A Minimalist Tiny Home That Actually Has Everything You Need to Live

Can you fit everything you need to live in less than 100 square feet? Twenty-seven-year-old Italian architect Leonardo Di Chiara is finding out. Di Chiara is the creator of the aVOID Tiny House, a modern and minimalistic home that measures only nine square meters total (or a smidge less than 98 square feet). At first glance, the space appears to be a simple white room. However, the ingeniously designed home hides everything an owner might need, including a Murphy bed, a fold-out dining table and chairs, and cabinets that open to reveal functional kitchen and bathroom spaces as well as storage.

Di Chiara’s design is based on principles of “less is more” and living a fully sustainable lifestyle with a minimal footprint. The design was inspired by his desire to own an affordable home while still having the freedom to move around Europe. To make it work, the space was built on wheels. (The aVOID house has been parked in Berlin, with future stops planned in Copenhagen, the Netherlands, and Paris before heading back home to Italy.)

For Di Chiara, his home is a prototype for further innovation in functional design for small spaces. “Living inside aVOID is not, in my case, just a minimalistic challenge measurable in square meters,” he said on his website. “It is getting me in direct contact with my first creation as an architect. It happens often that I stop and think, watching the space in its different functional arrangements. Living experience allows me to verify, test, and modify the house, implementing it with new solutions.”

Curious how it all works? See the aVOID house in action below!

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(Photos via Leonardo Di Chiara © Giacomo Terracciano and © Anna Fontanet Castillo; video via Leonardo Di Chiara)

With so much in common, there's a lot to love about Japanese and Scandinavian design. Both aesthetics emphasize neutral and earthy colors, sustainable materials, and the great outdoors (plants, branches, and solids woods). Japandi design brings the two decor trends into one happy, harmonious place, influenced by the subtle differences in each design. There's the comfort and warm minimalism of the Scandi style combined with the elegance, attention to detail and wabi-sabi, or rustic simplicity (wabi) and beauty in imperfection (sabi), of the Japanese side. Here's a look at how to achieve the look with our shoppable favorites!

Open Spaces

Image courtesy of Klein Agency

This 1930s ranch-style home in the Los Feliz Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles exudes a Japandi vibe, with its open and airy layout, beautiful cabinetry in Douglas Fir, clean modern lines, tons of natural light and high-end materials to elevate the design, all reimagined by AIA award-winning architects Klein Agency in collab with builder SITU Development.

Neutral Color Palette

Image courtesy of Klein Agency

Look for shades of white, beige, gray and earth tones to create a serene and calming atmosphere.The Klein design team was inspired by the home’s natural surroundings and sweeping views. Green tones reflect the nature outside, as do the beautiful wide plank white oak flooring by Madera. The relaxed organic bedding hint to a more Scandi hygge look.

Functionality

Image courtesy of Klein Agency

The Klein architects added two more bedrooms and additional square footage to maximize the home’s functionality and flow. Where does all the clutter go? These built-in closets offer tons of storage space so you never see any.

Minimalist Decor

Image courtesy of Klein Agency

Minimal artwork and natural elements set the scene for a quiet workspace, where focus is key. Don't be afraid to include vintage items and personal mementos too. Things that hold meaning to you are especially important.

Natural Elements

Image courtesy of Klein Agency

The windows are unobstructed throughout the home, maximizing natural light, and the decor embraces the outdoors with indoor branches and greenery (even in the shower).

Balanced Symmetry

Image courtesy of Klein Agency

Rise and shine: sleek furniture and a balanced layout, as well as limited decoration, are signature markers of Japandi design. Furniture and decor feels purposeful, like you use what you love and need.

Tranquility

Image courtesy of Klein Agency

Indoors and out, Japandi design prioritizes relaxation and mindfulness, as shown in this stunning Los Feliz home. Keep the design simple, clutter-free, and peaceful. It's all about your well-being and creating a sanctuary for living.

Shop Our Japandi Design Favorites

West Elm Olivia Pendant

This sleek, fan-like pendant makes an artistic statement in any room.

Etsy Japanese Wall Art

Japandi doesn't mean lack of color. This rich emerald print of floating cranes adds a pop to your neutral decor.

Homary Japandi Wood Outdoor Patio Lounge Chair Armchair

Sit back and relax on this solid wood + rope outdoor chair in a rustic neutral hue, perfect for a Japandi-style patio.

Japandi Natural Retracted & Extendable TV Stand

Furniture that is multi-functional is very Japandi. This piece has functional adjustable shelves, an extendable TV stand (or kids table), and is perfect for your living room, bedroom or office.

Majer Upholstered Sleeper Sofa

This minimal but unique sofa also functions as a bed, plus it has hidden armrest storage space.

Ane Upholstered Chaise Lounge

Here's your future reading spot, or the perfect perch for a zen moment with a nature view.

The Citizenry Hinoki Wood Side Table

These versatile side tables made in Japanese hinoki wood are stunning from every angle.

Japanese Wabi-Sabi Style Bird Nest Shape Lighting

Organic shapes like this geometric chandelier create a feeling of nature indoors.

EM Wabi Sabi Wave Sculptural Metal Chair with Cushion-Black

It's all in the details. From your dining room to your office, this curvy steel-frame chair is art that's functional too.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Header image courtesy of Klein Agency

Anne Hathaway — you know, the Queen of Genovia herself — just officially joined TikTok, and it's so Mia Thermopolis-coded. We've already been lucky enough to witness her fun and flirty press tour for The Idea of You, where she stars opposite Nicholas Galitzine and says iconic things like "I'm a Scorpio; I know how I am on a Saturday night." Now, she's giving us a glimpse into the last four years of her life from her perspective. Take a look!

Anne Hathaway's First TikTok Post Is Too Perfect

www.tiktok.com

⏰⏰⏰⏰ 😳🫢🫡🤗

While many of us probably don't like to reminisce on 2020 itself (though I do sometimes miss the days of Tiger King and Tiktok being oh-so-new), Anne starts her journey right in the middle of the pandemic. Throughout the video, she gives us a sort of retrospective on her life...very similarly to Mia Thermopolis at the beginning of Princess Diaries 2. (I'll never forgive them for writing Michael out in the intro 😭) Here's what she detailed, with my own commentary on what she's referring to in parentheses. 😘

  • Made a movie about a lockdown in a lockdown (Locked Down)
  • Tapped into my Scorpio energy and became a witch (The Witches)
  • (We)Crashed (starring alongside Jared Leto)
  • (We)Met Again (running into Jared Leto at the Met Gala)
  • Wore pink in Rome (yes, THAT outfit)
  • Wore white in Cannes (the film festival)
  • Emerged from the Venice Canals dripping in Bulgari (yes, that OTHER outfit)
  • Tasted the rainbow (another fab 'fit)
  • CALMA, CALMA, CALMA (all the times she told paps to chill out)
  • Not calma (iconic dancing YAS)
  • Definitely nor calma (more The Witches realness)
  • Met Monique Eastwood (come on, exercise!)
  • Chopped my hair off (french girl bob goodness)
  • JK no I didn't (ok long hair slay)
  • Cried a lot (that's a water sign if I ever saw one)
  • Became besties with Donatella (oh, casual)
  • Gave cupcake eating lessons (this is the only way to actually eat a cupcake, TBH)
  • Got the world to primal scream (it's giving Claire Danes in Fleishman is in Trouble)
  • Went skiing with Moncler (I can barely walk in snow, let alone look good)
  • Kept being this person (HERSELF 🥹)
  • Had a Devil Wears Prada reunion (oh, we KNOW!)
  • Produced The Idea of You — and acted in it (everyone say, "Thank you, Annie!")
  • Went to SXSW (the outfits, again!!!)
  • Premiered The Idea of You in NY (cue 1989)
The video ends with her saying she forgot to join Tiktok — clearly because she was so dang busy with everything else! Needless to say, if this is the kind of content she's serving, I'm so in! (Especially if it ever entails showing off Princess Diaries 3updates!!!!!)

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Header image by Cindy Ord/Getty Images

I'm so inspired by coastal decor in all of its renditions, from the Nancy Meyer’s-inspired coastal grandmother to elegant and coastal luxemodern, from California surf shacks to Cape Cod cottages. While coastal decor can be an all-year decor trend that combines fresh whites, soft blues and natural elements like jute, wood, and rattan, it’s around this time of year that I start to really embrace the relaxed and refined aesthetic. Here are 20 coastal accents to refresh your home for the season.

Coastal by Gray Malin

Coffee table books are a great way to bring in a coastal aesthetic. New York Times bestselling author and photographer Gray Malin is known for his aerial beach photography in the U.S. This new collection highlights coastal locations from around the world.

Spoonflower Peel & Stick Art Deco Swans Wallpaper

This removable and eco-friendly wallpaper (water-based inks and no toxins) features a swan graphic in a seaside color for a breezy addition to any room.

Aitken Flatweave Cotton Geometric Rug

This boho cotton rug also leans into the greener side of coastal decor with a fun polka dot print.

Nauvoo Dresser Mirror

Bring in natural elements like wood and rattan to keep your coastal decor casual and earthy.

Soho House Pool Towel, Nashville

Soho House uses these classic cabana stripe towels around their poois. This fade-resistant one in their signature hue is used at their Nashville location.

Surf Tribe Book by Stephan Vanfleteren

This photo book shows surf culture in a new light, showing the passion for nature and respect for the ocean that surfers universally have.

The Citizenry Meru Counter Stool

Bringing in natural elements in a refined way is a key part of coastal decor. These modern counter stools in a beautiful ethically-harvested mindi wood are handcrafted by fair-trade artisans in Jepara, Indonesia.

Pendleton White Sands Printed Quilt Set

Inspired by sand dunes against a blue sky, this machine-washable cotton quilt is a nod to the serene landscape of New Mexico's White Sands National Monument.

Indigo Surf Textile Art

This textile art features hand-cut vintage dark indigo lettering on a lighter indigo background and a small wave stitched detail. It comes with the salt oak frame and each one is one of a kind.

Blu Dot Invitation 24" Bench

Woven seating in a white oak wood frame brings in the sandy colored hues of coastal decor. Blu Dot is one of my favorite modern decor brands, and this quiet luxury bench is so lovely IMO.

Nathan James Outdoor Patio Loveseats (set of 2)

Extend your coastal decor to the great outdoors with these acacia wood loveseats and chairs with washable cushions.

Dumae Malibu 3-Piece Setting

This LA-based ceramics company designs unique pieces for casual and special occasions. Love the organic edge on these that would suit a coastal decor aesthetic.

Begonia Dining Chair

Adore the idea of these upholstered chairs in a cabana stripe around a wood dining table - so chic and fun!

World Market White Marble Shell Bookends

Marble shell bookends feel just a tiny bit kitsch without feeling too old-school beach decor. Add these to your desk or bookshelf.

Serena & Lily Jute Border Rug

Hand-tied fringe hints to a surf shack vibe while the elegantly framed jute rug keeps it more refined.

'Crowded Summer' Frame + Photograph Print

Make a statement with a beachy landscape that recalls the best of summer days.

Surf Shacks Book by Matt Titone

Find anecdotes and photographs in this book that reveals a more personal side to surfing.

Zara Embroidered Border Towel

Swooning over these cotton terry towels with an embroidered detail (an illustrated shower) and contrast border in the most perfect blue.

If Lost Please Return Me To The Sea Art Print - Digital Download

Cheeky prints like this one make sure your coastal decor doesn't get too serious.

Surf Shack: Laid-Back Living by the Water by Nina Freudenberger

Peek inside surfers' homes, from bungalows to trailers to cabins, in this bestselling design tome for coastal decor lovers.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Images courtesy of Shutterstock + Wayfair

We love to celebrate and support all different types of fabulous AAPI founders, and one way to do so is by shopping their incredible products! I know I'm not alone when I say I love coming across new brands, especially if they're BIPOC or women-owned. And while I'm sure you don't think you need a cute new slip dress or hand-poured candle, I'm confident you'll find something to snag from one of the below AAPI brands!

AAPI Fashion & Beauty Finds To Shop

Ming Wang Knits Midi Slip Dress

This cute slip dress is full of summer colors like flamenco and pale marigold that make it impossible to look away from. The pleated detail adds depth and dimension to the dress while the smart color blocking style gives it a versatile appeal. Have a cute summer soiree or daytime wedding to attend? This dress has your name on it.

Misook Midi Fit & Flare Dress

Black dresses will always be trendy because of their chic factor. Misook's fit and flare dress has a button-front design that has exposed stitching on the front, but don't let that deter you. If anything, that's what helps this dress stand out from the crowd.

The other thing that I absolutely adore about it is that it features hidden side pockets. They may not be needed, but they're certainly welcomed here!

If you want to look like the ultimate "it girl" this summer, add this midi dress to your shopping cart ASAP!

Maile Kitty Heel in Black Canvas

Since we're on the subject of how the color black makes things look good, Maile's black canvas heels have stolen the heart of the fashionista that lives in a portion of my mind. They're the epitome of 90s style and will look good with Misook's midi black dress.

Since the heel height is under 4 inches, you'll feel comfortable sauntering from place to place.

Behno Tina Baguette Mini Pebbled Ruched (Buttercream)

Butter yellow is the color of the summer and Behno's tiny baguette basically confirms it. The exterior is designed with supple leather and it comes with a chain crossbody strap in case you get tired of holding it in your hand.

I happen to love that it comes in a dust bag to signal the luxurious quality of it. Although it's a mini bag, your cellphone, wallet, keys, a pair of sunglasses, and lip oils can fit inside without an issue!

Ming Yu Wang Orbita Earrings

There are a ton of earrings on the market, but this pair stands out with their orbital design. They're rhodium plated and recycled with cute multicolored resin objects that line the inside of them. Whether you want to wear them daily or reserve them for a special date night, these earrings are sure to be the center of attention wherever you go.

These earrings are sure to sell fast during AAPI month so make sure you order a pair today!

BONBONWHIMS Heart Gumdrop Tennis Necklace (Deep Red)

Haven't you heard? Tenniscore is in and we have the Challengers film to thank for that. I love that this necklace has featured on the TODAY show according to BONBONWHIMS' site and is 18K sterling silver-plated.

Those of us with sensitive skin know that we have to be careful when we wear certain jewelery because certain things trigger allergic reactions, but BONBONWHIMS isn't hearing any of that with this hypoallergenic necklace.

It's also available in different colors should you find that you're not a fan of the deep red color.

AMYO Tiny Starburst Earrings

These 14K earrings are a perfect buy during AAPI Month due to their dainty design. Featuring cubic zirconia stones in the center of the dangly shapes, you won't lose the back of your earrings because they also have a click close design that makes putting and taking them off super easy.

Notte Amore Mio Charm Necklace

I can safely wear statement necklaces again now that my son is almost four so I'm proud to say Notte's Amore Mio charm necklace is a bias pick.It has a thick gold-plated moon-cut chain and several charms that will make any outfit you wear feel stylish.

You can also customize one of the charms to feature your Zodiac sign and it's a handmade necklace.

YENSA AAPI Month Kit

In honor of AAPI Month, YENSA has curated a collection of their skincare staples! You'll find the brand's Super Glow Radiance Polishing Mask, Pink Lotus Peptide Renewal Face Cream, and their Pink Lotus Peptide Renewal Eye Creaminside of the kit.

AAPI Home + Kitchen Brands To Shop

Aerangis No. 40 LIvraria Antiga

This candle is so book-lovers coded because it's scent is described as 'sandalwood and old books.' It's meant to offer a grounding experience with a hint of romance whenever lit, making it the perfect companion to your new "romantansy" book. The full notes are:

  • Top: Ceylon Pepper, Saffron, Lemon Peel
  • Middle: Rose, Patchouli, Sandalwood
  • Base: Vanilla, Birch Resin

You'll also get 50 hours of burn time without inhaling toxic fumes!

Copper Cow Coffee Vanilla Ground Coffee

This coffee may make you breakup with Starbucks beyond AAPI Month. You can trust that you're getting 100% Vietnamese coffee that's a delicious blend of robusta and arabica, and is also sustainably sourced. The vanilla beans are very real and ground into absolute perfection so you can serve coffee however you want at home.

Want to make a cold brew or rely on your french press? Copper Cow Coffee makes it easy for you to follow your coffee-loving heart's desires.

Potluck Combo Set of Gochujang and Ssamjang

Tired of relying on the same rotation of seasonings and flavorings when cooking? Well, it's time to introduce your kitchen to Potluck's combo set of Gochujang and Ssamjang! They're sweet and spicy Korean pastes that'll help you create an excellent marinade to use on whatever light lunchmeal you're eating.

There are no additional sugars, artificial flavors, or preservatives in these yummy tastes you'll be glad you discovered during AAPI month.

Fly By Jing Sichuan Chili Crisp

If you're not familiar with Fly By Jing yet, now really is the time to find your new fave sauce! Founded by Jing Gao, she sought to reclaim her original name — instead of going by Jenny like she had for years — and introduce the flavors of her hometown (Chengdu) to others. This viral condiment comes in six different flavors, with the Sichuan Chili Crisp being the most popular. The other options you have are:

What are your favorite AAPI brands to shop? Let us know in the comments!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Lead image via Copper Cow Coffee

Brunch is a decadent ritual. Late mornings full of sticky syrup and bottomless mimosas (!) are all fun and games until you receive the dreaded bill from your local spot. It's not that the food's not good, it's just expensive. We're here to *happily* report that you can save some dough and take the brunch party inside by hosting your own at home! Here are the best recipes and brunch party ideas to enlist for your next brunch time shenanigans!

What do you serve at a brunch party?

Any dish you can break up into smaller servings or finger foods are good for serving at a brunch party. Think mini pancakes, sausage links, breakfast sandwiches, and more.

What activities do you do at brunch?

Playing games, serving food, drinking mimosas, and visiting with friends and family are all activities that you can do at brunch.

How do you throw a casual and fun brunch party?

Keep things low-key for throwing a fun and casual brunch party – first, send out some simple invites to your inner circle and set a realistic budget for the party. You don’t have to necessarily go for a theme or full-fledged party. As long as brunch foods are involved, your guests will feel welcome.

What are some easy brunch party ideas for hosting at home?

You could organize a pancake bar, a coffee station, or a decorate-your-own donut set-up for an at-home brunch party.

Brunch Party Recipe Ideas

Here are some of our favorite recipes for when you wanna be the brunch hostess with the mostess!

Ultimate Spring Brunch Board

Let your brunch party guests have at it. This sharable brunch board hits all the marks – with sweet and savory bites included. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Easy Vegan Strawberry Tart

These single-serving tarts make feeding a crowd unbelievably easy, especially since they're made with only 10 ingredients. (via The Edgy Veg)

Breakfast Fruit Salad

Luckily, there's not much to making fruit salad. Just toss your favorite fruits in a massive bowl with a ladle, and consider your brunch party side dish done! (via Live Eat Learn)

French Toast Casserole

This *iconic* french toast casserole is made in one pan, plus there's an option for the lazy hosts to let the dish sit overnight before baking. So, if your A.M. routine feels like a Manic Monday every day, all you need to do is pop the prepped casserole in the oven, and voila! (via The Girl On Bloor)

Stuffed Waffle Breakfast Sandwich

This breakfast sandwich truly delivers the best of both worlds. Each stack is comprised of savory bacon, egg, and cheese, plus sweet waffles and syrup for that *ultimate* flavor balance. For a brunch party, simply prep all of the ingredients, then let your guests build their own sammie! (via Rachel Mansfield)

Breakfast Potatoes

Dressing up some diced potatoes with bell peppers, onion, and jalapeño spruces up a familiar brunch recipe that'll please pretty much everyone at the table. Bonus points for making big batches for your brunch party! (via This Wife Cooks)

Lemon Sugar Rolls with Vanilla Cream Cheese Icing

You know (and love) cinnamon rolls – now get ready for something even sweeter and tangier: lemon rolls! This ooey-gooey recipe is ideal for a brunch party because it brings some good 'ol share-worthy pull-apart goodness to the table. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Shakshuka

Hear us out: you could host a dippable brunch party. Sounds tasty, right? First up on your menu should be this shakshuka recipe, a prime dish to dip some toast into for those hard-hitting morning munchies. Next up, dippable biscotti cookies! (via Brit + Co.)

Funfetti Biscotti

Coffee + pastries is the *best* breakfast combo on the weekends, so why not opt for a coffee brewing bar paired with a bake like these colorful biscottis? Your weekend warrior pals will totally dig it! (via Barley & Sage)

Ricotta Biscuits

These luscious biscuits recall Southern home cooking in every good way possible. Each bite is equal parts cushy and crunchy, the perfect contender for a hearty gravy bath at brunch. (via Cozy Cravings)

Sheet Pan Pancakes

This sheet pan recipe is a *total* time saver when it comes to a brunch party! It beats pouring out individual pancakes and waiting for each one to cook by miles. Just don't forget the syrup! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Japanese Fruit Sandwich (Sando)

Japanese sandos are prime picking for brunch because they carry a light, airy, and fruity flavor that just makes mornings better. No matter the type of fruit you use, you can always count on this dish to taste balanced and refreshing. Plus, it's painfully easy to make. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Sausage Hash Brown Casserole

If you're up to feed a large group, casseroles are the #1 move. This brunch-forward recipe idea compiles cheese, sausage, hash browns, and more to form a creative (and communal) dish. (via Culinary Hill)

Millionaire's Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

This brunch party recipe did not come to play. It mixes sticky sweet icing in with caramelized bacon that makes every decadent mouthful feel truly fit for a millionaire. Take care to make extra dozens for your party's company! (via Brit + Co.)

Easy Breakfast Yogurt Bake

We have to admit, we've never thought of baking yogurt, but now we see the light with this recipe. The dish brings a beneficial amount of protein to any brunch function, plus it can easily be cut up into individual portions for serving the whole table. (via Rachel Mansfield)

Citrus Fruit Cups

These fruit cups are genius for brunch party spreads. It's as simple as staging as many cups as you need for the party the night before, storing them in the fridge, and serving! (via Amanda Wilens)

Berry Bulgur Breakfast Bake

Bulgur is extremely similar to oatmeal or grits, making it a supremely healthy pick for a brunch party! Cook a large amount for your guests to eat on over time – this recipe calls for blueberries and strawberries, but you can add whatever you're feelin' in the moment. (via Live Eat Learn)

Healthy Breakfast Egg Muffins

Starbucks' egg bites? Never heard of 'em. This recipe toes the line of being a copycat, except *totally* better than what you can get your hands on in the drive-thru. The cups are prepped in a muffin tin, so you can create countless numbers of the savory breakfast bite. (via Salt & Lavender)

Healthy Breakfast Cookies

Cookies for breakfast have to be the best thing since sliced bread, TBH. What's even more desirable about this recipe is that it's health-focused, so you don't lose track of your goals at breakfast. Make some for your brunch party guests to take home once the festivities are done! (via The Endless Meal)

Ultimate Breakfast Tacos

Because only a crazy person would say 'no' to breakfast tacos. For your brunch get-together, you can prep the additions separately, then have your attendees build their own tacos! (via Cozy Cravings)

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Header image via The Girl On Bloor