10 Joanna Gaines Inspired Trends That People Have Come To Regret

Joanna Gaines, known for her ability to blend rustic warmth with modern practicality, offers valuable insights for homeowners looking to remodel vintage kitchens. Her design philosophy centers on honoring the inherent character of old spaces rather than completely gutting them, advocating for the integration of original elements with new amenities. This approach ensures that vintage kitchens retain their history and personality while becoming more functional and stylish. One of Gaines' primary tips is to customize the space to suit contemporary lifestyles. She encourages homeowners to reimagine their vintage kitchens, expanding prep areas and incorporating cohesive storage solutions, while preserving the original charm. Simple adjustments, such as repositioning appliances for better workflow or updating countertops, can revitalize the kitchen without sacrificing its historic appeal. Gaines also suggests personalizing the space with evolving design touches, including rotating seasonal decor or repurposing corners for new functions like a coffee bar. A key element in Gaines' design is the use of neutral color palettes. Soft, muted tones like whites, creams, and gentle grays serve as a calm and cohesive backdrop, allowing historic details such as antique fixtures or rustic woodwork to stand out. This neutral foundation offers flexibility, enabling the incorporation of various materials and eras without overwhelming the space. While neutrals form the base, Gaines also recognizes the impact of a well-placed pop of color. Introducing vibrant hues through easily changeable elements like painted cabinets, statement backsplashes, or colorful accessories can add energy and personality while honoring the kitchen's vintage character. This strategy allows for playful touches without a significant budget or extensive renovation. Investing in timeless materials is another core principle. Gaines frequently uses classic elements such as white marble countertops, subway tile backsplashes, aged brass, and reclaimed wood accents. These materials offer both beauty and durability, ensuring that the design elements withstand the test of time and maintain the kitchen's charm. Additionally, she emphasizes creating a functional layout. Recognizing that many vintage kitchens were not designed for modern workflows, Gaines prioritizes layouts that are both functional and visually harmonious. This often involves reconfiguring cramped spaces by removing walls, expanding countertops, or adding islands that serve multiple purposes, all while seamlessly integrating new features with older architectural elements. Highlighting architectural details is crucial to Gaines' approach. Instead of removing original features, she preserves and enhances elements like exposed ceiling beams, original moldings, or antique hardware. These details tell the architectural story of the home and add authenticity. Open shelving is also a favored technique, blending utility with personality by showcasing meaningful pieces and creating a lived-in feel. Open shelves visually expand the room and promote intentional living by allowing both functional and decorative items to shine. Moreover, Gaines stresses the importance of cohesive cabinet hardware. She views hardware as the jewelry of the kitchen, unifying the space and strengthening the overall aesthetic. Updating hardware is a cost-effective way to refresh a kitchen and can subtly highlight historic features. Accessorizing with light fixtures is another impactful tip. By layering multiple light sources like pendant lights, sconces, and under-cabinet lighting, Gaines creates a warm, welcoming ambiance that enhances both functionality and personality. These fixtures often become focal points, tying together elements from different eras. Incorporating natural elements, such as greenery, earthy vintage items, or fresh-cut flowers, adds warmth and texture, bringing the outdoors indoors. These touches soften hard edges, balance industrial materials, and create an inviting atmosphere. Adding personal touches, such as sentimental items or handmade pottery, transforms the kitchen into the lived-in heart of the home, telling a story and inviting intimacy. Finally, Gaines’ ultimate principle is to maintain a balance between old and new. By preserving original features while introducing modern elements, she creates spaces that are both historic and suitable for contemporary living, resulting in kitchens that feel layered, authentic, and timeless. #JoannaGaines #VintageKitchenRemodel #KitchenDesignTips #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #FarmhouseStyle #NeutralPalettes #TimelessMaterials #FunctionalLayouts #ArchitecturalDetails #OpenShelving #CabinetHardware #LightingDesign #NaturalElements #PersonalizedDecor

Joanna Gaines, a prominent figure in interior design, is recognized for her modern farmhouse aesthetic, which combines rustic charm with elegance. Rising to fame through HGTV's "Fixer Upper" alongside her husband Chip Gaines, she transformed various properties into desirable homes and expanded her brand, Magnolia, into an e-tailing giant featuring home décor, furniture, paint, wallpaper, and vintage-inspired kitchenware. Gaines' design philosophy significantly influences kitchen aesthetics, seamlessly integrating old-world charm with contemporary elements. Her work, showcased on television, social media, and in her own homes, provides inspiration for those seeking to update farmhouse-style kitchens or incorporate vintage accents. One of Gaines' signature approaches involves bringing outdoor elements indoors, utilizing natural color palettes, materials like terra cotta floor tiles with marble accents, and incorporating potted plants. Her designs for projects like "Fixer Upper: The Lakehouse" reflect a grounded connection to nature, avoiding overly rustic appearances. She also masterfully employs contrast in her kitchen designs, often through paint choices such as black and white, or earthy tones juxtaposed with darker hues. This contrast extends to furniture and décor, where differing objects are placed to create a balanced blend of old and new. For instance, her use of unfinished, unpainted cabinetry in the "Magnolia Table" set kitchen served as a nod to the property's 1800s history, layering texture and tone for a timeless feel. Gaines excels at combining modern and rustic styles, making traditional kitchens feel current rather than dated. This is achieved not by integrating advanced technology, but by incorporating elements like marble, clean lines, open concepts, and abundant natural light. In "Fixer Upper: The Lakehouse," she combined marble countertops and backsplashes with natural cherry wood for a sophisticated mid-century modern look. Her castle kitchen redesign illustrates this further, transforming a dumbwaiter into a spice rack and an antique table into a functional island, all while integrating custom cabinetry for a contemporary touch. The farmhouse sink, or apron-front sink, is another beloved element that Gaines helped popularize. Its deep basin, historically practical for various tasks, now symbolizes rustic elegance and blends seamlessly with natural wood cabinetry and shiplap walls, serving as a striking centerpiece in modern farmhouse designs. Shiplap, a wooden board with overlapping grooves, is synonymous with Gaines' designs, particularly in kitchens. Initially used for insulation and watertight properties, Gaines transformed it into a popular interior design feature around 2015. She uses it for accent walls, backsplashes, or ceiling paneling, adding depth and character. Experimenting with vertical shiplap makes spaces appear taller and more open, blending rustic and modern farmhouse styles. White marble is another recurring feature, used not only for countertops but also for fireplace surrounds, sink areas, and decorative items. Gaines often pairs marble with organic and rustic materials, such as reclaimed wood or dark cabinets, softening its luxurious appeal and creating a balanced aesthetic. Vintage furniture and decor are crucial to Gaines' designs, imbuing kitchens with a sense of history without appearing outdated. She strategically places antique pieces like hutches, which offer both style and practical storage. Her "Found & Collected" vintage line under the Magnolia brand exemplifies this. Antique wooden cabinet doors are another trend Gaines champions, promoting an eco-friendly approach by using reclaimed pieces that add character and a nod to craftsmanship. Furthermore, Gaines incorporates dark color accents, such as black, to create contrast and depth in kitchens, balancing these bold shades with lighter furniture or décor. She also favors vintage-inspired French rolling pins, particularly marble ones, for both their utility in baking and their decorative appeal. Finally, wrought iron fixtures and layered kitchen lighting are essential elements. Gaines subtly incorporates wrought iron in light fixtures, stair railings, and shelving brackets, blending it with other materials to add vintage detail. Layered lighting, including pendants, sconces, and recessed lights, creates warmth and depth, making spaces feel cozy and larger, while also allowing for contrasts in light and material. This comprehensive approach to design makes Gaines' vintage kitchens both functional and aesthetically rich. #JoannaGaines #VintageKitchens #FarmhouseStyle #InteriorDesign #KitchenDesign #MagnoliaHome #RusticModern #HomeDecor #Shiplap

Chip and Joanna Gaines, renowned design figures from 'Fixer Upper,' have significantly influenced home design. Their evolution in style, moving beyond the modern farmhouse aesthetic, allows them to identify design trends that have become overused or outdated. This article outlines several such trends they now advise against. One trend Joanna Gaines has nuanced is maximalism. While she has incorporated elaborate styling in projects like 'Fixer Upper: The Castle,' she cautions against maximalist styles that lack curation. For Gaines, excessive clutter that doesn't feel meaningful detracts from a space's impact. She suggests that true maximalism involves making a bold statement with a few key, purposeful pieces rather than simply filling a space with numerous items, an assessment echoed by other interior designers. Another trend Chip and Joanna Gaines are reconsidering is painting exterior brick. Previously a common method to modernize dated home exteriors, painting brick is now viewed with more selectivity. They argue that unique, antique brick should be preserved, as its character can be a valuable asset. Beyond aesthetics, there's a practical concern: brick is porous, and non-breathable paint can trap moisture, compromising the brick's integrity and potentially leading to costly repairs. Therefore, homeowners are encouraged to think twice before painting exterior brick, especially if it possesses inherent charm. Shiplap boards, a trend Joanna Gaines popularized, have also seen an evolution in her approach. She acknowledges her style has grown over the past decade, moving away from the thick shiplap boards she once championed. Instead, Gaines now favors 'skinnylap,' a thinner version (around 1 inch wide compared to 5-8 inches for traditional shiplap) that offers a more streamlined and contemporary look. This shift was inspired by the lath — thin wooden strips found behind plaster walls — providing a fresh way to add texture without feeling dated. The Gaineses also advise against adhering to only one design style for an entire home. While Joanna Gaines helped establish the modern farmhouse aesthetic, she now believes that mixing various styles creates a more interesting and personalized living space. People are multifaceted, and their homes should reflect that complexity rather than rigidly adhering to a single theme. Integrating different styles allows a home to feel more authentic and reflective of the occupants' evolving tastes and experiences. Wood panel walls, particularly older veneer ones from the 1970s, are another trend the Gaineses suggest updating. In a 'Mini Reni' episode, Joanna Gaines demonstrated how painting these panels, especially in a rich, dark color, can transform a dated room. The paint helps camouflage the 'dingy' wood while highlighting the texture, making the space appear more complex and contemporary without a full removal. Finally, drop ceiling tiles are considered a temporary fix that lacks elegance. While they serve to hide infrastructure, Joanna Gaines believes more refined options exist for adding texture to a ceiling. In her 'Mini Reni' project, she painted diamond-patterned drop ceiling tiles the same dark green as the walls to integrate them better. For new installations, she prefers more contemporary and elevated textured ceilings, such as adding planks to create vertical lines, which she demonstrated in the same renovation, moving away from vinyl tiles. #DesignTrends #HomeImprovement #JoannaGaines #ChipGaines #InteriorDesign #RenovationTips #Maximalism #Shiplap #ExteriorBrickPainting

The modern farmhouse decor style, significantly popularized by Joanna Gaines and her show "Fixer Upper" in the mid-2010s, is experiencing a resurgence in 2025. This trend, characterized by elements like distressed wood, barn door room dividers, and decorative milk jugs, reached its peak popularity alongside the success of Gaines' HGTV series and her Magnolia brand. However, its ubiquity faded in the early 2020s, giving way to more contemporary, minimalist, or retro kitchen designs. The comeback of the farmhouse kitchen in 2025 is notably driven by younger generations, particularly Gen Z, as evidenced by trends like "farm girl summer" on Pinterest. This renewed interest brings a fresh interpretation to the style, moving towards a more cottage-inspired aesthetic. The current iteration emphasizes openness, playful patterns, and bright, airy color schemes, distinguishing it from the earlier, more overtly rustic farmhouse look. The evolution of the farmhouse trend saw a shift towards "rustic modern" around 2019, with Gaines herself adapting her style. This modern take integrates distressed wood, abundant greenery, and industrial elements, moving away from the full barnyard aesthetic of the previous decade. Essential elements like the farmhouse sink, which naturally complements open spaces, natural light, and neutral color palettes, continue to be incorporated. Contemporary farmhouse kitchens also blend Gaines's earlier design preferences, such as contrasting colors and antique fixtures and furniture, with a longing for the simplicity of rural life, often referred to as "cottagecore." This aesthetic includes checker-print tablecloths, soft pastels, optional patterned wallpaper, and vintage thrift store finds, alongside an abundance of potted plants. Ultimately, the reimagined farmhouse kitchen trend aims to create a simple, safe, and idyllic space that evokes the feeling of a countryside pasture or a quaint cottage. It successfully combines rural elements with modern touches and a minimalist approach, offering a versatile and comforting design style for contemporary homes. #JoannaGaines #FarmhouseDecor #KitchenTrends #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ModernFarmhouse #Cottagecore #DesignComeback

Joanna Gaines, a prominent figure in home design with over two decades of experience through "Fixer Upper" and Magnolia Market, shares her insights into timeless design choices that homeowners can confidently integrate without fear of them becoming dated. Her philosophy often revolves around classic aesthetics, vintage touches, and practicality. One of Gaines's enduring recommendations is the use of bright white paint for trim and molding. She emphasizes that a crisp, pure white trim, such as her "True White" shade from the Magnolia Home collection by KILNZ, makes architectural elements stand out and complements any exterior paint color. This choice remains fresh and helps define a home's structure while offering visual contrast. Beyond aesthetics, refreshing trim and molding with white paint is an accessible way to revitalize a space, especially if existing paint is chipped or yellowed. Durable siding is another crucial element for timeless home design. Gaines, along with her husband Chip, advocates for James Hardie siding, a product they have used and trusted for over 20 years. She highlights its functional longevity and aesthetic appeal, noting that homes clad with this siding retain their curb appeal for decades. Gaines's preferred color palette for siding leans towards earthy tones like greens and blues, which maintain a neutral feel and integrate seamlessly with white trim and landscaping elements. Built-in storage solutions are presented as inherently practical and timeless design choices. Gaines views built-ins as an old-fashioned amenity that provides both charm and efficient storage without encroaching on living space. For those unable to install permanent built-ins, she suggests mimicking the effect with freestanding bookcases or vanities painted to match wall colors, using popular options like IKEA's Billy Bookcase or Anthropologie's Fern Marble Top Bookcase to create a custom look. Gaines encourages mixing various decor styles to create a unique and timeless home environment. She explains that a home truly feels personal and enduring when it reflects the evolving tastes and stories of its inhabitants rather than adhering strictly to a single trend. The key is to select pieces that resonate personally and then find common elements, such as wood tones or fabric textures, to unify the diverse styles. This approach allows for the integration of different eras, like pairing mid-century modern with bohemian elements, as long as there's a cohesive thread. Regarding textiles, Gaines champions classic print rugs as a versatile and timeless addition. Her collaboration with Loloi showcases designs that blend old and new, featuring patterns like French ticking stripes, Turkish-inspired motifs, and bold grids. Rugs offer an easy way to introduce visual interest and movement into a room, and their swap-ability makes them a low-commitment design choice. Modern, machine-washable options provide convenience without sacrificing traditional aesthetic. For paint colors, Gaines advises against chasing trends and instead recommends choosing hues that homeowners genuinely enjoy. She believes that personal preference leads to greater longevity in paint choices, as people are less likely to repaint if they love the color. This approach ensures that a home's color scheme remains appealing for years, or even decades, regardless of shifting fads. Specifically, dusty pink paints are highlighted for their timeless charm and elegance. Gaines points to shades like Magnolia's Ella Rose and Rosy Pink as classic hues that create a soft, welcoming atmosphere. These subtle pinks can be used in various spaces, from hallways to accents on furniture, and pair beautifully with natural textures like linen, rattan, or light oak to maintain a sophisticated and cozy aesthetic. Finally, black and white striped wallpaper is presented as a bold yet simple pattern that transcends trends. Gaines herself identifies with this style, appreciating its timeless quality. Vertical stripes can also visually enhance a room by making ceilings appear taller. Her collaboration with York offers a range of wallpapers, including classic stripes, intricate geometrics, and delicate florals, providing options for various design preferences while maintaining a timeless appeal. Marble in bathrooms is also noted for its association with luxury and longevity, with Gaines emphasizing its ability to brighten spaces and its elegant veining. Pairing marble with warm woods and soft metallic finishes enhances its classic appeal. Patterned tile, particularly designs with a long history like zellige, offers a personal and traditional character, connecting a home to craftsmanship and history without overpowering the space. Gaines's use of patterned tile for a fireplace hearth in "Fixer Upper: The Castle" exemplifies how it can complement original architectural features. Overall, Gaines's recommendations emphasize durability, personal resonance, and classic design principles, encouraging homeowners to create spaces that feel authentic, comfortable, and perpetually stylish. #JoannaGaines #HomeDesign #TimelessStyle #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #BuiltInStorage #ExteriorSiding #PatternedRugs #WallpaperTrends

This article explores a significant shift in Joanna Gaines's interior design approach, moving away from her iconic modern farmhouse aesthetic. Once synonymous with shiplap and neutral gray palettes, Gaines's style has evolved, influenced by a period of personal reflection and a deeper connection with nature. This transformation reflects a broader trend in interior design, with the modern farmhouse style experiencing a decline in popularity while trends like maximalism and Coastal Grandmother gain traction. The article highlights key changes in Gaines's design philosophy, evidenced in her latest Waco, Texas, flip project. A notable departure from her previous work is the embrace of moodier, nature-inspired tones over the once-ubiquitous neutrals. This is exemplified in a den renovation where Gaines opted for navy and green paint on the walls and ceilings, creating a dramatic yet cozy atmosphere. Instead of replacing dated flooring, she prioritized paint to make a visual impact, demonstrating how original details can be enhanced with strategic color choices. Neutral-colored furniture is used to create contrast against the rich wall hues, contributing to a casual and comfortable feel. This approach also proved to be budget-friendly, as the focus on paint and existing features came in under budget. Another significant change is the introduction of character-infused moldings and textures, replacing the once-dominant shiplap. In a dining room transformation, Gaines moved beyond a plain white box concept by installing boards and crown moldings on the ceiling and adding paneled trim details to the door, effectively creating a focal point. A soft, inviting gray paint was applied to the door and ceiling, chosen for its simple yet timeless quality, while walls received a warm white paint with a light beige tint to brighten the space. The addition of a new chandelier and velvet curtains further refined the room, tying the design together. Finally, the article points out a move away from large, prominent decor elements like big clocks towards more subtle and layered details, particularly in a boy's room. Gaines utilized wallpaper with a subtle pattern and matching trim on windows and walls to establish a foundational, layered look. A navy wallpaper was applied to the lower half of the walls, with the upper half painted white, creating a masculine yet understated feel. A chair rail with a deeper trim was installed to serve as a photo ledge, allowing for personalization. Hardware on existing built-ins was updated to match chrome accents, demonstrating attention to small details. While encouraging creativity with wallpaper, Gaines also advises professional installation for intricate patterns. #JoannaGaines #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #ModernFarmhouse #DesignEvolution #ColorPalette #TexturalDesign #HomeRenovation #WacoFlip

As January concludes, the anticipation of spring prompts a desire for home refreshment, moving beyond winter's lingering atmosphere. Various homeware brands are introducing their spring lines, among them Magnolia, the renowned store owned by interior designer Joanna Gaines. Her new collections are a constant source of inspiration, with the store itself serving as a dynamic showcase for seasonal decor concepts. Recently, Gaines transformed her Waco store with a spring makeover, aligning with the new collection launch and offering practical decorating tips for homeowners. One key takeaway from Gaines's spring re-design is her innovative approach to displaying spring flowers. She utilizes moss-like foliage to create garlands, artfully scattering them among various displays throughout the store. A notable example is a vibrant garland suspended above a spring tablescape, demonstrating how these typically holiday-associated decorations can bring a fresh, natural touch to any space during spring. Additionally, Gaines crafted charming floral displays using antique-style glass cloches, evoking the traditional ambiance of a Victorian shop. This rustic and inviting aesthetic is easily replicable on console tables, particularly in entryways, to create an old-world charm. The article highlights specific Magnolia products that embody these floral display principles. A Daisy Wreath, made from faux foliage, is suggested for hanging above a mantelpiece or in an entryway. The Caroline Blue Hand-Painted Vase, adorned with delicate flowers, is presented as an ideal vessel for spring blooms. Furthermore, Gaines incorporates Real Touch Oversized Dahlia Stems throughout the Magnolia store, adding vibrant yet delicate touches essential for a spring-inspired interior. Another significant aspect of Gaines's spring aesthetic is her preference for soft earthy shades over traditional pastels. While pastel color schemes are commonly associated with spring, Gaines demonstrates that other hues can achieve an equally uplifting and airy feel. Instead of conventional pale pinks, blues, and greens, she opts for a more muted and earthy palette. The store's design, featuring numerous wooden accents and furniture, contributes to a warm and inviting atmosphere. Gaines integrates traditional spring colors like greens and yellows but in darker, muddier tones, making them more sophisticated and versatile for year-round appeal. The recommendation is to swap one conventional spring shade for a richer tone to create a balanced, lasting interior, complemented by wooden furniture and metallic decor for a cohesive design. Finally, Gaines's design consistently incorporates vintage prints and designs to achieve a spring farmhouse style. Introducing antique-style pieces contributes to a lived-in and charming home environment. The large wooden dresser prominently displayed in the Magnolia store, reminiscent of classic farmhouse kitchens, exemplifies this. It serves as a functional yet decorative piece, ideal for showcasing favorite plates, mugs, and glasses, especially when paired with handpainted china and copper pans for an ultimate antique look. Gaines also utilizes gingham and embroidered fabrics in her decor, from delicate placemats to pastel-printed napkins, which infuse a rustic and characterful element into the space. These prints can be introduced through various home textiles, such as upholstered furniture or bedding, emphasizing that even small changes can significantly impact a spring-inspired scheme. The article suggests specific vintage-inspired products like a Brass and Copper Decorative Box for storing miscellaneous items, a Woven Grid Table Runner for elevating dining tables, and a Callin Etched Brass Bud Vase for showcasing individual flower stems, all contributing to a cohesive, antique-style display. #JoannaGaines #Magnolia #SpringDecor #FarmhouseStyle #InteriorDesignTips #FloralArrangements #EarthyColorPalettes #VintageDecor #HomeRefresh #DecoratingIdeas

The author shares a personal experience with a centerpiece design hack from Joanna Gaines, aiming to simplify holiday decorating while maintaining aesthetic appeal. The author, who previously spent significant time and money on elaborate tabletop decorations, now seeks high-impact, low-effort designs, especially with two young children. Gaines's method involves using branches or foliage in a simple glass vase, which is versatile and cost-effective. The article details five different ways to adapt this hack for various occasions throughout the holiday season, emphasizing the use of natural elements and creative repurposing. For Thanksgiving, the author suggests creating "Franken-branches" by hot-gluing colorful pressed leaves onto found sticks, inspired by a pressed leaves and branches bouquet. This approach allows for vibrant autumn colors without needing to cut from living trees or relying on perfectly intact fallen branches. The leaves are collected, pressed overnight, and then affixed to create a festive, foliage-covered display that evokes the season of thanks. For Hanukkah, the recommendation is to use blue thistle. This flower naturally incorporates the traditional blue and silver color scheme of the holiday, which can be challenging to find in other natural foliage. Blue thistle's unique dimension offers a modern touch. The author suggests pairing it with a ribbed vase for a silver glimmer or a mercury glass design to enhance the shine, noting that individual thistle sprigs also work well in mini bud vases for longer tables. Christmas decorations can be easily achieved with evergreen boughs. These are readily available from sources like Trader Joe's, Christmas tree sellers (who can provide trimmings), or even one's own backyard if conifers are present. When placed in a vintage-inspired balloon glass vase, these wintry branches create a simple yet charming, Dickensian Christmas ambiance, bottling the festive feel without extensive effort. New Year’s Eve calls for a metallic touch, with the suggestion to spray-paint branches or foliage in silver and gold. The author specifically used olive branches, appreciating their symbolic meaning of peace and love for the new year, but notes that bare wood branches would also look striking with this shimmering treatment. This method transforms simple natural elements into a glamorous centerpiece suitable for celebratory occasions. Finally, for a general festive atmosphere not tied to a specific holiday, the author recommends using eucalyptus branches adorned with velvet ribbon. This elegant combination allows for a sophisticated look. The choice of ribbon color can be adapted to any occasion, such as navy for a rich contrast with green eucalyptus, burgundy for Thanksgiving, or candy cane red for Christmas, providing flexibility for various dinner parties throughout the season. #JoannaGaines #CenterpieceHack #HolidayDecorations #DIYDecor #TabletopDesign #SeasonalDecor #NaturalElements #AffordableDecor #CreativeEntertaining

This article explores the process of installing temporary, peel-and-stick wallpaper, specifically the Magnolia Home Willow Peel and Stick Wallpaper from Joanna Gaines' collection. The author, a long-term renter, sought to revitalize a bland, beige bedroom wall and opted for removable wallpaper as a damage-free solution suitable for rental properties. The article details the challenges and lessons learned throughout the installation, offering insights for others considering a similar DIY project. Initially, the author miscalculated the amount of wallpaper needed due to a misunderstanding of how the square footage translates to usable strips, especially when accounting for pattern repeats. While the wall measured approximately 60 square feet, the original purchase of two rolls, each yielding 34 square feet, proved insufficient. This was primarily because each roll only provides two full 8-foot strips after factoring in the need for a consistent pattern and avoiding horizontal seams. A more accurate measurement method is advised: dividing the wall's length by the strip width (20.5 inches) and then dividing that result by two to determine the number of rolls. Successful installation of temporary wallpaper requires specific tools beyond just the wallpaper itself. Essential items include a utility knife for precise cuts, a smoothing tool to eliminate air bubbles and ensure adhesion, a level for accurate vertical alignment, a long straight-edge for cutting, and a step stool for reaching higher sections of the wall. Patience and assistance from another person are also crucial. The author found a dedicated wallpaper smoother and utility knife kit to be particularly helpful, indicating the value of having the right equipment. The installation process itself presented several challenges. Hanging the first sheet proved to be the most difficult, as it required drawing a vertical line 20.5 inches from the corner to ensure the pattern remained straight, independent of potentially uneven walls. Coordinating with a partner for holding and aligning the strips was also a learning curve. Another significant hurdle was aligning the pattern of the wallpaper. The Magnolia Home Willow Wallpaper has a large pattern repeat, which led to a considerable amount of wasted paper when attempting to match the design seamlessly between strips. In some instances, up to 17 inches of paper were discarded to achieve proper alignment. Cutting around electrical outlets and light switches was also a time-consuming and tedious task, with the recommendation to remove the plates first for easier, cleaner cuts. Furthermore, the article notes a slight imperfection in the wallpaper pattern's repeat, where some leaves did not line up perfectly. Although noticeable upon close inspection, the busy nature of the design made this flaw less apparent from a distance. Finally, filling small gaps at the end of the wall, such as a two-inch space near a door frame, required piecing together scraps, which was a painstaking process of matching patterns and cutting small sections. Despite these difficulties, the author concludes that the effort was worthwhile. The temporary wallpaper transformed the bedroom, adding vibrancy and personal style for approximately $100, without risking the security deposit. The project is described as a low-commitment option for those looking to refresh their living space, particularly in rentals, due to the wide variety of available peel-and-stick designs. #HomeDecor #RemovableWallpaper #DIYHomeImprovement #RentalFriendlyDecor #InteriorDesign #PeelAndStickWallpaper #WallDecor #HomeMakeover

HGTV's "Fixer Upper," hosted by Joanna and Chip Gaines, has significantly influenced home decor, particularly through Joanna Gaines' modern farmhouse aesthetic. While the show is known for inspiring millions with its renovations, certain design choices made by the Gaineses have sparked considerable debate among fans and design experts. These controversial decisions range from unconventional floor plans to specific decorative elements that have been deemed impractical or aesthetically questionable. One notable instance of a controversial design choice was the placement of a kitchen on the second floor of a barndominium during Season 3, Episode 7. This decision, made to economize on budget by utilizing an existing apartment layout, drew criticism from viewers who found it impractical for daily living, particularly concerning the logistics of carrying food and dishes up and down stairs. A suggested remedy involves reorganizing the upstairs space to serve as a dedicated dining area, relocating the living room downstairs to create a more traditional and functional home layout. Another design element that generated discussion was the installation of artificial fireplaces purely for character. In Season 1, Episode 6, a mock fireplace was incorporated into a wall, complete with wire baskets and bird nests, making it clear the feature was not functional. To achieve a more authentic look with an artificial fireplace, designers recommend creating a proper surround with a mantel and faux brick interior, using materials like MDF and Roman clay, to give the illusion of a sealed, real chimney. Floating nightstands suspended by ropes in a Season 3 renovation also faced criticism for their impracticality. These tables, described as unstable and potentially obstructive, were seen as less functional than traditional nightstands. For those seeking the aesthetic benefits of floating nightstands, such as reducing visual clutter or facilitating cleaning, wall-mounted versions are suggested as a more stable and practical alternative. The use of old windows as nursery art in Season 2, Episode 9, was another design choice that raised eyebrows. A paint-chipped antique window, hung over a baby's crib and adorned with mason jars and baby's breath, was perceived as random and unbefitting for a nursery. Modern design alternatives, such as large mirrors, are now favored by Joanna Gaines to fill empty wall spaces, offering reflective qualities that enhance the sense of space without the issues associated with the old window decor. Generic word art, exemplified by a sign reading "Today is a good day for a good day" in Season 1, Episode 8, also proved controversial. This type of decor is often criticized for being generic and lacking genuine inspiration. Designers advise against word salad art, instead recommending a mix of diverse art mediums, such as paintings, photography, and wood pieces, to create a more varied and engaging wall display. Excessive use of reclaimed wood, as seen in an entire kitchen designed with the material in Season 2, Episode 1, was another point of contention. While reclaimed wood can add rustic charm, its overuse led to a visually heavy and repetitive aesthetic. The recommendation is to use reclaimed wood sparingly, perhaps as an accent wall, a mantel, or in open shelving, to maintain its special appeal without overwhelming a space. Similarly, covering a tray ceiling with reclaimed wood in Season 3, Episode 11, was criticized for two reasons: it contributed to the overabundance of rustic wood accents and highlighted an outdated architectural feature. Tray ceilings themselves are considered passé by many designers, and drawing attention to them with texture is generally advised against. A common modern approach is to cover tray ceilings with drywall to create a flat, contemporary look. Finally, the graphic grid wallpaper used in a boy's bedroom in the "Mini Reni" series, while intended to be masculine and subtle, was likened by viewers to an "'80s airport bathroom." This response suggests that certain patterns or designs can inadvertently evoke dated aesthetics. To avoid this, designers might opt for patterns with a chunkier grid or different geometric shapes, or consider stripes, to achieve a modern and appealing look. These examples illustrate that even highly influential designers like Joanna Gaines can make choices that divide opinion, underscoring the subjective nature of home design and the constant evolution of aesthetic trends. #FixerUpper #JoannaGaines #ChipGaines #HomeDesign #InteriorDesignTrends #ControversialDesign #ModernFarmhouse #HGTV #HomeRenovation

Joanna Gaines, known for her farmhouse-chic style, consistently introduces home décor trends that often become timeless. One such trend that Gaines champions, and which continues to hold its own, is the use of Roman shades. These window treatments are presented as a classic option for enhancing privacy and adding a stylish element to any space, with Gaines demonstrating their enduring appeal through her work at Magnolia. In a project dubbed "Mini Reni," Gaines integrated Roman shades into a young family's foyer and dining room. The objective was to create a cohesive, southwestern-inspired, lived-in, and earthy atmosphere. Gaines specifically selected Roman shades with a natural texture, noting their ability to make a statement and introduce another woven element that complemented existing light fixtures and décor. This choice underscores her belief in the longevity of Roman shades, distinguishing them from other once-trendy design elements that she and Chip Gaines have advised against. Roman shades offer versatility in their application and can be effectively utilized to create design continuity between different rooms. For instance, Gaines used them in both the foyer and dining room of the "Mini Reni" project to foster cohesion and add woven accents throughout the home. For those looking to replicate this style, specific product recommendations, such as "TwoPages Natural No Drill Roman Shades," are highlighted for their easy installation and timeless aesthetic. While Roman shades are a popular choice, it's important to consider their suitability for individual home aesthetics and window types. The article acknowledges that they might not be universally applicable but emphasizes the variety of styles available to cater to different interior designs. Flat Roman shades, for example, are suggested for their slim profile, making them ideal for French doors or shallow windows. Natural Roman shades, crafted from materials like wood, jute, reed, or bamboo, are presented as an option for an organic look, mirroring Gaines's preference. Another elegant variation is the cascading Roman shade, which creates a "waterfall" effect with its folds, a technique also utilized by Gaines. Ultimately, the article positions Roman shades as a sophisticated and enduring window treatment option, endorsed by a prominent design figure like Joanna Gaines. It encourages homeowners to explore the diverse styles available to find a solution that not only meets their functional needs but also elevates their home's design with a classic and stylish touch. #JoannaGaines #RomanShades #WindowTreatments #HomeDesignTrends #InteriorDesign #MagnoliaHome #DesignInspiration #ClassicDecor #HomeImprovement

Joanna Gaines, known for her role in HGTV's "Fixer Upper" and the Magnolia brand, is celebrated for her timeless home design, which seamlessly blends modern farmhouse aesthetics with classic elements. While her signature style often incorporates reclaimed wood beams, shiplap walls, and unique textures, Gaines also emphasizes the significant impact of well-chosen window treatments on a room's overall feel. She believes window treatments are not merely functional but essential for creating a curated and lived-in home environment. Gaines' distinctive approach to window treatments is characterized by minimalism and authenticity. She purposefully avoids overly bold prints or flashy hardware, instead favoring natural materials, neutral color palettes, and layered designs. These choices create depth and dimension without overwhelming the space, ensuring that the window treatments complement the room's design rather than dominating it. Examples include soft linen panels that gently pool on hardwood floors and woven wood shades that introduce an earthy texture. Occasionally, Gaines opts to leave windows bare, particularly in spaces abundant with natural light, allowing the architectural features to stand out. However, when she does incorporate window treatments, they are meticulously selected to enhance the space. The article highlights several window treatment ideas inspired by Joanna Gaines' style. One notable suggestion is wood bifold shutters, which Gaines showcased in "Fixer Upper." These custom shutters offer both character and functionality, allowing for privacy when closed and ample sunlight when open. Matching them with other wood elements in the home creates a cohesive and integrated look. Roman shades are another favored choice, often seen in neutral colors and simple fabrics like linen or woven wool in Gaines' renovation projects. These shades provide a light, airy, and functional solution, blending the sophistication of drapery with the tailored appearance of blinds. Long, floor-length curtains are utilized by Gaines to introduce warmth and a layered aesthetic to living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas. Hanging these panels higher on the wall can create the illusion of taller ceilings, and allowing them to pool slightly on the floor adds a touch of drama to any space. A more unconventional but equally charming idea is reeded glass film, which Gaines featured in her show "Mini Reni." This cost-effective film imparts a vintage look, offers privacy, and allows natural light to filter through, with the added benefit of easy installation and removal. Cafe curtains, or tier curtains, are recommended for their nostalgic charm, covering only the lower half of a window. Gaines often uses sheer, lightweight cafe curtains in farmhouse kitchens or laundry rooms to strike a balance between privacy and natural light, often paired with vintage-inspired rods or brass hardware. For a more elaborate design, Gaines occasionally employs a layered approach, combining Roman shades (made from soft linen or woven bamboo) with neutral, floor-length drapes. This combination provides structure and privacy from the shades, while the drapes add movement and coziness, resulting in a warm and sophisticated ensemble. Finally, the article mentions Gaines' alternative to traditional window treatments: a tiled accent wall. This option, ideal for homes with private backyards, enhances natural light and creates an open, airy feel. Arranging rectangular tiles in a checkered pattern can also visually enlarge a space by giving the impression of a taller ceiling. These diverse ideas demonstrate Gaines' versatility and commitment to thoughtful design in every aspect of a home. #JoannaGaines #WindowTreatments #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ModernFarmhouse #DesignInspiration #DIYHomeDecor #FixerUpper

Color profoundly influences the atmosphere of a space, offering an accessible and affordable means of transformation. While the sheer volume of room color ideas can be overwhelming, the launch of new ultra-premium paint colors by Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines, inspired by her Lakehouse project in Lake Waco, Texas, presents a curated solution. This 'Lakehouse Collection' features seven versatile, durable, and high-quality paint finishes designed to evoke the serenity of lakeside living through a simple, timeless, and nature-inspired palette. The author, Jennifer Ebert, highlights five specific colors from this collection that resonated with her nostalgic appreciation for retro charm while remaining suitable for contemporary interiors, offering a subtle nod to 1970s aesthetics. The first color, 'Remote Trail,' is a nature-inspired green celebrated for its uplifting and tranquil qualities. This sophisticated shade, with subtle blue and gray undertones, offers soothing properties akin to sage green, promoting calmness and well-being. Experts emphasize its ability to connect indoor spaces with the natural world, particularly effective in threshold areas or when used on wallpapers and furnishings. Joanna Gaines describes it as a 'vintage shade of green that makes you stop and stare in awe.' 'Tranquil Waters' is presented as a versatile gray, offering gravitas without the starkness of white. This deeply pigmented shade is warm, welcoming, and adapts to different lighting conditions, creating a cozy and dramatic effect in darker applications or a sanctuary of calm in lighter ones. It serves as an excellent neutral base that harmonizes with various hues and can be enlivened with accent colors and textures. Gaines notes its ability to translate the comfort and timelessness of calming lake waters into an interior space. Design professionals suggest choosing warmer grays, especially those with green or blue undertones, and pairing them with natural materials to avoid a cold aesthetic. For those seeking a deep, captivating marine blue, 'Superior' offers a relaxed yet bold choice. This historic hue seamlessly integrates into contemporary interiors, providing a sophisticated backdrop for other colors and cherished objects. Interior designers recommend true blues for frequently used spaces or areas dedicated to relaxation, noting their dynamic appearance under different light conditions. Blue is also highlighted as a wonderfully gender-neutral color, with advice to select warmer blue tones for north-facing rooms to enhance coziness. Gaines encourages brave, all-over application of this color to create impactful, story-telling spaces. 'Cognac' is a warm, grounding, and versatile earthy brown. This dark neutral combines grounding qualities with true sophistication, working powerfully on its own or as a backdrop for other hues. Its nostalgic yet comforting and feminine appeal is noted. Edward Bulmer, an interior designer, praises its 'polychromatic' nature, making it compatible with various patterns and flattering to complexions due to its warm glow. This gentle shade avoids darkening rooms with limited natural light. Finally, 'Juniper Tree' is another calming, restorative green rooted in nature. This alluring pale green is described as refreshing and uplifting, echoing a gentle summer breeze. Its enduring popularity in interior decorating stems from its mood-enhancing properties and versatility. Interior designers appreciate its ability to work in any room and pair with numerous colors, serving as a quiet neutral that can subtly support or prominently feature in a color scheme. Its classic, calming presence is synonymous with nature, ensuring peace and tranquility in an interior. #JoannaGaines #PaintColors #InteriorDesign #RetroPalette #HomeDecor #ColorTrends #MagnoliaHome #LakehouseCollection #VintageStyle

Joanna Gaines, a prominent figure in home design, has consistently influenced design trends for over a decade, transitioning from the modern farmhouse aesthetic to a more vintage-inspired look that incorporates historical elements with contemporary touches. Her expertise is particularly evident in kitchen design, where she excels at creating functional and inviting spaces. This article compiles various kitchen color combinations favored by Gaines, offering inspiration for those looking to refresh their own kitchens. One of Gaines' staple combinations for kitchens, especially smaller ones, involves white upper cabinets paired with darker lower cabinets. She recommends using creamy, neutral whites like 'Shiplap' or 'Silos White' from her Magnolia Home Paint collection for upper cabinets, backsplash, and walls to create a bright, clean, and versatile backdrop. For galley kitchens or smaller spaces, she suggests painting lower cabinets in darker hues such as navy or charcoal to create an illusion of greater space. Examples of suitable dark paints from her collection include 'Aspen Stone' for a chalky black, 'Times Past' for a dark gray, or 'Moments' for a deep chocolate brown. Another favored palette incorporates mossy, earthy greens with off-white tones, reflecting a broader trend towards nature-inspired colors and biophilic design. Gaines particularly likes 'Magnolia Green' for kitchen cabinets, emphasizing its ability to add an unexpected pop of color. When paired with off-white, these greens lend depth and visual interest without overwhelming the space. Alternatively, one can paint walls mossy green while keeping off-white cabinets. Other green options from her collection include 'Celery Seeds' for an avocado green or 'Luxe' for a deep gray with green undertones. Building on the green theme, Gaines has also embraced dark, almost black-green colors, often balancing them with soft, off-white hues that have a putty-like quality. An instance of this is her use of 'Cottage Grove,' a deep navy with green undertones, in a butler's pantry, contrasted with 'Castle Cream,' a soft white with yellow undertones, for the walls. This combination, part of her Castle Collection, creates a dramatic yet cozy atmosphere. For those seeking alternatives, 'Step Stool Green' (dark olive) or 'Estate' (dark sage with gray undertones) are also available. While less common for her, Gaines uses blue and white combinations for clients with a more playful and bold style. She has previously designed kitchens with blue lower cabinets and white uppers, incorporating elements like raw wood vent hoods and clear glass pendant lights to add character and modernity. The Magnolia Home Paint collection offers various blue shades, such as 'Signature' (dark denim), 'Sir Drake' (gray with blue-green base), and 'Winter Solstice' (iciness bluish-gray), to achieve this look. A classic black and white scheme is also among Gaines' preferences, particularly for bright kitchens with ample natural light. She implemented this palette in the Magnolia House bed and breakfast, featuring white cabinets, shiplap walls, dark concrete countertops, and black industrial open shelving. For lower cabinets, she suggests dark blacks like 'Blackboard' (chalky black with blue undertones) or 'Fine Black' (slight gray cast), or slate gray tones like 'Arches.' Finally, Gaines frequently designs kitchens with wooden cabinetry, which she pairs with crisp whites. This approach prevents the wood from appearing dated or visually heavy, creating a clean, contemporary aesthetic. She recommends selecting white shades with yellow undertones, such as 'Shiplap' or 'One Horn White,' to imbue the space with warmth and a welcoming feel. This combination was notably used in the Gristmill, the set of her cooking show, featuring white oak cabinetry and whitewashed stone walls. #JoannaGaines #KitchenDesign #ColorCombinations #MagnoliaHome #PaintColors #InteriorDesign #ModernFarmhouse #HomeRenovation #DesignInspiration

Joanna Gaines, known for popularizing the "modern farmhouse" style through her home makeover show, frequently incorporated shiplap and wood paneling in her designs, particularly in kitchens and even on staircases. While these elements initially offered a rustic and cozy aesthetic, their widespread use has led to a perception of being dated and overdone. The article highlights that excessive application of shiplap can make a home feel cluttered rather than warm. Dustin Wince, Director of Estimating and Preconstruction at BOLT Builders, views this style as tacky, suggesting it can create a busy appearance and detract from other architectural features if not executed properly. In contrast to the perceived decline of shiplap and wood boards, clean painted drywall is reasserting itself as a preferred choice for home interiors. Drywall, which has always been a fundamental element in home design, has regained prominence as modern styling trends favor minimalism and simplicity. Its smooth surface provides a neutral canvas that complements various furniture and decorative styles without creating visual conflict. The versatility of drywall allows it to integrate seamlessly into diverse design themes, from minimalist to midcentury or even updated modern farmhouse looks, with the right paint choices. From a practical perspective, drywall offers significant advantages in terms of maintenance compared to wood paneling. Shiplap and wood boards are susceptible to warping, cracking, and accumulating dust, requiring more consistent upkeep. Painted drywall, however, is easier to clean, typically needing only a simple wipe-down. Furthermore, strategic paint color selection can help mask wear and tear, reducing the frequency of repainting and simplifying long-term maintenance. This ease of care and adaptability contribute to drywall's renewed status as a practical and aesthetically appealing option for contemporary home interiors. #JoannaGaines #HomeImprovement #DIY #InteriorDesign #Shiplap #WoodPaneling #Drywall #ModernFarmhouse #DesignTrends #HomeDecor

The article addresses the recent closure of all 800 Joann Fabrics locations across 49 states, a significant event for crafters in the U.S. Despite this loss, the article highlights numerous alternative retailers that continue to offer a wide range of craft supplies, including fabrics, often with competitive prices and deals. The objective is to guide consumers on where to find materials for their crafting needs and how to save money in the process, emphasizing that the crafting community still has many viable options. The article begins by acknowledging the impact of Joann Fabrics' departure and then introduces several popular alternatives. Michaels is presented as a major craft retailer known for weekly coupons, custom framing services, and a rewards program, which has recently expanded its fabric inventory. Hobby Lobby, while often associated with home decor, is noted for its extensive selection of craft supplies, including fabric by the yard, and frequent discounts through its weekly ads. Blick Art Materials, a long-standing and prominent art supplier, offers a diverse range of items from fabric and sewing supplies to mosaics and canvases, with deals on various fabric products. Walmart is identified as a surprising yet comprehensive option for craft supplies, boasting a vast arts and crafts section with hundreds of fabric choices, some stores even providing in-store fabric cutting services. The article mentions Walmart's fabric prices, which can be as low as 37 cents per yard, and suggests joining Walmart+ for additional savings on delivery and gas. Craft Outlet is introduced as an online store primarily known for ribbons and floral deals but also offering a variety of fabrics like deco mesh in bulk, often with discounts in its Overstocked section and free shipping for larger orders. Hancock's of Paducah, a family-owned online fabric store, is highlighted for its nationwide and international shipping, daily fabric sales, and a wide array of popular fabric brands at competitive prices. Fabric Depot, another online retailer, caters to sewing experts with its extensive collection of apparel, home decor, and craft fabrics, offering options to purchase entire bolts or small swatches, along with a clearance section featuring significant discounts and a rewards program. Finally, Craft Warehouse is recommended for those seeking vintage fabrics and quilting supplies, providing unique patterns for apparel or home decor, and offering a monthly discount code for savings. In addition to detailing these alternatives, the article includes practical financial tips for preparing for economic uncertainty, such as building an emergency fund, comparing rates on major expenses like auto insurance, delaying non-essential purchases, and exploring side hustles. These tips aim to help readers manage their finances effectively while continuing to pursue their crafting hobbies. The overarching message is that while Joann Fabrics is no longer available, the crafting market remains vibrant with many retailers offering good selections and opportunities for savings. #CraftingAlternatives #FabricStores #CraftSupplies #ShoppingTips #EconomicUncertainty #HomeDecor #DIYProjects #SavingMoney #Retailers

The author, a writer for Realtor.com®, chronicles her personal home renovation journey, detailing how she applied design advice gleaned from popular reality TV home improvement experts like Chip and Joanna Gaines, Christina Haack, Jonathan and Drew Scott, and others. The renovation of her 1927 English Tudor-style home in San Francisco, purchased in 2020, took place throughout most of 2021, transforming a property that had not been updated in decades. The overall footprint of the two-story, four-bedroom, two-bathroom, 2,230-square-foot house was maintained, but the floor plan was adjusted, and every surface was touched. One of the core principles applied was to design for real life rather than solely for resale value, a concept championed by "Home Town" star Erin Napier. Since the author and her husband intend to grow old in the house with their two young children, decisions were made to suit their family's current and future needs. This included converting a formal extra bedroom into a flexible space that can function as a home office, as recommended by Brian and Mika Kleinschmidt of "100 Day Dream Home." The renovation also embraced open spaces, removing a wall between the kitchen and dining room and widening openings to the foyer and living room, allowing children to be visible and connected while parents work, cook, and clean, aligning with Shea McGee's insights from "Dream Home Makeover." Russell Holmes of "Renovation Impossible" reinforced the idea that value extends beyond monetary appraisal to include enjoyment. The kitchen, a key area for return on investment, received significant attention, particularly the island. Christina Haack of "Christina on the Coast" inspired the decision to install a large, oversized kitchen island. The author opted for a 7-foot by 5.5-foot slab of Calacatta gold marble with bold veining, which, despite its cost, became a central feature for family dinners and gatherings. The selection of materials prioritized timelessness over fleeting trends, a recommendation from Dave and Jenny Marrs of "Fixer to Fabulous: Italiano." The use of honed marble for countertops and backsplash, with continuous gray veins and a matte finish, paired with brushed-brass fixtures, aimed for classic durability, ensuring the white-on-white kitchen would remain stylish and functional for years. Preserving original architectural details was another important aspect of the renovation. Despite the extensive overhaul, elements like antique doors, knobs, a cast-iron bathtub, multi-paned windows, and sections of the hardwood floor were retained. Where original features were missing or unusable, efforts were made to re-create the look, such as with crown molding and tall baseboards. Joanna Gaines highlighted the cost-saving benefit of salvaging original items, while Clint Harp emphasized that blending old and new elements creates a desirable design balance, allowing appreciation for timeless pieces. Strategic splurging was advised by Tamara Day of "Bargain Mansions" and Michel Smith Boyd of "Luxe for Less," who suggested investing in frequently used items like sofas. The author and her husband prioritized a comfortable sectional from Room & Board, featuring a durable, custom green upholstery. Personal preferences guided interior decor choices, adhering to Jonathan Adler's rule: "Forget the rules. If you love it, it will work." This led to an olive-green couch matching her husband's vintage truck and pink accents inspired by "Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge" judge Tiffany Brooks. The downstairs powder room was a space for bold experimentation, featuring a palm print wallpaper reminiscent of the Beverly Hills Hotel, a tip supported by Alison Victoria of "Windy City Rehab." Careful consideration was given to paint colors, drawing inspiration from Keith Bynum of "Bargain Block" for exterior curb appeal and Tamara Day for interior lighting nuances. The home's exterior features a cream base with dark chocolate trim, while the interior is painted in Cool December by Dunn-Edwards Paints, providing a neutral backdrop for colorful decor. Finally, decluttering practices, inspired by Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent of "The Nate and Jeremiah Home Project" and Jean Stoffer of "The Established Home," were implemented, encouraging the retention of only cherished items and minimizing horizontal surface clutter, with a realistic acknowledgment of managing everyday mess, as even Marie Kondo admits. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #RealityTV #HomeImprovement #KitchenDesign #TimelessDecor #DeclutteringTips

The author, Linda Clayton, a journalist with over 20 years of experience writing about kitchens and design trends, shares her personal regrets from four kitchen renovations. Despite her extensive knowledge, she admits to being susceptible to popular kitchen trends, which often led to unexpected functional downsides. The article details seven specific trends she wishes she had avoided and offers alternative choices she would make if she were to renovate again, emphasizing the importance of functionality and timeless design over fleeting fads. The first regret centers on fancy chef-style taps, which, despite their professional appearance, proved to be too tall, powerful, and cumbersome for practical daily use in a small kitchen. Instead, she now advocates for boiling water taps that offer hot, cold, and boiling water from a single spout, often with a convenient pull-out spray hose without the splashback issues. Her second regret involves real marble worktops. Despite being warned about its porous nature and susceptibility to scratches and stains, she installed them. The marble quickly developed water and acid marks that proved almost impossible to clean, especially in a south-facing kitchen where every flaw was highlighted. She now recommends marble-look quartz or porcelain alternatives, or at least ensuring proper and frequent sealing for real marble. The third trend she regrets is engineered wood floors. While appreciating their warmth and forgiveness compared to stone or tile, she found them high-maintenance and prone to staining from water, especially with planters and pets. She suggests luxury vinyl flooring for its resilience or porcelain tiles with underfloor heating for comfort and durability. Fully integrated fridges constitute her fourth regret. Driven by a minimalist aesthetic, she found that integrated fridges significantly reduced internal capacity compared to freestanding models, making storage difficult. The heavy, difficult-to-adjust doors and the complexity of repair access were additional frustrations. She now prefers freestanding fridges for their spaciousness and ease of maintenance. Butler sinks are the fifth regret. While charming, their deep bowls proved ergonomically challenging, causing back strain, particularly for taller individuals, and making tasks like vegetable preparation messy due to the need to work on the countertop. She advises against enamelled steel models due to staining and etching. For future kitchens, she would opt for an undermounted stainless steel sink, ideally in a utility room at a lower height if a butler sink aesthetic is desired. Dark painted cabinets represent her sixth regret. While stylish and sophisticated, they proved to be magnets for fingerprints, dust, and smudges, requiring constant cleaning, especially in a busy household with children or pets. She concludes that lighter, neutral-colored cabinets are significantly easier to maintain, saving time and effort. Finally, massive island units are her seventh regret. After years of desiring a kitchen island, she installed an oversized one in a kitchen extension. While islands are generally beneficial, she found that her particularly large unit created an obstacle, necessitating extra steps and making the kitchen less ergonomic. She would reduce its size to improve flow and provide more space for soft seating, acknowledging that a more compact design or multiple smaller islands could be more effective. The article concludes with advice for choosing timeless kitchen trends: sticking to a neutral palette for cabinets, opting for low-stress surfaces like porcelain, quartz, and stainless steel, and prioritizing function over form. These recommendations aim to help readers design a kitchen that remains enjoyable and practical for years, avoiding common pitfalls and fleeting fashion failures. #KitchenRenovation #KitchenTrends #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #DesignRegrets #FunctionalDesign #TimelessKitchens #KitchenAppliances #KitchenMaterials

Home staging plays a crucial role in selling a property, with research from the National Association of Realtors indicating that over 80% of buyers' agents find it helps clients visualize themselves in the home. Additionally, 20% of these agents reported that staging could increase offer prices by up to 5%. While professional staging services cost an average of $600, according to sellers' agents surveyed, Joanna Gaines offers budget-friendly staging tips to avoid common mistakes that can waste time and money. Gaines, known for her styling advice, emphasizes several key areas where sellers often go wrong. One primary mistake is using too much furniture in a room. She suggests limiting large furniture pieces to a maximum of three per room, as an excessive amount can make a space appear smaller than it is. Another common error is overstuffing closets. While the instinct might be to hide clutter, potential buyers inspect storage space, and overflowing closets can create a negative impression. Instead, Gaines advises decluttering items completely or using discreet storage solutions like under-bed space as a last resort. Regarding personalization, Gaines offers a nuanced perspective. Unlike typical advice to remove all family photos and personal items, she appreciates signs of a well-loved home, believing they can help buyers envision their own families there. However, she cautions against letting one's personal style dominate the space, especially if it's niche, as this could deter potential buyers with different tastes. A balanced approach might involve creating a gallery wall that combines personal photos with more general art to maintain an inviting yet neutral aesthetic. Finally, Gaines stresses the importance of the home's exterior. Sellers often overlook curb appeal, but the outside of the house is the first impression. This includes maintaining the lawn, power washing the exterior, and adding simple touches like fresh flowers to enhance visual appeal. Addressing the exterior helps create an inviting atmosphere from the moment a potential buyer arrives, complementing the efforts made inside the home. By avoiding these common staging mistakes, sellers can more effectively present their homes and appeal to a broader range of buyers. #HomeStaging #JoannaGaines #SellingTips #RealEstate #HomeImprovement #InteriorDesign #CurbAppeal #Decluttering