Clever Disguises for Ugly Garbage Cans Boost Curb Appeal in Brooklyn Front Yards

The article discusses various creative and strategic methods to hide kitchen trash cans, transforming them from unsightly necessities into seamlessly integrated elements of modern kitchen design. It emphasizes that while trash cans are essential, their appearance doesn't have to detract from a kitchen's aesthetic. The core problem addressed is the visual disruption caused by a visible trash can, and the article provides solutions ranging from simple cabinet integration to more decorative and innovative approaches. One primary suggestion is to conceal the trash can behind a cabinet door, particularly within a kitchen island. This method is highly recommended by interior designers like Kristina LoMonaco, who notes that kitchen islands offer ample space for discreet waste management. Emily Henderson's design is cited as a practical example, featuring built-in trash and recycling compartments within an ebony-stained wood island, complete with a side section for bags and a hook for a brush and dustpan. This integration allows for easy access while maintaining a clean, uncluttered look, crucial in a high-traffic area where people gather. Another effective strategy involves placing the trash can under the kitchen sink. This location is highlighted for its convenience, especially for food waste, and its logical connection to kitchen activities like washing dishes. The author shares a personal experience of moving a food waste bin from a window ledge to under the sink, which freed up space for plants and improved the visual flow to the backyard. The under-sink area is often underutilized due to plumbing, making it an ideal spot for cleaning supplies and, by extension, a trash can. It is noted that this might require a smaller trash can, which can encourage more efficient recycling habits. For those not undergoing a renovation, the article suggests disguising the bin altogether using decorative covers. Kristina LoMonaco recommends investing in aesthetically pleasing options like large woven baskets with lids, aligning with current kitchen trends that merge utility with style. Genevieve Ghaleb further supports this by suggesting that utilitarian objects can be transformed into decor by using elegant vases or chinoiserie umbrella stands to conceal trash, shifting the focus from function to visual appeal. An adaptable and stylish solution presented is the addition of a mini curtain cover. Cafe curtains, traditionally used for windows, have gained popularity for concealing less attractive areas in utility rooms or kitchens. This method can impart a traditional or farmhouse feel, or a more minimalist aesthetic depending on the fabric choice, such as neutral linen. The ease of DIY installation—requiring only a rod and brackets—makes it a practical and charming option that adds softness and texture to the space. The article also explores integrated solutions like tilt-out trash cans. These mechanisms allow the trash can to be seamlessly pulled out from a cabinet, making them particularly suitable for Shaker-style kitchens. Often made of wood, these designs contribute to a rustic feel and offer easy access due to adhesive-attached trash cans to the cabinet door. For minimalist kitchens, a garbage flap, commonly seen in coffee shops, is proposed. This involves a cutout in the counter through which waste can be discarded directly into a hidden bin below, eliminating the need to pull out the bin. An example is given of a laundry chute accessed via a flap, illustrating how this concept can be applied to kitchen trash. Matching the flap's hardware with existing kitchen metals or the overall palette ensures a cohesive look. Finally, the article suggests embracing the trash can's presence by choosing a stylish freestanding design. Kristina LoMonaco points out that stainless steel bins with lids can effectively conceal trash. While these often have an industrial aesthetic, they can be a practical and modern solution for kitchens with a contemporary or minimalist style, where the design itself becomes a virtue, minimizing the focus on its utilitarian function. #KitchenDesign #HomeOrganization #InteriorDesign #StorageSolutions #KitchenTrends #DIYHome #SustainableLiving

This article discusses an innovative approach to street furniture design that addresses the common urban problem of graffiti. Several years ago, the Times Square Alliance in New York commissioned various designers to create street furniture for the area. Among these contributions was a series called "The Village" by industrial designer Joe Doucet's JDXP. "The Village" series is characterized by its "totemic structures" that are designed to evoke the iconic New York skyline. These structures utilize soaring heights and bright colors, making them highly visible amidst the bustling crowds of Times Square. The design choice aimed to create a distinctive visual presence while serving a functional purpose within the urban landscape. A key aspect of Doucet's design, and the central focus of this article, is the material selection. The structures were notably constructed using metal wire. This choice might initially seem unusual for street furniture, prompting inquiry into the designer's rationale. It is revealed that the use of wire was a deliberate and practical solution to mitigate vandalism, specifically graffiti. The traditional problem with broad, flat surfaces in urban environments is their susceptibility to being used as canvases for graffiti artists. By employing a metal wire construction, Doucet effectively eliminated the large, continuous surfaces that graffiti typically requires. This material strategy not only serves an anti-vandalism purpose but also contributes to the aesthetic quality of the installations. The wire construction imparts a sense of lightness to the presence of the structures within Times Square, preventing them from appearing overly massive or intrusive in a densely populated area. This dual benefit of discouraging graffiti and enhancing visual lightness highlights a thoughtful and context-aware design process. The article implicitly emphasizes the importance of material science and strategic design in urban planning and public installations. It demonstrates how a seemingly simple material choice can have significant implications for both the functionality and maintenance of public infrastructure, directly addressing persistent challenges like urban blight and vandalism. Doucet's "The Village" serves as an example of how designers can creatively overcome common urban issues through innovative material application and design thinking. #StreetFurniture #GraffitiPrevention #UrbanDesign #MaterialSelection #PublicArt #IndustrialDesign #NewYorkCity #TimesSquare

The article introduces dust corners, a century-old Victorian-era home accessory that is gaining renewed popularity for its practical and aesthetic benefits. These small, triangular metal pieces are designed to fit into the corners of stairs and other areas of the home, primarily to prevent the accumulation of dust and dirt. The author highlights the common challenge of vacuuming hard-to-reach stair corners and presents dust corners as an elegant solution to this persistent household chore. The concept was brought to the author's attention by Jennifer Rothbury, a digital home decor creator and DIY expert known as "Crack the Shutters" on Instagram. Jennifer recently shared a video demonstrating how these metal details can easily be installed in stair corners, enhancing their appearance while simplifying cleaning. The installation process is described as straightforward, requiring only a tack through the center and a light tap to secure the corner piece, making it accessible even for those without extensive DIY skills. Dust corners offer a vintage-inspired charm, making them suitable for traditional homes or for those looking to incorporate classic elements into modern interiors. They are available in various metallic finishes, such as bronze for an aged look or brighter metallic options for a more contemporary shine, allowing them to complement a wide range of interior aesthetics. The author also mentions a previous fascination with "Skiffer hardware" for furniture corners, indicating a general appreciation for subtle yet impactful home upgrades. Beyond their functional purpose of making cleaning easier by preventing dust buildup, dust corners are also celebrated for their decorative qualities. Jennifer Rothbury notes that these additions make a lovely detail and can make a home feel more established and full of character. The article emphasizes their dual role as both a practical solution to a common household problem and an inexpensive way to add a touch of sophistication, comparing them to "jewelry for your stairs." The article also includes shopping links for various dust corner products, specifying prices, finishes, and the number of pieces in a set, making it easy for readers to acquire these items. #DustCorners #HomeOrganization #StaircaseDesign #VictorianDecor #DIYHomeImprovement #CleaningHacks #InteriorAccessories #VintageInspired

Traditional kitchen trash cans are often considered an unsightly necessity within homes, tasked with the critical role of waste containment. Despite their functional importance, their aesthetic appeal is typically minimal, leading many homeowners to simply tolerate their presence. However, a creative solution originating from IKEA enthusiasts has emerged, offering a discreet and more appealing alternative to the standard exposed trash can. This innovation centers around the IKEA GÅRDSBUTIK bin, which, though not initially marketed as a garbage container, has been repurposed for this use due to its design and practicality. The GÅRDSBUTIK bin is distinguished by its sleek, modern aesthetic and is constructed from over 50% recycled plastic, aligning with eco-friendly consumer preferences. It comes in a versatile gray-beige color, making it suitable for various kitchen decors. The bin's dimensions are approximately 18 inches high, 14 inches wide, and 8 inches deep, with a capacity of six gallons. It is equipped with two adhesive strips and hooks, allowing it to be securely mounted to a wall or the side of a counter. A built-in handle facilitates easy removal, emptying, and cleaning. A significant advantage of its mounted design is the elimination of the common issue of food debris accumulating behind traditional floor-standing garbage cans, contributing to a cleaner and more hygienic kitchen environment. The adaptability of the GÅRDSBUTIK bin allows for various placement options within the kitchen. Many users opt to mount it at the end of kitchen counters, a space frequently underutilized, or on kitchen islands, either singly or in pairs. For homes with sufficient wall space, the bins can also be stacked vertically without obstructing access, an arrangement particularly beneficial for households with young children, as it keeps trash out of reach. When used for waste, the bin can accommodate a six-gallon garbage bag, which can be easily lifted out for disposal into larger outdoor receptacles. While some users note the smaller capacity of the GÅRDSBUTIK bin may not be ideal for larger households, this characteristic can inadvertently encourage reduced waste generation or more frequent trash disposal. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reports an average daily waste production of 4.9 pounds per person in the U.S., suggesting that a smaller bin might prompt individuals to become more mindful of their waste habits. Additionally, the need for more frequent emptying could mitigate lingering odors. This approach also subtly promotes upcycling and creative reuse of everyday items, such as transforming oatmeal containers into decorative storage, further contributing to a reduction in household waste. #IKEASolutions #KitchenOrganization #HomeImprovement #WasteManagement #KitchenDesign #SpaceSaving #EcoFriendly #HomeDecor

This article details the transformation of an 1880s brownstone in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn, from a dilapidated four-unit apartment building into a spacious and modern single-family home with a distinct farmhouse aesthetic. Children's clothing designer Odette Williams and her spouse Nick Law embarked on this extensive renovation project after purchasing the property, which had been vacant for years and was in a state of disrepair. The primary goal was to gut the entire structure and reimagine the living spaces to suit a contemporary family lifestyle while preserving some of the home's original character. The renovation began with the expertise of architect Lorraine Bonaventura. A significant structural change involved blowing out the back wall of the house. This modification allowed for the installation of a 12-foot-wide set of glass accordion doors on the parlor level, effectively opening the indoor living space to the outdoors and enhancing natural light and ventilation. This design decision contributed significantly to the open and airy feel that the owners desired. Inside, the project involved uncovering and salvaging original features. Layers of old linoleum were removed, revealing wide pine floorboards that were carefully stored and later reinstalled. The home's original staircase, along with its handrails and balusters, was also preserved and integrated into the new design, maintaining a connection to the building's historical roots. The kitchen became a focal point of the renovation, designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing with a farmhouse flair. A centerpiece of this space is a 500-pound AGA stove, which required significant effort to install, including the use of four movers and additional structural supports to accommodate its weight. The stove was strategically placed amidst IKEA cabinets, demonstrating a blend of high-end elements with more accessible design choices. This approach reflects Odette Williams' philosophy of incorporating one significant 'prop' to elevate the overall design, drawing from her background in theater design. The upper levels of the brownstone were also thoughtfully designed. The master bedroom exemplifies minimalism, furnished with only essential pieces such as a bed, side tables, and a rug. This simplicity creates a serene and uncluttered environment. For their four children, daughter Opal and son Ned share a room featuring bunk beds, optimizing space and creating a shared experience. The children's upstairs bathroom includes a distinctive trough sink, sourced from Demolition Depot in Harlem, adding a unique touch to a practical space. Overall, the renovation successfully converted a neglected multi-unit building into a cohesive and inviting single-family residence. The design blends modern open-plan living with elements of farmhouse style, achieved through careful architectural interventions, thoughtful material choices, and the integration of unique fixtures and fittings. The project highlights how strategic design decisions and a clear vision can transform a challenging property into a dream home. #CobbleHill #BrownstoneRenovation #FarmhouseStyle #InteriorDesign #BrooklynHome #ResidentialArchitecture #HomeTransformation #HistoricPreservation

Interior design expert Bobby Berk offers a straightforward and renter-friendly solution to disguise unattractive ceiling light fixtures, often referred to as 'boob lights.' These fixtures are a common complaint in many homes and especially challenging to alter in rental properties where major modifications are typically not allowed. Berk's hack involves using a light diffusing shade to cover the existing fixture, instantly transforming the aesthetic and improving the ambiance of a room. The specific product highlighted is a Drum light shade from Tulip Shades. The company itself was reportedly founded out of a need to address these very 'boob lights.' These shades are designed for easy installation without the need for any tools, making them an ideal choice for renters. Bobby Berk shared an example from a team member's apartment, where the landlord prohibited replacing the light fixture. The Tulip Shade allowed the team member to mask the undesirable light, and the shade can be easily removed, with only minor spackling required to fill any small holes upon moving out. The benefits of this solution extend beyond mere concealment. Harsh overhead lighting can negatively impact a room's atmosphere. By using a light-diffusing shade, the light is softened, creating a warmer and more inviting space. Interior designer Suzanne Duin emphasizes the role of texture in achieving this effect, noting that the natural gaps in woven cotton shades, like those from Tulip Shades, create a cozy glow and allow the lamp to serve as a design statement even when turned off. Furthermore, these Tulip Shades are versatile and can be used with various lighting types, including raw bulbs, presenting a 'one size fits all' approach to common lighting dilemmas. The article encourages readers to adopt this simple and affordable hack to elevate their home's decor and improve the quality of light. Beyond Tulip Shades, the article also suggests other ambient lampshade options for hanging light fixtures, such as simple cotton shades for diffusion or paper origami shades for a more unique and striking look. Examples provided include a natural linen lampshade, a feather lamp shade, and a paper sphere pendant shade, offering a range of styles and price points. #BobbyBerk #LightFixtures #RentalDecor #HomeImprovement #InteriorDesign #LightingHacks #DIYDecor #RoomTransformation #TulipShades

This review article evaluates ten top-ranked kitchen trash cans from various brands including Glad, Rubbermaid, Simplehuman, and Amazon Basics, following an initial research of 40 models. The testing process involved side-by-side comparisons in residential settings, focusing on key metrics such as odor containment, ease of cleaning, and bag removal and replacement. The objective was to identify trash cans that not only efficiently manage waste but also integrate seamlessly with kitchen aesthetics. The Amazon Basics Rectangle Soft-Close is highlighted as the best overall kitchen trash can. This 13-gallon stainless steel model excels in odor containment and ease of cleaning, featuring a removable plastic liner for spills and an anti-bag-slip design that tucks bags discreetly. Its price point is significantly lower than some competitors while offering comparable features. For those seeking a dual-purpose solution, the Home Zone Living 16 Gallon Dual Recycling & Trash is recognized as the best dual trash and recycling receptacle. This model features two compartments with separate foot pedals, soft-close lids, and effective odor-blocking capabilities. While it has a larger footprint and a higher price, its convenience and sleek design are noted. The Rubbermaid Premier Series Step-On is identified as the best value option. This affordable plastic trash can offers a soft-close lid, a wide foot pedal, and a Liner-Lock feature to secure bags. However, it lacks robust odor containment compared to higher-end models and is lighter, making it prone to being moved or knocked over. The Simplehuman Rectangular Step Can is praised for its aesthetics and performance. This stainless steel can effectively contains odors and includes a built-in trash bag dispenser, offering a premium look. Its cost is higher, and it may require proprietary trash bags for continued use of the dispenser. Durability concerns related to potential lid denting are also noted. The Glad 13 Gallon Stainless with Clorox Odor Protection is recommended for its superior bag-holding mechanism. Metal arms lock the trash bag in place, preventing slippage, and it includes a built-in bag compartment. The Clorox odor protection in the lid helps inhibit bacterial growth. A drawback is the loudness of the metal bag holders and a less sturdy lid. The testing methodology involved a detailed evaluation across six performance metrics: Ease of Use, Odor Containment, Bag Placement and Removal, Ease of Cleaning, Durability, and Aesthetics. These metrics were weighted to contribute to an overall score. Odor containment was rigorously tested using warm sauerkraut and soiled baby diapers. Ease of cleaning involved simulating spills, while durability tests included knocking cans over and repeatedly using foot pedals. Aesthetic judgments were made objectively, considering how well the cans blended with modern home decor. The article also provides a guide on how to choose a trash can, covering considerations such as capacity based on household size, different opening methods (foot pedal, touchless, open top), material (metal vs. plastic), and the importance of odor containment, especially in smaller spaces. The review aims to assist consumers in making informed purchasing decisions for a functional and aesthetically pleasing kitchen trash can. #KitchenAppliances #TrashCanReview #HomeOrganization #OdorControl #ProductTesting #KitchenEssentials #RecyclingSolutions #HomeDecor #CleaningEfficiency

This blog post details a recent guerrilla marketing campaign in New York City showcasing Kvadrat Febrik's Myr and Mylla textiles. These textiles, designed by Stockholm's Note Design Studio, were featured as large, colorful pillows placed on sidewalks, against bollards, and buildings throughout the city. The campaign aimed to introduce a sense of softness and visual interest into the urban environment. Myr and Mylla are double-jacquard upholstery textiles made from polyester yarn derived from plastic bottles, highlighting a commitment to sustainability. Myr is characterized by a nubby, organically irregular surface that resembles natural topographies such as mangrove wetlands or coral. Its design features wider spacing between non-directional stitches, allowing the high-bulk filling yarn to create a voluminous, almost quilted texture that can be described as braille-like. In contrast, Mylla offers a smoother surface while still maintaining the core of high-bulk filling yarn and non-directional stitches. Both textiles present a unique visual effect: from a distance, their saturated yet muted colorways appear solid, but upon closer inspection, a two-tone mélange becomes apparent. This creates an "imperfectly perfect" aesthetic, blending subtle complexity with a seemingly solid appearance. The initiative effectively brought these innovative and environmentally conscious fabrics to public attention in a novel and engaging manner, illustrating their distinctive textures and sustainable origins through an interactive urban display. #KvadratFebrik #TextileDesign #NYCDesign #SustainableMaterials #UpholsteryFabrics #NoteDesignStudio #GuerrillaMarketing #ProductShowcase