'Why didn't someone stop me?': Woman reveals the 'worst' design choice she made in her home

A recent TikTok video showcasing a woman's attempt to create a Scandinavian-style kitchen has garnered nearly 40 million views, sparking widespread discussion and criticism online. The video, posted by TikTok user @nicolelilyholmes, depicts a kitchen where all cabinet doors have been removed in an effort to achieve the minimalist, uncluttered aesthetic often associated with Scandinavian design. The Scandinavian kitchen aesthetic typically features neutral tones, light wood elements, and an overall minimalistic, uncluttered appearance. Open shelving is a common characteristic, which many TikTok users have tried to replicate by simply removing their cabinet doors to avoid a full remodel. Examples of successful Scandinavian kitchen designs by other TikTokers often show neatly arranged dishes and a cohesive look. However, @nicolelilyholmes's interpretation has been met with significant backlash from viewers and professional designers alike. The video reveals a kitchen with a large quantity of dishware, cleaning supplies, and other household items openly displayed on shelves and countertops, leading to a cluttered and disorganized appearance. Critics have pointed out that while the kitchen does incorporate light tones and natural wood, it largely misses the mark on the essential minimalism and orderliness of true Scandinavian design. The open display of cleaning products has also raised concerns about safety, particularly for households with children. Comments on the viral video range from expressions of being "overstimulated" and "overwhelmed" by the visual clutter to outright "rage bait." Many professional designers commented, urging her to reinstall the cabinet doors, emphasizing that her kitchen represents the antithesis of the Scandinavian aesthetic. One commenter, identifying as Norwegian, explicitly stated that authentic Scandinavian kitchens do not look like the one presented, highlighting the impracticality of having dishes exposed to dust. Despite the strong negative reactions, some viewers have suggested that the video might be an intentional joke or a form of "rage bait," given the exaggerated nature of the clutter. Others speculated that the cabinet doors might have been removed for painting or another renovation purpose, and the video was posted humorously. The TikToker herself has hinted in other videos that the initial post might have been a troll. Regardless of intent, the video has successfully ignited a viral conversation about interior design trends and the practicalities of maintaining a specific aesthetic. #ScandinavianDesign #KitchenRemodel #InteriorDesignFail #TikTokTrends #HomeDecor #ViralContent #MinimalistDesign #OpenShelving

Home renovation and design expert Christina Haack, known for her shows 'Christina on the Coast' and 'The Flip Off,' has identified a significant kitchen layout mistake that she believes can negatively impact a home's resale value and overall aesthetic: having the front door open directly into the kitchen. Haack emphasizes that the kitchen is often considered the heart of the home and the most crucial room for potential buyers, making its design and placement paramount. Haack's primary concern with a front-door-to-kitchen layout is the immediate impression it creates upon entering a home. She argues that this arrangement can make the space feel less inviting and even chaotic, especially if the kitchen is not perfectly tidy. Beyond the visual impact, she also points out practical drawbacks, such as strong cooking odors immediately greeting guests as they enter, which can set an undesirable tone for the entire house. She advises that kitchens should ideally have their own distinct space, separate from the immediate entry point, to provide a more organized and welcoming environment. In an episode of 'The Flip Off,' Haack demonstrated her design philosophy by removing constricting walls in a home and relocating the kitchen. This strategic move allowed her to expand the kitchen's footprint, creating a more spacious area for food preparation and dining. Her design goal was to achieve a 'classic design with a pop,' aiming for a kitchen that felt earthy, elegant, and inviting simultaneously. The final design featured white oak cabinets, a high-end stove, a large island, and a porcelain backsplash, illustrating her vision for a well-designed and strategically placed kitchen. Haack's perspective aligns with that of other design experts. Three professionals interviewed by 'Homes and Gardens' also highlighted the critical role of kitchen layout and design in influencing a home's value and the cooking experience. Designer Tom Howley, for instance, suggested viewing open-plan spaces as a cohesive whole with multiple zones, dedicating specific areas for cooking, dining, lounging, and even compact office spaces. This zoning approach is crucial for creating flexible and functional spaces that cater to various lifestyle needs. Haack further reinforces her design philosophy by noting that her own updated kitchen, featuring black oak cabinets and white marble countertops, is not positioned directly by the front door. This personal choice underscores her belief in the importance of kitchen placement for both functionality and aesthetic appeal, aiming to balance family-friendly utility with high-end design elements. Her insights offer valuable advice for homeowners considering kitchen remodels or looking to enhance their home's resale potential. #ChristinaHaack #KitchenDesign #HomeRenovation #ResaleValue #HGTV #InteriorDesign #TheFlipOff #ChristinaOnTheCoast #HouseBeautiful

Interior decorator Sarah Lederman chose to embrace the original segregated layout of her Emery Roth–designed prewar apartment in Manhattan’s Upper West Side, despite advice to open up the floorplan. She shares the space with her husband, Evan, their two daughters, Gemma (5) and Isabel (2), and their goldendoodle, Ziggy. The defining feature of the apartment is its extra-large hallway, which Lederman views as a highly functional and versatile space. This hallway is not merely a transitional area but a central hub for family activities, accommodating everything from children's relay races and scooting to serving as a staging area for large dinner parties and storage for a stroller and dog leashes. Lederman consciously resisted modernizing the apartment by creating a single, open-plan living space, preferring the distinct separation of rooms, including the dining room, sitting room, and three bedrooms. Lederman's design philosophy centers on integrating new pieces with existing architectural elements and vintage finds. She furnished the hallway with a petite vintage slipcovered sofa, ideal for her daughters to put on their shoes, and a shallow console table. Her approach to decorating the apartment involved leaning into its inherent character rather than undertaking a complete overhaul. For instance, in the sitting room, she preserved the original paneling, painting it with a distinctive chalky paint. The existing built-in bifold doors were cleverly utilized to conceal the television, maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. The sitting room blends traditional elements, like a roll-arm sofa, with mid-century pieces she has collected over time, such as a travertine coffee table and Danish accent chairs. Contemporary art from the Sears-Peyton Gallery further enriches the space, embodying her belief that a classic base allows for diverse layering of styles. The dining room, a new addition for Lederman, became an opportunity for a bold design statement. She selected a vibrant English garden-style wallpaper and paired it with colorful modern artworks, creating a balance between traditional and surprising twists that reflects her personal style. The bathrooms, being nearly a century old, required more extensive renovation. In the girls' bathroom, which also functions as a guest powder room, Lederman aimed to create a luxurious yet child-friendly 'jewel-box moment.' This was achieved through dimmable wall sconces for ambient lighting and a textured shower curtain designed to hide bath toys. Custom Tabarka tiles, unlacquered brass fixtures, and travertine stone contribute to a sophisticated feel that still appeals to children. For the primary suite, Lederman replaced the rarely used bathtub with a spacious double shower, incorporating a wide bench. She continued the use of warm travertine over marble to foster a tranquil, hammam-like atmosphere. Her choice of Fireclay's fish-scale tiles in three neutral tones, meticulously arranged using a computer program to avoid repetitive patterns, ensures a perfectly randomized and aesthetically pleasing design. The bedroom itself maintains a serene ambiance, highlighted by her favorite piece, a wavy-edged dresser acquired through an eBay alert after years of searching. Lederman's dedication to sourcing unique items extends to her custom bedside lamps, which resulted from a collaboration with ceramicist John Born, inspired by his Instagram work. The children's bedrooms are characterized by playful patterns. Gemma's room, which doubles as a playroom, features gingham wallpaper framed by picture moldings. Isabel's smaller room, despite its structural challenges like steam pipes and air vents, was transformed into a 'Where the Wild Things Are' setting using scenic wallpaper. Both rooms are designed with plexiglass ledges and cubbyholes for toys and books, ensuring the beautiful wall coverings remain a focal point. Lederman emphasizes that the apartment is a lived-in family home where children are encouraged to play freely throughout, including the grand hallway, reinforcing that "nothing is off-limits." #InteriorDesign #PrewarApartment #ManhattanHome #HomeTours #EclecticDecor #FamilyFriendlyDesign #VintageFinds #RoomDesign #RenovationIdeas

This blog post compiles 21 examples of unusual and impractical home design choices that have circulated online, primarily from Reddit's r/CrappyDesign community. The selections highlight various architectural and interior design decisions that appear illogical, inconvenient, or aesthetically questionable. Each example is presented with an image and a brief descriptive title, often emphasizing the peculiar nature of the design. The featured design failures include a bed precariously positioned over a staircase, creating a potential safety hazard and an odd spatial arrangement. Another image showcases spiral stairs that appear steep and difficult to navigate, raising concerns about functionality and accessibility. A prominent example is a support beam installed diagonally across a kitchen, severely obstructing the space and demonstrating a clear lack of foresight in structural integration. Similarly, a security door resembling a ladder is presented, which undermines its intended security purpose by offering an easy climbing route. Bathroom designs are a recurring theme, with examples such as a disturbing transparent toilet seat, green carpeting throughout a bathroom (a choice often criticized for hygiene and maintenance), a bathroom entirely lacking doors, and a four-poster tub carpeted around its base, combining elements that are generally considered impractical and unsanitary. Kitchens also feature prominently, including a sink that protrudes significantly into the main walkway, an oddly placed dishwasher in a corner that impedes cabinet access, a kitchen space that tapers to an impractical point, and another instance of carpeting in a kitchen, which is generally avoided due to spills and cleaning difficulties. Staircase anomalies are further illustrated by a setup where stairs directly block a doorway, a staircase with mismatched step sizes and an awkward junction, and a set of stairs designed in a way that appears prone to causing trips and ankle injuries. Even smaller details are highlighted, such as a light switch completely obstructed by a stair railing. The post also includes a small, cramped Manhattan apartment kitchen where a stove blocks cabinet access, ironically described as "prime real estate," and a bathroom accessed by a grand, multi-tiered staircase, making basic bathroom functions unnecessarily elaborate. Overall, the collection serves as a humorous critique of poor planning and execution in home construction and interior design, drawing attention to how even seemingly minor design flaws can significantly impact a home's functionality, safety, and aesthetic appeal. The content is sourced from a popular online community dedicated to showcasing such design blunders, providing a curated look at real-world examples that provoke both amusement and disbelief. #HomeDesignFails #CrappyDesign #InteriorDecorating #Reddit #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalBlunders #Household

The article details the personal experience of award-winning interior designer Gillian Segal as she designed and built her own family home in Vancouver, Canada. Segal humorously describes herself as her 'own worst client,' highlighting the unique challenges and extensive decision-making involved when a designer undertakes their own project. The primary focus of the design was smart space planning, driven by the need to accommodate a growing family within a relatively compact single-family home. Gillian Segal's design philosophy blends modern aesthetics with classical references, reflecting her appreciation for various design styles and her reluctance to commit to a single genre. Key design decisions included optimizing living spaces by combining traditional formal dining and breakfast nooks into a single, larger area, and merging a den with a formal living room. This approach maximized usable space and allowed for a more open and versatile floor plan. The flooring played a foundational role in the design, with Gillian opting for white concrete throughout the home to provide a fresh, unique, and neutral base. This choice subsequently influenced the kitchen design, serving as a blank canvas for the incorporation of stained wood vertical textures in cabinetry, fluted glass on upper cabinets, and antique mirror panels. The kitchen island, a central feature, was meticulously chosen for its durability and resistance to wear and tear from daily family life. Gillian specifically selected a porcelain slab, a material she wished to thoroughly test in her own home before recommending it to clients. The dining area, integrated into the kitchen-diner, features custom pieces from local Vancouver talent, including a table by Christian Woo and a light by Randy Zieber, emphasizing local craftsmanship. Throughout the home, a strong emphasis was placed on kid-proof design, particularly evident in the choice of materials for upholstery in the dining chairs, which combine hardwearing vinyl with patterned indoor/outdoor fabric. The living room showcases a custom marble mantelpiece, made from over 22 cuts of marble, serving as a significant focal point. A Kagan-inspired sofa, upholstered in performance fabric, was selected for its durability against children and its ability to facilitate conversational seating. Even with space constraints, Gillian incorporated a discreet home bar setup within custom built-ins in the living room, complete with a wine fridge. The mudroom, a highly functional area, doubles as a home office during lockdowns and features durable porcelain flooring with a terrazzo look, extensive millwork for storage, and a striking contrast between dark painted cabinetry and a light bench alcove. The entryway is defined by a curved staircase, introduced to add softness and visual interest to an otherwise rectilinear space, adorned with Lindsay Adelman pendants, a commissioned mirror by Hannah Polskin, and a vintage marble table. In the primary bedroom, space efficiency was achieved through a custom built-in headboard with integrated nightstands. The design thoughtfully includes personalized elements, such as a Kelly Wearstler fabric for the bed and nightstands, and Apparatus Studio ceiling lights. Children's rooms are characterized by playful elements like a leafy animal mural, expanding the perceived space and creating an engaging environment. The bathrooms also demonstrate thoughtful material selection, with the primary bathroom featuring unlacquered brass plumbing, European oak, and Calacatta viola, while the family bathroom incorporates a quirky geometric patterned tile for a fun and stylish aesthetic. The powder room, designed with budget in mind, drew inspiration from a 1960s vintage desk, utilizing Corian for the countertop and an integrated sink, alongside a mirrored laminate on the base and dramatic green paint. Gillian Segal's personal project underscores her deep understanding of design challenges and her ability to create a luxurious yet comfortable and highly functional family home. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #GillianSegal #FamilyHome #SpacePlanning #ModernClassics #VancouverHomes #KidProofDesign #CustomDesign

The article compiles a list of 27 home design trends that individuals find irritating or 'ick-worthy,' gathered from the BuzzFeed Community. These trends range from common aesthetic choices to functional design elements that users believe detract from comfort, practicality, or personal style. One recurring complaint targets the prevalence of gray and beige color palettes in home decor, with contributors arguing that these neutral tones create bland and uninspiring living spaces, even extending to children's nurseries and toys, which are seen as detrimental to child development. Another common 'ick' is cool or white-toned lighting, which many compare to the sterile atmosphere of a doctor's office or warehouse, rather than a cozy home environment. Functional design elements also draw criticism, such as front doors that do not face the front of the house, making navigation confusing for visitors. The misuse of bookshelves for decorative items instead of books is highlighted as a source of clutter and a pretense of trendiness. Patterned wallpaper in every room, especially when clashing patterns are used together, is described as overwhelming and causing an 'acid trip' effect. Similarly, faux shutters that are clearly non-functional are disliked for their deceptive appearance. Lighting and flooring choices also receive negative feedback. Ceiling fans with a single, flat light are deemed unappealing compared to those with multiple lamps. Tiled counters are criticized for their susceptibility to grime accumulating in the grout lines, while strip lighting is seen as creating a clinical or gallery-like atmosphere rather than a homely one. The impracticality of carpets or rugs in dining rooms is noted due to potential spills and cleaning difficulties. Storage solutions like floating shelves are broadly disliked for collecting dust, being impractical, and appearing cheap. Dark-colored tiles, particularly black, are considered problematic in kitchens and bathrooms as they can make spaces feel enclosed and make it difficult to spot bugs. Barn doors used for bathrooms are specifically called out for their lack of privacy and inability to contain odors. The absence of lamps in favor of recessed lighting in some wealthy homes is noted as a frustrating trend, contributing to a less inviting ambiance. Decorative elements like dried vine balls and signs with generic phrases such as "live, laugh, love" are found to be dusty and cheesy, respectively. Exposed lightbulbs, including large skeleton pendants and Edison bulbs, are equated to exposed wires and seen as aesthetically unpleasing. Feature walls, particularly those with dated textures or colors, are criticized for being difficult and costly to change once they go out of style. Bathroom design trends that are disliked include open showers without curtains or glass enclosures, which result in cold experiences, and freestanding bathtubs placed too close to walls, making cleaning difficult. Finally, crushed velvet furniture is dismissed as having "live, laugh, love" vibes, and low-slung, armless, or extremely deep seating is criticized for being uncomfortable and inaccessible for individuals with physical impairments or age-related stiffness, signaling an unwelcoming environment for older or disabled guests. The practice of placing area rugs on top of carpeting is also universally panned as unhygienic and aesthetically displeasing. The article concludes by inviting readers to share their own home design 'icks.' #HomeDecorTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeAesthetics #DesignIcks #HomeImprovement #DecoratingTips #BuzzFeedCommunity

Interiors expert Kate Watson-Smyth, known for "Mad About The House," shares her insights on common design regrets in her final column for Red. She highlights the prevalent fear of making costly decorating mistakes, which often leads people to delay home improvements or settle for suboptimal designs. Watson-Smyth emphasizes that taking time to meticulously plan every detail can reduce errors, though even with careful planning, things can still go awry. Watson-Smyth discusses her own experiences with design mishaps, attributing many to a lack of attention during the final stages of a project when fatigue sets in. She recounts a personal regret regarding a kitchen worktop that was installed too high, suiting her tall builder but creating an inconvenience for daily use. Another example is an off-centre bathroom splashback, a detail that continues to bother her daily because she wasn't present to oversee its installation. The article also addresses paint-related common mistakes. One friend regretted using chalk paint due to its susceptibility to marking, while another lamented painting her hallway first, only for it to require repainting after the rest of the house was completed. Watson-Smyth reassures readers that most design elements, such as lighting and furniture, can be corrected or replaced. She shares her experience of swapping a scratched metal-top table for a vintage marble one, only to find it slightly too small, illustrating the iterative and sometimes arduous nature of achieving the desired outcome. Flooring is identified as a particularly critical area for planning, given its expense and the inconvenience of changing it. Watson-Smyth advises visualizing movement within spaces, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, to ensure functional layouts. She argues that understanding personal needs and lifestyle habits before embarking on a design project is crucial for minimizing errors. She advocates against large open-plan spaces, suggesting they can create conflicts when different activities (e.g., watching TV, listening to music, cooking) need to occur simultaneously. The columnist encourages readers to consider their habits when designing, such as whether they prefer hanging or folding clothes, taking baths or showers, and how they use a sofa for relaxation or conversation. She playfully suggests that the high cost of interior designers stems from their role in preemptively considering these personal nuances. Watson-Smyth concludes her column by expressing gratitude to her readers and directs them to her Substack for continued decorating advice. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecorating #DesignRegrets #KateWatsonSmyth #HomeRenovation #DecoratingTips #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #LifestyleConsiderations

Interior designer Emily Henderson, following the launch of her new seating collection on Wayfair, shares her insights into common living room design mistakes and offers practical advice for creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces. Henderson identifies the biggest design error as pushing all furniture against the walls, a common attempt to maximize floor space that often results in an empty, awkward feeling in larger rooms. She emphasizes that sofas, particularly those from her collection designed with low profiles and attractive backs, should be positioned to anchor the center of a room, creating a more intimate and well-defined conversational area. Henderson also highlights a current design trend she appreciates: the integration of old-world tapestry elements. She points to items like throw pillows and furniture from Anthropologie's Hale collection, which feature whimsical, antique-inspired patterns. Her recommendation is to balance these ornate pieces with more modern or post-modern elements to achieve a sophisticated and eclectic look. This approach prevents the space from appearing overly traditional or dated, instead fostering a contemporary blend of styles. To combat decision fatigue in decorating, Henderson suggests starting with a colorful sofa as a focal point. She argues that a vibrant couch, such as those in greens, blues, or pinks, simplifies the design process by establishing a central theme. The rest of the room can then be built around this piece with neutral tones and a single accent color, making the overall scheme cohesive and manageable. Additionally, colorful upholstery is often more practical for households with children and pets, as it tends to conceal wear and tear more effectively than lighter shades. For overlooked spaces like empty corners, Henderson offers an affordable and effective solution: a small pedestal table paired with two chairs. She notes that these simple arrangements can make a room feel cozier and provide an additional functional area without requiring significant investment. She specifically mentions using accessible options from retailers like World Market for stools. In terms of paint colors, Henderson is currently fond of Sherwin-Williams' Alabaster, a white with a subtle taupe undertone. She praises its versatility, noting its ability to complement various wood tones without being too warm or too cool, making it suitable for a range of interior styles. When it comes to sourcing decor, Henderson advocates for incorporating vintage items, particularly for art and lighting. She explains that thrift stores offer affordable alternatives to contemporary art, allowing individuals to introduce unique pieces without a large budget. Similarly, vintage lamps can instantly elevate the style of a room, providing character and functionality that new lamps might lack. This practice promotes sustainability and individuality in design. Finally, Henderson addresses the common dilemma of televisions in living rooms. Contrary to the belief that TVs should be hidden or excluded for aesthetic reasons, she argues that a living room without a television might go unused, defeating its purpose as a communal space. She cites an example where redesigning a living room to include a TV, cleverly disguised within a gallery wall, led to the family using the space more frequently. This pragmatic approach prioritizes the room's functionality and the enjoyment of its occupants over strict adherence to aesthetic ideals, suggesting that incorporating a TV thoughtfully can enhance, rather than detract from, a living room's utility. #LivingRoomDesign #EmilyHenderson #InteriorDesignTips #FurniturePlacement #ColorSelection #VintageDecor #TapestryTrend #HomeDecor #SofaChoice

In Mountain Brook, Birmingham, an 11-year-old Georgian-style house, designed by architect James F. Carter and decorated by owner Caroline Gidiere, has become a local sensation, drawing admirers for its distinctive design and paint colors. The residence stands out amidst older English-style homes, characterized by its strict Georgian proportions and enchanting gardens, often leading strangers to inquire about its aesthetic choices. Caroline Gidiere, initially a lawyer with a latent passion for design, embarked on this project after she and her husband, Stephen, purchased a dilapidated house. Believing it was a fixer-upper, they soon learned from Carter that it was beyond repair. This unexpected turn led Gidiere to articulate her vision for a new home, drawing inspiration from the George Wythe House in Colonial Williamsburg, a place she visited annually since childhood. Her affinity for the 1750s structure's symmetry and balance was a guiding principle in the design process. Gidiere's personal vision was so clear that she opted to forgo an interior designer, collaborating directly with Carter. Her design philosophy embraces traditional elements alongside vibrant patterns and colors. The foyer, for instance, features Chinese blue-and-white exportware. The living room boasts sofas with ruffled slipcovers in Colefax and Fowler's Bowood fabric, harmoniously paired with Kentian consoles and a games table from the Paris Flea Market. The dining room is adorned with hand-painted chinoiserie wallpaper in a midtone green, cleverly concealing storage closets. The home's color palette, while bold, maintains an elegant balance, creating a joyous and cohesive atmosphere. An example is the lavender sofa with pink and aqua pillows in the kitchen and family room, complemented by a bright orange banquette and a pleated lampshade crafted from an orange silk sari. Hot-orange millwork contrasts with traditional chocolate brown cabinetry in the bar area, preventing any sense of stuffiness. This integration of color underscores the home's connection to nature, both indoors and out, facilitating a seamless flow between spaces designed for entertaining and daily family life. Stephen Gidiere played a significant role in the landscape design, working with Randy McDaniel to select plants and maintain the gardens. He personally tends to the dahlia garden, espaliered hornbeams and fruit trees, and myrtle topiaries, viewing it as both a hobby and a stress reliever. Caroline Gidiere's immersion in the decorating process, including mundane tasks like hardware selection, eventually led Stephen to secretly file her incorporation papers and secure her decorating license, encouraging her to pursue her passion professionally. She subsequently transitioned from law to a successful career in interior design, exceeding her own expectations. #GeorgianArchitecture #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #CarolineGidiere #AlabamaHomes #TraditionalDesign #ColorPalette #GardenDesign #DesignInspiration

The blog post from TODAY's "Jenna & Friends" invites viewers to submit their home decor dilemmas for a chance to have them solved on-air. The primary purpose of this article is to engage the audience and solicit their home styling problems. It emphasizes that if individuals are unsure how to refresh their living spaces or struggle with styling a particular room, they can share their issues using a provided form. This initiative aims to connect with viewers, offering practical solutions and expert advice through the television program. The article is brief and directly calls to action, indicating that Jenna and Friends are looking for submissions to address on the show. This call for submissions falls under the 'Connect' section of TODAY, highlighting interactive content designed to build a community around the show. The article was published on May 5, 2025, and is continuously seeking audience participation. It is presented by TODAY, America's first morning show, which is positioned as a trusted source for information and inspiration. The article does not offer specific home decor tips or solutions but rather acts as an open invitation for viewers to share their challenges, suggesting that the solutions will be provided during the broadcast. This interactive approach encourages engagement and provides content for future segments of the show, allowing the hosts and their expert friends to offer personalized advice directly to their audience's home-related issues. The content is part of a broader series of interactive segments promoted by "Jenna & Friends," including calls for DIY furniture flips, holiday dream makeovers, and Halloween costume ideas. This strategy maintains a consistent theme of audience involvement, turning viewer problems and creative endeavors into on-air content. The article is structured to be straightforward, clearly stating its objective and the method for participation, making it accessible for viewers to understand how they can contribute to the show. The emphasis is on problem-solving through engagement, leveraging the show's platform to address common home decor struggles with expert guidance. #HomeDecor #JennaAndFriends #DIY #InteriorDesign #AudienceParticipation #TelevisionShow #HomeStyling

This article, based on a survey of over 1,000 Which? members, highlights the most common regrets people have about their kitchen remodels, aiming to help others avoid similar mistakes. The key areas of regret span functional and aesthetic aspects of kitchen design. The most frequently cited issue, affecting 16% of respondents, is a lack of adequate worktop space. This challenge is often compounded by the need to accommodate various appliances, leading to cluttered surfaces and difficulties in food preparation. Suggestions to mitigate this include storing infrequently used appliances and considering compact solutions like flat hobs or mobile kitchen islands. Insufficient storage is another significant regret, reported by 10% of kitchen owners. Many find themselves without enough cupboards and drawers for pots, pans, food items, and even small miscellaneous articles. The article recommends maximizing storage during a re-fit by incorporating deep cupboards, built-in spice racks, and pull-out corner shelves. It also advises on using budget-friendly storage solutions like under-shelf racks and storage baskets to keep items organized and accessible, preventing frustration from overcrowded cabinets. The design and quality of flooring present regrets for 4% of respondents. Issues include difficulties in keeping black or white tiles clean, especially in high-spill areas like around sinks and cookers. Other complaints involve creaking floorboards, poor acoustic properties, and tiled floors that lead to breakage of dropped items. The thermal properties of flooring are also a concern, with some respondents noting cold and worn tiles. The article suggests considering different flooring options and their properties to make an informed choice. Kitchen layout frustrations affect another 4% of Which? members. A common pitfall is an inefficient 'working triangle'—the distance between the oven, sink, and fridge—which can impede smooth workflow. The article emphasizes planning appliance placement to ensure easy access to frequently used items. It also mentions the availability of online kitchen planners from various brands like Benchmarx Kitchens, DIY Kitchens, Homebase, and Ikea, which can help visualize and optimize layouts. Not enough power sockets is a regret for 3% of survey participants, especially with the proliferation of modern kitchen gadgets. The article advises planning for sufficient outlets for both large and small appliances, as well as considering USB plug sockets for charging devices like phones and tablets. Poor lighting, also regrettable for 3% of respondents, often results in shadows over worktops, making tasks difficult. Recommendations include installing strip lighting under wall cabinets and strategically placing pendant lights over islands for both aesthetics and task illumination. Lastly, the height of cabinets is a concern for some, particularly shorter individuals, who find top shelves inaccessible. The article suggests planning for daily essentials to be stored in lower cabinets and using footstools for higher, less frequently accessed items, with a note of caution for those with mobility issues. The article concludes by encouraging readers to create a wishlist and adapt it to their space and budget, taking into account fixed constraints like doors and windows. It also points to resources for kitchen planning, layout ideas, and even buying second-hand kitchens to manage costs. The insights are drawn from a survey conducted in November 2023 with 1,108 Which? members. #KitchenDesign #HomeImprovement #KitchenRemodel #WorktopSpace #KitchenStorage #KitchenLayout #KitchenLighting #PowerSockets #KitchenFlooring

The article explores the ongoing debate within the interior design community regarding the relevance of open-concept living spaces. It features insights from several designers, some of whom express a growing dissatisfaction with open-plan layouts, while others continue to champion their benefits. Brad Ramsey, a Nashville-based designer and 2024 Next Wave winner, notes a fatigue with homes featuring a single large room encompassing living, dining, sitting areas, and kitchen. He argues that while the desire for togetherness is understandable, such designs often strip a home of its character and intimacy. Ramsey emphasizes that while he is not entirely against open concepts, he believes they need careful execution to prevent a loss of coziness. He suggests incorporating intimate, connective moments within larger layouts and advocates for closed-concept spaces, comparing a home's design to a wardrobe, where different rooms can offer varied moods and functions, from cozy family rooms to more formal sitting areas or vibrant powder rooms. This approach allows for greater creative freedom with color, texture, and pattern in individual spaces without needing to ensure they harmonize with adjacent rooms. Jerel Lake, an Atlanta-based designer, echoes Ramsey's sentiment, expressing a preference for the compartmentalized nature of older homes. He dislikes the idea of performing kitchen tasks like washing dishes in the same visual space as the dining area. Lake posits that closed-concept living fosters more focused engagement among family and friends by minimizing distractions often present in open-style homes. He highlights the design flexibility of separate rooms, where a kitchen can feature moody finishes, and a living room can adopt a light and fresh palette independently. Conversely, some designers maintain that open-concept layouts remain valuable. Los Angeles-based designer Amber Lewis suggests that open concepts are ideal for those who frequently entertain guests, preventing overcrowding in smaller, separate rooms. Vince Falotico, managing partner at Brooks & Falotico in New Canaan, Connecticut, supports open concepts when they align with a client's lifestyle and are executed effectively. He points out their practical advantages, such as maximizing natural light and offering seamless views, especially in properties with scenic surroundings. Shea McGee, a designer from Salt Lake City, offers a more balanced perspective, allowing clients to choose based on their preferences but acknowledging the benefits of open floor plans. She notes that families and frequent entertainers often gravitate towards open layouts because they enable simultaneous activities like watching TV, supervising children, and cooking. The article concludes by emphasizing that the choice between open- and closed-concept living ultimately depends on the homeowner's lifestyle and specific needs. It raises the question of timelessness, observing that closed-concept designs have a long history, while open concepts are a more recent trend. For those seeking a classic aesthetic, designating separate rooms for the kitchen, living room, and dining area remains a safe and enduring choice. #OpenConceptLiving #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeLayout #DesignPhilosophy #ResidentialArchitecture #SpacePlanning #DesignerInsights #FamilyLiving

The article discusses common living room layout mistakes and provides expert-approved fixes to create a more functional and stylish home. The author shares a personal anecdote about a past living room setup with an oversized chocolate brown sofa that made the space feel cramped, highlighting an early realization about the importance of good design. This experience led to a deeper interest in interior design and a better understanding of living room layouts. One significant mistake identified by Jennifer Jones, Principal Designer at Niche Interiors, and Melanie Bryant of Melanie Bryant Interiors, is ignoring scale. Furniture that is too large can overwhelm a room, while pieces that are too small can make everything appear to float. The experts emphasize the importance of measuring the space before purchasing furniture to ensure proper fit and flow. A recommended guideline is to maintain 14–18 inches between a sofa and a coffee table to allow for movement and ensure pieces complement the space without blocking pathways. If a room still feels 'off,' it is often an indication of a scaling issue. Another frequent error is using a rug that is too small. A rug that only fits under a coffee table, for instance, can make a living room feel smaller and disjointed. Instead, designers advise choosing a rug large enough for all seating to comfortably rest upon, or at least under the front legs of the furniture. This approach grounds the room and creates a more cohesive and connected feel. The article encourages homeowners to 'go big or go home' when selecting a living room rug. The article also addresses the issue of bare corners, which can make a room feel cold and incomplete. Designers suggest adding greenery, such as large houseplants or indoor trees, to fill these awkward spaces. This simple addition can introduce life and interest, transforming what might otherwise be a 'dead corner' into a cozy and inviting area. The focus is on a mindset shift to view empty corners as opportunities for design enhancement rather than challenging voids. A common layout mistake is pushing all furniture against the walls. This practice, while seemingly aimed at making a room appear larger, often has the opposite effect, flattening the space and hindering natural flow. Instead, the experts recommend placing at least one piece of furniture towards the center of the living room to create a more intimate and layered layout. Floating furniture facilitates conversation and encourages connection, which is crucial for a welcoming living room. The goal is to achieve balance and provide 'breathing room' within the arrangement. Crowding the space with too much furniture, leading to difficult circulation, is another pitfall. Designers stress the importance of accounting for ease of movement. Specific measurements are provided for pathways: 30-36 inches for main thoroughfares and at least 24 inches between armchairs. Finally, the article highlights clutter as a major detriment to even a well-planned layout. Scattered remotes, blankets, cords, and knick-knacks can make a room feel chaotic. To combat this, utilizing storage solutions like decorative boxes for small items, lidded baskets or ottomans for blankets, and cord covers for electronic wires can significantly improve the room's overall aesthetic and tranquility. The piece concludes by encouraging readers to make thoughtful adjustments to create a living room that is both functional and visually appealing, emphasizing that small changes can have a large impact. #LivingRoomDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesignTips #FurnitureLayout #ScaleAndProportion #RugPlacement #SpacePlanning #ClutterControl

The article details designer Allison Clouser's journey of transforming a 1980s ranch-style home, initially purchased for renovation and resale, into her own family residence. The property, located just outside Bend, Oregon, in Tumalo, was in its original 1980s condition, requiring extensive renovation. Despite its dated appearance, Clouser recognized its potential for thoughtful cosmetic upgrades and its inherent charm, leading to a shift in her initial intention to sell. Key aspects of the renovation focused on addressing the home's outdated features while preserving its rustic charm. A significant challenge was the original wood-paneled ceiling, which had developed an orange, lacquered finish over time. Instead of painting it, Clouser opted for sandblasting to restore the cedar to its natural state, then applied a custom oil stain to achieve a warm, organic finish. This meticulous process transformed the ceiling into a central design feature, setting a grounded, textural, and timeless tone for the main living space. The kitchen, initially dark and disconnected, underwent a major transformation to become open and integrated with the living areas. A zellige-tiled hood was chosen over traditional stainless steel, adding softness, texture, and a focal point to the space. The kitchen incorporates Cle Tile's pantry pavers for a lived-in texture, contrasting with sleek marble countertops. Brass accents and Mullan sconces contribute to a collected feel, while a locally made wooden island and sourced glassware add unique touches. Appliances include an Ilve Range and Forte’s panel-ready fridge/freezer for a seamless look. Due to the absence of a formal dining room, a custom-built corner banquette, upholstered in Schumacher’s ‘Camden’ Check, was incorporated. This element visually separates the kitchen and living space while providing a warm, communal, and highly functional dining area. The Fourhands dining table and vintage bistro chairs further enhance the space, complemented by a Lauren Liess x Troy Lighting ‘Arcane’ pendant. A dramatic and playful home bar was created by carving out a wet bar area with an arched opening, covered in woven grasscloth and deep glossy tiles. Fluted cabinetry and open brass shelving elevate the design, making it a vibrant space for entertaining without disrupting the main living area. The living room was designed for balance, combining grounded elements with a refined rustic aesthetic. The restored ceiling, a soapstone fireplace surround, vintage armchairs, and a Moss Home Studio ‘Linda’ sofa in linen contribute to its character. H&M drapes and Sierra Pacific windows ensure ample light, and a library ledge with brass sconces adds a thoughtful, lived-in touch. The bathroom was significantly expanded to create a retreat-like experience, moving from a small, dimly lit space to a light-filled sanctuary. Cle Tile’s pantry pavers were used on the floors, matching those in the kitchen, and Bedrosians Carrara marble was used in the wet areas. Restoration Hardware vanities and Visual Comfort and Pottery Barn lighting and mirrors complete the space, with a freestanding tub strategically placed to offer mountain views. The bedroom, part of a new addition, features Kravet grasscloth-wrapped walls, rich wood tones, Huey Lighting pendants, Pom Pom at Home bedding, and a McGee & Co. throw. An upcycled IKEA PAX unit with custom Kettlewell panels provides a built-in look for storage. A cozy lounge area adjacent to the primary suite was designed with dark, moody tones, custom pillows, McGuire chairs, and equestrian artwork, reflecting the Central Oregon landscape. A built-in bed nook, wrapped in Farrow & Ball’s ‘Salon Drab’ and adorned with a lumbar pillow from Alice Sergeant and Quince bedding, serves as a charming space for naps and guests. The design philosophy of the home is described as an elevated rustic ranch with a refined edge, drawing inspiration from the natural landscape and agricultural heritage of the region. The project, initially intended for resale, became a deeply personal and creatively fulfilling endeavor, showcasing the value of patience and thoughtful design in creating a truly personalized home. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #RanchStyleHome #KitchenRemodel #BathroomDesign #LivingRoomDecor #RusticModern #CustomMillwork #CeilingRestoration

This article highlights a collection of egregious bathroom design failures observed by individuals globally and compiled into an online gallery by Bored Panda. The central theme revolves around a lack of privacy, impractical placements, and aesthetically questionable choices in bathroom construction and outfitting. Examples include a toilet positioned behind clear glass, offering no privacy to its user, and another fully functioning toilet oddly situated on a landing of a stairway in an Airbnb property. These instances exemplify a disregard for fundamental bathroom functionality and user comfort. Further illustrations of poor design encompass mirrored ceiling cubicles in a workplace bathroom, creating an unsettling environment. Another featured failure is a toilet in an under-the-stairs lavatory, installed diagonally and partially integrated into a carpeted wall, showcasing a severe misjudgment of space and hygiene. The article also points out a bizarre toilet seat adorned with thumbtacks, which appears to be highly uncomfortable and impractical. Other notable blunders include a restaurant that stores its dishes in an unhygienic proximity to a toilet, and a bathroom featuring carpet extending from the floor up the bathtub and walls, indicating a lack of foresight regarding moisture and cleanliness. Several images display toilets positioned in unconventional and publicly exposed locations. One such instance shows a toilet in a block of apartments in the US that is visible from the street, raising significant privacy concerns. Another design features two toilets facing each other in a seemingly communal bathroom, implying a lack of personal space and an uncomfortable social dynamic. Carpeting, particularly in shades of brown or moss-like textures, frequently appears in the depicted failures, covering floors and even bathtubs, which is generally considered unhygienic and difficult to maintain in a damp environment. The collection also includes baffling placements, such as a toilet that, despite being almost in a normal position, is angled or positioned in a way that makes it slightly off and therefore awkward for users. The recurring theme across these examples is the prioritization of unconventional aesthetics or spatial constraints over practical usability, hygiene, and most importantly, privacy. These design errors range from merely inconvenient to outright unsanitary or exposing, leading to both humorous and horrifying reactions from observers. #BathroomDesignFails #HomeInterior #DesignBlunders #PrivacyIssues #UnconventionalBathrooms #AirbnbFails #InteriorDecorating

Danielle Tanner, an interior designer at Topology Interiors, embarked on a significant renovation of her three-bedroom flat in south-east London, which had remained untouched for over six decades by its previous owners. The project aimed to transform the dated property into a warm, contemporary home for her and her partner, along with their cat, Dora. The renovation involved stripping the flat back to its essential structure, including a complete rewiring and strategic modification of interior walls to optimize the living space. A key aspect of the structural changes involved reconfiguring the layout of the kitchen and bathroom. Danielle managed to reclaim approximately 30cm from the unusually large bathroom, which, despite its modest size, significantly enhanced the functionality of the kitchen. This additional space allowed for the installation of an extra row of units and overhead shelving, features she particularly values. Furthermore, she ingeniously carved out a floor-to-ceiling hallway cupboard from another section of the bathroom, creating much-needed storage for household items like a vacuum cleaner, coats, shoes, and bags. This was a crucial improvement, especially given the narrow entrance typical of many Victorian London terraces, illustrating how small, thoughtful adjustments can lead to substantial practical benefits. The living room, initially perceived as large but poorly laid out with furniture pushed against the walls, underwent a notable transformation. Danielle’s design philosophy emphasized creating a more intimate and conversational setting by bringing the sofa inwards, rather than adhering to conventional wall-placement. This adjustment not only improved the room's aesthetic and comfort but also freed up a significant back wall for bespoke storage cupboards and expansive floating shelves, which serve as a prominent design element and a favorite spot for her cat. The kitchen also benefited from a layout overhaul, with the addition of a peninsula that provides extra seating and dining space without sacrificing storage, making it ideal for entertaining guests while cooking. Throughout the renovation, Danielle prioritized maximizing storage, recognizing it as a major deficiency in the original property. Custom joinery was integrated into every room, including floor-to-ceiling wardrobes in both bedrooms, the hallway cupboard, and alcove cupboards, along with a full back wall of storage in the living room. While this bespoke joinery represented a significant investment, its utility proved invaluable. Budget management was a critical challenge, but Danielle meticulously tracked expenses, ensuring the project stayed within financial limits. She allocated a buffer for unforeseen issues, which fortunately were not extensively utilized. Cost-saving measures included retaining and repainting the original doors in a uniform color with new hardware, embracing their diverse styles as a unique character feature rather than replacing them entirely. Danielle's favorite part of her home is the living room, appreciated for its afternoon sunlight and ability to transition between light and airy in summer and cozy with a gas fire in winter. She also cherishes the large floating shelves for their decorative impact and versatility. Reflecting on the project, she identified a few areas she would change if given the opportunity, such as adding wall lights or softer lighting in the hallway and replacing the skirting boards and door architraves for a crisper finish. Despite these minor reflections, her overall satisfaction stems from taking the time to carefully select decorative elements and furnishings, ensuring the home truly reflected her personal style and needs, rather than rushing for a quick completion. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #LondonHome #BeforeAndAfter #SpaceOptimization #CustomJoinery #BudgetRenovation #LivingRoomDesign #KitchenRemodel #HallwayStorage