Interior Design

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  • 10 Restful and Stylish New Bedrooms

    Having a calm and relaxing bedroom that doesn’t skimp on style is the goal of many homeowners. But that can be interpreted in many ways. Here, designers share the details they used to create calming bedrooms in looks that range from subtle to sophisticated.

    1. Old Meets New

    Designer: Traci Mortazavi of Nate Fischer Interiors
    Location: Laguna Hills, California
    Size: 350 square feet (33 square meters)

    Homeowners’ request. “For their primary bedroom, they desired a space that would be both calming and timeless yet comfortable,” designer Traci Mortazavi says. “The client’s home is filled with beautiful antiques, and seamlessly integrating these cherished pieces with modern furnishings presented an exciting challenge. Through careful thought and attention to detail, we were able to blend the old with the new, creating a room that reflects their unique style and personality. Their beloved dog, Pippa (pictured here), was another key consideration. This retreat is as much hers as it is her humans’, and we ensured that every choice made was mindful of her presence. We selected materials that are durable, pet-friendly and easy to clean, ensuring the space remains both beautiful and practical for all members of the family.”

    Special features. “The canopy bed was the key piece for the space and helped create a cozy feel that can often be lost in a large room that has 10-foot ceilings,” Mortazavi says. “A calming, well-balanced paint color is also key. We used Benjamin Moore White Dove on all the walls.” The nightstands combine a reeded wood base with a stone top.

    Designer tip. “Tall ceilings in a primary bedroom can present a challenge when aiming to create a cozy, intimate retreat,” Mortazavi says. “The key is selecting furniture that complements the scale of the space. Opt for pieces that help fill both the horizontal and vertical dimensions, such as a canopy bed and broader, dresser-style nightstands. Layering textures is another effective way to add warmth and comfort. Consider incorporating a mix of materials through rugs, bedding and drapery to soften the space and enhance its inviting feel.”

    2. Resort Feel

    Designer: Tanya Lacourse of Violet Marsh Interiors
    Location: Sandy Springs, Georgia

    Homeowners’ request. “These clients bought this home in Sandy Springs that was built in the ’90s and it was stuck in the ’90s,” designer Tanya Lacourse says. “They lived here for a few years before deciding to renovate. Their vision was to make this principal suite feel like a hotel and spa. They make regular trips to Mayakoba, Mexico, and are very inspired by the Banyan Tree resort. It’s laid-back, modern, earthy and luxurious at the same time. It’s inspired by Mexico while also having an Asian feel.”

    Special features. Dark paneled slat wall. Oversize brass beaded chandelier. Asymmetrical black-and-brass pendant lights. Upholstered velvet bed in a rich brown. Leather sofa. Custom drapery in a textural cream sheer and black linen.

    Designer tip. “In planning this renovation, we proposed a bold idea: cover the windows behind the bed to create a paneled slat wall,” Lacourse says. “With plenty of windows on the adjacent wall, reducing brightness was a good choice for rich, moody ambiance.”

    3. Natural Layers

    Designer: Abigail Ray Interiors
    Location: Overland Park, Kansas
    Size: 660 square feet (61 square meters); 20 by 33 feet

    Homeowners’ request. “The clients requested a calm, relaxing retreat, a space they could recharge and unwind,” designer Abigail Ray says. “The existing space, while large, lacked cohesion and refinement. They had just repainted the room in Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray prior to engaging Abigail Ray Interiors and were feeling the room was darker than what they really wanted, so looked to us for ideas to keep the paint color but lighten up the space overall.”

    Special features. “To achieve the relaxed vibe but keep the room interesting, we used lots of natural elements and soft layers,” Ray says. “The ceiling in this space was really special, and we wanted to take advantage of the height, which was achieved by installing a large, tiered drum chandelier made from natural rope. The wallpaper was another great way to bring in movement, nature and lighten up the room. We papered the top two-thirds of the walls in Eijffinger’s Feathery Clouds, which is such a dreamy pattern, and kept the Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray paint on the bottom third, separated with a white chair rail. We rounded out the room with lots of mirrors to really keep it light and bright. An oversized Palecek Laurel mirror doubles as a work of art given its handcrafted rope-and-raffia-straw design.”

    Designer tip. “Juxtaposition,” Ray says. “Mixing curated materials and styles are what keeps a room interesting. To balance out all the natural elements in this room, we layered in really gorgeous high-end finishes: brass bedside sconces and picture lights, a velvet bench at the foot of the bed, dreamy cream curtains that flank the windows on either side of the bed, crisp bedding and some dressers that have a slick black finish mixed with natural cane material.”

    4. Earthy Casual

    Designer: Caileen Uznis of Caileen Designs
    Location: Malibu, California
    Size: 180 square feet (17 square meters); 12 by 15 feet

    Homeowners’ request. “The overall vision was earthy and casual to reflect the surroundings,” designer Caileen Uznis says. “The clients wanted more privacy but to keep the same loft feel as before — and more storage.”

    Special features. “The views are the best part of this project, so we wanted to include lots of windows, including French doors leading out to a balcony,” Uznis says. “The windows are in a bronze color. We included high, peaked ceilings to give an airy feel and make the room feel larger than it is. The high ceiling is finished with white shiplap and a natural oak beam and a custom macrame light fixture from Morocco. All fabrics are natural — linen curtains and Roman shades, linen duvet cover and wool rug — which contributes to the earthy casual feel. We also included his-and-her walk-in closets.”

    Designer tip. “The fabric for the Roman shades was the jumping-off point for the design of this room and all the colors came from that fabric, even though it isn’t used widely throughout the room,” Uznis say. “Instead of matching the curtains to the shades, we picked a solid linen that matched the background of the printed fabric and used that for the curtains with a decorative trim to keep it from looking too busy.”

    5. Softly Balanced

    Designer: Izabela Tokarski of Kabela & Co
    Location: Dobbs Ferry, New York
    Size: 225 square feet (21 square meters); 15 by 15 feet

    Homeowners’ request. “This was a new-construction project,” designer Izabela Tokarski says. “For this primary bedroom design, we focused on creating an intimate and serene retreat that balances softness with depth.”

    Special features. “The foundation is a neutral color palette — warm whites and soft beiges — enhanced by a sophisticated textured wallpaper that adds dimension and elegance,” Tokarski says. “Blue serves as the accent color, introduced through plush bedding and decorative pillows, bringing a calming yet refined contrast. A standout feature of this bedroom is the custom-designed tray ceiling, which adds depth and architectural interest to the space. The recessed portion is clad in white oak, bringing warmth and a natural elegance that complements the soft, neutral color palette. Around the perimeter, we incorporated detailed crown molding, which not only enhances the ceiling’s sophistication but also serves as a concealed housing for LED strip lighting.”

    Designer tip. “One key designer trick we used in this bedroom was layering lighting to enhance depth and intimacy,” Tokarski says. “By integrating LED strip lighting behind the crown molding in the tray ceiling, we created a soft, indirect glow that eliminates harsh shadows and makes the space feel cozier. This effect is especially impactful in the evening, reinforcing the moody, inviting ambiance the homeowners wanted.”

    6. Cozy and Comfortable

    Designer: Albina Hunt of Albina & Co.
    Location: Santa Monica, California
    Size: 400 square feet (37 square meters)

    Homeowners’ request. “The client wanted something very cozy and comfortable yet clean and modern,” designer Albina Hunt says. “Sometimes these two themes can feel opposing, so careful consideration of the space was paramount to its success.”

    Special features. Calacatta marble herringbone tile on the fireplace. Pendant light made from recycled cardboard. Upholstered headboard. Tufted modern sofa. Vintage art and candlesticks.

    Designer tip. “Less is more,” Hunt says. “Keep it clean but find balance along the way. And always mix in some vintage pieces.”

    “Uh-oh” moment. “The homeowners really wanted some seating, particularly armchairs,” Hunt says. “Unfortunately, the space didn’t really allow for it. Instead, we selected a sleek sofa to place under the windows, as well as a narrow coffee table to create a comfortable seating moment that complements the room, making it functional and perfectly fitting from a scale and balance perspective.”

    7. Spa-Like Retreat

    Designer: Minhnuyet Hardy Interiors
    Location: Atlanta
    Size: 320 square feet (30 square meters); 16 by 20 feet

    Homeowners’ request. “The homeowner wanted a spa-like retreat for her bedroom,” designer Minhnuyet Hardy says. “She loves the colors pink and purple and wanted a soft and serene bedroom to relax in. The homeowner also needed a lot of closed storage.”

    Special features. “We decided on various shades of rose to bring in the soft shades of pink without the room appearing juvenile,” Hardy says. “We sourced a textured grasscloth wallcovering that has a rose-colored background with a hint of shimmer to infuse a bit of girlie glam into the room. We painted the room Sherwin-Williams Mink, which is a gray with a purple undertone, to make the space cozy and moody. The existing window coverings lacked the ability to make the room dark, so we had fully functional motorized custom blackout drapery installed for complete darkness when needed. The large nightstands also function as mini dressers and help to accommodate extra storage.”

    Matching dressers sit on the wall opposite the bed. The canopy bed combines weathered gray acacia wood with cotton blend upholstery.

    Designer tip. “I feel that most homeowners select too small of a rug for the bedroom,” Hardy says. “For a king-size bed, we like a minimum size of at least 9 by 12 feet or larger if space will allow it. The rug should be placed so that it lays horizontal to the bed and 4 to 5 inches from the front of the nightstands.”

    “Uh-oh” moment. “The most challenging obstacle was that the existing ceiling fan was centered on the room but not centered on the bed,” Hardy says. “It was cost-prohibitive to move the junction box since it was a concrete ceiling under the sheetrock. We solved the offset centerline by sourcing this fabulous natural crystal chandelier that was asymmetric. You don’t notice that the chandelier is not centered on the bed at all.”

    8. Elegant Ease

    Designer: Julia Vikander Decoration
    Location: Winnetka, Illinois

    Homeowners’ request. “As this was a new build already in progress, we were not able to tweak the square footage or the existing floor plans, so our only objective was elegant opulence,” designer Julia Vikander says.

    Special features. “We used subtle taupes, chocolate brown with silver undertones and a blush of violet throughout,” Vikander says. “The Phillip Jeffries grasscloth wallcovering with bespoke seams amid its overall textural appearance allowed the room not to feel cold or too precious.”

    Designer tip. “Always add sheer window treatments to unusually shaped bedroom windows to create an overall cocooning vibe within,” Vikander says. “It can be a challenge to sort through shapes and proportions to cover, but the added warmth makes for a serene calmness.”

    9. Warm Coastal

    Designer: Nikole Starr Interiors
    Location: Galveston, Texas
    Size: 150 square feet (14 square meters)

    Homeowners’ request. “We created a true guest suite by encasing this bedroom in shiplap and warm coastal accents,” designer Nikole Starr says.

    Special features. Shiplap in Benjamin Moore Blue Dusk. Woven rattan bed frame detail and woven pendant light. “We wired for pendants instead of traditional lamps for accent lighting,” Starr says.

    Designer tip. “We layered a rug over the carpet to add to the room’s color story and add interest that the carpet alone couldn’t provide,” Starr says.

    10. Soft and Subtle

    Designer: Kristin Pair of Bill Clark Homes
    Location: Leland, North Carolina
    Size: 247½ feet (23 square meters); 15 by 16½ feet

    Homeowners’ request. For this model home, designer Kristin Pair says she wanted to create “a collected design incorporating high-end and budget-friendly items curated to highlight the features of the primary bedroom suite while keeping true to the overall palette and theme of the home.”

    Special features. Soft and subtle layers of pattern and texture in warm neutrals. Painted millwork feature wall. Cove ceiling with molding. Light wood floors.

    Designer tip. “We knew we wanted to create a warm and inviting space with a color palette that could be used in any home,” Pair says. “Start with a staple item like your bed or rug as the foundation of the design and color theme and build from there.”

    “Uh-oh” moment. “The gold tone of the dresser hardware was a different shade than we thought when we ordered the piece,” Pair says. “We did not have time to order new hardware, so we spray-painted the dresser hardware to match the other gold tones used in the room.”

  • Room of the Day: Cheerful and Bright Laundry Room in Toronto

    Interior designer Cynthia Soda knew the issues with this laundry room all too well because she grew up in this house. In addition to a seriously awkward layout, it had green tile counters with pink grout. When her parents were finally ready for a remodel, they gave her full freedom in the design. “My mom said she wanted ‘an eclectic-modern-retro-vintage-cheerful laundry,’ ” Soda says. “I said, ‘Mom, that’s not a thing, those are just a bunch of words linked together,’ but I tried to hit each one of those words in the design.”

    Laundry Room of the Day
    What happens here: Stain removing, rinsing, spinning, drying, fluffing, folding, hanging, ironing, dog washing
    Location: Just outside Toronto
    Size: 76 square feet (7.1 square meters)
    Designer: Cynthia Soda

    To hit “vintage,” Soda found a funky laundry room decal for the door on Etsy and used a classic crystal knob. The frosted glass on the door adds a more modern touch.

    As for eclectic, Soda used a lively 8-by-8-inch hexagonal floor tile in a black-and-white patchwork pattern. “My parents were totally down for this, and they appreciate high contrast,” she says.

    Before, there was a door to the driveway where the window now is. “The washer and dryer were on either side of this door, and for some reason, they faced each other,” Soda says. “It was a very awkward layout.”

    Because her parents never used that door, she replaced it with the window, which let her take advantage of all the square footage with a layout that made sense. “A lot of people have doors they never use. It’s wonderful when you can get rid of it and reclaim useful space,” Soda says.

    Wall color: Chantilly Lace OC-65, Benjamin Moore; cabinet color: Gossamer Blue 2123-40, Benjamin Moore; cabinets: Colclo Custom Woodworking; appliances: Duet, Whirlpool; floor tile: St-Barth 8-by-8-inch hexagon, Céragrès

    Soda worked in cozy bed cubbies for Bella and Eddie, her parents’ pups. The cabinets above hold all of the dogs’ food, toys, shampoo and other supplies.

    This second window was existing, but a sink had stood where the built-ins are now. Soda moved the sink next to the appliances to make room for these hardworking pantry cabinets, which she sized to accommodate the ironing board. With the new layout, there’s plenty of room to iron in here.

    Now the sink is conveniently located for pretreating stains and hand-washing. It’s also deep enough for bathing dogs.

    Soda hung the rod over the machines extra high to accommodate longer dresses and skirts. “We were in the retail business, so we already had a long grab bar for hanging clothing up that high,” she says. Of course, before bathing the dogs, they make sure they don’t have any clothes hanging overhead!

    Sink: 400779 Practika laundry-utility sink with built-in washboard in stainless steel, Blanco; light fixture: Glendora 14259/4, Supreme Lighting

    Another retro touch is the choice of pillow-front cabinetry, which Soda mixed with on-trend brushed-brass hardware in a modern streamlined shape. The pleasing blue hits the “cheerful” her mother wanted. So do the white tongue-and-groove walls, which bring the popular shiplap look in a cleaner, more modern way.

    Cabinet hardware: Lew’s Dolin Bar Series in Brushed Brass, Upper Canada Specialty Hardware

    Soda mixed metals in the sink area, with champagne bronze for the faucet and stainless steel for the bowl. “For the [marble] countertops we just wanted an easy solution that wouldn’t take away from anything else,” she says. “I just went to my local stone place and asked them what they had that was easy and readily available.”

    Trinsic single-handle pull-down kitchen faucet in Champagne Bronze, Delta; countertops: Cashmere Carrara, Simplex Marble & Granite

    Before, the room had no workable counter space. Now there’s plenty of room to seperate and fold. There’s also scads of storage space for non-laundry-related items like cleaning supplies. “Actually, my parents are redoing their kitchen now, so it’s really convenient for them to have all of this extra cabinet space for dishes while they complete construction,” Soda says.

    “My parents were always super supportive when I was growing up, letting me design my room however I wanted. But my sisters kept questioning everything I was doing in here,” she says. “When it was all done, everyone loved it. This was an exercise in trust.”

  • 10 Bedroom Design Features Pros Always Recommend

    Many people want their bedroom to be a sanctuary and retreat that rejuvenates the mind, body and spirit. Setting up a bedroom to foster that kind of atmosphere takes more than just placing a bed in a room. So we asked 40 design and remodeling professionals about the features they recommend to homeowners looking to create a functional, stylish and blissful bedroom. Here are the 10 bedroom features that came up again and again.

     

    1. Layers of Lighting

    Hands down the bedroom feature pros recommend the most is a layered lighting plan. This approach should ideally include natural lighting, task lighting for reading or doing a crossword puzzle in bed, ambient lighting like lamps and recessed ceiling lights, and statement lighting, such as a chandelier. “Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood and enhancing the ambiance of a bedroom, making it a must-have feature for creating a cozy and inviting retreat,” says designer Barbara Elliott of The Sisters and Co. Decorating Den Interiors.

     

    This Miami bedroom by The Habitat Collective highlights a layered lighting scheme with abundant natural light, recessed ceiling lights, table lamps and a statement light fixture.

     

    Many designers put a strong emphasis on including dimmers for all artificial lighting in a bedroom. “Always install a dimmer for your lighting,” designer Kasey Smith says. “As you wind down for the evening, lowering the lights will not only create a cozy atmosphere but also signal your body it’s time to rest, allowing a much easier transition to sleep.”

    If you’re not updating the electrical components during a bedroom refresh, consider dimmer outlet plugs. These relatively inexpensive plugs allow you to connect most floor lamps, table lamps and even string lights to gain the ability to dim the lighting. Some smart models sync with Alexa or Google Home, giving you voice-control capabilities.

     

     

    2. Bedside Light Switch

    Speaking of lighting, many pros can’t speak highly enough about locating a light switch, preferably with dimming capability, next to the bed. A light switch panel that also includes an outlet and USB ports is especially helpful. These let homeowners dim or shut off lights and charge devices without getting up or reaching behind or under a bed or nightstand. “In the bedroom, functionality is key,” says builder Nate Abutbol of NA Design Builders. “Who wants to get up to turn off the lights? Or turn on the light to read? Or reach down to plug in one’s phone?”

    This Raleigh, North Carolina, bedroom by LK Design NC features a multifunction light switch panel discreetly disguised amid a similarly colored wallpaper.

     

     

    3. High-Quality Bedding

    This might be obvious, but it’s worth noting that numerous home professionals highly recommend you don’t skimp on bedding. “I always recommend investing in high-quality linens,” says builder Jim Pitcher of CRC Builders. “While linens may seem like a small detail, they play a significant role in enhancing comfort, style and overall sleep quality. Quality linens, such as luxurious sheets, duvet covers and pillowcases made from premium materials like Egyptian cotton, linen or bamboo, not only feel wonderful against the skin but also contribute to a better night’s sleep. These materials are breathable, soft and hypoallergenic, promoting airflow and regulating body temperature for a more comfortable sleeping environment. Moreover, investing in high-quality linens can elevate the aesthetic appeal of the bedroom. Crisp, clean sheets and beautifully designed duvet covers can instantly transform the look and feel of the space, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication.”

     

    The more layers of bedding the better. “Layered bedding is a consistent recommendation for bedrooms in my design approach,” designer Missy Stewart says. “The incorporation of varied textures and colors not only enhances the overall comfort but also injects a multitude of design qualities into the space, elevating its aesthetic appeal.”

    Above, the Sacramento, California, bedroom by Design Shop Interiors shows how it’s done with layers of bedding in warm neutral tones.

     

    Designer Kathryn Murphy recommends pairing an upholstered headboard with quality bedding. “These two things make a space feel cozy and luxurious,” she says.

    This Orange County, California, bedroom by Gonterman Custom Homes features an inviting tufted headboard and cushy bedding.

     

     

    4. Window Treatments

    Drapery is also high on the recommendation list. Window treatments help mitigate light and sound and add style. “Full-length drapery elevates almost any bedroom,” designer Lisa Tharp says. “Clients are often surprised at how transformative this one element can be. Drapery adds softness and verticality, at once enhancing a room’s comfort and proportions. The key is to ensure they are well-made, sufficiently full and mounted high and wide to cover wall, not glass.”

    You’ll find a good example in this Atlanta bedroom by design firm Elle Du Monde. Curtain rods placed near the ceiling help emphasize the height of the room, making it appear more spacious. The rods are also sized wide enough so the curtains fully cover the window area, preventing light from leaking in.

    For this luxurious Miami bedroom, Design West concealed the curtain tracks in a ceiling cove, giving the floor-length drapery a clean look.

    5. Statement Bed or Headboard

    Many pros think the most important element in the bedroom should receive the most attention. “Create a statement with your bed and build the room from there,” says designer Dana Bender of Pine Street Carpenters. “Go for a higher headboard or a four-poster bed and splurge on great linens.”

    In this Nashville, Tennessee, bedroom, designer Stephanie Ervin used a natural seagrass rope-wrapped canopy bed to add dimension, texture and interest to the soothing modern-organic space.

    A statement headboard is another way to draw attention. “It serves as a focal point in the bedroom and can significantly impact the overall vibe of the space,” says design-build pro Michael Rezek of Chi Renovation & Design. “Whether it’s through intricate designs, bold colors or unique shapes and patterns, a statement headboard is a feature that can elevate the bedroom’s design, making it more visually stimulating and personalized.”

    An upholstered headboard versus a hard, solid material will add function to your room. “I always recommend an upholstered headboard,” says designer Heather Hanley of The Tin Roof. “Not only is it an elegant look and timeless, but it’s functional for those of us that love to read in bed, watch TV or work in bed. I love to lean up against the headboard and spread out a project and work while sitting in bed. It’s cozy and seems somewhat like resting, even if it’s not.”

    In this Tampa, Florida, bedroom by Debra Ackerbloom, a scalloped channel-tufted headboard elevates the serene style.

    6. Wallpaper

    Perhaps more so than for any other room in a home, designers recommend using wallpaper in a bedroom to add color, texture and visual interest. “Have you ever thought about how many hours you stared at the walls of your room as a teenager?” designer Lilianne Steckel jokes. “We don’t always have that luxury as an adult, but adding a special touch makes the room where you rest feel like an extra relaxation escape.”

    Many pros focus on textured wallpaper when it comes to bedrooms. “I absolutely love using a textured grasscloth or linen wallpaper in a primary bedroom and wrapping all the walls, including the ceiling,” designer Deirdre Doherty says. “Even if you choose a color close to the overall home color — let’s say a cream or white — the room immediately feels more cozy and special. It works in both modern and traditional applications, and every time we do it, the clients are so happy they did.”

    Designer Harmony Weihs of Design Harmony agrees. “You can only do so much with drywall and paint,” she says. “Wallpaper adds warmth, texture and interest.”

    This Houston bedroom by L Design Group features a richly colored grasscloth wallpaper on the headboard wall that adds depth to the room while allowing the statement canopy bed to stand out.

    This Denver bedroom by Duet Design Group shows how a patterned wallpaper creates movement, depth and style.

    7. Color and Personality

    Sometimes, focusing on comfort alone can leave a bedroom lacking in style and character. Many pros recommend that homeowners remember to express their personalities through color, pattern, artwork and decorative items. “We recommend incorporating the client’s favorite color in a bedroom in particular,” says designer Vanessa Smith of Flourish Interiors. “Primary bedrooms should be a very intimate and personal space. As such, they should really renew the mind, body and spirit. We find that starting with the client’s personal favorite color, and especially if it is a soothing color, helps start the design process off in a good direction.”

    This Bridgeport, Connecticut, bedroom by Hendricks Churchill features energetic layers of pattern, color and artistic flair.

    This Miami bedroom by Lantz Collective features pleasing pops of coastal greens and blues.

    8. Ceiling Treatment

    Often the first thing you see when you wake up is the ceiling. That calls for some special attention. “More than most other spaces, the design of the ceiling is really important in bedrooms,” says designer Jeremy Babel of Jeremy Babel Architecture + Design. “When you are laying in bed, the ceiling becomes a major view, so you want it to be well-designed. This can be an opportunity for specialty finishes like wood paneling and interesting light fixtures that conceal the bulbs and look good from below. But most importantly the layout of fixtures and devices should be carefully planned so the ceiling view feels organized and well-considered.”

    This Denver bedroom by Kimball Modern Design + Interiors features a wood-paneled ceiling that adds warmth and visual texture.

    In this Houston bedroom by Houston Affordable Designs, textured wood-look wallpaper adds warmth and interest to the angled ceiling.

    9. Rug Under the Bed

    You may have noticed that many of the bedroom recommendations focus on things people see and touch most often. That’s why many pros advocate for placing a rug under the bed. “It’s the very first thing your feet will hit to start the day,” says designer Christine Craig of Designology Studio. Craig used a plush rug to create a warm and soft surface underfoot in this Los Angeles bedroom.

    In a Los Angeles Spanish bungalow remodel by Tim Barber Architects, a small fur-like rug sits strategically next to the bed atop a large area rug.

    10. Great View

    Whenever possible, pros suggest highlighting a great view in a bedroom. “Having a view from the bed is always a goal,” says designer Stephanie Tottingham of Kashas Design | Build. If a sweeping landscape isn’t in the cards, consider adding artwork.

    “We prefer to have art in the bedroom versus a television,” designer Craig says. “Your bedroom ought to be a place for unwinding and rejuvenation.”

    This inviting Tiburon, California, bedroom by Lane McNab Interiors features a little of both. You’ll also notice other recommended elements, such as an upholstered headboard, layered bedding, wallpaper, a rug and motorized window treatments hidden in the ceiling.

  • 10 Fresh Design Ideas for Utility Rooms

    Ask any homeowner what they’d like to improve about their property, and a likely response is the addition of a utility room. The stark reality of all too many homes is an overflowing laundry basket in the kitchen, assorted linen drying on the radiators, and never being able to find a pair of socks that even remotely match.

    Squeezing a separate utility area into your home — even if it’s reworking your existing kitchen cabinets to make more efficient use of the space — will help you to stay on top of the dastardly linen and hopefully reduce your household headaches to the barest minimum.

     

    1. Hide it away.

    Creating a space for all your household needs — such as a drying rack that tucks away into a cabinet or somewhere to hang your ironing board — and then concealing everything behind large doors will help create a streamlined home.

    A separate sink for your laundry and lots of storage baskets are practical additions if you have more room.

     

    2. Introduce a dark shade.

    Who says the utility room needs to be bland? It’s not usually the most glamorous of spaces, but you can add some creative cool by daubing the walls in a dark gray.

    Most of us put our washing machine on the floor, but elevating it to a more ergonomic height offers storage space beneath and makes it more comfortable to load.

    3. Stack it.

    Squeeze a utility area into the smallest of spaces by sitting the dryer on top of the washing machine. Install shelves above for laundry detergent and other essential household items.

    4. Hang it high.

    The smallest of kitchens can double as a laundry space if you suspend a drying rack above the sink.

    Incorporating a tall cabinet into the corner of the room creates a handy place to store your vacuum cleaner, broom, mop and bucket, and ensures that a hardworking space stays clutter-free.

    5. Help it work harder.

    If you have a generously sized utility room, put the space to good use by adding a row of hooks for coats, gloves and bags too. Storage above and below can be used for shoes and other family paraphernalia, which can quickly turn the tidiest of homes into total chaos.

    6. Have fun with color.

    If you want to make laundry chores less dull, why not have fun with the design of your utility room? By painting the cabinets in a rich blue and adding an assortment of patterned tiles, this laundry space is fresh and invigorating.

    7. Create a minimalistic design.

    If you prefer your laundry room to have more of a Zen feel, keep the design minimal to help you tackle your household chores. Painting the drying rack in the same shade as the walls here helps it disappear, while a Shaker-style cabinet design, wicker baskets and tongue-and-groove paneling lend a country touch to this beautifully designed utility space.

    8. Squeeze in a laundry nook.

    If you lack space for a utility room, consider hiding your washing machine and dryer behind cabinet doors. Putting a couple of shelves above the machines provides plenty of room to store laundry detergent and other essentials.

    9. Think about location.

    In a busy household with lots of children and animals — cue piles of muddy boots and annoying paw prints — designing your utility space close to the kitchen and the back door makes a lot of sense. As well as being somewhere to stash your laundry out of sight, it’s a useful place to let dogs dry off after a muddy walk.

    10. Plan out your space.

    If you have the luxury of a separate utility room, put it to good use by including a separate sink for hand-washing. With cabinets above and below for storing detergent and other laundry essentials, and painted a soft shade of gray, this room is a self-contained and calm work area.

     

     

  • The Top 10 Basements of 2026

    A basement is a bonus space for many homeowners. And what better use for extra room than something fun and entertaining? If you’re looking for ways to create a lively basement. You’ll find ideas for watching movies with the family, playing table tennis or pool, hosting a Scrabble match or even teeing off for a round of virtual golf.

     

    10. Textural Treat

    Wavy 3D wall panels add texture near an indoor pool in this luxe Toronto basement by Design Therapy. An eclectic mix of fabrics punches up a low-slung sectional sofa, while a circular coffee table picks up on the movement in the wall panels.

    9. Movie Night Meetup

    A projector and a large screen make this Boston-area basement the ultimate spot for family movie night. Pingpong and a foosball tables make it ideal for game night too. Jan Gleysteen Architects also worked in a kitchen and bar near the staircase.

    8. Laid-Back Lodge

    This beautiful lower level of a large Minnesota river lodge built by John Kraemer & Sons features a spacious open area with tight-weave carpet that supports a wealth of fun table games. Rich wood beams and other wood details give the space strong rustic style.

    7. Golfer’s Getaway

    In this Denver-area basement by Thomas Sattler Homes, the homeowners can virtually play 18 holes of golf. When they’re done, they can mosey over to a well-appointed bar for a cocktail or an Arnold Palmer.

    6. Light-and-Dark Lounge

    Veining in the quartz bar top inspired a dramatic color palette in this Naperville, Illinois, basement. Interior designer Christie Kenny pulled out charcoal and white to create sharp contrast and a cool lounge vibe. The long room contains three hangout areas: a seating area near a fireplace, a TV lounge and a kitchen.

    5. Welcoming Warmth

    One of the biggest basement design conundrums is whether to keep rafters, wires, pipes and ducts exposed or sacrifice ceiling height to cover them up. Design-build firm J.S. Brown & Co. kept the ceiling exposed in this Worthington, Ohio, basement and mitigated the raw look with a warm slatted-wood TV surround and a rich brown leather sectional, creating a welcoming living area.

    4. Fresh Feature Wall

    In this St. Michael, Minnesota, basement by construction2style, gray shiplap makes a large TV recede from view when not in use. Light wood floating shelves and media cabinets draw the eye away from the black rectangle too. A tall console table doubles as a bar, with stools for extra seating.

    3. Layered Lair

    Interior designer Erica Peale used a similar strategy with this Arlington, Virginia, basement media wall, done in a dark gray-blue. Layers of textures, including shiplap, jute, wood, leather, wool and chenille, cozy up the space and create a rich materials palette.

    2. Scrabble Space

    This Milwaukee basement by Deep River Partners includes a media room and an exercise room, but this spot for Scrabble in the middle of a gaming area drew a lot of attention. With its large Scrabble wall board and Scrabble tile-inspired pillows, this happy place gets a high score.

    1. Family Fun

    The Denver space, designed by Ejay Interiors, has a stylish conversation area, a beverage bar, a cozy reading nook under the stairs and a pingpong table.

  • The 10 Most Popular New Laundry Rooms So Far

    This countdown of the top new laundry rooms uploaded to Houzz so far in 2026 highlights how thoughtful design can elevate one of the home’s hardest-working spaces. Across a range of styles and layouts, these rooms combine smart storage, durable materials and efficient planning with color, pattern and personality. Explore the lineup for ideas on maximizing function while bringing fresh style to wash routines.

     

    10. Bold, Refined Red

    Cabinetry in a rich, sun-dried tomato red brings bold, tailored energy to this contemporary Houston laundry room by Flair Builders. The space features two sets of washers and dryers to keep loads moving without a bottleneck. On the right, a hardworking island has a generous folding surface and a base fitted with open drawers that double as convenient air-drying racks.

     

    9. Tailored English Style

    Set in the English town of Camberley, this laundry room by Higham Furniture draws on its pastoral surroundings with a soft, nature-inspired palette. Sage green cabinetry paired with antique brass hardware establishes a classic look, while wicker baskets and hampers introduce layered texture. Stacked appliances free up space for a sink, a drying rod and a practical folding counter, balancing charm with function.

    8. Composed Design Elements

    Pattern, paneling and refined millwork define this transitional Sunnyvale, California, laundry room by Baron Construction and Remodeling. A diamond-patterned floor, tongue-and-groove paneling and thin-rail Shaker-style cabinetry create a composed, tailored look. Function is prioritized with a sink, a drying rod and ample storage.

    7. Relaxed Farmhouse

    The Scandinavian farmhouse-inspired style of this West Bend, Wisconsin, lake house by Highland Builders carries through to the laundry room in the form of patterned wallpaper, a wood countertop and a woven shade. A wall-mounted drying rack tucks neatly against the wall when not in use, and a hamper on casters offers easy mobility throughout the space.

    6. Polished Utility

    Located in a coastal town in New South Wales, Australia, this laundry room by Lynda MacDonald Interior Design delivers kitchen-level polish with slatted navy cabinetry, a crosshatch-patterned gray tile backsplash, warm wood accents and large-format floor tile. The space is equally hardworking, featuring a pullout drying rack that disappears into the cabinetry when not in use, along with a sink, a long drying rod, ample storage and generous counter space.

     

    5. Big and Bold Botanicals

    Oversize floral wallpaper energizes this Traverse City, Michigan, laundry room by Kitchen Choreography. Hardworking cabinetry handles the utility side of the space with open cubbies for laundry baskets, plus drawers, cabinets and ample countertop and hanging space. An open shelving unit introduces display space for books and decor, helping the room feel as styled as it is functional

    4. Laundry in a Garden

    This Naples, Florida, laundry room by Daso Custom Cabinetry leans into a garden-inspired aesthetic with floral wallpaper, leafy green paint and flower-shaped ceiling lights. The layout is centered around a top-loading washer, with floating shelves above the appliances and a convenient countertop for folding beside them.

    3. Vintage Flair

    Tile wainscoting, leafy wallpaper, brass accents and a patterned Roman shade create a polished, traditional look in this Mercer Island, Washington, laundry room. Q Design Studio layered in high-functioning elements, including a wall-mounted vintage sink, a rolling hamper, abundant cabinetry and a long drying rod.

    2. Stylishly Stacked

    By stacking handsome navy appliances in this Larchmont, New York, laundry room, JWH Design and Cabinetry created space for a drying rod and an L-shaped countertop with an integrated sink. Crisp white cabinets brighten the palette and contrast with the navy appliances, while a warm wood floor grounds the design.

    1. Built for Pets

    This multifunctional entryway in Sacramento, California, serves as a mudroom, laundry room and pet-grooming zone. Design Shop Interiors incorporated a dedicated pet-washing station for easy, ergonomic bathing, while a farmhouse-inspired brick floor stands up to wet paws and everyday use.

  • The 10 Most Popular New Kitchens So Far in 2026

    White-and-wood kitchen palettes have been extremely popular for years. But you’ll find fresh ideas for creating the classic combination in this countdown of the most-saved new kitchen photos uploaded to Houzz so far this year. You’ll also find neat storage ideas, creative island designs and more inspiring features and details worth saving to your own ideabooks.

     

    1. Arches and Texture

    This Dallas kitchen by Le Belle Maison Interiors beautifully combines many of the design elements renovating homeowners are asking for today — and many featured in other photos in this countdown. They include a white-and-wood palette, a large island for entertaining and paneled appliances. A couple of other trending details to note in this kitchen are the zellige backsplash tiles and the arched doorway, the latter of which is echoed by the arched counter stool backs and dome-shaped island pendant lights.

     

    2. Simply Marbleous

    Remodeled by Broad Oaks Construction, this San Francisco kitchen features white upper cabinets paired with rift white oak lower cabinets with a clear stain. The two tones are bridged by a countertop and backsplash of Calacatta Paonazzo marble, which is prized for its bold golden, black and sometimes plum-colored veining. The back of the island has a reeded detail for extra visual interest and texture.

     

    3. Bit of Bling

    This Princeton, New Jersey, kitchen remodeled by The Home X has a limited palette of light wood, crisp white and shades of gray. But it’s full of luxe details. For example, an intricate backsplash composed of tiny tiles in a herringbone pattern stretches countertop to ceiling. Furniture-like legs support the island overhang. And delicate, cage-like chandeliers add opulent gold counterpoints to the cooler-toned and earthier elements.

     

    4. European Elegance

    Patrick and Meghan Sharp of Mister + Mrs Sharp and builder John Bynum created this sophisticated Atlanta kitchen, which has white oak cabinetry with a medium brown stain, glazed white terra-cotta backsplash tiles and a marble-look quartz countertop. Behind the range top, the quartz swoops up with a graceful curve to meet a European-style range hood supported by corbels. Additional regal accents include the counter stools’ velvety upholstery and burnished brass accents such as the double gooseneck spout faucet and pot filler.

     

    5. Window Dressing

    Reeded glass-front accent cabinets extend from countertop to ceiling in this rich wood-toned Philadelphia kitchen by Bella B Home Designs. Lights inside the cabinets illuminate the dishware and enhance the reed detail, while modern torch-like sconces draw attention to the gold-and-black detail on the shapely range hood and the dramatic veining in the stone backsplash.

     

    6. Spring Mix

    Filled with compelling contrasts and special details, this Orange County, California, kitchen was designed by Alicia Torosian, who uses Houzz Pro business software to manage her projects. Torosian paired earthy green cabinets with white quartzite countertops around the kitchen’s perimeter, extending the quartzite partway up the range wall. Above the quartzite, a thin whitewashed-brick backsplash runs up to the vaulted shiplap-covered ceiling. At the center of the room, a dark wood island has a black granite countertop embellished with an ogee edge.

     

    7. Architectural Intrigue

    A barrel ceiling with rich walnut paneling and cove lighting is a showstopper in this Sherwood, Oregon, kitchen. Created by Holly Moore, Stacey Miller and Matt McQueen of Lifetime Remodeling Systems, the kitchen also has a large arched window and a smaller circular window that give the room a unique look and frame the spectacular wooded views. The walnut ceiling detail coordinates with the window trim, walnut cabinetry and detail on the decorative range hood.

     

    8. Subtle Style

    The slatted detail on the range hood is a subtle, on-trend addition to this Los Angeles kitchen by general contracting firm New Vision Builders. Warm wood cabinets, paneled appliances and a shared countertop and backsplash material contribute to the room’s pared-back — but not plain — look.

     

    9. Herringbone and Hexagons

    A herringbone-pattern wood floor and hex-pattern backsplash add texture and geometric pattern to this white-and-wood Los Altos, California, kitchen by KNR Design Studio and Changras & Frey Construction. Sunshine pouring into the room through the skylight accentuates the backsplash tiles’ shape and sheen.

     

    10. Step on Up

    This Portland, Oregon, kitchen by Guggenheim Architecture + Design Studio has appealing clean lines, mixed wood tones, midcentury-modern-style elements, skinny Shaker cabinet fronts and rounded island corners. But a detail that makes it especially popular is the handy folding step stool, which fits into a narrow gap between cabinets.

  • Top 10 Inspiring Black Kitchen Cabinet Designs

    Ready to break those “black makes rooms feel smaller” design rules? Trust me, your kitchen is about to get a major glow-up!

    Black cabinets are totally having their moment, and they’re nothing like your grandma’s dark, dreary cupboards. From sleek matte finishes that laugh in the face of fingerprints to glossy surfaces that sparkle like your favorite party dress, these 23 styles will blow your mind.

     

    1.Modern Minimalist: Sleek Black Cabinets With Handle-Free Design

    That clean-lined look from your favorite minimalist coffee shop, but in your kitchen. Handle-free black cabinets create this floating effect that makes even tiny spaces feel twice as big—like wearing all black but for your kitchen.

    DIY Paint Transformation

    • Existing cabinet refresh: Benjamin Moore “Black Beauty” (2128-10) in matte finish for that velvety, fingerprint-hiding surface that looks custom
    • Wall pairing perfection: Sherwin Williams “Pure White” (SW 7005) on walls with Benjamin Moore “Iron Mountain” (2134-30) on the island for depth

    Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Open-concept lofts and modern homes.

     

    2.Industrial Chic: Matte Black Cabinets With Exposed Metal Hardware

    That loft-style kitchen you keep saving on Instagram? Totally achievable without the downtown price tag. Matte black cabinets paired with raw metal touches create that coffee shop aesthetic where exposed brick meets modern minimalism—basically your favorite brunch spot, but at home.

     

    DIY Paint Transformation

    • Cabinet refresh: Benjamin Moore “Black Beauty” (2128-10) in matte finish for that perfect charcoal-black depth without going too stark. Sand thoroughly and use a deglosser first.
    • Wall complement: Sherwin Williams “Iron Ore” (SW 7069) for an accent wall behind open shelving, paired with “Agreeable Gray” (SW 7029) on remaining walls for warmth.

    Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 3-4 weeks | Best For: Open-concept spaces with high ceilings

     

    3.Two-Tone Contrast: Black Lower Cabinets With White Upper Cabinets

     

    Like that perfect black dress paired with crisp white sneakers, this combination never goes out of style. Two-tone kitchens give you the grounding effect of black without the cave-like feeling, perfect for scrolling through recipes on your tablet while meal prepping.

     

    DIY Paint Transformation

    • Lower cabinet refresh: Transform existing lowers with Benjamin Moore “Black Beauty” (2128-10) in satin finish for durability and easy cleaning
    • Upper cabinet brightening: Paint uppers in Benjamin Moore “Simply White” (OC-117) for that Instagram-worthy brightness that makes dishes look amazing

    Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 3-4 weeks | Best For: Galley kitchens and homes with limited natural light

     

    4.Luxe Gold Accents: Black Cabinets With Brass Hardware and Fixtures

    That little black dress energy but for your kitchen—black cabinets with gold hardware is having its moment and for good reason. It’s giving luxury hotel vibes without the trust fund requirement. Like your favorite gold jewelry against a black sweater, this combo just works every single time.

     

    DIY Paint Transformation

    • Cabinet refresh: Benjamin Moore “Black Beauty 2128-10” in satin finish for that perfect not-too-shiny black. Sand, prime with Kilz, then two coats for professional results.
    • Wall magic: Sherwin Williams “Accessible Beige SW 7036” keeps things warm, or Clare Paint “Current Mood” for a sophisticated greige that makes brass pop.

    Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 3-4 weeks | Best For: Galley kitchens and compact spaces

     

    5.Scandinavian Inspired: Black Shaker Cabinets With Light Wood Countertops

    That minimalist coffee shop aesthetic you keep screenshotting? Black shaker cabinets paired with warm wood countertops nail it every time. It’s like wearing all black with camel accessories—sophisticated without trying too hard, and somehow makes your space feel bigger while looking more expensive.

     

    DIY Paint Transformation

    • Cabinet refresh: Benjamin Moore “Black Beauty 2128-10” in satin finish for lower cabinets only, keeping uppers in “White Dove OC-17” for that floating effect
    • Wall magic: Sherwin Williams “Accessible Beige SW 7036” on all walls—it’s the perfect warm neutral that makes black cabinets feel cozy, not cave-like

    Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Galley kitchens and narrow spaces.

     

    6.Bold Monochrome: All-Black Kitchen With Matching Appliances and Backsplash

    All-black kitchens are like that perfect little black dress—dramatic without trying too hard, sophisticated but never boring. This monochrome moment transforms your cooking space into the kind of kitchen where everything from meal prep to midnight snacks feels like a scene from a moody interior design show. It’s giving luxury hotel meets your favorite dimly-lit wine bar.

     

    DIY Paint Transformation

    • Cabinet refresh: Benjamin Moore “Black Beauty 2128-10” in satin finish for existing cabinets—sand, prime with Kilz adhesion primer, then two coats for that premium matte-black finish
    • Wall drama: Sherwin Williams “Tricorn Black SW 6258” on all walls, or go bold with Farrow & Ball “Pitch Black No. 256” for that velvety, light-absorbing effect

    Budget Range: $18,000-$30,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Modern lofts and contemporary homes.

     

    7.Farmhouse Fusion: Black Cabinets With White Subway Tile and Wood Beams

    That perfect farmhouse-meets-modern vibe you’ve been saving on your “Dream Kitchen” board? It’s basically the denim jacket of kitchen design—works with everything, never goes out of style. Black cabinets ground the space while white subway tiles and exposed beams keep it from feeling like a cave where you hide from your kids.

     

    DIY Paint Transformation

    • Cabinet refresh: Transform builder-grade cabinets with Benjamin Moore “Wrought Iron” (2124-10) or Sherwin Williams “Tricorn Black” (6258) in satin finish for that authentic not-too-shiny look
    • Perfect wall pairing: Benjamin Moore “White Dove” (OC-17) on walls with “Revere Pewter” (HC-172) on the island creates depth without the commitment of all-black everything

    Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Open floor plans with natural light.

     

    8.Contemporary Glass Front: Black Frame Cabinets With Glass Panel Inserts

    Black frame cabinets with glass inserts are basically the little black dress of kitchen design—sophisticated yet shows off what you’ve got inside. Like those gorgeous coffee shop displays that make you want to reorganize your entire pantry, this style turns your everyday dishes into decor. It’s the perfect middle ground between open shelving (dust nightmare) and solid doors (where things go to disappear forever).

     

    DIY Paint Transformation

    • Existing cabinet refresh: Paint frames with Benjamin Moore “Black Beauty” (2128-10) in semi-gloss for that factory-finish look. Replace center panels with glass from your local hardware store.
    • Wall color pairing: Sherwin Williams “Pure White” (SW 7005) for walls to make black frames pop, or “Agreeable Gray” (SW 7029) for a softer contrast that won’t compete with your displayed items.

    Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Galley kitchens and homes with curated dishware collections.

     

    9.Marble Elegance: Black Cabinets Paired With White Marble Countertops

    Like pairing your favorite little black dress with pearls, this combination never fails to impress. The contrast creates that expensive coffee shop aesthetic everyone’s trying to recreate at home. Your friends will assume you hired a designer when they see those stunning veining patterns against dramatic black surfaces.

     

    DIY Paint Transformation

    • Cabinet refresh: Transform existing cabinets with Benjamin Moore “Black Beauty” (2128-10) in satin finish for that perfect not-too-shiny look that hides fingerprints
    • Wall magic: Paint walls in Farrow & Ball “All White” (2005) with Benjamin Moore “Cloud Cover” (OC-25) on the ceiling to soften the contrast

    Budget Range: $18,000-$30,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Galley kitchens and traditional layouts.

     

    10.Warm Wood Combination: Black Cabinets With Natural Wood Island

    That coffee shop aesthetic where industrial meets cozy? This combo nails it. Black cabinets ground the space while a natural wood island becomes your kitchen’s conversation piece—like wearing all black with camel accessories. It’s the look that makes hosting feel effortless and your Stories look professionally styled.

     

    DIY Paint Transformation

    • Cabinet refresh: Transform existing cabinets with Benjamin Moore “Black Beauty 2128-10” in satin finish for that perfect not-too-glossy depth. Sand thoroughly and use a bonding primer first.
    • Island makeover: Strip and stain your island base with Minwax “Provincial 211” for authentic wood grain that reads expensive. Seal with matte polyurethane for durability.

    Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 3-4 weeks | Best For: Open-concept spaces with natural light.

     

    11.Art Deco Revival: Black Cabinets With Geometric Tile Patterns

    The Great Gatsby meets your morning latte—that’s the vibe when geometric tiles meet black cabinets. This style transforms your kitchen into that boutique hotel bathroom you screenshot on vacation, but actually livable. It’s structured enough to hide the chaos of weeknight dinners yet sophisticated enough for your book club’s wine nights.

     

    DIY Paint Transformation

    • Cabinet refresh: Benjamin Moore “Black Beauty 2128-10” in satin finish for lower cabinets, keeping uppers in “Simply White OC-117” to prevent cave vibes
    • Wall magic: Sherwin Williams “Tricorn Black SW 6258” for one accent wall behind open shelving, with remaining walls in “Alabaster SW 7008” for breathing room

    Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks |

    Best For: Galley kitchens and defined kitchen spaces.

  • 10 Common Kitchen Layout Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

    Choosing beautiful finishes and fixtures for your new kitchen is one thing, but if you get the layout wrong, it won’t function as well as you want it to. Design experts reveal the 10 most common layout errors that kitchen renovators make and what to do to avoid them.

     

    1. Inadequate Circulation Space

    Failing to allow enough circulation space can make a kitchen feel cramped and restrict the number of people who can comfortably use the space at the same time, says Jenefer Gordon, principal at interior design firm Eat Bathe Live. “It causes even more issues when your kitchen doubles as a thoroughfare. A lack of space can also make it difficult to open appliances such as the fridge and dishwasher,” she says.

    Solution:     To provide adequate circulation, try to have about 4 feet of space between kitchen countertops, Gordon says. Allow a little more room if there is a thoroughfare leading through the kitchen. “In a small kitchen, [39 inches] would be the minimum amount of space between countertops, but aim for more if you can,” she says.

     

    2. Not Planning Around the Workflow

    “A good kitchen workflow is essential. If you don’t have one, your kitchen will be inefficient, and you can end up running backwards and forwards between the different parts of your kitchen every time you cook, wash or prep,” Gordon says.

    Solution: In the planning stages, carefully consider how you use your kitchen, she says. She suggests increasing functionality by including storage for spices and oils near the cooking zone and storing cutlery and dishes near the dishwasher. “You’ll find many smart solutions on the market, including wide drawers and tailored inserts that facilitate high-functioning storage,” Gordon says.

     

    3. Not Measuring Appliances

    Lack of planning when it comes to appliances can lead to excessive protrusion from oversize refrigerators. “This can affect the ability to open cabinets and other appliances in your kitchen, and reduce circulation space,” Gordon says.

    Not measuring small appliances like microwaves, blenders and food processors can be an issue too. Without a proper home, they can end up sitting out on the counter and creating clutter, she says.

    Solution: Select appliances well in advance, checking the dimensions and the way appliances open to ensure that your kitchen layout can accommodate them in concealed, tailored storage, Gordon says. This also applies to pots and pans.

     

    4. Poor Lighting Placement

    If you don’t put the right light fixtures over your countertops, you will end up prepping, cooking and cleaning up in the shadows, says designer Naomi Findlay.
    “Another common lighting mistake is prioritizing aesthetics over functionality. Pretty pendants are beautiful, but if they don’t shine enough light over your work surfaces, they will not be practical,” she says.

    Solution: Findlay recommends positioning lighting slightly in front of you rather than directly overhead or behind you. Installing downlights, pendant lights and sconces on separate circuits makes it easier to control your lighting levels and atmosphere, she says. And don’t forget to choose bulbs that emit sufficient light, so you can see what you’re doing when you’re chopping and cooking.

     

    5. Forgetting About Function

    When planning your remodel, make sure you put your kitchen’s busiest areas — the sink, stove and fridge — in practical locations that are relevant to one another while allowing enough space for people to use and access them comfortably, Findlay says.

    When choosing cabinetry, make sure the doors won’t block your workflow when they’re open, she says. “The last thing you want is your fridge and cupboard doors banging into each other every time you open them!”

    Solution: Plan your kitchen layout as far in advance as possible, and choose your appliances before you start looking at cabinetry, Findlay says. “This will allow you to fit your units around your appliances, rather than the other way around, giving you a seamless look that’s both smart and space-efficient.”

    Tip: Think about how many people live in your home and will be using the kitchen at one time, she says. If it’s going to get crowded, you may have crammed too many elements into the kitchen layout and may want to consider scaling back.

     

    6. Wasted Space on a Kitchen Island

    Kitchen islands are great for increasing your prep and storage space but will work only if you have the room, Findlay says. If your kitchen is small, an island can be a waste of space.

    “Placing an island in the wrong spot is another recipe for disaster,” she says. “A poorly positioned island can obstruct the flow of traffic to and from the sink, refrigerator, stove and primary workstations, creating a bottleneck in your kitchen.”

    Solution: Choose an island only if your kitchen can accommodate it or specify a narrow one. Findlay suggests having about 40 inches on both sides of the island for good traffic flow. “Deciding how big or small your island unit should be will depend on what it needs to house and the proportions of your kitchen,” she says. “I would recommend a minimum width of [about 47 inches] for a kitchen island. But if you don’t plan on installing a sink or a stovetop in it, you could go as narrow as [about 24 inches] in width.”

     

    7. Inadequate Space Between the Sink and the Stove

    The area between the sink and the stove is the main food preparation area, so although there are no set guidelines, you’ll want a decent expanse of countertop space there, says Cherie Barber, owner of Renovating for Profit, which offers online instruction in remodeling.

    Solution: When planning your kitchen, make sure the layout meets the practical day-to-day needs of the kitchen user, she says.

     

    8. Poorly Positioned Cabinet Doors and Drawers

    Cabinet doors and drawers can end up blocking doorways and walkways when they’re opened, Barber warns.

    Solution: “Planning is key,” she says. “Before you commit to a layout, think about how and where all the elements in your kitchen will open, including cupboards, drawers, the fridge and dishwasher, and how people will move through the space.”

     

    9. Not Maximizing Vertical Wall Space

    In a small kitchen, every bit of space counts, and your walls offer valuable storage real estate, Barber says.

    Solution: “Taking your cupboards right up to the ceiling will maximize your storage potential in a compact kitchen,” she says. “If you don’t like the idea of rows of closed-door cupboards, you can always mix it up with open shelving.”

    Tip: If your wall cabinets are positioned over a cooktop, minimum clearance rules apply, Barber says. The minimum requirements can vary for electric and gas cooktops, and range from 2 to 3 feet, she says.

     

    10. Assuming You Need a New Layout

    “I’d never automatically dismiss the existing layout of a kitchen,” Barber says. “It’s often planned that way for very practical reasons, such as placement of doors and windows and the most logical traffic flow.”

    Solution: A tweak to the layout, such as making it open plan or adding a breakfast bar or an island, may be all that’s needed, she says. This can save money because you won’t have to move electrical and plumbing systems.

    “If you’re designing a kitchen layout from scratch, address the practical considerations first: How many people will be using the kitchen on a regular basis? Do you do a lot of entertaining?” she says. “This will help you work out the kitchen’s size and function.”

    Then consider how the work triangle — cooktop, sink and fridge — will best fit your layout, she says. Allow enough space between the three points of the triangle, so you’re not walking yards between them every time you use your kitchen.

  • Kitchen With Clever Storage in a 16th-Century Space

    The low, beamed ceiling in this room in a centuries-old English house presented a challenge for kitchen specialist Chisholm Design. The firm had been tasked with creating a kitchen here where there once was none. In doing so, they needed to incorporate plentiful storage without the space feeling cramped. This was especially important because the front of the home dates from the 18th or early 19th century, with high ceilings and big windows, and the back of the house, where the kitchen is located, is 16th century, with low ceilings.

    “There’s quite a mismatch in the feel of the house as you go through it, so it was important the spaces flowed together,” designer Joanna Chisholm says. She did this by keeping the kitchen light and open, so the low ceiling and reduced light is less apparent, and by building storage neatly into all the available space, including under the stairs and within the fireplace.

    Before: “The clients had recently bought the house and it was a complete mess — it didn’t have a kitchen in it when we first got there,” Chisholm says. “They had quite a lot of work to do to the building — part of the outside wall was collapsing.”

    They needed to level the floor, replace the windows, repoint some of the internal brickwork and replace the post in the middle of the room. “It wasn’t fit to hold up the house,” she says.

    After: The designers made sure they kept some of the original “wonkiness” of the room. “The clients were really keen that we retain as much of that as possible because they wanted it to feel like an old house,” Chisholm says.

    The team fitted a sturdy new oak pillar to replace the weak post and incorporated it into the end of the island to ensure they could still give the couple a good-sized breakfast bar.

    In addition to wanting to make the most of every inch in the kitchen, the homeowners requested a large island. “They do a lot of socializing so they wanted to be able to gather around the island and, because the dining table isn’t in the kitchen, they also needed to be able to sit there comfortably for meals,” Chisholm says.

    They also asked for a big sink so they could easily soak baking sheets and large pans, and plenty of food and dish storage as they were aware there wasn’t much room for wall cabinets.

    Keeping the space as light as possible was important. “It’s south-facing, but on a dull day there isn’t a huge amount of light coming in,” she says. Along with painting the walls and ceiling white, she’s chosen pale limestone for the flooring and a pale but — crucially — warm neutral for the perimeter cabinets.

    The island has been given definition with a gray-green paint. “The clients wanted the kitchen to feel calm and connected to the garden, which is why they opted for the green,” Chisholm says.

    Chisholm has left gaps between the new oak pillar and the quartz upstand that wraps around it because of the nature of the wood. “The oak is going to move over time, so we couldn’t put a bead of silicone around it as we usually would,” she says.

    To help compensate for the lack of wall units in the rest of the kitchen, Chisholm designed this bank of tall cabinets containing masses of storage.

    In the middle is a breakfast bar with drawers below. The bifold doors can be left open without getting in the way so the room can benefit from the interior lights.

    The tall cabinet on the left contains shelving for additional items such as serving dishes, while the cabinet on the right is a pantry with spice racks on the doors, roomy shelves and open drawers at the bottom.

    Before: The old staircase, to the right of where the tall cabinets are now, wasn’t functional. The floor needed to be lowered and the ceiling beams replaced on this side of the room.

    After: The staircase has been replaced. The cupboard at the back of the stairs is a larder refrigerator, which doesn’t contain an ice box. The freezer is in the laundry room, just seen inside the open door.

    It was a tight fit to get the tall appliance into the sloping space. “The builders often don’t put stairs in until quite late so we had to wait until they were properly in, then measure the angle and depth [of the space] to make sure we could physically get the [refrigerator] in before ordering it,” Chisholm says.

    The thickness of the floor tiles had to be taken into account too. “We’re mindful of buildup,” Chisholm says. “If a builder puts [an inch] on the wall or floor, for example, it can make a massive difference.”

    The brass ventilation grille above the door is a smart detail that works nicely with the beams.

    The oak wine rack was also a challenge. “We had to make sure the fridge didn’t heat up the bottles, so there’s some extra insulation in there,” Chisholm says.

    There are no radiators in here so the team laid underfloor heating beneath the limestone tile.

    Three black-and-brass pendant lights hang over the island. The electrical conduit running along the beam is actually white plastic, which was massively cheaper than a brass version. “The homeowner did a very clever job of getting it to look like brass by spray-painting it,” Chisholm says.

    In addition to the island pendants, there are discreet white flush spotlights dotted between some of the beams, as well as lighting within and below the glass wall cabinet, above the range and in all the tall cabinets.

    The double doors seen here lead into the dining room, which is more of a formal dining space.

    The island is large — 8 feet by 3⅓ feet — but Chisholm has softened it with curves. “I do think they make a difference,” she says. “[The clients] didn’t want lots of curves, but the one on the end of the sink run, for instance, is nice, because that’s a walkway into a study so it softens it. I think if it had been square, it might have been a bit harsh.”

    The open end of the tall unit is also curved, but Chisholm hasn’t gone overboard. “We don’t have them on the sides of the wall cupboard, for example, as you can over-curve things if you’re not careful,” she says.

    “The cabinets are our country Shaker design,” she says. “There’s a little bit of beading inside the frames just to give that more traditional look, which goes with the house.”

    Most of the day-to-day dishware, pans and flatware live in the island, while a wooden tray and two cutting boards have their own slots in the side. “They add a bit of warmth and tie in with beams,” Chisholm says.

    Chisholm has built in one upper cabinet, making the most of this little space. The unit is tucked right up against the beam, with the trim cut to fit.

    The cupboard doors are glass, so the room can benefit from the interior lighting “and it doesn’t feel as heavy as a solid door,” Chisholm says. “The glass is fluted so you can hide things a little that aren’t necessarily beautiful but still get the light.”

    The part-glass back door brings in extra light. The barn door style means the owners can open just the top half to prevent the dog from escaping.

    The 1½ bowl farmhouse sink by Thomas Denby is an unusual configuration, having a big 20-inch-wide bowl on one side, and a little 8-inch bowl on the other. “It’s the best of both worlds,” Chisholm says. “A double [farmhouse] sink tends to have two smallish bowls. The client was keen to have one where she could properly soak things.”

    The sink is flanked by a dishwasher and a cabinet for trash bins.

    The clients wanted a freestanding range cooker, which has multiple ovens, a grill and burners. “It fits with the house and also there wasn’t a lot of room to have ovens in a tall tower,” Chisholm says.

    She managed to make use of the original fireplace, but “it was very wonky. It was tricky to get an extractor [range hood] in without a lot of digging around in the ceiling, but the builder did a brilliant job of getting the ducting up, across the ceiling and out,” she says.

    The wood lintel and brickwork are original. “The clients were really keen on it not all being made straight and keeping its character,” Chisholm says. The antique mirror backsplash reflects the light and goes with the feel of the room.

    The cupboards on either side of the range are quite shallow as it’s such a deep fireplace, but they’re perfect for oils, herbs and spices. “They work really well there, otherwise the larder is quite far away at the other side of the kitchen,” Chisholm says.

    Chisholm has also made brilliant use of the space in the adjacent laundry-mudroom.

    On the mudroom side, ceiling-high cabinets, painted in the same color as the kitchen cabinets, hide a large Megaflo hot water cylinder, the boiler and a water softener. “There was a lot of plumbing to be thought about,” Chisholm says. Laundry rooms “can be tricky because of all the plumbing, and you can’t really measure until all that plumbing is in.”

    To the left are coat hooks and a bench with a drawer underneath for hats and gloves, as well as a cupboard for rain boots with baskets above.

    On the laundry side, there’s a tall freezer within easy reach of the kitchen, then a stacked washing machine and dryer, and storage for cleaning and laundry essentials. Chisholm also included a dog shower for after muddy walks.