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    White Is Out and Warm Wood Kitchens Are In, Say Design Experts

    According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s newly released 2024 Kitchen Trends Report, more and more homeowners are ditching their simple all-white kitchen cabinets for warm wood finishes, including walnut and white oak.”We’ve seen a very noticeable transition from white kitchens to white oak cabinetry,” says Sarah Robertson, founder and principal of Studio Dearborn. “The pushback from white has resulted in a drive toward warmer tones in the kitchen.””Warm wood kitchens are instantly cozy, approachable and inviting,” agrees Kelsey McGregor, founder of Kelsey Leigh Interiors, who refers to the style as “timeless.” But the trend doesn’t stop with natural wood cabinetry: Designers are also incorporating wood ceiling beams, installing water-resistant wood floors and opting for wood countertops. What’s behind the kitchen trend?For natural beauty, consider matching white oak cabinets with a darker wood countertop.Courtesy of GrothouseOn the whole, designers say they’re noticing that interior color palettes are warming up. “We’ve turned the dial warmer across the board, and that’s translated into the cabinetry and finishes in our kitchens,” says McGregor. “People are spending more time at home so they want it to feel intimate and cozy, and natural wood can quickly transform a space that is void of personality to one of warmth and hospitality,” says Robertson.Does that mean that all-white kitchens are on the outs? There’s no denying that white kitchens are timeless — they look clean, bright and ensure your space will feel modern for years. On the downside, some say that white kitchens can lack texture, depth and intrigue. Wood kitchens, on the other hand, are more likely to exude warmth and can be more customizable to fit various lifestyles.”The rich, natural beauty of wood cabinets and countertops gives a complexity and character to spaces that white can’t match,” says Paul Grothouse, founder of Grothouse, a company that makes custom wood countertops. Not only do wood cabinets look more natural and organic, but they typically appear newer for longer than painted cabinets. “Chips and scratches are inevitable with painted cabinets, and the upkeep can be more tedious,” says McGregor. “When wood is scratched, there is less contrast from wood to wood, and the imperfection is easier to mend or hide.”What wood grains are best for kitchen cabinets?According to MasterBrand Cabinets’ 2024 Trend Report, “the popularity of wood grain is on the rise, showcasing a growing appreciation for the organic beauty and texture of wood.”Courtesy of MasterBrandDesigners say white oak is the most popular, but medium to dark tones are also popping up in kitchens — and walnut remains a fashionable choice, according to Robertson. White oak is a durable and long-lasting material for kitchen cabinets, although Robertson notes woods such as birch and alder are a more sustainable choice, since the trees grow faster.To break up a space, take a note from designer Bria Hammel’s book and pair a warm wood center island with painted kitchen cabinets (here, a moody green hue).Spacecrafting Photography”We’re starting to use alder, as it stains nicely, has a nice grain pattern and it does well in both modern and traditional settings,” adds interior design architect Julee Ireland. “It has a neutral tone and doesn’t feel as heavy and dated like some of the other wood species out there.” Designer Bria Hammel says she loves using white oak for classic coastal interiors, and alder or mahogany for moody, vintage-inspired spaces.According to Houzz research, medium wood tones are the most popular among homeowners right now, with a growing interest in light wood over the last year. “Popular photos on Houzz suggest that two of the most common options are white oak for its light, airy appearance, and walnut, which supports a richer look that, when paired with flat-panel cabinetry, works well in a mid-century modern style,” says Mitchell Parker, a senior editor at Houzz.Related StoriesAssociate Lifestyle EditorAlyssa 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

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    Designers Have Spoken: Green Kitchens Are All the Rage Right Now

    If you’ve spent any time at all on social media lately, chances are you’ve stopped mid-scroll to admire an all-white kitchen. We don’t blame you — there’s no question that a white kitchen has timeless appeal and a special way of making a cooking space feel light and bright. But according to the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s (NKBA) newly released 2024 Kitchen Trends Report, there’s another popular color creeping up in the kitchen design world: green. From deep forest green and bold emerald hues to elegant sage tones, a verdant kitchen can be just as full of personality — and it works with a range of design aesthetics. (There’s a reason why the term “green kitchens” currently has 162,000,000 views on TikTok). “It’s a truly versatile color,” says Paul Kropp, co-founder of Bakes & Kropp, a kitchen design and cabinetry business.More From Good Housekeeping The chameleon-like color, which can easily take on a relaxed or elevated vibe, is also perfect for homeowners seeking a nature-like vibe indoors. “It’s got that fresh, natural feel, reminding us of the great outdoors right in our homes,” says designer Marie Cloud. Julee Ireland, an interior design architect and product designer, acknowledges this, too: “I personally love green in all shades for its ability to connect you with nature – from the deep, saturated tones found in the rainforest to the soft, muted shades of green found by the sea.”A green hexagon backsplash makes a statement in a kitchen designed by RZ Interiors.Ryan Fung PhotographyBelieve it or not, green actually has a calming effect that makes it ideal for a cooking space. It’s “associated with a place where all the basic needs can be satisfied, such as finding food, water, shelter, the color green provides a sense of security,” notes Color Psychology. Additionally, the Hunter Lab reports that “green aids in relaxation, as environments with green elements are peaceful and nurturing.””Green is all the rage because it’s flexible, fresh and just feels right in the kitchen,” says interior designer Marie Cloud.AMANDA_ANDERSON PHOTOGRAPHYOf course, you can paint your kitchen cabinets green, taking your pick of paint color choices, like Graham & Brown’s 2024 Color of the Year, Viridis, but there are also so many great options for tiles and kitchen decor that put the color on display, too. “I have traveled to Spain, Portugal and Italy to the design and tile shows this year, and it’s shown in every collection as part of the color palette, which tells me it’s here to stay for a while,” says Ireland. Ivy Hill Tile Catalina 3Ivy Hill Tile Catalina 3Green paint and tiles have been top of mind for designer Kristen Fiore, too: “Pratt + Larson recently launched a kiln glaze called Surf that we are bringing in a handmade feel for backsplashes and other areas of a kitchen. We recently used Benjamin Moore’s Antique Pewter for a very large entertaining island and highlighted the frames of uppers in the same. It really creates a warm, rich, cozy feel to newer construction.” Designer Lina Galvão has also been inspired by the plethora of green products on the market right now. “A new appreciation for tones of green comes as paint and fabric companies launch new, more sophisticated and approachable tonalities, and coincides with the general global trend of biophilia,” says Galvão. When it comes to hues that complement green, neutrals are a no-fail choice, according to designer Vicky Serany: “We have blended green cabinetry with natural wood and even creamy whites. For those clients who are a bit cautious of committing to green cabinetry, we’ve used a rich green backsplash with neutral painted cabinets with beautiful results.”So with green kitchens on the rise, are white kitchens on the outs? Cloud certainly doesn’t think so. “White kitchens aren’t going anywhere — they’re like that classic white tee that goes with everything.” Related StoriesHome Design DirectorMonique 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.” More

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    5 Outdoor Upgrades That Add Major Curb Appeal

    They say you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but when it comes to your home, outward appearances make an undeniably forceful first impression. And while simple aesthetic updates — a fresh coat of paint, a new set of shutters — can certainly go a long way, some thoughtful investments can increase your home’s value and curb appeal. The best exterior home upgrades strike a balance between affordability and return on investment, creating long-lasting value that will increase over time. For example, replacing old siding with a product that features the latest technological advances, such as Hardie Panel fiber cement siding, can both create a striking change to the facade’s appearance and help increase its overall durability and weather resistance. And certain types of constructed additions, like outdoor kitchens and screened-in porches, can significantly increase your available living space (and home value), without the hassle of intrusive interior renovations. Read on for more on our outdoor-upgrade ideas that can create real, long-term value for your home.James HardieFacade faceliftThere’s little that alters the appearance of your home more dramatically than an entirely new exterior, whether you’re inspired by the classic Hardie Plank lap siding, (a product backed by the Good Housekeeping Seal) or are more drawn to a vertical design. The brand’s high-performance fiber cement products are a long-lasting and sustainable alternative to classic wood or vinyl paneling, meaning your investment will be well worth it in the long run. Unlike wood, the material is fire-resistant and pest-resistant; unlike vinyl, it’s extremely durable and won’t crack or warp in extreme weather. And thanks to James Hardie’s wide range of products — as well as the variety of design-savvy colors and textures they’re available in — there’s something for every style of home, from Hardie shingle siding for a Cape Cod–style cottage to large Hardie Architectural Panels for a contemporary one.EricVega//Getty ImagesDecked out Who would turn down a new outdoor living room? Constructing a deck or a patio increases your overall living space while adding an attractive new design element to the exterior of your home. An elevated deck will preserve your green space, while a paved stone patio lets you create a natural-feeling environment that fits in seamlessly with the rest of your landscaping. Depending on your dedication to the vibe, you might even consider building a screened-in porch, complete with a ceiling fan, lighting and seating.James HardieBeyond the grillIt doesn’t get a lot better than dining alfresco on a warm evening — except maybe if you can do all the cooking outside too. And while hovering over a grill is all fine and good, a full-service outdoor kitchen will add another level of appeal to your home, especially for those who love to entertain. Durable stone countertops, composite or stainless cabinets, and built-in appliances make for a functional exterior space that allows you to spend time with your guests rather than constantly heading back indoors to check on things. Consider installing a built-in wood-fire grill for searing steaks in style — or even, for the truly ambitious, commissioning a custom brick pizza oven. Vicki Jauron, Babylon and Beyond Photography//Getty ImagesForever friendsPlanting a garden filled with long-lived, low-maintenance perennials is a relatively simple way to dramatically transform the exterior of your home. For every hardiness zone (check here to find yours), there are a vast number of plants that will return year after year, growing more and more impressive as they mature. Colorful bloomers like daylilies, hostas and coneflowers will thrive in most zones, or you can opt for foliage-focused plants like holly, smoke bush or burning-bush shrubs, which turn a brilliant crimson every autumn. James HardiePooled resourcesIf you’ve got the space and can manage the maintenance, even the humblest swimming pool, whether built-in or above-ground, can translate into a major home-value increase. It’s a much-sought-after amenity for many prospective home buyers — and in the meantime, you won’t regret the summers spent enjoying it with family and friends. If you already have one, consider adding related luxe amenities — like a cabana, hot tub or outdoor bar — to make the most of your poolside real estate. More

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    How to Create the Perfect Holiday Tablescape With Cotton

    For many of us, “holiday season” also means “entertaining season.” From Thanksgiving all the way through to New Year’s Day, you’re more likely to have guests gathering at your table, meals will feel ever more festive and decorations that have been packed away since last year emerge to brighten up your home.Given that the natural focus this time of year is so often on the dining room anyway, a simple yet effective way to step up both your hosting and decorating game is with a little creative tablescaping. And that starts with linens: Think of cotton napkins, place mats, runners and tablecloths as your table’s wardrobe, giving it protection — but also personality. Here are three ideas for creating a tablescape that will put your home, and everyone who spends time in it, in a holiday mood.1. Lean in to the season with thematic prints and patternsHoliday motifs never fail to lend a whimsical, exuberant vibe. For Thanksgiving — and any other fall occasion, really — a classic choice is a harvest-inspired print: pumpkins, gourds and leaves in autumnal gold and red. Or you can interpret the theme a bit more broadly, with robust florals that can bridge the seasons from fall to winter. Botanical prints like these invite accessorizing with real botanicals: Tuck a sprig of rosemary or a dried flower into napkin rings, or make a centerpiece of beautiful winter branches instead of a traditional bouquet.Feel free to let your sense of humor show, too. For example, these 100% cotton turkey towels can double as napkins at your Thanksgiving table and are sure to elicit smiles. Another idea: If you’re headed to someone else’s home for the holiday, they make sweet gifts for the host.Williams Sonoma Heirloom Pumpkin Table RunnerSur La Table Fall Botanical NapkinsNow 30% OffTerrain Sprig + Stripe Cotton TableclothSur La Table Thanksgiving Embroidered Turkey TowelsNow 30% Off2. Let the food take the spotlight with neutrals and naturalsSerene colors and subdued patterns add up to a table that’s sophisticated as well as versatile. Whether you’re dressing it for a full-on Thanksgiving feast or just a night when friends drop by and end up staying for dinner, these simple but elevated cotton linens feel right for every occasion.The key here is to let details like fringe, decorative stitching and textural elements, rather than bright colors or busy patterns, add visual interest. Sticking to a calm palette — white, tan, gray, navy — means you can swap in virtually any serving pieces, dishes, and centerpieces and be assured of a cohesive look. Since this is a table that invites the food to take center stage, you can bring on all the gorgeous holiday platters, elaborate garnishes and showstopping presentations you’ve got.And because these table dressings are made of 100% cotton, they’re also machine-washable — so there’s no need to worry whether you have time to get the tablecloth to the dry cleaner before your next occasion. During these busy months, you’ll be especially thankful for stylish decor that’s also low maintenance.Terrain Fringed Cotton PlacematsWilliams Sonoma France Stripe NapkinsWest Elm Tangier Runner3. Create a cozy vibe with homespun fabricsEven during the holidays, not every feast calls for a formal table. Creating a more casual atmosphere with cheery, homey patterns like gingham, ticking stripes and plaid can help put everyone in a relaxed mood. Cotton is still ideal here — it’s soft and easy to care for — but a more informal table calls for heftier weaves like denim and twill.You can even extend the theme a bit beyond the table by stocking a set of coordinating aprons to hand out to guests who wander into the kitchen (it’s inevitable, right?). Since they’re there, they can help out! Serena & Lily Gingham TableclothNow 38% OffOpen Kitchen by Williams Sonoma ApronsWest Elm Hickory Striped Napkin Set More

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    6 Durable and Future-Proof Outdoor Home Investments

    Buying a home is a decision that deserves 100% certainty (unlike, say, your wardrobe, which you might overhaul regularly by season or style). And because it’s basically the investment of a lifetime, it needs to stand the test of time, inside and outside. Yet today’s fickle climate (thank you, global warming) means you never know what Mother Nature has in store — and accordingly, your house requires some serious fortification from the elements over the long term.“Your home’s exterior features, including its siding and the roof over your head, are the first line of defense, and today it’s more important than ever to invest in durable materials,” says Dan DiClerico, Good Housekeeping’s home improvement & outdoor director. Happily, these choices also affect curb appeal in a very positive way. “Exterior upgrades have some of the highest returns on investment of all home-improvement projects. They’re one of the best ways to add value,” DiClerico says. Read on to learn about some of our recommended ways to go about it.James HardieRethink your roof An aging roof can pose some big problems, like leaks and pest infestations, and of course can also be a major eyesore. In most parts of the country, asphalt shingles are the most common option here, given their combination of value and performance. But there are other options worth considering, based on the climate where you live. “In northern areas of the country, for example, metal roofs are popular, because they do a good job of shrugging off heavy snow,” DiClerico says. Conversely, he adds, in warm, dry regions that are prone to wildfires, concrete and terracotta tiles are extremely protective.James HardieUpgrade your sidingIf there’s one element that will give your facade an instant facelift, it’s siding, which is also critical in keeping your home safe from the elements and maximizing energy efficiency. Fiber cement is an increasingly popular option, for good reason. “The material proves extremely hard-wearing in our tests, fending off scratches and stains,” says DiClerico. “Plus, it requires very little maintenance — unlike some other materials, which need to be repainted or restained every 10 years or so.” His pick: James Hardie’s fiber-cement siding, which is water-resistant, non-combustible, fire-resistant and pest-resistant. It comes as traditional Hardie Plank lap siding, which is backed by the Good Housekeeping Seal, and the more contemporary Hardie Panel vertical siding. Hardie Siding also comes in various finishes to satisfy any aesthetic, including Select Cedarmill, stucco and smooth.James HardieDon’t forget trimThis is the finishing touch to your facade. “It’s part of the jewelry of the home, so it can really enhance curb appeal,” DiClerico says. And Hardie Trim boards can make even the most minor feature a standout. Use them to accentuate corners, columns, doors and windows in any of a variety of styles, like Rustic Grain, a traditional board-and-batten look; Smooth Batten, a contemporary take on the classic; Rustic, with a vintage wood-like texture; or the sleek-looking Smooth. James HardiePick your panesWhile windows can be an afterthought, they can have a major impact on a home’s style, performance and appeal. “And thanks to features like insulated glass and low-E [low-emissivity] coatings that minimize the amount of ultraviolet and infrared light that can pass through, new windows can also make a home more energy-efficient,” DiClerico says. Good Housekeeping recommends wood-clad windows, in which the outside wood is covered in aluminum or vinyl. “This reduces the upkeep, as well as the chance of rotting and insect infestation,” DiClerico notes, adding that composite windows, which are usually fiberglass-based, are another good option. “The best versions have the look of real wood without the need to paint or stain,” he says. “They tend to be very durable, too, making them a good option in extreme climates,” he says.akurtz//Getty ImagesAdd hearty hardscapingWhether it’s a backyard patio or the front walkway to your home, hardscaping makes outdoor spaces both more functional and aesthetically pleasing. It’s become very popular, especially in drought-prone parts of the country. “We’re seeing more homeowners replacing some or all of their lawn with hardscaping materials, since most options eliminate the need for irrigation, and they’re almost maintenance-free,” DiClerico says. He’s partial to concrete pavers for walkways, which “provide better traction than a paved surface, making slips and falls less likely.” Plus, the pavers move independently, so they won’t crack or crumble as easily as a poured-concrete surface can. phototropic//Getty ImagesLight it upOutdoor lighting is your home’s best accessory after sundown. It illuminates architectural features, of course, showing your home at its best — but, perhaps even more important, it will keep you and your visitors safe by lighting the way inside, DiClerico says. As with interior designs, “the key is to create different layers of light,” he explains. Some of the best options include task lighting on pathways and at the front door, and accent lights to illuminate trees, foundation plants and architecture. More

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    How to Turn Your Bar Cart Into a Statement Piece

    A perfectly made cocktail requires artistry, so why shouldn’t your home bar cart be an aesthetic canvas for cocktail hour? Even if the rest of your home is minimal, a compact cart can be the perfect pop of color and shape to bring any corner to life. Just think of how chic you’ll feel pouring yourself a Scotch from a sturdy, stylish decanter, or inviting your guests to help themselves to a drink like you’re the protagonist of a classic mid-century movie. A perfectly appointed cart is also an ideal home project, one you can tackle in a day with no special skills required (except maybe shaking up a martini). To make it that much faster, we’ve pulled together style suggestions and a curated shopping list available exclusively online at homedepot.com/decor to match. It won’t be long before you’ll be raising a glass to your home’s new favorite pic-worthy spot. Start with a Statement Cart The foundation of your bar itself, of course, sets the tone — think of it as the frame for your creativity. A metal-and-glass option will look at home in a variety of decor styles, from Palm Springs modern to traditional Craftsman. Curved shapes are currently having a moment, and make more of a style statement than traditional square or rectangular silhouettes. Southern Enterprises Dagney Wine TableSafavieh Sienna 2-Tier Chrome Bar CartLitton Lane 2-Tiered Bar CartGarnish with Bright ColorsHanging a bold print or painting above your cart is an easy win. But don’t neglect opportunities to add colorful panache to the cart itself. Fold a stack of colorful statement napkins (bonus points for a painterly print), mix and match coasters in complementary shades, and station a brightly hued vase to hold lush bouquets. Or for year-round, low-touch foliage, add a few sprigs of pampas grass or faux reeds in an unexpected shade of blush. The Company Store Bird Table NapkinsMascot Hardware Ceramic CoastersSullivans Faux Dried Purple Reed StemGo for the Gold (or Silver)Double down on metallic accents with light-reflecting accessories. Elevating essentials like ice buckets and bar tools are a stylishly practical way to go visually above and beyond, especially in a timeless gold finish. Emphasize the Art Deco angle with a set of slim silver trays, which also create clean lines and control clutter. Add a dramatic touch like a sculptural vase, to really drive home the gallery feel. Trina Turk Square Serving TraysKraftware Brass Mylar Ice BucketZulay Kitchen Silver Cocktail ShakerFind Decanters That Double as Decor Not every bottle has a beautiful label, but no worries: A centerpiece decanter is the perfect solution. Consider combining a few different shapes, like a twisted, chunky glass one for darker spirits like whiskey, and thinner, more ethereal options for red wine or batched cocktails. The former offers another opportunity to put your creativity front and center, too — line the vessel with sliced fruit and fresh herbs for an impressive botanical presentation. JoyJolt Carina Crystal Whiskey DecanterRiedel Crystal Wine DecanterOenophilia Valencia Wine CarafeAlways Accessorize David TsayMixing surprising details into your bar milieu will help it feel more like an art installation than an extension of your kitchen. Additions like low-maintenance air plants, a bold Grecian vase in graphic black, and patterned trays can be the cherry on top of an otherwise function-focused setup. When in doubt, look to the high-low principles of Pop Art: Filling a bowl with candy in an iconic wrapper and seeking out glass bottles of your favorite mixers are great ways to bring interactive fun to weekend cocktail hour. A & B Home Effra Rectangular TraysStoried Home Matte Black Aluminum VaseAltman Plants Easy Care Live SucculentsShape Up Take a risk and stir in whimsical or wonderfully off-kilter shapes for a groovy twist. A circular cart, a rectangular pitcher, and curvaceous glassware all make great conversation starters. Filling the space out with fresh takes on even the most classic pieces, like white-wine glasses, will telegraph confidence — even if your Manhattan-mixing skills could use some work. JoyJolt Atlas Crystal Whiskey Decanter and GlassesJoyJolt JoyJolt Rectangular Glass Drink PitcherLitton Lane Gold Metal Contemporary Bar CartAdd Natural-Stone Textures Earthy marble, malachite-patterned stone and glimmering amethyst would look just as at home in a sculpture garden as they do on your bar. These materials are highly functional when it comes to serving, but also lend a bit of gravitas and ground your design in simple luxury. When hosting, take a cue from Dutch still lifes and lay out an array of colorful garnishes on a marble board. Gauri Kohli Taraz White Marble Wine ChillerFox Run Polished Marble Coasters with HolderCreative Home Marble Cheese Serving BoardPhotographer: David Tsay; Art Direction and Production: Armine Altiparmakian and Sabrina Contratti; Prop Stylist: Olga Grigorenko; Merch Team: Two Coast Productions; Local Production: Right Arm Productions More

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    5 Tips for Vacuuming Pet Hair the Right Way

    As any pet parent knows, maintaining a clean, fur-free home can seem like a futile battle. Hairballs continue to waft and collect in every crevice despite your best efforts, making your home feel more dustbowl than dwelling. But when you have a stellar vacuum cleaner at the ready, as well as some key techniques up your sleeve, you can reclaim your space. Here’s what to look for in a model and how to use it like a pro. Choose the Right Device When it comes to pet hair, no ordinary vac will do — particularly if you have a shedder who gifts you enough fur to knit a winter wardrobe with. An effective choice is one that lets you configure the device to a specific task or area, such as the Miele Triflex HX2 Cat & Dog, which has a flexible three-in-one design. It’s got other innovative features that make it a pet owner’s dream, too: A built-in HEPA lifetime filter cleans the air, minimizing exposure to dust and allergens in the home; automatic floor detection adapts speed and power as you move from room to room; an LED headlight helps ensure you don’t miss a hair, and every charge gives you up to 60 minutes* of cleaning time. For more reasons why Good Housekeeping experts are impressed with the Triflex HX2 Cat & Dog, watch the video above. *Dependent on cleaning mode.Choose the Proper ModeConquering a fur trail is as much about knowing how to use a powerful device as it is about selecting it in the first place; the settings you use can make a big difference. For example, Miele Triflex HX2 Cat & Dog’s Reach Mode makes it a cinch to suction under-bed and -couch fur. Its Compact Mode, in combination with the included Handheld Turbo Brush, is perfect for quickie furniture or car refreshes. And the ergonomic Comfort Mode evenly distributes the weight of the vacuum so you can effortlessly clean large spaces.And regardless of what device you have, Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Home Care & Cleaning Lab at Good Housekeeping, recommends “choosing the highest (max) suction level your vacuum offers to more easily pull pet hair from fabrics.” Use the Correct Attachments Vacuuming up fur in hard-to-reach or -maneuver areas isn’t so difficult when you’re utilizing the proper tools for each task. The Triflex HX2 Cat & Dog “comes with a mini rotating brush attachment for nabbing pet hair on stairs and in upholstery creases, and a crevice tool for getting the clumps that lurk in corners and along walls,” Forté notes. Treat Fabrics FirstYour vacuum may have enough horsepower to easily suction up pet hair off the floor, but if you’re trying to remove it from a fabric that’s prone to static (like synthetics or wool), you may be met with some resistance. Forté suggests spraying pet hair-covered fabrics with a static-eliminating spray before vacuuming. “It helps break the charge that bonds the pet hair to the fabric, making it easier to suck up,” she explains. Know Your Grooming BasicsThe more you brush your pet, the less they may shed. A good scrub in the bath can also help remove dead hair before it can get to your floor or furniture — just check with your vet on how often to do it, to avoid over-bathing (which can dry out their skin and coat). Overall, in fact, “the more fur you actively remove from your pet, the less you’ll have to remove from your furniture,” Forté says. More

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    How the Experts Mix and Match Dining Chairs

    The dining table is the heart of your home, especially if you love to entertain. And we all have a sepia-toned image in our heads of those old-fashioned everything-in-its-place, perfectly matching wood table and chairs. But this is the 21st century, and whether you use a formal dining area for special occasions or host your holiday feasts at your everyday table, there’s room for variety, and no longer any need for strictly coordinated everything. Which is not to say there are no rules to mixing things up a little. First off, if you aren’t using a full matching set in the first place, embrace the collage. “Don’t go for matchy-matchy and attempt to perfectly mirror the seat legs to the table legs, or the base to the tabletop,” says interior designer Lauren Meichtry of Elsie Home + Design. “It’s an exercise in futility. It not only will leave you frustrated and constantly second-guessing yourself, but also will always look a little bit off.” Instead, she suggests creating contrast by combining different yet complementary chair styles to push your dining room decor into more modern territory. Of course, it can be a fine line between elegantly bohemian and just plain messy, so to help nail down the aspirational end of the decor spectrum, we tapped Meichtry, as well as Lisa Schwert of Connecticut-based Innate Studio, for tips. We also handpicked some of the many options available at exclusively online at homedepot.com/decor to bring those tips to life. Use Different Silhouettes in the Same Finish Family One easy way to get visual intrigue without eight individual styles is to pick a matching or similar profile and buy it in a few different colors or patterns. Schwert finds this strategy especially effective when it comes to fabric coverings. “If you’re mixing upholstered chairs, for example, you could combine a pattern with a solid in a complementary color” — think similar shades of velvet, presented in two distinct shapes. Another option would be finding a print that comes in multiple colorways and buying a few of each. Boyel Living Green Velvet Dining ChairURTR Olive Velvet Upholstered ChairHomefun Navy Blue Velvet Dining Chair Allow Plenty of Breathing Room It’s important to space out your dining set a little, both for the overall look and so guests can slide their chairs out — especially with a particularly busy mix. Don’t be afraid to break out a measuring tape, advises Schwert: “Make sure you allow enough room for people to sit comfortably. Typically you want 24 inches for each person, and make sure there’s at least three feet of clear space all around the table.” This also means, of course, that the size of your table and any surrounding sideboards are essential to the right spatial balance. Meichtry also emphasizes the right scale. “You may fall in love with a wide side chair, but if you need six and your table only comfortably fits four, then you need to pick a new chair,” she says. “Do not sacrifice comfort for looks on this one.” Fortunately, there are plenty of options out there to choose from, no matter the dimensions of your dining area. Noble House Beige Fabric Dining ChairsModern Dining Accent Rattan Dining ChairsPoly and Bark Enzo Dining Chair in BlackConsider the Placement David Tsay“If you are mixing new chairs, incorporating larger ‘host’-style chairs at the head of the table, and smaller chairs along the sides, is a simple way to establish visual impact and anchor the ends of the room,” says Schwert. Meichtry agrees: “I love a pair of caramel leather armchairs on the ends, with a surprising pop of color in my velvet side chairs, or a fully upholstered set of captain chairs in a traditional white-and-blue stripe with deep cane side chairs. But the possibilities are endless.” Francie Charcoal and Walnut Dining ChairsHomy Casa Yellow Fabric Dining ChairsMerra Oak Wishbone Dining ChairsMatch Wood Finishes to Tie Together Vintage and NewYou may want to build your set around a few beloved chairs you already own, either antiques or vintage pieces you’ve gathered over time. But there are some things to keep in mind. “If you’re mixing vintage wooden chairs, make sure the wood tones or shapes are similar,” advises Schwert. Likewise, if you want to add new chairs to your existing ones, seek out base woods or veneers that provide visual cohesion. StyleWell Natural Pine Windsor Wood Dining ChairsInternational Concepts Alexa X-Back ChairInternational Concepts Double X-Back ChairTry a BenchIf you’re feeling stuck, take a tip from the world of restaurant design. “We love a sophisticated take on a bench,” says Meichtry. “Instead of a proper farmhouse-style one on one side and side chairs on the other, try an upholstered bench with a back.” If your table needs to be anchored along one wall, it can also help space-wise to put a long bench on the wall side with individual chairs facing it, to reduce the amount of space you need to pull the chairs out. It’s also a great way to make a bold, non-traditional statement that still feels timeless. Powell Company Natural Bench with Padded SeatWelwick Designs Black Scandinavian Bench Best Quality Furniture Beige Upholstered Dining BenchPhotographer: David Tsay; Art Direction and Production: Armine Altiparmakian and Sabrina Contratti; Prop Stylist: Olga Grigorenko; Merch Team: Two Coast Productions; Local Production: Right Arm Productions More