Home Ideas

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

Known for its elegant kitchen appliances and stunning cookware, Beautiful by Drew Barrymore is entering a new space in your home — the bathroom. With wash cloths, vanity accessories and more, the brand is taking on a room you may not always consider beautiful.Similar to the brand’s home and kitchen collections, the bath assortment consists of durable, chic products that add a splash of color to any space. If the last time you upgraded your bathroom accessories is beyond your recent memory, now may be the perfect time. The bath line just dropped with affordable prices on towels, bath mats and other essentials that are perfect for a summer refresh (you can snag bath towels for $7 each and a cotton bath rug for just $15). Both practical and on-trend, Drew Barrymore has once again come through with high-quality products at amazing prices, all available at Walmart. Introduce colorful matching towel sets or experiment with wallpaper-inspired bath towels for a touch of style and comfort. Upgrade your old toothbrush jar and soap dispenser with a three-piece matching collection that includes a soap pump, toothbrush holder and vanity tray. Looking for a comprehensive bathroom makeover? Find the products that suit your taste! Shop Beautiful by Drew Barrymore’s Bath CollectionEvery item in the bath collection is available in various colors to complement your desired bathroom aesthetic. Plus, the bath towels and bath rugs are made from 100% cotton for a soft, luxurious feel.Already stocked on towels? The collection’s bath accessories, including soap dispensers, toothbrush holders, vanity trays and vanity jars, come in a sleek charcoal gray, off-white, porcini taupe and sage.Now that Beautiful by Drew Barrymore has entered the bathroom, all that’s left to do is choose the colors and designs that match your personal style!Related StoriesLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant 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 product reviews to pop culture updates. More

1Don’t Be Afraid of ColorMargaret Rajic Photography2Roll in a Small IslandDomestically BlissfulA rolling kitchen island introduces extra counter space without the commitment to a permanent fixture. When guests are over, you can simply roll it to the side or into another room. Not to mention, this white island has drawers and a cabinet for storage. See more at Domestically Blissful »3Install Window TreatmentsThomas KuohAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below4Hang Shelves in the Window Polina Pigulevsky PhotographyTake note from Mak Design & Build and install large shelves in front of the kitchen window. Not only does open shelving provide storage for dishes and glassware, it’s a great place for houseplants to thrive.5Try a Moody HueEmily Hart Photography6Make the Most of a Galley KitchenSara Ligorria-TrampGalley kitchens are long and narrow with cabinets lining both sides of the room. Although they tend to get a bad rap (some say they feel crammed), they can make cooking a breeze since all of your cabinets are within reach. Here, interior designer Julia Chasman makes this small space feel elegant with green cabinets and gold fixtures. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7DIY a Kitchen IslandA Piece of RainbowHere’s a crafty solution if you’re remodeling on a budget. Starting with simple base cabinets, this blogger built a rolling kitchen island with a butcher block countertop. Plus, she paints it a bright green that serves as a pop of color. Get the tutorial at A Piece of Rainbow »8Maximize Wall SpaceSara Ligorria-Tramp9Sneak in Extra ShelvingREFORMThe end of this galley kitchen presented the perfect place to tuck in shelves under the window. Here, REFORM opts for baby blue cabinets and puts blue dinnerware on display to double as decor.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below10Take a Maximalist ApproachBrian WoodcockGo with over-the-top patterns, colors, rugs and decorative accents. Piling it on with purpose will help your space feel cozy, not overwhelmed when properly executed. 11Add Corner ShelvesLauren Pressey 12Highlight an Open LayoutTaylor Architectural PhotographyThe work of John McClain Design, this small kitchen is also a dining room and living room — and, yet it feels super spacious and sophisticated. Two small bistro tables near the sofa provide additional dining space. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below13Stick With One Color Stoffer Photography for Jean Stoffer Design14Hide the FridgeBoxwood Avenue15Create the Illusion of More SpaceDesign by Jess Bunge; Photo by Sara TrampAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below16Make the Most of Kitchen CornersMonica WangLearn to work with the space you have by capitalizing on every nook and corner. If your actual kitchen is small, there may be a small crevice or awkward nook that can be reworked into additional kitchen space. 17Bring in a Dining TableArnt HaugDue to the placement of a back door, this kitchen is split in two parts, leaving a lot of open floor space. It’s the perfect opportunity to bring in a small dining set. 18Mount a Metal RackArt StreiberSkip a decorative backsplash and hang this metal rack instead. Attach metal hooks to hang pots, pans, pitchers, cutting boards and other cooking must-haves.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below19Steal From Vintage KitchensAvery Nicole PhotographyFrom the butcher block countertop and moody green cabinets to the cafe curtains and glass pendant light, this small kitchen — designed by Sarah Stacey — is packed with vintage charm and character.20Keep It ClassicPair classic horizontal subway tile with a creamy, all-white palette to nail a classic look. For a little drama, choose geometric flooring tile. Amanda Garrity is a lifestyle writer and editor with over seven years of experience, including five years on staff at Good Housekeeping, where she covered all things home and holiday, including the latest interior design trends, inspiring DIY ideas and gift guides for any (and every) occasion. She also has a soft spot for feel-good TV, so you can catch her writing about popular shows like Virgin River, Sweet Magnolias, Hallmark Channel’s When Calls the Heart and more. 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