22 Ideas for Nautical Home Decor

Kate Thorn
May 19, 2014

Summer breezes are heading this way, and we are craving some sand in between our toes and salt in our hair. Bring coastal style to your home with these beautiful decor ideas whether you live by the sea or just want to infuse some summer into your home all year long. With fresh pastel color palettes, natural textures like weathered wood and a nautical accent or two, your home will start feeling like summer vacation in no time.

1. The Oyster Catcher: Light wood is a perfect accent to coastal decor because of its gray undertones, rugged appeal and durability for all those family gatherings. Believe it or not, this pristine home in Cornwall, England is available to rent! So if you don’t have summer plans yet, we can’t think of a prettier place to stay! (via Desire to Inspire)

2. Coasting Along: The stainless steel of the desk is reminiscent of a glossy boat and we love the blown up, framed images of rippling blue water in this stylish workspace. (via Chic Coastal Living)

3. Lakeside Leisure: With a strong love of white, this lake home combines rustic wood and stone with crisp white decor for a French-inspired design. (via Atlanta Homes)

4. Beige and White: Although not overtly beach-themed, the weathered wood table and monochromatic palette give this dining room a definite coastal vibe. (via Style At Home)

5. Rock Me To Sleep: Nautical doesn’t mean that everything has to be blue and white. Au contraire! Adding accent colors like orange and turquoise will really make your color palette pop. (via BHG)

6. Nautical Kitchen: With white plank walls and lights that look like they are straight off a yacht, this clean kitchen is a glamorous version of the captain’s scullery. (via Style At Home)

7. Dash of Pink: Don’t be afraid to get girly with that nautical theme. Hot pink is the perfect complement to navy blue and those dyed pillows are just too perfect! (via Design Sponge)

8. Wooden Decks: Glossy marble sits on this vanity where the wood was lacquered similar to that of a wooden boat. (via Style At Home)

9. Stripes Ahoy: Nautical design is synonymous with stripes, so embrace them! Thick bold stripes, thin stripes, they all work together to create an effortless look. (via Desde My Ventana)

10. Modern Simplicity: For a modern take on the coastal theme, check out this monochromatic kitchen with sleek surfaces and gold accents. (via Home Adore)

11. Nordic Influence: While we tend to use weathered wood for coastal decor, the Scandinavians opt for darker wood accents like this seaside cottage in Denmark. (via Nordic Design)

12. Sail Away: Even with the ocean waiting, you might not be able to pull yourself away from this bathroom. We love the whimsical touch of the sailboat wallpaper. (via Elmueble)

13. Minimalist Lines: The open modular sofa lends this room a contemporary feel; part of the fun of coastal decor is getting to play with all those textures, like a natural fiber rug, rope chairs and twig sculptures. (via Olpos Architecture)

14. Seaside Living: A beautiful blue and white country style living room with rustic chandeliers and a driftwood coffee table make for chic beach living. (via Home Adore)

15. Teal Reflections: Using only teal, soft lilac, lots of white and silver, this glam home proves you can get the coastal look without a single navy stripe or sail boat. (via Decorette)

16. Bright and Cheerful: A more colorful, playful version of the nautical style with a geometric rugs that makes us think of sailing flags. (via Inspired By Charm)

17. Happy Vibes: Can you tell this home is next to a warm beach in Mexico? Lots of fun colors and angles make ultra modern home feel very tropical. (via Apartment Therapy)

18. Shabby Chic: Straight out of a story book, this cozy seaside home in England was inspired by French Provincial cottages and boasts eclectically leaning beams and charming bric-a-brac around every corner. (via Planete-Deco)

19. Dash of Lime: Lime green is one of those colors that just looks dynamite with dark blue. If you are going for a more tropical look in your coastal decor, then definitely try to include some bright green, turquoise and yellows. (via Concept Trends)

20. Isla Branca: We’d like to make this our vacation and never come back, pretty please. With natural elements and bright colors throughout the whole house, indoor-outdoor living happens effortlessly. (via Vision of Splendor)

21. Cool Blue Kitchen: Glossy tiles shine like mother-of-pearl in this fresh kitchen with bright yellow natural accents. The look captures the casual elegance of the Hamptons-style beach house but has a little bit of fun with turquoise lanterns. Check out the whole house for more gorgeous coastal decor inspiration. (via Ashley Whittaker Design)

22. Setting Sun: Paint your porch railing red, pile up the white and orange cushions, sip an iced drink and imagine yourself somewhere a salty breeze is blowing. (via Vision of Splendor)

Do any of these homes have you itching for some sea breeze? Let us know in the comments below!

12 Home Decor Ideas I'm Stealing From This Gorgeous LA Remodel

Home decor trends come and go but some of them stand the test of time, and good designers seem to capture exactly where that line is drawn. Shawn and Tina Taylor, the adorable husband-and-wife dream team behind L.A. design firm Dacotah Studio, create stylish, comfortable homes that feel timeless and effortlessly put together.

The pair met at the bakery Bread Lounge in downtown LA, at separate tables. "We struck up a conversation and found out we were in industries that mirrored one another. Shawn was doing customization for brands and I was working in fashion," says Tina. (The bakery catered their daughter's first birthday.) Now Tina brings her eye for design while Shawn manages their interior projects for Dacotah, like their latest project in the eclectic Silver Lake neighborhood, where they had their first date. They beautifully remodeled a home built in 1938 for a modern family and it offers so much inspiration.

BEFORE

Before the remodel, the home left A LOT to be desired -- think boob lighting and icky yellow walls. The double doors shown here are mid-century cool but the entry design is pretty sad and dated. Tina and Shawn truly modernized it and created a sanctuary for the couple and their baby.

AFTER

Their inspiration? "Tulum! Our clients were so excited about this specific area and were inspired by Mexico. They love postmodernism design and they are a bit of a maximalist at heart," says Tina. "We wanted to keep the design pretty neutral so we could balance the design and art."

Here's the entry now -- amazing, right?! The whole house feels serene and tailored while embracing the beautiful LA weather and views. Shawn and Tina used earthy, natural materials to keep it timeless and took advantage of the terraced hillside for planting and lounging with drought-tolerant plants.

Here are 12 ideas I took away from their gorgeous design that I'll be bringing into my own home, or future home!

Home Decor Ideas À La Dacotah Studio

'70s Modern

"We wanted to preserve the older architectural details, which had tons of character and charm and looked beautiful with the newer materials we selected," says Shawn. I'm loving these classic modern sofas in a pop of orange. The OGs were designed by Michel Ducaroy for Ligne Roset in the 1970s and go for more than $5K but you can find more affordable options inspired by the original. The color scheme here is on point without feeling overly trendy.

"If you are going to play with trends, do it in a way that can be swapped out every so often (e.g., rugs, artwork, accent chairs), rather than going too trendy on the hard materials like countertops, tiles, etc," says Tina. The coffee table they found vintage in Palm Springs and the artwork is designed by pop artist Steve Harrington.

Sculptural Lamps

Lamps can make such an impact in a room. This black table lamp from Jonathan Entler stands out like an art piece, as does this Hem Puffy chair. This Wayfair sculptural table lamp and Article lounge chair have a similar effect at a lower price point. We can't all afford high-end pieces but a few key pieces here and there that we love is also a good investment.

Transitional Flooring

"We used earthy. natural materials, mimicking the Yucatan/Tulum region of Mexico," says Tina. The porcelain kitchen flooring transitions to maple wood flooring throughout the home. I love the lighter natural woods mixed with the stucco and stone, creating unique moments that separate the spaces.

Wishbone Chairs

The first time I saw Hans Wegner's Wishbone Chair (1949) I was smitten. I have two chairs inspired by the original that I splurged on more than a decade ago at HD Buttercup. They are the pieces I still hold on to and always get compliments on — a true test of a classic design that never goes out of style.

Maple Cabinets

There's so much to love here: the durable Taj Mahal Quartzite slab tile, the vertical window that frames the hedges, the clean-lined shelf, and the continuation of maple on the cabinets. "The kitchen cabinets were maple wood and the stain was natural, which was more cost-effective while maintaining that beautiful, natural look," says Tina.

Outdoor Living

I will never not buy or rent a home that doesn't have tons of natural light. I love how the kitchen feels seamless with the outdoors, bringing in tons of light but also making it easier to entertain outdoors. The pendants echo the table lamp in the living room while the rope-backed bar stools are total Tulum vibes.

William Sonoma Cambria stool has a similar aesthetic. This trio pendant by Plato is also a showstopper.

Warm Bedding

I'm slowing phasing out of my blue phase. These mix-and-match organic sheets from Morrow Goods are a warmer upgrade.

Built-In Shelves

Built-in shelves are looking more sleek these days. This curved maple built-in continues the design story in such a stunning way.

Bath Planters

Bring the outdoors in...to your bath. Love this built-in planter for bringing clean-air plants into your self-care haven. The zig-zag tile is also a dreamy effect.

Terrazzo

I'm been obsessed with terrazzo for quite some time and adore how they use it here on the flooring. The speckled colors are just *speechless* and add an unexpected design element to the whole serene aesthetic. Never boring!

Brass

This whole look just slays but I especially love the brass bath towel bar inside the shower, creating more of a spa-like feeling inside. Also a ceramic vase with flowers are especially lovely for you or your guests.

Asymmetry

I love the organic effect of this brass mirror and clay pendants — as Spanish architect Antonio Gaudi said, "There are no sharp corners in nature." West Elm has a similar mirror design you can shop, too.

Check out our online newsletter for more spring decor inspo!

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

Images courtesy of Dacotah Studio

interior designhome decor inspirationhome decor trendshome decor

Taylor Swift Is Adding "The Tortured Poets Department" To The Eras Tour, And We Have Proof

We are now two for two on expecting Taylor Swift to announce Reputation (Taylor's Version) during an acceptance speech and getting an album announcement instead. After showing up to the 2022 VMAs in a "Look What You Made Me Do"-inspired outfit and announcing Midnights, Taylor Swift wore a black and white ensemble on the 2024 Grammys red carpet before telling the world her new album The Tortured Poets Department was on its way!

And while accepting the 2024 iHeart Radio Music Award for Artist of the Year, Taylor also promises the rest of 2024 will be just as exciting as 2023. "We have so many exciting things ahead of us," the 1989 (Taylor's Version)singer says after thanking iHeart and the fans. "Most importantly, I have a brand new album called The Tortured Poets Department, which comes out on April 19. I cannot wait to share it with you...I just can't wait to keep having fun with you guys because we have a lot of exciting things coming up."

One of those exciting things includes a music video, which Taylor revealed in a "TTPD Timetable" Instagram video. This first music video premieres April 19 at 8PM EST for "Fortnight." Here's everything else we know about the new Taylor Swift album, and all its pop culture references.(And everything you need to know about Taylor Swift (Taylor's Version) too ;)).

Is The Tortured Poets Department going to be in the Eras Tour?

Image via Taylor Swift/YouTube Shorts

Yes, it looks like TTPD will be added into The Eras Tour! While I originally wondered if Taylor would just use the album during the surprise song segment of her concerts, a recent video from Taylor herself show off two clips that, in my opinion, prove we're getting an additional set. We can see Taylor leaning against what's undeniably the "TTPD" logo (while wearing shoes that could totally be in the "Fortnight" video?!) and an unfamiliar number with her background dancers using canes and top hats.

Considering "Fortnight" is the lead single, we'll probably see that song on tour. Based on the circus-themed lyrics in "Who's Afraid Of Little Old Me?" I'm wondering if we'll see that as well. I would also get DOWN to "Guilty As Sin?"

What has Donna Kelce said about TTPD?

Image via David Eulitt/Getty Images

It looks like Donna Kelce has been listening to Taylor Swift's new album as much as we have! "I listened to the whole album, and I listened to it all morning long when it was released," she tells People. "I was just very impressed. She is a very talented woman, and I think it is probably her best work."

Donna also says that, rather than giving Taylor Swift life advice, she's hoping Taylor can offer her some guidance! "She doesn’t need my advice on anything. In fact, I hope she will give me advice," she continues.

Is there a Tortured Poets Department cardigan?

Image via UMG Store/Taylor Swift

Yes, you can order a Tortured Poets Department cardigan on Taylor Swift's website now (or at least, while supplies last!). The gray button down is in the same cable knit style as all her previous cardigans, which makes it the perfect collector's item! Plus, it's got that iconic "The Tortured Poets Department" patch on the bottom left of the sweater.

What is TTPD the Anthology?

Image via Taylor Swift/Instagram

Taylor Swift released the full version of TTPD with The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology. After all those 2 references, some fans thought we'd get a Taylor Swift book, while others wondered if it was part of the TS12 countdown. Instead, it was a double album that features 31 songs instead of the initial 17! Some tracks the internet is already obsessed with are "So High School,""thanK you aIMee," and "The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived."

How many songs will be on The Tortured Poets Department?

Image via Taylor Swift/Instagram

Taylor Swift dropped The Tortured Poets Department 's first song list February 5. "I Can Do It With A Broken Heart" is totally referencing Taylor Swift's Eras Tour performances following her split from Joe Alwyn (you can see her crying during the set), while "Florida!!!" is all about using the southern state as an escape. Taylor Swift's dad Scott Swift recently told fans he's most excited for Swifties to hear the title track and "Florida!!!"

While we were excited for these tracks, Taylor surprised us with even more at 2AM! The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology has all the songs from the original album, plus 15 more. Here's the full tracklist for TS11:

  1. Fortnight (feat. Post Malone)
  2. The Tortured Poets Department
  3. My Boy Only Breaks His Favorite Toys
  4. Down Bad
  5. So Long, London
  6. But Daddy I Love Him
  7. Fresh Out the Slammer
  8. Florida!!! (feat. Florence + The Machine)
  9. Guilty as Sin?
  10. Who's Afraid of Little Old Me?
  11. I Can Fix Him (No Really I Can)
  12. loml
  13. I Can Do It With A Broken Heart
  14. The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived
  15. The Alchemy
  16. Clara Bow
  17. The Black Dog
  18. imgonnagetyouback
  19. The Albatross
  20. Chloe or Sam or Sophie or Marcus
  21. How Did It End?
  22. So High School
  23. I Hate It Here
  24. thanK you aIMee
  25. I Look in People's Windows
  26. The Porphecy
  27. Cassandra
  28. Peter
  29. The Bolter
  30. Robin
  31. The Manuscript

What is a tortured poets department?

Image via Taylor Swift/Instagram

Taylor Swift has spent years talking about her anxiety, her sleepless nights, and her emotions. "My muses, acquired like bruises / My talismans and charms / The tick, tick, tick of love bombs / My veins of pitch black ink," she writes in her official Instagram post. "All's fair in love and poetry."

As far as the name, it looks like The Tortured Poets Department could be referencing her ex-boyfriend Joe Alwyn's group chat name — "The Tortured Man Club" with Paul Mescal (who starred in Normal People while Joe starred Conversations With Friends. Both series are based on Sally Rooney books).

Taylor Swift is also making major connections to the "poetry" aspect of TTPD because ahead of the album release, she gave us a limited library installation pop-upfull of Easter eggs and references!

When is The Tortured Poets Department release date?

Image via Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

The Tortured Poets Department dropped on April 19, 2024. Ahead of the release, Taylor Swift sent fans on a scavenger hunt to gather clues about the album. @eurosweetheart on TikTok points out that on Apple Music, certain song lyrics from Taylor's discography featured random capital letters. But when the letters were strung together, they formed words! The final message was “We hereby conduct this post mortem.”

At the Eras Tour shows in Tokyo, Taylor Swift explained when she started working on TTPD. “I’ve been working on Tortured Poets since right after I turned in Midnights,” she said onstage. “So, you turn in an album months in advance…and I’ve been working on it for about two years. I kept working on it throughout the U.S. tour and when it was perfect, in my opinion, when it was good enough for you, I finished it.”

"Soon you'll get to hear it, soon we'll get to experience it together," she continued. "I'm over the moon about the fact that you guys care about my music...Everyone’s like, ‘Why do you make so many albums?’ And I’m like, ‘Man, because I love it! I love it so much! I’m having fun, leave me alone.'”

The brand new album follows Speak Now (Taylor's Version) and 1989 (Taylor's Version). When Midnights was announced after Fearless (Taylor's Version) and Red (Taylor's Version), I wondered whether she'd have a two rerecordings, one new album pattern and it looks like that's what we're getting!

What is Taylor Swift's The Tortured Poets Department?

Image via Taylor Swift/Instagram

Taylor Swift's new album (which is also referred to as TS11) is called The Tortured Poets Department. Taylor Swift announced the album while accepting the award for Best Pop Album at the 2024 Grammys. Just like "Daylight" at the end of Lover sets up Midnights, I think "Dear Reader" sets up The Tortured Poets Department.

In honor of the eclipse on April 8, Taylor Swift posted the first lyrics from TS11! "Crowd goes wild at her fingertips // Half moonshine // Full eclipse," the lyric post (which ended up being from "Clara Bow") reads. "The first line makes you think of someone who’s famous (Clara Bow was an actress) and...moonshine was a type of alcohol that was popular during prohibition during the 1920s which is when Clara Bow was famous," one comment reads.

Taylor's official announcement features even more beautiful language that evokes the same emotion "The Lakes" does, and TTPD is very similar to Folklore and Evermore in terms of lyrics, but the sound reminds me of 1989. It also has ties to Reputation.

"I think the two albums are sisters albums, but in like an opposite way," one Reddit user says. "Reputation is all black, this one is going to be all white and softly coded." Another agrees: "Reputation is presented as a dark album but is truly a love album...This one is presented as soft and white but I bet the lyrics will be devastating."

TS11 has the same lyrical prowess as songs like "Would've, Should've, Could've," The National's "The Alcott" (on which Taylor's a featured artist), and "You're Losing Me." Taylor is all about looking past appearances and telling a complex story, and The Tortured Poets Department will be no different. Just like Reputation is an edgy, glittery, emotionally-charged version of the beginning of her relationship with ex-boyfriend Joe Alwyn, I totally agree that TTPD looks grounded, airbrushed, and dreamy from the outside, but the lyrics are SAD.

During her Eras Tour show in Sydney, Australia, Taylor played another round of suspicious surprise songs. While sitting at the piano, Taylor Swift takes her earpiece out and calls attention to the keyboard. "Do you hear that?" she says (via TikTok). "My damn keyboard's playing a synth sound." She then does what she almost always does when dropping an Easter egg: she smirks.

"That sound is how the album starts, mark my words," one comment reads. Another says, "That smirk tells me everything I need to know."

Will The Tortured Poets Department be explicit?

Image via Taylor Swift/Instagram

There are 7 explicit songs on the original The Tortured Poets Department: "The Tortured Poets Department," "Down Bad," "But Daddy I Love Him," "Florida!!! (feat. Florence + The Machine)," "loml," "I Can Do It With A Broken Heart," and "The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived."

On The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology, "The Black Dog," "thanK you aIMee," "Cassandra," and "The Bolter" are also explicit.

What is The Albatross about?

Image via Taylor Swift/Instagram

During one of her Eras Tour shows in Sydney, Australia, Taylor Swift announced a new version of The Tortured Poets Department featuring exclusive bonus track "The Albatross." This new album already has some crazy track titles — all with pretty noteworthy meanings.

According to Collins Dictionary, if you call someone an Albatross, "they cause you great problems from which you cannot escape, or they prevent you from doing what you want to do," while a Bolter could refer to someone bolting out of a relationship (or bolting from a restaurant to a car like in this viral clip 🤨).

Meanwhile "The Alchemy" refers to the continual process of trying to turn something into gold — remember how Taylor Swift spent 6 years saying her relationship with Joe Alwyn was golden? Buckle up Swifties, TS11 is one wild ride.

What does loml mean?

Image via Taylor Swift/Instagram

At first glance, the twelfth song on The Tortured Poets Department, "loml," means "love of my life." Some fans were wondering if the song was a nod to Harry Styles since his Harry's House finale track is "Love of My Life" (the album also features a track named "Daylight" which is another funny connection to Taylor Swift). But Taylor ends the song saying he's the "loss of my life" and I will never be the same.

How can I buy The Tortured Poets Department?

Image via Taylor Swift store

You can order a bunch of different versions of The Tortured Poets Department on Taylor Swift's website right now, includingThe Tortured Poets Department CD + Bonus Track "The Manuscript" and The Tortured Poets Department CD + Bonus Track "The Manuscript".

Will The Tortured Poets Department have any featured artists?

Image via Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Yes, The Tortured Poets Department will feature Florence + The Machine on the song "Florida!!!" and Post Malone on the song "Fortnight." And after Taylor Swift teased a variety of collaborations by posting handwritten lyrics from artists like Harry Styles and Lorde, Swifties wondered if The Tortured Poets Department will be the "collab album" we never got.

Another clue that leads me to believe this is true is the fact that the title of this album is so much longer than her other titles — and she refers to herself as "Chairman" of the department. Who are all the constituents?! Are they all the same artists who left Scooter Braun's management last year? Only time will tell, because as far as I'm concerned, surprises aren't out of the question until the TS11 era is over!👀

What is the theory of Taylor Swift's double album?

Image via Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images

Throughout her stay in Sydney, Australia for the Eras Tour, Taylor Swift dropped lots — and I mean lots — of twos. @v_swiftie_ points out that in addition to holding up the number two while announcing The Tortured Poets Department, she's been playing more surprise song mashups than normal, and Taylor Nation has been posting Instagram stories featuring the number 2 instead of the number 13. And it turns out, we were right about this leading to a double album! Taylor dropped the second half of TTPD — The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology — at 2AM EST.

Are you excited for The Tortured Poets Department? What kinds of collabs or songs are you hoping for? Let us know in the comments and check out these Taylor Swift Disney Movie Posters Inspired By Her Songs for more fun content!

Lead image via Taylor Swift/Instagram

This post has been updated.

musicpop cultureentertainmenttaylor swift

10 Bedroom Decor Mistakes Keeping You From Your Best Sleep Ever

Trouble sleeping? It could be your bedroom decor that’s keeping you from your best sleep ever. “When thinking about creating a bedroom sanctuary, keep these three key questions in mind,” says Joshua Smith, principal and founder of Vermont-based Joshua Smith Inc. “How does it look? How does it feel? How does it sound?” From decor to lighting to sound, here are ways to avoid some common bedroom decor mistakes that might be preventing you from getting the sleep you need. Your investment in a good night's sleep can help improve your weight, your mood, and avoid health issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, and more. So have a good restful night with our designer tips.

Bedroom Decor Mistake #1: Excessive Clutter

Design: Joshua Smith Inc. | Photo: Peter Murdock

Instead: Make Your Bed and Get Organized

Clutter can create this sense of chaos in your life, which can negatively impact your ability to relax and fall asleep. "Keeping a tidy space is essential for allowing your thoughts to settle and your body to wind down," says Smith. "Be sure to keep surfaces clutter-free and make your bed in the morning to create a welcoming experience after a long day." Organize your closets and drawers so that it's easy to put clothes away too.

Mistake #2: Too Many Energetic Colors

Design: Victoria Holly Interiors | Photo: Lauren Engel

Instead: Use Bright Colors In Moderation

Bold and bright colors can be visually stimulating (which is why we love them) but they also can make it harder for your mind to relax and wind down before sleep. "When creating a calming and serene atmosphere, we like to feature lighter colors in soothing blues, greens, ivories, beiges, and other pastels," says Victoria Holly, principal and founder of LA-based Victoria Holly Interiors. "But realistically different people find different colors calming, so we like to make sure that we're tailoring calming colors to our clients."

Mistake #3: Too Much Technology

Design: Joshua Smith Inc. | Photo: Tim Lenz

Instead: Keep Tech Out of the Bedroom (Try It For A Week)

We've all heard about how the blue light from devices can negatively impact our natural sleep cycle. Devices can also delay when you go to sleep and how long you sleep. Try leaving them out of the bedroom for a week – charge them outside of the room – and see how your sleep improves. "Remove any distractions that could keep you awake or cause stress, like work related items and yes, the TV too," adds Smith.

Mistake #4: Uncomfortable Bed + Bedding

Design: Victoria Holly Interiors | Photo: Lauren Engel

Instead: Invest In Quality Bedding

"The most important thing when it comes to the bedroom is to invest in a quality mattress and bedding that feels good to you," says Smith. Has it been more than 10 years since you replaced your mattress, or is your current one causing you discomfort? Invest in a quality mattress and find comfortable, layered bedding in natural materials like cotton and linen.

Bedroom Decor Mistake #5: Temperature Extremes

Design: Maestri Studio | Photo: Par Bengtsson

Instead: Keep Temps In The Upper 60s

A bedroom that is too hot or too cold can mess with your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep comfortably. Open the windows to bring in fresh air during the day and maintain a comfy temperature by using fans, heaters, or adjusting your thermostat. Experts recommend keeping your thermostat between 65 to 68 degrees F for the most comfortable sleep.

Mistake #6: Shabby Window Treatments

Brad Ramsey Interiors | Photo: Jack Gardner

Instead: Opt For Blackout Curtains

Light exposure from streetlights or sunlight streaming in through uncovered windows can disrupt your sleep patterns. Splurge on blackout curtains instead. "Blackout curtains are a welcome addition to a bedroom as they allow uninterrupted darkness for a restful sleep through the night and into the light of early morning," says Eddie Maestri, principal architect and creative director of Dallas-based Maestri Studio.

Mistake #7: Poor Lighting

Design: Joshua Smith Inc. | Photo: Lance Gerber

Instead: Choose Soft, Dimmable Lights

Bedside lamps or wall sconces create a cozy space ideal for relaxing. "Having the right lighting makes all the difference in the world when it comes how your bedroom feels," says Smith. "Soft lighting from floor and accent table lamps are best for the bedroom verses harsh overhead lighting."

Mistake #8: It Doesn't Feel Inviting

Design: Wendy Smit Interiors

Instead: Incorporate Items That Bring You Joy

Imagine walking into a hotel room that makes you feel sad or stressed out. You'd probably not hang around, or choose that hotel again. Treat your bedroom as a beautiful getaway that serves as a place for rest above anything else. "Incorporate items that bring you joy and evoke a sense of peace and serenity, such as artwork of nature scenes, plants, or meaningful photos of you and your partner," says Smith.

Mistake #9: Creaky Floors

Photo: Joshua Smith Inc. | Photo: Lisa Romerin

Instead: Cover Floors In Comfy Materials

Floors make a big difference in how your bedroom looks, feels, and sounds. "Carpeting your bedroom or adding a soft area rug helps soften any harsh noises like footsteps," says Smith. Area rugs should extend beyond both sides of the bed and provide enough comfort for bare feet.

Bedroom Decor Mistake #10: Not Managing Noise

Design: Living with Lolo | Photo: Life Created

Instead: Block Noise With A Sound Machine

If you live in a city, you likely have some street noise or the sound of noisy neighbors playing in the background. Earplugs can help but there are ways to block the noise disrupting your sleep with your decor. "Consider a sound machine for ambient noise that will help to drown out distractions and steady the mind, allowing the body to relax and recharge," says Smith. "Window drapery also helps to dampen any outside noises. Consider long flowing treatments for a soft, ethereal vibe."

Find more bedroom decor inspiration on our Home Decor page and subscribe to our email newsletter for all our home decor tips.

Main photos by Monstera Production and Vlada Karpovich

bedroom decorinterior designbedroom designhome decor inspirationsleepsleep tipsbetter sleepdesign inspirationhome decor

Ashley Tisdale Just Shared A Stylish Maternity Outfit We Want To Copy!

We can't take all of the sweet baby news we've been hearing about! From Hilary Duff to Vanessa Hudgens, our beloved Disney stars are glowing mamas-to-be! The latest to join the list of growing families is High School Musical Alum Ashley Tisdale and her husband Christopher French! They've been a happy family of three for a while, but they're expanding with the announcement of Ashley's second pregnancy!

When did Ashley Tisdale announce her pregnancy?

Image via Frenshe

Yesterday Ashley Tisdale shared a mini carousel post on Instagram where she announced her second pregnancy in the most touching way! Pictured in a classic white button-up and slightly unzipped jeans, her cute baby bump is on full display! Her husband Christopher French and their daughter Jupiter also make a loving appearance in the post.

Has Ashley Tisdale shared her due date?

Image via Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for Anastasia Beverly Hills

Since she just shared she's expecting baby no. 2, Ashley Tisdale hasn't disclosed her due date just yet.

What have Ashley Tisdale's friends said about her second pregnancy?

Image via Michael Buckner/Getty Images For Chrysalis

Several celebrities left sweet messages on Ashley Tisdale's Instagram post. Glee star Lea Michele wrote, "So happy for your beautiful family!!! 💓💓💓" while fellow High School Musical alum Corbin Bleu wrote, "Congratulations! ❤❤."

How do fans feel about Ashley Tisdale's second pregnancy?

Image via Noam Galai/Getty Images for goodnest

Fans are also ecstatic about Ashley Tisdale's pregnancy announcement. Instagram user @jsantam_20h, "So you mean to tell me that Sharpay and Gabriella are both preggars?? 😲🙌❤" in reference to Vanessa Hudgens also being pregnant right now. We highly doubt it was planned, but the timing couldn't be more perfect!

What has Ashley Tisdale's husband Christopher French said about their expanding family?

Image via Amanda Edwards/Getty Images

Christoper French shared a heartwarming image of himself, Ashley Tisdale, and their daughter on Instagramto share his excitement about their growing family. His caption says, "Beyond grateful. Thank you my beautiful love @ashleytisdale for another baby French 💘."

Ashley wrote, "I love you!!! Juju is just too cute we had to have another!!" in the comments and we couldn't agree more! The sweetness of it all is making us have baby fever.

How old is Ashley Tisdale's first child?

Image via Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images for Feeding America and North Valley Caring Services

Speaking of Ashley Tisdale and Christopher French's daughter Jupiter, she recently turned 3 on March 23! People announced her birth in 2021 and shared that the happy couple were doing well. We can only imagine how excited she is to be a big sister.

Has Ashley Tisdale shared baby bump updates since announcing her pregnancy?

Image via Ashley Tisdale/Instagram

Ashley Tisdale posted this cute pregnancy update on Instagram yesterday and she she wore a casual outfit that we want to replicate. Although she appears to be wearing straight leg jeans, she wrote a relatable caption about them. "the only jeans that will fit me right now," it reads.

Maternity jeans do exist, but it's possible she's not interested in wearing them right now and we don't blame her!

How do you feel about Ashley Tisdale expecting baby no. 2?

Keep up with us on Facebook for more celeb news and pregnancy updates!

This post has been updated.

Header image via Amanda Edwards/Getty Images

ashley tisdaleparentingpregnancynew momscelebrity news

This Bathhouse In NYC Is The Best Spa Experience I've Ever Had

Imagine sipping Champagne above a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, or indulging in a heavenly spa treatment with the Manhattan skyline in view. Even if your wallet can't quite stretch to a full-blown luxury getaway, sprinkling a touch of luxe into your travels can turn an ordinary trip into a memorable adventure. That idea sparked our new series, Flights of Fancy, where we take you along for a trip to the luxury experiences around the cities we adore.

It may be the greatest city in the world, but let’s be real: it can be extremely exhausting to live in — and visit — New York City. There are plenty of spas where you can snag a $300+ deep tissue massage, but that's not always practical. Instead of constantly carrying that tension for days (and weeks and months and years) to come, I finally took my self care needs over to Bathhouse Williamsburg for a spa day.

Bathhouse Williamsburg isn't exactly a spa. You won't get a facial — or even cucumbers on your eyes — there, but you'll find relaxation in so many other tangible ways. From their available array of amenities included in the day pass to the specific treatments like scrubs and massages, Bathhouse is perfect for taking a step back from a city that requires oh-so-many steps.

When did bathhouses start?

Image via Bathhouse

The earliest bathhouses originated around 10,000 B.C. — AKA the Neolithic Age — according to the BBC. While some bathhouses in earlier years were used for religious purposes, many were social hubs that superseded socioeconomics. Essentially, bathhouses were for everyone to come, cleanse, and calm down.

The bathhouses we know today are more about getting R&R, but their ancient predecessors were meant to literally bathe people. If you think about it, people didn’t have showers and bathtubs in their homes back in the B.C. times. Irrigation for farming didn’t even exist until 6,000 B.C., let alone plumbing that went to and from individual houses.

At these public bathhouses, people could wash the week off with the rest of their community. And while health and hygiene was key during baths, this was also a time that people could come together and socialize with each other — extremely similar to what I saw during my own bathhouse experience.

Are bathhouses still a thing?

Image via Bathhouse

Yes! There are multiple bathhouses in New York City to chooses from, let alone across the world.

What are the benefits of a bathhouse?

Image via Bathhouse

A bathhouse experience isn’t one-size-fits-all. There are many elements to a bathhouse — saunas, hot tubs, cold tubs, etc. — so each time you go could help with something else. Here’s a rundown of what goodness you may get at your own bathhouse visit.

Saunas

It’s no secret that saunas are highly sought after self care luxuries. Forbes reported that of course there are more typical benefits of saunas like relaxation and pain relief, you could also improve your hearth health, immune system, and respiratory system.

Hot Tubs

Like saunas, hot tubs are really peaceful environments that can put you at ease, the Cleveland Clinic noted that there are a lot of other wins to dipping your toes in this water. With regular visits to the hot tub, you could lower your blood pressure, improve the quality of your sleep, and ultimately improve your heart health (alongside other factors like exercise and diet).

Cold Plunges

Cold plunges and ice baths aren't anything new — you've probably seen Tiktokers and athletes alike sinking into an icy tub — but why? According to TODAY, cold plunges decrease inflammation, increase dopamine and endorphins, and speed up physical recovery after a workout or training.

Massages

Massages are more than a part your honeymoon package at the hotel spa — they have very real physical benefits. Alongside reducing overall stress and muscle tension, the Mayo Clinic states that massages can actually help improve your immune system as well!

Body Scrubs

Although your skin sheds dead cells naturally, sometimes the process could use a little speeding up — especially after cold, winter months. Healthline said that body scrubs can aid in moisturizer absorption, clogged pores, and uneven complexion. Specific benefits can vary depending on the ingredients of your scrub, so be sure to understand what you want to work on while you pick out your own at-home or at-spa scrubs.

Do you wear clothes in a bathhouse?

Image via Bathhouse

While the early bathhouses of yore were likely fully nude, people typically wear swimsuits in modern bathhouses. Depending on what you’re signed up for, you may want to consider wearing a two-piece swimsuit — this makes treatments like scrubs and such much easier and more accessible.

Enter: Bathhouse Williamsburg

Image via Bathhouse

In typical Haley fashion, I was rushing to make my appointment. I huffed my way through the front door, and everything instantly slowed down. The bright, earthy reception area was exactly what I needed — real, down to earth, and above all...quiet. The hosts at the front desk checked me in, made sure I had my swimsuit, and made sure I understood the run down:

  1. Here are your towels.
  2. The locker room is around the corner and through those doors.
  3. No cell phones outside of the locker room and restaurant.

Image via Bathhouse

I headed off to the locker room, changed into my suit, and made my way to the pools. I'd never been to a bathhouse before, so I wasn't quite sure what to expect. Praying I wouldn't meet the eerie silence of a university library, I walked downstairs to the pools. It was definitely a soothing environment, but thankfully it wasn't sterile — people talked, people read, soaked, people lounged. A soothing music subtly played over the speakers, but nothing intrusive. It was exactly what I needed.

Image via Bathhouse

First thing's first, I needed to soak. Out of the three available pools, I picked the hot tub because I knew what I needed: to melt away my worries. Deadlines? Moving? Family? Didn't matter — I had a jet on my back and my head leaned back. My company rotated here and there, from friends chatting about a recent scandal to a family testing the literal waters to see how hot it was. All the while, I found myself finally and truly relaxing.

Image via Bathhouse

Next, I sauntered over to the tropical sauna, and it was toasty to say the least. The music from before is amplified here, with little-to-no conversation. The air smelled fresh as I focused on my breathing and tried to meditate. My muscles continued to relax, as the heat worked its way through my body. A little over five minutes later, and it was time to go get ready for my scrub.

Image via Bathhouse

After cooling down on the bench for a few minutes (and trust me, I could use the cool down), my esthetician took me back to my treatment room. She was super kind, willing to talk as much as my Chatty Cathy self wanted to, answering my every question. While I love the quiet at times, I feel the most comfortable when I can carry a conversation with someone. Maybe it's the journalist in me, maybe it's the ADHD, but talking takes the pressure off in a way.

Well, talking and peacefully poured warm water paired with a gentle body scrub. I was in for a Hammam scrub, described as their "take" on a more traditional Moroccan scrub. As I laid on the table, rotating from one side to another, she "buffed away dullness" from my body, washing the mixture away with buckets of water as she worked.

Post-scrub, my esthetician applied CBD oil on my skin and advised me to let it soak in the steam room. I'm not particularly a rule follower, but I figured my new friend wouldn't steer me wrong.

Image via Bathhouse

The steam room was a purple-blue filled with starry lights...and lots and LOTS of steam. I could hardly see in front of me enough to find a seat, but I eventually found my way as my eyes adjusted. I was completely engulfed in steam, feeling like I was on another planet — one where my muscles didn't know tension, but were very, very familiar with CBD oil's relaxing charms. After about five to ten minutes, I knew it was time to head out and rinse off in the rain shower.

Image via Bathhouse

A quick rinse later, and it was the perfect time to take my last moments in the neutral pool. The water temperature was wonderful, and there was plenty of space for the ever-circulating guests. I felt refreshed and ready to take on the rest of my day, so I snuck back into the locker room, washed off, and head to the restaurant for a little snack to send me off.

Image via Haley Sprankle

How often are your feeling mindful and relaxed by mid-afternoon on a Friday after a long week? Well, that was me for the first time in a really, really long time. With a crisp salad and glass of bubbly, I knew this wouldn't be my last visit to Bathhouse. For the rest of the weekend — and honestly well into Monday afternoon — I wasn't cracking my neck as much, my skin was incredibly soft, and I felt good.

Header image via Bathhouse

Follow along for all your travel needs with our Flights of Fancy series and Jetset Journeys series.

bathhouse williamsburgcold plungesflights of fancyluxury experiencesmemorable adventurenyc travelpublic bathhousesspa treatmenttravel tipstravel trendsluxury travelnyc spanyc bathhousehidden gemsjetset journeysbest spa in nycbest citiesromantic getawaysluxury spadream traveltravel