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If you’re thinking about adding an en suite bathroom, chances are it’ll be a smaller space than a main bathroom. That said, just because a space is small doesn’t mean you have to skimp on style! In fact, a compact room can really pack a punch design-wise. 

Bathrooms are a great spot to play around with design since we don’t spend loads of time in them. So you can let your inner interior designer go wild!  And if you’re creating a beautiful guest bedroom that makes visitors feel like they’re getting the full hotel experience at your home, the en suite can be the perfect extension of that vibe.

We’ve rounded up some of our favorite bathroom designs and gathered tips from the experts on how to create a small en suite bathroom that’s both stylish and practical.

1. Vertical decorating

Even if you’re working with a smaller footprint, clever design tricks can help make the space feel bigger and add a stunning design element. 

As Rebecca Hansen, founder of Rebecca J Hansen Interior Design Studio says, 'The pattern creates dimension in a small ensuite bathroom. The space may appear flat and lack character in a room with all-white walls.  However, incorporating contrasting colors enhances visual interest.'

Vertical decorating really shines in a small space, so think about tiling a focal point, like the bathtub area or an accent wall behind the sink. By drawing the eye upward, vertically laid tiles can create the illusion of higher ceilings, making the room feel more open. 

And here's a top tip, a lighter color palette works well for this, but if you love a strong accent color, balance it with white or cream to keep things from feeling too closed in. 

2. Combine your bath and shower

When you're short on space, having separate areas for a bath and shower might not be realistic. However, one handy solution is attaching a shower head to your bath taps, it’s a clever way to offer both options without needing extra room. This gorgeous brushed brass set from Wayfair is a great place to start. 

And it’s not just for modern tubs! Even a classic freestanding bath can get in on the action. You can tie the whole look together with a matching shower curtain rail and a pretty curtain, turning a practical solution into a stylish feature. This way, your guests get the convenience of a shower with the charm of a bath, all in one neat package.

3. Get creative with an awkward space

Creating an en suite in a small or awkward space can be challenging, but it doesn't have to be a design nightmare. 

Nina Lichtenstein, founder of Nina’s Home Design advises us that, ‘Awkward, underutilized spaces offer the perfect opportunity to create a unique ensuite. A sloping ceiling can be ideal for a shower, and an unused corner can house a compact vanity. The key is to design carefully so everything fits together harmoniously."

If you’re dealing with a sloping ceiling, consider installing a window. Not only will this visually open up the room, but it will also flood the space with natural light.

Finally, invest in purpose-built storage solutions to avoid clutter and make the most of every inch. Figure out exactly what you need in terms of storage, then work with a manufacturer or carpenter to make the most of your space. Clever storage and thoughtful design can make even the trickiest of spaces feel functional and stylish!

4. Incorporate clever storage around the main elements

Small spaces call for smart storage solutions, and using every inch wisely is essential to achieving a design that's both stylish and functional. While larger rooms can accommodate freestanding units and let features stand alone, smaller spaces benefit from integrating storage within other elements. 

For instance, consider adding storage around the bathtub when installing it. This provides a perfect opportunity to build in shelving that blends seamlessly with your design scheme while also concealing pipework, a valuable trick for any compact space!

5. Create a cozy and inviting space with personal touches

Bathrooms are no longer limited to utilitarian designs and dull color palettes, and even though this is a space primarily for guests, adding in thoughtful details that reflect your tastes can create a warm, welcoming, and homey atmosphere, such as this beautiful shower curtain from Anthropologie. It's a great little find to add a bit of unique charm to your bathroom

Nina offers some great advice for personalizing your en suite bathroom.  'Adding personal elements can elevate the bathroom from purely functional to beautifully personal. A vintage mirror can introduce character and reflect light, helping the space feel larger, while artwork, especially moisture-resistant pieces, can add color and interest. These details can make the en suite feel more like an extension of your home’s overall style.'

6. Keep things fresh and clean with pale neutrals

Light, airy colors are perfect for making a space feel bigger and more open, especially in bathrooms where fresh, clean palettes create a serene vibe. But neutrals don’t have to be sterile! 

Explore different shades of white and cream with warmer undertones, and consider a subtle accent color like deep burgundy to add depth. Mixing textures also helps keep things interesting and cozy. Amy Courtney, founder of Amy Courtney Design kept things neutral but textural in this space: ‘For the walls, we chose Tadelakt, a waterproof plaster finish. This material not only adds a unique texture but also beautifully reflects light, creating a warm and serene atmosphere.’ 

Finish with wood accents such as this bamboo bath stool from Wayfair and brass hardware to bring character while still keeping that light and airy feel you’re after. Or add this stone bathmat from Sutera which absorbs all the excess water left over after the shower.

7. Try out a fun fabric an an alternative to cupboards

Traditional structured cupboards aren't for everyone when designing a room. The good news is you can still hide away the clutter while keeping things looking pretty.

Since an en suite bathroom is likely to need less storage than other rooms, you can consider more creative options, like a charming little curtain under the sink. Nina shares a great idea for this design feature ' A simple curtain, whether in a bold pattern or a soft, neutral fabric, can conceal your storage while also introducing texture and warmth to the space that otherwise wouldn’t be there.'

It’s an easy DIY project that can be done in the afternoon and instantly brightens up the room. With a huge variety of fabrics to choose from, such as this pretty coral stripe from Wayfair, there will always be something that complements your personal style and your overall bathroom design. 

8. Plan a bathroom niche into your design

A bathroom niche is a fantastic solution for storage when space is tight. Not only does it provide a stylish way to keep your essentials organized, but it also seamlessly blends into your design, adding a chic touch to your bathroom. 

Instead of cluttering the floor with toiletries, a niche offers a neat and attractive way to store everything you need. This is especially handy in an en suite used by guests, who might not be familiar with the space. 

It keeps all their essentials within easy reach, so they don’t have to hunt around or ask where things are. It’s not just a stylish feature; it’s super practical too.

9. Make a wetroom into a design feature

A bath can be a luxury, but some rooms just don't have the space for one. In these cases, a shower or wet room is a brilliant solution, and it definitely doesn’t have to be boring! 

Since painting isn't recommended in this sort of space, tiling becomes your best friend. With tiles, you can create nearly any pattern or color combination you imagine, like this stunning brown and white checkerboard design.

If you're hesitant to go too bold with your tile choices but still want a striking design without overwhelming the space, Rebecca Hansen, founder of Rebecca J Hansen Interior Design Studio, offers some great advice: ‘If you're afraid bold colors will make the room look small, add reflective surfaces such as glossy tiles and a large mirror. They help bounce the light throughout the room, enhancing the sense of space and adding depth.’

So, don’t be afraid to play with tile patterns and finishes. Even in a small shower or wet room, you can create a show-stopping space!

10. Consider a ‘Tubby’ bath tub

Not only do small ‘tubby’ style bathtubs look incredibly charming, but they’re also a fantastic solution for small or awkward spaces where a bathtub is nonnegotiable. 

Nina finds them surprisingly effective,  ‘A bathtub that’s slightly shorter than the standard size can fit snugly into compact spaces, allowing you to enjoy the luxury of a bath without overwhelming the room.’

Despite their smaller size, these tubs offer a surprisingly luxurious experience. They’re designed for a more upright bathing position, which, combined with their height, provides a deeper soak. So you get all the benefits of a full bath but in a compact, stylish package.

Small spaces might seem challenging, but with a bit of creativity, you can turn them into something amazing. By incorporating smart storage solutions, experimenting with bold colors and textures, and playing with tile patterns, you can make every inch work for you. 

Don’t be afraid to mix things up, even in a compact bathroom! These design tricks can create a functional and inviting retreat. 

So dive in, get inventive, and transform your small en suite into a space that’s both stylish and practical. 

Rustic kitchens are all about warmth, charm, and personality, and a rustic style in the heart of the home, lets you have fun with decor by mixing textures, colors, and treasured heirlooms for a space that feels uniquely your own.

Whether you have a tiny kitchen or a big open plan, this look can work wonders. If you're tired of the clean lines and simplicity of modern kitchens, a rustic kitchen style fully leans into an organic, laid-back vibe where a bit of 'perfectly imperfect' is right at home. The beauty of the rustic kitchen is its well worn look, almost as though it’s been a work in progress over many years

Think weathered wood, flea market finds, rugged stone floors, and surfaces that tell a story. It’s a style where the quirks are celebrated, and everything gets better with age. So, if you love a kitchen with character, this one’s for you!

We've rounded up our 7 favorite rustic kitchen ideas and asked our experts to share their top tips and advice for designing a charming kitchen that feels just like the heart of the home.

1. Invest in a range cooker

Rustic kitchens and range cookers are made for each other. In fact I would argue that a rustic kitchen might look a little strange with anything more contemporary! With their nostalgic charm and good looks, range cookers effortlessly slip into the rustic vibe.

Vincent Larson, lead interior designer at Copper Smith gives us some handy tips when choosing the right range for your kitchen, ‘Opt for a cooker with a vintage or heritage look, perhaps with enamel finishes in classic colors like cream, sage, or deep burgundy. The cooker should feel substantial and timeless, something that looks like it’s been part of the kitchen for generations.'

And whilst they can effortlessly blend in, a well-placed range cooker can also take center stage as a stunning focal point, especially if your home is missing those classic architectural details.

Try carving out a spot for your range and frame it with textured colored tiles, such as these 'vintage leather' colored tiles from Fireclay, or a striking backsplash. A well-placed range cooker framed with a decorative element is what a fireplace and mantle is to a living room.

2. Make a display of pots and pans

Kitchens are made for living, and a rustic kitchen embraces this philosophy to the fullest. Its whole charm lies in celebrating the lived-in look. Bring your pots and pans out into the open with open shelving or a classic pot rack, which not only keeps your cookware right at your fingertips, but also transforms them into standout design elements.

Choose pieces that complement the rustic style, such as iron skillets, shiny copper pots, and vintage wooden utensils. When displayed with a little creativity, these everyday items bring tons of personality and visual flair to your kitchen as well as keeping your kitchen space organized.

A handy tip for those with a smaller kitchen, utilizing the ceiling space not only frees up cupboard space but you get a fully functioning design feature out of it as well. This rusty finished ceiling-mounted pot rack from Wayfair is a great place to start!

3. Try 'curtain skirts' rather than cupboard doors

With all that weathered wood, mismatched tiles, and vintage metals, a rustic kitchen can sometimes feel a bit rough around the edges. That’s where a kitchen skirt comes in. Adding one of these can instantly soften the space and bring a touch of personality.

They’re super easy to install and clean, plus they hide any clutter with style. In fact they can be a little more forgiving if you have over stuffed cupboards! Swap out the doors for a kitchen skirt on just a few units or one side, and watch how it breaks up the rigid look.

And the best bit? You can get really creative with fabrics, adding a pop of color and pattern without ever picking up a paintbrush.

If a poppier bit of color isn’t your style, Vincent suggests ’If you're going for cottage-like charm, choose natural fabrics like linen or cotton in earthy tones or simple patterns. These curtains can also introduce a bit of texture and movement, contrasting nicely with more solid materials like wood and metal.’

4. Lean into earthy colors

Bright colors aren’t the usual choice in a rustic kitchen, this style is all about embracing warmth, comfort, and vintage charm. With its love for natural, organic textures, the color scheme should follow suit.

Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL shares her go-to approach, ‘Lighter colors and not too much color are best for this look. Keep things natural, both in the materials you use and the accessories you include. Stick to a simple palette and avoid splashes of bright colors. Even if you want a moodier vibe, keep it soft and natural.’

Think soft off-whites on the walls such as Pale Oak by Benjamin Moore, paired with deep greens or rich browns for the cabinetry. That's a great place to start! Finish the look off by layering in some vintage wooden shelving, aged brass taps, and a few natural woven runners.

5. Opt for weathered metal finishes

Taps might not be the first thing you think of in kitchen design, but they play a huge role in both function and style. In a rustic kitchen, a standard chrome tap won’t cut it, and it’ll look oddly placed amongst all the other textures

Instead, opt for aged brass or copper taps. Not only do these finishes add a beautiful, warm touch, but they also develop a unique patina over time, which only adds to their charm. As they interact with their environment, they subtly change color, creating a dynamic, organic look that evolves with use.

And don’t forget about style! Choose traditional taps with a bit of height and intricate details, and keep an eye out for extra touches like porcelain handles on mixers.

6. Embrace unfinished textures

In a rustic kitchen, imperfections aren’t just acceptable, they’re part of the charm! What might seem like unfinished walls or a rough floor in a modern setting can become key elements of your kitchen’s character.

Instead of seeing these features as jobs that need fixing, embrace them as integral parts of the rustic look. A painted brick wall, a weathered wooden floor, or even slightly chipped tiles contribute to a lived-in atmosphere that defines the rustic style.

For older homes, particularly those with original architectural features like exposed wood beams, these elements are essentially doing half the decorating for you. Their imperfections blend seamlessly with the rustic aesthetic and every detail only adds to the overall charm.

7. Dress shelves with vintage crockery

If you’re a flea market addict or have an enviable treasure trove of vintage ceramics just waiting to be displayed, a rustic kitchen design is the place to do it. Invest in floating shelves and make a display out of all your beautiful crockery. While your usual dinner plates might still live behind closed doors, a rustic kitchen is all about breaking free from the minimalist mold.

Helen has some expert advice on adding in the finishing touches to your rustic kitchen space ‘Keep things light and bright, but add in small touches of vintage. I would focus on keeping each addition to the room well-considered and thoughtfully chosen. Space and light are very important and if you add touches of darker shades then balance them with brighter colors but not too contrasting, just a lighter shade to keep an overall feeling of calm.'

With few rules to follow, a lamp on the countertop won't look out of place, and displaying slightly mismatched pieces is encouraged. Consider hanging vintage plates or an old oil painting alongside a cherished heirloom teapot or a weathered wooden bowl. The finishing touches in a rustic kitchen are where you can truly make the space your own and really have some fun!

A rustic kitchen is more than just a design choice, it's an invitation to fill your home with warmth, charm, and a bit of personality.

Think of it as a celebration of all the little details that make a space feel truly lived-in. The gentle patina on those aged brass taps, open shelves packed with your favorite crockery, and vintage finds that add character in every corner.

It’s about embracing the imperfect and letting your space tell its own story.

A breakfast nook is the new must-have kitchen design feature that everyone is talking about! These cozy, inviting corners bring the perfect blend of comfort and style, giving you a special spot that feels connected to the heart of the home without being totally separate.

Whether you're looking to make the most of an unused corner, breathe new life into an awkward alcove, or turn a tiny room into a purposeful space, breakfast nooks are full of inspiration. There’s something irresistible about these little spots; they’re warm, welcoming, and just right for relaxed mornings.

Ready to bring some of that easy, morning magic into your kitchen? We’ve rounded up our favorite ideas with a little help from the experts to help you do just that

1. Incorporate clever storage solutions into your design

One of the greatest advantages of a breakfast nook is that it often comes with built-in benches, which not only provide a comfy spot to sit but also offer valuable storage solutions.

As CEO of Coates Design, Matthew Coates puts it, ‘Nooks are usually smaller, more intimate, and often situated close to the kitchen or in a cozy corner, making them ideal for informal, relaxed dining. Their charm comes from being a snug, approachable spot that feels like a retreat within your home.’

A well-designed breakfast nook can be both a charming feature and a highly functional space. Unlike a traditional dining setup, it serves as an eating area, a social hub, and a clever storage solution all in one.

Maximizing seating is crucial to making a breakfast nook comfortable and practical. Since these spaces are usually nestled into a corner, there often isn't room for bulky dining chairs. Banquette seating is the perfect alternative, adding plenty of seating while also offering hidden storage beneath the cushions.

As Matthew advises: ‘Comfort is key in a breakfast nook, so don't sacrifice practical elements like comfortable seating or easy-to-reach storage just for the sake of aesthetics.’

By blending comfort, functionality, and style, you can create a breakfast nook that's as practical as it is inviting.

2. Build into your existing kitchen design

While most breakfast nooks are typically tucked into corners or along the sides of a kitchen, sometimes the layout calls for a more creative approach. Placing a breakfast nook right in the middle of your kitchen can be a unique and surprisingly effective way to incorporate this feature.

Principal designer at Laure Nell Interiors, Laetitia Laurent shares her advice, ‘Avoid overcrowding the space. A breakfast nook should feel inviting, not cramped, so be mindful of scale when choosing furniture. Keeping things simple and streamlined will prevent the nook from feeling out of place.’

To help the nook blend seamlessly into your kitchen, it’s important to use the same finishes and materials, creating a cohesive look.

Amber Guyton, Interior Designer at Blessed Little Bungalow suggests, ‘Keep the color scheme uniform and use the kitchen's cabinetry, tile, wall color, etc, as the foundation of the scheme. Then select colors, fabrics, and items that will complement it so the spaces feel naturally aligned’

3. Zone your breakfast nook with bright pops of color

Zoning is a great way to create distinct areas within an open-plan space, so why not use a splash of color to make your breakfast nook feel warm and inviting?

This approach works wonderfully in a bright, vibrant kitchen, but it can also bring a dynamic twist to a contemporary, neutral kitchen. For instance, in a black-and-white kitchen, a pop of bold color in the nook can add just the right amount of ‘zing’.

Choose an accent color that ties in with something already in your kitchen such as a shade of green that matches your plants or accessories, and use it as the main color for your breakfast nook.

Keep the furniture simple to let the walls and upholstery stand out. Finish with a few culinary-inspired prints, and you’ll have a unique dining space that feels like an extension of your kitchen, while still offering the cozy feel of its own little nook.

4. Carve out a breakfast area in a small kitchen

Not every kitchen has room for a dedicated breakfast nook. If space is tight, consider a simple garden bistro table and chairs, such as this charming table available at Target. Light and compact, these sets can easily tuck into the smallest corners, and they come in a wide range of styles and colors to match any kitchen decor.

It's an affordable alternative to bespoke, built-in solutions, while still adding charm and functionality and without the commitment of built-in furniture and allows you to play with soft elements like rugs, cushions, and decor.

For truly compact kitchens, consider incorporating a small breakfast space into the overall design. As Helen Parker, Creative Director of deVOL Kitchens, suggests, ‘Staggering the depth of your worktops is another good option as it allows you to create small, shallow areas for seating or slim cupboards. It's the perfect solution for a little breakfast bar, as galley kitchens rarely have enough width for a kitchen table.’

5. Bring Parisian café charm to your breakfast nook

With a few clever design ideas, you can create a cozy nook that feels just like your favorite bistro. A great breakfast nook solution that fits in perfectly with a rustic-style kitchen

Start with some key details, like a ‘café curtain’. This is simply put, a sheer fabric that lets in light while offering a bit of privacy, perfect for creating an intimate corner. These sweet lace curtains available at Target are a great place to start.

As Helen suggests, ‘Drape vintage lace in your window or simply add a touch of Parisian café culture to your home with our gloriously simple aged brass café curtain rails. It’s an easy, affordable way to add a little French flair to your space.'

Pair those curtains with vintage bistro chairs to complement the built-in seating typical of a breakfast nook, and look to simple muted wall colors. Keep the decor simple, unfussy, and a bit vintage.

Lead Designer at Awning, Elissa Hall recommends ‘Consider adding a small bistro table, mix-and-match chairs, and lighting, such as a single pendant light or wall sconces. The idea is to create a place where you can linger over coffee and feel a bit of that relaxed, social energy. I always recommend placing nooks near windows to maximize natural light, just like your favorite sunlit corner in a café.'

6. Make use of an awkward room or corridor

If you’ve got an awkward space between your kitchen and another room that’s too small for a living area but too wide to be just a hallway, why not turn it into a cozy breakfast nook?

Plus, because it’s so close to the kitchen, it’s super convenient for those rushed mornings when every second counts. And beyond just being useful, it’s a great opportunity to get creative with your design.

Think bold cushions, a unique table, or even some fun wall art to personalize it. Whilst this area may be just a touch separate from your kitchen, try emulating the same style to keep the look and feel cohesive.

To keep things nice and tidy, opt for built-in benches that fit seamlessly against the wall, paired with a few sleek chairs. It’s an easy way to make that small, in-between space work functionally while adding a charming new spot to your home.

7. Get creative with customization

Banquette-style seating and built-in benches are the heart of a breakfast nook, offering endless ways to customize the space to match your unique style. While you can buy ready-made options, many prefer a custom-built nook to their exact specifications.

You can paint the bench to blend with your kitchen, choose a bold color, add storage or shelving, and most fun of all, select unique upholstery.

From classic flat cushions to playful fabrics, upholstery is an easy way to refresh the look as your tastes evolve. The great thing about upholstery is that it can be relatively easy to change, allowing you to update your breakfast nook as your tastes evolve or even after a full kitchen refit.

As Laetitia Laurent, Principal Designer at Laure Nell Interiors tells us ‘Bold upholstery in a breakfast nook can serve as a statement piece that draws attention and adds personality to the space. Consider using patterns or vibrant colors that reflect the mood you want to create. Whether it’s energetic and playful or sophisticated and serene.’

So whether it’s bright patterns, bold colors, or custom storage solutions, a breakfast nook can be both a focal point and a flexible feature that adapts to your style.

A breakfast nook is more than just a charming addition to your kitchen It offers a cozy, informal setting for meals and conversations, making your kitchen a more inviting and dynamic space.

Whether you opt for built-in benches with clever storage or a compact bistro setup, a breakfast nook integrates seamlessly into any kitchen layout.

And it’s customizable nature allows you to express your personal style while adding practicality. Ultimately, a well-designed breakfast nook transforms your kitchen into a vibrant hub where comfort, convenience, and aesthetics come together beautifully.

I absolutely love vintage-inspired kitchens. They always look cozy and cute, which makes them perfect for cooking wholesome meals and having a relaxed time with friends and family.

Alicia Silverstone's kitchen is the perfect example of this, and I'm officially in love with it. Let's just say she isn't Clueless about interior design. I've asked the pros why her brass fixtures, wooden textures, and thoughtful details work so well, and how to get the look at home.

If you're looking for kitchen ideas that will invite people in and will stand the test of time, Alicia's space has plenty of lovely features to inspire you.

I’ve seen vintage nostalgia everywhere this year, which Alicia Silverstone’s kitchen perfectly embodies with its fixtures and accessories.

“As an interior designer, I appreciate Alicia Silverstone's kitchen for its simplicity and coziness,” says Kristin Hintlian, interior designer and co-owner of Bonsai Builders.

To achieve a style, Kristin recommends choosing timeless fixtures like a farmhouse sink and retro-inspired hardware or small appliances.

“Get yourself a faucet with some weight, something that feels like it’s lived through a few decades of real life,” adds Ruben Gutierrez, interior designer and founder of Errez Design. “Don’t baby it — let it age, let it wear. That’s where the character comes from. You don’t want shiny and new — you want something that gets better with time.”

The warmth added by this brass faucet is also complemented by the wooden kitchen decor dotted around throughout.

“Wooden cutting boards, bowls, and utensil holders are easy ways to bring natural warmth to a space without major renovations,” Kristin adds.

Other details like pendant lighting, potted indoor plants, and decorative objects help finish the look by keeping the space uncluttered while still feeling homey.

“I also love how these are contrasted with white and black kitchen ideas such as black countertops and white subway tile, which create a sleek yet inviting look,” says Kristin.

“A crisp, neutral color palette with touches of black provides contrast and makes the wooden elements pop,” she adds.

Ruben agrees, adding, “The white cabinets and dark countertops play off each other perfectly. The room breathes, lets the light pour in, and gives space for the real stars.”

Shop the look

With some key pieces and a cohesive style, it's possible to recreate Alicia’s inviting, vintage-inspired look on a budget.

“Focusing on a limited color palette, multi-purpose wooden accessories, and timeless fixtures are smart strategies for keeping costs down while achieving a high-end result,” Kristin finishes by saying.

Want to carry on swooning over celeb kitchens? I also love Olivia Rodrigo’s kitchen, which channels quiet luxury style wonderfully.

When it comes to dressing your dining room, it can be easy to go over the top with tablescaping and too many details.

But, if you want to keep things chic and refined, Eva Longoria's space is a beautiful example of how a little can go a long way. I've asked interior designers why her material choices, lighting ideas, and floral centerpieces work so well, and how you can recreate the look at home.

For those looking for dining room ideas that will stand the test of time, Eva's space has so many beautiful details.

The first thing that stands out for me in Eva’s narrow dining room is the use of high-quality materials, as they create an inviting space.

“The wood dining table and chairs are simple yet neat, with curved lines that make guests want to stay and chat over a home-cooked meal,” explains Aaron Alway, design expert and founder of BLDG Custom Homes.

Thinking about trying this in your home? Go for a solid wood table with a natural or slightly distressed finish, such as one from a secondhand furniture store. “Rectangle is the way to go if you want that ‘come one, come all’ vibe,” says Angelique Kreller, interior designer at Yabby. “If you want this in your home, learn from Eva, and let the gorgeous wood grain do the talking.”

She also makes the most out of her dining room lighting, with Eva choosing dimmable pendants, which are ideal for providing a dreamy glow for intimate dinners. “I often recommend pendant lights to my clients, as they create dramatic shadows and highlights that bring warmth to a space,” Aaron adds.

All of these simple features allow the biggest decor piece to really shine. “The big vase of flowers in the center of the table is the cherry on top in this room,” says Angelique. “The height gives the room some dimension, which is great for the effortlessly chic aesthetic Eva is going for here.”

“Seasonal blooms in jewel colors are a go-to recommendation I make to create stylish statements in my own designs,” adds Aaron. Jewel tones are also one of the bigger interior color trends this year.

If you want to try this out in your space, Angelique suggests filling a large and simple vase with your flower of choice (real or fake), such as hydrangeas or lilies.

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By utilizing natural materials, chic lighting, and seasonal blooms, you too can create a space that’s stylish and livable.

“Eva has achieved a balance of comfort and drama that can be recreated at home with the right furnishings and accessories,” Aaron finishes by saying.

Want to carry on scouting out the star’s house? I’m also a fan of Eva Longoria’s kitchen cabinets which are so on-trend.

It's time to ditch the gray's, greens and blues and consider pink in your living room instead. It's a beautiful color that has plenty of possibilities – from deep magenta to barely their blush, there really is something for everyone. 

Easy on the eye and it a color that works fabulously with other colors, it really is a good option for a living room. 

Our pink living room ideas below, complete with expert advice, will help you consider this lovely shade and show you how to use it. 

1. Rose is great with gray

There's something comforting about pink, and this lovely shade of rose has gray undertones, which is why it works so well with this gray couch.

"Pink is one of my favourite colors as it’s extremely versatile; we have many shades of pink in our collections because it looks great in so many rooms in the home," says Francesca Wezel, founder, Francesca's Paints. 

A calming colour associated with love, kindness and femininity, Francesca says, "Adding a splash of pink to your home will create a welcoming, serene environment. Pink is also a good choice for the home as it is said to represent hospitality."

Copy this pink with Francesca's Artemisia's Pink, a lovely chalky shade. 

2. Team a bold shade with lime

Embrace the brights and choose a lime green couch to go with your rich pink walls.

"My client already owned the vibrant apple green sofa. She requested a continuation of bold, bright colors. Among the fabric samples I showed her for decorative pillows was one from GP & Baker, which she adored. Drawing inspiration from this sample, I coordinated all the colors to harmonize together," says Theresa Butler, principal and founder of Theresa Butler Interiors. 

Want to use this shade in your living room? "The paint color, Sherwin Williams 6306 Cordial, a rich and deep shade of hot pink, was an ideal selection for extending the maximalism of color and pattern," adds Theresa. 

3. Or keep it simple

If the thought of painting your walls pink feels a little too much then choose pink furniture instead. 

A pale pink sectional will give you enough 'pink' to see if you like it and it does look great with white. Team it with an antique rug with a pink background and see how you like it. If it lights up up then consider painting  your walls too.

Alix Day, founder of Alix Day Architecture and Design explains what pink is a great option, "Pink plays so well with many neutrals- – blue, greys, black and even beiges. Pink is the piece you bring in to add the drama the space is lacking, soften the room or add whimsy. It's finding the right pink undertone that complements the neutrals around it."

Want to copy this look? Have a look at our buys here. 

4. Blush lifts a space

If you're tired of neutrals but love that pale tone it brings to a space then a blush pink is a great option. 

"Softer shades like Masquerade add a delicate pink touch which brings a natural warmth to a room, without being too strong, " says Ruth Mottershead, creative director, Little Greene. 

There's a misconception that blush pink can't be contemporary – team it with black and white accessories in interesting shapes and you'll create a scheme that's fresh and modern. 

5. Create a statement with a neon pink

Not for the faint hearted, this amazingly bold neon pink paint color is punchy and bold. 

“Bright pink paints can elevate your living room and create an inviting atmosphere. When used for larger areas, shades like FTT-006, a dramatic dark pink from our Upcycled Collection, a palette made from unwanted leftover paints and materials, create a cheerful and warming impact," explains Dominic Myland, CEO of Mylands. 

When using a color this bright you need to create balance elsewhere, so neutral furniture is key – white or oatmeal chairs and couches, creamy rugs and wooden side and coffee tables will do the trick. 

6. Choose three shades

Can't decide on one particular pink shade? Then use more than one – nothing beats a great color blocking scheme and pink is a fabulous way to achieve it. We asked Helen Shaw, director of marketing (international) at Benjamin Moore for her advice on using pink:

"From blush through to coral and fuchsia, pink paint offers a surprising range of shades. It's a hue that has a sophisticated side with soft and muted blush tones that are perfect for livingspaces. To create a vibrant, uplifting modern look and feel experiment with monochromatic pairings, using subtly different shades of pink to deliver an underlying harmony to your scheme."

Here we have three wonderful pink shades, all from Benjamin Moore, see below to recreate this look in your living room.

7. Choose a hint of pink

A literal hint of color is sometimes all your need, it will be enough to soften the space and prevent it from becoming too stark.

"If you prefer a softer ambience, shades like Early Lavender No. 260 provide a calm, pastel backdrop that brings a sense of interest and nuance to your living room," says Dominic Myland.

You can add bright color with accessories instead which you can mix and match with, like patterned cushions and artwork. Wayfair's 3 Pieces Henri Matisse Prints will look great on this shade of pinky lavender. 

8. Opt for a shocking pink to create a statement

Create a color drenched focal point by painting your wall and fire surround in a deep pink. "For a bolder approach why not consider a striking pink such as ‘Leather’, this arresting color gives instant design impact and is an energising colour which is perfect for this most social space in the home. To maintain the balance, combine with a fresh white such as ‘Loft White’ which will temper the heat of this deep and evocative shade," explains Ruth Mottershead. 

Team it with a jet black side table for an edgy feel, Walmart's Cerbior Metal Tray End Table is a great buy and ideal for this scheme. 

Pink is one of those colors that has lots of potential and choice. From the palest hint of color to the deepest rich shades of magenta and scarlett, it's a really good option if you want to create a warm fun scheme. 

Our pink living room ideas will give you plenty of scope so you can introduce this fabulous color into your space. 

I've been obsessed with Olivia Rodrigo's home decorating game for ages. She has a style that's sleek and timeless, yet still showcases her personality.

This time around I'm loving her living room, which she sat down in while chatting with Vogue for its 73 Questions series. I've asked interior designers why her color choices, throw pillows, and bookcase work so well and how you can replicate the Drivers License singer's look at home.

For those on the hunt for playful and pretty living room ideas, Olivia's space has plenty of cool and characterful touches from which to draw inspiration.

Olivia Rodrigo’s living room mixes together modern and traditional details, with details that anyone can incorporate into their own space (apart from the Grammys, of course).

“Olivia’s gray couch is the star of the room. It’s understated yet sophisticated, and the color is a great alternative to tones like black or beige,” explains Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty.

This is elevated by her choice of throw pillows. “I love that there's a really fun and youthful mix of colors and textures; the sofa has such a warm and inviting look while also feeling decidedly curated,” says Kathy Kuo, interior designer and founder of Kathy Kuo Home.

Mixing light and dark shades like Olivia's is a wonderful way to create a cozy yet contemporary feel.

All of this is complemented by the mid-century modern shelving — a design style Olivia Rodrigo’s dining room also has.

“What I love about this is how it’s styled — Olivia has a mix of books, personal items, and awards all arranged in a way that’s clean but still personal,” says Rachel. “The balance is key here - there’s enough on display to tell a story, but not so much that it feels cluttered.”

If you’re recreating this look, Rachel recommends choosing a solid wood bookcase with clean lines, and when styling it, alternate between books and decorative items. “Don’t feel like you need to fill every inch of space — sometimes less is more,” she adds.

Shop the look

The singer’s home is filled with thoughtful touches that are easy to replicate.

“It's apparent that Olivia feels comfortable in her style and color choices and that she cares about her home looking great as well as feeling really relaxed and livable."

Want to carry on scouting out the star’s home? I’m also a fan of Olivia Rodrigo’s quite luxury kitchen. Or, if you just love her albums’ vibes, we’ve created an Olivia Rodrigo decor edit.

What can we say about brown kitchen cabinet ideas – well, quite a lot actually! It's not a color you may instantly consider, but, it's warm, cozy and stylish. 

Got a small kitchen? Then embrace a brown scheme – it can be 'brown' from the wood you choose for your cabinets, or a paint shade in say chocolate or mocha. The choice is wider than you think, and brown looks really great with other shades too.

From taupe to tan, fawn to chocolate, there are plenty of brown shades you can adopt to create this scheme. 

1. It's ideal for kitchens with low ceilings

Why? Because it draws the eye down to ground level and anchors it perfectly. Then you can add a lighter tone to your walls and finish with white in the ceiling.  

"Muddy greeny brown works really nicely with softer walls and creates a brighter interior than using dark colors on cupboards and walls," says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens.

This charming kitchen has character due to the many layers – the dark brown cabinets, marble countertops, wooden floor and jute rug, it wall works together perfectly.

For a similar brown check out Benjamin Moore's Night Owl CC-662, a dark brown with green undertones. 

2. Use it on your kitchen island

You can use brown as much or as a little as you like, here, it's used sparingly on the exterior of the kitchen island. 

Its placement adds depth and interest to the scheme as it contrasts against the mid toned wood. 

Paint this part of your kitchen island with Little Greene's Scullery, it's a warm brown that will work wonderfully with a wooden cabinets. 

3. Team wood cabinets with chocolate walls

You can use wood to create your 'brown' kitchen cabinet color scheme – it comes in shades of the color in a natural way. 

We love how these rich cabinets are teamed with chocolate brown walls, and the shade of the wood is rather like a rich toffee shade, really warming and looks fabulous with the darker brown paint color. 

For three shades of brown that would work in this style of kitchen, have a look at the below. 

4. Opt for a grey brown

There are so many shades of brown you can choose from, from tan and coffee to the darker, moodier end of the scale like a gray brown. 

The darker you go the more you can create an interesting contrast within your scheme. Here, the cabinets are a gray brown and when teamed with marble countertops are a striking combination. To prevent this kind of scheme from appearing 'cool' choose a warm wood flooring. 

5. Consider fawn with white

Fawn is a great brown to consider, it's easy on the eye and goes fabulously well with white. 

"We’re seeing a big shift toward natural wood finishes for cabinetry. Rich walnuts and oaks add a nice layer of warmth that more homeowners are looking for. In our signature Soft Modern kitchens especially, the contrast of natural wood against more refined materials strikes a balance that feels contemporary and timeless," says Paul Kropp, co-founder at Bakes & Kropp.

It's contemporary and stylish and the brass hardware complements the fawn shade perfectly. If you wanted to paint your cabinets this color look at Benjamin Moore's Acorn 1125, a lovely mid brown with a hint of red. 

6. Team cacao with green

An eye-catching kitchen that features custom mahogany cabinets and windows combined with chunky marble countertops and green handmade tiles. 

The deep cacao shade created from the slatted wood cabinetry offers a rich feel that makes this kitchen feel warm and welcoming. The green tiles add an exciting dimension as they are varying shades.

Recreate this look with our three buys below. 

7. Use it on the upper cabinets

This contemporary kitchen has a nod to mid-century design with its dark wood wall cabinets. 

The deep brown shade of the finish takes your eye straight to the wall and it's highlighted by the pearlescent wall tiles that sit behind the open shelving and backsplash. 

Warm it up with a brass hanging rail and faucet. Team your wall cabinets with the same tiles, they're White Zellige from Otto Tiles & Design. 

8. Add some accents of blue and yellow

This really cool kitchen shows how you can team accent colors with brown cabinets – in this case cork. 

"The brown cabinets in Big Little Rock are crafted from natural cork, chosen for their sustainability and ability to connect the home to the breathtaking Icelandic landscape. The rich, earthy tones of the cork echo the resilience of Iceland’s birch trees, while harmonizing with the vibrant yellow island, which reflects the warmth of the midnight sun. Set against a serene blue backdrop reminiscent of Iceland’s waterfalls, the space feels both grounded in nature and refreshingly modern," says Erla Dögg Ingjaldsdóttir, co-founder of Minarc. 

Keep clutter free and let the kitchen design shine with this style of space, choose accessories in similar shades for cohesion. 

9. White is a great pairing

According to Helen Shaw, director of marketing (international) at Benjamin Moore, brown offers a calm and grounding feel. "Earthtones offer versatility and the ability to add warmth and heart into a room. Whilst pale brown tones offer a neutral finish with depth and tactility, saturated hues create a statement, lending warmth and depth to any space."

For a similar shade consider Benjamin Moore's Dash of Pepper 1554, it will have the same effect and will draw the eye down to the lovely earthy tone of the color. Helen adds, "Used on cabinetry or feature walls, rich shades are perfect for adding dramatic depth. An abundance of natural light will help reveal undertones of rich reds and warm yellows, so consider this when choosing accents."

Our brown kitchen cabinet ideas will show you how to use brown successfully on your cabinets, from barely their taupe to rich toffee, mocha and dark chocolate shades there's really something for everyone. 

A gray and white bathroom might not sound exciting. But this classic pairing has stood the test of time for good reason. When thinking about bathroom ideas, don't overlook this classic scheme! It's super versatile and timeless, blending seamlessly into any home. Plus, it gives you the perfect neutral backdrop to play with, you can add pops of color whenever you want to switch things up!

Until more recently, bathrooms have often been overlooked, sticking to safe and somewhat clinical color schemes. However, there’s a growing trend to make bathrooms a true reflection of personal style. We’ve tapped into expert advice to explore fresh ways to use this tried-and-true combination.

Whether you’re into traditional, contemporary, cozy, or ultra-modern vibes, our roundup of gray and white bathroom ideas will show you how to make this classic pairing work for your unique style.

1. Transform your walls with elegant wall paneling

For a truly elegant touch in your bathroom, why not make wall paneling the star? As Morgan Di Rocco, co-founder of Kindred Interior Design says, “Details on walls are something that are often considered in more formal living spaces but they can add an immense amount of interest and character to a space, even in a bathroom."

If you’ve got high ceilings, paneling is a great way to break up the height and bring in a secondary color, like the soft gray used here. It’s a refreshing change from marble or tile, which can sometimes make a bathroom feel a bit cold or sterile, especially if you have a lot of surface area and a large space to contend with.

If your ceilings are on the lower side and you still love the look? Paneling can work wonders by creating the illusion of taller walls.

2. Create a feature wall with marble tiles

Marble is a go-to for gray and white bathroom schemes, and it’s easy to see why. With its off-white base and delicate gray veining, it’s the perfect material to bring elegance to this color combo.

The subtle veining and smooth finish give your bathroom a polished, chic look while adding texture and depth. While marble is often associated with traditional spaces, it’s now being reimagined in cool, contemporary ways. If you want to keep things fresh, try creating a feature wall behind your basin with small hexagonal mosaic tiles instead of the usual large slabs.

This adds an interesting backdrop while sticking to the classic monochrome palette. In a modern bathroom, marble’s softness pairs beautifully with bold black accents such as this sophisticated black wall-mounted tap set from Wayfair.

3. Bring in a touch of luxury with a metallic bathtub

If you’re looking to create a luxurious retreat at home, a freestanding bathtub is an absolute must. These sculptural showpieces can instantly transform your bathroom, giving it that upscale, hotel-like vibe such as this stainless steel Japanese-style bathtub from Wayfair.

Even better, a huge amount of these freestanding tubs come in a range of customizable colors, including some stunning metallic finishes that are all the rage right now.

Silver, chrome, and other metallics work beautifully with a gray and white color scheme because they share the same cool undertones and paired with gray and white backdrops, these silvery showstoppers are a great alternative to using black as an accent and add just the right amount of contrast without overwhelming the space.

4. Add some interest with a patterned wallpaper

Wallpapering bathrooms has really taken off lately, and it’s a fantastic way to inject personality and flair into what can often be a rather boxy and uninspired space. As Morgan Di Rocco, co-founder of Kindred Interior Design puts it, "Having fun in a bathroom with wallpaper is one of our favorite things to do. It is its own entity, somewhat apart from the house, so it is the perfect area to explore different patterns and colors."

To keep your bathroom from feeling overwhelmed, especially if it’s on the smaller side, consider a feature wall or paneling to break up the space. You can take some inspiration from these bathroom accent wall ideas!

And don’t think that gray and white have to be boring, there’s a world of exciting wallpaper options out there, from simple stripes and graphic patterns to florals and textures that come in a gray and white colorway. 

5. Pair soft grays and whites with wood accents for a cozy look

Drawn to the simplicity and versatility of a gray and white color scheme but worried it might feel too cold or clinical? Try incorporating warmer shades of gray and white and adding wood accents.

A bath rack or a small stool such as this carved wood stool from Banana Republic sits beautifully next to these calming shades. Kali Gibson, Senior Brand Manager at Fireclay Tiles advises, "Play with undertones to achieve your desired look. Choosing warm white and gray will make your bathroom appear more inviting, and is a good choice if you don’t have much natural light."

Opting for warmer base colors helps keep this minimalist color scheme cozy and inviting. Adding natural wood elements can bring a touch of the outdoors inside, creating a grounding presence. Add this stone bathmat from Sutera which absorbs all the excess water left over after the shower.

As Morgan Di Ricco notes, “Pairing warm grays and whites with natural wood invites the outside in and creates a grounding presence in the bath. A coastal ambiance is achieved when you pair these soothing elements together.”

6. Keep things simple with a subtle pattern underfoot

Sometimes, simplicity really is best. While mixing and matching tones, patterns, and textures can be fun, some spaces shine with a cleaner, more streamlined look.

This sleek white bathroom with a minimalist gray bath is effortlessly chic but makes a subtle statement with a delicate pattern that is limited to the floor. Kali Gibson, Senior Brand Manager at Fireclay Tiles explains why she’s a fan of floor tiles, "Tiled floors can be the star of the show while still adding dimension and visual interest. We also love a gray and white checkered pattern. It offers a softer, modern twist on the classic black and white checkerboard."

Opting for a subtle pattern in pale grays and whites can provide just the right amount of visual interest underfoot without overwhelming the room’s soft and airy vibe.

7. Mix and match tones and materials

Far from being dull, gray is a remarkably versatile color, spanning from the softest dove gray to rich charcoal tones. While a gray-and-white combo might seem clinical at first, the variety of tones and materials available can add real depth and interest while maintaining a neutral palette.

Its natural occurrence in materials like metal and stone—such as aluminum, cast iron, chrome, marble, and granite—allows for a rich interplay of textures. This creates a space that's both subtle and visually captivating, with each material complementing the others perfectly.

Kali Gibson, Senior Brand Manager at Fireclay Tiles offers a great tip: "One thing to avoid is using too many different shades of gray that clash. If you're combining several shades, make sure they share a similar undertone, either warm or cool, to ensure the design feels intentional." For a room that feels cozy rather than stark, consider pairing a cast iron bathtub with gray marble flagstones and soft gray-painted cupboards.

A gray and white color scheme for your bathroom isn’t just timeless, it’s actually incredibly flexible. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek, modern look, a cozy classic feel, or something a bit more playful, these shades provide endless opportunities for creativity. So just because you prefer a quieter color palette, doesn't mean you have to compromise on style. With so many ways to layer textures and add interest, a gray and white palette can be as dynamic and stylish as you want it to be.

When designing a kitchen, it can feel like there are over 100 different decisions that need to be made. One of the most important ones that often gets overlooked is lighting.

You may have your main lighting source nailed but have you thought about task lighting or how you’re going to create ambience in your kitchen?

Create a cozy atmosphere with these kitchen cabinet lighting ideas that have come directly from the experts.

1. Under cabinet LED strips 

One of the key things to consider when looking at your kitchen lighting is getting the balance right between stylish and functional. You want your lights to create a beautifully soft ambience but you also want them to be practical when it comes to seeing exactly what you’re doing.

Ayten Nadeau from i-TEN Designs says, "When it comes to cabinet lighting, under-cabinet LED strip lights are more than just an option—they’re a game-changer. Imagine your kitchen countertops bathed in a soft, warm glow, inviting you in whether you're preparing a gourmet meal or enjoying a late-night snack. I choose the hardwired versions because they offer unmatched energy efficiency and reliability without the hassle of frequent maintenance."

2. Get the tone right 

When it comes to any form of kitchen lighting, it’s crucial you get the tone spot on. You’ll want to avoid a cold and sterile feel in your kitchen, so don’t go for lighting that gives off a stark white glow. Instead, choose something warmer in tone.

"Here’s the insider tip: color temperature is crucial. It’s the key to transforming your kitchen from a sterile lab to a welcoming haven. I love using 2700K to 3000K range. Going any higher can create a harsh, clinical feel that makes even the most beautiful countertops look like they’re under a microscope," explains Ayten.

3. Layer cabinet lighting 

Cabinet lighting is a wonderful source of illumination in any kitchen design. However, it would be a mistake to not think about how this is going to work with other forms of lighting in your space - layering is key!

Hannah Goldberg from Hannah Charlotte Interiors explains that "Layering light is one of our favorite ways to create more intimate spaces - nothing feels colder than a space highlighted with only recessed ceiling lights. The best kitchen lighting scheme will include a range of different types of lighting allowing you to carry out everyday tasks while also creating the perfect ambiance for relaxing or entertaining."

"Create levels of light by adding a sconce over the sink, pendants over the island, and decorative lighting over a dining area."

4. Illuminated interior

Opening a kitchen cabinet in the evening can present you with a dark space where you can’t seem to find what you’re looking for. Eliminate this problem by illuminating the inside of your kitchen cabinets.

"Now, let’s talk about puck lights—the unsung heroes of cabinet illumination. Whether surface-mounted or recessed, these little powerhouses can elevate your space. I’m particularly fond of the recessed options for that added touch of drama when opening a cabinet to reveal your favorite art piece or cherished collectible, perfectly spotlighted like it’s the star of the show. Puck lights can transform your kitchen from a functional area into a stunning showcase of style and personality," says Ayten.

5. Don’t forget your countertops! 

It’s all well and good lighting your kitchen cabinets but what about your countertops? If you feel like your workspace is lacking light then you can always add stylish task lighting to solve this issue.

Sara Malek Barney, founder and principal designer at BANDD/Design says, "I also think adding small accent lighting, like task lamps to a kitchen countertop makes the overall vibe feel warmer and softer, lending itself to a cozier feel."

6. Pair cabinet lighting with under or over lighting 

Multiple sources of light are far better than just one or two. Be creative with your kitchen lighting and pair interior cabinet lights with either under or over-cabinet lighting.

"Kitchen cabinets are a great place to conceal functional lighting. I often recommend under cabinet LED lighting for even illumination of countertops and cove or crown molding lighting to softly illuminate ceilings," explains Sarah Barnard, founder of Sarah Barnard Design.

7. Glass cabinet lighting

You may not feel the need to add spotlights inside every one of your kitchen cabinets. Instead, choose to illuminate your glass fronted cabinets to add a soft warm glow that will beautifully light your entire kitchen.

Glass cabinets usually house the most aesthetically pleasing kitchen items as you know that they are going to be on show. Make a feature out of your glass kitchen cabinets by attaching a downlight on the inside.

8. Wall lights instead of cabinetry 

Smaller kitchens can be made to feel even smaller if you surround the entire space with wall cabinetry. Try and keep your kitchen feeling light and bright by keeping wall cabinetry to a minimum.

Instead, use the wall space to showcase extra lighting. Wall lights are extremely popular right now with kitchen designers as they act as a form of ambient lighting while still being attractive to look at, unlike traditional LED spotlights or strip lights.

Try and remember to carefully plan your kitchen lighting to reflect how you want to use the space. Illuminating your kitchen cabinets, whether it be through under cupboard lighting or interior spotlights can give your kitchen design interest and depth.

Rather than focusing on one main source of light, try and incorporate lots of different light sources for a cozy and inviting kitchen design.

When it comes to bathroom ideas, have you considered a blue and gray bathroom? Independently, these two colours are classic staples of bathroom design but merged together, it's a calming combo feels inherently natural.  Definitely a desirable vibe when you're sinking into a tub and letting go of the day’s stresses! 

Blue feels fresh and clean, while gray adds a timeless versatility that pairs effortlessly with various colors and design styles, whether you’re leaning modern or traditional. Plus, gray’s classic appeal never goes out of style, making it a staple in any home. When combined, these cool tones create a harmonious and soothing environment, making them an ideal duo for crafting a spa-like retreat at home. 

Whether you prefer the smoky sophistication of charcoal and navy or the light, airy feel of subtle shades, there’s a perfect blue-gray combination for every taste.

1. Create a backsplash feature with tiling

Practical and pretty, the backsplash is one of those design elements that really deserves some extra attention. Not only does it protect your walls from water splashes behind the sink, helping to avoid damp issues later, but it’s also a fantastic opportunity to make a design statement.

If you’ve invested in a standout sink, a stylish backsplash can be the perfect way to frame it. Morgan Di Rocco, founder of Kindred Design agrees ‘ A feature backsplash of a beautiful tile can be the pièce de résistance when it comes to bathrooms, and a stunning, ornate, and interesting tile can make all the difference when you give it a place to shine, like a backsplash area’. 

In your blue and gray bathroom, why not mix things up by pairing vibrant blue tiles with weathered wood cabinets for a modern Coastal look? It’s a fresh twist on a classic style. 

You can also get creative with your tile pattern by arranging them in an unexpected sequence that can turn your backsplash into a piece of art.

2. Get creative with paint

Push the boundaries with paint and add a creative touch to your walls. While gray and blue are classic choices for bathrooms, you can refresh this traditional pairing with innovative painting techniques. Instead of applying a single color from floor to ceiling, explore new ways to integrate these colors. 

If you have a theme in mind for your bathroom, using paint creatively can help bring it to life. You don’t have to limit your design to the walls either, chalk paint such as this vibrant shade of blue from Annie Sloan, can also refresh cabinets and shelves, allowing you to extend your theme throughout the space. 

Paint Expert Annie Sloan suggests, "Try timeless paint techniques that will personalize and elevate your bathroom. Think rustic textures with two-step paint distressing, stenciling, and painterly use of color – such as blending, frottage, or ombre, rather than flat color."

3. Clever wall panelling

To bring an elegant touch to a traditional bathroom, wall paneling is a fantastic choice. While it’s usually seen in more formal living spaces, it can look great in bathrooms too. 

It has a dramatic effect in rooms with high ceilings, but even in smaller spaces, you can use paneling to your advantage. Ayten Nadeu, founder of  I-Ten Design has a handy tip when installing paneling in your bathroom, ‘"If the paneling is in your plans, commit fully. Small, frame-like panels can seem disjointed. Opt for full-room paneling with detailed trim to create a rich, cohesive look that adds sophistication." 

For example, you can add built-in shelves right into the paneling for handy storage without sacrificing style. One of the best things about wood paneling is that it’s easy to paint, so you can add a beautiful blue tone for a seamless look that combines both paneling and shelving. 

To keep things looking grown up, pair the cool gray tones in your marble with a gray-based blue paint such as this subtle shade from Sherwin Williams 

4. Bring in a moodier tone

Deeper grays and moodier blues can also make a fantastic impact if you're aiming for a more dramatic vibe in your bathroom. Or as Morgan Di Rocco, founder of Kindred Design reminds us, "Being able to escape to a dark and moodier space can provide an easier place to unwind and process all the emotions of the day, especially when accompanied by candlelight and a glass of wine in a soaking tub." 

This style is perfect for spaces with little natural light, as diving into darker tones can really enhance that moody feel. For the walls, think about using a paint effect or distressed wallpaper to complement the ombre effect on the tiles. These effects help to add depth and prevent the room from feeling flat or monotonous. To recreate the tiling, these tiles from Wayfair are a great choice for creating that moody ombre effect.

Kali Gibson, senior brand manager at Fireclay Tiles has some great tips for creating a moodier atmosphere in your space, "For a more dramatic effect, go for deeper shades of blue and gray. Rich tones like navy and charcoal can turn your bathroom into an intimate urban retreat that works really well in modern spaces."

Just remember to pay attention to lighting, texture, and balance to make the most of these rich colors.

5. Classic with a twist, try out a blue sink

Sinks, baths, and toilets are without a doubt, a key part of any bathroom, but they often get overlooked as a design feature with classic white being the usual choice. Today, though, there are so many more options out there! 

Take concrete sinks, for example, they come in a rainbow of colors and can really make a statement in a modern bathroom. But if you’re going for a more traditional look, think back to the days when colorful bathrooms were all the rage. Remember those pastel shades of porcelain sinks, baths, and toilets? 

For a fun twist on this classic style, try a pastel blue porcelain sink paired with delicate gray marble and finished with chrome taps and accessories. It’s a unique way to add a soft splash of color and create a unique talking point in your bathroom design.

6. A subtle touch with Terrazzo tiles

If you’re looking to refresh your bathroom with a modern, stylish update that goes beyond traditional tiles, terrazzo and mosaic tiles are perfect alternatives. Terrazzo, crafted from a mix of marble, quartz, glass, and other materials set into a customizable base, allows you to personalize the look to fit your style.

For a sleek monochrome design with hints of blue and gray, consider a terrazzo with a white base and speckles of blue and gray. This speckled effect adds visual texture, breaking up solid color schemes without overwhelming the space.

Mosaic tiles offer another way to elevate your bathroom design by creating distinct zones. Use a blend of blue and gray tones to craft a striking feature wall, an eye-catching backsplash, or a standout shower area. This approach not only creates a focal point but also ties your color palette together. 

Ayten Nadeu, founder of I-Ten Design suggests incorporating contrast into lighter color schemes for added depth, "Adding contrast is key. Ground the space with darker elements, like black hardware, accessories, or a bold piece of art, to break up the monochrome and add dimension."

Our blue and gray bathroom ideas prove that even classic color schemes can be exciting and fresh. While these colors might seem like a safe bet, a bit of creativity can really make them pop. 

With the right mix of shades and textures, like detailed paneling, cool tile patterns, or fun paint techniques, you can make a bold statement without going overboard. It’s all about using these versatile colors in new and inventive ways!

Kitchens are one of the most functional spaces in any home. There’s no doubt that they have to be practical but it’s important that they feel cozy and homely, too.

How do you get the balance right between style and functionality? Before renovating your kitchen you should write a list of priorities and work out how you can achieve them whilst still achieving an aesthetically pleasing kitchen that feels warm and cozy.

The experts tell us how we can create a cozy kitchen that also fulfils all of our practical needs.

Expert-approved cozy kitchen ideas

Every room in your home should feel inviting and make you want to spend time in it. There's nothing better than coming home after a long day to a cozy home that feels like your safe space.

Keep reading to discover some of the best cozy kitchen ideas to inspire you.

1. Incorporate natural materials

Designing a kitchen is a stressful process but if you’re currently deciding what kind of kitchen you want to go for and you’ve got your heart set on a cozy space then incorporate natural materials.

Marie Flanigan, founder of Marie Flanigan Interiors says, "Incorporating natural materials like stained wood for cabinetry or shelving enhances the organic, lived-in feel. Layering in soft textiles, such as linen cafe curtains or woven wood shades, can add comfort and depth to your kitchen design."

Be mindful when you’re choosing your kitchen flooring. Natural stone and reclaimed wood are beautiful options if you want to create a rustic feel.

2. Warm tones

Don’t fancy taking on an entire kitchen renovation but want to rejuvenate your space? Consider painting your walls and cabinetry in contrasting warm colors for a welcomed update.

"Adding warm tones is crucial - we encourage clients to take the leap and use a bold, rich, warm color on the cabinets - but if that's too much of a commitment soaking the walls in a rich color will do the trick. Warm woods are an excellent way to up the cozy factor of a kitchen - either in the cabinets themselves or a walnut butcher block counter," explains Hannah Goldberg from Hannah Charlotte Interiors.

3. Add living room details

This may not feel like a natural addition but trust us when we say that adding classic living room details will transform your kitchen from a solely functional space into a warm and cozy one.

"Try adding living room details to your kitchen like placing an oil painting on the wall or adding non-dining room seating. We love placing a little sofa or set of lounge chairs in a kitchen to encourage socializing while cooking - which we all can’t stop ourselves from doing," suggests Kim Gordon, founder of Kim Gordon Designs.

Another affordable way of adding character to a kitchen is to fill it with plants. Place a potted plant on your countertop and attach a couple of hanging plants to your ceiling joists.

4. Think about fixtures

Whether you’re currently designing your kitchen from scratch or thinking of ways to switch things up, think carefully about your fixtures and fittings and whether or not they fit in with the cozy vibe you want to create.

"To design a cozy kitchen, always think through the finishes and how they will age within a space. Consider adding unlacquered brass plumbing fixtures or hardware that will develop a beautiful patina over time, adding warmth and character to the space," says Marie.

Match your choice of hardware and taps with other elements in your kitchen such as the brackets for your open shelving.

5. Soft textures

Break up the harsh lines of a kitchen by introducing an abundance of texture. This can be done in lots of different ways, including rugs, soft furnishings, and the latest kitchen trend, sink curtains.

"The soft texture provided by fabric creates an amazing contrast with the otherwise hard finishes of kitchens. Classic ways to incorporate fabrics into your kitchen are in window treatments like cafe curtains or a beautiful Roman shade; or a statement banquette upholstery. To add an extra layer of textiles consider adding a sink curtain," says Hannah.

6. Layer lighting

You may not have considered how much lighting affects the coziness of your kitchen. As soon as the evening rolls around, you’ll want your kitchen space to be lit beautifully. In order to do this, you should layer different light sources.

"Layering light is one of our favorite ways to create more intimate spaces - nothing feels colder than a space highlighted with only recessed ceiling lights," explains Hannah.

"The best kitchen lighting scheme will include a range of different types of lighting allowing you to carry out everyday tasks while also creating the perfect ambiance for relaxing or entertaining. Create levels of light by adding a sconce over the sink, pendants over the island, and decorative lighting over a dining area."

7. Be sure to declutter

A clean, clutter-free kitchen sets the foundation for coziness. Clear your countertops of non-essentials and keep only what you use on a daily basis.

"Visual appeal is equally important. Declutter your kitchen and use the freed-up space to add touches of warmth: a lush plant, a bouquet of fresh flowers, or seasonal décor. As the seasons change, a vase of autumn leaves or a small pine arrangement brings in a cozy, seasonal vibe," explains Ayten.

"The tactile experience can’t be overlooked. Enjoy the feel of a well-maintained countertop by keeping surfaces clean and smooth. Set the mood with soft, ambient music—gentle melodies can turn your kitchen into the most relaxing spot in your home."

8. Don’t forget about the accessories

"Lastly, evoke nostalgia with a charming display on your kitchen island or countertop. Arrange elegant glassware, a plate of homemade treats, and a few cherished dishes. Swap out bright sponges for sleek white ones, use a stylish soap dispenser, and make sure there are no dirty dishes or trash in sight," says Ayten.

You can’t underestimate the power of the finishing touches. The design of your kitchen is the foundation of your scheme but it’s the finer details that will create a cozy atmosphere.

Cozy kitchens are bang on trend. Taking inspiration from farmhouse, country-style kitchens, adding warmth and texture is key.

Start with the basics and declutter your kitchen to achieve a state of zen. Build upon this with your choice of lighting, accessories and decor for that ultimate cozy feel.

I love Selling Sunset. The outrageous office outfits. The drama. The gorgeous houses. I'm here for it all! It turns out that it's not just the homes in the show that are beautiful — the homes of the realtors are, too.

I spotted Chrishell Stause posing in her entryway on Instagram and I loved how she brought her eye for staging chicly into her own space. I've asked interior designers why her neutral color palette, glam mirror, and fun bar cart all work well and how you can copy the look at home.

If you're looking for entryway ideas, Chrishell's space is a beautiful example of how to create an inviting space that doesn't compromise on style.

Whether you’re in need of small entryway ideas or big ones, all of these spaces will benefit from a full-length mirror like Chrishell’s — perfect for last minute outfit checks.

“The rounded edges of the mirror create an open flow, accentuating the architectural details of the space,” explains Pam Hutter, designer and principal of Hutter Architects.

“Chrishell's mirror is an excellent choice, making the entryway appear more spacious while softening the edges,” agrees Nick Chatzigeorgakis, interior designer at Intrabuild. “The gold details on the mirror and bar cart provide warmth without overpowering the neutral color scheme,” he adds.

He continues, “For clients, I frequently suggest a bar cart or table to give guests a place to set keys and bags, also acting as a decorative space to add warmth with bar cart accessories such as a vase of flowers or books.”

If you want to achieve a look similar to Chrishell’s, Pam suggests placing a mirror in a location that highlights the best features of the space.

“Incorporate metallic accents, like a bar cart, side table or mirror frame finished in gold or brass,” she suggests.

Finally, Pam says to finish off by keeping walls and major furnishings in a neutral color palette of beiges, grays, and whites to allow these touches to shine through.

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With just a few thoughtful, standout accessories and incorporating neutral shades, you can create an entryway that shimmers just like Chrishell’s.

“The end result is a chic yet cozy entryway that’s perfect for creating a stylish first impression,” Pam finishes by saying.

Want to see more homes of the Selling Sunset stars? I love Mary Fitzgerald’s living room, which is a quiet luxury dream.

As the content editor at Real Homes, I'm always looking out for the latest trends. Some of them make perfect sense and some of them are very surprising. The fridgescaping trend falls into the latter of these categories, but I've been nonetheless fascinated by it.

I've seen it all over my TikTok and Instagram feeds, so I had to find out what it's about, the pros and cons, and top tips for trying it if you're that way inclined. I've spoken with fridgescaping influencer Lynzi Judish, as well as a kitchen expert, to get the lowdown.

For those searching for kitchen trends to bring into your cooking space, this is one of the quirkiest ones I've seen this year.

What is fridgescaping?

“Fridgescaping is the art of organizing and styling the inside of a refrigerator to be visually appealing,” says Janice Page, interior designer and owner of PKsurroundings.

“Think of it as interior design for your fridge, involving careful placement of items in aesthetically pleasing ways, using matching decor and even color coordination to create a sense of harmony,” she adds.

The pros of fridgescaping

For those who are creative and love bringing interior design trends into their homes in fun ways, fridgescaping could be worth trying.

“I particularly love tablescaping and fridgescaping is very similar to that,” says Lynzi Judish, fridgescaper and influencer at @lynziliving.

She continues, “I’ve also become very obsessed with produce after this ranging from growing it to cooking it, so displaying it in a beautiful way that encourages me to eat healthy has become a real fun aspect of the process.”

Lynzi adds that she’s had lots of other people comment that it helps them to eat healthy, as it stops them wasting produce and displays it in an enticing way.

“Others say it’s a way to romanticize your life and to breathe some new life into a piece of your home that’s usually pretty mundane,” she adds. Lynzi also loves the dopamine decor hit of opening the fridge and seeing food looking more aesthetically pleasing.

As well as this, she says it’s a great way to stay on top of cleaning your fridge. “It’s so easy to maintain keeping it tidy in this process,” she adds.

Plus, Lynzi says it’s a very thrift-friendly hobby, as you can find budget-friendly decor in secondhand furniture stores.

The cons of fridgescaping

One of the big cons is that some of the food that you display out in the open, rather than in containers, will ripen much quicker.

“Berries are probably at the top of that list, so you need to prioritize them and eat them quickly. It’s definitely more time-consuming than just throwing food in the refrigerator when you get home from the grocery store,” Lynzi says.

“Setting up and maintaining a fridgescaped refrigerator requires time and regular upkeep, which might not be practical for everyone,” Janice agrees.

As well as this, Lynzi says It might be a little bit inconvenient, depending on how you design the refrigerator, meaning you might have to shift things around to get to something else.

“I also think that someone who doesn’t actually eat all of their produce might have more food waste,” she adds.

Top tips for fridgescaping

Want to try this at home? These are Lynzi’s top tips for fridgescaping:

• Take it slow: “Start slowly by using items that you might use anyway. For example, most people will have their butter or eggs out in the refrigerator anyway, so a cute butter dish and egg crate are good starts.”
• Meal plan: “I recommend making a meal plan before shopping so you have a good grasp of what you have and don’t over-shop just to make your refrigerator look pretty.”
• Choose the right containers: “Not all containers that look like they could work for fridgescaping are right for food storage. Testing is important if you’re using old antique pieces. You don’t want to give yourself lead poisoning because you left asparagus in a vase for two weeks. Or, if you’re buying something online, it should say it in the manufacturing notes if it’s not food safe.”
• Carefully place items: “Things like apples are heavy ethylene producers and tend to make things ripen quicker and certain veggies are very sensitive to ethylene, so you wouldn’t want to store them next to each other.”
• Avoid cross-contamination: “You want to be careful about cross-contamination, like not leaving meat out in the open uncovered or making sure you clean up spills right away.”

Fridgescaping buys

If you decide to try fridgescaping, make sure you’re enjoying yourself while doing it, rather than doing it to jump on a trend.

“Just have fun with it — at the end of the day, it’s not that serious and if this doesn’t bring you joy, please don’t feel any pressure to do it. That defeats the purpose!” Lynzi finishes by saying.

Want to carry on scoping out more popular styles? The frazzled English woman trend is one of the most popular TikTok trends right now.

I think the living room is the most important room of a house. It's the room that guests see the most, so it has got to have major wow-factor. Dakota Fanning clearly agrees with me, as her one has plenty of eye-catching features.

With the actor's new movie The Watchers coming out, I took the opportunity to have a look through her Instagram and stumbled across a gorgeous picture of her living room. I've asked interior designers why her pop of unexpected red, mural, open layout and more work so well, plus how to get the look at home.

If you're looking for living room ideas that are easy to do yet oh-so-elegant, Dakota's place offers so much inspiration.

Dakota’s room is sophisticated yet inviting, thanks to its balance of bold colors with nature-inspired elements, which is encouraged by a subtle red, white, and blue theme.

“The living room features a deep blue fireplace mantel and wainscoting that extends into the dining room, adding a cohesive sense of depth and elegance to the space,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

“This is beautifully contrasted by a large, plush red couch that injects a bold, vibrant energy into the space,” Nina adds.

This is a great example of the unexpected red theory, which is one of the biggest interior design trends this year. “To get a similar look, choose a colorful sofa or armchair and build the room's palette around it,” suggests Bob Berriz, interior designer and owner of Berriz Design.

Above the fireplace, a large artwork in shades of red, white, and blue anchors the space, subtly echoing the room’s color scheme. “Flanked by white-shaded sconces, the piece draws attention without overwhelming the room, serving as a tasteful focal point,” Nina explains.

Moving across from this, the dining room walls are adorned with a stunning tree-filled landscape mural. Nina continues, “The mural’s organic feel is perfectly complemented by a burlwood dining table, which adds warmth and texture to the room.”

For small rooms, Bob says strategically placed accent walls or murals draw the eye, creating an illusion of more space.

This is all beautifully highlighted by the striking chandelier hanging above, which is a smart way to make a small space look luxe. “The chandelier, while eye-catching, is designed not to compete with the mural, instead allowing the art and furniture to shine,” Nina explains.

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In Dakota Fanning’s living room, every detail has been thoughtfully considered.

“This has resulted in a space that is as stylish as it is comfortable — a true reflection of her refined taste and appreciation for the beauty of nature,” Nina finishes by saying.

Want to carry on looking at luxe-looking spaces? I also love Lewis Hamilton’s living room, which deserves a place on the interior design podium.

If you’re in the midst of designing your dream kitchen or are planning to renovate yours sometime in the future, you might want to bear Kylie Kelce’s kitchen design in mind as you do so.

The mom of three and wife of Jason Kelce took to her Instagram to showcase her thoughtfully designed kitchen in a recent Reel and it really highlighted the importance of being able to move around your space freely, while making the most of the area you have to work with.

In terms of kitchen layout ideas, Kylie’s gone for an island layout, making this the heart of the room, with it being ideally located to allow you to wash veggies, prep food, do dishes, and grab essentials from the refrigerator. But there’s also room for a separate dining area and breakfast bar seating.

According to Rossella Marzocchella, kitchen expert at Decor and Decor, “Kylie's kitchen flows well and makes the most of the space that they have at hand.” This is because it follows what is known as the golden or kitchen triangle layout.

This “triangle is based on keeping the cooker, sink, and refrigerator close together to optimize your time in the kitchen by allowing you to move between preparing your food, cooking, and cleaning efficiently,” Rossella explains.

Unlike some other celebrity homes, which only serve as design inspiration instead of us actually being able to imagine ourselves in them, the Kelce family’s looks like a typical busy family kitchen, which we love. It also has a timeless appearance to it thanks to its clean white cabinetry and marble countertops.

“Kylie’s kitchen has access points in two places, as well as the ability to be able to move around the rest of the kitchen without having to enter the main cook and food prep space, which is what you want for a busy kitchen with young children,” suggests Richard Davonport, Managing Director at Davonport. And we have to agree.

Get the look

Black kitchens are not for the faint-hearted but they don’t have to be as intimidating as you think. Are you currently trying to figure out the best kitchen cabinet color for your upcoming renovation and are tempted to go over to the dark side?

If this is you then we’ve got some of the best tips from the kitchen experts who tell us the most stylish ways to design and decorate a black kitchen.

Everything from the best color pairings to tile choices and fun paint techniques.

1. Contrasting interior

There’s no shying away from the fact that black kitchen cabinets will make a room feel darker than white kitchen cabinets would. However, they offer a great opportunity to be fun and playful with your design.

Tom Howley, creative design director at Tom Howley Kitchens says, "Dark and dramatic paint colors such as black have a way of adding ambiance and sophistication to a space. Dark shades can come across as intimidating, however, it’s the way you use them that changes the feel. Used on the main run of base and wall cabinetry, dark colors can look luxurious and courageous while still having a timeless appeal."

A contemporary way of adding interest to a black kitchen is to paint the interior of your kitchen cabinets. You can choose any bright pop of color that you like to add a fun surprise to your cabinetry. This is sure to make you smile every time you go to use your kitchen.

2. Pair with light colored tiles

Other than the cabinetry, your choice of wall coverings is probably the second most important design element you’re going to pick for your kitchen.

If your heart is set on black cabinets then you should consider choosing light tiles to adorn your walls with as this will create a welcomed contrast. "Black kitchen cabinets can feel surprisingly warm and cozy when paired with light tiles, warm woods, or brick details," says Sarah Barnard, founder of Sarah Barnard Design.

There are so many different tile designs to choose from, everything from mosaic to herringbone, make sure to pick a style that’s right for you and your kitchen.

3. Color drench in black

Not too scared to go dark and dramatic? Then you may want to think about color drenching your kitchen with black cabinetry and walls (and perhaps even the ceiling)!

"Cozy or chic, soft or bold, black is surprisingly versatile and can complement any style of kitchen from traditional to modern. Using black paint, whether just a touch or a whole room, can have a tremendous visual impact and create a focal point.  For an undeniable statement, apply this bold hue across all kitchen cabinetry and walls," suggests Helen Shaw, marketing director at Benjamin Moore.

This will create a dramatic and luxurious setting but also be warm and inviting for when you have friends and family over.

4. Pair black cabinets with chrome 

You may initially think that black only comes in one shade, however, like any other color, black can have different undertones. If your black kitchen cabinets have a blue undertone then they will make the room feel naturally cooler when it’s flooded with natural light.

"Blacks with blue undertones feel slightly cooler and work well with metallic finishes like chrome," explains Helen. Think about this when you're shopping for your kitchen tap and handles.

5. Green undertone for an outdoor feel

"Alternatively, black kitchen cabinets that boast a green undertone work well in spaces with lush kitchen gardens as the paint will pick up the cast from the light as it reflects off the trees and plants," Helen goes on to say.

Black kitchen cabinets with a green undertone look fabulous paired with brushed brass hardware. The warmth of the brass complements the green perfectly and will give your kitchen an elegant and luxurious feel.

6. Play with texture

A run of black kitchen cabinetry can sometimes look quite flat. Don’t let this be the case in your kitchen and opt for a fluted cupboard door design.

You don’t have to have this design on all of your cabinets but choose either a pantry cupboard or an island to have a fluted finish to make it into a real stand out feature of the room.

7. Choose copper worktops

Chances are that if you’re planning on a black kitchen then you’re not afraid of taking risks when it comes to decorating your home. Rather than opting for the standard laminate or quartz, choose a more unique option to complement your black cabinetry such as an aged copper work surface.

"Bold, daring, and elegant, but actually a very traditional choice for kitchen furniture, black is surprisingly gentle and soft and can give a very pared back and comfortable feel to a room. Add some aged copper worktops and you have instant understated glamor," says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens.

8. Go for a black island

A black kitchen can run the risk of feeling dark and oppressive if it’s not right for the space. Avoid this from happening and go for a black kitchen island or feature instead.

"Black kitchen cabinets can also be an impactful design element when used sparingly, like for a kitchen island or range hood," explains Sarah. So, if you love the idea of black cabinetry but don’t want to fully commit, then use black as a statement feature rather than for the whole design.

9. Chalkboard walls instead of cabinetry

Another innovative way of incorporating black into your kitchen design is to keep your base cabinets black but adorn your walls with black chalkboard paint.

Black wall cabinetry can naturally feel quite heavy. Keep your walls feeling open and spacious by opting for open shelving instead and painting the walls with chalkboard paint. This not only feels cohesive with the rest of your black color scheme but you’ll be able to personalise your kitchen walls - how fun!

Black is a bold color and that can’t be underestimated. However, there are lots of different ways to incorporate it into your kitchen design using your cabinetry that isn’t too scary.

Use black as a basis for your design and use other key elements to contrast against it. Or, if you’re feeling brave, color drench your entire kitchen in black for a scheme that truly has the wow-factor.

Those of us who love to pack up our van or vehicle and go camping will know how tricky it can be to cook on the go. While we can’t get enough of toasting some s'mores over an open fire, making proper meals can be a bit more difficult, especially as you don’t always want to have to lug lots of camping equipment around with you.

But Jennifer Garner might have just shown us the perfect solution for our next camping trip. The same can also be said if you’re looking for some of the best small kitchen appliances that don’t take up a lot of space on your countertops.

We’re already big fans of what Jennifer calls her ‘Pretend Cooking Show’ on Instagram and for the latest episode of her fun and relaxed cooking segment, she brings it to us from a campsite. So, if you’ve got any upcoming camping trips planned, you’ll definitely want to tune in.

During the video, the actress and mom of three, takes her fans through the process of making some crispy hash browns, which look mouth-wateringly good. And she even shared the exact recipe with her almost 17 million followers. But it’s the two cooking appliances that she used that really caught our eye.

As she starts to prepare the dish, she uses KitchenAid’s Go Cordless Food Chopper to chop up her potatoes before adding some seasoning, cheese, and a good amount of butter, crisping them to perfection on the campsite’s grill. But you’ll also want something to drink with your morning meal, which is when she quickly swaps the removable battery pack from the Food Chopper to the KitchenAid Go Cordless Personal Blender, allowing her to quickly whip up a tasty smoothie to enjoy with her breakfast.

Essentially, one battery can power a number of different appliances, saving you from having to worry about finding somewhere to connect to a power outlet, which is why it’s such a genius solution for cooking outdoors.

Once you’ve bought one of the appliances with the battery included, you can buy any future KitchenAid Go devices without the battery to save you some cash in the long run. Or, if you’re anything like us, you can never have too many battery packs when you’re on-the-go.

Jen also admits that you can swap out the battery to even more devices, as and when you need to, from their Cordless Hand Mixer to their Cordless Kitchen Vacuum. How convenient is that?

Let’s just say, we definitely need to try it out on our next camping trip. And think how good it would be for prepping food on your kitchen island, without having to worry about trailing wires everywhere.

When I lived at college, I didn't always want to make the journey to the kitchen whenever I wanted to make tea or coffee. I also wanted to keep my good snacks away from my flatmates. So, I had a little fridge in my room, and always highly recommend that new students grab one.

I've been looking for ones that are powerful and will add to dorm room decor, and I think I've found a winner in the Frigidaire Portable Fridge from Amazon. I've delved into why it's a great pick, asked experts why mini fridges are useful, plus picked out alternatives. “Mini fridges are perfect for storing basics like drinks, snacks, and leftovers when a standard refrigerator isn't practical,” says Bob Berriz, design expert and owner of Berriz Design.

If you're looking for mini fridges that are perfect for dorms, this cute pick will brighten up your college room.

See the Frigidaire Portable Fridge

If you’re looking for chic and clever dorm room ideas, this mini fridge is a really smart choice. It has a retro design which is one of the biggest interior design trends this year, as well as being plenty powerful enough to chill 26-28 smaller items, thanks to its thermoelectric cooling system.

Over 11,000 Amazon shoppers have given it five star reviews because of its size and appearance, as well as how cold it keeps items. Shopper iFish bought it to keep cans of flavored water cold, but now also uses it to keep small containers of leftovers — perfect for midnight snacks.

As well as having it in your dorm, you can also take it on the go. Reviewer Been There is a fan of the two cords it comes with is so helpful to have 2 cords — one for the house outlet and an accessory cord for the car. They used it on their road trip and found it kept food cool throughout.

“The retro design adds a stylish touch to a room, and with a 4-liter capacity, this fridge can chill six 12 oz cans or store snacks and small food items,” explains Andy Shu, appliance expert and fixer at Zapfixers. “It's great for students who want easy access to cold drinks, quick snacks, or even to store some perishable items like fruits, yogurt, or sandwiches.”

Other factors to consider when buying a mini fridge

I love the look of this one, but if you want to look for alternatives to this dorm room decor, there are a few things worth considering. “For a single person, the Frigidaire model in the question would work great. I'd recommend a larger 3.2 cubic foot model if you’re sharing with your roommate,” says Bob.

He also says proper ventilation and maintenance are key for mini fridges, so it's worth making sure you can do this before buying one. “They generate a lot of heat in small areas, so allowing for airflow is important.”

It's also a good idea to defrost them regularly and clean the door seals to improve efficiency. “Wiping down the exterior and cleaning up spills right away will help the unit run better and last longer,” Bob explains.

More mini fridges

Choosing a mini fridge such as this one will make dorm living so much easier.

“Mini fridges are convenient, eco-friendly, and have flexible power options for use at home or on the go. Just remember to maintain them well for the best performance,” Andy finishes by saying.

If you want to scout out more useful college picks, my surprising dorm essentials are also worth checking out.

When it comes to style that's casual yet totally chic, Hailey Bieber always nails it every single time. She not only has brought this into her fashion aesthetic, but has incorporated it into her home.

I had a look back through her YouTube channel and stumbled on her kitchen tour which showcases her relaxed cooking space. I've asked interior designers why they love the look and how to copy it at home. “Hailey Bieber's kitchen is the epitome of California cool, with the warm marble countertops, brushed onyx hood, and organized chaos,” says Samantha Tosti, interior designer and co-owner of Tosti Design.

If you're looking for kitchen ideas that are as pretty as they are practical, Hailey (and Justin's!) place has plenty to inspire you.

This kitchen is a fine example of how to nail that celebrity ‘wow’ factor while folding in practical kitchen appliances and kitchen storage solutions.

“When you look at it, the first thing that jumps out is the marble splashback and countertop,” says Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty. “It's got this clean, sleek look that instantly makes the space feel upscale.”

Rachel adds that the marble isn’t just for show. “It's tough and heat-resistant, making it perfect for a kitchen where things are always happening.”

This luxe-looking material that lines the kitchen island, countertop, and splashback is complemented by the more rustic-style storage jars and artwork. “The artwork and exposed spice rack add to the homey feel, while the funky custom details such as the integrated marble sink and raked counter edge elevate the design to add just a touch of Hollywood glamor,” explains Samantha.

If you like these jars as much as I do, the Dimbrah Spice Jars from Amazon are very similar and come with stylish labels.

In addition to this, she has gorgeous black appliances and cookware, such as her Vitamix and Hexclad pan. “They're sleek and modern, adding a bit of edge to the space,” says Rachel. “They don't just look good; they're also practical, as they show fewer smudges and dirt than stainless steel.”

If you want to steal Hailey’s vibe in your place — whether you’re looking for big or small kitchen ideas — it's about mixing that wow factor with everyday practicality.

“You don't need to go all out with marble everywhere; maybe just the countertops or an island,” says Rachel. “Swap in a few black appliances for that modern touch. And those labeled jars? They’re an easy upgrade that keeps things tidy and looks great.”

Shop the look

By focusing on elements that add both style and function, Hailey has created a kitchen that looks great and works everyday needs.

“The overall effect is that of a well loved kitchen that has the ability to dress up or dress down,” Sam finishes by saying.

Want to see home inspo from her? We also love Hailey Bieber’s office here at Real Homes, as it’s super chic and minimalist.

Renovating a kitchen is one of the biggest investments you’ll likely ever make, so you’ll want to get it right!

If you’re currently going back and forth on kitchen cabinet ideas and you’re not quite sure which direction to go in, then we’ve got some white kitchen inspiration that is sure to kickstart your design process.

We speak to the experts who tell us some of their favorite white kitchen cabinet ideas and why it’s both a stylish and functional choice for your kitchen.

1. Contrasting worktops

White kitchens are a timeless choice but how can you avoid them looking stark and uninspiring? When choosing your worktop, try not to opt for a white quartz or laminate, opt for a contrasting color instead.

Sarah Barnard, founder of Sarah Barnard Designs says, "White kitchen cabinets are a timeless solution in contemporary and traditional kitchens. Countertops in saturated tones, like green soapstone, make for a striking contrast against the bright white cabinetry."

There are lots of different contrasting worktop options that complements a white kitchen including solid oak, darker quartz, and granite.

2. Versatile fittings

White kitchen cabinetry is the perfect blank canvas to let other elements of your kitchen design sing. If you’re more of a minimalist, white cabinetry will be the ideal choice for you as you’ll be able to hone in on the finer details.

"White is the easiest of colors to work with and goes perfectly with light and dark worktops, brass or silver fittings, and traditional or contemporary settings. A firm favorite with everyone and sometimes there is nothing more beautiful than keeping it simple," explains Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens.

Depending on your style, you can opt for chrome, brass, copper, or black fixtures and fittings. For a more traditional look, brushed brass is a great choice, or for a contemporary kitchen, matte black works really well.

3. Create a clean aesthetic

White kitchen cabinets are ideal for creating a clean and seamless look. When choosing the specific design of your cabinetry, a traditional shaker-style kitchen with no extra detailing or beading is a popular choice for minimalists.

"Transcendent and timeless, white’s versatility is unrivaled and continues to be a popular choice in kitchens for people looking for a minimalistic and uncluttered look. Whites with red or yellow undertones will avoid the clinical feel of a pure brilliant white, while still creating a clean and understated look," says Helen Shaw, director of marketing at Benjamin Moore.

4. Colorful accents  

White definitely doesn’t have to mean boring. The biggest concern when choosing white kitchen cabinets is running the risk of your kitchen looking to flat or sterile. This certainly doesn’t have to be the case as long as you decorate the rest of your kitchen in a fun and interesting way.

"Add visual spice to a white kitchen by painting elements such as the cooker hood or light fittings with contrasting and energizing shades. Defining these decorative features with zingy hues is quick, easy, and will instantly lift the space," suggests Helen.

5. Add depth 

You may be stuck for ideas on how to add visual interest to a white kitchen. The key is to focus on depth. But, how do you create it?

A great idea is to use a darker color to contrast against the white. "Opting for white cabinets provides a perfect opportunity to introduce more saturated colors to walls or accessories to add depth. Bold colors such as deep burgundy or terracotta will create a rustic warm design style, whereas deep greens or navy will provide a crisp contrast to the cool white cabinets, achieving a more contemporary feel," explains Helen.

6. Subtle detailing

If you’ve decided on white kitchen cabinets but are not sure what specific look to go for, then have you considered a simple cabinet design that feels modern and contemporary? You can easily style up plain white kitchen cabinets with your choice of handles and other details.

Mor Krisher, head of product design at Caesarstone states, "Natural yet sophisticated, lighter colors such as beiges, greys, and whites promise to bring a serene and calm feel to a kitchen. Utterly timeless, these hues can make a quiet statement on their own through subtle detailing."

Other ways you can add subtle detailing include your choice of flooring, backsplash, and decor.

7. Make a small kitchen feel bigger

Use all-white kitchen cabinets in a smaller kitchen space to make it appear bigger than it really is. The color white will naturally bounce light around the room and will keep it feeling bright.

"Timeless white kitchens are a big trend this year. We've seen a shift from the bustle of commuting to the office into a work-from-home lifestyle. Because of this extra time we spend in our homes we need them to feel that much roomier, lighter, and brighter. White kitchens do this perfectly, they offer a transformative aesthetic to any size room and perfectly master the art of illusion making smaller rooms feel bigger," says Tom Howley, founder and creative design director at Tom Howley.

8. Farmhouse kitchen

Design a white kitchen to give it a farmhouse vibe and feel. This more traditional type of design will stand the test of time. Pair white kitchen cabinets with an oak worktop and natural stone flooring for a match made in heaven.

If you already have a working kitchen that doesn’t need to be completely renovated, consider painting your current kitchen cabinets white for an uplifting refresh. Finish a white farmhouse-style kitchen with rustic accessories and decor.

There’s no doubt that white is one of the most popular choices when it comes to kitchen cabinetry. We totally understand why as it’s such a versatile shade and can be paired with lots of different contrasting elements.

Be mindful that you don’t want your white kitchen to feel stark and sterile, so planning your other components carefully such as your worktop and flooring is key.

I love everything fall, so I've been looking for ways to bring it into every room in my house. Feel the same way? You'll be pleased to know there are even ways you can incorporate it into your bathroom.

I've asked interior designers for their favorite ways to do this, and I'm in love with their suggestions. Incorporating earthy colors and textures, seasonal touches, and fresh elements are just some of their top tips.

If you're looking for fall home decor ideas and want to go big on the season in your bathroom, there are so many fun ways to do just that.

1. Bring in fall colors

Color plays a crucial role in setting the mood for fall, so it makes sense to incorporate these into your bathroom ideas for this season.

“Introducing autumn hues through accessories like towels, rugs, and shower curtains can dramatically transform the bathroom's ambiance,” explains Ryan Fitzgerald, design expert and owner of Raleigh Realty.

“Rich colors such as burgundy, forest green, or warm gold can enhance the fall vibe without requiring a complete overhaul of your decor,” he adds.

If you’re in love with these hues, you can also consider painting or tiling your bathroom with these shades, as well as choosing hardware like faucets and handles in them.

2. Add cozy candles

Dreamy home fragrances and soft lighting are powerful tools for creating a seasonal atmosphere.

“Candles in fall scents like vanilla and cinnamon can evoke the essence of autumn, while metallic accents like copper or gold candlesticks bring a modern touch to the decor,” says Ryan.

He adds that varying the heights of candle holders can create an interesting visual effect.

3. Try adding wooden textures

As well as bringing in earthy colors, you can also bring in warm textures to create a rustic feel that’s.

“When it comes to fall bathroom decor, it's all about embracing natural textures to create a cozy atmosphere,” says Tommy Mello, design expert and founder of A1 Garage Door Service.

He continues, “I recommend incorporating wooden accents like trays, shelves, or even a wooden-framed mirror.”

I really love this idea because not only will wood work for fall, but it’s also versatile enough to have in your bathroom at all times of the year. For example, the Noble House Koda Modern Round Mirror from Walmart is modern and is hand-crafted.

4. Go for seasonal touches

There are so many naturally beautiful elements that come to life in fall, which you can celebrate by bringing them into your bathroom.

“One of the simplest ways to achieve this is by incorporating pumpkins and gourds into your bathroom design,” says Ryan.

These quintessential fall fruits can be placed on countertops or shelves, adding a touch of seasonal charm.

For a more subtle approach, he suggests hanging a garland made of fall leaves and acorns on a window curtain rod.

5. Finish with fresh flowers

You can compliment seasonal touches with fresh flowers, in order to bring life and add home fragrance.

“Arranging autumn flowers like sunflowers or marigolds in a vase brings a vibrant, seasonal touch to the space,” says Ryan.

Place these in colorful glass vases in fall colors like orange, purple, and yellow to really make them pop. I think this adorable Harvest Glass Bud Vase from Anthropologie, which is shaped like a little onion, would be perfect for this.

When styling your fall bathroom decor, remember that balance is key. Make sure to group items in odd numbers for visual appeal, mix textures to add depth, and avoid overcrowding surfaces.

“By thoughtfully incorporating these elements, you can transform your bathroom into a cozy autumn retreat that reflects the warmth and beauty of the season,” Ryan finishes by saying.

Want to carry on sprinkling the season into your home? I also love fall kitchen ideas and fall living room ideas, which are so sweet and snug.

If, like us, you can’t start your day without your morning coffee, Ninja has just released its very first barista-style coffee machine. And we could not be more excited.

Priced at $499.99, the Luxe Café Espresso Machine is Ninja’s first foray into the world of luxury espresso machines. And while it is more expensive than many of the best coffee machines, it’s actually rather competitively priced when you compare it to similar espresso machines, with some of them not having as many features as this one does.

Ninja Luxe Cafe espresso machine

So, if you’ve been weighing up an espresso machine vs a coffee maker, particularly if you’re a fan of both types of hot drink, you can make both with ease with this 3-in-1 device.

And if there’s one brand that we trust when it comes to their appliances it’s Ninja. From their brilliant range of air fryers, that we now frankly can’t live without, to the viral Ninja Creami and the impressive Detect Duo Power Blender Pro, they have quickly become some of the most used and relied upon appliances in our homes.

So, here’s everything you need to know about the brand new Ninja Luxe Café Espresso Machine…

Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or are simply looking to save some money in the long run by making your coffee at home, instead of forking out hundreds of dollars each year at your local coffee shop, Ninja’s latest kitchen appliance is easy to follow, and use.

Not only does it take all the guesswork out of making espresso, it also has a rapid cold brew maker – perfect for the warmer weather – and it allows you to make drip coffee, with Ninja’s "Barista Assist Technology" guiding you through everything from the grind size to any brewing adjustments, to produce the perfect cup. In doing so, it basically takes all the guesswork out of making a cup for yourself or your family and friends.

Then there’s the built-in Dual Froth System which combines whisking and steaming to make four different preset milk options, including cold foam, steamed milk and thin and thick froths, with them all working with dairy and plant-based milks.

Depending on your day and if you’re heading into the office or relaxing on a chilled-out Sunday morning, it can make cold brew and drip coffee from a 6oz. cup through to an 18 oz. size.

Here are just a few of the settings:

Espresso – from double to quad shot

Drip coffee – classic, rich or over ice

Cold Brew – whether you prefer a cold-pressed espresso or a cold-brew coffee

You can even use it to make espresso martinis! Imagine how popular you’ll be at your next dinner party or girl’s night.

And for those of us who may be short on kitchen countertop space, the Ninja Luxe Café Espresso Machine essentially does the job of three different coffee makers in one, which not only saves you space but also stops you from having to buy three separate appliances, plus the costs that would come from doing so.

MORE ESPRESSO MACHINES TO TRY

I love bringing fall into my kitchen. Whether I'm baking apple pie, lighting sweet candles, or decorating with seasonal styles, I always have a good time in this room this season.

If you want to go for all the cozy vibes this season, I've got you covered with a range of useful tips from designers. “My favorite part of fall is the outdoors — the colorful leaves, crisp air, and golden sunlight,” explains Kim Morris, interior designer and founder of Kimberly Morris Interiors. “When I’m decorating for fall, I like to bring the beauty and vibe that is happening outside in as much as possible.”

For those looking for fall decor ideas that are perfect for cooking spaces, these easy tips and tricks are seriously stylish.

1. Decorate with outdoor foliage

While I am a fan of fall home decor buys, for those on a budget or looking to quickly bring the season, it’s worth knowing that some of the prettiest decorations are actually on your doorstep.

“After confirming my client is ok with it, I’ll just clip a small branch from one of their trees in the backyard when the leaves have turned color but aren’t yet crispy,” explains Kim.

“I’ll put it in a large glass vase on the kitchen counter or island, and it becomes such an impactful focal point,” she adds.

If your trees aren’t big enough to cut, Kim suggests grabbing some faux branches from a retailer like Afloral or Michaels. “They have an array of realistic faux options on sale now that you can reuse and repurpose without trimming your trees.”

2. Switch up materials

I’m a huge fan of switching out my fabrics between seasons to subtly change how a room feels — but I’m now going to be using Kim’s tip of switching harder materials, too.

“I love to switch out canisters, vases, and decor in the kitchen with warmer metals (like brass or copper), deeper-toned wood (like walnut), and neutral-toned kitchen towels,” explains Kim.

“I’ll display a client’s cutting board collection on the counter to add some natural wood tones, swap out salt and pepper shakers with beautiful brass ones, and drape cream and taupe colored towels over the oven and dishwasher handles to amp up the cozy factor,” she says.

None of these alone are expensive or complex, but when you do them all together, Kim says this will bring out the best parts of the season in an obvious but not kitschy way.

3. Incorporate fall colors

Whether you go down the route of classic oranges and burgundies or more subtle greens and browns (which are top fall trends for this year), color is a must for fall homes.

“Color plays a significant role in fall kitchen decor, and opting for a warm earth tone palette can instantly transform your space,” explains Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty.

“Shades of brown, terracotta, and deep orange can be incorporated through textiles like table runners or dish towels,” she says.

You can also consider displaying copper pots or utensils on open shelves or hanging them on racks for a functional and stylish look.

4. Go for pretty pumpkins

If there’s one thing that signifies fall to me, it’s pumpkins. I bring in cute fresh pumpkins from my local grocery store, and you can do this too.

“Bring in a combination of fresh or faux pumpkins and gourds in a variety of sizes and colors, such as white "Casper" pumpkins or mini "Fairytale" pumpkins,” explains Rachel.

“Wooden elements like cutting boards, cake stands, or trays can serve as bases for displaying these seasonal items, adding a rustic charm to your kitchen,” she adds.

You can also choose functional pumpkin decorations — Anthropologie’s fall collection this year is full of gorgeous gourds, from mugs to tablecloths.

5. Finish with seasonal vignettes

This tip is ideal for those working with small kitchens but still want to bring in fall decor.

“Creating seasonal vignettes using functional kitchen items is another effective way to decorate for fall,” Rachel says.

For example, a wooden tray can be used to hold apples, nuts, or seasonal candles, not only decorating the space but also keeping it practical.

“Chalkboards and fall-themed printables can be used to write seasonal messages or add a personal touch to these, and they can be easily updated as the season progresses,” she adds.

By focusing on a few well-placed items, you can effectively celebrate the season in your kitchen.

If you want to carry on embracing this cozy time of year, fall doorstep decor ideas are also super cute.

Black might not be your first choice for a kitchen countertop color, but actually it's very versatile and practical. It also works for both modern and classic kitchen styles and numerous cabinet schemes. 

There's plenty of material choice too, from granite to porcelain, marble to budget-busting peel-and-stick countertop adhesives. It might be you still love elements of your kitchen but fancy a small remodel – updating your countertop will transform the look and create a statement. 

We've sourced our top black kitchen countertop ideas that cover different types, using it with colored cabinets and how to balance them with what you have already.

1. Team with fresh white

There's something very refreshing about about a crisp monochromatic scheme – it's smart, eye-catching and clean looking.

We also really like the chunkiness of this black countertop, it ties in well with the black glazed cabinetry. The use of brass hardware across the space adds a warmth, together with the hardwood flooring. 

Walmart have a great looking Abyssaly Matte Black Peel and Self Adhesive Wallpaper for kitchen countertops which would be a great match for this kitchen. 

2. Let it take a back seat with a bold accent

Black kitchen countertops provide a strong visual background when the rest of this scheme is punchy, like this design.

The bright yellow floor is naturally the star of the show, but black and white cabinetry, black countertops and matching wallpaper all add a secondary design feature that's just as as bold. 

3. Team with pale blue cabinets

This lovely shade of blue looks fabulous with this engineered stone countertop, it softens the overall look so it's not too hard visually and the creamy walls behind soften it further. 

“Black worktops bring a touch of elegance and sophistication to the kitchen. They create a stunning contrast against lighter cabinetry and reflect a sleek, modern aesthetic. They also serve as a versatile backdrop, allowing other design elements, such as hardware, lighting, and decorative accents, to shine," advises Tom Howley, creative design director, Tom Howley. 

To copy this look, have a look at our key buys below. For a similar blue to match to your black countertop, try Lick's Blue 04 in eggshell, it's a perfect mid blue. 

4. Sandwich it in-between claret and blush

Choosing a black countertop needn't bring the rest of your scheme down, use it the middle of two similar colors and they will balance it perfectly. Here you can see how well granite works with a burgundy red and lighter, pinky backsplash tiles.

"Black granite was a staple in the nineties and it still has a certain understated luxury especially when honed, so we are delighted to see it in so many customer's quotes and kitchens," says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens.

For a similar black granite have a look at MSI Surfaces' Black Pearl Granite, it's got a solid color tone with speckles of other colors in it. 

5. Use black as the accent color

We talk about accent colors often, that's because they're such a key element to making a scheme impactful. When you're using a black countertop it pays to use black elsewhere too. 

“Black worktops are very much on trend; think highly dramatic granites and quartz and striking veined marbles," says Richard Moore, creative director at Martin Moore.

Choose a finish that really catches the eye, Richard adds, "A glossy black worktop achieves a certain ‘wow factor’ and adds a touch of glamour to kitchens. Increasingly, we are seeing people match their worktop material to their splashback, achieving even greater impact.” 

Loving the teal shade that offsets these beautiful black countertops? Benjamin Moore's Beau Green 2045-20 is a really good match, and ideal for a contemporary scheme.

6. Combine materials

A black countertop in a rustic chalet style kitchen might not have been your first choice, but it's actually a great idea.

“Black is the eyeliner of any room. Just as any look can use some liner, every room can use some black. It accentuates focal points and it's versatile. For this kitchen, we refinished the original wood cabinetry with a contemporary black wash to provide a break in the warm cherry grain, which helps tie it into the striking cabinets," says Dan Mazzarini, owner and creative director, BHDM Design.

In this kitchen we love the stained black wood cabinets, marble countertops and the cherry wood scheme. It works so well mixing old and new elements together. 

To copy this look check out our buys below. 

7. It prevents a white kitchen from looking too cold

For this kitchen remodel the original black countertops were used again, Sarah Jefferys, principal and founder of Sarah Jefferys Architecture and Interiors explains:

“The kitchen and dining areas were designed with efficiency in mind, allowing for easy navigation and optimal use of the available space. The black counters were intentionally kept from the previous design to act as a base for the otherwise bright and cheery design throughout the rest of the apartment." 

This allows for the black and white kitchen to be like a blank canvas for the rest of the scheme – with pops of bright yellow as a bold accent. 

For a similar couch pillow check out Anthropologie's Sophie Faux Fur Pillow in Chartreuse for a cosy and bright addition to your kitchen's seating area. 

8. Opt for an all black look

How do you feel about an all black kitchen – black cabinetry, black countertops and backsplash? It's a bold look for sure, but one that's very contemporary and full of texture. 

We asked Mor Krisher, head of product design at Caesarstone explains, “Contrary to what people often think, black or dark kitchens aren’t always sombre or austere. Dark colors can be bold and dramatic or warm and cosseting. They have within them so many different nuances, tones and tactility that give them different character.

 They can be basic or sophisticated, daring or elegant, industrial or classic, traditional or modern. Starting a kitchen design with a black countertop can lead you down a very exciting route as you start to pair it with different door colors, appliances, and accessories and if you are already shying away from all white spaces, it’s a great way to go.”

Why not team your black countertop with a black sink? Walmart's Karran Top Mount 33 inch Large/Small Bowl in Black Quartz is a great value buy and very sleek looking. 

9. Consider a charcoal if black feels too harsh

If jet black feels too dark consider a lighter black like charcoal. It's still dark and cocooning, but not as harsh visually. 

You can also balance black with a bright contrasting color like sunshine yellow or orange. This bold and contemporary kitchen has black countertops teamed with bright yellow cabinetry and backsplash. The warm cherry wood floor adds further warmth making it a fabulously unique color scheme. 

10. For an urban space team with wood

This fabulous urban kitchen embraces the natural elements of wood combined with a stunning black countertop from Caesarstone called Black Tempal. “The black countertops in this modern kitchen were chosen for their ability to anchor the space with a sense of sophistication and contrast," says Erla Dögg Ingjaldsdóttir, co-founder of Minarc.

Erla wanted something that was eye-catching yet practical and hard wearing, she adds, "Their sleek, modern look complements the architectural lines of the design while also being incredibly practical for daily use. I love how they bring a touch of elegance and drama to the space, creating a bold statement that ties everything together." 

Team with black accessories to keep the color scheme simple yet very effective. 

Our black kitchen countertop ideas will give you plenty of fabulous inspiration to consider adding it to your cabinetry. Yes, it is bold, but also has a luxury quality to it and it works well with both black and other colored cabinets. 

Keep the rest of the scheme simple for modern look. 

If you’re lucky enough to have a mudroom in your home or are planning on adding one as you get renovating, Ashley Tisdale has just given us all the inspiration with her latest home update.

And you don’t have to have a mudroom to get involved, either. Essentially, what she’s revealed so far is a bathroom vanity, complete with sink, mirror, and plenty of luxurious-looking decor pieces.

So, if you’re looking for some DIY projects to get stuck into or your existing bathroom setup could do with a bit of an update, here’s how to get the look in your own home.

WHY WE'RE LOVING ASHLEY TISDALE'S MUDROOM

Taking to her Instagram page, the High School Musical star has been sharing snippets of her Los Angeles home with her 16 million followers and her latest project combines a spot of minimalism with natural materials to create a welcoming area, which makes sense given that many a mudroom will be the first room that guests walk through when they come round to visit.

It tends to be the area where family and friends can take off their shoes or boots, to stop any dirt from being tracked into the rest of your home. So, it’s not surprising to see a sink where guests can wash their hands afterward. But the way in which Ashley’s has been designed, the setup wouldn’t look out of place in a small bathroom design either.

How to recreate the look

Looking to embrace a similar aesthetic in your own mudroom, family bathroom or downstairs toilet? Here are the elements to take into consideration.

One of our favorite bathroom vanity ideas is upcycling an existing table or vintage piece from a thrift store or an online marketplace like eBay or Facebook Marketplace. It only takes a little bit of carpentry to create a hole for either the sink to reside in or for the plumbing, if you choose to sit your sink on top of it like Ashley has. The best thing is, not only will no one else have the exact same vanity in their home, making it even more special, but it can allow you to get the look of a much more expensive vanity on a serious budget.

Then it’s time to get styling. And for those wondering is gray a good color for small bathrooms, Ashley has used a few different tones of gray on both the tiled floor and through a number of accent pieces, including the unique stone sink, while pairing it with natural elements such as marble, jute and wood.

The use of natural elements really does help to create a cohesive look and warm up what can often be a slightly more clinical room in our home.

And the end result is a relaxing but inviting space which also has lots of practical storage to keep everything organized, with you being able to decide exactly what you’d like to have on display.

What do you think? Is this something you might want to try in your own home?

A blue kitchen is firmly a modern classic. It's a fabulous option if you want a color that will last and won't date. It also goes with many countertop options like wood, marble, crisp white, or black.

This is why it's one of the most popular kitchen cabinet colors – it's so easy on the eye and incredibly versatile. Navy has been the most popular shade in recent years so we've sourced some great new blue kitchen cabinet ideas that cover other shades from a hint of blue to teal and everything in between.

Calming and relaxing, blue is a wonderful color to consider and rarely goes out of fashion, check out our blue kitchen cabinet ideas below and see which shade suits your space the best.

1. Choose a blue that looks great on walls too

A lively blue will add life to an existing space that's looking a little tired. This shade is Drawing Room Blue by Farrow & Ball and is a good clean shade of blue that looks striking when paired with white. 

"Blue kitchens are deeply popular and for good reason. They don’t seem to age in look, a tried and tested formula that just keeps on giving," says Patrick O'Donnell, brand ambassador at Farrow & Ball.

If you love the shade of blue you've chosen, why not use it onto walls too? Patrick agrees, "Rather than blue cabinetry against a white wall backdrop, go for a bit of blue-on-blue saturation."

2. Dark and moody for drama

If pale and bright isn't for you, then consider a dark inky blue. Full of drama and depth, this shade is cocooning and cozy.

"Dark, special and almost daring, Pantry Blue is so popular people often think it is a kitchen range called The Pantry Blue Kitchen. It literally goes with anything and everything and is the easiest of the dark colors to go for as it is uncomplicated to style up for glam or style down for effortless simplicity," says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens

Add balance with a wood countertop and texture with authentic stone floor tiles, both will add warmth too. 

3. A hint of blue sky

A hint of blue is just as beautiful as a deeper shade, this color has a slight gray undertone which means you could accessorize with that or blue.

“A key trend is for greys, off-whites, or light blue alongside a dark blue accent color. People often choose a darker blue for small touches, such as a feature island or a cupboard interior. The result is a kitchen that is calm and tranquil, but not lacking character," says Richard Moore, design director at Martin Moore. 

This color is perfect if you have a small kitchen, it will brighten it up whilst preventing it from feeling too cold. 

For three pale blue shades check out our paint color ideas below. 

4. The joy of navy

Perhaps the most popular blue when it comes to kitchen cabinets, navy is a great middle ground if you don't want pale or too dark. 

“Choosing a deep shade of blue for your kitchen cabinetry adds a bold yet refined statement to any kitchen. Mylands' Bond Street No. 219 is a deep, sophisticated navy that is perfect for achieving a modern, elegant look." says Dominic Myland, CEO of Mylands. Add in a marble effect countertop and backsplash that has a blue veining and you'll have a scheme that's cohesive. 

For a similar sink try Amazon's SK201-23AC Orwell Copper Single Bowl Undermount Kitchen Sink, it will add a rustic feel to your navy blue kitchen.

5. Pick a gray blue

A blue gray is a lovely shade to consider, it's practical and easy to pair other colors with and it looks particularly great in a modern setting. 

Cream is a good option, softer than white and easier on the eye, warming shades look best as does blonde wood. 

For a similar blue check out Benjamin Moore's Violet Mist 1437, it's a good match to this lovely modern kitchen. 

6. Be bold with teal

Not too keen on a trad blue – preferring a brighter slightly greener hue instead? Then teal is for you, it's blue with a hint of green which makes it bright and fun and ideal for those who want a cheerful statement for their kitchen.

“Neutral color palettes in the kitchen will never disappear – but for those who want to add a stronger injection of color, deep navy, strong teals and vibrant sky blues remain very popular," suggests Tom Howley, creative design director, Tom Howley.

Make an impact by combining teal with the right combinations of materials, Tom adds, "We recommend pairing these colors with glossy white and veined worktops for a fresh, airy scheme.”

For three brighter more punchy blues have a look at our three top shades below. 

7. Perk up a scheme with cobalt blue

Cobalt blue is a wonderful shade to pick, especially for a small kitchen. It's brighter than navy and is surprisingly uplifting. It's not far off a Royal Blue and can work well with other colors – we love it here with a soft yellow. 

Team with tactile elements like a coir rug, rough hewn wooden countertop on an island and artisanal ceramics like pots, plates and vases. 

8. Consider a delicate blue

Blues can be punchy and bold, or delicate and soft, and this blue green shade is stunning in it's subtlety.

For a similar match consider Benjamin Moore's Palladian Blue HC-144, it's beautifully calming, and is an airy blue that can look greeny when sunlight pours in. It's really versatile too, consider navy as an accent for a bold look, or flip to a pink for a bit of ice cream shade fun.

9. A grounding gray blue

Amy Courtney, founder of Amy Courtney Design, knew she wanted a space that balanced neutrality with a pop of color and was instantly drawn to Benjamin Moore's Knoxville Gray. Described as an 'alluring blue-green with a heavy dose of gray' it's a good grounding blue shade to consider.

"This unique shade was exactly what I was looking for – a perfect blend of subtlety and bold drama. The result is a kitchen that feels modern, sophisticated, and inviting. This color provided the depth and richness that she wanted without feeling too boldly unconventional."

Add a further dimension by choosing pearlescent wall tiles, they add that shimmery feel that contrasts against a matt blue shade. 

Blue is one of the most versatile and easy to live with colors you could pick for your kitchen cabinets. Have a look and see where the light flows in, do you need a warm blue or a cooler blue? 

Whichever shade you pick it will work with white, marble and wood, and will give you kitchen scheme longevity. 

Are you looking to give your kitchen a high-end finish? A kitchen trim may be the answer, yet this important finishing touch element can sometimes go unnoticed.

Have you ever walked into a kitchen showroom with wanderlust? Or, you have been invited to view a friend's newly fitted dream kitchen and thought 'Wow'? It's probably down to the fact, that when planned and installed every effort was made to ensure all cabinetry was expertly finished with an edging that's known in the industry as kitchen trim or kitchen molding. 

Kitchen trims and moldings aren't the most glamorous of fixtures when researching kitchen ideas, but they are a vital element of every impressive kitchen.

The best kitchen trim ideas

If you are looking for ways to give your kitchen design plan a finishing touch that offers sophistication and character then a kitchen trim is the ideal option. 

"Kitchen trim, typically referred to as molding, includes a variety of decorative elements used to finish and enhance the appearance of kitchen cabinets, countertops, ceilings, and floors. It serves both practical and aesthetic purposes, adding depth, dimension, and a polished look to your kitchen," explains Alice Moszcznsyki, an Interior Designer at Planner 5D.

There are various varieties and styles of kitchen trim to choose from for every kitchen cabinet trend and they can be installed to the top, bottom and front of kitchen cabinets to create exquisite attention-to-detail that blends seamlessly into the kitchen scheme. 

Whether you decide on a single embellishment for subtle practicality or want to dress your kitchen decoratively from head to toe, our guide will explain what type of kitchen trim mouldings are available and what kitchen cabinet ideas they suit.

1. Crown moldings

One of the most common decorative details in kitchen design is to add molding trim that is mounted to the top of kitchen cabinets, like a crown, hence its name. 

"One of the most impactful uses of kitchen trim is on the crown molding, which sits atop your cabinetry and transitions the cabinets to the ceiling. Carefully selected crown molding can instantly add depth, dimension, and a touch of elegance to your kitchen," says Josh Qian, the COO and Co-Founder of Best Online Cabinets.

Historically decorative crown molding is more commonly used in period properties with traditional and shaker-style kitchens. 

"Classic crown moldings tend to be more decorative and create a timeless and traditional feel that looks expensive," adds Josh.

Contemporary kitchens with slab-style or flat-fronted doors do not really work with the addition of decorative and ornate crown molding. 

That being said, crown trim or molding that is less ambiguous can be successful in contemporary kitchens to create a seamless vibe that flows with the architecture.

Sometimes panels often referred to as risers run along the top of cabinets right up to the ceiling that creates a frame around cabinets. The results form a built-in sense of streamlined modernism. 

2. Cabinet trims

Cabinet trims are lengths of edging that can be added to the underneath of upper-cabinetry to give it a more custom and detailed finish.

"Adding a subtle trim detail can instantly elevate your kitchen's overall look and feel," explains Josh.

"From simple, clean-lined designs to more intricate, decorative patterns, it allows you to customize your cabinets to your personal taste."

Another area where kitchen cabinet trim can make a significant impact is on the face frames of your cabinets. From large shaker-style panels to narrow dado rail-style embellishments, the easy update creates transformative results. 

"Trim applied directly to cabinet doors and drawer fronts can transform plain surfaces into elegant panels, adding depth and texture," says Alice Moszcznsyki

"This can include raised panels, beadboard panels, or applied molding around the edges. I find these to be the most fun to play with and really change the look of your kitchen."

3. Skin panel trims

Skin panel trims are custom exterior panels installed on the outside of cabinet carcasses to create an attractive finish that either matches or contrasts with kitchen cabinet doors. 

Scribe moldings and fillers can then be used to then fill in any gaps. 

4. Base moldings

This type of molding is used to cover the bottom edge of cabinets, and it comes in a variety of styles and colors to choose from. Furniture base molding is a strip of wood that extends slightly beyond the cabinets themselves. So, will decoratively join base cabinets to the floor with a luxurious finish.

Base moldings look particularly impressive installed at the bottom of kitchen islands. The enhancement anchors the standalone wall unit effortlessly unites the feature with matching cupboards and units in the room.

"A range of base trim options, from solid wood to durable, moisture-resistant materials, ensures your kitchen's foundation looks as polished as the rest of the room," says Josh.

5. Toe-kick trims

Differing from Base moldings toe kick trims or kickboards are that strip of wood that runs along the bottom of your base cabinets, between the carcase frame and the floor. 

Unlike base moldings, toe kick trims recede slightly offering room for 'toes'. They can be a more simple and less expensive option to decorative base moldings. However, budget-friendly toe kicks still have an important job of protecting cabinets and stopping dust and debris from collecting under kitchen units. 

Selecting the perfect trim for your kitchen installation will ensure every detail is considered. Many kitchen trim and molding elements come as standard and can be discussed with your kitchen designer when planning and designing your dream kitchen. 

However, if you've just moved home and are looking to update an inherited kitchen or perhaps need tips to refresh a rental kitchen, then these kitchen trim ideas are transformative. 

FAQs

Hands up if you've watched Nara Smith's cooking videos. The TikTok influencer is know for her sultry voice, natural ingredients, and beautiful outfits. But, whenever I watch her videos, I'm always mesmerized by her chic cooking space.

I've asked interior designers why her classic color scheme, retro touches, and warm textures work so well in the space, as well as delving into how to style the look at home. “Nara Smith's kitchen is a perfect example of how different design elements can come together to create a stylish and functional space,” says Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty.

Whether you're in love with Nara Smith's kitchen essentials or just adore elegant cooking spaces, our design pros have plenty of useful insights and insights.

For those looking for stylish and timeless kitchen ideas, Nara Smith’s space is a masterclass in minimalist design.

“Every detail has been thoughtfully curated to create a space that is both functional and visually serene,” explains Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

She says the sleek light gray cabinetry, which stops just shy of the ceiling, sets the tone for the room's understated elegance. “The kitchen cabinets, adorned with simple, small round brass knobs, also offer a subtle nod to luxury without detracting from the kitchen's overall minimalist vibe.”

These are both beautifully contrasted by the white countertops and marble splashback, which contribute to the airy and spacious feel of the space. “To recreate this look, homeowners can choose a marble slab with subtle veining that complements their cabinet color,” says Rachel. “If real marble is beyond the budget, marble-look tiles or even peel-and-stick options can achieve a similar effect.”

But what truly makes Nara's kitchen stand out are the carefully chosen accents that reflect her passion for cooking.

“The centerpiece of her kitchen and all her cooking videos is her collection of striking wooden cutting boards, each one a work of art in its own right,” says Nina. “These cutting boards not only serve as a functional tool for food prep but also add warmth and natural beauty to the space.” If you’re looking for fab and functional kitchen countertop decor, you can’t go wrong with a brilliant board.

As well as this, Nara also has a Smeg toaster in the background, which is one of the coolest retro toasters around. “This is a final, perfect touch, marrying retro charm with modern functionality,” Nina adds.

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In Nara Smith’s kitchen, it’s clear that food is the heart and soul of the space.

“The minimalist design ensures that the focus remains on the culinary experience, creating an environment where the beauty of food preparation takes center stage,” Nina finishes by saying.

Want to carry on scoping out more of the TikTok star’s interior picks? I also love Nara Smith’s plates which are chic and cute.

Reese Witherspoon has a bold yet practical design aesthetic that I absolutely love. She's brought this approach to her dining table tablescaping, which balanced bright colors and classic dinnerware perfectly.

I've seen tablescaping everywhere this year, with so many people making their tables sing with style. So, I've asked interior designers why Reese's table decor works so well, why tablescaping is so popular at the moment, and how to recreate the look at home.

If you're looking for easy interior design trends to try in your home, this one is a great one to try, as it's sure to dazzle guests whenever they come over.

Just like the rest of her home, Reese Witherspoon’s dining table brings together Southern Charm and modern elegance.

“Natural woven placemats and cup holders echo the table’s warm wood tones, grounding the setting with a rustic touch that feels both organic and chic,” explains Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

“Topped with simple white dishware, the place settings show perfect contrast, with neutral tones playing against the natural textures beneath them,” she explains.

She also loves the clear glass wine glasses and vases that add a bit of sparkle, reflecting the golden hues of the flowers scattered artfully across the table. “The clear glass vases, one tall and one shorter, create a dynamic centerpiece, while the small glass candle vessels that bookend them bring a cozy, inviting glow.”

I also love the scattered oranges and lemons on the table, which are a brilliant example of Eurosummer dinnerware. “They infuse the table with a lively pop of color, tying the entire scene together in a celebration of summer’s bounty,” Nina adds. You could also add indoor plants to add a natural touch.

The whole set-up is a tablescaping dream — but why is this such a big deal right now?

“It’s an easy way to showcase personal style, and unlike a full room makeover, it doesn’t require a major commitment,” says Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty.

“Plus, with the rise of more casual and intimate gatherings post-pandemic, people are focusing on making every meal a special occasion, even if it’s just dinner for two at home,” she adds. It's also one of the biggest Pinterest summer trends, FYI.

When setting up for a dinner party, Rachel also adores using what’s in season because it makes the table feel alive and current. “Plus, those citrus accents can double as a snack or garnish — talk about multitasking décor!”

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Every detail, from the natural textures to the bright, citrusy accents, is thoughtfully chosen.

“These all combine to create a dining experience that feels both luxurious and lived-in — a true reflection of Reese Witherspoon’s signature style,” Nina finishes by saying.

Want to carry on scoping out the Legally Blonde star’s home? I also love Reese Witherspoon’s kitchen, which is filled with smart kitchen storage solutions.

If you fancy a more individual look that represents your personality then do consider an eclectic scheme. It's about mixing different styles, from vintage to modern in the same room and not worrying too much about clashing colors and prints. 

Not too dissimilar to maximalism, it's about choosing what you love the most, though creating an eclectic look is a little more refined and less intense. It's about choosing pieces you love even if they're from different eras – a wing-backed chair from a flea market teamed with a large modernist painting from your favorite gallery. You can mix and match to suit you.

Explore our eclectic living room ideas below – from gorgeous color schemes to vintage finds and bold prints, we've got plenty of inspiration. 

1. Clashing colors

Teaming colors together that on paper might not work is one aspect of creating an eclectic living room. This bold red and pink interior is striking and offset perfectly by the monochromatic rug.

Pick seating that's individual too – we love this modern chair and footstool, matching up furniture is not really a thing with this look!

Check out the paint colors here – the red is Romesco No.CB4 and the pink is Shallot No.CB3, both Farrow & Ball. The rug is Ikea's Stockholm design, it's one of their classics and we can see why!

2. Use a bright accent color

This dark blue living room is totally unique and full of one-off antique finds – the stunning mahogany armchairs teamed with a vintage chandelier (check out Wayfair's Amiaha dimmable chandelier) are the epitome of eclectic design.

We love the yellow accent in the form of the modern couch it ties in perfectly with the yellow elements of the modern artwork above the mantel. Add in a flea market rug and some gilt-framed art and you have a characterful living room.

3. Mix and match your accessories

Bold and beautiful, this eclectic living room shows how you can mix up your accessories successfully to create a space that's full of prints and patterns. 

Keep your main colors simple like the pink walls and lime green couch and add in couch pillows, gilt frames, and lamps. We love the touch of monochrome in this living room, it pares down the look a little. 

To copy this bright living room have a look at out top three buys below. 

4. Choose one main color

If you love bright colors then pick one main shade and then fill the rest of the space with patterns and bright accents that suit you and your family's taste. 

"The family who lives here is a lot of fun – I mean, the parents let their kids use razor scooters in the house! They’re an exuberant bunch, so there was no question color was going to play an important role in reflecting their personalities," advises Martin Horner, co-founder and principal, Soucie Horner.

Think of your chosen color as your blank canvas, Martin adds, "This deep turquoise is the perfect backdrop to one of the cozier rooms in the apartment. It’s an exciting color, but it’s also calming in the same way all blues are calming, which is very appropriate in a room meant for curling up with a good book."

For a similar couch cushion have a look at Anthropologie's velvet frame pillow in raspberry, it also comes in turquoise. 

5. Go for a painterly approach

For calming and creative eclectic living room ideas choose a color palette that has some pastel shades and a hint of yellow. 

This adorable cottage-style living room has blush pink walls, a blue and pink upholstered couch, and a hand-painted fireplace and lampshade. These elements really offer an individual and artistic feel to this relaxing space. 

To recreate this painterly living room have a look at our buys below. 

6. You can be eclectic in an all white space

An eclectic living room doesn't need to be dark in color, in fact, an all-white scheme can form the basis of a successful look.

It's about the elements you add in that make a space work, Michelle Murphy, founder, Demi Ryan Interiors says, "Eclectic living spaces blend diverse styles, colors, and textures, creating a unique, personalized environment that reflects individual tastes and stories. They work well because this mix-and-match approach allows for creativity and flexibility, resulting in a dynamic, harmonious space that feels both curated and comfortable."

7. Layer your materials

An eclectic look can be achieved by the materials and textures you use in your living room. This elegant space uses velvet, metal, earthenware, and wood to great effect, each piece has a story and some are modern, while others are unique one-off buys. This is what makes up an eclectic living room.

Although there's an element of symmetry in here which we love, there's personality to this space. 

Nordstrom has a great range of accessories like the Pacino Abstract Statue and Highland View Framed Art Print that has similar colors to this sophisticated living room. 

8. Utilize your walls

Creating an eclectic living room isn't just about the furniture, it's also about what you put on your walls and floors. 

In a small living room you can make the most of your wall space and hang wall storage units in various configurations to display your one-off finds and personal knick-knacks.

Ikea has a great selection of open and closed storage for exactly this purpose – we really like the EKET range shown here as it comes in a good selection of colors, , you could even paint them inside to add more of a unique look. 

9. Team old and new

According to Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages, an eclectic interior doesn't always have to be loud or over-the-top. "You can mix old and new elements subtly by pairing vintage furniture with modern decor in muted tones. Picture a contemporary curved sofa alongside vintage chairs, set against a wallpaper that nods to the past but with a modern twist."

We love this concept and it really is the key to creating an eclectic living room that works from a design point of view. Jamie adds, "The result is a harmonious blend that feels both timeless and fresh, with just the right touch of character."  

Copy this sleek pendant light with Anthropologie's Mitzi Hikari Chandelier, it's striking with its sculptural shape and deliberately placed lights.

Be inspired by our eclectic living room ideas, each one is different and will guide you to creating your own unique space. Look for one-off finds in antiques stores and flea markets – it's these key pieces that make a room look eclectic and full of character. 

Perhaps not a color you might instantly consider for your kitchen cabinets, nonetheless, black is a good choice and we're going to show you how to use it below. 

It's eye-catching and dramatic for sure, but if you use it cleverly and team it with other elements it can look fabulous. Like all color schemes, balance is key – consider your countertops, wall color, flooring, and hardware too.

If you are about to refresh your kitchen or totally remodel, then our black kitchen cabinet ideas will inspire you to give this bold look a go. 

1. Team with white wall cabinets

A simple yet effective approach is to just keep the black on the lower cabinets and to use white on your countertops and upper cabinets. 

You can also break up the scheme with brass handles, and carry them through onto the top units too. We love the use of warm-toned marble as a backspace that ties in with the herringbone flooring. All these details help to soften the black cabinets so the overall look is bold yet balanced. 

For similar handles to use on your black cabinets have a look at Wayfair's Ethan finger pull in satin brass, they're a great match. 

2. Choose a black with plum undertones

If the thought of jet black is too much, then look for shades that have undertones of other colors, like Farrow & Ball's Paean Black. Patrick O'Donnell, brand ambassador at Farrow & Ball explains:

"Whilst at first glance these colors seem to appear contradictory, from the charred aubergine tones of Paean Black on the cabinets to the smoky nuances of faded rose with Sulking Room Pink on walls and ceiling, they share red undertones which make them play together in a contemporary and fresh way."

As there are no wall cabinets, the darker shade is used on the base units only, Patrick adds, "Paean Black on the low units helps to ‘ground’ the kitchen, while taking Sulking Room Pink over the ceiling creates the perception of more height as there is no sharp contrast where the wall meets the ceiling!"

Where you use colors in a scheme like this is key, and where possible, always use the darker shade below, that goes for all schemes when a dramatic richer color is used.  

3. Break it up with a tiled backsplash

So a black kitchen cabinet scheme doesn't feel too heavy on the eye it pays to break it up with other colors and textures. 

This sleek kitchen has crisp white countertops which make it look very contemporary. The marble-tiled backsplash adds texture and interest to prevent the overall look from being too clinical. 

"The kitchen features Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black on natural white oak cabinetry, creating a sleek, modern look. The rich black finish provides a striking contrast against the diamond-shaped Calacatta Gold marble tile backsplash, enhancing the space's overall elegance," says Brittany Farinas, CEO and creative director, House of One.

To copy this smart kitchen we've sourced three key elements. 

4. Embrace black on both wall and floor cabinets

If you love the idea of using black on your cabinets use it on your wall units as well for an all-encompassing look. 

This dramatic kitchen has black marble-style countertops, but the overall look is still light which shows how black can be successfully used. The light pouring through the ceiling helps as do the white wall tiles. 

Add a marble-style countertop to your black cabinets by using Walmart's EasyLiner contact paper, it can be used for countertops, shelving, and drawers.

5. Give old cabinets a new look

If you fancy a spot of DIY then consider painting your old cabinets yourself. Paint and color expert, Annie Sloan CBE suggests using her iconic Chalk Paint, "The matte finish of Chalk Paint adds a touch of understated luxury, while its ease of application makes it accessible even for those new to DIY. Rather than splurging on a whole new kitchen, repainting cabinets is a quick and cost-effective alternative, and with a glamorous, richly pigmented and timeless color like Athenian Black you won’t have to compromise on style. 

It's also incredibly forgiving in a kitchen setting, Annie adds, 'The dark color can mask everyday wear and tear, making your cabinets not only beautiful but practical."

6. Use it on glazed cabinets only

We love this flipped idea of painting the top glazed cabinetry instead of the base cabinets. It creates a really stylish look, especially when teamed with black countertops. 

It's ideal if you want to try blackout but not go the whole hog, as the glazed aspect ensures the top half of the kitchen isn't too dense visually. 

"Black kitchen cabinets work because they create a bold, sophisticated look that anchors the space, providing a striking contrast with lighter elements like countertops and backsplashes. In this kitchen I mixed them with white oak and white cabinets to create drama but not overwhelm the space," explains Michelle Murphy, founder, Demi Ryan Interiors.

As with other colors, black paint colors do vary, we've had a look at three below – have a look and see which you'd pick for your cabinets. 

7. Make your island the focal point

Another great option is to paint your marble-topped kitchen island black and have that as your statement piece. Keeping the other cabinetry white or painted in a neutral-like gray will make the kitchen look full of contrast and interest. 

"Think late-night bars, speakeasies, and restaurants in New York City for the look," says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens. "Big grand kitchen cupboards and especially big islands painted black, and certainly a splash of softly rounded Carrara marble, which just isn’t ever going to go out of fashion."

Team this color combination with original floorboards and vintage bar stools for character. 

8. Add pattern to the mix

A dark charcoal is a good choice if a proper black feels too dark, and you can perfectly break up the scheme with lighter countertops and a blonde wood floor.

Introducing pattern will help balance a scheme like this too, check out Walmart's subway tile backsplash in marble gray it's great value and perfect if you're renting. 

9. Add warmth with wood

Introducing a different material like wood will help a predominantly black kitchen scheme feel warmer. And if you keep the pale wood in the middle of the scheme – on the island then your black cabinets can be a statement feature around the sides of the space. 

Use black accessories around the island to tie the look together, we love Amazon's Zesthouse stools in Natural Rattan. They have a mid-century modern look and velvet seats. 

10. Frame black cabinets with natural materials

This stunning black kitchen is sandwiched between two other natural materials – marble and stone flags. Both add a lovely lightness and texture to the scheme that visually counters the jet-black cabinetry and AGA.

A hanging rail with copper pans and utensils breaks up the white walls and adds a decorative aspect. Plants help too by adding a botanical touch. 

Choosing to invest in black kitchen cabinets is a bold statement, though not one to be afraid of as there's plenty of ways to create a balanced look. 

Consider using other materials like marble, wood, and tiling. You can also introduce other colors. Metallics work wonderfully with black especially brass and gold effect designs. 

When it comes to couches, it can be hard to find ones that tick all the boxes when it comes to color, style, and comfort. I think that Selena Gomez's has done this perfectly, though.

She posted an adorable pic of her relaxing with her beau on it and I fell in love with the dusky color. I've asked interior designers why that it works so well and how you can style this sort of couch in your own place.

If you're looking to bring living room trends into your home, going bold on color and personality like Selena is worth giving a go.

The Only Murders in the Building actor has brought in playful dusky pink, showing that this color is here to stay beyond the Barbiecore trend boom last year.

"Depending on how you style it, light pink can absolutely function as a neutral — and here, rendered in luxe velvet, Selena uses this subtle hue to make a super-chic design statement,” explains Kathy Kuo, interior designer at Kathy Kuo Home.

She continues, “I love how the pink color and rich velvet texture play off one another for an effect that is luxurious, but also very cozy and livable.”

Velvet is known for its luxurious texture, which adds depth and richness to any piece of furniture. “It invites comfort, making it an ideal choice for a living room where relaxation is paramount,” adds Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty.

For those looking to style a similar couch in their own homes, you can do so in a variety of ways.

“I'd style this sofa with warm neutral-toned throw pillows, and toss a cashmere throw blanket over the side for a contrast in textures,” Kathy says.

Rachel agrees, adding, “This will allow the couch to stand out as a focal point without overwhelming the space.”

She continues, “Incorporating metallic or wooden accents can add contrast and visual interest in the living room.” Some of the biggest coffee table trends this year include sustainable materials like these.

As well as this, Rachel says to ensure the room receives ample natural light to highlight the beautiful color and texture of the velvet fabric.

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Selena Gomez's pink velvet couch is a beautiful example of how this playful shade can look sleek and sophisticated.

“By following these styling tips, you can bring in a similar piece and create a luxurious and inviting atmosphere that reflects your personal style,” Rachel finishes by saying.

Want to scout out more of her home? I also love Selena Gomez’s bathroom, which is so Parisian-chic.

Of all the rooms in our recently renovated cottage, the kitchen has to be my very favorite. However, there are also some issues that I wish I could go back and put right. 

They don’t stop me from loving the room, but they annoy me and when we take on our next renovation project (which hopefully won’t be in the too-distant future) I will definitely not be making the same mistakes again.

Here I give you the top five kitchen design mistakes we made so that you can avoid doing the same.

1. Fitting wooden countertops around the sink

The majority of the countertops in our kitchen are made from oak and we sourced these online rather than buying them from the same supplier we used for our kitchen cabinets as we found we could get a better deal this way.

They look lovely - warm, timeless, and just a little bit rustic. We oil them using Danish oil around twice a year to keep them in good condition and they are surprisingly resilient when it comes to withstanding the hot pans I regularly plonk on them when I shouldn’t. 

So far, so good. But (and there has to be a but) I really wish we hadn’t used them around the kitchen sink. Despite trying to be careful about splashing them with water, the area behind the sink inevitably gets wet on a daily basis and the wood here has been left discolored and even a little cracked. We recently sanded it right back (a bonus of timber) and re-oiled it but it still doesn’t look quite right.

For our breakfast bar we used a beautiful quartz composite marble countertop which is pretty much bullet-proof and this would have been a much better choice for the sink area. I am glad we went for composite stone as when it comes to how to clean marble countertops a little more care is required. 

These Silicone Trivet Mats from Amazon in turquoise would have helped protect our timber countertops.

2. Opting for a ceramic stove instead of induction

We completely gutted our cottage, stripping it right back to its bare bones. We kind of sprinted into this project as we were desperate to move out of our soulless rental and were seduced by the character and setting of the cottage. We didn’t really think ahead when it came to how we would afford the house renovation costs that we’d need to fund. As such, we were really keen (maybe too keen) to save money where we could. Sometimes this worked just great - for example, the bargain second-hand fire basket in our open fire - other times it didn’t.

We opted for an electric range stove, however, we chose a model with a ceramic stovetop, and oh how I regret that. Seriously, I sometimes feel like I’m living in the 1980s. 

We were used to gas cooking - so instant response. This thing takes forever to get to temperature and then stays hot for ages after being turned down or off. 

If we had spent just a little bit more, life would be so much easier when it comes to mealtimes. I'm thinking about getting one of these Portable Induction Cooktops from Amazon in the meantime. 

3. Not considering how much dirt the floor would show up

I spent a long time looking at country kitchen design ideas and wanted a bit of a modern rustic finish in the kitchen, so we mixed up new Shaker units and the smart marble breakfast bar with reclaimed items such as the worn old butcher's block. 

For the kitchen flooring, we opted for large format, rectangular riven slate tiles - and they do look lovely - when they’ve just been vacuumed and mopped. 

The problem starts when anyone steps foot in the kitchen. These things show up every single speck of dirt. Just outside the back door that leads into the kitchen, we have creamy-colored gravel which seems to transfer a fair bit of dust to shoes and then show up on our near-black tiles. We have a dog and a cat - their paw prints are regular features on our kitchen floor. Everything, from watermarks to flour seems to be more visible than ever on these particular tiles. 

We are pretty good at keeping on top of the cleaning, but even this is more of a chore than it needed to be - dirt gets lodged in the riven surface of the slate, and this surface tears most floor mops to pieces. 

If I had the choice again I’d opt for something like a beige or creamy-toned limestone or travertine to hide the dirt a bit. And I would go for a more honed finish to make sweeping and cleaning easier. 

The one thing that does get our floor clean is a steam mop and I love the Shark Professional Steam Pocket Mop from Lowes.

4. Failing to plan space for a bigger refrigerator

There is a space between the edge of our freestanding refrigerator/freezer and the stable door. And do you know why that annoys me? Because it meant there was more space for a bigger model of refrigerator. 

I regularly play refrigerator Jenga after coming back from doing a food shop because there just isn’t enough space for everything. Pots of yogurt regularly seem to fly out when I open the door, much to the delight of the dog who loves to help clean the pesky aforementioned floor. 

Every time I go to someone’s house who has a double-door refrigerator and freezer - and especially those with iced water dispensers on the outside - I feel jealous. 

As we plan on moving soon there seems little point in investing in a new one now - but I am wondering, how long does a refrigerator last? Hopefully, this one won’t last much longer and I can buy a new one. 

5. Choosing a noisy range hood

Our kitchen, like many other peoples’, seems to be the place where everyone wants to congregate - which I love. But there is a lot that goes on in a kitchen - cooking, chopping, washing, and so on. All of this alone creates quite a lot of noise so loud appliances are just not welcome - they only add to the feeling of chaos at busy times - particularly when guests want to chat while you try to look cool and collected while juggling a billion other things. 

When I turn our range hood on to prevent the kitchen from filling with steam or cooking odors, you would be forgiven for thinking that a jumbo jet was taking off just outside the window. 

I don’t know how many decibels it is - because I never thought to check. Clever me.

The moral of the story? Noise output of appliances matters - and it will usually be stated on the specifications. Checking this should be a number one priority for anyone researching how to design an open-plan kitchen.  

The COSMO COS-63175S Wall Mount Range Hood from Amazon has a noise level of just 45dB.

Inspired  to turn your own kitchen remodel ideas into a reality? Make sure you put in the research before getting started to ensure your end result is everything you hoped for.

Bathrooms are high-traffic areas and often serve the whole family if you don't have space for an extra powder room. So it pays to invest in this key space and creating an accent wall is the ideal way to perk it up without spending a fortune. 

Our bathroom accent wall ideas offer creative solutions, color ideas, and how to introduce pattern and print. It doesn't need to be a massive project either. You can try a half wall, budget peel-and-stick wallpaper, or even a new paint color on one wall.

Creating an accent wall can transform an existing bathroom design that you may still love, it might just need one wall with new tiles. Read our guide below and see which idea you love the most. 

1. Marble is the ultimate in luxury

Perhaps the most yearned-after material, a marble bathroom is definitely a luxury look even if just for an accent wall. But is it possible as there are plenty of marble effect options to choose from if your budget won't stretch, and if you can afford it remember it's for an accent wall, not the whole bathroom.

Jason Cherrington, director at Lapicida says, "Feature walls created from luxurious materials, such as marble or marble-effect porcelain (like Massa D'oro Bookmatch a replica of Calacatta Oro marble), can produce a striking statement in the bathroom. Slabs or tiles with unique veining can be ‘bookmatched’ to create natural geometric designs. Choose neutral colors, such as cream or white, for a trendy ‘quiet luxury’ look."

2. Hang a bright wallpaper in a dark bathroom

Break up a dark scheme by choosing a bright wallpaper and hanging it on one wall. The yellow and black contrast creates a stunning design feature in this bold bathroom. Little Greene's Cranford wallpaper in wheat has a simple linear style design that works beautifully. 

"Avoid pairing your wallpaper with harsh bright whites and instead combine with natural stone hues or deep indulgent colors to create a luxurious and relaxing feel that envelops the space," says Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene.

Likewise, it would work in a light bathroom too and you could pick a wallpaper that's darker. It's about creating a balance visually and for one wall to be the 'accent' color. 

3. Or choose a textured wallpaper that's subtle

If a patterned wallpaper isn't your bag, especially in a bathroom, but you still want an accent that isn't paint or tiles then a textured plain colored wallpaper could be ideal.

They add a subtle design feature that adds to the scheme without being too bold, and you can match the color to other elements – here the wallpaper matches tonally to the floor tiles.

Our three favorite textured wallpaper designs for a bathroom are below, each one has its own quality. 

4. Create two accent walls

It is possible to have two accent walls, what makes them an 'accent' is that they're different. 

For this to work you only need one color to match – in this case the sky blue that's present in both. The colors unite them, but the different tiles offer a modern and eclectic look. To copy this fun look check out Wayfair's Aster Porcelain Patterned Wall and Floor Tile and team them with Target's Smart Tiles 3D Peel and Stick Tiles that come in various other colors. 

5. Make a feature of white tiles

We simply adore this idea that features a large white hexagon floor and wall tiles that go from the floor up to the ceiling, but, with the wall tiles feature a beautiful golden bee – making it a truly eye-catching accent wall. 

The pink tub is another accent, but in the form of the color rather than decoration, if you choose a metallic then tie that look throughout the room as you can see here with the brass hardware.

6. Go monochromatic

This striking monochromatic bathroom is elevated by the accent wall behind the sink, it takes the design to a new level and add the orange mirror to the mix and you have a wonderful bold accent wall. 

"We’re strong believers that powder rooms should be treated like jewel boxes and made really special," says Martin Horner, co-founder and principal at Soucie Horner. 

This accent wall would work in any sized bathroom, but we agree that power rooms are fabulous place to experiment with color schemes. Martin continues, "Because they’re typically small, they’re ideal places to take risks you might not feel comfortable taking in a larger area. Here that meant using vividly patterned black and white wall tile and accenting it with orange. It packs a lot of visual punch and makes for a truly memorable space." 

 Choose from the below black and white ideas for your accent wall. 

7. Tile half a wall

This pretty in pink walk-in shower area has an accent wall on the lower half, this is a great idea if you want to create a feature but not all the way up. It will also save you money if on a budget. "Tiling the lower half of a bathroom wall and painting the upper half in a complementary hue still creates a statement space but in a more modern, balanced, and curated approach," says Damla Turgut, founder, Otto Tiles & Design.

We tend to have a preconceived idea of what an accent wall should look like, Tamla adds, "When it comes to creating an accent wall, most people think of using just one material or color floor to ceiling, but I really love to break up a space using a combination of materials and colors that work in harmony with each other, creating a much more unique and visually impactful interior scheme."

If you want to copy this fabulous pink shade take a look at Lick's Pink 12 Eggshell, it's a pinky coral with a hint of gray undertones. 

8. Keep it subtle

Contrary to popular belief, bathroom accent wall ideas can be subtle and elegant. We love these lattice marble wall tiles that create a pattern and backdrop for the black and marble vanity unit. 

Country Floors have a great match with their Avenza, Snow White Honed Large Lattice Marble Mosaic. They really have a timeless beauty and are worth the investment. 

9. Use one wallpaper design in two colorways

We love this idea of using the same wallpaper design but in two different colorways, it's a great design twist and if you adore the wallpaper you've chosen then why not double up? 

"Use contrasting colors in the same print above and below a dado rail for added design detail and maximum wallpaper magic. We love this design trick. It’s at once playful and at the same time sophisticated. Here our Crane Fonda wallpaper in Soft Copper pared with the same design in Black Gold makes for an accent wall that is original and unique," says Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages. 

"Also note the perfect pattern matching on the two halves… it’s these small design details that count," adds Jamie. 

To start this fabulous look pick a wallpaper design that has more than one color scheme and find two that you love. 

10. Be creative with paint

If you prefer to create a bathroom accent wall with paint then this ombre paint effect could be for you. It's easier enough to do if you choose several paint colors that work together but with color gradation.

We asked paint and color expert, Annie Sloan CBE for her advice on accent walls in bathrooms, "Incorporating a feature wall in a bathroom can transform the space from functional to exceptional, and it often has a more pronounced impact here than in other areas of the home due to the room's intimate nature. Color in bathrooms can feel very unexpected and therefore more dramatic and exciting, but because of the smaller size, painting all your walls may feel overwhelming."

So how do you start an ombre wall? "Using blues to create an ombre emphasizes their introspective, horizon-expanding qualities. Here, blending seductively pigmented Aubusson Blue into the lighter, tranquil tones of Provence adds depth and serene, spa-like quality to the room."

Our bathroom accent wall ideas will give you enough inspiration whatever your DIY skills or budget. From peel and stick options to getting creative with paint, there's something for everyone and all sized bathrooms. Most of all, have fun! 

I'm thrilled that Emily in Paris is back. Lily Collins' colorful outfits? Passionate romance? Out-of-the-box marketing ideas? I'm here for it all.

I had a flick through the star of the show's Instagram feed to try and get a sneak peek of the show, and I couldn't help but stop at her gorgeous bathroom. I've asked interior designers why features like the clawfoot tub, artwork, and fresh accessories work so well, and how you can get her look at home.

If you're looking for boujee bathroom ideas that will make your space feel like a hotel, her place has tons of beautiful accents to swoon over.

Just like her character Emily, Lily Collins has embraced Parisian-chic style, bringing it into her wash space.

“Lily Collins' bathroom is a classic monochrome dream, blending timeless elegance with modern artistry,” explains Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer at Nina’s Home Design.

The first thing that caught Nina’s eye was the striking black and white checkered tile floor, which sets the stage for the room's bold yet refined aesthetic. “This pattern, often associated with grand European interiors, anchors the space in a tradition that is at once classic and contemporary.”

She also loves the pristine white clawfoot tub that Lily can be seen lounging in. “This is an iconic symbol of luxury and relaxation. Its ornate claw feet add a subtle nod to vintage glamour while maintaining a cohesive look.

The silver hardware throughout the bathroom, from the elegant bathtub faucet to the understated towel rods, also adds a sleek, modern touch to the space. “The choice of silver over more traditional brass or gold keeps the aesthetic fresh and modern,” Nina adds.

This is all tied together beautifully by accents that enhance how relaxed the space feels. “The simple white bath mat adds a final touch of comfort and cohesion, as do the crisp white towels,” Nina says.

If you like this style but want to soften it a little, you could always add greenery and natural elements. “You can also add texture with natural fiber rugs, plush towels, and greenery such as indoor plants,” explains Kristin Hintlian, interior designer at Bonsai Builds.

I also love the fact Lily has brought wall art into her space, with an artistic print framed by a silver border. “Framed botanical prints, antique mirrors, or black and white photography are also ideal wall art options,” Kristin adds.

Shop the look

In Lily Collins' bathroom, every detail has been meticulously chosen to create a captivating retreat.

“It’s the perfect embodiment of classic elegance infused with a contemporary edge — a true reflection of Lily’s style,” Nina finishes by saying.

Want to carry on scoping out Parisian-style decor? We’ve also explained how to get the Emily in Paris design aesthetic at home.

A regular disagreement in my household is how to time dishes. We sometimes put a plate on top of a bowl of cooked food while he waits for the other dishes to finish, but it can lead to soggy food.

Midea seems to have heard my concerns from afar, combining two separate cooking sections — an air fryer and a toaster oven — into one air appliance. I haven’t been this excited to try a new kitchen gadget in ages. I already knew that this was going to come in handy the first time I was craving both crispy chicken tenders and fries. 

And, while it has a few flaws in design and functionality, the innovation of having two entirely separate zones that cook at different temperatures, but can be programmed to sync, might outweigh any shortcomings. This is one of the best air fryers that is in the running to earn a permanent spot in my kitchen. 

What I Thought of the Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer

I was super excited to try this air fryer because there are so many times that I’m cooking two dishes, and I end up having to resort to the regular oven or eating one dish lukewarm because I had to wait to use the air fryer (one of the many dos and don'ts of using an air fryer). Having both an air fryer and a regular oven in one is a game changer, especially when I don’t want to turn on the oven because it’s summer or I just don’t feel like a lunchtime meal merits it. 

This air fryer oven is incredibly easy to use. The controls are easy and intuitive. It has ten preset cooking modes, including air frying, grilling, baking, broiling, roasting, reheating, toasting, dehydrating, bagel, and keeping warm. And it guides you through the process, beeping halfway through to remind you to turn your food. 

Add in the sync finish mode, which helps you time both the air fryer and oven to finish simultaneously, and you have a seriously genius appliance. Plus, I thought both sections both cooked well — and isn’t that the key?

But there are some negatives, including the fact the toasting tray is incredibly difficult to use. It’s tiny and shallow. It’s really only suited to toast, burgers, pizza — things that are flat. It doesn’t pull all the way out, and I had a hard time figuring out how to use it in a way that felt safe.

The size of the air fryer oven is also truly a drawback. I don’t prefer to keep an air fryer on the countertop, and it’s realistically too tall and heavy to move in and out of a cabinet. That size is what allows it to have both a 6-quart air frying basket and a 5-quart toaster oven, but is it worth it? Not if you have a small, or even regular-size kitchen. It’s just a much bigger air fryer than I’m used to. 

Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer Specifications

Unboxing the Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer

My first impression upon receiving the box from Midea was holy moly, this is heavy. I put off bringing it upstairs to our kitchen for nearly an entire day. But, of course, the weight makes sense given that this isn’t just an air fryer, but a toaster oven, too. 

This is a large machine. It’s nearly 16” tall, 15” deep, and 23 pounds. As I'm much more used to small air fryers, it was a bit of a surprise. It’s a major kitchen appliance. So taking it out of the box required a force of brute strength. But I got it out, and I got it set up — easily, I might add. There’s not a lot of setup involved.

Beyond the size, I also immediately noticed that this feels well made. I’ve tried air fryers in the past that I didn’t quite trust to heat up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. But this one has super solid construction. I’m not worried that it’s going to short-circuit or stop working on a whim. It’s here for the long haul. 

Using the Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer

This air fryer oven couldn't be easier to use. The control panel is intuitive, and you select upper or lower, plus the mode you want to use. You can adjust the temperature or time, then start. It's so clear you won't feel as if you're going to mix up the upper and lower. It's practically foolproof.

The control panel will also tell you when to turn, shake, or flip your food. As long as you stay nearby, it's not going to let you mess up your recipe. 

Also, there is an app, but, realistically, I’m not connecting my appliances to an app. It seems every appliance has an app, and it’s just too many to keep track of unless it’s something I truly use every day. If you do decide to download the app, it has pre-programmed recipes that can make your life easier as you navigate cooking different items.

My first test was a Trader Joe's meal, of course. I was coming out of a long day of deadlines and meetings, and I was desperate for a late lunch. I had the Indian veggie burgers and bird's nests, so the pressure was high to get these right.

I tossed the bird's nests in the air fryer basket and the veggie burger in the toaster oven. I didn't mess with the sync finish on this first round, but both came out perfectly. I had high expectations for the bird's nests, which they met with the perfect crisp, but I didn't know what to anticipate with the veggie burgers. I was pleasantly surprised when they cooked quickly and had the loveliest finish. They weren't soggy, undercooked, or burnt. They were actually perfect. A bit crispy, hot all the way through. 

For its shortcomings with design, the toaster oven DOES work.

Test Two: Chicken Nuggets and Fries

Fries are always my go-to test for an air fryer. This should be the one thing that all air fryers do well. And they felt like a good opportunity to try the sync finish, especially with chicken nuggets.

Sync finish promises that it'll hold one item — the one with a short cook time — until the other is finished. The fries would take longer in theory, so I put them in the air fryer basket and the chicken nuggets in the toaster oven. 

Sure enough, it worked. Both came out crispy and warm at the same time. There's no better comfort food meal than fries or chicken nuggets and, if I can do them both in an air fryer at the same time, I'm a happy camper.

How to Clean and Maintain the Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer

There are positives and negatives to appliances that do it all. The positive is the versatility. The negative is that there are more parts and pieces to clean. And the Midea Two-Zone Air Fryer Oven is no exception. There are lots and lots of parts to wash — and nothing is dishwasher-safe.

You have to clean the upper basket, grill tray, crisper plate, drip tray, upper basket, and lower cavity after every use. Each should be cleaned with warm water, dish soap, and a sponge. And each one should be cleaned by hand. That’s a lot of time spent scrubbing versus when I usually clean an air fryer.

I think it’s important to note that I found it incredibly difficult to clean the toaster oven section. Given it’s so flat and small, you’re not really sure if you’re ending up with food crusted to the top and it’s difficult to clean that zone at all. I’m used to the open section of an air fryer that you wipe out with ease. This is new territory, and I’m not sure they’ve perfected the design to the point that it’s ideal for cleaning and maintenance. 

Should You Buy the Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer?

While the Midea Two-Zone Air Fryer Oven does have a few drawbacks in terms of the usability of the bottom drawer, the convenience of the two zones outweighs any negatives. The air fryer portion is a full 6-quart air fryer so, as long as you have the space for a larger air fryer, there’s no reason not to spring for this one. You’re gaining not giving up with this one. 

The major negative, however, is the price. At $249.99, it’s significantly more expensive than almost any other air fryer on the market, and that could be a reason not to buy for anyone on a budget.

Good to Know

Instructions
The Midea Two-Zone Air Fryer Oven comes with an instruction manual that gives step-by-step instructions (though the process is intuitive and clear!).

Warranty
The Midea Two-Zone Air Fryer Oven includes a one-year limited warranty from the date of purchase

Where to Buy the Midea 11QT Two-Zone Air Fryer

The Midea Two-Zone Air Fryer Oven is available to buy directly from Midea, via their Amazon storefront, or from retailers such as Walmart.

How We Test Air Fryers

The Midea Two-Zone Air Fryer Oven was sent to me by Midea, and I used it over a several-week period. Here are a few things I like to look out for when testing air fryers:

When it comes to dressing for the red carpet, Blake Lively is known for her colorful looks that are still timeless and refined.

The It Ends With Us star has also brought this aesthetic into her entryway, with vibrant yet rustic accents that are so dreamy. I've asked interior designers why they work so well in her space and how you can copy the look in your own home.

If you're looking for entryway ideas that will showcase your personality to your guests as soon as they enter your home, Blake's place offers a ton of floral and fun inspiration.

With its thoughtfully curated gallery and rustic touches, Blake Lively’s hallway has lots of eye-catching features.

“The foundation of this inviting space is a brick accent wall, its warm, earthy tones beautifully complemented by dark wood floors that add timeless character,” explains Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

This is complemented by the striking blue console table, which is a beautiful entryway storage choice.

“The table stands in front of the brick wall, creating a visual anchor that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing,” she adds.

On top of this is a candle which adds a welcoming glow for guests, along with two wooden holders that are ideal for storing hats in an entryway. “One of these holds a stylish beige hat with a black band, adding a personal touch to the setting,” Nina adds.

Above the table is a gorgeous flower print that Lily Bloom herself would definitely have in her flower shop.

Nina loves it, saying, “This vibrant piece of art draws the eye and ties together the room’s color scheme, reflecting the hues found throughout the entryway.”

For your own home, you can look for accent pieces that reflect your personal style but stay within an overall cohesive color scheme. “Supporting local artisans and businesses is also an excellent way to find unique pieces that make a statement,” says Pam Hutter, principal designer and owner of Hutter Architects.

The oriental rug on the floor also helps bring in character, with beige and red tones and floral shapes. “This not only adds warmth and texture to the space but also seamlessly brings the whole room together,” Nina adds.

Shop the look

Blake Lively's entryway showcases her impeccable taste and ability to blend different styles.

“It combines rustic elements with vibrant accents, creating an inviting and captivating space that sets the tone for the rest of her home,” Nina finishes by saying.

Want to carry on scoping out her home? We also love Blake Lively’s living room, which is refined yet relaxed.

I've spotted the Scandinavian sleep method all over my TikTok feed, and I think it looks like the perfect solution to my partner's and my nighttime squabbles.

Whether you've seen this method on TikTok too or are just intrigued by the name, I've got you covered with all the info you need to know. It's essentially just having your own separate duvet even if you're sharing a bed, which can help control temperature and therefore improve sleep. I've asked sleep pros for the pros and cons, plus rounded up our top comforters.

If you'd rather keep your best duvet inserts to yourself, rather than have to play tug of war in the night, you're going to want to find out about this.

What is the Scandinavian sleep method?

This sleep method has a Scandi-style name and, just like the design method, it’s actually very simple and breezy.

“The Scandinavian sleep method is all about partners sharing a bed but having their own separate duvets,” explains Marion Crittendon, sleep and respiratory care expert at Order Your Supplies.

“It stops couples having fights over the sheets or getting woken up by someone's midnight acrobatics,” she adds.

Essentially it's like having your own sleep fortress, tailored to your exact liking.

Pros of the Scandinavian sleep method

Like the sound of this? There are plenty of dreamy benefits, from improved sleep to fewer tiffs...

Reduced sleep disruption

Hands up if you’re living with your partner and have ever been disrupted by their movements. Yep, I'm with you there. Thankfully, the Scandi sleep method stops that from happening.

“Having separate duvet inserts will allow you to maintain closeness while addressing individual sleep needs,” says Marion. “Snuggling is great, but so is a good night's sleep.”

Improved temperature control

I know that my partner and I have very different sleep temperatures — I tend to run hot, so I use the best cooling pillows, but he tends to run cooler. I think we’ll solve this problem by having separate duvet inserts.

“Each partner has the freedom to control their sleeping environment according to personal preferences,” says Dr. Sham Singh, sleep expert and psychiatrist at Winit.

He adds that this autonomy can foster a greater sense of individuality while still sharing a bed, which is important for maintaining personal space and comfort.

Conflict resolution

For those who experience bedtime disagreements, such as differing temperature preferences or one partner being a blanket hog, separate bedding can offer a practical solution that stops you arguing.

“By eliminating these sources of nighttime conflict, separate bedding can contribute to a more harmonious relationship overall,” says Dr. Sham.

“It reduces the need for negotiation or compromise on sleep-related issues, allowing each partner to sleep comfortably without disrupting the other,” he adds.

Cons of the Scandinavian sleep method

As with most things, there are some drawbacks to trying out this sleep technique...

Impact on physical contact

One potential downside that Dr. Sham has noticed is that using separate bedding may reduce opportunities for physical closeness and intimacy during sleep.

“Physical contact like cuddling or holding hands while sleeping can enhance feelings of intimacy, comfort, and emotional connection between partners,” he explains.

“When each partner has their own set of blankets or duvets, there might be less spontaneous physical touch during the night,” he adds.

This may lead to a perceived decrease in intimacy over time, which you might not want if you’re sharing your bed with someone you really love.

Financial cost

If you’re looking for budget-friendly bedroom ideas, investing in double the duvet might not be the best thing for you.

Marion explains, “Using separate bedding can be a tad more expensive, and managing multiple duvets may complicate bed-making.”

Maintaining these can also come at a cost, as if you have to load multiple duvet covers into your washing machines, this may increase your electricity bill.

The Scandinavian sleep method is basically all about personalizing your sleep space for maximum Zs.

“It's not your traditional bedtime setup, but hey, who wants to be traditional when you can be well-rested?” Marion finishes by saying.

Want to carry on improving your sleep? Finding the best mattresses and the best pillows may also come in useful.

Our favorite duvet inserts

Want to start giving the Scandinavian sleep method a whirl? These are our favorite comforters that we've tried and tested ourselves.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

Are you having a brat summer? The artist behind the iconic album that's taking the world by storm gave Architectural Digest a look inside her Los Angeles home. 

We can't get enough of her vintage-meets-modern style and interior designers agree. Experts are raving about her unique color palette, eccentric designs, and lived-in feel.

See what the pros think of her cozy abode with these fresh living room ideas, sure to make an impact in any sized space. 

Look inside Charli XCX's living room

Even if you're in a small living room, Charli XCX's space is full of design inspiration. Inside her 1927 Tudor-inspired home, you can find a cozy living room complete with dark wooden beams, white textured walls, and hardwood floors. 

But the old-fashioned design elements don't stop her from achieving a modern look. Charli modernized her living room with pops of color and bold patterns. 

"Charli's living room embraces a maximalist aesthetic with bold colors, patterns, and textures. The room is filled with vibrant artwork, plush velvet furniture, and shiny metallic accents," says Rachel Stringer of Raleigh Realty.

"The decor in Charli's living room combines various styles, including mid-century modern, art deco, and contemporary elements. This eclectic mix creates a unique and visually interesting space," says Rachel.

Adding a mixture of styles also makes a living room look more luxurious, according to designers. 

"The room seamlessly integrates contemporary and vintage-inspired furniture as seen by a combination of different styles for a curated personalized look. A range of textures like plush velvet fabrics and sleek glossy surfaces give depth and luxury thereby emphasizing texture as an important element within modern interiors," says Nitya Seth, an interior designer at NITYANAMYA. 

How to recreate the look

Achieving Charli's look starts with refreshing your living room and adding more life to the room. It's all about balancing styles so one look isn't too overwhelming. If you're in a period home, try adding some modern decor buys and if you're somewhere more contemporary, look for vintage designs.

"Mix and match furniture and accessories from different eras and genres. A vintage-inspired armchair paired with a modern coffee table can add depth and character to the room," says Rachel. 

If you're investing in a statement piece, find pieces in contrasting colors and patterns that will add dimension and visual interest. 

"Spend money on a couch made from patterned velvet and mix it with different kinds of furniture that will add color to your room," says Nitya.

When decorating your living room with some of the best home brands, it's important to remember your personal tastes and preferences are at the forefront. Charli's living room displays her style and personality through color and design.

"To recreate the look of Charli XCX's living room, focus on incorporating bold colors, patterns, and textures, mixing different styles, layering lighting, and adding personalized touches. Remember, the key is to create a space that reflects your unique style and personality while embracing the maximalist and eclectic trends seen in Charli's decor," says Rachel.

I'm often torn when it comes to kitchen appliances. On one hand, I want to keep them as simple as possible. On the other, I want them to do as much as possible. Those two goals are sometimes at odds, and I found that with the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer. 

This air fryer does it all. Seriously. Remember when air fryers were pitched as a way to reheat leftovers, make crispy fries, or bake a crescent roll dessert hack? Forget those days completely. This air fryer is basically a substitute for your oven.

But that comes with an interface that's not as simple as choosing between a few different frying modes presets. This is one of the best air fryers as it cooks quickly, cooks accurately, and can cook anything. 

Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer review

Wondering how this air fryer is different from an oven? It has three different cook modes: classic, chef, and probe. Each has a different purpose, and there are multiple options within each. 

There's a bit of a learning curve in navigating the light-up interface, but, once you learn the dos and don'ts of using an air fryer, you can set it and forget it.

Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer Specifications

What I Thought of the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer

My first impression of the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer was definitely one of slight hesitation. Between the water tank and all the options on the screen, I was a little apprehensive. I'm used to small air fryers that are a little more straightforward. But, as I read through the guide, I realized that this air fryer was giving me options to make the process easier. And that water tank? That's the game changer between meat that's meh and moist. 

You can absolutely use this for all the air fryer standards. Toss in your Trader Joe's meals, your sweet potato fries, and your Brussels sprouts. But where it excels is cooking meat to perfection. I hate standing over an oven wondering when my chicken is going to be done. But, with this air fryer, it does it all for you. It basically sous-vides your meat to perfection. For someone who's never attempted that on my own, this air fryer is about to elevate my dinner party menus (TBD on whether I'll give away my secret).

Add in the app access in Chef mode, and this air fryer is seriously designed to make your life as easy as possible.

And did I mention the look and footprint? Relative to earlier air fryers, this takes up a small footprint in the kitchen. The sleek look and open window frying basket add to its appeal.

Setting Up the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer

I've found that most air fryers are relatively easy to set up, and this was no exception. Take it out of the box, pop the tray into the basket, put the basket into the air fryer, and you're done. There's no true assembly needed, and the ergonomics of this machine are great — the elongated handle makes popping the basket in and out easy.

The water tank was one of the first things I noticed because that's unlike any other air fryer I've tried. It's a small tank, but the air fryer uses it to spray the food in Chef mode and keep it moist. 

Lastly, I played around with the control screen as soon as I turned it on to try to get a sense of what was available. You'll want to pull out the instruction guide here. With so many options, it's helpful to read about the possibilities and understand how to achieve the right type of cooking for each meal.

Using the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer

There's something about the touch screen on here that just made the process of testing the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer so fun! Spinning the dial through options and deciding on the right mode for each meal I made felt like a throwback to an easy bake oven — maybe because this little guy can literally do everything?

It also made dishes that often feel like a hassle to make seem so much easier. Like the idea of pulling out a heavy cast iron skillet to make a steak seems unattainable on a Tuesday night, but throwing one in here? Done.

This air fryer also has the amazing versatility of being able to be both crisp and moist. They've changed the game in technology with the various modes and the water spray feature.

Here are two dishes I tried, and how the air fryer performed.

TEST ONE: FRENCH FRIES

My first air fryer challenge is almost always French fries. I want to make something easy so that I will know exactly whether it's done correctly or not. There's no room for interpretation here. I want them crispy. So I tried the Classic mode on air frying. 

First, I was surprised that it heated up almost instantaneously. I thought I'd have a few minutes to get some emails done but, bam, this was ready!

The fries were done in about ten minutes, which is faster than other air fryers I've tried. I'd seasoned them with oil and truffle salt, and they came out to perfection.

TEST TWO: CHICKEN THIGHS

Next, I tried chicken thighs because I wanted to get a sense of Chef mode and understand if this could really keep the meat moist and tender — especially given how perfectly crispy the fries turned out.

In Chef mode, it uses water atomization, convection heating, and a dual-sensing probe to get exactly the right level of done. I found the Chef mode is easier to navigate through the app (again, the touch screen is amazing but a lot at times), and it lets you check in to see where you are in the process.

Compared to how I normally cook chicken thighs — on the stovetop — this was a breeze. I didn't have to be present, hovering over a skillet. Instead, I knew they were being perfectly cooked right in this small yet powerful machine.

And how did they turn out? Perfect. That Chef mode knows what it's doing. They were slightly crispy on the outside but moist on the inside. I've tried a lot of air fryers, but this might be the one that earns a permanent spot in my kitchen.

Cleaning the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer

The trays and basket for the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer are all dishwasher-safe, so cleaning this air fryer is easy peasy. I'll often hand wash these pieces but, realistically, it's better to put them in the dishwasher to get all of the grease off (though that might be a testament to my own cleaning skills — or lack thereof). A quick wipe of the interior with a microfiber cloth and a bit of water and dishwashing liquid.

Should you buy the Dreo ChefMaker Combi fryer?

If you are looking for an air fryer that's plug and play, allowing you time to focus on enjoying your family (or a cocktail!), then the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer could be your answer to low-stress evenings. You can make steak, pork chops, croquettes, or whatever you're craving with the touch of a button. There's no need to worry about closely watching your food — this machine does it all. And, while it's pricey, time is money, right?

Comparisons

If you like the idea of an air fryer with a clear window, but you're a little hesitant at the price tag of the Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer, there's no need to worry. The Gourmia 7-Quart Fry N'Fold Digital Air Fryer gives you several of the same features, multiple cooking and frying options, and it has a clear front window, but it comes in at a much lower price tag. You'll miss a few of the features, like the water tank, but at $79.99 retail, it could be worth it.

How We Test Air Fryers

Dreo sent me this air fryer, and I tested it with several different recipes including air frying, cooking, and reheating leftovers. This is the assessment process when testing air fryers:

Packaging: The Dreo ChefMaker Combi Fryer comes in a double box, which keeps it safe and sound during shipping. Each piece was wrapped to keep it scratch-free, and there was a guide and book included.

Operation: The experience of using the air fryer is considered, which includes how easy the guide is to follow, how easy the controls are to use, and how the air fryer actually performs. I tried various types of food that require a different end result to understand how each feature works.

Ease of use: An air fryer is only as useful as it is easy to use! I looked at the instructions, the simplicity of the operation, how easy the various trays and parts were to use, and how easily I could get food in and out of the air fryer.

Ease of cleaning: I'm only going to use an air fryer if I can clean it relatively easily! I looked at how easy the parts are to clean and whether they can be cleaned in a dishwasher.

Just like the rest of the world, I've been keeping a close eye on the Olympics, and one of the highlights of this so far has been watching Simone Biles scoop up plenty of medals.

I had a little look on her TikTok, spotted a video of her dancing in her living room, and really fell for the casual yet luxe look she's got going on. I've asked interior designers why her couch, cozy blanket, paneled walls, and more work so well in the space.

If you're looking for living room ideas that are as beautiful as they are practical, Simone's space offers plenty of inspiration.

The world-renowned gymnast, known for her grace and strength, has brought the same qualities into her home decor. 

“Her living room is a stunning example of cozy elegance, combining contemporary touches with a warm, inviting atmosphere,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

The focal point of Simone Biles' living room is a large gray couch, offering ample living room seating for family and friends.

“Its soft, neutral hue provides a versatile foundation that can easily adapt to different decor styles,” says Nina. “Draped over the back is a light gray chunky throw, adding a layer of texture and warmth.”

She says this combination invites you to sink into the couch and relax, making it a perfect spot for unwinding after a long day or hosting intimate gatherings.

One of the standout features in Simone's living room is the white shiplap accent wall behind the TV, which is mounted above the stylish living room fireplace.

“The wood-paneled walls add architectural interest while giving the illusion of a larger space. For smaller homes, painting one accent wall or adding simple wood trim can achieve a similar stylish effect,” says Pam Hutter, interior designer and principal of Hutter Architects.

Nina agrees, adding that the TV's placement above the fireplace optimizes space and maintains a clean, streamlined look, while the light wood mantel below ties back to the room's flooring.

She continues, “The light wood floors in Simone's living room are a key element in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Their natural finish adds a touch of organic beauty, complementing the light wood mantel and enhancing the overall sense of harmony in the space.”

This is all tied together by the chic ceiling fan. “Its sleek design complements the room's modern elements, such as the gray couch and shiplap wall, while its functionality ensures comfort throughout the year,” Nina says.

If you’re a homeowner and are looking for ways to keep a room cool, investing in one of these is a smart long-term solution. 

Shop the look

By combining these elements, Simone has created a living room that is both stylish and inviting, reflecting her personal taste and the qualities that have made her a champion. 

“This space is a testament to the power of thoughtful design, with it being not only beautiful but also a true sanctuary,” Nina finishes by saying.

Looking for more celeb room inspo? I’m also a fan of Lewis Hamilton’s living room, which has plenty of quiet luxury touches.

The rise of kitchen floating shelves is due to its easy on the eye (and stylish) look, teamed with the practicality of open storage. 

Although we all love putting our tableware and kitchen paraphernalia away most of the time it's lovely to be able to display some favorite pieces too. You can still have wall cabinets or opt for a minimalist approach and just have floating shelves – the choice is yours. 

Below we showcase a selection of shelf ideas to give you ideas for your own space.

1. Mix it with traditional shelving

This beautifully crafted kitchen teams modern floating shelving above the sink with a more traditional style of open shelving on the right. Linked by accessories in wood and their artisan aesthetic, both designs work well together. 

"Breaking up your cabinets with shelving creates character, and dimension and adds design interest, softening the look and feel of your kitchen," says Keri Lainas, owner and principal designer, Keri Michelle Interiors.

For a similar floating shelf check out Amazon's Sorbus 2 Maple Wood Floating Shelves, and if you love the green cabinetry have a look at Benjamin Moore's Herb Garden 434, a warming green with yellow undertones. 

2. Mid century modern style

If you love a particular design era then don't worry, you can still have floating shelves, as you can see from this stunning mid-century modern-inspired kitchen. 

For a cohesive look try to make them an extension of your cabinetry for a seamless and stylish finish. Then accessorise with pieces that you love that are also relevant to the period you've picked. 

Wayfair's Carsin Irregular Reclaimed Elm Floating Shelf would work well in a space like this.

3. Opt for crisp white

Kitchen floating shelves can be so useful, not only are they practical but can be used for decorative purposes too.

"People who like their things on display or out rather than in cupboards are generally keen cooks or collectors," says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens. "I love a shelf above a sink or a cooker, or a corner bookshelf high up above a seating area full of cooking books."

We love the plants in this black-and-white kitchen, they add life and interest to this bold scheme and soften the edges. To copy this biophilic design have a look at our ideas below. 

4. Add a rail to your shelf

Give your floating shelf an extra touch with a brass rail to stop anything you might have placed there from slipping off – especially if they're propped up.

We love it when hardware ties a scheme together so choose a rail that matches your look. In this farmhouse-style kitchen brass is the chosen metallic and it looks fabulous with the mid-toned wood cabinetry.

Amazon's WOPITUES Floating Shelves come with a gold metal guardrail just for this reason and offer peace of mind that items won't slip off.

5. Jet black for a sleek look

For a small kitchen that needs invaluable storage consider floating shelving that's narrow in depth. It will ensure you can still store the essentials like tea, coffee, and most used cooking items, but without compromising on space. 

This black ENHET shelving from IKEA is a slight twist on the conventional floating shelves but has the same result. You can even add hooks so you and hang a tea towel or oven gloves from it if required. 

6. Choose marble for a luxe feel

There's nothing quite as luxurious as a marble in a kitchen, and if you're using it on countertops and as a backsplash then consider extending that to your floating shelves.

Brittany Farinas, founder and creative director, House of One explains, "Using marble shelves in a kitchen can be a stylish and practical choice. In this case, the Calcutta vintage marble used for the open shelving beautifully complements the base cabinetry, creating a cohesive and visually appealing design."

Open shelving is not for everyone, especially if you love a more maximalist approach, Brittany adds, "While some people may be hesitant about open shelving due to concerns about storage, it can actually encourage you to be more intentional about what you display and keep in your kitchen, leading to a cleaner, more curated look."

Copy House of One's beautiful light and airy kitchen with our buys below.

7. Put your accent color on your shelf

If you've chosen an accent color for your kitchen scheme then adding it to your floating shelves is a great idea. 

"Floating shelves in any kitchen are always a must for me if the space allows. They may be trendy but they also create dimension. Cabinets are beautiful but can be very heavy in a space. Floating shelves are functional for storing bowls and glassware and they're the perfect place to add decor like a vase, plant, or candle," says Keri Lainas, owner and principal designer at Keri Michelle Interiors.

We love these black Cloud Terre Set of 4 Arlo Bowls from Nordstrom, super stylish and perfect if your accent color is black.

8. Utilize your space

Wall space is not always easy to find especially in an older property that may have low ceilings. In these instances, custom-made floating shelving can be the answer. 

It will enable you to make the most of those spaces that a wall cabinet will never fit, but will still give you some fabulous open-plan shelving for your favorite finds. Another bonus about custom-built shelving is you can have them crafted extra deep. 

9. Add a rail underneath

Give yourself some extra kitchen storage by placing a hanging rail underneath your floating shelving.

"Cooks need to grab a pan or ladle quickly and efficiently so open shelves and hanging rails mean everything is easy to put away and easy to find and use quickly," says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens.

For a similar look attach this look at our three top buys below. 

10. Go long and high

In this eclectic kitchen, the floating shelving has been placed high up with pretty patterned plates and yellow teacups and saucers to draw the eye up and across to the yellow wall unit. 

It acts as a decorative aspect in this scheme that's full of texture and layers of design features (we particularly love the plants and foliage in the vase). The wood shelving matches the cabinetry so there's cohesion even though there's plenty going on in this lovely space. 

For a similar yellow check out Lick's Yellow 01 – a creamy yellow that's not too bright, and for longer-length shelving have a scoot around vintage stores for reclaimed wood. 

Our kitchen floating shelves ideas will give you inspiration to try this practical storage solution out in your space. They're ideal for tricky widths as you can have them custom made, and if you wanted you could paint them to suit your scheme. Make them stand out against your chosen wall color or wallpaper, or, choose designs that blend in with your kitchen – white on white for example. 

Whenever I see Ashley Tisdale's home come up on my Instagram feed, a little bit of me expects it to be full-on, Sharpay pink. But, actually, her style is very chic and laid-back.

This time around she's posted a picture of her beautiful bathroom, which brings together quiet luxury and Scandi elements in a relaxed yet refined way. I've asked interior designers why features such as the marble feature wall and natural wooden textures work so well, plus how to get the look at home.

If you're looking to bring the latest interior design trends into your wash space, Ashley's place has lots to draw inspiration from.

Ashley Tisdale’s bathroom combines luxury and understated elegance with its quiet luxury and Scandi-style elements. 

“The first thing that captures your attention is the breathtaking white and gray veined marble, gracing both the floor and the main wall behind the pristine white bathtub,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

She continues, “This choice of marble creates a timeless and sophisticated backdrop, exuding a sense of calm and purity that envelops the space.”

In contrast to the cool tones of the marble, the bathroom features warm, copper-colored fixtures that add a touch of modern opulence. 

“The dark copper faucet gleams above the tub, matched perfectly by a light copper robe hook and towel rod, all contribute to a cohesive, stylish look,” she continues.

These glamorous elements will work well in big and small modern bathrooms, thanks to how eye-catching and timeless they are. 

You can either go for these by themselves or complement them with more subtle elements, just like Ashley has.

“I love how there are so many natural materials — such as the rustic wood of the bath side table — and how the color palette feels warm and serene with just the perfect amount of subtle contrast between the white tub and the brass fixtures,” says Kathy Kuo, interior designer and owner of Kathy Kuo Home.

Nina agrees, adding that the white and brown checkered washcloth adds a touch of rustic charm, enhancing the cozy feel. The Jacquotha Towels from Amazon are similar and come in four fun colors.

“Focusing on high-quality, sustainable materials and simplified styles creates an opulent yet environmentally-friendly design,” adds Pam Hutter, interior designer and principal of Hutter Architects.

Shop the look

Ashley’s bedroom brings together luxury and functionality with thoughtful accessories and design elements.

“With its perfect blend of textures and tones, it invites you to unwind and rejuvenate, making everyday moments feel like a luxurious escape,” Nina finishes by saying.

Want to see more of her home? I also love Ashley Tisdale’s dining table, which lets simplicity shine.

I’m a firm believer that eating isn't just about taste, and that half of the eating is in the looking. In my opinion, well-presented food only goes so far if the plates aren’t pretty. 

I’ve had some of my favorite meals on European vacations — cacio e pepe as the sun sets over a Tuscan piazza, cheese and wine by the pool at a Provincial chateau, and incredible tapas overlooking the lights of Barcelona. And, whilst I can’t directly replicate the experience of dining on the European continent, I can certainly evoke memories with my dinnerware choices. 

Luckily, I’ve spotted tons of Italian decor for kitchens in homeware stores, which has inspired a whole host of al fresco dining ideas. My dinner party guests eat it up every time and, trust me, yours will too.

How to channel Eurosummer on your table

Whenever I’m looking for hosting essentials, I gravitate towards Eurosummer-style tableware, which, of course, includes the Amalficore aesthetic. 

When you think of dining in Europe, you’ll likely envision a table clad with a white linen tablecloth, olive wood serving accessories, and a neon-orange Aperol Spritz’ in the hand of every guest, a drink that has become synonymous with the Italian dining experience, and a striking tablescape staple in itself. 

I recommend combining the charm of a French rustic farmhouse, alongside coastal kitchen ideas, reminiscent of the cool, blue waters in Greece, and warm-toned Spanish design for your interiors. When shopping, keep an eye out for natural woods, bright colors, and coastal motifs, such as shell designs. This eclectic interior mix is what makes the Eurosummer aesthetic so perfect for your dinner table, as you can adapt it to your personal taste.

It’s not too complicated to combine the dining table aesthetics of these glorious European countries, you just have to know where to look. That’s where I come in.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

Where to buy European dinnerware

Part of my job as a social editor for an interiors magazine, believe it or not, is shopping. Once a month, I head out to the mall to see which new pieces the big homeware stores have in stock and, this month, I could practically smell freshly baked croissants in the air; Eurosummer had arrived on the tables of Anthropologie, H&M Home, and Zara Home. From serving dishes to linen napkins, the European aesthetic had washed up on our shores, and it took all of my willpower not to buy everything I laid my eyes on.

Looking for more European inspiration? Travel further north to learn everything you need to know about Scandinavian interior design, or, alternatively, check out our outdoor decor ideas to spruce up your al-fresco dining experience; dining outside is just *so* continental. 

Look, I get it. You've stumbled across the perfect cute kitchen appliance, put it on your kitchen countertop, and then found that it looks a little out of place.

Don't stress though — I've got you covered with plenty of pro-approved advice that will help you style your colorful appliance in a way that will make it shine and that will make your cooking space look cohesive. Coordinating with existing decor and creating contrast are just a couple of their top tips.

Whether you're shopping for small kitchen appliances and want to ensure your place is ready for your latest pick or already have a pretty one you want to style properly, these tips will come in handy.

1. Go for contrasting colors

When styling a small kitchen appliance, it can be tempting to decorate your whole kitchen in the same color. But, this can actually look too matchy and will leave you with a space that lacks character.

“For example, choosing bold colors like red, blue, or yellow paired with white cabinetry creates contrast,” explains Nick Chatzigeorgakis, interior designer at Intrabuild.

He continues, “I recently used Smeg's retro fridge in red and their yellow kettle and toaster for a client to create a bold, striking look.”

This is also a brilliant tip for those searching for retro diner kitchen ideas, which are all about bright shades matched with playful accessories.

2. Pair with existing decor

I know how tempting it can be to pick the most Instagrammable kitchen appliance. But, if you want to make sure your new beauty looks brilliant, make sure that it matches what you already have. 

“When styling colorful kitchen appliances, it's essential to coordinate them with your existing décor to achieve a harmonious look,” says Tommy Mello, design expert and founder of A1 Garage Door Service.

“For instance, if your kitchen features neutral tones, vibrant appliances can add a pop of color without overwhelming the space. Conversely, in a kitchen with bold colors, choosing appliances in complementary shades can create a balanced aesthetic,” he explains. 

3. Paint walls and cabinets

If you do have your heart set on a dreamy appliance and you’re a homeowner, painting is a fun way to ensure it matches your space.

“Choose a color scheme of two to three complementary colors and paint walls and cabinets, then select appliances and accents to match,” suggests Nick.

“For example, Robin's egg blue walls with lemon yellow cabinets and turquoise accents are fresh and fun,” he says. I love this idea and think it would work well in Amalficore-style kitchens.

From here, Nick says to keep the rest of the space minimal so the color takes center stage.

4. Pick renter-friendly accents

Renting and can’t use paint? There are lots of easy ways to ensure appliances look chic and cohesive in colorful kitchens.

“For renters, swap standard cabinet knobs for decorative ones in your chosen accent color,” Nick says.

He continues, “You can also use colorful linens, dinnerware, and glassware to tie it together.”

If you’re looking for beautiful glasses, I have the Zaza Lustered Glasses from Anthropologie, which work brilliantly as bar cart accessories.

5. Switch them up seasonally

For those who enjoy changing up their kitchen’s look and have a little more budget to play with, going for seasonal updates with appliances and accessories can be a fun way to keep things fresh. 

“Renters can swap out small appliances and accessories seasonally to reflect the colors and vibes of each season, using placemats, tablecloths, and dish towels that can be easily changed,” Tommy says.

You could also invest in a set of versatile, colorful appliances that can be rotated in and out of use.

“The Empire Red KitchenAid Stand Mixer from Amazon is perfect for adding a vibrant touch, especially during festive times,” he says. It's also great to have handy for whipping up Christmas bakes.

You can also switch around the types of appliances you have on display depending on the season. For example, the best ice cream makers are brilliant for warmer months, while panini presses work best during cooler ones.

With the right styling, colorful appliances, and a cohesive color scheme can transform a kitchen into a stylish, memorable space. 

“Focus on accent colors you love and the overall feel you want to achieve. Then choose high-quality materials and reputable brands to bring your vision to life,” Nick finishes by saying.

If you want to carry on elevating your cooking space, finding kitchen countertop decor will also be useful.

Colorful kitchen appliances we love

During the process of designing a new kitchen, or remodeling an existing one, there's a key question that always comes up – should kitchen floors match the walls? 

It does really depend on personal choice and whether you love cohesion or prefer a more characterful kitchen design. But there are some caveats in that matching floors and walls could be as simple as all white, or you could have matching floor and wall tiles. 

Below we look into the pros and cons of both and how to make them work for you. At the end of the day, choosing the best kitchen ideas is about personal choice and your individual style. 

Prices were correct at the time this article was published.

Should kitchen floors match the walls? 

If you love things to match up then yes, because it will create cohesion and flow, especially in a small kitchen. 

Principal and founder of Crain & Ventolo, Robert Ventolo agrees "Matching kitchen floors and walls can create a cohesive look in modern, small, or open-plan kitchens."

However, the rest of your scheme needs to be right to make it work, Robert adds, "It can be impractical in high-traffic areas, eclectic designs, or where maintenance is a concern; I typically use contrasting elements and practical materials for functionality and visual interest."

If you love the floor tiles here then take a peek at Wayfair's Oxide Matte Metallic Wall and Floor Tiles, ideal for an all-encompassing look. 

How can I make matching kitchen floors and walls work?

For a restful look consider matching the walls and floors, this works well if your kitchen is small and needs brightening up. 

White walls and floors will lift a space and the flow between the two will create a clean and fresh look, "For a smart wraparound white look, whitewash your floorboards. This is easy to do and looks very effective. For a more subtle, natural result, opt for limed oak which can very work well in a modern or traditional country setting," agrees Chrissie Rucker, OBE and founder of The White Company. 

"All-encompassing color creates an atmosphere of calm where nothing is fighting for dominance. Limited color palettes make styling a room easier too, you can be much more selective, not necessarily keeping to that same color but being a little more restrained with your choices," advises Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL Kitchens. 

Chrissie adds, "Always opt for warm whites rather than cold, bluey-white tones. Ivory, alabaster, chalk; there are countless soft whites on the market so get in some sample pots and try before you buy."

Choose a creamy white as Chrissie advises, we like Benjamin Moore's Floral White OC-29, it's an easy on-the-eye shade that's less harsh than brilliant white. 

How can I mix and match my floors and walls?

If matching floors and walls isn't for you then embrace the opposite – which is to have pattern and or color instead. 

This eclectic kitchen has successfully married the two together and it's cleverly done by ensuring the walls and floors both have similar elements. The aqua and white floor tiles work brilliantly with the blue and white wallpaper, the white links the two enough to make it work. 

“When it comes to kitchen floors and walls, a matchy-matchy look feels too contrived and outdated. Whilst keeping to a complimentary color or hue, I recommend mixing materials to create a space that has depth and character, we used our Anthropology Green tiles in this fabulous kitchen," says Damla Turgut, founder, Otto Tiles & Design US.

Unless you want a complete pattern clash it's a case of pairing the right tones according to Damla. "If your kitchen is part of an open plan layout then your floor will likely be led by the look and feel of the overall space, so your kitchen walls are a chance to add color, pattern, and texture. If your kitchen is a separate room, I think it’s a great opportunity to have fun with a patterned floor paired with a plain wall.”

For a similar wallpaper try Lick's Mindful 02 Wallpaper, the subtle blue wavy lines on a pale blush background will look great with the floor above. 

When to avoid using matching floors and walls

For maximalist lovers, matching your kitchen floors and walls is most likely not for you, instead, you need to embrace as much pattern as you like. Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages says:

"Our personal preference is for bold, colorful and what can sometimes be deemed unconnected patterns – a whimsical storytelling wallpaper with a geometric floor design for example. Something solid and bold on the floor grounds the more free pattern of a repeat design and it’s the variety of these patterns that create energy and visual interest."

Another key element for this bold look is to play with scale, Jamie adds, "We’re also big believers in mixing up scales, so if you have a small scale pattern on the walls, then it’s a good idea to choose a larger, plain design for the floor. It helps to keep a room scheme cohesive and means your wallpaper takes center stage without the distraction of a busy floor."

For a similar floor tile (that could also go on walls) look at Wayfair's Honeycomb Marble Mosaic Wall and Floor Tiles in Nero Marquina.

Kitchen floors can match the walls if that's the look you're after, and it can look great if you choose the right colors – you can opt for an all white or cream look for a country cottage or minimalist style for example. Or, if you prefer a maximalist look then following the mix and match principle for a beautiful eclectic look.

So you're thinking of creating a basement kitchen? The basement often becomes the forgotten corner of the home, filled with tools, spare car parts, or perhaps just an extra fridge or freezer. However, this overlooked space holds incredible potential! 

With a little creativity, you can transform this space into a brilliant basement kitchen, adding valuable liveable space to your home and enhancing your overall lifestyle. Imagine transforming your basement into a vibrant culinary hub.

Create a bespoke area for cooking, dining, and entertaining with these handy kitchen ideas for your basement.

1. Multifunctional space

The basement is generally considered the coolest part of the house, with naturally lower temperatures and reduced humidity levels. If you’re looking to convert yours into a fully functional kitchen, adding a wine storage unit, like this solid wood wine rack from Wayfair, would be a brilliant way to utilize the space’s unique properties. 

If your basement is spacious enough to accommodate a kitchen island, stools, or even a full dining area, you can transform it into a fabulous hosting space. Wine storage near the kitchen island can also create an accessible ‘wine station’, complete with a countertop, storage for glasses, and a wine refrigerator. 

2. Modern designs

Opening up the basement doesn't mean compromising on style or personality. For daring designers, thinking outside the box with custom-designed countertops and units can completely transform your space. Instead of viewing the basement as merely a functional addition, think of it as a whole new layer to showcase bold design choices. 

For example, the kitchen featured here includes unique geometric drawers that not only stand out but also cleverly maximize space. Another intriguing idea for design-conscious kitchen owners is adding stained glass accents. 

Architect and founder of Drafting Services, Brian Curren suggests, “Stained glass accents add a touch of artistry and color, make your basement kitchen stand out with unique visual interest. Try stained-glass panels in the center of cabinet doors or as a backsplash above the sink.”  

Embrace these creative elements to turn your basement into a stylish, standout space.

3. Family-friendly areas

Large open-plan kitchens are a hit with families, allowing everyone to be together while doing their own thing. Parents can prep food while keeping an eye on the kids playing or doing homework. Spacious breakfast bars and island units, like this portable kitchen island from Wayfair, are favorites because they’re perfect for cooking and socializing together. 

Jason Lamprey, owner of Square One Construction, tells us, "For a household with a growing family, a basement kitchen should focus on workflow and storage. A prep sink, double wall oven, pantry, and rollout shelving provide everything needed for efficient meal prep and cleanup." 

Incorporating a dining area into the open-plan design further enhances the space and extends its possibilities. Bring in a fresh modern color to the walls, patterns, or quirky design elements for a playful, creative vibe.  And if your basement kitchen opens directly into the garden, even better! 

4. Small spaces

Even the smallest of basements can be redesigned to become a functional and useful space. A few simple units and shelves can transform an underused area into something practical and efficient. 

Andy Roe CEO of Roe Paint suggests, "For small spaces, focus on essentials like adequate cabinetry, counter space, and good lighting. Add mini-fridges or drawer microwaves to save space." 

A small basement kitchen works best as a secondary space to complement your ground-floor kitchen or as a separate area for guests. For those who'd like to incorporate a dining element, a slimline breakfast bar or fold-out dining table, like this extendable table from Wayfair, could be just the answer. 

When working with a small space, consider elements such as slimline dishwashers, which eliminate the need for drying space, and clever thin pull-out units. Keep the paint colors airy and breezy to avoid making the space feel too confined.

5. DIY additions

Redefining an unused basement space can be a dream project for DIY enthusiasts. For those who enjoy getting hands-on with their design and adding a personal, handmade touch, wood kitchens are a fantastic option. 

Consider finishing the units with stained slats or wood slats in varying widths to showcase the natural grain and texture. This unique take on traditional kitchen design can be endlessly customized to fit your vision, much like this kitchen by Sebastian Cox for deVOL. 

Using wood allows DIY enthusiasts to custom-build kitchen islands and other features to perfectly suit their needs.

6. Seating for socializing

Converting a light-deprived basement can still turn out fantastic! Picture it as an open-plan cooking and socializing area, perfect for comfy seating and a widescreen TV without any glare from outside light sources. 

With an open layout, you can easily socialize with your guests while whipping up a feast. If your basement lacks natural light, consider making it an open-plan kitchen and social space by leaning into a moody design with muted grays and sleek blacks. Use plenty of under-cabinet lighting, like these rechargeable lights available on Amazon, and spotlights to brighten things up, creating a cozy and stylish space that’s perfect for entertaining! 

To really kit your space out, Moe Soloff, Kitchen Specialist at Fabuwood advises us to, "Include a snack bar with a mini-fridge, microwave, and popcorn machine and opt for cabinets with soundproofing features to keep noise levels in check."

7. Minimal designs

For those who appreciate simple, pared-back design, transforming a basement space can be the perfect opportunity to work from a blank slate. Opt for flat, matte, handle-free cabinets paired with light wood accents to maintain an emphasis on simplicity and functionality, stripping everything down to its essential elements. 

A minimalist basement kitchen thrives on ample visible floor space and polished concrete fits seamlessly into this aesthetic, offering a smooth, reflective surface that keeps things uncomplicated. 

For storage, think of natural wood, stone, and marble elements to introduce warmth and texture. Emphasizing light and space is key so style lends itself best to a basement space that has access to the garden or outdoor area. 

Whether you're planning a full-scale basement renovation to add an entirely new floor to your house or transforming a small, unused space into something practical, even the most overlooked areas can become stylish and functional. More importantly, these changes can add significant value to your home and open up new possibilities for how you live and entertain. With a bit of creativity and thoughtful design, you’ll be happy you made the investment! 

When I think of Lindsay Lohan, I can't help but think of Mean Girls pink and all that Y2K realness. But when it comes to her home, Lindsay actually takes a more serene, beachy approach, which is super on trend this year.

She has brought this into her baby's nursery bedroom, which is filled with soft textures and hues that will work well in kids' rooms and other areas of the house. I've asked interior designers why features such as the mural, storage bed, and nautical motifs work so well and how to get the look on a budget.

For those looking for coastal bedroom ideas, Lindsay's space offers plenty of inspiration. 

I’ve seen coastal grandmother and nautical decor making huge waves this year, with everything from coastal kitchens to bedrooms like Lindsay’s being popular.

“Lindsay Lohan’s bedroom, designed as a nursery, is a serene coastal haven that beautifully blends wood, white, and blue tones to create a nature-inspired, peaceful retreat,” explains Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

The most eye-catching feature has to be the painted boat mural, which adds a peaceful addition to the space. 

“If you don't want to directly paint on your walls, you can use a minimalistic wallpaper of nature,” says David Silva, interior designer at HomeRem LLC. “Or, you can use minimalistic posters to hang either on one wall to create a focal point, or throughout the room to balance the atmosphere.”

The bedding and accessories further enhance the theme with animal-inspired gray and white sheets adorned with birds and deer patterns. “White and gray throw pillows, including a standout white pillow featuring a gray coral design, add layers of comfort and style to the daybed,” Nina adds.

As well as having a beautiful design, it also has plenty of practical bedroom storage ideas. “The daybed also has practical storage drawers along the bottom, offering both comfort and functionality,” Nina explains.

David agrees, adding, “Using under-bed storage keeps the space open and de-cluttered. With everything tucked neatly under the bed, occupants can better appreciate the calming atmosphere.”

He continues, “If you have a traditional bedframe with a gap underneath, you can get under-bed storage that slides right underneath.” 

For example, David suggests trying the Amazon Basics Under Bed Fabric Containers, which have loop handles for easy pulling.

Shop our Lindsay Lohan bedroom edit

With just a few clever design features, Lindsay has transformed this small space into a dreamy place for her child to rest.

“Lindsay nursery is a harmonious blend of nature-inspired elements and coastal serenity, creating a space that is both tranquil and inviting,” Nina finishes by saying.

Want to see more rooms designed by The Parent Trap star? We also love the rest of Lindsay Lohan’s coastal villa, which is luxurious and refined.