Home Ideas

One of my least favorite parts about cleaning the house is how dirty I seem to get in the process. No matter how hard I try to avoid it, some form of dirt, whether it’s soap scum from the shower or grease from the stovetop, always finds its way onto my skin. While I generally enjoy the satisfaction that comes from cleaning, I’m always looking for easier (and ironically, cleaner) ways to get the job done. So when I got my hands on an electric spin scrubber, I was eager to try it out on the most stubborn surfaces in my apartment. What is an electric cleaning brush? HOTO Electric Spin ScrubberCredit: HOTOAn electric cleaning brush is a handheld device with a rotating head that breaks down grime. The scrubber usually comes with several different attachments made specifically for tackling various areas of the house — bathroom tiles, greasy stovetops and even tile floors. Because the tool spins with the push of a button, it eliminates a lot of the dirty work (literally) that comes along with scrubbing and cleaning stubborn dirt and debris. I tested the HOTO Electric Spin Scrubber, which was rated the best overall pick by our Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab. It’s $100 on Amazon right now. It comes with six brush head attachments and an extension rod for cleaning the floor and other hard-to-reach places. After trying it for myself, I can see why it scored so well in versatility and grime removal.More WinnersWhat I cleaned with my spin scrubber I decided to use a few different brushes while cleaning my apartment. I tried the small flat brush for my sink, the sponge pad for my mirror and both the large flat brush and pointed brush for my bathroom wall tiles and grout. To switch between attachments, all I had to do was unlock the head by pressing down the buttons on each side. Bathroom sinkThe first spot I tackled was my bathroom sink. It had a dull look, especially around the drain, due to soap scum build-up. I attached the small flat brush, sprayed some all-purpose cleaner and went at it. Laura MillarLaura MillarI guided the brush toward the dirty area, applied some pressure and the scrubber did the rest. It did a really good job of getting into the crevices, too. After about 30 seconds of focusing on the drain, it started to glisten again. I then scrubbed the rest of my sink, which only took a couple minutes. MirrorNext up was the bathroom mirror. I sprayed it, attached the sponge head to my scrubber and made my way from one side to the other. Laura MillarThe sponge glided across the mirror effortlessly, eliminating all fingerprints, toothpaste residue and water spots in an instant. Afterwards, I wiped it down for a sparkling finish. Related StoryWall tiles and groutI had been avoiding cleaning my wall tiles since the last time I tried and ultimately failed to get them to the level of cleanliness I desired. That being said, I was honestly pretty doubtful that the scrubber would be able to really get into the creases and crevices once and for all. I attached the pointed brush head and made my way through the grout. Laura MillarLaura MillarI prepared myself to spend hours on my bathroom wall, so when the scrubber got rid of the yellowing grout in just a few minutes, I was shocked. Not only did it get the job done, it saved me what could have been hours of manual labor. All I did was hold the scrubber in my hands and push between the cracks. The bottom lineIt’s normal to have go-to cleaning habits. If you’ve never used an electric spin scrubber, you might be hesitant to incorporate it into your cleaning routine. However, I guarantee that you’re doing more dirty work than you need to be without it. I know I definitely was. To say I’m pleased with the device would be understatement. It completely transformed the way I think about cleaning, especially when it comes to the areas I dread the most. If it’s even possible, I think I’m looking forward to the next time my bathroom tiles need a little bit of sparkling — and that’s saying something. 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

To earn the Good Housekeeping Seal, these Simonton window models were put through the wringer. After assessing the brand’s 5500 Collection Double Hung Window, DaylightMax Collection Horizontal Sliding Window, 6200 Collection Horizontal Sliding Window, and 6500 Collection Double Hung Window in the lab, home improvement & outdoor director Dan DiClerico and his team were impressed by the stylish designs, reliable performance, energy efficiency and brand legacy. Watch the video above and read on to learn more about these windows.Stellar DesignSimonton windows come in a variety of exterior and interior colors to match any architectural style or interior vibe. Additional hardware and grille options offer dozens of combinations, so every homeowner can find their ideal look.Standout PerformanceUpon review by the Good Housekeeping Institute, the windows proved great at protecting against air and water infiltration. Operations tests confirmed the durability of the fusion-welded frames, and the utility of features like the tilt-in sashes that make the units easy to clean.Deep Energy SavingsWindows don’t just impact your home’s curb appeal — they also affect its energy efficiency. Simonton units feature dual-pane insulating glass with low-E coatings and argon-gas fill. This lets them do a great job of keeping warm air inside during cold weather and cool air inside during the summer. Brand ReliabilitySimonton Windows & Doors boasts 75 years of experience in the field, and it stands behind the quality and craftsmanship of its windows, offering a lifetime limited warranty on residential installations should any issues arise.Sarah Strong is a Food & Drink editor for branded content at Hearst. Her special skills include watching more television in a week than there are hours in a week, tap dancing, archery, boy band trivia and bargain hunting. You can follow her on Instagram at @feedsstrong to see where she’s eating, what she’s reading and which sneakers she’s wearing. More

Modern and minimalist design reigned supreme for years, but now homeowners are leaning toward traditional styles in 2025 — especially in the kitchen. Think earthy paint colors, natural stone countertops, warm wood cabinetry and charming details, like millwork and statement light fixtures. The style, popular from the 1980s to the early 2000s, is seeing a resurgence as homeowners crave warm and comfortable interiors. One in seven homeowners — 14% — are choosing traditional style for their renovated kitchens, according to the 2025 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, which is more popular than modern and contemporary aesthetics. More on the downfall of minimalism”In conversations with design and remodeling pros, we’ve heard repeated references to homeowners requesting spaces with personality, character and unique designs,” says Mitchell Parker, a senior editor at Houzz. “Many elements of a traditional-style kitchen meet those needs, offering a formal and yet comfortable ambiance.”To understand the shift toward traditional style, I spoke to five design experts and they all agreed: Traditional kitchen design is making a strong comeback. “My clients seem to be craving a timeless and classic look, because the market is a bit oversaturated with mid-century modern and minimalist styles — it’s beautiful, but it’s everywhere,” says Sondra Zabroske, an architect at Four Brothers Design + Build. Laura Metzler Photography”Homeowners are after interiors that feel more curated and layered,” says Cathleen Gruver of Gruver Cooley Interiors. Think visual elements like rich wood, interesting cabinetry panels and unique hardware.”I’ve noticed that minimalistic kitchens are no longer topping homeowners’ wishlists,” agrees designer Jeff Andrews. “Instead, there’s a growing preference for designs rooted in tradition — spaces that are not only functional, but reflect individual lifestyles. A kitchen with a more traditional feel makes complete sense with the way we are living at home today.” Why are homeowners leaning toward traditional style?No longer are homeowners seeking perfectly curated interiors — instead, they’re drawn to personalized spaces. “This shift is driven by three key factors: comfort and familiarity, timeless appeal and a reaction against the starkness of minimalism,” says Rebecca Roberts, founder and principal designer at Method + Moxie. “For many Gen Xers and Millennials, traditional kitchens evoke a sense of home,” Roberts adds. “While no one is longing for the laminate cabinets and harvest tones of decades past, today’s take on tradition blends classic elements with a refined, modern sensibility.”Design: Lynn Holender Design; Photo: Kerry Kirk PhotographyTraditional kitchens are all about the details. “There’s a bit of embellishment or adornment everywhere you look — from arches and ceiling beams to furniture-style islands and custom range hoods,” says Parker.With its timeless appeal, traditional style favors rich architectural details over clean lines. “From elegant cabinetry and intricate moldings to warm color palettes and high-quality materials, traditional design blends sophistication with a lived-in feel that makes a house truly feel like home,” says Steve Gold, real estate broker and star of Selling the City.Above all else, homeowners are seeking timeless interiors — especially when investing in a kitchen remodel — and traditional style is a great choice. “We know from Houzz research that more than seven in 10 homeowners cite cost-effectiveness in the long run as the leading motivator for making sustainable choices during kitchen upgrades,” says Parker.What’s Trending in Home DesignAlyssa 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

The kitchen might be the heart, soul and stomach of the home, but it’s one room that also demands meticulous planning and organization. After all, when you have so many pots, pans and appliances, every square inch counts. Many people make the most of their kitchen’s space by installing cabinets that extend all the way up to the ceiling, but lately? Designers reveal they’re deprioritizing upper cabinets. “In recent projects, I’ve found creative ways to avoid them,” designer Stephanie Mahaney reveals. “Upper cabinets can feel very clunky and can make the below countertop space feel messy because of the shadow it creates.” While upper cabinets can make your kitchen appear top-heavy, removing them will imbue a light, airy attitude to your space. “Going without upper cabinets makes a kitchen feel larger and allows for the placement of more windows and natural light,” adds Jeanne Barber of Camden Grace Interiors in West Hartford, Connecticut. Design: Stephanie Martin; Photography: MJay PhotographyThough upper cabinets have been a status quo storage solution, their absence might be confusing, if not shocking for some homeowners. However, designers insist this phenomenon represents a larger shift in kitchen design—one that was several years in the making. “I’m seeing a lot of kitchens being designed to not look so ‘kitcheny,'” explains Hillary Cohen of HCO Interiors. “People are focusing on the aesthetics of the space, and the room is almost being viewed as an extension of the living room.” When the shelter-in-place went into effect nearly five years ago, people were invited to get reacquainted with their kitchens. Suddenly, the room wasn’t just a place where you would reheat last night’s takeout order or fill up your water bottle: It became an integral part our lives. Here, we experimented with sourdough starters, made mocktails for virtual happy hours and even transformed our kitchen islands into an impromptu home office. As our kitchen became more integral in our lives, so did our need to decorate them with care.Not only can ditching upper cabinets make the space lighter, brighter and more enjoyable to spend time in, but it’s also an excellent opportunity to inject personality into your culinary quarters. “It should reflect who you are, not just how you cook,” explains Canadian designer Stephanie Martin. “Adding in items of sentiment and art, or openly displaying a beautiful collection of serveware feels immensely more elevated and personal than monotonous upper cabinetry.” Or, for an idea that mixes form and function, you can install sconces or task lighting to give the room a gorgeous glow. Design: Inside Stories; Photography: Eric Lucero PhotographyAesthetics aside, designers reveal that there are plenty of practical perks to ditching those lofted cabinets. Thanks to small-yet-thoughtful upgrades—Miranda Cullen of Inside Stories credits deep drawers and tiered, roll-out shelves—nobody has to get on their tip-toes to grab a plate or coffee mug. “They required us to stretch, climb countertops or stand on chairs just to access everyday items like dinnerware,” Cullen shares. “This functional evolution shifts the ‘heavy lifting’ to the lower cabinets, freeing up upper cabinets to take on a simpler design—or be omitted entirely.” Should upper cabinets stay or should they go? Designer Grey Joyner says it ultimately depends your kitchen’s size and layout. “For homes where storage is at a premium, eliminating upper cabinets might sacrifice practicality for style,” she says. Meanwhile, Jen Stevens of Dallas-based design firm Fonde Interiors argues removing upper cabinets doesn’t mean you have to lose out on storage space. “It’s about creating opportunities for thoughtful design,” she says. “There’s something distinctly European about this approach, where every element is considered and celebrates craftsmanship.”Many designers are trading upper cabinets for full-length pantries, though Barber notes a vintage armoire can also work. If you’re willing to dust them regularly, Barber says shallow open shelves are a great place to hold everyday bowls, plates and glasses. “It makes reaching for them a breeze since there’s no door to open,” she adds.However, just because we’re seeing fewer upper cabinets doesn’t mean they’re gone for good. For designer Brianna Scott, it’s all about creating a thoughtful balance. “I don’t think upper cabinets will ever be non-existent, but the style and placement of them are changing,” she says. “People love to collect things, especially kitchen items, and they need a hidden space to store them.”Instead, Scott recommends a mix of open and closed storage will create a space that’s “functional yet open and not filled with a ton of millwork.” Let’s be honest: When every square inch counts, a little bit of creativity can go a long way.More Kitchen Design InspirationKelsey 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

If there’s one spot in the house that would benefit from a decluttering session, it’s the home office. Not only does a mess-free office look better, it can also increase work productivity. However, cleaning up this space is easier said than done, according to pro organizers.”Home offices can be one of the most cluttered spots in the house,” says Tracy McCubbin, founder of dClutterfly. “This is partly due to the fact that when people are in their offices, they’re focused on work and not clutter. Then, once they clock off for the day, they don’t want to go back in and declutter.”While gaining the motivation to get back in there after a long day of work can be a challenge, we’re here to make it a bit easier. Below, professional organizers share the top things to throw out ASAP for a decluttered, stress-free work space. declutter with usOld Papers, Manuals and Tax Filesfstop123//Getty ImagesLet’s face it, we’ve all saved an old computer manual or two ‘just in case’ we might desperately need it at some point in the future. However, that day never seems to come, and before you know it, there’s an ever-growing pile of manuals in a drawer or on your desk that hasn’t been touched for years. Organizers agree that old papers — including manuals and tax files you no longer need — should be the first to go. “If it can be found online or hasn’t been referenced in the last year, it’s time to part ways. That printer manual from 2014 isn’t exactly a collector’s item,” says Jennifer Johnson of The Orderly Space. Outdated ElectronicsIf you find yourself surrounded by technology that no longer serves you, assess what you really need on a day-to-day basis. Maybe you’ve abandoned your monitor and only use your laptop now or maybe you’re holding onto a bulky mouse and keyboard you’ve since replaced — regardless of what it is, chances are it should be recycled.”So many offices are clogged with outdated electronics. Machines we used but don’t use anymore — monitors, cassette players, typewriters — don’t serve a purpose and are taking up valuable real estate,” says McCubbin.Random Cordsrobert reader//Getty ImagesCollecting random cords and cables without even realizing you’re doing it is not uncommon. Everyone seems to have that one drawer filled with a bunch of useless wires they’re too afraid to throw away — but they’re often doing more harm than good. “Cables and chargers that don’t match current devices only create confusion, not convenience,” says Beata Kozlowski of Tidy Step by Step. If you’re holding on to them because you think you might need one of them one day, McCubbin has some advice: “I can guarantee you that if (and that’s a BIG if) you find the machine that needs that mystery cord, you’ll be able to buy a new one cheap off eBay.” Dried Markers and PensThis one might seem pretty simple, but we’ve all held onto dried-out pens and markers because we’re too lazy to actually sort through them. Avoid the future frustration of picking up a pen that doesn’t work by getting ahead of the game. “Test them, toss the ones that don’t work and keep only what you truly need,” says Johnson. Excess Office SuppliesNora Carol Photography//Getty ImagesThere’s no reason to stock up on items you rarely use. While you might think you need a huge pile of binder clips, you’d be surprised how far just a couple will take you. “Toss excess office supplies you don’t use — such as bulky calculators (use the one on your phone), bulk rubber bands, paperclips or any other items you barely use,” says Holly Blakey of Breathing Room. Promotional “Swag”Who doesn’t love free stuff? While it’s fun to get ‘swag’ from company events or conferences, all that stuff can build up pretty quickly. Organizers agree on the importance of staying on top of your free merch. “That conference tote bag from 2018? It’s likely just taking up space rather than serving a purpose,” says Johnson. If you do find yourself using these items from time to time, try moving them to their correct spots, whether that’s the closet for a tote or the kitchen for a reusable bottle. And if not, donate them to a local charity or shelter. BooksOlena Ruban//Getty ImagesOrganizers acknowledge that this can be a tough one. Getting rid of books you once were so motivated to read but haven’t gotten to years and years later can definitely lead to a bit of guilt. However, there’s only so much time in the day and there are so many wonderful books — it makes sense why you can’t get to them all!”The top items people should get rid of in home offices are things like books that haven’t been read (and won’t be read) or books that you read once and know you won’t reach for again,” says Emily Mass of Spaces by Emily.Now, we’re not saying you should donate all the books you haven’t gotten to yet. Make a point to sit down and sort through those you really want to read and the ones you no longer feel passionate about. And if you’re not sure about some, donate them to a friend or family member so you know they won’t be gone forever. 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

Compost bins are varied. They can live inside or outside; they can be big or small. They can look like a trash can or like something you’d pull Bingo numbers from. They can make use of probiotic additives or be enhanced by worms. Here’s what to consider when shopping, depending on your needs:✔️ Indoor vs. outdoor: Think about what you’ll be composting most — and where you want to keep the bin. If you’ll be focusing on garden and yard waste, you’ll want to keep your bin outside. But if you’ll be composting mostly food scraps, you can keep a small bin in the kitchen. A smaller bin can help to prevent odors since it will require regular emptying. An indoor countertop or under-sink model is likely best for those who want to store food waste prior to taking it to a compost drop-off. But if you want to empty less frequently — or to mix yard and food waste — consider an outdoor bin.✔️ Material: Compost bins are generally made of plastic, metal or wood. If you’re going to keep your bin outside, it needs to be weather-resistant. Metal is a good choice, as it will withstand the seasons and combat pests, but it can be heavy. Plastic will be lighter and works both indoors and outdoors, but extreme weather could cause it to crack or warp over time. Wood can blend into outdoor spaces nicely, but it can house pests and rot if not properly cared for.✔️ Seal: Compost bins with tight-fitting lids will help contain odors, which is essential for indoor bins but is also beneficial with outdoor bins, as it makes it less likely that it will attract animals. A tight seal will also deter any rodents or pests that are curious about the bin even when scent is minimized. But you do want a bin that opens with ease. Tumbling bins in particular need smoothly opening lids so that you don’t merely rotate the bin when you try to lift or slide the lid.✔️ Filters: Some indoor models rely solely on a sealed lid to prevent odors, but many include a filter. Look for removable filters that can either be washed or replaced. It’s a bonus if your version includes replacement filters with the purchase of the bin.✔️ Electric: Electric models are the newest kid on the block. They use heat (and possibly the addition of an enzyme tablet) to break down food waste quickly. They also have a mechanism for stirring or grinding the heated waste, which reduces the volume considerably, so you won’t have to empty it as often. You’ll want to consider the footprint of the unit when shopping, as the current models are generally larger than non-electric compost bins. However, they are likely to have a removable inner basket that you can store on the countertop or under your sink while the electric unit lives elsewhere — but you’ll want to make sure the basket has a lid (for example, the Lomi does not, so it’s best stored in the main unit).✔️ Bags: Many bins are designed to keep compost bags in place, but it’s worth noting that some compostable bags will not break down in a home-composting environment. They require the higher temperatures reached more commonly in large-scale environments or municipal facilities. If you’re composting at home, it’s a good idea to avoid bags. If you want or need to use them, do some research to make sure yours will break down under home-composting conditions.✔️ Tumbling vs. stationary: Compost bins come in two general styles: tumbling and stationary. Turning and stirring your waste helps it break down more quickly, and tumbling bins make this task a cinch: They feature a side crank or the ability to spin a drum to help you mix your waste. All tumblers are elevated enough to spin, but many are high enough to provide the bonus benefit of being harder for animals to invade. Stationary bins are stand-alone canisters that require mixing by hand. That said, if you are taking your scraps to a drop-off point or a city collection, you won’t need to do as much compost maintenance, making stationary models a good choice. ✔️ Worms: Worm composting, or vermicomposting, is extremely efficient. Worms break down organic material while living in the wild: You’re just bringing the natural instincts of worms into a controlled environment. Worm composting is a great choice for those doing indoor composting because it controls odor well. (It can also be done outdoors if the climate is worm-friendly — about 55˚F to 77˚F for the common red wiggler worm.) One difference between traditional and vermicomposting is that worm composting does not require turning, so it’s a fairly hands-off way to compost. Worms love food scrap, so it’s a good solution for those looking to reduce their kitchen waste. But be sure to look for a worm-specific design (none of those on our list are suitable): You’ll need the right ventilation and room for the worms to migrate within the bin to the food. More

If there’s anyone who knows the ins and outs of home renovation, it’s real estate investor and HGTV star Tarek El Moussa. Known for hit shows like Flip or Flop and The Flipping El Moussas, Tarek has years of experience transforming distressed properties into forever homes. In his latest television adventure, The Flip Off, Tarek pairs up with his wife, Heather Rae El, Moussa in a house-flipping competition against his ex, Christina Haack. The reward? Ultimate bragging rights and a first-class vacation paid for by the loser. While the stakes certainly add a bit of humor to the series, the real focus is on all things renovation.With all his years of flipping houses, it’s no surprise El Moussa has learned a thing or two about what to do (and what not to do) when preparing for a remodel. We spoke to him about his top renovation mistakes, what to know before hiring a contractor and his most important piece of advice for homeowners. More HGTVTarek’s Top Renovation MistakesCourtesy of HGTVNot asking for all the details. The process of getting a quote from a contractor might seem pretty simple, but El Moussa warns there are many details to consider before signing a contract. “People don’t get details from the contractors and subcontractors of the work that’s to be done. An example of that is a bathroom remodel — $30,000 right? But does $30,000 include labor? Does that include material? What is the budget per foot for the material? Who’s paying for the grout? In estimates themselves, it needs to be very, very detailed,” says El Moussa. If you’re not 100% sure what’s included in the price, don’t be afraid to ask your contractor. The more detail, the better. Paying the contractor ahead of schedule. 10255185_880//Getty ImagesOnce you make the decision to renovate, you’re forced to place all of your trust in your contractor. And if you’ve done the right research, you should be comfortable doing that. However, there’s one thing you should avoid at all costs.”Never pay the contractor ahead of schedule. And 99.9% of contractors are going to try to get paid ahead of schedule, and the second you do that, you lose all control and all power. The only control a homeowner has is the payment,” says El Moussa. “They’ve got to hold that payment until they see that work done.”Not having everything in writing.Sometimes what you’re asking for might not be clear to a contractor. To make sure you’re both on the same page, double check that everything you’re paying for is in writing. El Moussa has personal experience dealing with this mistake after purchasing a high-end ocean view home a couple years ago. “I hired a company to fix the foundation. They charged me — I think it was around $100,000 — and they fixed it. Then, I looked and the entire house was crooked,” says El Moussa. “When I called the foundation company, they said they secured and fixed the foundation. They never said they were going to level the house, and that was an additional cost. I ended up having to spend way more money to get that fixed, because in writing, I didn’t have all the details.”Living in the construction zone. Ed Bock//Getty ImagesYes, moving out of your house isn’t the most ideal situation. But if you’re in the midst of an extensive renovation, it’s best to let the contractor do their job. “If someone’s doing a big remodel, I’m a big believer in moving out of the house,” says El Moussa. “The contractor will get it done faster, the work will be better and life will be much easier. I’ve lived in construction zones. That’s not a lot of fun.”Being unaware of what you’re liable for. El Moussa learned a valuable lesson on liability while working on the second house he ever flipped. After hiring a general contractor, remodeling the house and driveway, he ran into an issue with one of his contractor’s subcontractors. “It turns out the contractor I hired, hired a company to do the driveway. I hired the contractor, I paid him. The contractor hired the company to do the driveway, but he never paid them. In the end, because I own the house, somehow I was liable, and I had to pay off that lien because I couldn’t contact the contractor. He disappeared,” says El Moussa. Although it might not seem like your job, take it upon yourself to make sure your contractor is reliable. Sinenkiy//Getty ImagesWhat to Know Before Hiring a ContractorIf you’re not at the renovation stage just yet but are searching for a trustworthy contractor, El Moussa recommends researching the following:Past work: Whether you ask them directly or search on their site, make sure you think their work is up to your standards.Former clients: Read testimonials closely! If you know a former client personally, that’s even better. Reach out for all of the details about their experience. How long they’ve been in business: Years of work reflects experience, skill and reputation. The Bottom LineWhen it comes down to it, all of these tips — securing a qualified contractor you can trust, signing a detailed contract, knowing exactly what you’re getting — stem from one simple yet major piece of advice. “You have to ask the tough questions,” says El Moussa. “People are terrified to ask the tough questions, and if you don’t ask them, you’re going to end up hurting yourself in the end.” 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

Not every couple would be willing to purchase a 133-year-old house and embark on a complete gut renovation. However, when Laura Kim and Chip Newton discovered a charming row house in the historic Georgetown neighborhood in Washington. D.C., they just couldn’t pass up the opportunity to breathe life into it. The seven-bedroom house had been poorly renovated multiple times since its original construction in 1891. The homeowners, who split their time between D.C. and Florida, wanted to reconfigure the layout and maximize space while paying homage to the property’s rich history. For help, the pair tapped the team at BarnesVanze Architects and interior designer Maria Pollard of Crosby Design. “The home had the square footage they needed and they saw the potential,” says Stefan Hurray, associate at BVA BarnesVanze Architects. Much of the interior was repaired and rebuilt, including walls that separated rooms on the first floor. “At one point, the townhouse may have been used as apartments,” says Hurray. “We attempted to rebuild what we believe would have been the original floor plan, but with larger openings between rooms, so there would be a more modern flow.”Pollard worked closely with the homeowners to furnish and decorate the home, weaving in their personal antiques and collection of artwork. “Every room features a mix of vintage, antique and custom-made pieces, creating a balanced and collected look,” she says. Step inside this historic abode to admire every detail.Entry Nick JohnsonReminiscent of what’s to come, the home’s entryway features a seamless blend of vintage and modern. “Halfway through construction, the foyer felt a little plain — Maria had the idea to install wainscoting, which adds a nice detail to the room,” says Hurray. An abstract design — Phillip Jeffries Collage in Awakening Blue — on the upper walls and a beaded chandelier further elevate the space. Living RoomNick JohnsonEnter a modern living room where curved bay windows welcome a surge of natural light. In an effort to honor the home’s history, the team draws focus to the historic fireplace and recreates plaster moldings. “During construction in the living room, we found a piece of the original plaster crown molding, so we recreated it on the entire first floor,” says Hurray.Courtesy of BVA BarnesVanze ArchitectsBEFORE: An all-white interior showcasing the original fireplace.The walls are painted a creamy beige and the space is filled with a mix of antique and modern furniture. The large front windows are dressed with floral drapes, while a statement fixture is hung in the center of the room. “The art over the living room fireplace is a piece from the homeowner’s collection — it fit beautifully into the design,” says Pollard. Previously, the living room had a built-in bookshelf next to the fireplace. It was removed to create a more spacious interior. Recessed lighting was also removed.Dining Room Nick JohnsonCourtesy of BVA BarnesVanze ArchitectsBEFORE: A tiled fireplace surround showcases an ’80s style.From statement lighting to large-scale art, the details are what bring this dining room to life. “Art adds so much personality to a home, and this one is no exception,” says Pollard. “The large painting in the dining room, which I found through a dealer in Washington, D.C., is a vintage piece. The Hunt Slonem artwork above the dining room fireplace was part of the client’s collection.” Pollard installs a textured wallpaper on the ceiling — “the subtle pattern glistens a little bit, so it picks up the natural light,” says Hurray. The decorative fireplace, previously surrounded by ceramic tile, also received a subtle facelift. “We didn’t want to compete with the living room fireplace — which is roughly 10 feet away, so we did a simple plaster mold that feels classic, but quieter.”Powder RoomA tiny half bath is adorned with a hand-painted Chinoiserie wallcovering — Fromental Rainerri — and a black marble sink that extends to the floor. The wall is angled, as is the mirror and marble slabs, on each side of the sink to create an illusion of a larger space. “It’s hard to tell, but the sink is only about 9 inches deep — the angled mirror reflects light and helps to open up the space,” says Hurray. Nick Johnson KitchenNick JohnsonCourtesy of BVA BarnesVanze ArchitectsBEFORE: Wood cabinetry is paired with granite countertops. Two-inch wide oak flooring, which is what would have been used when the house was built, brightens up the kitchen. “We added in windows for more natural light and removed an elevator from the 1970s, adding so much space to the kitchen,” says Hurray. New cabinetry and trim is painted in Benjamin Moore’s Ice Fog, a gray with blue and green undertones. A white marble countertop and backsplash replaces what used to be outdated granite and stone tiles. Breakfast NookNick JohnsonFolding glass doors open this simple breakfast nook to the scenic backyard, which is home to an ancient tree. “A lot of care was taken during construction to not disturb the tree roots or hurt this beautiful tree in any way,” says Hurray. To complete the space, Pollard installs a patterned wallpaper on the ceiling and hangs a shiny gold chandelier. Primary BedroomNick JohnsonLocated directly above the living room, the primary bedroom shares the same curved windows — “they fill the room with natural light and create a cozy, inviting spot for conversation,” says Pollard. As for the calming color palette of soft blues and creamy neutrals, Pollard says her intention was to “evoke a sense of modernity” while considering the home’s history. Guest BedroomsNick JohnsonNick JohnsonStep into the smallest of the bedrooms, which had some quirky angles and an awkward alcove that the homeowners requested become a built-in bookshelf. “The space is so cozy — it’s kind of my favorite bedroom,” says Hurray. Facing the back of the house, another guest room is defined by a wall of geometric curtains. Since the home is located in a historic district, the architect team wasn’t allowed to move certain windows. The floor-length curtains distract from the fact that the bedroom window isn’t centered on the wall — “it brings a little bit of light and whimsy,” says Hurray.See More of Our Favorite HomesAlyssa 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