we paint precisely onto hardwood planks, how quickly and completely they remove the scuff marks we make with a rubber shoe heel, how easy they are to apply and how quickly they dry. We’ve found that the best cleaners are those specifically formulated for hard, surface-finished or polyurethane-treated floors. These cleaners have ingredients to dissolve dirt and grime without damaging the coating or dulling the shine.In the Good Housekeeping Cleaning Lab, we’re continuously testing floor cleaning essentials like vacuum cleaners, mops and robot vacuums. During our initial test, we tested 24 wood floor cleaners exactly the same way, cleaning 216 stains and scuff marks from wood flooring panels. We tested how well each product cleaned after an equal amount of passes and how many passes had to be made with each product to completely remove scuff marks and stains. All product labels were reviewed for proper safety and precautionary notices. Since then, we have continued to test new wood floor cleaning products as they become available, updating this story with the latest noteworthy ones. More

1Space Out Wooden SlatsJenifer McNeil BakerCreate division between a staircase and living room by installing warm wood slats vertically, just as Maestri Studio does here. Place them ½ inch or a full inch apart, depending on how much transparency you’d like between the spaces.2Try Glass Partition on a Half WallSteve Hershberger Four BrothersA glass partition ensures a seamless flow from kitchen to dining area in this cozy bungalow designed by Four Brothers Design + Build. The glass creates a sense of separation, while also keeping the rooms connected.3Hang a Macramé DividerA Beautiful MessPartially enclosure your home office with a playful macramé divider. With a roll of cotton cord and wooden dowel, this knotted divider is easy to make yourself.Get the tutorial at A Beautiful Mess »Advertisement – Continue Reading Below4Paint Wood Slats BlackRebecca McAlpin5Arrange a Rattan ScreenJessica Bordner6Mix MaterialsJASON VARNEYTake note from Kaminski + Pew and rely on a combination of wooden slats and frosted glass partition to create a wall between two rooms. The glass allows natural light to flow between the two rooms but doesn’t forgo privacy. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7Make a HallwayVictor Dyomin//Getty Images8DIY a Woven DividerSugar and ClothPersonalize a simple rattan or bamboo screen by weaving the slots with yarn of various colors. Try a mix of vertical and horizontal strands to create more visual interest.Get the tutorial at Sugar & Cloth »9Install a Decorative Glass Partition Jenifer McNeil BakerIn this modern interior, Maestri Studio doesn’t settle for a basic glass partition. Here, glass panels with geometric designs separate a wet bar from the rest of the house.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below10Hang Curtains Around the BedroomBrigette Muller11Put In a Freestanding FireplaceWestend61//Getty Images12Build Modern Wood SlatsThe Awesome OrangeAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below13Opt for Rolling WoodAimee MazzengaA tambour screen sets a dramatic mood in this city apartment designed by studio CAK. Depending on your daily needs, this wooden screen can be rolled and readjusted to open or close a space. 14Weave in Artful Glass Margaret MulliganDesigner Elizabeth Metcalfe shows how a simple doorway can be transformed into something delightfully new with the addition of a basic screen panel.15Rely on Louvered PanelsVicente WolfTo divide an office from a living room, designer Vicente Wolf installed a room divider constructed of minimalist louvered panels. Painted a bright white, the panels also help to brighten up the open space.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below16Hang Shoji ScreensWerner Straube For a serene and minimalist office, Gemma Parker Design opted to cocoon the walls in Shoji screen details. These room dividers are normally used free-standing in Japanese abodes.17Turn a Screen Into a HeadboardBrad R. Knipstein A wood room divider stationed behind a floor-skimming bed brings instant sophistication to this bedroom designed by Form + Field. This concept works exceptionally well in a studio apartment, if you’d prefer your bed to stand out. 18Take an Artist ApproachSara DorioArtist Angela Crusciaki Blehm deconstructed a room divider into two separate panels to frame an abstract of her own making and a sleek slipper sofa. A coat of white paint lends the dividers a plaster-like, postmodern vibe. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below19Decorate a Bedroom CornerEric PiaseckiIf you have extra space between your nightstand and wall, consider doing as New York City firm Mendelson Group did in this haven-like bedroom, and install an artful screen. 20Makeshift a DoorKerry KirkIntricately carved folding screens, fashioned as doors, give this Texas living room designed by Wills Design Associates an elevated, bespoke feeling. Marisa S. Martin is a writer for Chairish and previously worked for One Kings Lane. An ardent vintage enthusiast, she loves a good throwback trend story and believes there’s nothing a bit of brass can’t fix.Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

1Prioritize Natural LightAmy Manning, @pallet_perfectOn a nice day, a wall of windows allows fresh air to circulate around a she shed. It’ll also fill the shed with natural light, so it can double as a potting shed or greenhouse. Take note from blogger Amy Manning and paint the whole structure a crisp white to keep it bright. See more at Pallet Perfect » 2Don’t Skimp on LandscapingAlec HemerDecorate your shed’s exterior with hanging plants, potted trees and an ivy-covered trellis. Not only will the greens help the shed blend seamlessly with nature, but it’ll up its charm instantly. Install sconces on each side of the door, so you can illuminate the area at night.RELATED: 6 Easy Landscaping Moves That Add Thousands to Your Home’s Value3Create a Hobby SpaceHomemade by CarmonaOrganize a space that supports your hobbies, whether it be painting, woodworking, gardening or crafting. Use a tall cabinet to tuck away storage, and don’t forget to include comfortable chairs for lounging between projects. See more at Homemade by Carmona »Advertisement – Continue Reading Below4Make It a TreehouseThe House That Lars BuiltThis 150-square-foot house is suspended in a tree a few feet off the ground. One wall is made entirely of windows, allowing light to enter the space. On the other side is a wooden ladder that leads to a glass-paneled door.See more at The House That Lars Built »5Build in the GardenFinding lovely6Blend Indoor and Outdoor AreasHomemade by CarmonaCraft a charming oasis indoors and out. French doors at the back of the shed lead out to a deck decorated with string lights, a large sectional couch and potted plants. See more at Homemade by Carmona »Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7Choose Nature-Inspired ColorsBrian WoodcockWhen creating a color palette for a she shed, draw inspiration from nature. Think calming greens, blues, grays and shades of white that blend with the backyard’s natural landscape. 8Set Up an Entertaining AreaPer Magnus Persson//Getty ImagesInstead of crafting a private oasis, design a comfortable area for entertaining friends and family. Here, a deck extends the space of the shed and promotes indoor-outdoor living.RELATED: How to Seamlessly Add a Deck to Your Home9Turn It Into a Tiny HouseFINDING SILVER PENNIESAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below10Try a Potting ShedBrian WoodcockThis sunny potting shed makes the most of upcycled pices, including a repainted potting stand and old milk crate that acts as a stool. A thrifted card catalog serves as a multi-drawer container for seed packets, plant markers and other gardening necessities.11Repurpose Old WindowsA Beautiful MessThis 10 x 14-foot greenhouse is constructed using old windows, most of which had been thrown away, that are arranged like a puzzle. The front deck and surrounding landscape ups the curb appeal of this budget-friendly project. See more A Beautiful Mess »12Designate a WorkstationThe House That Lars BuiltTurn your shed into a quiet home office or craft room. Rely on neutral colors, cozy textures and a surge of natural light to help you feel calm and inspired as you work. See more at The House That Lars Built »Advertisement – Continue Reading Below13Paint it RedAndrea Rugg//Getty ImagesNeutral isn’t the only option. When painted a crimson red, this stylish shed resembles a backyard barn. Fill it with farmhouse-style furniture and potted plants. 14Keep It MinimalCavan Images//Getty ImagesIf you’re working with a small shed, stick to bright colors and minimal decor. A tiny window box and modest landscaping elevates this charming yellow she shed. Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

Whether you’re settling on paint colors or the best palette for bedding, designer Debbie Mathews suggests staying away from bold hues. “In general, I like to avoid using brighter colors like red, which can stimulate energy and sometimes make relaxation and sleep more difficult to achieve. Instead, I use softer colors in shades of green and blue, which can promote calmness.”Interior designer Lorna Gross agrees: “It is advisable to avoid bright versions of red, orange and yellow paint in the bedroom. These colors in their most vivid forms are often associated with anxiety and arguments. So, if your goal is to have a serene relaxing bedroom environment, stick with neutrals, cool or softer colors.”RELATED: Trending Paint Colors for 2024 More