Pink dollhouse with multiple rooms, including a bedroom, living room, and bathroom, set in front of a decorated Christmas tree.
An Architect Reviews Barbie Dreamhouses
*Disclaimer: Although I practiced for five years, I never actually got licensed as an architect. Becoming an architect is actually really hard. You can read all about the requirements right here, and then, the next time you see one of your architect friends, tell them you’re really impressed with what they’ve accomplished. When I was little, I begged my mother for a Barbie Dreamhouse. It was the toy of toys: utterly huge, insanely pricey. I never got one.
May 3, 2018
Before and After: This Nautical Bathroom is Now Much More Subtle
This smart redo preserved everything that was great, and changed everything that wasn't.
May 3, 2018
We Bet You Could Use Some “Lagom” in Your Life Right Now
Lagom is a Swedish lifestyle trend that just won’t quit. Defined loosely as “everything in moderation,” the concept of lagom (pronounced law-gum) is all about finding balance in your everyday life. To help us better understand the concept of lagom, we called on Niki Brantmark, creator of My Scandinavian Home and author of Lagom: The Swedish Art of Living a Balanced, Happy Life, to break it down.
May 3, 2018
This Is the Weirdest State to Buy and Sell a House
Pop quiz: In which state is it illegal to milk another person’s cow, give your child a silly haircut and take more than three sips of beer while standing? Texas, of course. Unless you’re an outlaw dairy farmer with a mullet (to match your kid’s hairdo) who drinks her beer on the run, it’s unlikely the feds will come after you for any of the above indiscretions.
May 3, 2018
This Small Home Has the Boldest Bathroom Tile Ever
Name: Daniel and Diego Location: Palermo — Buenos Aires, Argentina Size: 590 square feet Years lived in: Owned, 12 years After living in Spain for 15 years, Daniel wanted to move back to Argentina. During a visit he found this apartment, fell in love with it, and began a long-distance restoration relationship that would last almost a year. Luckily, Daniel’s experience as an interior designer helped him sail through the process with ease.
May 3, 2018
Pinterest Was Obsessed with These House Tours Last Month
Choosing a favorite photo from a recent house tour is basically impossible, but the numbers don't lie...these are the most pinned house tour photos from April.
May 3, 2018
The Neighborhood Guide to Silver Lake
I’m a Southern California native who never meant to live in Los Angeles. I’ve now lived here twice—interrupted by a three-year stint in New York City. I’m asked about New York versus Los Angeles often enough that I now have a canned reply: I had a deep love affair with New York City, but Los Angeles and I are friends.
May 2, 2018
Inside a UK Home with Palm Trees, Pineapples and Leopard Print
Name: Steve and Beth Parnell Location: Manchester, UK Years lived in: 2 years, owned “Our home incorporates our love of pattern and color and also retro style—I like to call our interior style Eclectic Modern Retro!” describes Beth Parnell, founder of Dotty Dishes. “When we moved from London to Manchester two years ago, this was the only house we viewed.
May 2, 2018
Is the U.S. Getting an IKEA Hotel?
The architectural community is abuzz with the news that the first stateside IKEA hotel could be coming soon. Reportedly, the Swedish home goods giant has plans to expand its stake in the hospitality industry by converting the Pirelli Tire Building in New Haven, Connecticut into lodging.
May 2, 2018
6 Conversations to Have with Your Partner Before Buying a Home
Inspections, closing costs, and loans—oh my! Buying a home is one of the most stressful experiences a couple can share. With so many variables to consider (finances, location, simple matters of taste, etc.), it may feel like every day could bring a new opportunity to argue—but it doesn’t have to be that way. Besides, the home-buying process offers enough trying hurdles as is—there’s no need to conjure your own.
May 2, 2018
This Minneapolis Home Has a Custom Rainbow Stair Runner, Quirky Art & Lots More
Name: Adam and Jessica Location: Lynhurst, Minneapolis Size: 2,600 square feet Years lived in: 10 years, owned Nestled along a popular creek that snakes its way through Minneapolis is a two-story stucco house that resembles many of the houses in this stucco-rich city. Once inside, however, you’re greeted with a colorful array of art, furniture and knick-knacks that just feels, well, cool. Jessica, Adam, their daughter and cat live and play here.
May 2, 2018
Before and After: This $3K Bathroom Redo Feels More Like $50K
This ultra-’90s bathroom was radically transformed into a stunning, smart, and structurally unrecognizable bathroom for less than $3,000. It took vision, elbow grease, and a few (not so) small tasks. You know, like building custom door frames, “casting in place with concrete,” and “construct[ing] a custom wet table saw.” Easy breezy! That marble is simply to die for.
May 2, 2018
Why I Started Keeping a Plastic Baggie on My Kitchen Counter at All Times
I pride myself on the fact that I have never dropped my phone in a toilet or spilled coffee on it. (My poor laptop is another story. RIP, Lisa’s MacBook!) And I tend to do everything in my power to keep up those bragging rights. But as someone who cooks a lot, following recipes (from Kitchn!) on my phone, it’s not always easy to keep my phone safe. Which is where this plastic bag comes in. I oddly got the idea while treating myself to a manicure.
May 2, 2018
This Serene, “Scandinavian Shaker” Style Studio Looks Like the Perfect Place to Relax
Name: Emilie Desjarlais and her daughter Location: Saint-Lambert — Québec, Canada Size: 700 square feet Years lived in: 1 year, renting It is only me and my two year old daughter. Toddlers are messy, so to keep my sanity I made it as minimal as possible. I’m a very artistic person who also has their head in the clouds, so I can’t blame it all on my daughter. I work as a interior stylist and content creator so I spend a lot of time home.
May 2, 2018
Here’s Why Millennials Are Leaving New York (and Where They’re Headed Instead)
Don’t get me wrong— I love New York City. The caliber of cuisine, the convenience of cabs, the irreplaceable energy of eight million pavement-pounders who are craving to shake up their industries. But after living there for years what I wanted more than designer sample sales or expertly crafted cocktails or spontaneous adventures in the city that never sleeps is, well, sleep. I was tired of the town and ready to relocate.
May 1, 2018
12 Home Depot Finds (Under $30) Every First Time Home Buyer Needs
So you just bought your first home—congrats! Now comes the fun part: settling into your new digs by filling it with necessary items. But after you spent all that money on securing your new home, you might not want to spend any more on the boring organization and maintenance tools homeownership requires. Save your dough for nesting, and get moving-in done with these essential 12 finds from Home Depot, all under $30.
May 1, 2018
Here’s What It’s Really Like to Move to New Orleans
My husband and I have our own outrageous life bucket list—big stuff like visiting all seven continents, going to a Super Bowl (him), touring Dollywood (me). Also on the list was to live in New Orleans—and after eight years of bustling city life in NYC, we drove a U-Haul filled with 800-square-feet worth of furniture along with one fat cat to the Crescent City. Check! There’s just something about New Orleans that gets to you.
May 1, 2018
An Old Chicago Church Is Now a One-of-a-Kind Forever Home
While maintaining the integrity of the building's original architecture, Jim and Molly gave a modern face to areas like the kitchen and bathrooms.
May 1, 2018
Most New Homeowners Feel They Can Remodel On Their Own — But Here’s What They Should Consider First
More than half (57%) of new homeowners believe they could remodel an entire room without any help from a professional. Millennials are even more confident in their DIY abilities, with 64% ready to tackle a remodeling project on their own. That’s according to a Home Depot survey of 1,000 new homeowners, age 25 and up, who had purchased a home in the past year.
May 1, 2018
A 1925 Former Fisherman’s Cottage Is Now Filled With Flirty, Fun Florals
Name: Fifi O’Neill with two cats, Minouche and Big Louie Location: Sarasota, Florida — The home is located in a historical neighborhood of vintage fishermen cottages known as The Maine Colony as it was settled by fishermen from Maine. Size: 950 square feet Years lived in: 20 years, owned I live alone with my two cats, Minouche and Big Louie, in a 1925 vintage fisherman cottage.
May 1, 2018
We Tried This Cult-Favorite Bleach Alternative and Here are the Results
In a recent quest to rid a gorgeous old handmade quilt of some weird unknown stains, I came across a so-called “miracle product” named Retro Clean. It promised to be able to do heavy lifting of bleach without being harsh and corrosive—in other words, the perfect solution for my delicate, yet well-loved vintage linens.
May 1, 2018
Peek Inside a Modern Houston Home with Texas-Sized Charm
If you think Texas real estate is all ranches and mansions, this Houston abode will blow away all your stereotypes about the Lone Star state. This refined, masterfully renovated home has an elegant (if unassuming) exterior, but on the inside, it’s full of huge windows, beautiful built-ins and sophisticated finishes.
Apr 30, 2018
This Contemporary Brooklyn Brownstone Is an Explosion of Color
Architect Talia Braude went all out with her home's color scheme.
Apr 30, 2018
Before & After: A Crumbling Bathroom Gets a Fresh New Look
The hall bathroom in Mary Ann and Frank’s Upper West Side apartment was a bit of a Monet: cute from afar, but kind of crumbly and weird up close. The apartment was built in 1929, and all the fixtures in the bathroom were original. This meant that the tiles and tub had both seen better days. After living in their apartment since 1992, Mary Ann and Frank were ready for a bathroom that was a little more ‘wow’ and a little less ‘it’ll do.
Apr 30, 2018
Could This Be the One Thing Deterring You From Buying a Home?
Sure, that old Victorian home seems great now. It has original floorboards and the crown molding is so charming. But once you purchase, every creaky step will send a shiver up your spine: One wrong move and the whole place could crumble down faster than you can say “poor house.” It’s a scary thought, but you’re not alone. In fact, threat of costly repairs is the number one stress for homeowners.
Apr 29, 2018
This is What Homes Look Like in the Happiest Country in the World
Life is better in Finland. Proof? A recent report from the United Nations finds that the Nordic nation’s inhabitants are the world’s happiest, as Finland ranks highest in top indicators of well-being, like income, healthy life expectancy, social support, freedom, trust and generosity. (Norway, Denmark and Iceland take the next three spots, so clearly we should be taking these Nordic countries out for coffee and politely asking them to tell us everything).
Apr 29, 2018
Nate Berkus & Jeremiah Brent Were on Trading Spaces and You Have to See the Rooms They Designed
Reboots can either be the absolute worst, or they’re the best thing to happen to TV. It’s frustrating that some showrunners just won’t let a series end. But then there are instances where they know what’s best and bring back the show we really needed – thank god Trading Spaces is back! In a world where HGTV reigns supreme with 20 different house-flipping shows, the Trading Spaces reboot is a breath of fresh air on TLC.
Apr 29, 2018
This 400 Square Foot ‘Tiny House’ is My Dream Home
Here at Apartment Therapy, we write about tiny houses a whole lot. Sometimes, I find myself wondering if we’ve reached peak tiny house. Are these adorable little dwellings on wheels just glorified trailer homes? Are they destined for the pages of Craigslist in a few years, once the mania dies down? Or are they a reflection of a cultural shift in the way we look at our homes, where bigger isn’t always better?
Apr 28, 2018
36 Simple Ways You Can Be a Better Neighbor
Feeling nostalgic for those Wonder Years neighborhood vibes, or the cozy camaraderie of Friends-esque living situations? Or maybe you just don’t know what to do about all those other people who also happen to live on your street.
Apr 28, 2018
It Takes a Lot Longer Than You Think to Become BFFs With Someone New
Friendship is an amazing, incredible, frustrating, annoying, and beautiful thing. Each friendship that you have is different from the other. You might have one friend you’ve known since you were five that knows every embarrassing childhood story possible. But then you can have a best friend that just knows you on every single level, even though you’ve only known each other for a year.
Apr 28, 2018
A Jewelry Designer’s San Diego Rental That’s “1970s With a Dash of Crazy Aunt”
Name: Krista and Daniel Location: Little Italy — San Diego, California Size: 1400 square feet Years lived in: 2 years, renting Krista runs Hand Meets Sky, “an online boutique specializing in authentic turquoise jewelry and jewels for the modern, boheme bride.” She’s an Apartment Therapy reader who submitted the home she shares with her partner Daniel. In her own words: Daniel had been living in the building for over eight years or so.
Apr 28, 2018
Before and After: This Cold, Concrete Balcony Gets an Easy $200 Upgrade
It's SO much warmer and more inviting than before.
Apr 27, 2018
These Carts and Armoires Are Actually Tiny Kitchens in Disguise
The trend of tiny living is well, huge. Whether it’s municipalities looking to solve affordable housing crises, or individuals looking to live a simpler life in the woods, tiny homes seem to be the answer to nearly every question these days. Now the tiny living phenomena has inspired equally tiny, yet incredibly functional and beautifully designed, kitchens for modern living.
Apr 27, 2018
What I’m Getting Instead of Those Ugly-as-Sin Kitchen Mats
Some of you may remember this post I wrote, asking you if I should break down and get one of those ugly-as-sin kitchen mats, even though they offend my eyes. (If you haven’t read it, I’ll wait while you do!) Despite the popular advice to just break down and do it, I’ve been hemming and hawing over the decision for months. And I’m glad, actually. Because I’ve just come across something that is a million times more attractive than the typical kitchen mat.
Apr 27, 2018
A Comforting, Colorful Home in a Quiet London Cul-de-Sac
Name: Jenny Kakoudakis, husband Anthony, eight-year-old son, and Black Labrador Bella Location: Warlingham — London, England Size: 2150 square feet Years lived in: 3 years, owned Our home is a detached five-bedroom property in the outskirts of London, in the village of Warlingham. It is located in a quiet cul-de-sac alongside similar properties and fantastic neighbors. It’s only three of us (plus the dog, Bella!
Apr 27, 2018
8 Grocery List Hacks That’ll Save Time and Money
Grocery shopping isn’t always easy. Along with the crowds, screaming kids, and long lines, you have to successfully secure a week’s worth of foodstuff, most likely while on a budget. That’s why it pays to plan for your trip to the grocery store ahead of time, so you can avoid draining searches and high prices as much as possible. Luckily, there are plenty of ways you can hack your grocery list to work for you.
Apr 26, 2018
A Scandinavian Design Collector’s Playful, Classic & Contemporary Home in Copenhagen
Name: Rasmus Warnke Nørregaard, his wife Maria and four children (Alberte, Viggo, Vega and Arthur) Location: Copenhagen, Denmark Size: 1614 square feet Years lived in: 10 years, owned This is the home of serious furniture collectors. Rasmus Warnke Nørregaard is the CEO and founder of Everclassic, an “online marketplace for beautiful Scandinavian vintage furniture, ceramics, art and other design objects.
Apr 26, 2018
Smart (and Cheap) Ways to Store More in Your Bedroom
There’s something so cozy about a small bedroom, but there’s also something pretty maddening about trying to figure out how to put all your stuff in one. And the fact that tiny bedrooms often come with tiny closets often makes things worse. What’s a cash-strapped small-space dweller to do? We’ve rounded up a few solutions that will make a little extra room for your stuff without breaking the bank. No space for shelves in the bedroom?
Apr 26, 2018
The Top 10 Tiny Houses For Sale Right Now
Whether you’re looking to downsize or are just engaging in a little couple’s therapy courtesy of online real estate listings, here’s a list you’ll love to browse. Redfin released their findings on the top ten tiny houses currently for sale in the U.S., and you can take a peek inside each one.
Apr 26, 2018
Before and After: A Brand New Look for A Plain IKEA VITTSJÖ
IKEA’s VITTSJO shelving line boasts clean, modern lines, and an attractively reasonably price, but one DIYer found it to be lacking a bit of flair. The shelf unit is now chic and unique—and hopefully a little bit more kitten-proof! Tonya Sutfin of Happy Go Home Vittsjo created this makeover, and the results are so great!
Apr 26, 2018
This Canadian Home Is a Cheery Explosion of Color & Shapes
Name: Coby Starck, husband Leeroy, and two boys, Guthrie and Ewan Location: Lethbridge — Alberta, Canada Size: 980 square feet Years lived in: 8 years, owned I am interior design obsessed! I have always loved architecture and design ever since I was a child. I stumbled across Apartment Therapy some years ago and have followed your site ever since; it is a great source of inspiration and entertainment. I work as a hairstylist and also do interior styling and design.
Apr 26, 2018
A Mixed Media Artist’s Colorful, “Thrown Together” New Orleans Home
Name: Ellen Macomber, Kevin Fannon, and their son Donald Location: Central City — New Orleans, Louisiana Size: 2,400 square feet Years lived in: 3 years, owned Ellen Macomber had given up on the idea of becoming a homeowner in New Orleans. The mixed-media artist, born in New Orleans and raised in a small Cajun town in South Louisiana, was discouraged by a housing market that had skyrocketed after Hurricane Katrina. “I figured we’d just rent forever,” she said.
Apr 25, 2018
Before and After: This Garage Makeover Manages a Huge Mountain of Stuff
A tale as old as time: you find yourself with the luxury of space—a shelf, a closet, a garage, a basement—and then you observe yourself slowly but surely filling it. Suddenly, there are piles and heaps and plenty of shame. One hardy soul managed to turn things around, creating a garage that’s a joy rather than embarrassment. Let’s all get inspired to clean up our own messes!
Apr 25, 2018
Here’s the Truth About Open Shelving (From People Who Have Them)
Ahhh, open shelving. There are some very strong opinions about this kitchen trend. I’m 99% ready to take the leap myself, ditching the looming floor-to-ceiling boxy pantries a previous owner added to our Victorian home. They close in the already small-ish space But it’s a big commitment to move to an everything-on-display kitchen. Sure, they look beautiful on Pinterest, but what’s it really like to live with open shelves?
Apr 25, 2018
Here’s The Minimalists’ Best Advice for Dealing With Sentimental Clutter
My husband and I recently replaced our dresser, which spurred an event which I’ll be referring to in the confines of our relationship history as “The Great T-Shirt Eradication of 2018.” You see, between us, we own many, many tees. We could, as a couple, each wear a different shirt every day and maybe make it until Independence Day without doing laundry. At least, that was the case before “The Great T-Shirt Eradication of 2018.
Apr 25, 2018
Partner
Target Is Going Bold and Boho This Spring
Plush textures and plantspiration are everywhere this spring. Throw in a little rattan and you’ve got yourself a very cool, very now take on a boho chic bedroom. All of this is in Target’s just-released collection called Opalhouse, which takes us on a globetrotting journey without leaving our home.
Apr 25, 2018
Stop Washing The Dishes: THIS is What Hosts Really Want From Their House Guests
Bless the houseguest who hops up after a great meal and beelines for the kitchen sink. Thank you for your service on the serving ware, but also for saving the rest of us from the awkward dance of feeling out which one of us guests was going to volunteer as tribute to the trifle dish. Somewhere in the course of home history, “doing the dishes” became synonymous with “being a good houseguest.
Apr 25, 2018
A Comfy, Inspiring Condo Is Brimming With Good Vibes & Positive Energy
Name: Justine Celina Maguire and partner Adam Location: Calgary — Alberta, Canada Size: 1550 square feet Years lived in: 6 years, owned My partner and I both lead very busy lives and our home is our sanctuary. It’s also where I live and work—so creating a warm, inviting living room where we can relax, unwind and hang out with friends was really important to me. My ultimate goal was to create a comfortable, creatively inspiring room brimming with good vibes and positive energy!
Apr 24, 2018