Beyond Pumpkins and Pine: Fresh Ideas for Tasteful Seasonal Outdoor Design

Whether you use them to record podcasts, maintain a fitness routine or awaken your inner artist, hobby spaces can become places where you unwind, develop skills and participate in meaningful activities. What should you consider when creating a dedicated hobby space in your home? 1. Plan According to the Desired Activities Determine features that can increase convenience. For example, using the room for art projects might mean installing laminate flooring rather than carpeting, which makes it easier to clean up spills. Make room for your full setup and comfy furniture when creating a gaming space. Adding more than one chair supports multiplayer activities. Perhaps you’ll use the hobby room to hone your musical skills and eventually record a home album. Soundproofing panels keep the associated noise in your hobby room. Along with blocking exterior noise, sound-dampening curtains can block up to 95% of incoming light , making them ideal for creating a space for processing film. Activity-specific features can foster creativity by providing what you need to flourish during your favorite pastimes. Planning for the necessities ahead of time can reduce stress, rather than beginning to use the hobby room and realizing it needs to be changed. 2. Choose the Best Place Consider the place in your home that best suits your activities. You may not need a home office due to return-to-office mandates, or you may have an extra room because an adult child moved out. If your home has no unused rooms, maximize any additional space. Reading nooks can double as cozy places for drawing, knitting or writing. Garages are ideal for hobbies such as woodworking, furniture restoration, and sprucing up a car or motorcycle if you’re not using the space. Not only do garages allow for larger spaces to engage in your hobby, but they are typically temperature controlled due to wooden or fiberglass doors providing natural insulation , establishing year-round comfort as you work. 3. Channel Your Interior Designer The room’s appearance can go a long way toward getting your creative juices flowing and making you love spending time in it. Decide whether to have a clear theme or embrace randomness. When selecting colors, designers recommend devoting 60% of the room to a dominant hue. Reserving 30% for a secondary option and the last 10% for accent shades completes the look. Prioritize decorating with things that make you smile despite life’s stresses and distractions. That might mean giving a few action figures or stuffed animals places of honor on a bookshelf or building a gallery wall featuring travel photos. 4. Allow Space for Shared Activities Some of the most meaningful creative endeavors happen with others. You might host a podcast, strengthen your ping-pong skills or paint on canvases with your best friend. Feedback from those you trust can also validate your ideas or illuminate new avenues to explore. It’s wise to plan the hobby space with the intention of spending more time with others. A 2025 survey from arts and crafts retailer Michaels found that 88% of shoppers said crafting increases their quality time with loved ones. To maximize seating in your hobby space, consider stools, benches, and ottomans. Desks that fold into the wall also make the space enjoyable and productive. 5. Simplify Storage to Prevent Clutter If a hobby room becomes cluttered, it is less useful overall, especially if you spend too much time searching for items that enrich the activities. Devise organizational strategies that work for you and what you plan to do in the space. For example, your fitness or yoga routine may need boxes to fit foam blocks, weights and straps, while artists benefit from ample drawers that hold pens, markers, paints and scrapbooking supplies. Storage products that can be moved are ideal if your hobby space occupies part of a larger room. It’s then easier to stow them out of the way to accommodate guests. One expert suggested using a wheeled cart to keep hobby-related items accessible and mobile. Peg boards and over-the-door organizers allow you to store items vertically, leaving more floor space open. Enjoy the Flexible Space For Your Hobbies An adaptable hobby space stays valuable as you continue to pursue activities. Consider the room’s layout, potential for hosting friends and decoration style. Utilize storage systems and move lesser-used items out of the way. Creating an ideal hobby space can allow you to enjoy it for years to come.

Millennials and Gen Z are taking their homes’ interiors to the next level with creative renovations. With bold new looks and sustainable living, the latest interior design trends focus on the individual rather than fitting into previous styles. Here are a few trendy design shifts these generations have popularized. 1. Eco-Conscious Living: Sustainability at the Forefront Sustainability is a top priority for modern living. Recent generations have sought ways to coexist with nature inside their homes. Gen Z and millennials have gotten creative with recycled materials. In particular, upcycling aims to repurpose materials that could improve your home’s design and help the planet. This trend is here to stay. Not only will your home receive a reimagined piece of furniture, flooring or appliance, but you’ll also help reduce landfill waste. There is no shortage of creative ways to incorporate sustainable options into your residence. 2. Personalizing Workspaces In 2019, COVID-19 shifted many workers to remote work. To this day, 43% of Americans work hybridly or fully online. Recent generations have sought ways to make the most of a home office by getting creative with colors, shelves, organizers and more. Make the most of this den by personalizing your home office to optimize your workflow. It can be your personal sanctuary to focus on deep work. With hybrid and completely online jobs becoming more common, there’s no time like the present to start incorporating this latest trend. 3. Spa-Inspired and Wellness-Focused Bathrooms Personal care has come to the forefront of ideal living. You can create a spa-like feel at home with simple updates and save the long and expensive trip to a fancy resort. Simply boost your home’s wellness attributes by refreshing spaces where you relax. One of the best starting points you can update is your bathtub or shower. Each bath you take is a prime time to relax, which becomes increasingly necessary after a long day. However, less modern designs may inhibit some of your relaxation. Bathroom trends are rapidly changing, so an outdated tub can age your bathroom , preventing you from getting the full R&R you need. Rejuvenating your energy levels by welcoming self-care can help you achieve a healthier mindset to prepare for daily stressors. Refreshing your home to match your self-care routines is also an excellent way to become a better you. 4. Bold Colors and Personal Expression Minimalist design used to be at the forefront of interior style. Due to a greater desire for the freedom to express unique interests and creativity, interior design goals have changed. It’s time to get creative with color palettes and bold statement pieces that demand your attention. Additionally, color theory impacts your mood , so you can get adventurous. Recent trends have emphasized certain aspects of a home with accent walls that consist of more vibrant hues like red or purple. With recent focus on jaw-dropping stylistic changes rather than subtle neutrals, this Millennial and Gen Z trend has become a driving force. Your time to shine is here. 5. Biophilic Design: Bringing Nature Indoors With bustling cities on the move, finding time to step into nature can be difficult. However, recent generations have prioritized being surrounded by plants. Studies have shown that having greenery around can improve workflow , making this trend even more frequent in homes. With much focus on personal care and environmental impacts, nothing aligns quite like bringing flower pots and plants into your living spaces. Indoor plants offer unique organic textures and can even be centerpieces. Unlike most accessories you’ll add to personalize your home, these will keep growing. Set up your small or large plant as a focal point for all guests to see. Since incorporating nature offers you a more affordable decorative option that also improves hard work techniques, this trend is far from over. Connecting Across Platforms The biggest motivator behind millennial and Gen Z trends is online influencers. The internet was first thought of in 1962 , but it took off with the generation of millennials. From common search bars to multi-platform social media outlets, there are so many ways you can stay connected to your fellow users. Ideas are easily spread, resulting in long-lasting trends. Designing for the Future As social media continues to flourish, and personalization, bold statements and sustainability are highly valued, these trends will become a priority for renovations. You can always embrace creative directions in your home and discover new ideas by staying connected through easily accessible platforms.

Including innovative technology in your home can seem overwhelming when all you can see are dangling wires and clunky boxes. However, while many believe incorporating smart tech into a residence will lead to overly cluttered spaces, thoughtful design strategies can allow for a more efficient and visually appealing space. Integrating advanced technology has become a crucial aspect of home design. Your residence should be equipped for routine tasks without decreasing its beauty. Here are a few simple tips on making smart tech and stylish designs work for you. 1. Conceal and Integrate Technology As home technology becomes more popular , it is vital to consider smart tech that will complement your interior design. Innovative technology allows you to complete daily activities hands-free with simple voice commands or through your phone. Technology does not have to be a constant eyesore that detracts from your home’s design. Betty Brandolino, the founder and creative director of Home Environments, says, "Homeowners want their spaces to feel warm and inviting , while still benefiting from technology behind the scenes." To reduce the chance that bulky wiring and cabling will detract from your home's design, consult a civil engineer for optimal blueprint planning. This way, before the smart tech is even incorporated, they can consider better routes for built-in cables , wiring in custom cabinetry or hidden panels. 2. Use Seamless Smart Controls for Daily Routines Making the most out of shared spaces with smart technology can help reduce clutter and offer room for new, seamless designs. Advanced technology enables adding easy and innovative system controls to electronic operators and appliances that will offer a polished new look. Here are a few areas to improve: Garage doors: A smart garage door is essential to maximize your home’s exterior. They are seen as necessary by 70% of buyers because of the easy-to-use monitoring and controlling systems. Many styles and color options are available to upgrade its appearance. Washing machines: Incorporate smart washing machines to make doing laundry easier. Their ability to connect to Wi-Fi sources reduces the possibility of nonstop clothes piling up and maintains a cleaner space. Refrigerators: The kitchen is the busiest area of a home. Investing in an advanced smart refrigerator can make cooking easier. Sleek new options can provide easy viewing of the contents inside. 3. Incorporate Smart Lighting for Ambience Make the most of smart tech by updating your lighting control systems. Going from room to room with your hands full will be much easier with smart technology that offers much-needed lighting. Unlike flipping a switch, motion sensors automatically switch on or off when movement is detected. However, smart lighting technology doesn't just stop at motion sensors. You can also invest in timers that control your lights. The best part is that timers help you manage energy usage , so there's minimal risk of your home ever being left in the dark. Innovative lighting technology now also includes dimmers and color-changing bulbs, which can help you add your own spark of creativity. As you work on organizing a functional layout, consider how art pieces and shared living spaces could use an instant refresh with color-changing lights or pot lights. 4. Smart Shades for Natural Lighting Improved smart technologies can be easily connected to your home and managed by voice or other features. Adding innovative window treatments is one of the most functional and visually appealing stylistic changes that can be made. Suzanne Donegan, an interior designer in Santa Monica, California, states: "Clients are starting to prioritize health in their homes and thinking about the areas in particular that impact overall wellness. As a health-informed design consultant, I encourage my clients to invest in smart window coverings in one area in particular — the bedroom. Science has shown the impact that daylight can have on our circadian rhythm. Adaptive smart window coverings help to regulate the body's internal clock, leading to more restorative sleep and more alertness and productivity during the day." Motorized window treatments offer functionality and style. The vast array of customizable designs and easier access to natural lighting help brighten your mood and enable your home to maintain a feeling of comfort thanks to the sun’s rays. Achieving a Beautiful, Functional Smart Home Thanks to many advancements in smart home technology, beauty and efficiency can coexist. Thoughtful design and planning mean your house can benefit from updated technology without the risk of clutter or bulky devices. Consider how you can make the most of your interior and exterior by thoughtfully incorporating the latest innovative smart technologies.

Have you ever stayed at a five-star hotel and wished you could bring the pampered feeling home? With thoughtful layering, rich textures and high-quality materials, your bedroom can become a personal sanctuary that rivals any luxury suite. Here’s how to transform your bed into the most indulgent, comfortable spot in your home. 1) Start With a Supportive Base If your mattress feels too firm or lacks cloud-like comfort, add a cushiony mattress topper for the perfect amount of plushness without sacrificing stability. Toppers are usually 2 to 4 inches thick , which is enough to change the feel of your mattress without overwhelming it. It gives you that just-right hotel firmness night after night while extending your mattress’s lifespan. If a mattress topper doesn’t seem to do the trick, keep in mind that mattresses need replacing after 7 to 10 years of use. If yours falls within that range, it may be time to get a new mattress before you add a mattress topper. 2) Use High-Quality Sheets Luxury starts with the sheets. Soft, breathable, temperature-regulating sheets instantly make your bed feel more inviting. A great option is high-quality jersey cotton because it feels smooth against your skin and holds up beautifully, wash after wash. Good sheets also regulate your body temperature overnight, helping you drift off to dreams sooner and stay asleep longer. 3) Layer Thoughtfully Layers add depth and comfort. Start with a fitted sheet and flat sheet, then add a lightweight quilt or blanket. Finish with a fluffy duvet folded neatly at the foot of the bed. This adds a polished look and gives you flexibility throughout the night, no matter the temperature. A well-layered bed always feels more substantial and inviting, with each layer serving function and style. 4) Stack Pillows for Luxe Comfort You’ll need several pillows to achieve that full, cozy hotel effect. Start by stacking two firm pillows against your headboard for structure. Place two softer pillows in front of those to cushion your head and neck while you sleep. Round it out with a couple of decorative pillows for a polished touch. Varying sizes, shapes and textures make the arrangement look intentional and refined. 5) Stick to White or Soft Neutrals Luxury hotels use white bedding to create a fresh, clean and inviting look. White also complements nearly any bedroom color palette. Mix in soft grays, creams or beige tones for a warm, relaxing vibe. Dress up your bed with decorative pillows or a colorful blanket to prevent it from looking too plain. 6) Steam or Iron Your Sheets Crisp, wrinkle-free bedding instantly makes your bed feel more elegant. After making the bed, run a handheld steamer across the top layer or iron your sheets before putting them on. This small step smooths creases and helps everything lay flat. Plus, it can banish lingering germs , leaving your bed cleaner. 7) Upgrade Your Bedspread A structured bedspread or coverlet ties the whole look together. Choose one with some weight to it so it drapes nicely and stays in place. Textured fabrics, subtle patterns or quilting can all add dimension without overwhelming the simplicity of your bed. A finished top layer makes the bed feel complete, not just thrown together. 8) Add Calming Scents Luxury hotels use subtle scents to create a calming atmosphere, and you can do the same. A lavender-infused pillow mist, scented linen spray or natural candle can completely change your mood. Soft, relaxing scents ease anxiety , making them ideal for bedtime. 9) Tuck Like a Pro Tight corners and smooth edges matter more than you’d think. Tucking in the sheets at the foot and along the sides of your bed keeps everything secure and adds to that hotel-level neatness. Use hospital corners or fold the extra fabric tightly under the mattress. 10) Add a Bench or Ottoman at the Foot of the Bed The little extras count. A bench, ottoman or upholstered stool at the foot of the bed mimics hotel suite styling and gives you a spot to sit or put down your robe or bag. Choose one with clean lines and soft upholstery to keep the look cohesive. 11) Play With Texture and Layers of Color To make your bed look more luxurious, think beyond your sheets. Mix textures with soft linen blankets, knitted throws and velvet accent pillows. You can stay within the same neutral color palette while varying the tones for depth. This creates a layered, dimensional look that feels more expensive without being busy. 12) Keep Everything Symmetrical Hotels often rely on symmetry to make their rooms look elegant and balanced. Match pillows on both sides of the bed, center your duvet nicely and place decorative cushions evenly. Symmetry creates a sense of order that immediately makes your bed look like it belongs in a five-star suite. Sleep in Luxury Every Night You don’t need to travel to experience hotel-level comfort. With thoughtful design and a few premium pieces, your bedroom can become your private five-star retreat.

Woodsy charm brings natural beauty from the great outdoors into your home. It prioritizes organic materials, natural fibers and warm tones to create a cozy and rustic atmosphere. One look at trending “forestcore” and “cabincore” decor-related hashtags on social media reveals chunky-knit fabrics, softer lighting, botanical motifs and more lived-in styles. Transforming your home into a snug and soothing escape will help you easily embrace seasonal change. Use these six tips for a charming woodsy interior that cultivates a more profound connection with nature and less stress. 1) Use Nature-Inspired Palettes Nature-based color palettes include rich browns, deep greens, gold and terracotta, which are hues inspired by autumnal energy and cabin life. Interior designer Roger Higgins says almost all earthy colors look visually stunning when merged , providing the perfect backdrop for bold floral motifs and other fresh, seasonal pigments. 2) Embrace Wood Accents Wood elements are a cornerstone of the woodsy charm aesthetic. From reclaimed wood furniture to exposed beams and open shelving, you can incorporate these accents into every room. Whereas painted furniture may chip or wear easily, stained wood maintains its beauty for decades without requiring much care. Consider staining wood decor for timeless appeal, sustainability and greater durability. 3) Layer Earthy Textiles A dense forest in autumn might have you thinking about wool throw blankets, linen upholstery, jute rugs and plaid. Each of these textile elements provides warmth and comfort as temperatures start to drop outside. Experiment with layering different fabrics and patterns to create depth and visual interest in each space. 4) Decorate With Foliage and Greenery You can’t achieve woodsy charm without foliage and greenery. Tree branches, dried floral arrangements, and low-maintenance plants will add a pop of earthy color and texture in your home. In particular, a pothos can live for 11 years under low-light conditions and weekly watering. The Chinese money plant also grows to only 8 or 12 inches for those who want to avoid overgrowth. 5) Incorporate Rustic Lighting Days become shorter with the start of fall, so play into a dimmer atmosphere with warmer lighting. Incorporate light fixtures made from wood, iron and glass, or string Edison bulbs overhead in an enclosed sunroom for a unique lighting experience. Wrought-iron sconces can also add rustic depth to your dining room, while candlelight and lanterns cast a softer mood for evening relaxation. 6) Add Natural Scents Fragrances that evoke the essence of autumn are the perfect final touch for infusing woodsy charm into your home. Opt for candles, diffusers, and aromatherapy in scents like cedar, apple, sandalwood, cinnamon and pine. Be mindful of what types of candles you burn, though. Many contain chemicals and harmful pollutants that trigger allergies and asthma , so choose those made from beeswax, soy and other natural ingredients. Creating a Cozy Autumn Retreat Woodsy charm is the ultimate cozy escape for any nature lover, especially when welcoming the cooler months. With a more rustic, organic-based design, you can create the perfect forest-inspired retreat.

Gray has dominated home interiors for some time, providing the perfect backdrop for modern, cool designs. With more homeowners shifting toward cozier, colorful spaces, it seems gray has lost its flair and popularity — but is this hue completely out of style in 2025? It depends on how you use it. Is Gray Going Out of Style? Known for its versatility, gray pairs well with cool and warm tones, making it a safe choice for design enthusiasts. It's a classic shade that maintains importance in the neutral family, especially considering the subjectivity of color in a home. Yet, many experts are ready to break up with gray. Designer Peter Spalding welcomes the change, preferring to avoid playing it safe and encouraging homeowners to infuse themselves into their interiors. Jillian Hayward Schaible has also said warmer tones and natural elements add much-needed comfort, while she's noticed floral motifs replacing gray with pops of color. Warm neutrals, including browns and olives, are taking over. Gideon Mendelson and Stephanie Brown have both noted a longing for nature and earthy tones , from taupe to burnt umber and clay. In their opinion, these shades offer a grounding and timeless aesthetic, appearing in everything from marble to rugs and decor. Greens, blues and creams further accent neutral bases for eye-catching contrast. How to Use Gray in Your Home Today By all means, you should continue using gray in your home if you love it. However, there may be more contemporary ways to integrate it to keep your interior style fresh and comfortable. 1) Pair Gray With Warm Accents Cool gray undertones might feel stark without warm accents, which produce a more inviting environment. Brass or gold lamps, pendant light fixtures, terracotta planters and camel-toned leather seating will help you create balance and modernity in each room. You could also incorporate oak or walnut bookcases, shelves, frames and furniture. 2) Embrace Gray Cabinetry Gray cabinetry is still popular in kitchens and bathrooms, especially shaker cabinets with clean lines and smooth surfaces for stylish appeal. Pair dark charcoal gray with lighter countertops for energetic contrast and a minimalist aesthetic. You can warm the space with caramel-colored barstools and brass hardware. 3) Incorporate Natural Elements Natural elements in gray rooms create the earthiness currently trending in interior design. You can achieve an organic and calming atmosphere with houseplants, stone materials and reclaimed wood furnishings. Consider hanging rattan pendant shades over the kitchen island light fixtures or making your home more sustainable with bamboo accents. 4) Update With Bold Contrasts Gray's neutral quality allows you to infuse each space with bold, contrasting hues. One expert suggests blending gray with an equally cool-toned slate-blue for a calming and cohesive effect, while cobalt blue could add a splash of brightness. Mauve pink and olive green also play well into gray's undertones. 5) Layer Textures for Depth and Intrigue Gray can appear flat if you don't style it correctly. Velvety cushions, chunky knit throw blankets and smooth surfaces like glass, metal and polished stone can add rich depth and visual interest to the monochrome color. Additionally, you could include sheer curtains and woven materials to create dimension. Loving a Toned-Down Gray in Home Design Gray may not be as popular as it was, but it certainly isn't going away. There are several ways to embrace gray with today's earthier, warmer color trends. What's most important is creating an interior style that feels comfortable for you.

Old is the new new. While you might not be ready to start churning butter, colonial chic interiors can make you feel like you’ve modernized a centuries-old home. The effect is cozy, eye-catching and one of the current biggest trends for a host of reasons. Here’s what colonial chic is, the “why” behind the interest and how to nail it in your space. Colonial Chic: What It Is and Why People Love It Right Now As the name suggests, colonial chic is a modernization of the interior design of the 17th and 18th centuries. While it incorporates layers for visual interest, the style aims to make a room more functional than its inspiration. Homeowners make their houses elegant but not so stuffy that visitors don’t feel they can relax. Colonial chic has gotten more popular lately because recent events have made people more fond of looking back. The COVID-19 pandemic upended lives worldwide , and many spent more time on the internet remembering what life was once like. While some merely reminisced about going to the grocery store, several experts noted that increased nostalgia rates could be due to the past feeling simpler compared to modern times. Additionally, a large group may share similar feelings or memories associated with the decor, creating an instant community. Thus, because nearly everyone was at home more, craving the comfort of human connection, design styles that emulated it surged in popularity. However, the fad has blossomed past retro. Interiors ranging from 90s and early 2000s flair to antique and even ancient glam you can educate visitors and social media followers on are now popular. With Colonial chic, you can feel like you’ve explored the world in luxury without ever setting foot in a plane, train or automobile. Well, perhaps a horse-drawn carriage or wooden ship is more your style. Details You Need for a Colonial Chic Interior If you’re here, you love the look of early American architecture but want to bring it into the modern era. Here are the most important elements to incorporate and refresh. 1) Wood Accents Wood is a vital feature of colonial chic interiors. Whether you expose or add wood beams or strip and stain your cabinets, it helps your home quickly acquire that old-timey feel. However, avoid adding too many concrete and metal accents alongside the wood, as they can make a space feel more like a warehouse than a cozy shelter. Updating the Colonial style means knowing where to incorporate wood and where to dial it back. For example, if you want a dark wood bedframe, brightening up the ceilings and walls adds visual interest to the bedroom. 2) Patterns on Walls and Upholstery Wallpaper fans, rejoice — it’s making a comeback. Simplistic styles and clean lines will help a room feel more colonial, so look for narrow stripes and light florals. Try finding couch pillows that match a tone or pattern in the wallpaper to tie the room together. For upholstery, go with a light or dark solid color. Leather is also an excellent option. Leaving the intricacies to the accents offers a modern feel to interior design. 3) Light-Colored Crown Molding Light-toned, detailed crown molding and window casings are other notable features of Colonial chic homes. Again, keeping the color bright brings the space to the present, but these additions help it feel older. Chair rail molding halfway up the wall or less can have a similar effect. 4) Carefully Curated Decor Colonial decor may bring to mind cluttered apothecary tables and bookshelves stuffed with trinkets and loose pages, but making it chic requires some restraint. Rather than following a maximalist approach, make sure antique features are cohesive and have visual white space. For instance, old garage doors are popular choices for do-it-yourself dining room tables, headboards or entryway benches because they’re incredibly durable , so they’re ready for lots of use. During the process, stain the surface so it matches the hue of the other wood, like the ceiling beams or TV stand. Ensure the decor on them — candles, pillows, photos and more — is symmetrical so everything feels curated. On those bookshelves, include some gilded, old-style editions of your favorite books and a few beloved candles and trinkets, but keep it sparing. You may even choose to paint them a hue from the wallpaper or to match the couch if there are already enough wood accents. Like with patterns, less does a lot more in this style. 5) Rich Colors If you want to limit your wallpaper use, you can also use paint to update and antiquify your home. Colors like greyish blues, darker brick reds and blue-greens harken back to classic paints , while using them sparingly makes it feel like you’ve renovated an 18th-century build. For example, paint the dining room a darker color above the chair rail molding and white or a bright off-white below. Rugs, bedding and smaller decorations in the same hue help the wall shade pop. Get the Colonial Chic Interior of Your Old-Timey Dreams Linen dresses may not be your favorite, but linen curtains or sheets may be the features that transform your space from modern to Colonial chic. Try adding these must-have elements if you’re looking for a historic style with a contemporary twist. Older accents incorporated with a keen eye are the key to antique interior design that feels timely.

While designing your new home or revamping an existing one, you’ve probably heard about the kitchen triangle or kitchen work triangle concept. Although designers have used it for decades, some recognize the chance to update approaches to suit modern lifestyles better. What Is the Kitchen Triangle? The kitchen triangle centers on the stove, refrigerator and sink. The shape should not have through traffic or obstacles blocking the area. This idea became popular in the 1940s because it allowed people to take small steps and pivot to work with those essential appliances. Kitchens designed earlier featured freestanding ovens, sinks and cupboards, with the latter doubling as a workstation. The kitchen triangle supported modernization, and designers believed this layout enhanced homemakers’ productivity. Why Is the Kitchen Triangle Outdated? Although matriarchs once solely assumed cooking activities, they have become group efforts shared among other household residents and friends. The increased occupancy makes spaces designed with the kitchen triangle feel crowded. Plus, modern kitchens feature far more than those three appliances. You may use the microwave, conventional oven and air fryers when making meals today, walking between them in an area not resembling a particular shape. Part of the reason is that many homes have open-plan layouts. Relatedly, families often cook and serve dishes in the same room, whereas the residences of decades ago had dedicated dining areas. Additionally, designers who used the kitchen triangle concept made the shape occupy a 13-26 foot perimeter , which overly limits options for diverse spaces. Appliances such as dual ovens and double-door fridges expand preparation and storage opportunities, but the triangular placement and suggested measurements don’t fit their spacious sizes. Assessing Updated Designs With the kitchen triangle seen as a less-than-ideal option, what should you discuss in upcoming design conversations? 1. Prioritizing Adjustability and Flexibility Designers who recommended the kitchen triangle worked with a relatively limited assortment of appliances and brands. The fewer options made it easier to envision layouts and imagine how people would use these spaces over time. However, many of today’s manufacturers emphasize more choices by offering modular appliances that people can rearrange to fit their needs. Movable carts add storage and fit individual workflows , allowing homeowners to customize their kitchen. Similarly, adjustable shelves accommodate equipment of various heights. 2. Integrating Dedicated Storage Spaces Many homes with kitchen-triangle designs had root cellars, where households stored produce in preparation for canning. They also kept dry goods there, helping them store essentials for better resilience during economic fluctuations. Although most modern homes lack cellars, occupants still want handy places to store shelf-stable goods. Pantry organizer cabinets meet that need. Think of them as your clothing wardrobe, but for food. This stand-alone feature has shelves and doors, letting you group contents by date, type or other intuitive categories. Many households appreciate the convenience, especially because Americans buy groceries weekly on average. 3. Creating Specific Zones Because cooking frequently involves multiple parties, some newer layouts feature zone-based designs catering to those simultaneously working on tasks. Then, they have ample space for productivity and don’t get in each other’s way. One designer mentioned he often creates two- sink configurations — one for prepping and another for cleaning up later. Designing multipurpose zones or ones that overlap suits smaller kitchens and ensures everyone can access amenities such as sinks. Placement also makes a difference, including designating the cleanup area beneath a window, which allows people to look out at nature and makes the task more engaging. 4. Emphasizing Purposeful Spaces Another reason for the kitchen triangle falling out of favor is that designers view it as overly restrictive. Even those who still use the triangular layouts recommend not focusing on them at the expense of other necessities. One designer enjoys equally prioritizing functionality and appearance , which often makes triangles and zones form naturally. Talk to your design expert about how you plan to use the kitchen while suggesting specific strategies to achieve goals and align with long-term enjoyment. Getting a Kitchen You’ll Love Despite learning about the decreasing popularity of the kitchen triangle, you may decide it suits your needs. In any case, use these suggestions to have valuable conversations with professionals and anticipate having a beautiful, functional space.

If you're designing or renovating your home, these research‑backed tips can help raise your property’s value and make your space more enjoyable. 1) Embrace Organic Modern Design Designing your interiors with organic modern elements like natural wood, stone surfaces, warm textures and soapstone countertops can add up to 3.7% to your home’s value. This style has become a top choice for homeowners and buyers alike because it blends the clean simplicity of modern design with the warmth and richness of natural materials. The look is sleek but never sterile — think oak cabinetry, travertine tile, linen drapes and matte black or aged brass fixtures. These materials elevate your home’s aesthetic and create a calm, inviting atmosphere that feels both stylish and livable. Organic modern design works beautifully across all rooms. In the kitchen, soapstone counters and wood accents feel high-end without being flashy. In living spaces, incorporating cozy textiles and neutral tones can soften hard edges and add depth. Even small details like cane furniture, hand-thrown ceramics or clay-toned paint can contribute to the overall harmony of the space. 2) Elevate the Kitchen With Open Plans and Quality Features Kitchens are a top priority for buyers, and even small upgrades can go a long way. Visual appeal can be just as important as function when it comes to adding value. In fact, 42% of homeowners renovate their kitchen simply because they don’t like how it looks. Consider choosing timeless materials like quartz countertops and adding under-cabinet lighting for both beauty and practicality. A fresh coat of paint or new backsplash can also give the space a completely refreshed feel without a full remodel. 3) Upgrade the Entryways to the Home A striking front door delivers strong curb appeal. Homes with a painted‑black front door saw offers averaging $6,449 more , and replacing an entry door with a steel model yields up to 188% resale return. Additionally, updating the garage door can bring a return of nearly 200%. Since they account for up to 40% of a home’s facade, they are a key detail in creating strong curb appeal. Choosing a modern, well-finished door that matches your home's style can instantly boost curb appeal and create a more cohesive, polished look. These upgrades create an immediate sense of quality and care, which influences buyers' perceptions of the rest of the home. Plus, they’re relatively low-cost compared to other renovations, making them a smart and efficient way to boost value. 4) Finish or Add Livable Space Creating more usable square footage is always a smart move. If you have an unfinished basement, consider transforming it into a cozy family room, guest suite or entertainment space. Adding flooring, drywall and good lighting can turn a blank area into a valuable extension of your home. In today’s work-from-home world, a dedicated office space is high on many buyers’ wish lists. If you don’t have a spare room, carve out a quiet corner in a bedroom, hallway nook or even under the stairs. Whether it’s a basement retreat or a small home office, creating functional, finished space makes your home feel bigger, more versatile and more appealing to future buyers. 5) Use Thoughtful Storage and Built‑Ins Smart storage solutions help your home feel organized, spacious and high-end. Start by maximizing closets with double rods, shelving or drawer systems to make the most of every inch. In living areas, built-in shelves or window seats with hidden storage offer both function and charm. Custom closet upgrades are especially worthwhile — many homeowners recover more than 80% of the cost when it’s time to sell. It’s a feature buyers notice and appreciate, especially when it’s both practical and beautifully designed. Consider storage in unexpected places too, like a pull-out pantry in the kitchen, a mudroom bench with hooks or under-stair cabinets. These thoughtful details make everyday life easier and show buyers that the home has been well-designed. 6) Embrace Paint Updates and Minor Bathroom Changes Fresh paint is one of the simplest ways to give your home an instant facelift. Stick to light, neutral colors like soft beige, warm gray or creamy white to create a clean, inviting feel that appeals to a wide range of buyers. Don’t forget trim and ceilings — crisp, freshly painted details make the whole space feel more polished. In the bathroom, small upgrades can make a big difference. Replacing outdated faucets, showerheads and cabinet hardware with modern finishes like brushed nickel or matte black can refresh the space without a full remodel. Consider re-grouting tiles, swapping out an old mirror for a framed one or installing open shelves for added function and charm. Smart Design, Strong Value Each design tip does more than elevate your home’s style — it adds real, measurable value. Small changes like a black front door or flowering shrubs can bring thousands more at resale. Bigger updates like a kitchen refresh or finished basement offer a powerful return on investment. The key is thoughtful design, quality materials and upgrades that boost both function and appeal. When you design smart, your home works harder for you today and in the future.