Jess Bunge – Emily Henderson https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com Tue, 27 Jan 2026 07:12:59 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9 https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/cropped-Favicon-2-32x32.png Jess Bunge – Emily Henderson https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com 32 32 The 11 Decor Trends That Will Be Hitting Your Feeds (And Homes) In 2026 https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/11-decor-trends-2026 https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/11-decor-trends-2026#comments Tue, 27 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/?p=394961 This is the last installment of our official 2026 trend posts. We’ve covered kitchens, bathrooms, colors, and now…decor. I know…]]>

This is the last installment of our official 2026 trend posts. We’ve covered kitchens, bathrooms, colors, and now…decor. I know this “business as usual” content can feel like whiplash to what is going on in the real world. But if you are in need of something light, just for a moment, I have been pouring over the design side of the internet to find the most fun and best decor trends for 2026. Now, this doesn’t mean what was “on trend” last year or years before is out, but instead, additional fun things to consider and be on the lookout for. Let’s get to it!

Thick (& Sometimes Matted) Frames

For a minute, the design world has heavily favored thin, delicate frames. Lots of float mounting in there, too! And if I’m honest, a thin frame is still my personal preference in my home. BUT, given that the elevated English cottage style is still going very strong, it only makes sense that a thicker, vintage frames are coming back in a big way.

I do also think that with wallpaper that’s busier and more colorful, a thick frame helps a piece of art to stand out and not get lost in the overall pattern.

They are very good at adding instant vintage charm and soul to a room. Had all the frames in this wonderful space been newer and thinner, it still would have been a lovely design, but the feel wouldn’t have had that same visual depth.

Surprise, surprise, this example is one of my favorites and shows that this trend isn’t just for one style. No wallpaper. No floral patterns. Just clean, modern, simple lines, and soft tones. Plus, that beautiful frame configuration…I couldn’t love it more.

This room by Heidi is definitely what I mean by “elevated English cottage style,” and she is one of the best at it. This style may not always be “the #1 trend,” but it will never be “out”. Now, we are also here to talk thick frames, so take a peek at the two stacked above the bed. The gilded gold warms up the room, adds soul, and the dark paintings really ground the space.

These frames aren’t quite as thick as most of the others, but they aren’t thin either, and show how they work with yet another, far more modern style.

I believe this is a styled product shot from the design firm Omerozturk Interiors, but look how beautiful the contrast of the modern furniture and color palette is with the thick vintage frame on the wall. They work perfectly together, creating just enough tension. 10/10.

Tin

When I brought up to the team that I thought tin was going to be big this year, I was waiting for them to tilt their heads and raise one or both eyebrows. But before any of that could happen, Caitlin shrieked an overwhelming “YES!” I just don’t think you can put a price on that kind of design validation:) Apparently, Caitlin had been pinning all kinds of tin decor, so we just might be onto something…

However, I don’t think all of these examples are 100% tin and may lean more towards tarnished silver (?), so we can think of it more as a “tin aesthetic” too.

This bathroom and custom metal shower screen stopped me in my tracks the moment I first laid my eyes on it. The whole space is filled with incredibly intentional and beautiful design choices, but the metal (tin-like) screen is one for the books.

While different in that it’s the whole back wall, this tin/silver wall paneling is quite the showstopper, too.

Ah, my FAVORITE category…lighting. This incredibly cool lamp is a collaboration between Katharina Marie Herold and Alana Burns. It has that thin, wonderful metal work with such a beautiful patina. Would I be a happier person if I owned one of these beauties? I mean, probably:)

This one is an American antique tin chandelier from the late 18th to early 19th century. What a piece! I bet we’ll be seeing more of these types of pieces on our feeds. The thing I love so much about tin or thin metals in general is how delicate and malleable they are. I love the little shapes, how charming the indented patterns are, and when they are curled like in the circle art piece below…

It feels dark, delicate, unique, has movement, and grounds the space without taking it over.

Chik Bamboo Blinds

Originally from Northern India, this style of woven, patterned blinds is anything but new. However, I feel like I’ve been seeing this lighter-toned version more than ever. The light-colored bamboo and white fabric trim add a textured softness to a room. I mean, that’s exactly what they did in this wonderful space. Had they chosen a dark fabric shade, the room would still be lovely, but far more moody and rich. Both options are great, but evoke very different energies.

This one has a gilas pattern, adding another layer of visual texture. It’s playful but leans traditional in a really lovely way.

There are other trim and pattern colorways too, if white and tan isn’t what you’re looking for. It’s a small switch that makes a massive difference in impact.

These sweet blinds don’t just belong in colorful, pattern-filled homes. I really love that pop of pattern rolled up in the window. It’s quiet, but you feel it.

And finally, if THE Jake Arnold is putting them in his projects, you know it’s a great choice.

Drapes + Relaxed Roman Shade Combo

Staying in the window treatment world. I’ve been noticing more of the drapes + relaxed roman shade combo in the same (or very similar) fabric. When done right, it’s sooooo romantic, no?? This first example is from a trip to Paris that designer Michelle Gage took, and those window treatments have likely been there for many years, but they are such a beautiful example. And is a reminder that this is, of course, not new;)

If you scroll to the second photo, you’ll get a better view of that breathtaking window treatment combo. I can only assume that being in this room feels like sleeping in a cloud.

You don’t need to have a valance, but it’s a fun addition if you love the look of it. And because each piece is the same color, it doesn’t look too busy.

The Roman shades in this example are the least “relaxed” but still very romantic and so beautiful. The butter yellow of the window treatments and the walls simply feels like a hug for your eyes.

Wall Plates

This was definietly of trend of 2025, but it seems to be growing and with full force. Almost every room on my feed has wall plates. Kitchens (of course), dining rooms (duh), but also living rooms, bedrooms, and bathrooms. This decor trend completely transcends almost every style. It’s a fairly easy way to make a room feel uniquely decorated because no two plated walls are the same. This one above kept strictly to the space’s color palette, but went slightly more traditional than the overall style of the room. They are also placed very uniformly, which is a great option or…

…just choose a few you love that are different styles and sizes.

There are about 10 insanely cool things about this dining room (the stump CABINET being one of them), but this collection of plates makes me so happy. They are playful, whimsical, but deeply chic. I also love that they extended the display to the window wall as well, instead of just using the one main wall. It’s just a little unexpected in the best way.

Oh, looking for adorable food-themed plates to hang on your wall? Well, they may all be in this lovely room! The amount makes such a statment but it’s also deeply fun. Decor can and should be at least a little eccentric.

But maybe you want plates that are a little quieter in color and pattern. Enter these beautiful metal plates over this fireplace. These plates are still fun, add a 3-dimensional element, but let’s the other colorful art be the main color attraction.

This home is the alpine retreat of the late Rosita Missoni and is said to be filled with wonderful found treasures. I think that’s why I love wall plates so much in general. They can be easily collected over time and tell stories from your life. Of course, by the looks of it, these beautiful plates are a set, so likely not individually collected, but wow, are they vibrant and so fun!

See! Bedrooms too. This is such a sweet collection, and I love that while they are all blue and white/cream, the shapes and sizes are different. How great is the shell one!? If I ever design and photograph my kitchen, you can be sure I’ve already started my plate collection:)

Western/Cowboy Themed Art

I’ve been seeing a lot of this style of art for sale on my feeds. I even considered this piece for my living room last year. I love the tones and the vintage but fresh feel they tend to give. The western “aesthetic” is huge in fashion too (I’ve been wearing boots and my mom’s old black leather and turquoise stone belt all over the place, who am I!?). So it’s no real surprise to me that it would also be very popular in home decor, too.

The styles of art vary, but overall, it’s a really versatile look. I love this little cowboy in Sophie Rowell’s cottage bedroom.

You can even combine this and the last plate trend in one:) It’s a perfect wall plate.

Square Knobs

This one was a last minute additon that I noticed as I was finalizing the list… square wooden knobs. Now, I did say in the kitchen trends post that wood on wood knobs to cabinet fronts was on trend. But this is about the shape of knobs on furniture. This is a vintage piece (WOW), but we all know that new trends pull heavily from vintage. It’s the ultimate source of inspiration.

If anyone is ahead of what is cool (because they say so), it’s YSG Studio. This is a sneak peek of a piece that will be in a project reveal this year. The knobs are technically little rectangles that, when everything is closed, make a square. Like all of their projects, I can’t wait to see this one.

This is a gorgeous new piece with incredibly cool square knobs.

And these knobs are a bit of a departure from a simple square, but it still feels in the same world to me. I love all of these so much.

Laqured Pieces

Laquared furniture and laquared walls are coming for us this year in a big way. The whole team feels it. Choosing a shiny lacquered piece (especially a deeply colored one like this burgundy coffee table above) will instantly make your space feel fresh and alive. A heavy sheen will do that. It feels like a modern throwback to a vintage mod style.

Here’s another great coffee table example. This deep, shiny green is totally unexpected but makes this room feel even cooler than it already is. Plus, any spills are an easy cleanup 😉

It’s not all about coffee tables. Dining chairs, lamps, trays, and side tables. The options are nearly endless.

But a larger statement piece, like this desk, is so fun. But notice the pendant too. Both pieces are in the red color family but different tones, so it’s not too matchy.

I had to include these lacquered burgundy cabinets. WOW. An incredible design statement. The floating shelves are also in that same shiny lacquer paint.

Large Scale Photographs

They are back and bigger! Large-scale photos are simply just so cool and chic to me. What is also kinda great is that if you take an awesome photo yourself, get it printed and framed for likely much less than if you were to buy new. But also, if you have the budget, buy from artists!

I adore this example above because the style of the piece contrasts with the aesthetic of the room, but the wallpaper and the photo speak to each other because they both represent nature in different styles.

This large photo is the perfect way to set the mood for this dining. A little meta, if you will. The photo of people joyfully sharing a meal together is what I would assume the owners of this home want to create every time they host. It adds a lot of life to the space, especially when it’s not being used.

First off, notice the lacquered ceilings??? Ok, but back to that beautiful could photo. It again contrasts the space in the perfect amount. The colors are in line with the space, but the contemporary style doesn’t, and it creates that perfect amount of, say it with me, tension.

This is Aly’s (of Aly and AJ) eclectic, warm home. It’s filled with so many fun and wonderful pieces, and one of those is that great photo over the fireplace. The colors perfectly match the room’s palette, raising your eye up, making the room feel taller, and the crispness of the photo adds a distinct, fresh feeling.

Heirloom Textiles

This one has been brewing, and we think this year, heirloom textiles will be even more popular than last. Vintage-inspired blankets with beautiful geometric, plaid-like patterns. This blue one is a favorite.

You can spot the pink one on Kendall Jenner’s bed in her newly revealed mountain home. Heidi Caillier knows trends, but never do you feel that you aren’t looking at something that will stand the test of time. And by the descriptor of “heirloom,” that’s exactly what these textiles are meant to do.

They don’t just have to live on a bed! They are so pretty that you might as well hang them on your walls too:)

Or use them as headboard fabric.

This one is a little more modern, but so fun and still feels vintage.

Swans

Lastly, this is an odd one because I don’t have any environmental shots, but if you’ve looked in almost any design shop, decor section at a big box store, etc, you are seeing swans. I’ve seen them all over Anthro, but also a sweet little independent shop in Brooklyn. Even in fashion. They are coming to a home near you. Be ready. Swans are to 2026 as owls were to 2010.

Ok, that was A LOT of beauty to comsune so I hope it filled you up in a great way. Thank you for being here, thank you for reading, and if you have any thoughts on these decor trends, you know I want to hear ’em.

Love you, mean it.

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Kaitlin Green | From: I’ve Been Secretly Decorating My Best Friends House – Living Room Reveal Today!

]]> https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/11-decor-trends-2026/feed 11 9 Practical Pretty Decor Pieces To Make Life A Little Better in 2026 https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/practical-pretty-decor-pieces-2026 https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/practical-pretty-decor-pieces-2026#comments Fri, 16 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/?p=394543 Yes, I’m/the whole EHD team is still in a hardcore “let’s make life feel and look better” mindset. For me, […]]]>

Yes, I’m/the whole EHD team is still in a hardcore “let’s make life feel and look better” mindset. For me, it’s been everything from health to beauty to home organization. I’m slowly chipping away at things that have been on my list of to-dos for a while, and wow, wow, wow, it just feels really good to check those babies off. So, in the spirit of January, this is a post filled with mostly decor pieces that are both great looking as they are practical (aka will make your life better). Oh, and it’s all from Wayfair, so you know the prices are great, and that shipping is FAST. I promise that there is so much power in making just one small positive change, even if we think it’s a waste of time if we can’t get everything we have on our lists done all at once. It’s not a waste, and it really helps…I know from experience. So let’s dive in, shall we?

Shoe Storage

I know I talked about shoe storage in my post last week about organizing products, but there were only two options (both great if I do say so myself), but I felt we needed more, and with some variety. These will only focus on shoe storage for entryways or mudrooms (aka the kind you see and want to look beautiful).

What a stunner! Modern traditional style, great looking hardware, holds up to 12 pairs of shoes (at least that’s what it says in the description, AND has a drawer! Oh, sorry, it’s also under $150:)) I just think it’s so chic and offers so much function, even beyond the shoe storage. It does come in a few other colors if black doesn’t work with the rest of your decor.

But you might prefer more of a bench style (it’s nice to have a place to sit when you’re putting on or taking off your shoes), and that’s where this wonderful piece comes in. The perfect amount of detail to make it feel special but not “too much,” holds eight pairs of shoes, and is only $120.

This one I LOVE visually, but clearly it doesn’t have the same storage capacity as the others. I see this one more for the person, couple, family, etc, that doesn’t have a shoe storage problem but does need a bench. Then let’s say if a pair of shoes needs a quick temporary home or if guests come over, then this is a perfect fit. The curves of the arms are so good, too.

Boot Trays

The Portland team made sure I included boot trays because they are well acquainted with wanting a nice-looking place to put their wet and/or dirty shoes. I thought this one was pretty ideal! It has a great MCM style, beautiful stain (there are two other options as well), and two tiers! Double the shoes, double the fun, they say:)

However, if you don’t need two tiers and prefer a tray that’s easy to wipe down, either of these are great looking and work with a ton of styles. The galvanized steel one is $40 and wonderfully classic, and the copper one is $46 with that chic and quiet square pattern on the base. Can’t miss with either.

Weather-Proof Mats

If you need a boot tray, you probably need an indoor weather mat, right? We like ones that are simple, have a nice neutral color, and a subtle pattern. This one is great because it really checks those boxes, and if you read about it, this puppy is durable. This slender size is great too for smaller or more narrower spaces.

Two more options! The blue one reminds me of the one in Em’s mudroom, but it also comes in a variety of other colors, and I LOVE the dot pattern on the brown one (which also reminds me of the one in Em’s mudroom:)).

Memory Foam Rug Pad

Em has been using this exact rug pad since her LA days, and as someone who has had the pleasure of walking on it, it’s soooooo nice. I’ve wanted one for a long time, and 2026 may be the year. Here’s what she said about it in 2020:

“With what feels like 1/2″ of memory foam, this rug pad (combined with this comfy rug) is SO COMFY. We originally bought it because our first Persian rug was pretty thin and I wanted concussion-free wrestling periods. It isn’t just non-slip, it adds at least 1/2″ of underfoot serious memory foam comfort. The only downside is that if you get it EXACTLY the size of your rug then you can see the edge of it, but if you get it too much smaller then you can see the line underneath where it ends. So I ended up cutting an inch or two off so the rug just slightly goes over it. Not everyone is as into comfort as I am but I think these little things are subconscious signals that say, ‘come in, sit, relax, stay awhile,’ which is how I want us to feel in our home.”

Pillow Inserts

I just recently replaced my pillow inserts, and wow, do I notice a difference! If you are in the market, one of the reviewers said this about these ones:

“You know those hotel pillows that we all love so much. Well, these are those pillows. They aren’t too soft to where your head sinks down into the pillow, and you wake up with a crook in your neck, and they aren’t too firm when you feel like you slept on a brick all night and wake up with a stiff neck…”

Sold? Ya, me too.

Nightstands With Charging Stations

Why not have your nightstands work even better for you and have a built-in charging station? If you are someone who leaves their phone in another room while you sleep, you are my hero. But for the rest of us, the idea of having the easiest access to a charging port for one of our many devices sounds pretty amazing. But basic and overly modern nightstands are not really our preference. Instead, look at how great these modern traditional ones are. The black ones have cleaner lines and that cute open nook over their two drawers, while the light toned ones have those wonderful rounded feet. No losing with either of these options.

Here are some more modern options. The fluting on the MCM-inspired one is the perfect detail for just enough visual texture (also only $130). Then how cool is the more postmodern one! Its shape is modern, and the wood texture is so organic-looking and beautiful. Just a great option for a beautiful but unexpected piece (and at the great price of $165).

Storage End Of Bed Benches

As I am sure many of you know, EHD LOVES an end-of-bed bench. Make it a storage bench?? Chef’s kiss. So when I saw this one I knew I had to include it. So pretty, elegant, AND practical.

This bench (as proven by these photos) is perfect for either an entry, hallway, or end of the bed, etc. The colors are great, the style is classic, and from the looks of it, it has a decent amount of storage. No notes.

I feel like this one is a sneaky storage bench. When you look at it, you don’t immediately think “storage bench.” The style is versatile, the color is neutral but fun, and because it’s 100% upholstered, it looks cozy too:) All of the benches are around $200, which isn’t bad at all.

Jewelry Organization

Let’s just say most of my costume jewelry is in a very pretty pink Intentionally Blank shoe box. Not a terrible solution, but it’s not a great one or one I want to display. These two, on the other hand, are a different story. If you read any trend posts from last year or Arlyn’s 2026 color trend post from Wednesday, then you know light blue is one of THE colors currently. It took me by surprise last year, too, and I couldn’t love it more. So if you want to dip your toe into the icy blue world, this light blue jewelry box is perfect. But you are more of a classic natural wood tone person and have the budget to go a little over $100, this walnut beauty is a no-brainer. If I were further along in my bathroom design, I would be having a VERY hard time choosing between these two.

But maybe you’re like, “Jess, aren’t you cute with your three little drawers, but that is NOT going to cut it for my jewelry collection.” Fair! So then here is an option that can be wall-mounted or hung over a door. And not only do you get a significant amount of jewelry storage, but you get a wall mirror too! They also come in other fun colors if black doesn’t work with your overall style.

Now this jewelry armoire says to all of these previous options, “hold my beer” when it opens up and reveals SEVEN drawers, two doors for hanging pieces, AND a top compartment with a mirror. I think the next step up from this would be a jewelry closet. It’s simple, stylish, and gives you so much incredible storage!

Cord Management

It’s 2026, and if you somehow don’t have a lot of cords to manage, then I am very impressed! I feel that most of us there’s at least one area in our home where the cords are out of control, and these cute little boxes can help manage the cord chaos. The white one is meant to sort of camouflage into the background with its simple, sleek lines. The green one is more of a “show me off” gal with that fun color and cool texture. Something for everyone…

…unless you prefer a natural material like this wonderful woven basket option! Again, you can’t go wrong.

If nothing else, I hope this post was a little extra encouragement to keep going with those little improvements in whatever way you wish. Wayfair is, of course, just such an incredible resource that we think should always be a place to look for great pieces that make your home and life better…at great prices. Hope you all have a good and safe weekend.

Love you, mean it.

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Kaitlin Green | From: The Mudroom Dog Washing Station: Measurements, How It’s Working + Some Practical Dog Products

]]> https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/practical-pretty-decor-pieces-2026/feed 11 The 3rd Annual EHD “Best Of Design” List – Our Favorite Home Tours And Decor Of 2025 https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/ehd-best-of-design-list-2025 https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/ehd-best-of-design-list-2025#comments Fri, 09 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/?p=394225 Hello and welcome to the EHD “Best Of Design” list for 2025. We decided to wait till January (as opposed […]]]>

Hello and welcome to the EHD “Best Of Design” list for 2025. We decided to wait till January (as opposed to last year) to give a full 365 days for all of the 2025 design content to come out, and I’m so happy we did because I think at least a few of the home tours are from the tail end. Anyway, this post is pure design joy and pure design celebration. There are, of course, so many more tours and products we could have talked about, but challenging ourselves to rein it in and pick only a few is a good practice (and VERY hard for me personally:)). Design is our love and obsession, so we hope you enjoy our picks as much as we do.

Emily

Reath Design is a firm we’ve been loving for years and years now. Most of their projects I love, want to look at and be inside of, but not necessarily LIVE in full-time or own. This is not a knock on her and her team, I’m just less risk-averse and dare I say basic on a day-to-day basis. Many of her designs that I LOVE have intense and unexpected colors and finishes, elements that I love to look at but are too bold for me. But this house, oh this house, I would own it in a second. I’m naturally really attracted to warm minimalist mountain houses with a ton of natural light, but this one is full of so much warmth, detail, and really livable design-forward elements. The kitchen specifically stopped my scroll – that tile selection and layout is so striking and yet feels so perfectly integrated. There is this 70s vibe with all the Doug fir paneling, and mixed with the square tile, it feels both nostalgic and modern. Well done, Reath team (and great job Laure for the gorgeous photography). 

best of design

Table Lamp

A splurge for sure, this lamp represents to me artists who collaborate to make something gorgeous for the sake of the art. Jessica Helgerson designed this, and I’d imagine she knows that a $4k lamp won’t make it into most homes, but she did it anyway, and it’s GORGOUS. So, in the name of making art for the love of good design and the fulfilling process of creation, I want to applaud her lighting line. She collaborated with an impressive glass blower, and what they created is stunning (and elusively expensive, and therefore I want one:)) (I love the version with the oak base and blue glass shade). 

Accent Chair

Now, to contrast Jessica’s lamp with Studio McGee for Target’s super affordable and strangely high-end-looking chair. The shape of the arms mimics a lot of French and Swedish designs (which are hard to do in an affordable way). Maybe I should shout out the manufacturer for executing it so well. Now, I haven’t bought or sat on this personally, but as far as value for aesthetics, this chair is so beautiful and simple. 

Wallpaper

I’ve loved grasscloth most of my design/adult life (It’s kinda specific, so it doesn’t work everywhere), but I’m obsessed with this printed version by Sarah Sherman Samuel for Lulu and Georgia. The sweet little tulip, with a simple repeat, could work in most traditional homes (sure, it leans cottage and granny, but when paired back, it’s just a nice traditional motif). I love that Sarah bridges sweet with edgy in all of her designs. Kudos, Sarah! 

Jess

This living room nearly took my breath away. All I could think was how desperately I wanted to melt into that sectional with the fire going and take in every last detail of the space (THOSE WOOD WALLS!!!). Since a lot of you know me, you know that this house has far more color than I am known for using in my own spaces. But this space excited me in a way that made me feel alive (dramatic? maybe). So many styles were mixed, so many colors, so many patterns, so many cool shapes! Not your typical chalet, which I also love. Risk after risk, and it makes me happy every time I look at it. Nicola Harding, what a home:)

Accent Chair

So I’m cheating a little. This chair came out in 2025, but this delicious fabric color, Bing Cherry, was introduced this week. OH well, I say! But let’s talk about this incredible chair. All I want in my life are comfortable, cool/interesting-looking chairs (which is why Baby Barb exists:)). So while this one doesn’t have arms, I know Sixpenny makes incredibly comfortable furniture and the back also looks very plush. However, it’s really the shapes of the legs/back that have my heart skipping a beat. I just think it’s beautiful.

left photo: design by jess bunge | styled by emily bowser | photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: jess’ bedroom reveal

Bolster Pillow

I will forever be grateful to Emily Bowser for suggesting I buy this bolster pillow for my bedroom makeover. The intent was to have it on the actual bed (like a normal person), but it just didn’t work with the overall look, so I stuck it on top of my BEAUTIFUL Katy Sketlton bench (that would have also been a 2025 favorite, but it came out before last year) temporarily. I ended up loving it there, so it stayed! The colors were too pretty, I love a chic checkered print, and it’s really soft. The only bummer is that this color is currently sold out, but you can get notified when it’s back in stock.

Reika Plinth

If you don’t think I thought long and hard about buying one of these for the corner of my bedroom, then you simply don’t know me at all;) Sarah Sherman Samuel is, of course, behind these perfect little plinths in collaboration with Lulu and Georgia. I may never tire of a circle cut-out or just shapes in general. And boy, do I know the work that goes into DIYing something like this, and it is NOT easy. Big fan.

Mallory

My absolute favorite house tour (apart from Kendyl Jenner’s amazing mountain house) was this seaside home by Commune Design. Commune actually designed my last apartment building, and I’ve always been a really huge fan of their work. This home is architecturally STUNNING, and the views are impeccable. But what I love about it is their use of color. They perfectly blend cobalt blue with the warmth of wood (THAT STAIR CASE!) and are masters at the “pop of color” without it feeling jarring. I could not love this home more.

Ottoman

A super affordable but amazing piece – this $99 Target ottoman actually made me gasp the first time I saw it, and I’ve been dying to find an excuse to buy it for months now!!

Table Lamps

These lamps have taken over Pinterest – they’re simple but have the perfect proportions, color, and I’m obsessed with the dainty ball finial on the top!!

Tiger Mountain Fabric

2025 was a HUGE year for Dedar Milano Tiger Mountain fabric. I’ve been obsessed with this fabric for years now (I even had a special pillow made of it from my favorite upholstery company Stitchroom) – it’s been seeping into the furniture world at an incredible speed, which I believe is a testament to how amazing the design of this fabric is!

Gretchen

The one 2025 house tour I cannot seem to shake from my mind is Walton Goggins’ tour of his Hudson Valley home with AD. Now, to be fair, I could’ve been a little blinded by the man’s bizarre charm to stay too focused on decor, but something about this video tour just really stood out to me among the hundreds I’d seen last year. I’m a sucker for aged wood, an old cabin feel, homes with history, and this place is full of it. The lounge spaces are to die for, the primary is SWEET (pun allll the way intended), and the speakeasy (Joan Crawford prohibition bar, watch the tour, you’ll see!) was beyond memorable. But his art collection is unmatched, my favorite being the XL piece hanging in the living room. When it comes to good design, I’m mostly a sucker for spaces that tell a story, and this tour has so many. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that the property is just so spacious, beautiful, and plopped smack-dab amongst insane scenery. But so much of the home’s great design (to me) was found in the history preserved and honored there. I mean, what character! You’ll have to watch for yourself to truly understand what I mean. Aesthetically, I could 1000% see myself living (beyond comfortably) here. I want to work in his office next to the giant cork wall, have a drink from the tucked-away bar space, and a seat in one of his dreamy patchwork leather chairs. So good!!

Quilt

Bolster Pillow

My favorite product of the year is one I (finally) bought for myself when Schoolhouse was having a crazy 60% off sale a few weeks ago. If you didn’t catch it…I’m sorry. This was a bit of a bittersweet buy (bye), with the news that Schoolhouse/Food52 filed for bankruptcy. Schoolhouse product was a staple in a number of our projects (like Kaitlin’s living room or Em’s), and it was easy to fall even more in love with their inventory (that Pendleton quilt??). All of their quilts are like eye candy to me, but when I saw the collab with Rachel Murray (a Portland artist whose work I’ve admired for a while now), I about died. After eyeballing her collection all year, I finally bit the bullet and bought myself this quilt/sham combo in the warmer tones (and I’m sure glad I did because now both are sold out). The second it arrived, I ripped it open, spread it out on my bed, and never looked back. It truly feels like a work of art in there, and the colors are really inspiring me to finish designing the space. I couldn’t help myself and also picked up her long, bolster pillow, which lives perfectly on the leather couch in my living room. Seeing little pops of her work around my home just fills me up inside. I’m bummed for Schoolhouse’s situation and hope they find a way to keep making cool stuff, but I’m grateful to have these pieces home to cherish for life!

Accent Chair-and-a-Hair

I’d love to give one more product shout-out to our Baby Barb–EHD’s collective favorite little-big sofa chair from Room Service. Aptly named after the best pig on the farm (don’t tell Alisha), the Barb chair-and-a-half in chocolate brown won my heart in 2025. It has found the perfect spot in Ken’s house, but if I had the space, it would FOR SURE live in mine too. The lines are dreamy, the size is just right, and the material? So luxe, so cozyyyy.

Marlee

My favorite house tour of 2025 was this historic home located in SE Portland, for somewhat of a selfish reason. I walk past this house weekly, and it’s quite literally impossible for me to pass it without saying, “Wow, I wonder what it looks like inside.” So I was soooo excited when this tour was released – I loved the garden elements and the way the designers honored the home’s (and neighborhood’s) history. So much WHIMSY!!!!

Table Lamp

I was at IKEA last month and saw this cool pleated lamp that was in their holiday section – but I think it deserves to live year-round. It gives off such a soft, pretty glow, and I love the red detail. It’s also so so so affordable (literally $14 right now), and every person that’s been to my house makes a note of it. I’m not sure if it will be around for long, so snag it while it’s still available:)

Arlyn

As the resident EHD color-over-everything espouser, if you saw the home reveal of food content creator and cookbook author Dan Pelosi of Grossy Pelosi on Domino early last year, it should come as no surprise that it’s my favorite home feature of the year. Trust me, I have an absolute arsenal of incredibly chic and perfect home tours and photos stashed away in my saved folders, but month after month, I couldn’t get this Hudson Valley, New York, home out of my head. It has so much heart and soul, so much color inspiration, it’s a more-is-more situation that is like design Velcro to my brain. I followed his home search and then renovation for the better part of two years, so, in some sense, I’m more connected to it than any others I saw featured in Architectural Digest, for instance. It’s an explosion of jewel tones, wallpaper prints, and collected art. Don’t miss it if you’re a fellow color lover.

As for products I’m putting on a pedestal from last year, it’s a combination of things I’ve really contemplated getting for my home and things I’ve admired from afar that I could never justify purchasing.

Sofa

Sarah Sherman Samuel keeps making hits for Lulu & Georgia, including this fantastic piece, the Trudy Modular Sofa. The price point is well above what I’d be willing to spend on a fashionable sofa at this point in my life with a young child, but I sure can dream, can’t I?

Quilt

Here’s another “I could never actually spend this much money on a quilt, but I love it so much” pick. If you happen to have the budget for a nearly $600 quilt after tax, please, I beg of you, buy this beautiful quilt from Toast and think of me every time you tuck yourself into your gorgeous, luxe bed.

Step Stool | Curtains

Pierce & Ward’s line that launched this year with West Elm absolutely blew me away. I’ve long been a fan of their work, so to have access to their design at a mainstream price point was a huge deal. Did I buy any of it? No, considering I have no room in my house for literally anything else, but I think I included their curtains in at least five stories and roundups (maybe more). The details are striking, just look at the legs on that step stool.

Wallpaper Collection

I’m SO proud of my friend, Fariha Nasir of Pennies for a Fortune, for launching her collection with Chasing Paper this year. Fariha and I are wrapping up writing her first coffee table book (due out next fall!!), and as if that wasn’t enough work combined with running her platforms—and mothering two young boys—she was absolutely determined to have a wallpaper line, and that girl DID IT. Not to mention it’s gorgeous, and I’d be glad to have her papers in my home if I had the motivation to do anything further in my current rental. But once I’m a homeowner, it’s on. 🙂

There you have it! Designs that stole our 2025 hearts. We’d love to know yours!? Any here that resonated with you? Excited for what 2026 has to bring!

Love you, mean it.

]]> https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/ehd-best-of-design-list-2025/feed 8 Our Favorite Storage And Organization Products (Designer-Approved!) https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/favorite-storage-organization-products https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/favorite-storage-organization-products#comments Wed, 07 Jan 2026 11:29:16 +0000 https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/?p=394055 Sure, it’s a little cliché to talk about really good/helpful storage and organizing products the first week back of a […]]]>

Sure, it’s a little cliché to talk about really good/helpful storage and organizing products the first week back of a new year. However, I’d say 80% of my friends and family are deep in a purge and organizing mode…myself included. The other day, my best friend said, “Jess, you’d be so proud of me. I’ve gotten rid of so much, and I’ve already gone to the store to get containers and bins for what we’re keeping.” It’s such an exhilarating feeling!! I do want to make it clear that I’m not going around to my friends’ homes, telling them to “organize or else”. However, I do have a reputation for getting fairly obsessed with getting rid of what I no longer need or want in my own home. But did I help purge and organize many of my friends’ rooms growing up? Yes. Did I read and love every word of The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up in 2014? Yes. Did I then consider a career in organizational design after that? You bet. So while I’m not an actual organizing professional, I am an enthusiast and hope that if you’ve been looking for a nudge to purge, organize what you already have, or both, that this post inspires you. Let’s start where most of us do…the closets.

The Closets

Bed Sheet Organizer (Pack of 6) | Storage Bag

If I didn’t already have a perfectly good bin for my one extra bed linen set and some towels (or had more bedrooms in my home), I would instantly purchase these bed sheet organizers. How nice to just be able to pull an organizer for a certain bed you’re changing and know you have all the matching items ready to go. No more “wait, why is this queen flat sheet with the king fitted sheet?” It’s all in one beautiful container. But for bigger and bulkier items like comforters, extra pillows, etc, this large storage bag $5 from IKEA, is perfect.

Expandable Blanket Storage Bags (Pack of 3) | Clothes Storage Bins (Pack of 2)

More options! These expandable blanket storage bags are a mix of the two products above. They can be for just sheets, but can also expand larger for your bulkier linens. The more structured bins are for clothes. It’s so important to be able to see what you have (especially if they are sweaters you haven’t worn in a year). These bins are chic, clean, and seemingly not annoying to use!

Clear Shelf Divider (Set of 8) | Purse Organizer/Bag Divider

But maybe a simple shelf divider is more your style. Mallory had loved these clear shelf dividers in her last studio apartment. Emily is also a fan. Anything to help keep those open closet shelves more organized! I also love the idea of getting to clearly see all of your bags with this divider while keeping them nice. Maybe as I continue to get rid of stuff, I’ll make space for one. I want to have easier access to all of my bags, so I don’t forget to use them for 5 years! Out of sight, out of mind, especially when it comes to clothes and accessories.

Over-the-Door Hanging Coat Rack | Non-Slip Hangers

Hooks and hangers are definitely important in a closet reorg. I’m a sucker for these slim non-slip hangers. I can hang SO much more and have it look uniform, my dream:) And that over-the-door hanging coat rack is so cute and versatile. You could use it in any space that needs some extra hooks.

Purse Hanger Organizer (Pack of 2) | Shoe Organizer Box

If you don’t have space on the back of your door or on a shelf with a divider, this purse hanger is a great option. And if you are a shoe organizer box person (also my dream to be one), I love this chic little one. Should organization products be beautiful too if that’s what you want??

organization products
design and photo by sara ligorria-tramp | styled by emily bowser | from: sara’s cozy primary bedroom reveal

Lenia Underbed Storage Drawer (Pack of 2) | Bamboo Under Bed Storage Containers (Pack of 2)

I’m not against plastic or fabric long bins under beds (I’ve owned many), but if I had storage space under my current bed, I would get a wooden one like either of these. This one from Article is so beautiful, also comes in white oak, and Sara can attest to how beautiful they are since she owns them:) If you need to keep the budget lower, these bamboo ones are awesome AND have a zippable fabric protector. The best of all the worlds.

Wrapping Paper Storage Case

I love a good gift wrapping storage option, and this solid, simple one looks great, is from IKEA (also great), and is under $15 (the best). I promise that the feeling of knowing where all of your gift wrapping supplies are and having them organized is thrilling.

Now, let me show you some great decorative bins I found:)

Pretty Bins

MÄVINN | Large Solid Canvas Storage Basket

First off, both of these are under $20 and are clearly very cute. If bins are visible in a room, it’s a great opportunity to add color and/or pattern. The solid canvas one comes in two different sizes.

Canvas Basket | GJÄTTA

If you prefer a more structured bin look but still want them to be fabric, I really love both of these. The blue velvet one also comes in dark green!

Coiled Basket | Chunky Weave Basket

Both of these are larger, affordable, and would be great for shoes in an entry, blankets in the living room, or any other thing you can dream up. Plus, the different textures on both of them are so pretty and would add a lot to a room.

Braided Water Hyacinth Basket | Large Rattan Storage Basket with Lid

Two more! But rectangles:) I love the handles and stripes of the braided water hyacinth basket, but I also realllly appreciate the lid on the rattan storage basket. You can’t go wrong.

KNAGGLIG | Open Front Wood Bin

For shelf bins, I love the look of these. The slate wood crate is so classic and could easily be painted for more personality. Dark burgundy, anyone? The fluted open front is so cute and could effortlessly look great with a lot of styles. It’s the small details that get us every time.

Wire Natural Wood Handles Milk Crate | Rectangular Wire Natural Wood Handles Basket

We couldn’t have this post not include these very good wire baskets. They come in a bunch of sizes and would be great for a bedroom, bathroom, or food org in the kitchen. It’s simply because they are VERY pretty, are special without being loud, and are versatile.

Onto the bathroom, officially:)

The Bathroom

NÅLBLECKA | VISSLAÅN

Maximizing counterspace and keeping all of our little bathroom things organized is a top priority for most of us, right?? IKEA has so many useful and pretty things, and these two products are just that. That two-tier counter shelf is simple and cute and would be a great skincare display:) It can also be great in a kitchen. Then maybe if you want something different than the standard plain, clear drawer or counter organizers, I LOVE these chic dark gray boxes as an alternative.

Bamboo Under Sink Organizer | 2 Tier Slide Out Sink Shelf Cabinet Storage Shelves

How good are these slide-out shelves?? Under-sink plumbing can take up a lot of space in the center, making it hard to maximize the more standard options (like the ones below I’ll talk about in a second). So the fact that these have a design that takes that into account is a dream. Plus, both of these are so pretty.

Two-Tier Cabinet Storage Basket | 2-Tier Multi-Purpose Bathroom Under Sink Organizer

So, depending on what plumbing setup you have under your sink, these two could also be really great options. I chose the black metal one because it was more slender and the white/clear one because it’s wider, so it can hold more. Something for everyone (I hope:))!

Bamboo Hair Tools Organizer | Wall Mount Hair Tool Organizer

If I have the space, I would grab one of these hot tools organizers! I need to come up with a system for myself because having to haphazardly stack my hot tools into my cabinet isn’t working out that well, ha. Don’t be like me if these can work in your bathroom. I think you’ll feel like you’re the most put-together person in the world! Or at least that’s how I imagine it.

Waterproof Wicker Shower Rack (Set of 2) | No-Drill Bathroom Organizers (Set of 2)

Personally, I’m not the biggest fan of the “floor to ceiling” corner shower caddies. Of course, that doesn’t make them bad, and I’m sure there are great ones I’d like, but if you need more shower storage, consider wall shelves like these. The wicker one is pretty freaking cute and totally waterproof! No drilling required.

Shall we move on to the kitchen??

The Kitchen

Reds Wood Design Stove Top Shelf Riser | Reds Wood Design Kitchen Shelf Riser

Risers are SO underrated. We can take advantage of vertical space in any space, including the kitchen. These risers, in particular, are very beautiful and on the pricer side, but they really add to the design in a very intentional way. Just a suggestion:)

Glass Storage Jars with Airtight Lids | Cylindrical Jar | Antiqued Wood Ribbed Glass Canister

What better way to free up some cabinet space than to decant some of your dry goods in a beautiful canister?? Of course, this is not something anyone needs to do! Just an idea, and here to show you options we like. I have the glass storage jars, and since I don’t cook that much (which I’m REALLY working on this year), they’ve been really fun/pretty decor. Emily has the Weck jars in her pantry, and she loves them (and they come in so many sizes)

Expandable Bamboo Kitchen Drawer Organizer | Drawer Organizer (Set of 7)

DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE the power of a kitchen drawer organizer. I have oddly large and deep kitchen drawers and once I truly created a great system, every day thereafter was better:) Both of these products are great and give you a lot of options.

In-Drawer Knife Block Organizer | Heavy-Duty Kitchenware Pan Divider

I own this in-drawer knife block organizer, and it’s awesome. Then this pan divider is simple, but it’s great that it can actually handle heavy pieces.

Glass Spice Jar Set with Labels (Set of 36) | Expandable Spice Drawer Organizer

Again, no pressure from us to decant all of our spices (I only do a handful and then display them on my countertop), but if you want to, this huge set is under $35. But whether you want to decant or not, having a spice drawer organizer is another thing I dream of and will have space for one day!

Stackable Utensil Organizer | Ziplock Bag Organizer with Wrap Dispenser

I also have these stackable utensil organizers in my silverware drawer, and they work great and still look new after a few years of use. I sadly don’t have this Ziplock bag organizer, but again, if you are the “decanting” type, it’s a nice addition to the removal of visual clutter in your drawers.

photos by sara ligorria-tramp | from: inside all our (super organized) drawers & cabinets in the mountain house kitchen

Zaina Drawer Organizer Set | Over-Door Hanging Organizer

Ever wanted Em’s mountain house plate drawer organizers? Well, this one is a spitting image! If you keep your plates and bowls in a drawer, using this set will not only make it more organized but wat more beautiful. And for my small space dwellers, that’s a pretty cute and large over-the-door organizer. Jussst saying:)

Cabinet Organizer Shelf (Set of 4) | Two Tier Countertop Rack

One thing my best friend wanted was an affordable riser/shelf…enter those white and wood ones. Simple, pretty, and they will double the storage for under $35. Or maybe you just need a super useful two tier countertop rack to save on some space. Yamazaki just makes the prettiest, simplest, and modern organization products.

Countertop Organizer Appliance Stand With Drawer And Pull-Out Shelf | BLOMNING

Here are some cuuute closed storage options. My fellow small spacers will understand the helpfulness of a drawer under a microwave! And while I like the pink a lot, I’m in love with the maroon metal canister (perfect for tea:)).

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: inside all our (super organized) drawers & cabinets in the mountain house kitchen

KORALLVIPPA (Set of 6)

These are food containers that are less for display and more for inside the pantry/cabinet:) This price is perfect at $15, and the design is really good!

Tall Plastic Stackable Pantry Bin (Set of 4) | Short Plastic Stackable Pantry Bin (Set of 2)

Bins, bins, bins! You have to see what sizes are best for your home, but these are great!

Refrigerator Organizer Drink Bin | Freezer Bin

The same goes for the fridge-specific ones. Measure, see, use, and get that accomplishment feeling that you feel your life is under control!

Kaloh Storage Cart

And sometimes a kitchen just needs a cart, you know? There are a lot of great ones out there, but I really liked the look and size of this one🙂

The Garage

Garage Tool Organizer Wall Mount | DIY Garage Wall Shelves (Set of 4)

When organizing your garage, absolutely USE THE WALLS. It frees up space on the floor, and as you can see from these cool organization products, it really makes of difference, and they can hold A LOT.

Stack-up Container | DAMMÄNG

Now, I might get some pushback for recommending pretty bins first. But hey! I love pretty things, and these bins look great, with good reviews. That added fluting detail adds so much.

WeatherPro Heavy-Duty Latching Utility Tote Set (Set of 4) | Christmas Storage Bin (Set of 4)

Here are the heavy-duty ones. I love the simplicity of the black ones (great for standard storage). But one hack that you’ve likely heard (and my bestie just did) is to buy color-coded bins for at least the bigger holidays, like Christmas and Halloween. That way, when you’re going through your garage or attic, there are zero questions on which bins you need to pull.

Power Tool Organizer Wall Mount | Battery Organizer Storage Box

Good tool storage is super underrated and will massively improve your life (and garage) if that’s something on your list. This one is only $40!! Then you may have heard me talk about my wall-mounted battery organizer storage box before because I LOVE IT. I know where all of my batteries are at all times, and that makes me feel a little more put together.

The Office

File Storage Box | Portable File Box with Lid Organizer

This blue file box is another piece I personally own. It holds a shocking amount of paperwork, and it’s held up great for the past couple of years. 10/10 if you don’t have space for an actual cabinet. If you want something a little more grab-and-go, this portable file box with lid organizer is perfect for that, with its top handle (and the fact that it’s slimmer).

Wooden Desk Drawer Organizer Set | HARVMATTA

Desk organization products often get ignored in the big storage convo at the beginning of the year, but they shouldn’t! Of course, having a cute pencil cup is awesome, but having these little trays in a drawer will really help keep things in place. I also love this modern desk box that can kinda hold anything. On the site, they have a couple stacked on a shelf, and it looks beautiful.

Last but not least, the shoe/entry problem.

The Entry

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: sara’s living room & dining room reveal

Fluted Hidden Shoe Storage Cabinet | Wood Shoes Storage Cabinet

You can always do a big basket by the door (great for kids), but if I can help it, I don’t want to have to see a pile of my shoes by the front door. These two cabinets are really great versions of the IKEA one that Sara used in her living room above. They have texture and color, and of course, versatile.

That’s it for this big ole organization products post! Hope it sparked any needed motivation, and just remember to purge before you start organizing. It’s the main way to truly feel like your home is refreshed and fully put together.

Love you, mean it.

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Kaitlin Green | From: Farmhouse Pantry Reveal

]]> https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/favorite-storage-organization-products/feed 16 6 Kitchen Trends That We Are VERY Confident Will Be Big In 2026 https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/6-kitchen-trends-2026-we-are-confident-about https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/6-kitchen-trends-2026-we-are-confident-about#comments Mon, 05 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000 https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/?p=393824 We thought that it was only right to have our first official post of the year be one of the […]]]>

We thought that it was only right to have our first official post of the year be one of the most beloved…our annual kitchen trends post. I’m getting chills as I type these words! It’s a new year, a renewed sense that things can be better and hopefully more beautiful. And for some of you lucky readers, a bit of that beauty may be coming from a kitchen remodel or even a light refresh. That’s where this post can actually be helpful. Though, if you are simply looking for general design news, that’s just as valid:) Everyone is welcome. I also feel inclined to say that while this is labeled as a “trend post,” we focus on design ideas that we love and don’t think will be “out” in a few years. Plus, regardless of how “2026” something may be, if it’s done well, it will look awesome forever. So without further ado, welcome to EHD’s 2026 Kitchen Trends Picks…

Stainless Steel Kitchens (And Accents)

design by la.m studio | photo by alexis armane

We have talked about this one in the past, but now more than ever, I am CONVINCED we will see stainless steel kitchens everywhere this year and beyond. And as you can see above and below, these kitchens are not cold, sterile designs. They are chic, fresh, and mixed with beautiful materials. I mean, burlwood walls, matte stainless steel cabinets, and marble tiled checkered floors??! Not to mention that incredible chandelier, which may be a new goal for my kitchen. LA.M Studio created such a stunning space.

kitchen trends
design by keep studio | photo by alexander william

This unreal kitchen by Keep Studio completely flips the “hide your appliances” on its head and takes it a step further. All of the appliances are stainless steel, which then match all of the stainless steel drawers. The mix of cool-toned wood and steel feels both unique and effortless. It’s impossible for this design not to crack open your brain and think of the possibilities of incorporating stainless steel in really unexpected ways.

design by keep studio | photo by alexander william

Here’s another angle and a closer look at that incredible window. Wow, wow, wow. I also adore the curve of the corner cabinet and how it talks to the curve of the wall and high shelf.

design by sophie rowell | photo by chris snook

Now, the great Sophie Rowell whose designs are cozy, unexpected, a little traditional yet playful, designed this wonderful kitchen above. She didn’t lean hard into the stainless steel vibe but did add that awesome modern backsplash. It adds a juicy amount of contrast to the overall style of the space, but also balances with the appliances. Maybe an additional “kitchen trend” is that stainless steel appliances are back!

This kitchen, which belonged to stylist Colin King, is now The Loft, Beni Rugs’ new space. The stainless steel really just comes in with the sink and appliances, but it shows how truly elevated and cozy it can look in a kitchen with the right materials designed with it. All that wood paneling is a beautiful contrast.

Tiled Cabana Stripes

design by leah bradley | photo by laurel herzog | tile by concrete collaborative 

This one may feel a little risky for some, but in the right home with the right design, it’s everything! Case in point, Leah Bradley’s California coastal home. Without the stripe pattern, this is a beautiful, very neutral kitchen. But WITH the tile, a bold yet soft injection of energy is instantly felt.

design by leah bradley | photo by laurel herzog | tile by concrete collaborative 

Color and tone are major factors in this design working. The soft colors not only flow with the tones of the rest of the kitchen but also with the vibe of the area. Coastal, beachy, and fun. This was a risk that couldn’t have paid off more.

design by white studio & co interior design | photo by claire mcferran

I LOVE this kitchen. I also know I’m stretching it a little with the definition of cabana stripes, but it’s what I immediately thought when I saw this photo. I also love that you still get the impact of the look without needing to go for longer stripes.

design by white studio & co interior design | photo by claire mcferran

So, as opposed to the lighter colors with long stripes of the first kitchen, here, White Studio & Co Interior Design used darker colors with a “short stripe” (or so that’s how it feels to me:)). Oh, and did you notice the stainless steel sink and chrome stools??

design by abbie naber | photo by charlotte lea

Another one for the short stripes! I love this small but massively impactful design choice Abbie Naber made in this kitchen. It just takes it to the next level visually. It’s also a great reminder that tile accents can be taken into dining spaces, especially in an open concept.

design by abbie naber | photo by charlotte lea

Here’s a closer look at the detailing on the island. It’s not a classic, two solid colored tile combo. See that little diagonal? Just so special.

renders by daisy ausheva

Now, look at this kitchen render! That short backsplash is another great way to have that pop of pattern, even if you don’t want to go all the way up the wall. It’s so cool and fresh, and with that blue cabinet and shelf, I couldn’t love it more. Also, while this isn’t a completed, photographed space, I do think renders are a VERY good indicator of trends. It’s what designers are imagining in their ideal scenario:)

design by vaughan design & development | photo by chris snook

I had to include this one because it was a different take and looks beautiful. Vaughan Design & Development designed a perfect kitchen and then made it even better with that horizontal stripe on the backsplash. What makes it great (and all of these stripes in this section) is that they are made with larger tiles and not those mini ones (you know which ones I mean). These are intentional and special, and I’m excited to see more of them this year!

Tonal Wood Hardware

design by workstead | photo by matthew williams

Tonal wood hardware is making itself known, even if it matches perfectly with the wood cabinets:) Workstead can do no wrong in my book, and this kitchen is yet another example. There are a million details I love, but a big one is those round wood knobs. So simple but (say it with me), so special.

design by workstead | photo by matthew williams

See?! It doesn’t hurt that the wood is insanely gorgeous.

design by shapeless studio | photos by hagan hinshaw

I believe there has yet to be a January kitchen trends post (at least that I have done) that hasn’t included Shapeless Studio. Their work is, well, always inspiring, and these wooden custom-designed handles are just that. White oak, like the cabinets, and strong enough to be appliance pulls too!

photo by drew michael scott

Want to know a really fun fact? Those wood cabinets you’re looking at are actually covered with contact paper! Drew is an unbelievably designer/DIYer, so no shock that it turned out beautiful. But what I also loved was that he used real wood DIY handles to really sell the whole “real” wood look.

photo by drew michael scott

So this kitchen went from a bit cold and without a ton of personality to a beautiful, warm, renter-friendly dream. The wood on wood look really takes the space to a very elevated level:)

I also think this is a trend that’s extremely possible to easily incorporate into your existing wood cabinet kitchen. No reno necessary! Just find the right wood match hardware, and you are set.

Flat Panel Cabinet Fronts

design by katy popple design | photo by erin kelly

Shaker and micro Shaker cabinet fronts have been king for years now, but I think that flat panels are about to officially take over. That’s not to say we still don’t LOVE shakers and think they are beautiful (because they are). But baby, things are shifting. Let’s take this unreal kitchen by Katy Popple Design. Flat panel fronts with a mix of really awesome hardware. It’s clean, lets the materials and colors shine, and feels modern in the best way. Actually, if you look at all of the kitchens in this post, almost all of them have flat panel cabinet fronts. Jussssst saying.

design by rebecca zajac | photo by sara ligorria-tramp

Here is another dream kitchen by Rebecca Zajac that’s more modern organic, and those flat fronts are perfect. It’s so clean to the eye and lets the materials really sing. I mean that stone is unreal!

In case you wanted more proof of how beautiful they are…

…and another. But this example shows a more modern traditional look (love the two tones!). It’s also proof that Shaker isn’t the only “traditional” option.

design by monika michalowska | photo by martyna rudnicka

For my final example in this category, this one offers a slight twist. From what I’ve seen, most flat fronts are flush to the framing. The wood ones in this space are slightly set back, which I also love. A teeny detail that makes them a little different from the stainless steel ones. Intentional and interesting. No notes, this kitchen by Monika Michalowska is perfect.

Creamy Tiles

design by nina farmer interiors | styled by mieke ten have | photo by david mitchell

Another designer that I always look to for trends, Nina Farmer. Her style is so classic, but is always special and layered. So much soul in every space. But with this space, we are focusing our attention on those creamy wall tiles. We love an all-bright-white in the right space, but the softness of a cream or warm beige is like a hug for the eyes. This kitchen feels just like that – warm, beautiful, and just the right amount of color.

design by mandy cheng design | photo by madeline tolle

Now, the great Mandy Cheng used very similar, if not the same, Zellige tiles as Nina, and it’s just as warm but in a completely different way. The power of design!! Along with the live-edge wood shelves, the tiles soften the white cabinets, stainless steel accents (another example!), and the black stone island.

design by mandy cheng design | photo by madeline tolle

It’s that seemingly small choice of choosing white versus cream/beige that can make the biggest impact.

design by ome dezin | photos by ethan jones

While Zellige is still one of the major players in home tile, this cream-toned brick that Ome Dezin chose for this kitchen is so awesome. Almost a warm brutalism style that’s warmed up even more by that unreal dark cabinetry and modern island. Their work is always so exciting and beautiful.

Green Countertops

photo by kailtin green | from: river house kitchen reveal

It can feel a little strange using our own work in a trend post, but hey, green stone countertops are absolutely going to be a major player in 2026. I mean, it’s already happening! Choosing a colorful stone can feel like a huge risk because stone and fabrication aren’t cheap (or returnable). But green is a color that’s also more or less a neutral depending on the tone chosen. It goes with so much and is visually calming. Would this kitchen have been pretty with a white stone? Yes. Is it far more interesting and beautiful with the green? I think, YES.

render by finch studio

Here is a render by Finch studio that I really love. It’s very modern, and at first glance, the blue tiled island is what you notice. But then your eyes move to the green countertop, and it’s a wow. So interesting but quiet, and that light green with the mid-toned warm wood is perfection.

But you can also go much darker, as a slight alternative to black, like Electric Bowery beautifully did.

Or go for a tonal style like the great Heidi Caillier chose to do. I just love the green on green look.

There was a debate on whether Rosso Levanto marble(red marble) was on trend, and I couldn’t find it in enough kitchens. I absolutely think yes for smaller areas like bathrooms and pieces of furniture like accent tables, but for kitchens, I’m not totally convinced yet. I feel sure about green, but will happily be wrong for red:) I guess only time will tell. Oh, and we’re definitely keeping our eyes on butler pantries, too. We’ll check back in for our midyear kitchen trends report.

Thank you for reading, and hope it was fun! Any thoughts??

Love you, mean it.

Opening Image Credits: Design by Keep Studio | Photo by Alexander William

]]> https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/6-kitchen-trends-2026-we-are-confident-about/feed 29 The 25 Top Most Purchased Items in 2025! You All Have Very Good Taste:) https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/25-top-most-purchased-items-in-2025 https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/25-top-most-purchased-items-in-2025#comments Sat, 27 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000 https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/?p=393139 Hello friends! It really feels wild that we are here, at the end of another very full year, once again. […]]]>

Hello friends! It really feels wild that we are here, at the end of another very full year, once again. So we know we always say how unbelievably grateful we are for all of you and how your support truly means the world to us, but it’s just a fact. A part of that support is the products you buy through the site. It truly helps us keep things going, so THANK YOU. Plus, it’s so fun and exciting to see what y’all are really into, and we love it even more when you tell us! So please let us know in the comments if there was anything you really loved that you found through us. Ok, let’s get this list started!

25. Faux Siberian Elm Branch

most purchased
photo by kaitlin green | from: river house dining room reveal

I’m honestly not surprised by this one! When Emily first said she was going to do a faux flowers and branches post, I KNEW it was going to be awesome and appreciated. Who wouldn’t want an Emily Henderson-approved faux floral option?! But this branch, however, was a clear winner, and I might need to grab them for myself:)

24. Poetto Pull-Down Faucet

While a little lower on the list from last year, this beautiful Rejuventaion pull-down faucet is back because it’s so wonderful! Here’s what Caitlin said about it last year: “Chefs and home cooks, rejoice – this stunning Rejuvenation faucet is here to make quick work of any kitchen messes! It’s crafted from solid brass (which is naturally antibacterial!), designed, assembled, and finished right here in America, and it’s offered in everything from polished chrome and brushed nickel to satin brass and stainless steel. She’s a splurge, but she’s worth it.”

23. Sunday Hoodie

This one is all thanks to our dear Marlee who got the inside “teen” scoop from her 16-year-old sister. AKA this sweatshirt is what the teens actually want which understandly was very apprieciated by all of you. But the even better part is that it’s a really good, plain sweatshirt that anyone of any age can wear. Oh, Marlee also said it’s the softest sweatshirt ever so um, SOLD!

22. Arizona Big Buckle Slide Sandal

photo by kaitlin green | from: really great (and mostly affordable) spring basics

Looking at last year’s post, I’m actually shocked these cute and very classic sandals weren’t on there. These are such a staple for Em and most of the team. Now it looks like a lot of us are collectively twinning which I kinda love. They come in a bunch of a different colors so if brown isn’t your vibe. You’ll have them forever.

21. Ceiling Light

I have a sneaky feeling I’m responsible for this one🙂 I orginally put in our “Not Ugly AFFORDABLE Ceiling Lights To Replace Your Boob Lights” post and then I feel certain it was included in others later in the year. It’s just a great modern flushmount that’s affordable and an incredible upgrade from the “landlord boob light”.

20. Curtain Rod

Well, I solidly feel out of my mind because I know I JUST linked this rod as a similar option to something that was out of stock but can’t seem to find out where. OOPS! Well regardless it’s a great looking rod, for a really reasonable price, which is likely why it was such a hit! Outside of ordering a curtain panel (of which the quality was great), we don’t have a ton of experince with Quince’s home products but VERY curious. Maybe more of that in 2026? Are you all curious too?

19. SKIMS Bra

This bralette was apparently a Caitlin AND Marlee rec which is a very good sign since their bra sizes are run the range! The coverage looks good but not too intense, they come in a bunch of colors, and the sizing goes up to 4x!

18. Way-High Sailor Jean

EEE! I’m so happy these jeans made the list!! They are one of my go-tos because they are comfortable, highwaisted, and the perfect amount of “wide-leg”. They also aren’t crazy expensive and Everlane has sales often:) HIGHLY recommend!

17. Nutrafol

photo by kaitlin green | from: brian’s gift guide “for him” (so many really good ideas)

I have truly heard from so many people rave about how well Nutrafol works! I’ve been meaning to get it for myself too. Em has LOVED it (the women’s version) and my friend’s friend, who owns a fitness studio and does a lot of shoots with her hair VERY slicked back most of the time, swears by it. It’s truly brought back her hair!

16. Outdoor Sofa

We, of course, love to see furiture on this list and this outdoor sofa is such a pretty one! The cuved wood around the back makes it a little extra special which I’m sure is what made people so drawn to it. Oh, and it’s also under $600 which for an outdoor sofa is a pretty great deal. Anyone having a BBQ this summer for us all to test it out??

15. Room Darkening Curtain Rod

Another great curtain rod! This one is really similar to the one in my bedroom and I LOVE IT. The texture of the iron feels warm and classic and the French return looks so elegant and helps with “light leak”. I’m sure whoever bought this loves it.

14. RJ Rug

photo by kaitlin green | from: robyn’s dining room reveal

I was so happy to see this beautiful rug on the list. Those colors, the pattern, and the short delicate fringe is all perfect. And how could we all not want it after seeing it in Robyn’s dining room?! It’s a rug that can work with so many styles ad homes. 100/10.

13. Green Armchair

As soon as I saw this chair I instantly thought, “Oh that looks comfortable! And wow that price is good.” I guess many of you had a similar reaction:) The reviews are great, it’s roomy, what’s not to love? I’d love to know whoever bought it, how they are liking!

12. Softest Modal PJs

photo by kaitlin green | from: farmhouse living room update: the sofas i designed for the space are here (and so many changes)

These truly are Em’s favorite pajamas and when Em feels passionate about something it’s hard to resist her enthusiasm! I have bought many a product Em has recommed so I get it. But here’s the thing, it’s always great, so it’s a win-win. I’m so happy so many of you will be cozy in these pjs because what’s better?

11. Oblong Rug

photo by kaitlin green | from: river house game room reveal

Another GREAT rug. I loved loved loved this rug when I saw these shots. It was such an unexpected, wonderful, surprise. The shape is just different enough without being too specific:) How cool that so many of you have it in your homes too!

10. Pottery Barn Low Bookshelves

photo by kaitlin green | from: farmhouse family room reveal

So these bookshelves actually moved UP a spot from last year! They are awesome so this feels right:) Here’s what was said last year: “‘Since the sofa is slammed up against the far wall and there was hardly any room for a side table on this side of it, we needed a sofa table,’ Em explains. ‘Enter this bookcase from Pottery Barn that fits PERFECTLY along the back of the sofa and is where my wine or tea sits when I’m watching TV (as well as those gorgeous lamps). It looks fully integrated and almost like it was professionally designed!’ (Confession: I’m eyeing the same bookcases to pair with my new sectional!)”

9. Floor Lamp

photo by kaitlin green | from: river house family room reveal

What’s not to love about this lamp!? The shape + texture is amazing. Oh, did I mention the price?? Ya, that’s good too which I’m sure made it much easier to hit “add to cart”. It gives off such a pretty soft glow so there’s nothing bad about it:)

8. Comfy Chair

Another great chair that I’m not suprised to see on this list. First off it’s a chair and a half, the reviews a good, the fabric is deemed pet-friendly so it’s a great pick. I also think the slope of the arms is the perfect modern traditional shape, which I know is a reader favorite!

7. Oversized Arm Chair

And one more! This one is defineitly more modern and the lines are also really good. It comes in lots of colors and the price is under $250! A great affordble option that I’m so happy so many of you loved.

6. Elsie Green Dining Table

photo by kaitlin green | from: setting the table for fall (or thanksgiving) and where to find the best pieces

If you can believe this gorgeous table jumped from #25 last year to #6 this year! WOW! It’s the kind of table that’s an heirloom piece and I can’t even describe how ecstatic I am so many of you are supporting this kind of craftsmanship! Here’s what was said about it last year: “Em worked with Elsie Green, a small furniture maker in the Bay Area, to create a custom version of this reclaimed wood dining table. ‘The design of it is perfect – classic and timeless, but casual. That turned leg is so pretty, with a scale that is delicate yet big enough,’ Em said. ‘We ordered it without the middle leg so we had flexibility with chairs, and changed the dimensions to 11′ long, 40″ deep, and 30″ tall.'”

5. Leesa Mattress

photos by kaitlin green

If I didn’t already have a good mattress you bet I’d be getting this one! Em truly loves this one so much that after she put it in Birdie’s bedroom, she got one for herself. Her sister now has one, friends of hers, MY friends, and now A LOT of you! I hope you are all in a total comfort slumber dream when you lay your head on your pillow at night:)

4. TA3 Swimsuit

photo by kaitlin green | from: best supportive swimsuits for all budgets on my real body

Every year a TA3 swinsuit is on this list and for good freaking reason! Em and Caitlin might be their #1 fans and understandbly you trust their recs (as you should;). These suits are high-quality, beautiful (and sexy), and really cinch you in if that’s the look you want. Plus this color and style are so fun!

3. Oscar Sofa

photo by kaitlin green | from: announcing our first furniture collection: room service by emily henderson

I mean just THANK YOU!!!!! The hours and love that went into designing, perfecting, shooting, and everything else was a lot. So the fact that so many of your ordered our ROOM SERVICE pieces, and especially The Oscar could not mean more to us. This sofa is truly SO comfortable and we are really proud of how it came out. Thank you for letting a little of us into your home<33

2. Quince Bella Jeans

photo by kaitlin green | from: i tried on all your favorite trendy jeans. here are my thoughts…

$50 great jeans in 2025??? What a dream! So while Em was on a vacation, the team made the executive decision to order Em a bunch of y’alls favorite/viral jeans, haha. Look, we knew she’d be down, we knew her sizing, so all she had to do was put them on and get her photo taken:) Luckily, she was excitied to do it and these jeans were a total stand out. Here’s what she said baout them: “I’ve been skeptical about Quince, very curious how they are disrupting the market by likely duping other brands (who are likely duping the OG designers/makers, so… ) but the price point is crazy low and the quality seems to be very high. The verdict: I really loved how soft these were with the perfect amount of stretch, but not too stretchy that it felt like they’d lose their shape in hours. And for $50, I was like, wait, what? FIFTY DOLLARS?? They felt extremely high quality to me for that price.”

1. Starke Rug

photos by kaitlin green | from: river house dining room reveal

And our #1!! Our beloved Starke Rug from our Rugs USA collab. Unfortuntaly we are no longer collaborating, you can read more abut that here but we still have a great relationship with them and the rugs are still available! This was absoltely a favorite so man are we happy and proud that so many of you have this rug in your home.

Ok, here we are at the end. Not to keep saying it but from the bottom of our hearts, THANK YOU!!! Your support whether it’s reading the posts, buying through our links, following on social, all of it means the world in a world where there are SO many options. Can’t wait for another wonderful year with all of you.

Love you, mean it.

Opening Image Credits: Photo by Kaitlin Green | From: Robyn’s Dining Room Reveal

]]> https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/25-top-most-purchased-items-in-2025/feed 10 What 2025 Design Trends Did We Get Right (& Which Ones We Didn’t…) https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/what-2025-design-trends-did-we-get-right https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/what-2025-design-trends-did-we-get-right#comments Mon, 22 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000 https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/?p=393671 Predicting design trends is something that is extremely fun, so we really love doing it. But just because it’s fun […]]]>

Predicting design trends is something that is extremely fun, so we really love doing it. But just because it’s fun doesn’t mean we don’t take it seriously. There’s not a secret magic ball; instead, simply a total love/obsession with design, constantly looking and examining A LOT of spaces on every platform. Does every single trend we talk about “go viral”? No. But I’d say we are in the green overall:) So today I thought it would be interesting to a bunch of trends we talked about and see what we were right about and what didn’t take off in the way we thought it would. I’d say overall we are in the green, but let’s go through most of the ones we predicted, and we can all see where we landed for 2025! P.S. get ready for A LOT of eye candy:)

Kitchen Trends

Dark Beige

Dark beige was a color I predicted for this year, and I have to say I’m still seeing it a lot (as shown above!). I’m both happy because who doesn’t love to be right? Ha. But also not surprised because it’s a moody neutral color that adds a lot of visual depth and warmth.

Colorful Stained Wood

YES, YES, YES! This might be one of the strongest trends that felt “new” this past year. I saw them mostly in higher-end renovations, but far more than in past years. It’s only a matter of time till all of us will have easier access. It’s funny because before this year, I wouldn’t have thought I’d love this style as much as I do, but so many designers are using colorful stained wood in such beautiful and elevated ways that I am so on board. Goes to show there’s a great version of practically anything you can imagine.

Colorful Window Trim

I’d say this is a kinda. The design world is still very much in the cozy elevated cottage vibes, and what’s more charming, regardless of style, than a colorful window trim? But also, I wouldn’t say that my feeds were as filled with colorful window trims in kitchens as I thought they’d be. However, I don’t think this trend was exclusive to kitchens, and designers have also been adding this element to lots of different kinds of spaces.

Bold Cabinet Interior Colors

This is another “sort of”. There are plenty of designers who add this element to an interior cabinet, and it’s such a wonderful surprise! Very much a sign that whoever designed the home really loves/cares about the details. So it was around, but not in a huge way. I’d happily see more in 2026.

Red Marble

Definitely on trend this past year, but I oddly had a difficult time finding photos to prove it in kitchens (hence the bathroom, which is more of where I think it was on trend). This stone was also used a fair amount in pieces like accent tables. Remember Mal’s coffee table? I think we will see more of it in 2026, but there’s actually another color that’s hitting much harder that we’ll talk about in January:)

Dark Wood Cabinetry & Paneling

This is a soft yes. There were way more dark wood kitchens than I have felt in past years, but I think dark painted kitchens (like a deep burgundy) may have surpassed wood. Dark wood islands, however, were definitely very popular this year! A dark walnut is just so elegant and classic that you really can’t go wrong with it.

Double Bullnose Counter Edges

When I first saw that we called this trend this year, I was unsure if it was a big contender, but I stand corrected! I think I may have found even more photos than I have above. So this is officially a big, YES. I don’t know the fabrication cost, but if you can swing it, it’s a stunning detail that’s cool and interesting but not too “trendy”. I even love that the wood island, in the last photo, looks like it has the double bullnose counter edge.

Sculleries

I believe it was Arlyn who called the scullery trend, and she was right. It’s one of those additions that requires some space. Although the second photo is on the smaller side, which is nice, because it’s not like you need a huge home to create this kind of area. I feel like this is also an example of people leaning away from open concept floor plans. Can’t wait to see how this shakes out next year!

Rounded Cabinets

While I LOVE rounded cabinets, I don’t think it was in its trend prime this past year. I think we say far more rounded-edged islands instead. I’m sure the price tag for those types of custom cabinets is also quite high, which may have been a factor. I’m still keeping my eye out.

Bathroom Trends

Moody Boutique Hotel

Yes! The internet is chock full of amazing, moody bathrooms that are beyond boutique hotel quality. The rich tones, the mix of textured materials, what’s not to love? I very much hope that we see many more next year.

Raw Edge Vanity And White Plumbing Fixtures

These two trends sadly didn’t take off despite both being so cool. They are fairly specific, at least for now, and I’m sure a raw-edge vanity can’t be cheap. As for white plumbing, I really couldn’t find a recent example, and that’s likely because people are still very attached to classic metals (aside from black). So, unless you want a very modern bathroom, white likely still needs time to break through to the mainstream.

Decor Trends

Color Drenching

Well, this is DUH. Color drenching was everywhere this year, and we loved it. It’s so exciting to look at such colorful rooms, and with the right colors can be soothing or really energy-inducing. I hope this lives on for many years so we can all stare at the amazing combos and tones these extremely talented designers choose.

Browns

Pantone got it kinda right for 2025 with their choice of brown, Mocha Mousse. However, warm, rich, and delicious browns were more of the stars. So the color brown was absolutely on trend for 2025, and we don’t see it slowing down. I mean, when done well, it’s a total classic!

Burgundys

Do I even need to say it? Yes, burgundy could have easily been the color of the year. You couldn’t open your feed or look at a magazine with this incredible color staring at you in the face. Was anyone made about it? They better not have been. I also don’t think this beautiful color is going anywhere anytime soon.

Light Blue

Another HUGE hit in 2025 that I unexpectedly loved! It’s such a joyful color that really pops. Even for me, I had categorized it as a “little kid” color, but the way designers used it this past year, I am so in. It’s chic, elevated, yet playful. I even almost chose light blue curtains for my bedroom!

Curtains As “Doors”

Eh, yes and no with this one. Not a huge trend for this past year, but when done, they are done so beautifully. I think we can take it as a good reminder that it’s an awesome option when you can’t have or don’t want an actual door:)

Glass Chandelieres/Sconces

Yes! Sure, these are all STUNNING and grand examples, but even in less extravagant homes, cool and beautiful light fixtures were being added in. I’m actually working on a project now where we are trying to find some glass sconces that work:)

Lacquer & High Gloss Finishes

I think mostly “ish,” but it’s still on the rise. I mean, Heidi Caillier laucuered two ceilings, and they look awesome (only one shown above). So I think let’s keep an eye out for this one for 2026 too.

Oversized Lighting and Wallpaper Borders

Here were two misses, I think. Both oversized lighting and wallpaper borders are happening, but really not any more than they were before. I couldn’t love an oversized lamp more, so I will always be rooting for that trend:)

Other

Checkerboard Tile

I know some people feel that checked anything is on its way out, but I love it, and so did A LOT of designers this year, especially with tile. When done in a way that feels true to the space, I think it’s a classic! So yes, this was definitely a trend this year, and I personally wouldn’t mind if it continued.

Regency Minimalism

This last trend was one that I called out this past June, and I think it’s a 50/50. Designers like Marco Zamora are very much on board, but it’s not ALL over the internet yet. Hey, maybe next year. It’s beautiful and cool, and I would love to see more.

Well, there you have it! Hope it was a fun read, and let me know if you have any thoughts and feelings. As I said at the top, we love digging into design trends because it’s so interesting how they form and take off (or don’t). Have a wonderful week and holiday!!

Love you, mean it.

Opening Image Credits: Design by Mallory Wackerman | Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: MOTO REVEAL: How Mallory Made Her Boring Living Room Feel Homey In Just One Month

]]> https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/what-2025-design-trends-did-we-get-right/feed 5 Easy Home Upgrades To Start Your Year Off Right https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/easy-home-upgrades-2025 https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/easy-home-upgrades-2025#comments Tue, 16 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000 https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/?p=392871 Whenever I leave for a trip, I really try to clean my house really well. I’m talking sheets laundered, bed […]]]>

Whenever I leave for a trip, I really try to clean my house really well. I’m talking sheets laundered, bed made, every room vacuumed, surfaces wiped down, you get it. I tell myself that “Future Jess” is going to be so happy. And surprise, Future Jess is ALWAYS extremely grateful that Past Jess made her life so easy and nice when she gets home. The same principle could apply to you right now. There could be a couple of things you’ve been wanting to add or upgrade, but they’ve been pushed down the list. Think now of crossing those things off, while saving money, and all before the start of the new year! Future You would likely be unbelievably happy and grateful. So today, we’re looking at Wayfair’s pretty wonderful End of Year Clearance Sale to round up some of these simple but very impactful easy home upgrades. I mean, up to 60% off and fast shipping, while checking off “want to do” boxes is a Christmas present in and of itself. Let’s get into it.

There are not many of us who couldn’t benefit from some more storage… especially really beautiful storage. I LOVE both of these cabinets, and if I had the space, would happily have one in my home. Plus, both of these cabinets offer open and closed storage. That means you can show off your pretty things and hide away the items that are best kept out of sight until they are needed. I know arches have been all the rage, but both of these feel so classic that they will seamlessly work stylistically for many years to come. Oh, and did I mention that they are HEAVILY on sale and each comes in three different wood tones? So yes, this is such a smart (and pretty) purchase to make your 2026 start on the right foot.

easy home upgrades
design by mallory wackerman | styled by emily bowser | photo by veronica crawford | from: a full look inside mal’s 500 sqft resort-like hollywood oasis

Remember when Mallory had the genius idea to use storage benches as her banquette seating in her studio apartment? Well, it looked so good, but they definitely weren’t inexpensive. Luckily for all of us, Wayfair has a nearly identical option for a fraction of the price! It also comes in black and white oak and is under $300. See? I told you it was good! Again, the more storage the better, and these would make great dining benches, a perfect entry bench, and awesome in a bedroom. So many uses and options.

Do you have a room that needs both an architectural feature and some soundproofing? These wall panels are for you. Practically every home I’ve lived in before this one hasn’t had great insulation, meaning sound travels. These are a very cool and chic way to help that problem! Maybe if you’re getting your kids an instrument for the holidays, consider getting these as a present for you to help dampen their practising:) Everyone wins!

If you’ve looked into good Roman shades, then you know they can cost A LOT. Enter these thermal, blackout, cordless shades that are 68% off. So basically, you are getting really awesome shades that come in a bunch of colors and size options for such an incredible deal. The reviews are also really great, so I highly suggest you check these out. And I can tell you from experience, your room will feel different in the best way when you add window treatments.

A new rug makes a room feel brand new, guaranteed and we really love this one! A little color so it’s not too neutral but not too bright to distract. The perfect modern traditional rug, if you ask me.

design by jess bunge | photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: jess’ long and skinny balcony reveal!!

I know we are practically in winter, so prepping your outdoor space for the spring sooner rather than later (especially if you have some time off around the new year) isn’t a bad idea. These wood tiles are such a great way to personalize and make your outdoor space look more polished. I used something similar on my balcony and still love it. The wood is so pretty that there’s no need to paint them, like I did with mine, but it’s also an option if you want.

photos by sara ligorria-tramp | from: about those integrated appliances in the mountain house kitchen

Move over, garage fridge, and hello, refrigerator drawers! A true dream of mine, if I ever own a home. These are great because they can be freestanding or easily integrated into your cabinets if you are renovating. Emily has them in her mountain house and her farmhouse, if that tells you anything:) Oh, and they are 68% off…

design by mallory wackerman | photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: see how mallory turned her coat closet into a speakeasy

Speaking of fridges, maybe this is the year you finally get that freestanding beverage fridge. If you are like me and are renting, this may be the more practical option to the drawers I was just talking about. But of course, you can be a homeowner and get one too:) As an avid beverage consumer, this would undoubtedly level up my 2026. Did I mention it’s under $200??

And finally, if you don’t really “need” anything but are looking for a small but impactful upgrade (especially for those cold winter nights), warm light light bulbs are a game-changer. These ones are a bit more decorative and have a vintage feel, but that only makes them better in my book. A quick, affordable fix. Isn’t that the best kind??

So while I don’t want anyone to feel pressure to upgrade their homes, sometimes making small changes (particularly when the deals are so good) is just a nice thing to do for yourself. With that said, we highly recommend checking out Wayfair’s End of Year Clearance Sale that’s happening until January 1st. Great pieces for awesome prices that will get to you fast.

Opening Image Credits: Design by Mallory Wackerman | Styled by Emily Bowser | Photo by Veronica Crawford | From: A Full Look Inside Mal’s 500 Sqft Resort-Like Hollywood Oasis

]]> https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/easy-home-upgrades-2025/feed 8 Let’s Solve Some Real Life Design Problems! 4 Readers Get Some EHD Help https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/real-life-design-problems-solved https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/real-life-design-problems-solved#comments Mon, 15 Dec 2025 13:01:12 +0000 https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/?p=393112 Since we’re here at the near end of 2025 (and with it being the holiday season), we thought one more […]]]>

Since we’re here at the near end of 2025 (and with it being the holiday season), we thought one more post helping a few of our beloved readers and followers (you all:)) with your real life design problems was the least we could do. We truly appreciate you all more than we could ever say, and if you could help each and every one of you, we would! Unfortunately, we don’t have the bandwidth for that, so hopefully these 4 examples will inspire you and give you the energy you’ve been looking for to get that project you’ve been putting off finally done. I think we’d all like to start 2026 in a better place if we can, right? So let’s just get right to it, shall we?

Wallpaper Combo Drama

Here’s what our first reader/follower is asking for help with:

“I want to do a fun but timeless wallpaper in my living room (and small entryway) that “go” together, but there are 1 million options, and I can’t decide. I have about 60 samples rn. I also have mostly looked for peel-and-stick options that I can do myself, and also because I like to change things up. Anyway- here are a few pics…and I obviously didn’t clean up before I took them. Oh- and my style/aesthetic is a mixed bag. Modern/ a little traditional/ cottage? Idk .”

real life design problems

First off, we can all agree that this is a beautiful home! But we have wallpaper combos to suggest. So there are a few things that struck me right off the bat.

  • This home has a very clear neutral color palette, so that’s what I’m going to lean into.
  • Since it’s so neutral, going fairly bold color-wise will likely feel way too visually overwhelming.

Next, here are the rules I was using/she can use if what I put together doesn’t speak to her:

  • Mix different pattern scales – large with medium, large with small, medium with small (that way they don’t visually compete).
  • Go bolder either with color or pattern in the entry since it’s a small and more contained space (plus it’s fun as the first impression when you walk in!)
  • Not a rule, but I like to mix an organic pattern with a more geometric pattern (as you will clearly see lol). It makes the two spaces feel dynamic and different (but also two organic patterns or two geometric ones can also be awesome. It all just depends on the actual designs).

Verte in Mink | Charles Street Stripe

I took a risk and went with this amazing mink-colored floral wallpaper for the entry. It’s rich but not so much that I think you’d get sick of it fast. I also love the hits of blue and amber in it! Also, it’s a Kelly Ventura design (which we used one of her papers in Kaitlin’s bedroom), so we can attest to the quality. The striped paper is by Jeremiah Brent (whose taste is unmatched). It was also a Domino Good Design Award winner this year! We love a neutral stripe, but this one is a little deeper in tone (which holds up to the entry wallpaper) and is textured, which adds so much warmth.

Lush Grove in Light Blue | Cream Stripes

Another risk, haha! As you are all likely very aware, blue is a neutral to us, and the variations of blue tones in this paper are so soft but lush (hence the name). Another bolder option for the entry, which I then paired with a much softer, creamy stripe for the living room. Emily used a soft stripe for her stairs at the farmhouse, and it’s the perfect amount of interest without taking over.

Pimpernel in Vintage White | French Stripes in Antique White

Now, for the actual neutrals, since that’s what it looks like she’s going for, given the samples in her entry. The first two examples also had mixed scale patterns, but this one is very clear. I again like the “bolder pattern” for the entry. This floral is so elegant and whimsical. Then, for a very small-scale stripe (sorry, I know they each have stripes), I love this one. If any of you are worried that stripes might be a lot, remember that large (especially large-scale) is important to add to any wallpapered wall to break up the pattern visually. I do think that these could easily be swapped in terms of location, too!

Cream Stripes | Wilhelm in Gray

Lastly, I really love this creamy stripe, so I used it one more time because it looked so good with this stunning mural. Speaking of Jeremiah (and husband Nate Berkus), many of their projects and personal homes have murals like this…but hand-painted. That’s something to aspire to, but for now, this peel-and-stick mural is so so beautiful, and I think it would look AMAZING in this follower’s living/dining room.

Hope this was helpful! Onto the next…

Vintage Kitchen Refresh

It’s a tricky place to be in when you want to make a room, like a kitchen, better, but also have plans to renovate sooner rather than later. That’s the dilemma here. Let’s see what they are looking for help with…

“We have a small 50s kitchen that I think was last renovated in the 70s. We bought the house 7 years ago and have just never known what to do with the kitchen. We are now at a place where there is a good chance we are going to add on to the house and in that case we would add on a new, larger kitchen. Because of this, we have decided we just want something temporary that will hold us over until we do a big addition or renovation. 

Attached are some images of my space. We just put in some peel-and-stick floor tiles, so I have attached photos from before the peel-and-stick and after as well. My style is kind of all over the place. I like mid-century but also Scandinavian and basically everything in between. I think two prime examples of my style are the River House that Emily designed, as well as Kaitlin’s living room. Those spaces are pretty spot on with the style I gravitate towards and similar to what the rest of my house looks like. 

As far as budget, because this is a temporary fix, we are trying to keep it REALLY low. We are open to doing peel-and-stick tiles and stuff just to keep it low. We really want to keep it under $1500 for everything. We already spent a little under $200 on the peel-and-stick floors.”

Ok, those inspo project references are so helpful! Let’s get to work! I really love those new floor tiles, so that’s a great first step. The main culprit, and what will make the biggest difference, is painting the cabinet and changing the hardware. But let’s jump right into my first mood board so you can follow my thought process more easily.

Ceiling Fan | Flushmount | Rug | Wall Shelf | Pegboard | Light Oak Handles and Knobs

Here are my initial thoughts. I think that they should paint that whole cabinet wall and the cabinets a deep green (highly recommend using Samplize to see what green looks best in the room before buying any paint). It will make that wall look really cohesive, purposeful, and the black hinges will also not be so contrasting. Then updating the hardware will instantly make the room feel more elevated and designed (plus with light oak handles, very much give MCM/Scandi and echo the two projects of ours she mentioned:)) Updating the flushmount and ceiling fan will also really dial in the design, and I love adding in a little brass to brighten things up, too. As for the two “shelf” options that would go above the stove, I love the light oak and brass one because it ties in both the hardware and the flushmount, but depending on budget, that black pegboard is large, $30, and great for hanging pots, pans, etc. That rug also feels in the River House/Kaitlin’s Living Room world, goes, with the cabinets, nicely contrasts the tiles in style and pattern scale, and it’s only $119 for a 4×6. So many wins! Everything here should add up to under $900 (as long as they don’t have to hire out for labor), meaning they have a few hundred more dollars for accessories:)

Here’s a part AI, part Photoshop mockup to show the impact of making those few updates! Not too bad, right?! Actually, really pretty:) In terms of the other walls’ colors, I think they should either go all white or all the warm tan they used. Simplifying will really help with overall cohesion. But what’s a kitchen without great accessories??

ART: (Starting Top Left Clockwise) Abstract Objects Print | La Poire – Wisterias Print | Sylvia Takken – In Bloom 2.0 Print | Shatha Al Dafai – Delicate Bloom 10 Print | In the Market Print
ACCESSORIES: (Starting Top Left Clockwise) Moon Face Vine Dinner Plate | Hand-Blown Wine Goblet (Set of 2) | Stainless Steel Salt and Pepper Shakers | Large Wooden Serving Board | Hale Tea Towel | Striped Footed Bowl | Marble Utensil Holder

I went for mostly really affordable options, but if they got all of these items (plus frames for the art), they would likely go over budget. So these can also be more inspo/a long-term plan for when they are shopping or even thrifting! Let’s start with the art. This color palette is rich and warm, and ties in all of the colors they would have in their kitchen. I based the style mostly on Kaitlin’s art in her living room, and all of it is from Desenio because their art is really pretty and so affordable. I would vary the sizing and go big! Large art looks really intentional and awesome. In terms of accessories, I kept things in the same color palette, made their there was a good mix of different materials and cool shapes.

The only other addition/swap I might make if the budget and measurements allowed would be to add something like this 5-tier shelving unit in place of the yellow bar cart. There’s nothing wrong with the cart, but the height and scale might look more intentional and also add more space for styling and storage space, especially with cute baskets. Just an idea:)

A Half-Designed Dining Room

Oh man, can I relate to a half-designed space and the stress that can bring. I’m here and happy to help!

“Basically, my dining room is half-designed, but looking to round out the rest. I’ve been looking for a sideboard to complement our IKEA Morbylanga dining table and fill out this left empty wall. Looking to up the design ante a bit (i.e., I don’t want MORE IKEA stuff). The room faces east with a fantastic hillside view but has weak overhead lighting, so envisioning a sideboard/lamp situation (?) and guessing we need a rug to anchor the space. Especially since there’s a lot of wood going on. We host 20ish people for dinner here regularly (we just add more tables to the end lengthwise), so a sideboard space to put down drinks, etc, would be nice, but also don’t want it to get too tight—so flexible and not-bulky is ideal.

Design style/aesthetic: Welcoming and inviting, modern/MCM, clean, fresh, comfortable (adjacent living room photo attached for reference)
Budget: Not huge! Would love to keep everything under $1500 if possible. We also have kids and host kids, so nothing too precious. Not looking for heirlooms :).”

Ok, now that we know the needs, here are my suggestions!

First off, I’m curious what the space would look like with the other two walls painted the blue color. Doing that might make it feel more like its own unique room? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments:) Second, I’d suggest having the curtains hemmed so that they “kiss” the floor instead of puddling. That look can totally work, but I feel with a more modern design, that tailored hem makes a bit more sense. There’s always the option to use hemming tape if she doesn’t want to pay to get them hemmed. My last suggestion before I get into the products I chose is to only use one of the floor lamps instead of two. Symmetry is, of course, great, but I think sticking with the one in the corner by the art is going to feel better once a sideboard and accessories are on the other wall.

Solid Wood Tray | Sideboard (Set of 2) | Ancien Cream Vase | Rug | Kelly Wearstler: Synchronicity Book | Design of the 20th Century Book | Dark Blue Taper Candles | Light Blue Taper Candles | Weylyn Candelabra | Black Ceramic Pedestal Bowl

Here’s what I came up with. First off, I chose a really affordable rug (from our old line) so that with all the kids and company over, the host wouldn’t be too freaked out by any messes. It’s also got a great stripe pattern which nicely contrasts with the more organic pattern on the curtains. Then I know a sideboard was the main request, so I found this sideboard set for under $600 that’s over 90″ long! It was important to me to have a solid base (aka no legs) since the table and chairs have so many. Visual balance:) I also chose black wood to complement the chairs, but contrast the wood color and fluted detailing to work with the rug’s stripes. If it’s not clear, it was a very intentional choice:) To decorate the top of the sideboard, I chose that big wood tray (again, for wood contrast) and that modern white vase with some delicate detailing. I also really wanted a cool candelabra, which is likely the most “precious” item, but with some museum putty, I’m sure it would be safe. To then make sure it all wasn’t too colorless, I added those light and dark blue taper candles. It’s an easy and affordable way to add color and playfulness! Naturally, I had to include some modern design books of varying sizes to stack, and then finally a simple but beautiful black footed bowl for the table. Nothing too crazy, but will make an awesome difference, and I believe I’m under budget:)

Home Finishing Touches

This one was pretty fun to play with, but let me let the reader explain first:

“Our style is a mix, I guess. I love organic, color, old, and new mixed together. I do have a 10-year-old girl who loves to flip all around the house, and an 8-year-old son who plays with Legos a lot and builds things. So soft, comfortable, and easy to clean, a must.

The couch is new from the Arhaus outlet. It is the Amira sofa, color cinnamon fabric, velvet, and is 90”. The chairs are from my grandmother and are currently as you see in silk washable fabric. Willing to switch out. The main walls are all Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore at 25% lighter. FYI, we will be painting kitchen cupboards, just haven’t confirmed yet. But leaning towards a blue color (similar to the blue in the peacock in the wallpaper) to go with the wallpaper. We love color. In the dining room, we have the Emerald peacock Rifle Paper Co. wallpaper, and the trim is Tricorn Black by Sherwin-Williams. I would love to bring dining room colors into the living room somehow. Maybe have a light, rug, curtains entry table for more storage for kids’ gloves. Idk. Whatever you think. And no, we haven’t gotten a table for the dining room yet. Waiting for Arhaus Perry to come to the outlet store in brown. But if I find something else, I would purchase. The budget for each room would be no more than $5k for each.”

See? Exciting! Here are my initial thoughts. I agree that more of the dining room colors need to come into the living area for balance. I am also pro pulling the blue from the wallpaper and painting the built-in in that. That will look so great. Then, full transparency, I’m a little over budget (more so with the living room, but there are ways to get closer to her goal!) Let’s start with the living space.

Blue Pillow | Holly Cushion Cover | Wool Two-Tone Throw | Sofa | Floor Lamp | Storage Ottoman | Rug | Curtains | Accent Chair | Stump Side Table | Burgundy Pillow | Woven Baskets (Set of 4) | Entryway Console Bar | Red Table Lamp

I put in the sofa to really get a full picture in the mood board. Let’s talk rug first. I love green and how much richness (but not too much) it adds. It’s washable and from a company that both me and my cousin with a dog and a baby swear by. I’m also thinking those lines could act as race tracks for little cars?? The ottoman has storage, the top can flip to be cushioned or flat for playing, and is made in a performance fabric. Plus, I love how the lighter sand colored fabric breaks up the color of the sofa and the rug and complements the lighter stripes in the accent chairs. Now, I really like the accent chairs she has, but the white fabric is a little stark compared to all of those warm and rich colors. Plus, I love the idea of a pattern! However, these aren’t cheap, and they aren’t performance. It was my one “form over function” decision, but maybe they would be totally ok!? They are just sooooo good. The stump side table was to add to what she already has in the room. Before we move to textiles, I am just so in love with that floor lamp. It’s a Paul McCobb, and since she said she also likes old things, this kinda falls in that category. And with so many curves, it’s nice to have a really angular piece in the room.

Textiles? I like the idea of having a pillow a similar color to what the built-in is going to be to tie it in. But she also mentioned they love color and that checkered lumbar is an Emily/EHD favorite and really speaks to the total color palette. I then didn’t want to get too color crazy, so I chose a quieter, but still rich, throw blanket. For the chairs, I don’t think she could go wrong with those round burgundy pillows. The curtains, I think, need to be dark for visual balance, and since the velvet is on the other side of the room, why not more? These navy velvet ones are so perfect. In a dream world, she would buy four (two on each side) so they feel full and maybe even custom, but they also aren’t cheap.

Her last request was an entry table, but I’m not sure I got measurements for that, so I took a guess and really loved this table. It’s simple with elegant details, with a drawer and space underneath for the necessary storage baskets. And why not finish it off with a fun, modern red lamp!? Let me show you the dining room, and then you can give me all of your thoughts:)

Dining Chairs | Dining Table | Rug | Curtains | Sideboard | Table Lamp

TADA! Another beautiful washable rug that my cousin owns and uses under her dining table, so I feel even more confident recommending it. Then, to keep the color as a priority, I chose those velvet green dining chairs. Maybe controversial, but velvet isn’t too bad to clean, and they are stunning. I couldn’t seem to find the Arhaus dining table she was talking about, so I chose yet another Pierce & Ward piece from their West Elm collab. Not sure if this table will be their taste, but I love it (clearly, ha). It just looks so interesting and special. Then, since that nook is fairly dark with the wallpaper, I like the idea of doing a tan curtain in a linen to offset the velvet, too. These are the same curtains Caitlin used in her living room, and she still raves about the quality and insanely affordable price. Finally, I felt like a sideboard was a good idea, and this one is perfect. The undertones of the wood doors to the dining table seem to be the same, and I love the black outside and how it complements the wallpaper. The final piece is that marble lamp, because why not?! It’s cool, a little unexpected, and functional. I really like these two room ideas a lot and hope the reader does too!!

So now let’s hear your thoughts! Any feelings? Suggestions? Let’s chat! And thank you to everyone who submitted, and hopefully to those of you who were chosen, I truly hope this was helpful<3

Love you, mean it.

Opening Image Credits: Design by Emily Henderson and Sarah Weldon | Styled by Emily Henderson and Emily Bowser | Photo by Steven Mcdonald | From: The Prettiest Green And Pink Kitchen Remodel That We Completed In 7 WEEKS

]]> https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/real-life-design-problems-solved/feed 24 8 Easy Ways To Make Your Room Feel Bigger (No Reno Necessary!) https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/8-easy-ways-to-make-your-room-feel-bigger https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/8-easy-ways-to-make-your-room-feel-bigger#comments Wed, 03 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000 https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/?p=391643 It feels safe to say that if most of us got one “home-related” wish, we’d wish for more space, right? […]]]>

It feels safe to say that if most of us got one “home-related” wish, we’d wish for more space, right? But also for most of us, that’s not a realistic option. It tends to be pretty pricey to add more onto a home, if that’s even possible. However, there are some tricks of the trade that can at least make your room feel bigger if that’s what you are looking for. More of an optical illusion, if you will:) I actually can’t believe we haven’t written this post yet! So here are all of our tips and tricks to help your space feel both bigger and well-balanced.

The Right Wall Color Tone (Based on Your Room’s Natural Light)

The amount of natural light in a room is extremely important to the tone of paint you use for your wall paint color. The common thought is to paint a smaller, dimly lit a light color to make it feel bigger and brighter. Let me show you why that isn’t always the best choice.

photos by kaitlin green | left from: our farmhouse family room recap – how i temporarily let “renovation exhaustion” win | right from: family room reveal – by far the coziest room in the house and here’s why

Take the family room in Emily’s farmhouse. It’s one of her favorite room’s but it didn’t really start off that way. She initially chose that taupey color, and while pretty, it wasn’t right. This room doesn’t get very much natural light, which was on purpose since it’s the TV room. Because of that, the taupe just felt a bit dead. As you can see, Emily knew it had to change and went with that rich, beautiful blue/teal. When you’re in the room, it feels both cozy and large at the same time.

make your room feel bigger
left photo by tessa neustadt, from: family room update (and a lot of changes) | right: photo by sara ligorria-tramp, from: styling to sell: the playroom/family room and the 4 lessons i learned along the way…

This is Emily’s old family/playroom in Los Angeles for those who are newer here. Em really wanted to make the room feel cozy, and as most of you know, she’s the #1 fan of the color blue…so she chose that really pretty blue for the room initially. But there was too much light coming through those front windows and from the other parts of the house. So while she wanted cozy, it really cut off the space from the rest of the house, made it feel small in a not-so-great way, and didn’t read how she wanted with all that light coming in. She regrouped, went with a happy white (and a cool mural), and viola! A bright, happy room that feels SO much bigger and blends better with the other rooms it’s attached to:)

RULE OF THUMB:
– Less Natural Light = Darker Paint Color
– More Natural Light = Lighter Paint Color

Don’t Crowd The Walls

Especially if you live in a small home, the idea of giving up even an inch of floor space seems WILD. But trust me, if you give your walls some breathing room, the whole space will feel A LOT bigger.

photos by sara ligorria-tramp | from: makeover takeover: jess’ long awaited (small space) living room reveal

This was my last studio apartment, and boy, did I love it. However, space was an issue as it was under 400 sq/ft. It was tempting to want to cram a bunch of furniture in there (maybe a desk too?), but instead I let the pieces I chose breathe a little. Notice how the sofa isn’t completely pushed to the wall, and how the side tables aren’t right up against the sofa and/or walls. Everything feels placed instead of crammed. Doing that will inherently make your room feel bigger.

photos by kaitlin green | from: kaitlin’s 70s inspired, colorful and cool living room revealed (y’all, i’m so jealous)

Since not everyone lives in a little studio, here’s Kaitlin’s INCREDIBLE living room we revealed last year. Her living room can clearly handle/needed more furniture than my old one, but still the principles are the same. None of the furniture is pushed against the wall, and there are generous pathways between all of the furniture pieces. It’s cozy, collected, intentional, but not crowded.

photo by kaitlin green | from: kaitlin’s 70s inspired, colorful and cool living room revealed (y’all, i’m so jealous)

I wanted to zoom in on her bar cabinet to show that even this piece has a little room from the wall:) Every piece breathes, which creates the illusion of more space.

RULE OF THUMB:
– Don’t push your furniture against your walls.
– Give yourself pathways between your furniture.

Choose The Right Furniture Scale

Sorry, we’re not done with my rooms:) But the reason why is that your girl (me) has lived exclusively in small spaces and feels very passionate about this piece of advice!

styled by emily bowser | photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: makeover takeover: it’s finally here…jess’ art filled living room/office reveal

Don’t automatically get the smallest-sized furniture for a small space. It may seem counterintuitive, but typically, choosing “normal-sized” furniture pieces will make your space feel intentional and not truncated. Of course, there’s a balance, right? For my current living room sofa, I chose the 84″ size. There was a 72″, but I felt it would have looked too small. Would I have more “space” with those 12″? Yes. But not in a good way. And had I chosen a big sectional, that clearly would have been too much. This piece of advice was also something that Nate Berkus said in the video I saw a couple of years ago, so if you don’t trust me, trust Nate.

styled by emily bowser | photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: makeover takeover: it’s finally here…jess’ art filled living room/office reveal

My desk area is another example. I could have chosen an average-sized, rectangular desk, but instead, I wanted to fill out the space better and chose an extra-long desk. Imagine a smaller desk in the nook. It would have looked tiny, which would have made the space look less intentional and smaller.

photos by kaitlin green | from: how i convinced my friend to paint her room really dark: a kid/dog-friendly basement makeover with article furniture

My last example is Kaitlin’s basement/office. First off, do we see how much better this low-light room looks painted dark?? Exactly. But I’m here to talk about furniture scale. In the “progress” photo, the furniture scales aren’t balanced with each other. But when the sectional and flushmount got bigger in the new version, and the wall cabinet smaller, it all feels so much more open and larger.

RULE OF THUMB:
– Buy normal-sized furniture for even a small space.
– Don’t be afraid to go a little larger in general!

Hang Your Curtains Higher

This may be well known, but it’s TOO IMPORTANT not to include.

Since we don’t have any examples of us doing this wrong, ha. Here are some graphics I made for my own bedroom. It’s pretty clear which makes the room feel bigger, right??

Here’s the before of how the rod in my bedroom was installed. I understand wanting to show off the moulding, but ultimately, making the room feel taller and bigger was more of a priority to me.

If you’re looking for a really solid guide of what to do (and not to do), this very helpful graphic is from our famous “Hanging Curtains All Wrong” post.

styled by emily bowser | photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: makeover takeover: jess’ colorful yet calm bedroom reveal

And then here! The reveal! The curtains would have looked fine on the window moulding, but they are simply better above, making the room feel so much bigger…which is exactly what I wanted:)

RULE OF THUMB:
– Hang your curtain rod 2/3 the distance from the top of your window.

A Bigger Rug

Let’s continue with the scale talk because rug scale is so important!

photo by kaitlin green | from: revealing my brother’s ultra cozy family room (and the most comfortable green sectional)

Is there a time and a place for a small rug? Sure, but only if it’s sooooo intentional. Otherwise, go bigger! Here’s a post about the right rug size for every room, but the overarching piece of advice is to not skimp on size. Take the river house family room. Almost all of the sectional is on the rug, which we love. Imagine the rug smaller, it wouldn’t look right. Honestly, they could have even gone a size up if they had wanted to. Choosing your main decor pieces in substantial sizes will, again, make the room feel bigger. But for rugs, you still want space away from your walls. Otherwise, it will look like strange wall-to-wall carpet.

photo by tessa neustadt | from: brady’s living room refresh with the citizenry

See here, Brady chose a rug that was tailored to the room as opposed to the sofa. I think was was mostly to clear the entrance to the dining nook/kitchen. Every room will have its own needs, so always make sure you measure so you know where it will hit in the space.

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: moto reveal: how mallory made her boring living room feel homey in just one month

And my last rug example is Mallory’s living room. She, too, is in a not huge apartment, but still made sure that her rug was a substantial size, without making it look almost wall-to-wall. The space feels bigger because of it!

RULE OF THUMB:
– Go for the bigger size (even if you need to wait a little to save up).
– Always measure before you buy.

Larger Scale Art

This is the last scale lecture, I promise:)

photo by kaitlin green | from: i’ve been secretly decorating my best friend’s house – living room reveal today!

Large-scale art doesn’t just mean one HUGE piece of art on a wall, like these two very awesome pieces you see above in Em’s best friend’s living room. But since I’m starting with this room, let’s talk about them. A large piece of art, depending on the design, lets your eye relax and focus. It creates a sense of grandness, which in turn will make the room feel large and grand. I know that extra-large pieces like these are usually pretty expensive, but if you find one within your budget, go for it!

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: makeover takeover: jess’ long awaited (small space) living room reveal

But it’s not just about one large piece; you can also have a gallery of pieces, like I did in my last apartment. The trick with creating a gallery wall that’s going to make a room feel bigger is to simply… go big. I went floor to ceiling, making sure I had my large “anchor piece” and then building around that. Here’s a whole post on our no-fail guide to creating your own gallery wall. Overall, make it have a visual impact and don’t go too small with every piece.

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: one of emily’s best friends gets the cozy yet sophisticated bedroom makeover she really deserves

And here’s a less intense version of a single piece of art that is perfectly sized for the wall it’s on. I’m sure there are a lot of people who would’ve put up a smaller-sized piece, but it would go against the balance/scale of the room (which is what makes a room look and feel bigger:)).

RULE OF THUMB:
– Go big or go home:)
– Avoid too much “bitsy” art that will ultimately make your room feel smaller and cluttered.

Mirrors

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: one of emily’s best friends gets the cozy yet sophisticated bedroom makeover she really deserves

This one may be pretty self-explanatory, but a mirror not only visually creates an optical illusion that there’s more “room” in the room it’s in, but it also bounces light around to make a space feel brighter, which also tends to make a room feel bigger.

photo by sara ligorria-tramp | from: new moto reveal: emily bowser’s “refreshed for function” small living room makeover

It’s a very easy hack and can act as a large-scale piece of art! It’s a win-win-win.

DECLUTTER

I don’t have any photos for this one because all of our professionally shot rooms are intentionally uncluttered:) This is not about becoming a minimalist, but more about everything you have out, should have a place. The furniture and decor can all visually breathe. You should be able to walk into your room and feel calm when you walk into your home, right? Caitlin wrote a really great post about how she declutters, in case you need any tips. I mean, who doesn’t?

This is where I leave you, with the hope you feel inspired to make a couple of changes if that’s what you’ve been looking for:) Of course, not everyone wants their home to feel big, but if you do, these tips are going to help at least a little.

Love you, mean it.

Opening Image Credits: Design by Mallory Wackerman | Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: MOTO REVEAL: How Mallory Made Her Boring Living Room Feel Homey In Just One Month

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