The Tiniest Floral Powder Room Is Hidden Behind This Brownstone’s Kitchen Cabinets

The Tiny Cupboard is an underground performance venue located on the border of East Bushwick and Bed-Stuy in Brooklyn, New York. Founded by Amy Wong and Matt Rosenblum, it functions as an art studio, a comedy club, and features a rooftop space, all utilized for various performances and events. The venue is specifically highlighted as a speakeasy comedy club and a central hub for the open mic scene in NYC, catering to both aspiring and established comedians. The Tiny Cupboard hosts a wide array of shows daily, typically ranging from two to five stand-up comedy shows, in addition to numerous open mic opportunities each week. These events provide a platform for new comedians to launch their careers and for more experienced comics to perform. While the majority of the offerings are stand-up showcases featuring multiple comedians performing short sets, the venue occasionally diversifies its programming to include improv shows, sketch shows, and experimental comedy shows. There are also 'Headliner' series that feature well-known comedians performing longer 45-minute sets, and 'House Special' nights that combine house favorites with emerging talent. The venue emphasizes its affordability, with show tickets typically priced between $5 and $10, and notably, it does not impose drink minimums, making it an accessible option for enjoying comedy in New York City. Beyond live performances, The Tiny Cupboard also features podcast specials and workshops, further contributing to its role as a multifaceted creative space within the comedy community. Its location at 10 Cooper Street, Brooklyn, 11207, makes it a local fixture in the Bushwick area. Overall, The Tiny Cupboard positions itself as a dynamic and supportive environment for comedic talent, from those just starting out to professional acts. Its varied program schedule and commitment to affordability make it a significant spot in Brooklyn's entertainment landscape, particularly for live comedy enthusiasts looking for an authentic and intimate experience. #ComedyClub #Brooklyn #Bushwick #StandUpComedy #OpenMic #PerformanceVenue #NYCComedy #Entertainment #Speakeasy

Alison Roman, a writer, cook, and author, resides in a 670-square-foot, light-filled apartment in Brooklyn, two blocks from Prospect Park. Her design philosophy centers on surrounding herself with sentimental items, resulting in a minimalist aesthetic interspersed with color and natural accents. The home is notably filled with a variety of potted plants, reflecting Roman's intention to create a livable greenhouse. She emphasizes that her choice of low-light plants is crucial due to the limited natural light in her living room, and she has learned through trial and error to find suitable species. She sources her plants from local shops like Natty Garden, The Sill, and the Union Square Greenmarket. Roman approaches entertaining in her small space with a relaxed philosophy, preferring to call it "having people over" rather than "entertaining." This helps to create a comfortable and low-stakes atmosphere for her guests. Her solution for accommodating numerous guests in a compact area involves a stand-up dinner party style, where people can sit on the couch, the floor, or stand, a practice she notes no one seems to mind. The kitchen is a central and well-stocked area, filled with numerous culinary essentials, from various flours and salts to jars of honey and maple syrup. Despite the abundance, she frequently runs out of basic items such as black peppercorns, granulated sugar, olive oil, and paper towels. Maintaining organization in her kitchen, given the extensive collection of ingredients, is a challenge for Roman. She credits her friend, Emily Fleishaker, founder of KitchenFly, for assisting with organizing her kitchen, acknowledging her own struggles with staying organized amidst multiple ongoing projects. Her entry nook features an early 19th-century drafting table, purchased online six years prior. This piece serves as an oversized catchall for keys, mail, art, and books, with books cleverly displayed as wall art rather than stacked on a coffee table. Despite her concern that the drafting table no longer aligns with her current aesthetic, its sentimental value and initial cost prevent her from parting with it. Roman's home exudes a comfortable and airy aesthetic, which she sometimes describes as messy. Her bookshelf is organized in a "vaguely color-coordinated" manner, a system that aids her visually-inclined memory in locating books by their cover color rather than title. Her favorite spot in the apartment is her airy and bright bedroom, especially during spring, early summer, or fall. During these seasons, she enjoys opening all the windows, allowing sun and air to fill the room, and often works from bed, creating a feeling akin to staying in a hotel. Roman is currently working on a new book, starting a newsletter, and contributing to various publications, anticipating an exciting year ahead. #BrooklynApartment #SmallSpaceLiving #PlantDecor #HomeTours #MinimalistAesthetic #KitchenOrganization #EntertainingAtHome #AuthorHome #SentimentalDecor

Interior designer and serial renovator Hannah Pemberton undertook the ambitious project of overhauling a 2,700-square-foot Arts and Crafts-era home in Margate, England, a decision that initially met with skepticism from her peers. Despite the property being described as a "sad, tatty mess" when acquired four years prior, Pemberton and her husband, Matt, saw its potential, particularly its six bedrooms, which could accommodate their need for dedicated home offices. Matt claimed one bedroom, while Hannah set up her workspace off the kitchen. Pemberton's design philosophy centers on integrating form and function, particularly through innovative storage solutions that are both practical and aesthetically engaging. An example of this is the kitchen's daybed, designed for her 6-year-old son Felix, which is surrounded by pastel-colored shelves for books and toys, serving as a functional play and reading area. Adjacent to this space is a well-lit studio where Pemberton develops design concepts and stores her bicycle. Given the family's passion for cooking—Hannah previously owned a pop-up restaurant and authored a cookbook—a walk-in pantry was essential. The kitchen also features a distinctive orange island, which, though quirky, is balanced by the room's neutral palette, reflecting Pemberton's approach of adding "little winks" of color through accessories. The former garage was repurposed to create a bouclé-swathed banquette, offering a comfortable spot for meals and morning coffee with views of the garden. A notable design element in the house is the narrow powder room, which captivates visitors with its pink zellige tiles, coordinating concrete sink, and saffron-tinged walls. Pemberton strategically used the tiles to emphasize the room's elongated shape. The home's overall color scheme features warm tones of orange, pink, and beige, punctuated by green accents that acknowledge the nearby sea. Upstairs, the bedrooms are furnished with a blend of custom-designed pieces by Hannah, including plywood bedside tables and a dressing table in the primary bedroom. Her super-king bed is upholstered in a floral fabric intended for her website. She also created large, fringed lampshades inspired by mid-century designs, which became a successful product after she shared them on Instagram. Felix's room on the second floor incorporates a subtle shipwreck theme, with a sandy-toned ceiling, diverging from conventional nautical decor. This concept originated from a ship model acquired by her mother, an antiques dealer. The third-floor attic, after asbestos removal, revealed beautiful wood beams, inspiring a whimsical design featuring fabric adorned with peacocks, tigers, and horses for the bench seating, cushions, and blind, creating a cozy, cocoon-like atmosphere. Pemberton's comprehensive renovation, encompassing both interior and exterior enhancements, has garnered significant local appreciation, with passers-by frequently inquiring about the design. After three years of work, she successfully transformed the property, vindicating her initial vision despite the doubts of others. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #ArtsAndCrafts #CustomFurniture #ColorfulInteriors #StorageSolutions #KitchenDesign #PowderRoom #MargateHome

Small kitchens often come with a variety of frustrations, including limited counter space, compact ovens, and minimal storage. However, interior designers have developed numerous strategies to enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of these compact areas, making them feel more spacious and stylish. Extending cabinets to the ceiling, for instance, is a simple yet effective technique that creates the illusion of higher ceilings and a larger kitchen. Additionally, incorporating unique design details, such as beveled countertops, brass accents, or vintage hardware, can add visual interest and a personal touch without occupying much space. Budget-friendly upgrades can also significantly impact a small kitchen's appearance. Swapping out a dull paint color for a light and bright shade on cabinets instantly revitalizes the space, contributing to a more open and airy feel. The article showcases 70 small kitchen ideas from various design archives, demonstrating how clever design choices can transform a confined area. Examples include integrating above-cabinet decor, using bold cabinetry, and selecting double-duty accent pieces that offer both style and practicality. Innovative lighting solutions are also highlighted as a way to brighten and expand the visual footprint of a small kitchen. Several specific examples illustrate these principles. A pint-sized pink kitchen in Connecticut embraces vibrant color to create a playful and inviting atmosphere, while a color-blocked retro kitchen in a mid-century Maine home uses carefully matched paint to refresh its original charm. Jazzy wallpaper, as seen in a Manhattan apartment, proves that bold patterns can work effectively in small spaces, adding personality without overwhelming the area. In kitchens with high ceilings, tall shelves and cabinets draw the eye upwards, emphasizing vertical space, as demonstrated in a Viennese home. Dramatic pendant lights, like those in a Manhattan apartment, can serve as eye-catching focal points, adding elegance and depth. Backsplashes offer an often-overlooked opportunity for artistic expression; a Paris apartment features hand-painted tiles that add a unique touch to key-lime cabinets. Using surprising materials, such as blue marble in a Lisbon home's kitchen (originally a bathroom), can create a distinctive and memorable look. Monochrome palettes, exemplified by a Miami kitchen with calming creams and clean lines, promote a serene and expansive feel. Conversely, splashes of vibrant color, like those in a Harlem kitchen with green cabinets and red curtains, infuse energy and character into the space. For those seeking to minimize the kitchen's presence, brushed stainless steel cabinets that blend seamlessly into the background can make the area virtually disappear, as shown in a New York City house tour. Other practical and stylish solutions include skirting sinks to conceal plumbing, replacing cabinets with open shelving to reduce visual bulk, and incorporating portholes in pocket doors for a fashionable and functional element. Plant additions and all-black themes are also presented as ways to enhance a small kitchen's ambiance. The article also provides examples of eclectic designs that embrace unique elements, such as a jubilant kitchen nook with a hot-pink pie safe and a goat sculpture, or bold flooring that distracts from less appealing features. Cream-colored cabinetry and swirling marble create a classic yet contemporary feel, while custom islands with whimsical details offer both storage and visual interest. Smart storage solutions, like open shelving in a Victorian farmhouse, maximize practicality, and vibrant jewel-toned backsplashes can amplify airiness. Even tiny dining areas or specialized items like meat slicers can be integrated into small kitchens with thoughtful design, proving that size does not limit style or functionality. These diverse examples demonstrate that with creative planning, small kitchens can be transformed into highly functional and aesthetically pleasing areas within any home. #SmallKitchens #KitchenDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #SpaceSavingSolutions #Cabinetry #LightingDesign #ColorSchemes

Modern kitchen design is witnessing a notable shift, moving beyond the traditional open-plan concept to incorporate more functional and discreet cooking areas. While the kitchen remains a central showpiece in contemporary homes, there's a growing desire among homeowners to keep the actual cooking process and its associated messes out of sight. This trend is leading to a surge in kitchen remodels that cleverly partition spaces, effectively creating a 'tucked away kitchen' or, more commonly, a butler's pantry. The butler's pantry, evolving into what some are calling a 'mini kitchen,' is no longer a simple storage area. Instead, these enlarged pantries are being fully equipped with appliances, ample countertops, and extensive cabinetry. The purpose is to transfer the majority of meal preparation, cooking, and subsequent clean-up to this hidden zone, thereby preserving the pristine appearance of the main kitchen for entertaining and display. This design philosophy was prominently showcased at Homerama 2024 in Loveland, Ohio. In these show homes, luxurious main kitchens were strategically positioned as focal points, designed for aesthetic appeal rather than heavy-duty culinary work. Adjacent to these grand kitchens, often just behind a wall, were fully functional butler's pantries. These secondary spaces were outfitted with everything necessary for serious cooking, including additional appliances, generous food storage solutions, and secondary cooktops. The intentional separation allows for the main kitchen to maintain its role as an immaculate and stylish hub for social gatherings, free from the visual clutter and activity of food preparation. This evolving trend reflects a homeowner's preference for maintaining a sophisticated and clean aesthetic in their primary living and entertaining areas. By relocating the practical, and often messy, aspects of cooking to a dedicated, concealed space, modern home design addresses both the desire for a beautiful kitchen showpiece and the practical need for a functional cooking environment. #KitchenDesign #ButlerPantry #HomeRemodel #InteriorDesign #DesignTrends #HomeRama #Architecture

The article highlights common mistakes and best practices when decorating small living rooms, as advised by interior design experts. The core message revolves around avoiding elements that can make a small space feel even smaller, emphasizing the importance of intentional and strategic design choices. One key piece of advice concerns color palettes. While dark colors can create a cozy atmosphere, an excessive use of them, particularly without contrasting shades, can make a room appear confined and cold. Instead, designers recommend pairing dark colors with warm neutrals like beiges, browns, and creams to create a more open and inviting feel. This approach helps to balance the visual weight in the room and prevent it from feeling overwhelmed by dark hues. Another critical aspect discussed is furniture selection. Oversized furniture is a significant deterrent in small living rooms, as it can dominate the space and make it feel cramped. The experts advocate for a 'less is more' philosophy, urging individuals to choose furniture intentionally. Multipurpose pieces, such as storage ottomans or small sofa beds, are highly recommended. These items save space by serving dual functions, providing both seating or sleeping arrangements and valuable storage solutions, thereby optimizing the utility of a limited area. Art and decor also play a crucial role in shaping a room's perceived size. Large, overbearing art pieces are generally avoided in small living rooms because they can throw off the room's balance and overwhelm the visual space. A more effective strategy is to select smaller art pieces and arrange them in a gallery wall. This technique allows for a focal point without creating visual clutter. Similarly, excessive decor can make a small room feel even smaller. Designers suggest a mindful approach to decoration, selecting meaningful and versatile pieces that reflect personal style without adding unnecessary 'noise' to the room, encouraging decluttering and choosing items that bring joy. Lighting is another element that needs careful consideration. Sole reliance on overhead lighting is discouraged, as it can create harsh shadows and limit the ability to set different moods. Instead, layering various types of lighting—ambient, task, and accent—is recommended to add depth and flexibility to the room's atmosphere. This layered approach ensures that different areas of the room can be illuminated effectively, contributing to a more dynamic and welcoming environment. The absence of plants is also identified as a common oversight. Greenery brings vibrancy and color, making a space feel less sterile and more alive. Interior designers frequently incorporate indoor plants, including air-purifying varieties, to enhance the overall ambiance. For those with limited gardening skills, low-maintenance plants like snake plants are suggested. Finally, the article advises against using dark, heavy curtains, as they absorb light and make rooms appear smaller. Light-favoring materials such as cotton and linen are preferred, as they allow natural light to filter through, contributing to a brighter and more spacious feel. These strategic choices collectively aim to maximize the functionality and aesthetic appeal of small living rooms.

Architects Brian Messana and Toby O’Rorke of Messana O’Rorke transformed a 430-square-foot studio apartment in Greenwich Village into a multifunctional living space. The clients desired a pied-à-terre resembling a boutique hotel room, capable of accommodating cooking and entertaining, with the specific requirement of concealing the bed. The design objective was to maximize both the physical and atmospheric size of the singular space, enhance its storage capacity, and create multiple efficient experiences, drawing inspiration from objects such as jewel boxes, steamer trunks, and recreational vehicles. This project followed Messana O’Rorke's previous successful small Manhattan apartment transformations, demonstrating their expertise in reductivist sensibilities. The initial phase of the renovation involved stripping the apartment of all existing internal walls, plumbing fixtures, appliances, and finishes. This cleared the space, leaving only the eight-foot-tall ceilings and a band of west-facing windows that offer views of the Jefferson Market Library Clock Tower and the West Village. This created a blank canvas for the ambitious transformation. To address the concealed bedroom requirement, the designers introduced a "bedroom container." This jewel box-like unit features hinged wall panels clad in unlacquered brass, with its interior wrapped in gray-dyed Italian cowhide. The strategic placement of this cube, three feet from both the entry door and the north wall, effectively delineates an entry vestibule and hallway, optimizing the use of the compact footprint. The apartment’s material palette balances the bright gleam of the brass bedroom container with a predominantly timber finish. Wide-planked white oak floors contribute to this aesthetic, complemented by custom floor-to-ceiling cabinetry on the north and south walls. These cabinets, constructed from fumed and wire-brushed European oak, cleverly conceal the kitchen on the south side and an entertainment center on the north. Beyond their functional and aesthetic roles, these units also serve to dampen noise between adjacent apartments. Despite serving as a city getaway rather than a primary residence, the apartment incorporates ample storage solutions to maintain a visually uncluttered environment. The base of the bedroom container is elevated, providing long-term storage underneath. The custom-built cabinetry offers extensive space for clothing, books, and general storage. The bathroom, located near the entrance, is accessed via a smoke-gray mirrored door, which reflects the brass cube and adds to the illusion of space. Inside, the bathroom features slabs of Carrara marble and fixtures made from unlacquered brass, creating a contrast with the timber-lined living areas. The architects describe the project, named "The Jewel Box," as a study in space efficiency. It aims to create the illusion of a larger space through diverse experiences within a small New York City studio apartment. The success of this transformation was recognized with the 2019 NYCxDESIGN award in the small apartment category. #TinyHomes #StudioApartment #SpaceEfficiency #CustomCabinetry #InteriorDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #MinimalistDesign #BrassAccents #ManhattanRealEstate

Bri Emery of Design Love Fest collaborated with designer Heather Phillips Spaulding of Sunday Supper Club Creative to transform her kitchen in Pound Ridge, New York. Moving from Los Angeles, Emery sought to infuse her new East Coast home with a unique aesthetic, drawing inspiration from 1940s hand-painted furniture. The design process involved two distinct mood boards: "Kindred Spearmint" and "Friends for Clever." The chosen "Kindred Spearmint" provided a foundation of soothing greens, which was then creatively combined with candy-stripe edging and Art Deco-inspired curved shapes from the "Friends for Clever" concept, resulting in a playful yet sophisticated space. The renovation was not a complete demolition; instead, Spaulding focused on retaining and refreshing existing elements. Upper and lower cabinets were preserved and updated with a coat of Benjamin Moore’s 'Cucumber Salad' paint, imparting a fresh, minty-cool appearance. A new, sleeker corner cabinet was introduced to replace older, clunkier units, serving as an attractive display area for spirits. A significant design challenge involved a permanent structural post that originally divided the kitchen and dining room. Unable to remove it, Spaulding ingeniously integrated it into the design by covering it with the same Zia tile used for the backsplash. This approach allowed for the creation of open shelving that seamlessly extended into the dining room, with the curve formed by the post ingeniously converted into a functional spice rack. To balance vintage aesthetics with modern sensibilities, Spaulding incorporated elements such as retro-looking appliances, wood paneling, and hand-painted furniture. However, to prevent the space from appearing dated, she grounded the design with earthy tones and textures. This included terracotta floor tiles and a butcher block island countertop, complementing the kitchen's other surfaces made of Durat. Lighting was enhanced with two Huey Prairie pendant lamps above the counter, while a clean-lined dining table and velvet chairs in the adjacent dining area maintained a contemporary balance. The project, described as "a little risky" by Spaulding, ultimately paid off, creating a kitchen that is both unique and highly functional. The article also provides shopping recommendations for key elements of the design, including the Benjamin Moore paint, Anthropologie counter stools, a Big Chill refrigerator, and Zia tile. #KitchenDesign #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #BeforeAndAfter #CurvedStorage #MintCabinets #VintageInspired #DesignLoveFest #SundaySupperClubCreative

This blog post showcases how Georgia designer James Farmer transformed a 1,000-square-foot sporting cabin into a cozy, southern-inspired retreat, perfect for hosting guests. The design philosophy emphasizes maximizing light, playing with scale, highlighting architectural strengths, ensuring tonal cohesion, and creating multi-functional spaces, particularly a versatile screened porch. To maximize light and add practical charm in the kitchen, a table lamp is unexpectedly placed, complementing a large galvanized pendant light. This approach blends functionality with aesthetics, creating a welcoming and well-lit culinary space. The pendant light, specifically a galvanized warehouse cord-hung model, contributes to the rustic aesthetic while offering ample illumination. The article advocates for bold choices in small homes, suggesting that tall ceilings, large plant arrangements, and oversized light fixtures can have a significant impact. Designer James Farmer illustrates this by playing with scale to find the right balance, ensuring that these elements enhance rather than overwhelm the compact living area. This strategy helps to create an expansive feel within the limited footprint of the cabin. In the den, the 17-foot-high ceilings are accentuated by raising the mantel and incorporating a large tobacco basket for decorative emphasis. Paneling arranged on the diagonal further draws the eye upward, reinforcing the verticality of the space. This design choice highlights the cabin's architectural features and adds a distinctive Southern touch to the interior. A cohesive look is achieved in the bathroom by matching the gray-green vanity with the lower portion of the board-and-batten walls. This tonal consistency prevents the space from appearing fragmented. Additionally, "Z-back" detailing on the vanity adds rustic interest and character, aligning with the overall cabin aesthetic. The back porch is designed as a versatile space, functioning as both an extra den and a dining area. It features a custom swing that can also serve as a bed, accommodating large gatherings of up to 50 guests while offering views of the 90-acre surroundings. The porch is decorated with a vintage Coca-Cola sign, adding a touch of Americana. This multi-functional design makes the most of the outdoor living area. Further design tips from James Farmer include layering multiple patterns in a small room, like the porch, to create a cozy atmosphere, with stripes being a versatile pairing option. He suggests employing "relaxed" symmetry for mantels or side tables to maintain a casual feel. For darker rooms, he advises using pops of light blue to brighten the space and connect it with the cabin's interior color scheme. Lastly, he emphasizes the value of custom pieces, such as the bespoke porch swing, which maximizes space and can be sourced affordably from online artisans. #SouthernComfort #CabinDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #RusticDecor #HomeStyling #InteriorDesignTips #JamesFarmer #ScreenedPorch #FarmhouseStyle

This blog post details how professional organizer Shira Gill helped photographer and freelance content producer Zoe Ching overhaul her kitchen pantry and bathroom vanity drawer using affordable dividers. Ching, despite a recent renovation of her Portland, Oregon, Craftsman bungalow in 2018, found herself struggling with excessive clutter and inefficient storage, with items overflowing into her garage. The pantry organization began with emptying all contents onto the kitchen island. Expired items were discarded, leaving only regularly used goods like Asian sauces and Fly by Jing tasting packs. Gill then applied a "supermarket manager" approach, merchandising the space by placing opened snacks in front and surplus items behind them for easy rotation. Tall oils and sauces were neatly arranged on bamboo lazy Susans, while most other items were placed in deep dividers, many costing as little as $5 from the Container Store. Ching also repurposed old glass jars for dried fruit. This systematic approach transformed the pantry, making cooking and spending time in the kitchen a more pleasant experience. Following the pantry makeover, Gill and Ching addressed the bathroom vanity drawer, a persistent pain point for Ching due to difficulty locating daily-use items. Instead of sorting by product category, they focused on separating frequently used items such as deodorant, lip gloss, and mascara from back-stock products. These daily essentials were then dedicated to a single top drawer in the vanity. During this process, Ching discarded expired products and donated duplicates to friends, further streamlining her collection. An additional "treat-yourself" item, a face mask, was included in the drawer to encourage regular use. To organize the vanity drawer, they utilized leftover drawer dividers from the kitchen project. These long containers proved effective in preventing tubes of cream and sharp tweezers from rolling around, maintaining order within the drawer. Ching expressed that this new system served as a catalyst, inspiring her to organize the rest of her bathroom and significantly improving her daily routine, making it more relaxed. The article highlights the effectiveness of simple, affordable organizational tools and a systematic approach in transforming cluttered spaces into functional and enjoyable areas. #HomeOrganization #PantryOrganization #BathroomVanity #StorageSolutions #ProfessionalOrganizer #SmallSpaceLiving #DIYHome #ContainerStore #AffordableDecor

After 12 years of renting, Tali Magal and her husband, Craig Fleishman, purchased a two-bedroom apartment in Brooklyn. With twin 6-year-old daughters, Amalia and Gabriela (Mali and Gigi), Magal sought a dedicated play area, beyond the shared bedroom. Initially, she envisioned transforming a vintage armoire to store art supplies and toys, allowing for easy cleanup by simply closing the doors. However, her close friend and designer, John Rawlins, offered an alternative that maximized space and versatility. Rawlins identified two empty walls between the bathroom and laundry room as prime real estate. Instead of introducing an additional furniture piece, he proposed building directly into these walls, utilizing previously unused square footage. This concept led to the creation of a highly adaptable, Narnia-esque cabinet system, designed to serve multiple functions from imaginative play to academic tasks. The resulting built-in unit offered a seamless aesthetic when closed, appearing as a continuous backdrop to the living and dining areas. The full potential of this creative storage system became evident when the girls began Zoom kindergarten. The cabinets seamlessly transformed into a functional homeschooling setup, providing a dedicated space for learning. To facilitate smooth transitions between a streamlined appearance and a fully engaged kids' zone, Rawlins designed the cabinet doors to tuck away along the side walls when open, ensuring an unobstructed walkway. The uniform wood choice for the cabinet fronts and adjacent room doors created a cohesive, integrated look. Magal noted that the ability to close off the children's activity area at the end of the day offered a significant advantage over a traditional playroom. This feature allowed the family to "shut the chaos away," creating a clear separation between work and play, which proved particularly valuable during the pandemic for establishing a sense of relaxation and unwinding for the family. The design fostered a sense of calm and order within the home. Furthermore, the design unintentionally provided the girls with independent work areas, fostering a sense of autonomy during their daily classroom sessions. When open, the individual spaces within the cabinets created a learning "cocoon," further enhanced by noise-canceling headphones. Magal emphasized the importance of allowing the sisters to personalize their stations, fostering a sense of pride and ownership. Mali, described as meticulously organized, arranged her wall-mounted storage for school supplies, while Gigi, an artist, adorned her space with drawings and utilized an alphabet display above her desk for letter learning. This personalization encouraged individuality despite their shared living arrangements. The system's original function as a storage solution for children's supplies remains active. Extra shelves positioned above both cabinet sections accommodate toys, crafts, and general household overflow. The desks themselves are adjustable shelves, designed to adapt to the girls' growth, allowing for height adjustments as they get taller. From the twins' perspective, these new desks symbolize a step towards maturity; Gigi, for instance, takes pride in independently managing her mute and unmute functions during Zoom classes, highlighting the practical and developmental benefits of their personalized learning environment. #KidsRoomDesign #SpaceSavingSolutions #HiddenStorage #CustomCabinetry #HomeschoolingSetup #ChildrensPlayArea #BrooklynApartment #InteriorDesign #OrganizationalTips

This article offers a curated selection of nine makeup vanities specifically designed for small bedrooms and limited spaces. It highlights various styles, including rattan, boho, and modern, and emphasizes the importance of storage capacity and lighting in these compact units. The article aims to help individuals create a dedicated and functional beauty space, even in tight living conditions, moving beyond makeshift solutions like using a dining table. Each vanity presented includes detailed product descriptions, such as dimensions, materials, colors, and whether a matching stool is included. Customer reviews are incorporated to provide real-world insights into the products' sturdiness, ease of assembly, and overall appeal. For example, the Urban Outfitters Caroline Rattan Mirror Vanity is praised for its chic appearance and visual airiness, while the Wrought Studio Iesa Boho Natural Rattan Vanity is noted for its four drawers, cubbies, and LED mirror. The YOURLITE Makeup Vanity Table Set is highlighted for its compact two-foot width, three drawers, shelf, comfy stool, and customizable three-tone lighting options, all offered at an accessible price point. Further recommendations include the Pottery Barn Teen Slim Get-Ready Beauty Station, a floating vanity with gold hardware and six compartments, featuring a cord cutout for organization. The Wade Logan Audryanna Vanity is presented as an ideal corner solution, offering ribbed glass cabinets, a cloth storage bag, a tri-fold LED mirror with three light settings, and convenient wireless charging and USB ports. The VIVOHOME Vanity Set is described as a sleek option with two small and one large drawer, offering three LED light colors. The CHARMAID Vanity Set is noted for its compact width and padded stool, while the Safavieh Sasharose Vanity Table provides a simple, elegant walnut-finished tabletop for those who prefer to accessorize independently. Lastly, the Polifurniture Linden Modern Vanity Table, slightly larger but offering extensive storage with smooth-gliding drawers, is suggested for those with a bit more wall space. The article concludes with a comprehensive guide on how to select the best small-space makeup vanity. Key considerations include meticulously measuring the available space to ensure a perfect fit, assessing the storage needs based on the amount of makeup and accessories, and prioritizing adequate lighting, such as built-in mirror lights with touch-screen activation, for optimal makeup application. #SmallSpaceVanities #MakeupVanity #BedroomFurniture #HomeDecor #CompactLiving #StorageSolutions #InteriorDesign #BeautySpace #FurnitureReview

The author shares their experience of transforming a dated rental kitchen without undertaking major renovations. Having previously enjoyed a custom-designed kitchen in a former 'forever home', they found themselves in a new rental with an aesthetically unappealing kitchen featuring faded off-white cabinets and a water-damaged wooden countertop. Despite its functional adequacy, the kitchen's appearance was a source of discontent, and being a rental, options for repainting or replacing fixtures were unavailable due to lease restrictions and potential damage to existing paintwork. This limitation prompted a search for simple, non-invasive solutions to improve the kitchen's visual appeal. The breakthrough came with the introduction of houseplants placed on the kitchen countertop. Initially, this idea went against the author's long-held belief that clear countertops contribute to a brighter, more inviting kitchen space. However, expert advice from designers like Lara Bates of Laraetal and architect Ben Allen supported the use of greenery to soften a room and introduce an organic element that diverts attention from less attractive features. Lara Bates emphasized that displaying objects, particularly plants, can make a kitchen feel less purely functional, while Ben Allen highlighted the biophilic benefits, including defining spaces, adding color accents, and creating interesting light patterns and shadows, all of which contribute to a sense of well-being. The author specifically chose ferns for their delicate leaf patterns and ability to thrive in low-light conditions, positioning them along the back of the countertop away from direct heat sources like the cooker. The addition of six ferns significantly transformed the space, drawing the eye away from the yellowing cabinet doors and creating a focal point of life and natural beauty. This simple change shifted the author's perception, making them focus more on nurturing the plants than on the kitchen's dated aspects. Lisa Eldred Steinkopf, known as The Houseplant Guru, offered further suggestions for plant choices and considerations. She recommended using grow lights under cabinets for a wider variety of plants, noting that modern LED strip lights and puck lights are available as chic decor options. For those without dedicated grow lights, she suggested plants like marimo balls, peperomias, and aglaonemas, which tolerate lower light conditions. She also stressed the importance of not letting ferns dry out. Steinkopf herself maintains a vibrant collection of blooming African violets, ferns, air plants, and shamrocks on her countertops, underscoring the versatility of plants in kitchen decor. Ultimately, the plant-based solution proved to be an effective and portable way to update the rental kitchen's aesthetic. The author emphasized that the key is not to overcrowd the space, ensuring enough room for practical activities like cooking. This approach demonstrates how small, thoughtful additions can significantly enhance the ambiance of a living space, even when faced with the constraints of a rental property, by leveraging the natural beauty and calming presence of plants. #InteriorDesign #RentalKitchen #Houseplants #KitchenDecor #HomeImprovement #BiophilicDesign #SmallSpaceSolutions

This article presents a curated list of 20 top makeup vanity options designed to cater to various styles, budgets, and spatial needs. It aims to assist individuals in selecting a functional and aesthetically pleasing vanity, whether they require a dedicated space for grooming, enhanced storage for cosmetics, or simply a luxurious addition to their routine. The selection process involved extensive research into product ratings and customer reviews to identify standout options across different categories. The article highlights vanities that offer features such as integrated lighting, ample storage solutions, comfortable seating, and designs that complement diverse interior aesthetics. Featured vanities include the Vabches Makeup Vanity with Lights, lauded as the 'best DIY vanity' for its customizable nature and comprehensive features like a power strip, lights, mirror, shelving, drawers, and hair tool holders, all at an accessible price point. For those seeking a specific aesthetic, the Farmhouse Makeup Vanity is presented as the 'best farmhouse style vanity,' offering extensive storage, a sliding mirror with three light modes, and a glass top for visible storage, available in multiple finishes and sizes. For younger users, the Roundhill Furniture Moniya Wood Vanity Table and Stool Set is recommended as the 'best for kids and tweens,' praised for its compact size, three drawers, built-in mirror, and included stool, making it suitable for smaller rooms and budget-conscious buyers. The Linon Home Decor Vanity Set with Stool and Mirrored Accents is highlighted as the 'best vanity with fold-away mirror,' offering dual functionality as a desk or nightstand with hidden storage and a fold-up mirror. This model also features a drawer-front cabinet for larger hair tools. The article addresses the need for masculine-styled vanities with the Vabches Makeup Vanity, available in black and white with a wood-grain pattern, offering significant storage through cabinets, drawers, and open shelving, along with a stool that includes additional storage. For budget-conscious consumers, the Irontar Makeup Vanity Table is introduced as the 'best budget vanity,' providing essentials such as an adjustable lit mirror, a large drawer, and a side outlet with a USB port at a low price point. Small spaces are catered for by the ARTETHYS Small Vanity, a compact unit under 20 inches wide that integrates two drawers, a stool with storage, open shelving, and a lit mirror with adjustable brightness, alongside a fold-out top for temporary extra workspace. The Latitude Run Vanity is showcased for its 'extra-large mirror,' spanning 43.8 inches with three lighting effects and brightness options, complemented by seven drawers and a storage stool. The Mercer41 Gerboth Vanity Set is presented as the 'best makeup vanity/nightstand duo,' combining a unique design with a slightly lowered chest of three adjustable drawers, a sliding lit mirror revealing shelf storage, and a velvet-cushioned stool, ideal for tight spaces. The Mercury Row® Rowell Vanity Table Set is suggested for a 'minimalist style,' featuring two large hidden drawers, a clean aesthetic, and a lit mirror without upper shelving. The Ivy Bronx Chariss Vanity is recommended as the 'best vanity with a corner setup,' maximizing functionality in limited spaces with cabinets, hanging storage, a tri-fold mirror, and a USB port. Further options include the Likein Vanity Desk for 'best budget vanity with storage,' providing extensive storage with five drawers, open shelving, and a large trifold lit mirror. The MSmask Rustic Vanity is highlighted for its 'rustic-style,' offering a lit mirror, ample storage, and an outlet in a non-glamorous design. The Linon Home Decor Kylie 2-Piece Vanity Set provides a 'French-country style' with arched supports and woodworking details, functioning also as a desk or nightstand. For a 'glam-style vanity,' the Furniture of America 2-Piece Vanity and Stool Set features a glass top, faux-fur stool, and gold hardware. The Linon Home Decor Clarisse 2-Piece Dark Metal Vanity Set is noted as the 'best metal vanity,' offering a compact, well-built design without hidden storage or lit mirrors. The Anthropologie Scroll Vine Inlay Vanity Table is featured as a 'handmade vanity' with a unique bone inlay pattern and deep drawers. The Adair Ultimate Vanity emphasizes 'efficient storage space' with multiple drawer types, a fold-up mirror with storage, and a jewelry compartment. Finally, the Sarah Sherman Samuel Knob Desk & Vanity is presented for its 'modern-style vanity' with a sleek drawer and circular mirror, while the West Elm Mid-Century Vanity Desk Set embodies 'mid-century style' with clean lines, angled legs, and five drawers. #MakeupVanity #HomeDecor #StorageSolutions #InteriorDesign #FurnitureSelection #DIYHome #FarmhouseStyle #SmallSpaceSolutions #BudgetFriendly #ModernDesign

This article provides a curated list of six kitchen storage cabinets specifically chosen to help organize small kitchen spaces. The selection emphasizes maximizing storage and functionality without the need for built-in cabinetry, making these solutions versatile for various kitchen layouts. Each cabinet is described in detail, highlighting its unique features, benefits, and potential drawbacks, drawing on expert advice and customer reviews. The first featured item, the Lark Manor Aralene Kitchen Pantry, is lauded as the "Best Overall" due to its vertical design. Standing 72 inches tall, this slim cabinet includes adjustable shelves, a large drawer, and four cupboard cabinets, with the added functionality of serving as a microwave stand or baker's rack. Reviewers praise its effectiveness in adding significant storage to small kitchens, making it a highly practical choice for those with limited space. For those needing to save even more space, the Homecho Wide Kitchen Pantry is presented as the "Best Space Saver." This compact unit offers a drawer, a microwave shelf, two cupboards (one with a glass door), and a usable countertop. Its water-resistant material ensures easy cleaning, and its affordability makes it an attractive option. Despite its small size, it is highlighted for its comprehensive storage capabilities and ease of assembly. The Andover Mills Prado Solid Kitchen Cart is identified as the "Best Moveable" option. This narrow, solid wood rolling island is less than 30 inches wide, featuring an adjustable interior shelf, a utensil drawer, and a side towel rack. Its locking wheels allow for flexible placement, and its sturdy construction is a frequently cited positive. The article notes its ease of assembly and its utility as a compact kitchen island. The Swanscombe Kitchen Pantry is showcased as the "Best Splurge," featuring a classy paneled design and extra height. It includes two large cabinets with adjustable shelves and a drawer, providing ample storage. Its durability, attractive antique brushed nickel hardware, and availability in multiple colors contribute to its premium appeal, despite its higher price point. Customer testimonials confirm its aesthetic appeal and functionality for concealing appliances and cookware. The Homestyles Mobile Kitchen Island is recommended as the "Best Kitchen Island." This island cart is designed with aesthetics and functionality in mind, incorporating a spice rack on one side, a towel rack on the other, and generous cupboard and drawer space. A notable feature is its drop-leaf top, which provides additional dining or workspace. Its quality and clear assembly instructions are highlighted by satisfied customers. Finally, the Function Home Farmer’s Pantry Cabinet is recognized as the "Best Value." This freestanding pantry excels in storage capacity, opening to reveal six height-adjustable shelves and an additional six smaller shelves on each of its two doors, totaling 18 shelves. This design maximizes vertical storage for dry goods and pantry items, offering a highly affordable and effective solution for decluttering kitchens. Its multiple color options and easy assembly further enhance its value proposition. #KitchenStorage #SmallSpaces #HomeOrganization #PantryCabinets #KitchenIslands #SpaceSavingSolutions #HomeDecor #Cabinetry