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Garden arbors are gaining popularity again for their cozy, vintage feel.Landscape designers weigh in on why they’re trending, plus share installation tips. Homeowners are becoming more and more interested in expanding their indoor living space into their yards—think dreamy outdoor kitchens, she sheds, and tiny homes with all the bells and whistles. One of the more simple ways to embrace outdoor living? A well-thought-out garden.While plant parents and gardeners alike are experimenting with garden trends like chaos gardening and square foot gardening when deciding what exactly to grow in their outdoor sanctuaries, there are plenty of design-related decisions to be made as well.Considering the resurgence of vintage features in interior design, it only makes sense that homeowners are carrying some of those elements into their garden—specifically the cozy, lived-in feel so many people are after these days. The result? The revival of the garden arbor.To learn more about the trend, we asked landscape designers for their input. Read on for more about their rise in popularity and tips for installation. What Is a Garden Arbor?LisaIson//Getty ImagesIf you’ve never heard of a garden arbor before, think of it as a structural entryway made with two or four posts and a slatted roof.”We often use them as entrances to gardens, designing small arbors or trellises to serve as symbolic gateways. They also provide a beautiful framework for climbing roses, vines, and other plants—and they’re perfect for hanging lights to add a touch of charm and ambience,” says Joe Richardson of Richardson & Associates.The Trend, ExplainedArbors have always been a common garden feature, but there are a couple major reasons they’re gaining popularity again. For one, the integration of indoor and outdoor living is more apparent than ever post-pandemic. “There is great demand and value associated with open space. We see an increasing demand for outdoor living and entertaining space in the form of al fresco dining, covered cabanas, and outdoor kitchens. People want to be outdoors. With thoughtful design, these spaces can be functional, protected, and well-connected with the home,” says Ryan McDaniel, partner and director of design of Brandon Architects.Carol Yepes//Getty ImagesNot only do homeowners crave a connected outdoor space, they want it to match the vibe of their interior design style. Nowadays, with the rising popularity of “cozy” design trends—think café core and the Nancy Meyers aesthetic—garden arbors fit the bill. Successful looks are covered in beautiful vines and roses, adding to the natural ambience of the garden while simultaneously offering a comfortable, sheltered area. You can even string a few lights for added charm. “Cozy and naturalistic cottage gardens are currently trending and the charm of garden arbors ties into that trend,” says Patricia Benner of Benner Landscape Design.Tips for Installing a Garden ArborStacy Zarin Goldberg 2025If you want to get in on this vintage garden trend, consider these pro tips before choosing your design. ✔️ Consider what to grow: “Different plants have different climbing habits—some use tendrils to grip, others twine around supports, and some may need to be tied or trained. Understanding how your chosen plant anchors itself will directly influence the arbor’s structure,” says Richardson.✔️ Select the proper structure: Once you decide what you want to plant, evaluate what structure will work best. “Heavy or woody vines like wisteria require a much sturdier frame than lighter climbers like clematis. The spacing of slats, the height of the arbor, and the materials used should all be tailored to support the growth pattern, weight, and long-term needs of the plant. Ultimately, the plant and the arbor work together—each one shaping the success and visual impact of the other,” says Richardson. ✔️ Embrace your home’s architectural style: “The design should be reflective of the garden ecology and complement the architecture of the home,” says McDaniel. Choose colors and materials for your arbor that match your home’s exterior for a cohesive look. More Gardening IdeasLaura 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
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Homeowners are embracing clutter with the latest design trend. Cluttercore encourages intentional clutter that tells a story, and designers are loving it.Design pros explain the trend, plus how to pull it off successfully.What constitutes a beautiful home is different for everyone. For some, it’s a tidy and organized space with perfectly curated rooms. For others, it’s one that feels lived-in, with personal touches scattered throughout. Regardless of your design style, there’s one thing that’s impossible to avoid altogether: clutter. While some might be better than others at keeping it away, every homeowner struggles with it from time to time.So what if we told you there’s a design trend that actually allows you to embrace clutter in your home for stylistic purposes? That’s right—it’s called cluttercore, and designers actually approve. What Is Cluttercore?Cluttercore is all about intentional clutter. The trend encourages homeowners to scatter about collections of knick knacks and pieces that make them smile. Think of it as embracing your inner child through your home decor. “Cluttercore is a trend that focuses on surrounding yourself with sentimental decor. While it’s similar to maximalism, there’s a push for the items to have a story and a meaning behind them. We’re all living in a constant state of stress and uneasiness, and I think everyone is seeking comfort. While there’s not a lot we can control, we can control how we feel in our homes,” says Rachel Mae Smith, author of Colorful Living.Still, it’s important to note that although “clutter” is in the name, the trend isn’t about leaving random items all over the house. Think windowsills filled with meaningful trinkets or shelves with several pieces of related artwork. Related StoryKey CharacteristicsHere are a few of the most important characteristics of the cluttercore design trend, according to designers. Layered shelves: “When I picture cluttercore, I see shelves layered with books and trinkets,” says Cathryn Lindsey of Cathryn Lindsey Design. Embrace all of your favorite things at once, layering them in one space to create a design that tells a story. Floor-to-ceiling design: Don’t be afraid to go all out—that means gallery walls that extend from floor to ceiling or bookshelves filled to the brim with novels, trinkets, and photos.Curated collections: “Maybe it’s a collection of shells you’ve been keeping from vacations over the years or the flower paintings you look for every time you go to an antique shop. Regardless of what you collect, find a place for it in your home and display it together,” says Smith. Curated maximalism: Embrace maximalist design features like mixed patterns and layered art in a way that’s meaningful to you. “It’s not about piling on stuff to be trendy, but layering in pieces that hold meaning—treasures from travels, favorite artwork, or collections you’ve built over time,” says Heather French of French & French Interiors.Related StoryTips From the Pros Before you go ahead and embrace the clutter, make sure to consider these pro tips. Mismatchedhome.blog✔️ Collect over time: “Build your space over time rather than buying everything at once. Collect vintage artwork from thrift stores or a painting from each vacation,” says Lindsey.✔️ Think outside the box: “Maybe you can display your vintage plate collection as wall art or frame your grandma’s collection of doilies to make a gallery wall,” says Smith.✔️ Spread it out: “Instead of cramming everything into a curio cabinet, try featuring collections throughout your home—a cluster of small artworks in a hallway or vintage ceramics styled on a mantel,” says French.✔️ Embrace a lived-in home: “Cluttercore is a display of a life well lived. I think the Nancy Meyers trend was a spark of cluttercore because the characters in her movies lived interesting lives and their homes were a reflection of this,” says Smith.Related Story✔️ Don’t just fill up space: “For example, I gravitate towards antique French goods because I studied abroad in France. Those pieces feel more meaningful and connected to my story. That’s the secret to making cluttercore work. It’s less about filling space and more about surrounding yourself with items that reflect who you are,” says Lindsey.✔️ Plan ahead: “The trick is to have a dedicated space for your items before you pull everything out. Organization is important to make it not feel overwhelming,” says Smith.What’s Trending?Laura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates. More
Maybe you see that question and think to yourself, “Wait, I have to dethatch my lawn?” or even, “What the heck is dethatching?” Good questions! Let’s start there. Thatch is the dense layer of living and dead plant material that can build up over time between turfgrass and the underlying soil surface. If it gets thick enough, thatch can prevent water, air, and nutrients from reaching your lawn’s root system. Thatch also creates a haven for grubs, cinch bugs, and other pests.Dethatching, as you can probably now guess, is the process of removing this layer of decaying matter so that your lawn can breathe throughout the growing season.How often, and when, should I dethatch? In most cases, an annual dethatching is enough to keep a lawn healthy. Early fall is generally considered an ideal time, since dethatching should be done when the lawn is actively growing and able to withstand the aggressive scraping involved in the process. (Spring works too, but the open spaces in the lawn that result from dethatching are an invitation for crabgrass and other weeds.) It’s worth noting that a moderate layer of thatch (less than ¾ of an inch) will benefit the lawn by acting as an insulator against extreme temperatures; the cushion also reduces soil compaction in lawn’s that get a lot of foot traffic. Those are more reasons why dethatching the lawn just once a year is usually enough.How to dethatch the lawnFor small lawns, our experts in the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute recommend a dethatching rake. The manual tool works like a regular rake, with tines that are strong enough to pull the thatch away from the soil. For best results, reach for the dethatching rake right after you mow the lawn, so you don’t end up with long blades of grass getting stuck in the tines. Sun Joe Lawn Dethatcher & Scarifier Now 19% OffCredit: Sun Joe THE GROUNDSKEEPER II Dethatching Rake Credit: GROUNDSKEEPERWORX 14 Inch Corded Electric DethatcherCredit: WorxIf your lawn is more than a 1/4 acre, it’s worth renting or buying a mechanical dethatcher. Our roundup of best dethatchers includes several battery-powered machines that look and function much like a walk-behind lawn mower. Some of them perform other tasks, like aerating and scarifying the lawn — treatments that can also improve its overall health.How to prevent thatch from coming backTo prevent too much thatch from forming on your lawn, avoid overwatering, as this will impede the breakdown of organic material. A single inch of water per week is sufficient, ideally delivered in one long soaking, rather than short daily sips, which leads to shallow root systems that eventually end up as thatch. As noted above, aerating the lawn is another beneficial treatment, ideally done in the fall. Heavy-duty core aerators, available for rent from home centers, break up thatch by pulling small plugs of soil from the ground. The process also allows more air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the lawn’s root system.Remember that earthworms are a natural source of aeration that work better than any machine. They don’t like soil that’s too acidic, so you may need to add a layer of lime to bring the pH level up to between 6 and 7 on the 0 to 14 pH scale. This will also encourage the natural breakdown of organic matter by bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms. I’VE GOT MORE ADVICEHaving written thousands of product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations, Dan (he/him) brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his role as the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. A one-time roofer and a serial remodeler, Dan can often be found keeping house at his restored Brooklyn brownstone, where he lives with his wife and kids. More
While there are plenty of vintage design trends on the rise, there are some design pros feel should stay in the past.We spoke to several interior designers on the outdated design features they do not want to see make a comeback. Patterned wallpaper, antique mirrors, wooden accents—vintage design features are making a comeback in homes everywhere. Gone are the days of the all-white kitchen and the finely curated minimalist living room. Homeowners are embracing the “lived-in” look, and designers are loving it. While the resurgence of trends from decades past is an exciting opportunity to blend the old with the new, there are certain features designers say should not be brought into the modern home. So before you hop on the vintage train, read on for 9 outdated design features pros believe should stay in the past.Overly Coordinated SetsJuan Maria Coy Vergara//Getty ImagesOne or two pieces of vintage furniture can add charm to any room, but when there’s a few too many, the space might end up feeling outdated.”I love vintage ‘brown furniture,’ especially heirloom pieces that tell a story. But what I don’t love are overly coordinated sets—like a dining table, chairs, sideboard, and china cabinet all in the same finish, or a bedroom with a bed, nightstands, and dresser that perfectly match. A single vintage piece, or even two, can anchor a room beautifully and add character. But when everything matches, it quickly feels overdone and visually heavy,” says Meghan Jay of Meghan Jay Design.Tiled CountertopsHomeowners are embracing unique patterns and bold hues, making colored tiles an exciting choice. While they might be visually appealing on walls or floors, they might not be as practical on other surfaces, particularly countertops. “I’ve heard whispers of them making a comeback, and maybe—just maybe—they could work in a small powder bath. But in kitchens and full baths? They’re a cleaning nightmare. I lived with them in a house after college and can confirm: grout lines and daily use do not mix,” says Peggy Haddad of Peggy Haddad Interiors. Related StorySponge Paint Sure, we may have collectively taken a step back from the bland gray and white color scheme when it comes to home design, but if you’re hoping to embrace a new hue, stay away from sponge paint. “Faux finishes from the ’90s can stay in the archives. If you want texture and depth, limewash, plaster, or other artisanal wall treatments create a much more elevated look,” says Haddad.Popcorn CeilingsGarrett Unno//Getty ImagesPainted ceilings? In. Popcorn ceilings? Out—permanently. “Popcorn ceilings never make a comeback, and for good reason. They trap dust, flatten light, and lower the perceived value of a home the moment you walk in. Smooth, clean ceilings open up a room and let every design choice shine,” says Lauren Saab of Saab Studios.Related StoryCarpeted Bathrooms Rugs in all sorts of patterns and textures are welcome in a vintage-inspired home. However, carpet, especially in this space, is a no-go. “Carpet in bathrooms should stay firmly in the past. It holds moisture, traps odor, and never feels truly clean. Tile or stone brings the same softness underfoot when paired with a rug, without the hygiene headache,” says Saab.Maximalist BedroomsMaximalism is taking over home design—trends like dopamine decor and grandmacore even stem from the larger interior design style. Homeowners are craving a personalized space, but designers warn against going full force when it comes to the bedroom.”I have found that many clients seek peace, serenity, and a quiet place to rest in their primary suites. While the ‘more is more’ approach works in spaces that are meant to be dynamic and bold, bedrooms covered in wild patterns and loud colors are antithetical to getting sound, recuperative sleep,” says Andy Yates of Andy Yates Design.Glass BlocksJodiJacobson//Getty ImagesThey certainly look vintage, but glass blocks are not the natural light solution they once were. “Glass blocks had their moment, but let’s be honest—they rarely add beauty to a space. They end up feeling more like a dated, utilitarian fix than a design choice. Today, there are far more elegant ways to bring in natural light while maintaining privacy and safety,” says Jay. Shiny Yellow Brass Designers agree: shiny yellow brass instantly dates a home. “Brass itself is classic, but that overly yellow, lacquered version? It doesn’t need a revival. Unlacquered, aged, or burnished brass feels timeless instead. Say yes to patina,” says Haddad.”Instead of adding character, it makes a room feel stuck in the past. Warmer finishes like unlacquered brass or matte bronze bring in the same metallic interest without ever looking out of style,” adds Saab.Orange Polyurethane Oak Floors Wood tones and accents, whether used for flooring, furniture or simply decor, are on the rise. Still, that doesn’t mean all tones bring that same vintage feel. “I love that warm oaks are trending again, but the orange-red polyurethane finish? That one should stay firmly in the past. Matte, natural stains highlight the beauty of oak without the heavy orange cast,” says Haddad. 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
While it’s common to make your bed right after waking up, experts actually recommend giving your bedding time to air out.Our Good Housekeeping Institute cleaning expert shares why and reveals how long you should wait before making your bed.As a home editor, it’s no surprise I take home organization and cleanliness pretty seriously. And there’s one thing I absolutely cannot stand—an unmade bed. Once I’m up, the first thing I do is neatly straighten out my sheets and comforter, fluff my pillows, and move on with my day. It’s almost automatic at this point. When I heard that you actually shouldn’t make your bed immediately, I took it hard. What do you mean I’m supposed to leave the room with an unmade bed? Skeptical, I reached out to our cleaning expert at the Good Housekeeping Institute for backup. Read on for the reasoning behind why you shouldn’t make your bed right away, how long you should wait, and more mattress cleaning tips. Why You Should Wait to Make Your Bedsalez//Getty ImagesIt’s normal to sweat throughout the night, which leads to moisture buildup on your sheets and pillows. When you make your bed right away, you’re not giving your bedding any time to air out. “If you sweat at night, there’s dampness there and the bedding is warmed from your body heat, so you want to give it a chance to dry out and cool off before making the bed. Allergens, like dust mites, and germs, like bacteria, thrive in warm, moist conditions,” says Carolyn Forté, executive director of the GH Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab.How Long Is Long Enough? If you make your bed right away (like me), the good news is you don’t have to change your morning routine too much. By the time you’re done with your morning cup of joe, it should be okay to resume your bed-making habits.”Pull down the covers a bit and remove and fluff the pillows. Then in about 30-60 minutes, it should be good to make. You can always give the sheets a feel to make sure they’re dry,” says Forté. “Making the bed everyday is an important step to keeping your home organized and tidy and a good habit to get into.”Related StoryHow to Keep Your Mattress CleanWhile airing out your bedding every morning will help you avoid excess moisture buildup, there are a few other tactics you can try as well. “To keep the mattress and pillows clean and dampness free, I recommend using pillow liners and mattress pads for extra protection,” says Forté. “Some are even moisture-resistant.”Regardless of how you make your bed or the type of bedding you use, you should still clean your mattress regularly. That means using the upholstery tool on your vacuum cleaner to remove any dust, steaming it with a garment steamer to kill dust mites, and spot-cleaning stains throughout.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
Grandma’s house is full of vintage charm, especially when it comes to the kitchen.Designers reveal the antique items hiding in grandma’s kitchen that may be worth a lot of money. A trip to grandma’s house typically involves a home cooked meal in the heart of the home: the kitchen. While it might be difficult to keep your eyes off the main course, you should take a closer look at the surrounding china and decor. Whether it’s vintage glassware, embroidered linens, or cast iron cookware, there are probably a few items hiding in grandma’s kitchen that are worth a lot of money. Ahead, designers reveal the valuable antique finds and collectibles you might not even know are there. Read on for 14 hidden gems to keep an eye out for next time your munching on grandma’s homemade cookies. Cabbageware ChinaQuirky cabbageware china is having a moment. “These colorful, highly detailed ceramics are increasingly collectible. Majolica pieces from the 19th century can go for high prices, while Bordallo Pinheiro’s whimsical designs have surged in popularity, especially among younger collectors. Dodie Thayer’s cabbageware is especially prized—handmade and harder to find, her pieces can command significant sums at auction and from collectors,” says Liz Williams, founder and principal designer of Liz Williams Interiors.Related StoryVintage PyrexJennifer Tabb//Getty ImagesStill a household name today, it’s no surprise older Pyrex pieces can be worth hundreds. “Mid-century Pyrex in patterns like ‘Butterprint,’ ‘Gooseberry,’ and ‘Pink Daisy’ have a cult following. A complete nesting bowl set in great condition can go for $250–$600, and some rare Cinderella casserole dishes have sold for over $1,000. Bonus points for lids and anything in turquoise, pink, or limited runs,” says Heather French of French & French Interiors.Jadeite GlasswareIf grandma loves colorful design, chances are she might have jadeite glassware lying around. “These iconic green mixing bowls were once a staple in Americana kitchens, and some pieces in pristine condition fetch hundreds. We love their cheerful color, which evokes a playful yet timeless feeling, and of course reminds us of being in our grandmother’s kitchen,” says Sara Hillery of Sara Hillery Interior Design. Sterling Silver FlatwareWirestock//Getty ImagesWhile it definitely depends on the brand, grandma’s vintage sterling silver flatware shouldn’t be overlooked. “That fancy silverware pulled out only on holidays? It could be worth its weight in, well, silver. Brands like Gorham, Wallace, and Towle can fetch $800–$8,000+ for full sets, depending on the pattern and weight. Even mismatched pieces can bring $30–$80 each,” says French.Related StoryPancheonsA pancheon—or a wide, shallow mixing bowl—is another hidden gem to look out for. “Originally used for bread-making or separating cream, these weighty earthenware bowls are both practical and sculptural. With their rich glaze and gentle wear, they make striking centerpieces,” says Kate Cox of HÁM Interiors. Valencia Culver GlasswareBest known for their decorative glassware, Valencia Culver is a classic. “Valencia Culver glassware has seemed to maintain its popularity throughout the years and can definitely fetch a pretty penny. Again, it is most valuable if it comes in mint condition, and in full sets,” says Kate Pearce of Kate Pearce Vintage.Vintage LinensStefania Pelfini la Waziya//Getty ImagesThat decorative doily or table runner could be worth more than you think. “Hand-embroidered tea towels, aprons, and tablecloths in good condition can sell for $20–$100 each, and full sets or pristine pieces go even higher. Stylists and collectors snap them up fast. I’ve been collecting these since I was a teenager, and not only are they worth more, but the quality of the fabric is just better for the day-to-day in a kitchen,” says French. Milk GlassTypically white or off-white in color, milk glass is often used for tableware and other decorative items. “Produced in the late 19th and 20th centuries by companies like Fenton, Westmoreland, and Anchor Hocking, milk glass pieces—especially hobnail vases, cake stands, and covered dishes—are now highly collectible. Rare patterns and well-preserved sets often sell well above their original prices,” says Williams.Related StoryCopper MoldsVoisine//Getty ImagesUsed to bake cakes and make Jell-O, copper molds were a go-to back in the day. “Copper molds and pans are also worth keeping on your radar. Whether hanging from a rack or styled on a shelf, they’re as decorative as they are practical,” says Cox.Jean Roger FrogsWhether placed on the windowsill or used as a charming centerpiece, Jean Roger’s frog planters are certainly eye-catching. “Jean Roger’s whimsical ceramic frog planters, especially mid-century pieces made in Paris, are beloved by collectors for their playful designs and artistry. They come in many different colors and sizes and have become highly sought-after decorative accents, often fetching impressive prices at auction or in antique shops,” says Williams. Antique Dough BowlsOften handcrafted from a single piece of wood, antique dough bowls are typically used for mixing dough and letting it rise. “These seemingly simple, hand-carved bowls are highly sought-after and will never go out of style. They are especially popular at the moment, as they fit into nearly any design style from minimalist to eclectic to farmhouse, and add such a great organic vibe to the kitchen,” says Pearce.Cast Iron CookwareVICUSCHKA//Getty ImagesCast iron cookware is undeniably charming, even if it requires a bit more scrubbing to keep clean. “An ultimate cooking pan, if by certain brands like Wagner or Lodge (made in the beginning of the 20th century), is more superior to the ones made today and is not only valuable, but also cooks better,” says Evan Krenzien and Pierce Jordan of Shane & Pierce.Depression GlassIronically, depression glass—once made to be inexpensive—is now considered a valuable collectible. “Despite its humble origins, originating in the Depression Era, this colorful glassware is beloved for its nostalgia and historical significance. These very collectible pieces come in a variety of colors, with specific rare patterns and colors which can surprise in value,” says Hillery.Crystal StemwareCyndi Monaghan//Getty ImagesDepending on the condition, crystal stemware—especially as a full set—can sell for quite a bit. “Traditionally speaking, when couples got married in the past, it was time to give them items like crystal stemware. It’s strictly for entertainment purposes, and many of these items have a very high value,” says Alexandra Azat of Plaster & Patina.Let’s Go AntiquingLaura 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
