Melissa Epifano

Why hello! I'm Melissa, and as the global editor in chief of Real Homes, my aim is to help our community design homes that feel authentic, real, and functional. Though we all love aspirational images and celebrity houses, my team and I are motivated to create content that makes sense for your lifestyle, needs, and interests, whether you own a home, rent an apartment, share a space with your parents, or live in a cozy converted van. I myself am a renter and am constantly seeking out ways to personalize my home, which is, as many people know, a more challenging task than it sounds. When I'm not editing home content, I'm usually staring at birds through binoculars, curled up with a good book, or devouring a new flavor of ice cream.

My niches
Home trends and color schemes. I deeply believe your living space has an enormous impact on your mood and the rest of your life. It's meant to be your safe space and is a reflection of who you are. I think understanding the design trends or styles that are applicable to you and how color influences a space can help you build rooms that make you (and your roommates or guests) feel welcome and relaxed.

Why listen to me?

I earned a degree in journalism from the University of Oregon, and after spending a small period of time in the wedding planning industry, I dove into editorial. I cut my teeth in New York City, covering fashion and beauty but eventually making my way into the world of homes. I've spent several years working as a writer and editor for sites including The Spruce, Apartment Therapy, Forbes, MyDomaine, People, InStyle, Real Simple, and Lonny. I track trends like it's a competitive sport but am equally excited about covering products and style ideas that stand the test of time. I work with interior designers as well as real homeowners and renters to get a greater understanding of what's important and turn that into digestible, informative stories.

About my Real Home...
I'm a reformed color minimalist. While I used to only decorate with white, black, and beige, I've recently had a change of heart. Though the foundation of my home is neutral in color, I'm obsessed with adding splashes of color in any way possible. Lately, it's been cobalt blue and neon pink, which have been much-needed boosts in my all-gray rental flat. 

My fave home buys

I love coffee and have been waxing poetic about the Aeropress for over a year now. Both my Nespresso and French press have been relegated to the bottom shelf and haven't seen the light of day since. I also have a ceramic cobalt blue serving board that I try to break out at every chance I get — even if it's just me eating cheese and crackers solo.

On my to-buy list

Cozy Earth's comforter has been on my wish list for a while now. The brand's bamboo sheets have genuinely changed my life and quality of sleep, so I'd like to wrap up and hibernate in the comforter. 

I am currently working on...

Helping our readers bring more color and personality into their small spaces. It can be tough when you're working with a compact space, but it's possible to make it your own.