Great interior design does not always need to be groundbreaking or avant-garde; often, simplicity reigns supreme. This is beautifully illustrated in Eva Mendes's neutral living room. By embracing the timeless elegance of greige, she has created a stunning space that feels particularly breezy and inviting for the warm summer months of 2026.

The actor – famous for her roles in The Place Beyond the Pines and Hitch – shared an Instagram video showing off her sun-drenched space. The room centers around a greige living room sofa layered with neutral accent pillows and light, summer-friendly throw blankets.

Greige – a clever portmanteau of 'gray' and 'beige' – describes a color that sits right between these two classic neutral shades. In Mendes's home, darker greige curtains offer a sophisticated contrast to the crisp, white-painted walls, while a small potted tree introduces a refreshing splash of summer greenery.

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While decorating with greige is a popular choice, it remains a favorite for a reason. This soft blend beautifully unites warm and cool tones, making it an incredibly versatile base that pairs effortlessly with vibrant seasonal colors or other muted shades.

'Neutrals are incredibly versatile, harmonizing with a wide range of styles from modern and minimalist to traditional and rustic,' says designer Nina Lichtenstein, commenting on the palette's enduring appeal. 'They serve as a perfect backdrop for any personal touches or bold statement pieces you might want to incorporate.'

Another standout feature in the room is the lush potted tree positioned behind Mendes, which perfectly complements the summer season and grounds the neutral palette in nature.

Lichtenstein notes that bringing the outdoors inside is one of the most effective ways to elevate a neutral space. 'Bring in elements from nature to add organic beauty and texture,' she states.

'Potted indoor plants, wooden furniture, and stone accessories can create a harmonious and balanced look. Greenery, in particular, adds a fresh and lively touch to a neutral setting.'

Although often overlooked, thoughtful lighting is essential for making a neutral palette feel dynamic rather than flat. 'Thoughtful living room lighting design can transform everything,' Lichtenstein says.

'Use a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Consider lamps, wall sconces, and pendant lights to add both function and style.'

She continues, 'We can see that Mendes has utilized natural light to give the space an airy feel, with big windows featuring half-open curtains.' This abundance of natural sunshine is ideal for capturing that bright, carefree summer aesthetic.

To recreate this airy aesthetic in your own home, consider introducing reflective surfaces to maximize both light and style. 'Incorporate mirrors and other reflective surfaces to enhance the sense of space and light,'

Lichtenstein suggests. 'A strategically placed mirror can make a room feel larger and more open while also adding an elegant touch.' Ultimately, neutrals remain a timeless design choice for any room, and as Mendes demonstrates, they look exceptionally elegant in a living area. For an extra touch of seasonal comfort, try layering lightweight, textured pieces – such as a woven cotton blanket or a tactile boucle cushion – to keep the space feeling cozy yet light and breezy all summer long.

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You can't go wrong with adding a hint of green to your kitchen. The lively hue reminds us of nature, calms the senses, and disrupts expectations, creating a serene space that is still full of personality. You can opt for painting the cabinets, but Eva Mendes demonstrates that the most stylish way to add green to a kitchen is with garden-themed wallpaper.

The actress took to Instagram to share her warm kitchen idea, and her yellow-and-green, lemon-covered wallpaper is absolutely stunning. Eva's space is mostly yellow and brown, but she uses the Lemons Wallpaper by Nathan Turner from Wallshoppe to bring in intrigue. It makes her kitchen feel instantly whimsical, stylish, and full of personality.

Luckily, this look doesn't only work in Eva's kitchen; adding botanical prints brings whimsy to any room, and is especially effective in a kitchen. To explore the kitchen wallpaper, we've curated an edit of green and yellow products to recreate Eva's look, and interviewed interior designers on this type of design. Let's dive in.

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As Eva's kitchen shows, a mix of green and yellow is the perfect way to make your space stand out. Whether this is through wallpaper or smaller accents, these are our top picks for a kitchen in these cheery tones.

As Eva's kitchen demonstrates, floral wallpaper is the most timeless way to add a luxe feel to your kitchen. Luxury interior designer, Rebecca Hughes, says: 'Florals never go out of style! A botanical wallpaper is perfect for introducing colour, personality, and organic beauty into a space. You can embrace a vintage-inspired English country look with ditsy florals or create a bold look with a chinoiserie scene – the design possibilities are endless.'

Rebecca adds: 'Remember, florals aren't just feminine. By choosing the right color palette and scale, botanical patterns can create spaces that feel sophisticated and gender neutral.'

Furthermore, these prints are especially effective in the kitchen, where it's more difficult to add pops of color. Los Angeles-based interior stylist Melanie Thomas explains: 'I think wallpaper is appropriate anywhere, especially in a kitchen. In fact, I think it is great in a kitchen because it offers pattern and color where it might be impossible to add art. Plus, it's great to tie in a colorfully hued wall of cabinets and bring the space together. Wallpaper can go anywhere there is wall space, of course, which is most likely behind the wall behind the sink.' As Eva's space shows, it's the perfect complement to neutrals.

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The style of your garden should complement your house, and Eva Mendes's outdoor space is a masterclass. Rather than choosing clashing greenery, the actress plants out the area around her Spanish revival home with a beautiful Mediterranean-style garden.

We spotted the actress's garden idea in the background of a recent Instagram post, in which she walks out her front door down a brick path. The reddish color of her path reflects the terracotta tiles on her and her husband Ryan Gosling's roof.

To bolster the Mediterranean feeling of the home, Eva has planted out the garden with large succulents and bird of paradise. Yellow hibiscus (like these from Amazon) adds brilliance to the area next to the door. Overall, the bright planting and clever design make Eva's garden feel like stepping into a vacation right outside her front door.

So, how can anyone recreate this same sensibility in their own front yard? In addition to offering you a peek into Eva's yard, we spoke with design experts on why the Mediterranean garden is so popular, and how to emulate the look. I've also curated an edit of plants and products to help you recreate Eva's design.

Recreate Eva's Look at Home

Creating a Mediterranean garden is popular because it brings beautiful character to the outside of the home that departs from the ordinary. Magdalena Gierasinska, Design Expert at Barker and Stonehouse, explains: 'Designing your garden to evoke your favourite holiday destination is a brilliant way to personalise your outdoor space and create a unique retreat.'

Though Eva's garden looks incredibly difficult to recreate, it's easy to get a similar look with low-maintenance Mediterranean plants that can even be grown indoors. Horticultural expert Dr. Susanne Lux advises: 'Pelargoniums and geraniums are low maintenance and perfect for sunny windowsills. Bloombux rhododendrons are hardy, pest-resistant, and visually stunning in containers. Wildflower cuttings bring biodiversity indoors with fresh wildflower bouquets and terracotta pots & vertical planters are great for compact spaces and can double as statement décor pieces. You can also add in Mediterranean touches like lavender, fig trees, and bougainvillea for rich scent and bold colour.'

You can also create a Mediterranean backyard design with the furniture pieces you select. Though plants are important, these pieces help to bring the look home. Magdalena recommends: 'For a Mediterranean vibe, colourful tiled coffee tables instantly bring warmth and character to the space, while lantern-style outdoor lighting adds a cosy, inviting glow as evening falls. If you’re inspired by tropical escapes, large wooden dining sets surrounded by lush, leafy plants create the perfect setting for relaxed alfresco feasts. Meanwhile, for a Moroccan-inspired garden, travertine side and coffee tables combined with bold textiles and low seating create an exotic, vibrant atmosphere. By blending signature elements like these, your garden becomes a passport to your favourite places, offering an everyday holiday feeling right at home.'

Planting your garden like the place you want to be is a beautiful way to transport yourself no matter where you live. From the Mediterranean to the tropics, the world is your oyster.

Every year at this point in the calendar, as the spring blossoms begin to fade and the warmth of the 2026 summer solstice approaches, we observe the new and exciting furniture trends that influence the most stylish exterior spaces. However, while we look for new inspiration, we continue to revive the patterns and colors that are consistently labeled as timeless – and nobody has nailed this aesthetic quite like Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes.

Mendes, who lives with her husband, Ryan Gosling, recently offered a glimpse of the outdoor furniture they are using to unwind this season. If this footage is anything to go by, they have opted for the most ageless pattern of all: stripes.

Best associated with the nautical design style, stripes are often used to evoke the New England coastal style, which is versatile enough to work in homes far beyond the northeast coast.

Striped furniture, especially in a gray hue like the one seen in the couple's backyard, continues to return to exterior spaces annually – but this is no surprise to designers who say that exterior settings are the best places for such pieces. To get their look, this striped gray pillow from Wayfair is a must, but I've listed some more beautiful options for this summer.

Shop the Striped Outdoor Furniture Edit

'Patterned furniture introduces visual interest and depth to any space. In outdoor settings, where natural elements dominate, adding patterns through cushions, rugs, and even furniture upholstery can break the monotony of plain surfaces,' comments designer Jodi Peterman from Elizabeth Erin Designs.

However, while its good looks are inevitably important, Peterman says these pieces need to be functional, too. 'For instance, in a project, our team designed in Downtown Des Moines with Hubbell Development for Maxwell Apartments, geometric designs, colors, and abstract patterns created focal points that draw the eye and invite guests to explore different areas of the space. A space not only has to look visually appealing, but it needs to function first and foremost,' Peterman explains.

'Using different patterns allows you to play with color and design in ways that plain furniture cannot achieve.'

In the Gosling and Mendes garden, they have kept things timeless with a rich, almost neutral gray-blue color palette that only further emphasizes the nautical aesthetic. However, as Peterman reassures, it is hard to go wrong with any kind of patterned furniture – whether we opt for neutrals or more vibrant hues to match the bright energy of the July sun.

'A bold, patterned outdoor sofa can set the tone for a lively, energetic ambiance, while subtle, intricate patterns can evoke a sense of tranquility and elegance,' she says. 'By choosing patterns that complement the natural surroundings, you can seamlessly blend your outdoor furniture with the landscape, creating a harmonious and inviting environment that you and your guests will enjoy.'

While stripes are the star of the yard, other patterns can bring a similar statement to an exterior space as we move deeper into the 2026 entertaining season.

'Your choice of patterns reflects your personal style and can transform an ordinary outdoor space into a true extension of your home. Whether you prefer classic stripes [like Mendes], playful polka dots, or sophisticated damask patterns, there’s a design to match every taste,' Peterman explains.

'Patterned furniture provides an opportunity to showcase your unique personality and create an outdoor retreat that feels yours authentically! Explore these tips and have fun with them.'

As you curate your own patio or terrace for the 2026 season, remember that staying on-trend doesn’t have to mean reinventing the wheel – sometimes, it simply means looking to the classics.

By mid-march, a familiar itch begins, and by the end of the month, the urge to declutter, purge, and scrub every surface is impossible to resist. Spring cleaning season is upon us. For those who need a little extra motivation, Eva Mendes is here to provide it.

The actress and founder of cleaning brand, Skura Style took to Instagram to share her philosophy on a tidy home, and it's oh-so relatable. From the countertop of her pink kitchen, she tells audiences: 'When there's clutter, in the kitchen specifically, but everywhere else as well, I feel like my brain just works harder to try to make sense, and therefore it's more on alert. It's not just about, like, I like things clean, no. I like how I feel when things are clean.'

As we begin building out our March cleaning checklists, the psychology behind the joy of cleaning is an important reminder of the rewards that come with the practice. We not only get a clean home, but the peace of mind that comes with it. To explore further, here's a peek inside Eva Mendes' kitchen, and an edit of the products she uses to keep her home squeaky clean.

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Eva Mendes' Skura Style cleaning supplies are essential to her regimen. Here are our editor's picks of the best pieces from her collection to try today, plus our favorite celebrity-approved cleaning spray.

Eva's assertion is also a reminder of the way our emotions can be deeply connected to the state of our homes. From mood-boosting interior design, to uplifting scents, we can truly shape our environments to reflect the mental state we hope to be in. In the caption for her Instagram post, Eva Mendes explains: 'I feel like my mood is always connected to the condition of my surroundings at any given moment. So when I can control my environment, which is really only in my home, I do.'

Though spring cleaning might not fix all of your problems, as Eva makes clear, it can certainly make them feel lighter. Ultimately, that's the best we can all do.

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Everyone says quiet luxury is over, but where do the minimalists go? Rather than rejecting the stealth-wealth look wholesale, we're adapting the beige-and-cream trend of the last few years to feel more cozy, timeless, and inviting. Eva Mendes's bedroom is the perfect example of what this new iteration of the trend will look like.

We spotted the actress's bedroom idea in a recent get-ready-with-me-style video where Eva and Ryan Gosling's bed features prominently in the background. It's a masterclass in decorating with neutrals.

Starting with a base of cream walls and hardwood floors, Eva then layers welcoming textural pieces. Her carpet is beige with a brown pattern, warmed by a brown bench with a brass base at the end of the bed. White bedding brightens her woven bed frame. The mix of textures, patterns, and materials creates a space that is quietly luxurious but full of personality.

If you've been wondering, 'what's replacing the quiet luxury trend?' then Eva's space is the answer you've been looking for. To explore, here's a sneak peek into Eva's home, an edit of products for recreating her look, and expert commentary on where the look is heading next.

Recreate Eva's Look at Home

Neutral bedroom ideas will always be popular, but in the chaos of 2026, it is taking on a particularly warming feel, as seen in Eva Mendes's bedroom.

Karl Openshaw, Designer at Blocc Interiors, explains: 'Earthy tones are resonating because they instantly ground a space. After years of cool grays and stark minimalism, people are craving warmth, depth, and a sense of emotional security. Shades like plum, cocoa, and warm red tones feel familiar and comforting; they wrap a room in softness and depth. We are also seeing lots of stripes in earth tones, predominantly in wallcoverings, bedding, and cushions.'

He advises integrating the 2026 interior design trend through small splashes to start. This advice is replicated in the rug and headboard in Eva Mendes's space. Karl recommends: 'Introduce these colors through accent walls, upholstered chairs, even painted woodwork. Pair them with natural finishes like oak, linen, and clay to maintain calm energy, and always balance deep colours with warm lighting to keep the space inviting every season.'

As the bench in Eva's space indicates, touches of chocolate brown are key to bringing the quiet luxury feeling into 2026. This year is all about sumptuous texture and inviting warmth, rather than cool minimalism.

Karl further advises: 'Browns are perfect for creating intimacy and warmth. Use them in living rooms or bedrooms, and balance their richness with textured fabrics, warm whites, or brass handles. Brown leather, boucle chairs, or walnut cabinetry introduce depth without repainting an entire room. Use deep rich burgundy and plum tones in rooms that have less light and make a statement, use contrasting artwork and accessories to add another layer.'

Eva Mendes's space shows that even as the most popular neutral look changes, the drive towards quiet luxury will always remain. The key is styling that feels personal and original.

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The only thing I love more than catching glimpses inside celebrity kitchens is discovering that the furniture inside such beautiful spaces is from IKEA. Such is the case with Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling's chic white kitchen, where their pendant light holds a striking resemblance to the TORARED pendant at IKEA.

After much deliberation across the Homes & Gardens team, I concluded that the TORARED pendant (available at IKEA) is an exact match to the lights seen above the island in their kitchen.

The retro rattan texture, in its classic light-brown tone, is a defining feature in the otherwise white, minimal kitchen – and she loved it so much that she bought two. Doubling up on the TORARED's isn't a problem, however. At only $35 per piece, Eva has curated a stunning display for the grand total of $70. It's proof that the chicest kitchen lighting ideas can cost less than a meal out, when you shop strategically.

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'It is wonderfully refreshing to see Eva Mendes’ kitchen accented by the TORARED pendant from IKEA,' comments Hebe Hatton, the head of Interior Design at Homes & Gardens.

'In a space that is otherwise crisp and minimal, the retro rattan adds a note of warmth and tactility, showing that even the most stylish kitchens do not need exclusive, high-end pieces. Doubling up on this $35 find, Eva demonstrates that thoughtful, accessible design can feel utterly luxe without the luxe price tag, a reiteration that great style is as much about curation as cost.'

Plus, Eva is not the only celebrity who loves IKEA. Last year, Sarah Jessica Parker similarly showed appreciation for their lighting, elevating her living room shelving with their KUDDLAVA pleated table lamp. Prior to that, we spotted the iconic KALLAX in Jared Leto's backdrop, styled with books and plants, as we all do.

Eva’s kitchen is proof that style and accessibility can genuinely coexist beautifully. With just a pair of $35 TORARED pendants, she has created a space that feels warm, curated, and beachy (while still keeping it chic). It reminds us that, even in celebrity homes, thoughtful choices rather than extravagant spending define a truly stylish kitchen island space.

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Nearly a year ago, Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling’s kitchen caught my attention with its bubblegum-pink accents and white-and-pink marbled countertops. The space has lingered in my mind ever since – and now, the design feels even more relevant for 2026 than it did at the time.

Decorating with pink is one of the best ways to infuse your home with some much-needed vibrancy, and Eva and Ryan show us how it's done in full force. From the pink fridge to the painted walls (Farrow & Ball's Estate Emulsion is a great dupe), the color is dominant without being distracting, balanced out beautifully with the calming white marble.

The design works so well because of the varied textures: from the glossy refrigerator to the veined marble, the blend of finishes maintains a dynamic appearance. It's a reminder that pink kitchen ideas don't need to feel childish. When paired with the right materials, this hue is utterly sophisticated. Below, I've curated some of my favorite finds inspired by Ryan and Eva's kitchen, as well as explored in detail why their kitchen ideas work so beautifully.

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The room is proof that mixing and matching different shades can work wonders. The deeper, brighter pink on the cabinets contrasts with the paler wall paint, bringing a harmonious blend to the area. And I am not alone in my thoughts.

'About a year ago, Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling’s kitchen also caught my eye with its bold bubblegum pink accents and swirls of white-and-pink marble, a combination that feels even more relevant in 2026,' comments Megan Slack, the head of Celebrity Style at Homes & Gardens.

'Pink room ideas are not just playful; they can transform a space with energy and warmth. Here, the color dominates through the fridge, cabinets, and painted walls, yet never overwhelms, balanced beautifully by the calm, veined white marble. The mix of textures and varied shades keeps the room dynamic and sophisticated, proving that pink can be both bold and harmonious when used with intention.'

Plus, you don't need to paint your cabinets to play with pink the same way as Eva.

To recreate the look, invest in a pink statement piece, like this KitchenAid stand mixer, alongside some more traditional accessories, like these ceramic bowls from Amazon.

Ultimately, Eva and Ryan’s kitchen reminds us that color is about personality, mood, and statement all at once. Pink is no longer a kitchen cabinet color trend to tiptoe around; it’s a bold choice that can define a space while feeling timeless. In 2026, embracing it with confidence is the surest way to make any room feel alive, modern, and unforgettable.

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Upon first glance, I thought Eva Mendes's front door was black. As I examined it further, however, I realized I was mistaken. It's actually midnight blue.

The actor's beautiful midnight blue front door color is painted on a stunning paneled door with a silver knob in the center. It is framed by white panelling with windows, filling the entryway with light. These stunningly designed elements are the perfect complement to their brick walls. The white entryway behind shows that the door creates an alluring contrast.

I've always loved a black front door; it's a classic, welcoming, and gives the entrance to the home a sophisticated feel. Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling's home shows that a deep blue has all of these benefits, plus added reflectiveness and a subtle pop of color. After seeing her home, I'm a total convert. Farrow & Ball's 'Black Blue' is a great lookalike.

Recreate Eva's Look with Blue Front Door Decor

Whether or not you plan to repaint your front door, you can harness some of the magic of Eva's look with a stylish front door design. A pretty wreath

Furthermore, Eva Mendes's front door color is completely timeless. Victoria Yardley, color expert and founder of Victory Colours, states: 'Classic navy is always a winner – it’s elegant, works with any style, and never looks dated.'

Furthermore, the start of the year is the perfect time to institute Eva's expensive-looking front door color on your home. Victoria advises: 'Your front door is part of the home’s curb appeal, and it’s amazing how a simple lick of paint can transform the look and feel of your home’s entrance. Front doors are all about making a statement, and if yours has seen better days, now is the time to revamp.'

When it comes to painting a front door, there are hundreds of options beyond the classic black and white. Subtle colors like Eva's Midnight blue are a great place to start.

Natural materials are staples in many modern homes for good reason: they instantly warm up and texturize any space they are placed in, whether it's a wood dining table or a rattan light fixture.

The latter has been on our minds ever since we laid eyes on Eva Mendes' gorgeous, woven pendant light in her kitchen, as seen on the actor's Instagram page.

The rattan texture and soft, brown hue add the perfect amount of visual intrigue and natural wonder to her otherwise white, minimal kitchen, proving that textured pendants make for timeless kitchen lighting ideas. While Eva's lamp looks bespoke, I found an almost identical alternative from IKEA. Enter – the TORARED Pendant lamp shade, available from IKEA for under $35.

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According to design experts, rattan endures due to its versatility and trend-forward nature, meaning you will be seeing it around a lot this year.

'We love to see the rattan furniture trend going into 2026,' Nicola Shaw, senior head of buying, homeware, at Urban Outfitters, says. 'With indoor/outdoor style staying key, rattan continues to be a timeless investment that can fit effortlessly into every space, no matter the size.'

She continues, 'It’s interesting to see how these '70s-inspired pieces are starting to move out of the bedroom and into the dining room and kitchen, from bar cabinets to lighting, it adds texture and warmth to every room. The beauty of rattan is that its raw material makes it easy for you to match it to your vibe.'

Nicola recommends pairing a fixture with smaller, softer natural accessories for a natural, elevated look.

'Use soft textiles such as cushions on dining furniture to complement the woven styles and add plants to bring more natural color to your surroundings… plants + rattan = our dream combo.'

We have our eyes on this woven tray from H&M, which would be fantastic for displaying spices and oils, and this $5 rattan placemat from IKEA for some chic, budget-friendly picks.

When it comes to Christmas decor, bigger is not always better. Small, subtle vignettes can infuse forgotten corners of your home with holiday spirit and help to extend the festivities. That's why, when we saw Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling's tabletop Christmas trees, we did a double-take.

Eva took to Instagram to share a picture perched on her countertops, and it's a rich text. The post is filled with design-led easter eggs, from the rattan lampshades to the potted plant, to a set of her signature Skura sponges (available at Amazon). Three miniature Christmas trees sit unassumingly behind the faucet, inviting the viewer in with a hint of holiday cheer.

The couple's take on Christmas decor shows that no area is too small or busy to integrate a reminder of the holidays. Let's take a look.

Recreate Eva and Ryan's Look at Home with the Tabletop Christmas Tree Edit

A huge aspect of what works about Ryan and Eva's miniature design is that it places Christmas decor in one of the most highly trafficked areas of their home. Hannah Prescott, Interior Designer at Diamond Interiors, explains: 'Festive décor works best when it appears in the everyday spaces people move through and use. Small, thoughtful touches can completely shift the atmosphere and boost morale.'

Though the choice of tabletop Christmas trees is an excellent way to achieve this effect, there are dozens of pathways to follow in Ryan and Eva's footsteps by infusing tiny doses of Christmas throughout your home.

Hannah advises: 'Adding a small festive arrangement, warm fairy lights, or seasonal mugs to the kitchen area creates little moments of joy during the day. It lifts the space without overwhelming it. A couple of frosted eucalyptus stems, or a few small ornaments, can add a festive feel without looking busy. The aim is to enhance what is already there, not overpower it.'

Christmas decor needn't be over-the-top to make a huge splash. Sometimes, it comes down to festive touches in the places where you would never expect them.

With the shift toward the festive season, we are warmly welcoming in holiday decor with open arms, and this year, the focus is distinctly on the kitchen. Transforming this space – the true heart of the home – is a significant 2025 trend, moving beyond simple tablescapes to integrate Christmas decor ideas into everyday design.

Celebrities are leading this elegant movement. Eva Mendes provided beautiful inspiration last year with a sophisticated display that remains highly relevant.

In her memorable post, the actress demonstrated how to elevate a kitchen island, pairing simple additions like miniature evergreen trees and a fresh, festive bouquet with her permanent fixtures, such as a gold faucet and woven lampshades. This subtle infusion of cheer into unexpected spaces is the key to spreading warmth throughout the entire home.

Before diving into new purchases, it’s essential to create a pristine canvas. Megan Slack, Head of Celebrity Style News at Homes & Gardens, advises on the critical first step for achieving this serene look: ‘Before diving into the excitement of decorating, take the time to clear away any clutter. A clear and tidy space will leave you with a calm, relaxing, and welcoming environment that’s perfect for unwinding during the busy holiday season.’

A thorough decluttering ensures surfaces, especially kitchen countertops, are ready to accommodate festive accessories without feeling visually overwhelmed.

Once the space is arranged, plotting a coherent palette is paramount. Megan Slack recommends deciding on a Christmas color scheme that reflects your style, particularly when setting a table:

‘Begin by deciding on what color scheme reflects your style – reds, greens, golds, and whites are perfect for incorporating Christmas-themed colors. Next, use a festive tablecloth or runner as the base for your display. For an elegant touch, think velvet or linen. You may want to choose the same color runner and napkins to create a harmonious feel to your table.’

For the centerpiece, the focus is on natural abundance and texture. Rachel Bull, Head of Gardens at Homes & Gardens, suggests incorporating both foliage and flowers:

‘For the Christmas centerpiece, use seasonal flowers such as white lilies, red roses, or amaryllis and arrange these in a vase. Incorporate evergreen branches for added texture. Traditional Christmas plants such as poinsettia, Cyclamen, and mini pine trees can also be used to create a focal point. Use Christmas napkins, name settings, ribbons, and crackers for an added decorative touch.’

To complete the sensory experience – a crucial component of any elegant space – scent is vital. We recommend adding high-quality scented candles to counters or tablescapes. Rachel suggests experimenting with home fragrances that evoke the season: ‘Experiment with different scents such as cinnamon and apple to get your home smelling like Christmas.’

By combining a clean, organized space with intentional, fragrant accessories, you transform your kitchen into a warm, convivial setting, ready to host and inspire throughout the holidays.

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Whenever I speak with designers about decor, trends, and styles that they feel are outdated, the floating shelf comes up a lot. With trends moving towards more characterful, personality-filled spaces, the very 2010s look of a floating shelf decorated with a stack of minimal frames and blah artwork, posed next to a carefully curated tower of books, does sound a bit tired.

However, I've noticed an increasing amount of ever-so-stylish kitchens that include floating shelves as a way to display crockery and decor, often instead of kitchen cabinets. Recently, I spied just the look in the kitchen of Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes, which offers a powerful counter-argument: this shelving idea isn't dead – it's simply where it's used and how it's styled that makes it feel relevant in 2025.

In Mendes' kitchen, which she shared a glimpse of on her Instagram, a simple black floating shelf can be seen housing her beautiful collection of crockery. The shelf itself is minimal, the crockery is not. The floating shelf creates the perfect space to style a display that instantly adds color and character to the room. Something that's so easy to recreate in any style or size of kitchen.

The floating shelf also replaces the upper cabinets in the kitchen, a huge kitchen trend that's only growing in popularity, offering more space for decor, while also making a kitchen feel lighter and more open.

Jennifer Ebert, editor of Homes & Gardens online, agrees that floating shelving very much has its place in the kitchen of 2025.

'The open design of floating shelves is popular because it fills the home with light,' she explains. 'The open space surrounding the shelves allows light to flow throughout the room, creating an open and airy effect. As we move away from darker, more closed-in interiors, floating shelves become a great kitchen storage idea.'

'They can also be used in areas where full cabinets would not fit. For instance, above the sink or the stove. This not only provides space to store practical items like often-used spices or cleaning supplies but also creates a platform for featuring decorative objects.’

'People are no longer satisfied with the lifeless, beige interiors of yore. 2025 and beyond are all about showcasing your individuality and bringing as much of your personality as possible into your home. Floating shelves provide the perfect opportunity to create a personal museum for showcasing your most beautiful and prized possessions. This is an especially wonderful idea in small or rented spaces, where you can't personalize in other ways.'

Shop the chicest floating shelves

Mendes' look is a refreshingly easy one to recreate, so if you have crockery you want to get on show to add some character to your home, these are my favorite floating shelves for all styles.

So the floating shelf hasn't died a death; it just needs to be put to use in the kitchen instead of a living room or a bedroom. The simplicity makes it perfect for this hardworking space, and creates an area in the kitchen that you can get a bit more creative with styling. Whether you want to display your nicest crockery as in Eva Mendes' kitchen, or create a vignette with cookbooks and vintage kitchenware, a floating shelf (or two) offers the perfect, easy-to-install surface.

Should you place a mirror above a fireplace? Ask one hundred interior designers, and you are likely to get one hundred different answers.

Sparking up the debate once again, the controversial design choice features as a bold focal point in actress Eva Mendes' living room.

Eva's mantelpiece decor, spotted in a recent Instagram post, consists of a large rectangular mirror positioned above a white marble fireplace. It reflects the paintings, white walls, and crown molding in the back of the room.

Though some design choices are a clear yes or clear no, the consensus around a mirror above a fireplace, as seen in Mendes's space, is much muddier.

Many designers swear by Eva's living room mirror idea.

The acclaimed NYC-based designer Kathy Kuo gushes to Homes & Gardens: 'A mirror styled above a fireplace mantel is a look we see over and over again for good reason – it’s classic and chic, and it works in pretty much any space.'

She adds: 'I love the way mirrors reflect light, making any room appear brighter (and bigger) than it actually is. This look also offers plenty of styling options. Either let the mirror shine on its own or create a layered vignette with the mirror against the wall and a few decorative accents in the foreground—think sculptural objects, books, framed photos, vases, or candles.

Others, however, are less sure about Mendes's fireplace idea.

Paulina Hospod, design expert at NYC-based AhA! Interiors states: 'I typically avoid hanging anything above a fireplace. To me, the fireplace is the focal point—it stands out best when finished with a beautiful mantle or striking stone or tile cladding.'

'Adding a mirror often reflects the surroundings, which can make the area feel visually cluttered and distract from the fireplace’s presence,' she continues. 'I don’t see any real advantages to doing so; it’s similar to placing a TV above a fireplace—something I generally advise against.'

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Though it's perfectly reasonable to have a hard and fast opinion on Eva's mantel decor idea, the truth is, how good or bad the decision looks depends on its styling.

Kathy Kuo, who is generally pro the look, qualifies: 'A mirror that’s too big or too small can look a bit out of place. As a general rule of thumb, aim for a mirror that’s about two-thirds the width of the mantel.'

What do you think? Do you love a mirror above the fireplace or hate it? Let us know in the comments.

Incorporating color into the kitchen is a fantastic way to make it feel more lively, inviting, and just plain fun. Pink in particular is a fantastic pick, as evidenced by Eva Mendes' kitchen.

The actor's space is bold yet elevated, thanks to a coral pink fridge, which serves as quite the statement piece. It transitions into painted cabinetry of the same hue, while marble countertops give the area a luxe feel. Needless to say, it's giving us some pink kitchen ideas.

In terms of decor, she has opted to display a variety of functional (and beautiful) dishware and ceramics, from her blush pink coffee mugs, to her green and white cereal bowls. Alongside some standard drinking glasses, the mix of materials and shapes are complementary and visually pleasing.

Her countertops are clear of clutter, while a handmade, ceramic vase acts as a decorative object. It's proof that often times, less is more, and leaving space on shelves and countertops is the move.

If you're looking to get this luxurious look, we have rounded up some of the key pieces from Eva's kitchen (at an incredibly affordable price range) below. Happy shopping!

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Gone are the days of gray and white cabinets; in 2025 and beyond, homeowners are selecting bold colors that reflect their personalities. Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling's bubblegum pink kitchen is the prime example.

The acting power couple has selected an orangey pink bank kitchen cabinet color to complement their pink and brown marble backsplash and countertops. It matches their fridge, and contrasts with the baby pink walls. It's a beautiful, abundant use of the shade.

Data from Google shows a 300% increase in search for bubblegum pink paints, demonstrating that Ryan and Eva's cabinet color is more than just a one-off; it's growing as a kitchen cabinet color trend.

Shop the Pink Kitchen Edit

Ally Dowsing-Reynolds, co-founder and interior expert at Dowsing & Reynolds, explains: 'Despite its previous connotations, pink is no longer reserved for children’s bedrooms and dated bathrooms. The beauty of this shade lies in its versatility and ability to work in many different spaces, from kitchens and bathrooms to bedrooms and living rooms.'

The shades of pink trend work especially well as a kitchen color idea. Ally states: 'Kitchens are often the most neutral areas of our homes, but this doesn’t have to be the case. Opt for fun, vibrant shades to give the space a modern feel.'

The way you decorate a pink room will vary based on the style and existing colors of the room.

Ally recommends: 'In bright kitchens, painting cabinets in a salmon or candy pink colour can work well to add warmth and personality to the space. To add a sophisticated touch, pair the pink cabinets with gold or brass hardware, creating an elevated contrast.'

She further advises: 'While pink room ideas can work in almost any space, some are better suited to certain hues. It is always important to consider the size of the room, the amount of natural lighting and the intended use before decorating, these factors can help to curate the perfect space personal to you.'

Luckily, there are a variety of ways to integrate Ryan and Eva's color trend into your home, many of which require no renovation. Whether you are bold or meek in your design, creating a pink kitchen is easier than you might think.

'Adding this shade to your home doesn’t have to mean re-painting your space; it can be as simple as adding a pop of pink through small details in your space, such as light switches and sockets,' explains Ally. 'The key when styling pink in the home is finding a balance and pairing it with other colors and textures to create a modern, fun look with some personality!'

She recommends: 'Punchy bubblegum pinks, pastel blush tones, and bright fuchsias are just some of the many options available. I would suggest starting small, especially if you are experimenting with colour in your home for the first time. Start by adding pops of pink through accessories. These can bring instant warmth to your space without being too overpowering.'

There is no shortage of underrated kitchen colors, but pink just might be the most misunderstood. With the approval of Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling, though, it's only a matter of time before the shade takes off.

'We make things beautiful by cleaning them, why not also clean with things that are beautiful?' Eva Mendes proclaims in a recent Instagram post. Her bold answer is the new Skura Style Swedish Cloth, aka Cloth Envy.

The actress pioneered this reusable alternative to the paper towel with the cleaning supplies brand to upgrade her experience of her home. It's a stylish, colorful paper towel that can be endlessly reused. We've long had Eva's partnership with Skura Style on our radar, and this latest launch has completely upped the game.

Eva explains her kitchen essential stating: 'Anyone in my life basically knows that I'm a frustrated interior designer. I love design. I love architecture. I love cleaning. So I wanted to design a new product. You ready for it? This is our Swedish cloth. It's basically a gorgeous reusable paper towel. I mean it's a next-level paper towel.'

What makes this product the paper towel of the future? First, it is much more aesthetically pleasing than the traditional countertop wipes for cleaning a kitchen. Eva gushes: 'It comes in 3 different styles. Notice that they're gorgeous. Come on, it's so pretty.'

The mark of a great cleaning product ultimately comes down to its capabilities, and this Swedish Cloth delivers on every count. It's absorbent, perfect for sprays or wiping up messes.

Eva explains: 'It's great for spills. I love a good wipe down. Isn't that so beautiful?'

Finally, the reusable nature of Eva's recommendation makes it the perfect non-toxic cleaning product to avoid harming the planet. Rather than using a whole roll of paper towels, you can keep it to just one cloth used over a few weeks.

This will likely also help you save money in the long run, because the cost of buying paper towels quickly adds up.

Shop More Eva-Mendes-Recommended Cleaning Essentials

You can have the most beautiful home in the world, but if it isn't clean, it doesn't matter. Using the right tools makes it easier and more enjoyable to keep it up.

Wainscoting, or wall paneling, is one of the oldest ways to add visual interest to kitchen walls. This textured, sometimes colorful decorating method can be beautiful when done right but can also look outdated. Eva Mendes's kitchen design falls firmly into the first camp.

Mendes's wainscoting idea combines blue lower walls with white upper walls. As seen on Instagram here, she has hung art higher up to reflect the color from the lower half of the kitchen into the upper half. It corresponds gorgeously with the natural hardwood floors. The white line details running through the panels connect it to the top part of the wall for a cohesive look. It's unique, striking, and original.

We consulted with interior designers to understand why Mendes's walls look alluring rather than dated. 'Half-height paneling is a simple but effective way to add depth and character to a room,' explains Melissa Read, principal designer at Studio Burntwood. The way Mendes has executed the wall paneling idea is especially interesting, nodding to historical design styles. Nicholas Kaiko, a Sydney-based interior designer, states: 'The blue lower panels immediately evoke a 1950s Americana aesthetic with the crisp white trim reinforcing that era’s love for high-contrast yet approachable interiors. The center square boss or medallion on each panel introduces a subtle nod to Hollywood Regency, adding a touch of ornamentation that feels deliberate rather than overly fussy.'

The Blue Kitchen Edit

If now's not the right time to paint, you can still incorporate pops of blue into your kitchen to harness the essence of what makes this look so attractive.

To panel a wall in a similar style, colors are essential. 'To keep it feeling fresh, color is key,' explains Read. 'Deep, muted blue, such as Prussian, Hague, or French navy, work particularly well in living and dining spaces, bringing a sense of depth and atmosphere without overwhelming the room. A satin or matte eggshell finish stops it from feeling too heavy. The height should typically sit between 900-1100mm depending on ceiling height to keep proportions balanced. For balance, contrast the rich blue with the softer, neutral tones above, and bring in texture with linen upholstery, aged woods, or warm metallics like antique brass or bronze. This stops the space from feeling overly formal and ensures the paneling works as a backdrop rather than dominating the room.'

However, if you are considering installing this same look in your home, there are pitfalls to consider. Kaiko cautions: 'Painted wainscoting is one of those elements that requires a very careful hand. It can read as charming and timeless or DIY and uninspired, depending on the color choice and execution. Here, the rich but not overly saturated blue keeps it from feeling like a theme park. It also allows the trim work to remain crisp and architectural rather than veering into kitsch.

Painted wainscoting is unconventional, but it can be gorgeous when done right. Eva Mendes's kitchen is the proof.

With the wide variety of high-end cleaning products on the market, it can be hard to know what to buy. However, sometimes, the classics are just as good (or even better) than more bespoke alternatives. Catherine Zeta-Jones commits to this philosophy with her love for lavender Fabuloso.

She spoke about her ultimate cleaning supply choice with The Strategist. Zeta-Jones explained: 'Years and years and years ago, I had this housekeeper that was like another mother to me. She used this Fabuloso cleaner (available on Amazon). Every time I walked into my house, I’d go, “Ugh, it smells so fresh,” and she’d go, in this singsong kind of voice, “Fabuloso! Fabuloso!” My house doesn’t feel clean unless I can smell Fabuloso.'

Fabuloso is widely known as one of the most cost-effective ways to keep your home clean. Their multi-surface and floor cleaner is highly concentrated, so a single bottle can be used for months. Further, it works on different surfaces, eliminating the need for a million different cleaning products under the sink for different tasks. At under $5 for a long-lasting bottle, it's a cleaning supply worth buying from Amazon.

I’m a bit of a clean fanatic, I have to say, and I do clean a lot myself now, especially in [the 2020] lockdown. I’m constantly disinfecting and cleaning everything with my Fabuloso. I use it on the floors. I use it on my counters. I use it on my walls. I use it on my doors. When I smell it, I know my house is clean.'

The Celebrity Cleaning Edit

With Thanksgiving officially behind us, we are welcoming in Christmas decor with open arms. For many of us, this means dusting off our boxes of accessories, or acquiring some new ones.

Eva Mendes has given us some Christmas decor ideas in the form of her kitchen island toppers. In a post recently shared to her Instagram page, we can see the Ghost Rider and Hitch star has added some mini trees, along with a festive bouquet to her kitchen counter. The holiday-friendly accessories pair perfectly with her more permanent kitchen fixtures, including a gold faucet and woven lampshades.

While tablescapes are a main focus for those of us entertaining and hosting on Christmas, adding festive decor in unexpected spaces is a fantastic way to spread the cheer around the home.

While it can be exciting to purchase new items, it is important to consider items you already have on hand to ensure that clutter does not build up on surfaces like your kitchen countertops.

'Before diving into the excitement of decorating, take the time to clear away any clutter. A clear and tidy space will leave you with a calm, relaxing, and welcoming environment that’s perfect for unwinding during the busy holiday season,' says Rebecca Baddeley, head of design at JD Williams. 'Sort out which of your items you no longer need so you can make room for the festive décor, presents, and guests that will soon fill your home.'

Once a clean space has been arranged, Baddeley recommends plotting out a general palette for your Christmas decor, whether you are adding some simple accessories to your countertops or plotting out a tablescape.

'Begin by deciding on what color scheme reflects your style – reds, greens, golds, and whites are perfect for incorporating Christmas-themed colors,' she says. 'Next, use a festive tablecloth or runner as the base for your display. For an elegant touch, think velvet or linen. You may want to choose the same color runner and napkins to create a harmonious feel to your table.

She continues, 'For the centerpiece, use seasonal flowers such as white lilies, red roses, or amaryllis and arrange these in a vase. Incorporate evergreen branches for added texture. Traditional Christmas plants like poinsettia, Cyclamen, and mini pine trees can also be used to create a focal point. Use Christmas napkins, name settings, ribbons, and crackers for an added decorative touch.'

Additionally, we recommend adding some scented candles onto a counter or tablescape to further enhance the festive ambiance in your space.

Baddeley has a few scent recommendations: 'Experiment with different scents such as pumpkin, cinnamon and apple to get your home smelling like Christmas.'

Love it or hate it, gray is perhaps one of the most commonly-used paint colors in the home, and it looks like there are no signs of it fading any time soon. We are partial to a gray kitchen, and there's one in particular that stood out to us recently.

Eva Mendes, actor and star of The Place Beyond The Pines and Ghost Rider, just shared a photo of her modern kitchen on Instagram, and we couldn't help but admire the way she styled around her walls, giving us some gray kitchen ideas.

The unassuming background is accented by pops of color thanks to a beautiful flower bouquet, gold accents on the walls and cabinets, and bright green bowls sitting on a floating shelf. It's proof that gray goes with anything.

According to experts, Mendes' strategy of introducing colorful items into her neutral space is one that comes highly recommended for anyone looking to brighten a room.

"Incorporating bright, happy hues like sunshine yellow or sky blue can make your space feel more energetic and uplifting,' Hannah Prescott, interior designer at Diamond Interiors says. 'Color choices play a big role in the feel of a space.'

She continues, 'An imbalanced color scheme can make a room feel off-kilter. Too much grey can make you feel cold, while an overload of yellow can feel overwhelming. A balanced color palette helps regulate emotions. Using more than three colors in a room can create visual confusion and make it hard for the brain to rest. Try a harmonious balance by following the 60-30-10 rule for color distribution.'

Prescott further explains that this rule is a suggestion for creating balance within a space, so that it does not feel too neutral or colorful.

'The 60-30-10 rule is a traditional decorating guideline for creating a color palette in a space,' she elaborates. 'It suggests that 60% of the room should feature a dominant color, 30% should incorporate a secondary color or texture, and the remaining 10% should be used for accents.'

We can see that Mendes has taken this brief well, with the hanging artwork seamlessly blending into the gray walls, while the dark painted cabinets provide contrast, and the colorful accessories enliven the space.

Below, find some vibrant accessories that suit any kitchen space.

Shop H&G's Gray Kitchen Edit

While the color combinations with gray are endless, e recommend pairing gray with blue accessories for a coastal look, or a bright pop of red, yellow, orange, or pink for a burst of dopamine decor.

Starting with the 'bookshelf wealth' trend, all eyes have been on shelving this year. Shelving is attractive to homeowners and designers because it functions both as storage and as a site for decor. Floating shelves, like the one in Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes’s kitchen, are the latest iteration of the trend.

We spotted the kitchen shelving in a recent Instagram post from Mendes. In the photo, she stands in front of a gray wall. On the left, a large painting adorns the wall. On the right, above the sink, a natural wood shelf features a set of gorgeous green and blue decorative bowls. The wood of the shelf is elevated by gold hardware, while a bouquet of fresh flowers makes the bowls on the floating shelf appear all the more vibrant.

According to experts, floating shelves are the next big interior design trend in kitchen storage. ‘Although cabinets will always be the first line of defense in terms of storing flatware, food, and kitchen appliances, floating shelves are quickly rising in the ranks,' comments H&G's digital editor, Jennifer Ebert.

'First of all, they can be used in areas where full cabinets would not fit. For instance, above the sink or the stove. This not only provides space to store practical items like often used spices or cleaning supplies but creates a platform for featuring decorative objects.’

We explore why Eva Mendes and Ryan Goslings' floating shelves are still perfectly on trend for 2026 in our separate feature.

She continues, ‘Furthermore, the open design of floating shelves is popular because it fills the home with light. The open space surrounding the shelves allows light to flow throughout the room, creating an open and airy effect. As we move away from darker, more closed-in interiors, floating shelves become a great kitchen storage idea.'

The popularity of floating shelves and decorating shelving in general hinges on a larger movement in interior design towards more personalized spaces. Ebert says, 'People are no longer satisfied with the lifeless, beige interiors of yore. 2025 is all about showcasing your individuality and bringing as much of your personality as possible into your home. Floating shelves provide the perfect opportunity to create a personal museum for showcasing your most beautiful and prized possessions. This is an especially wonderful idea in small or rented spaces, where you can't personalize in other ways.'

Shop H&G's Favorite Floating Shelves

No matter your interior design style, you can easily recreate Mendes and Gosling's design in your home. We love this rustic shelf from Wayfair for a more grounded and cozy space, this white scalloped shelf from West Elm for a more modern look, or this two-level piece from Etsy for those who prefer to keep more items on display.

For those hoping to recreate the look more precisely, we recommend investing in an elegant dinnerware set. This allows you to use the floating shelf as dual storage for your dinnerware, which is also a design-led statement. Gosling and Mendes have opted for a floral, more traditionally painted style that brings a pop of color to the space above your sink. If your style is more neutral or modern, try sculptural pottery pieces instead. The possibilities are endless.

The floating shelf is emerging as one of the biggest trends of 2025. Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes are trailblazing the look.

The question of how to make a space feel bigger is one that intrigues designers in even the largest of homes, all for a good reason. Who wouldn't want a space that feels larger, brighter, and airier? It would seem that Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes are the latest homeowners to show they're not immune from space-enhancing tricks – or at least, that's what their vertical wall tiles suggest.

Mendes shared a glimpse inside the couple's shared kitchen – and it's a space we've already admired once before. Last time, we took a moment for their ability to keep the all-white colorway interesting, but now, we're returning to take note of their kitchen tiles that are placed vertically. The layout isn't conventional, but with aestheic and practical benefits to consider, it's no surpise that this look is only set to increase in popularity throughout the rest of 2024 and into the new year.

'This is a trend that started with the iconic metro tile being laid vertically instead of its classic horizontal brick effect. 2024’s vertical tiled walls draw the eye upwards – an interior design trick that just doesn’t get old,' comments Grazzie Wilson, the head of Creative at Ca’ Pietra.

'Laying tiles in a vertical pattern is a more modern approach than choosing a traditional horizontal layout Running tiles vertically helps to add height to a room and create an illusion of space.'

Gosling and Mendes have opted for a matte finish, but Wilson explains that we can accuate the qualities further by choosing a glossy finish. 'This helps to bounce light around to keep the room feeling light and fresh,' she says. For a similar starting point, love these thin glossy tiles avilable from Lowe's below.

With its modern aesthetic and ability to make our kitchens feel larger, this emerging tile trend has a place in kitchens of every size (after all, we'd hazard a guess that Gosling and Mendes's space isn't too compact. However, before we follow suit entirely, there are some placement tips we need to remember to ensure these tiles do more harm than good.

'When you install tiles vertically, their joint lines tend to become more visible so it's best to use large format lines or neutral-toned grout lines, otherwise the room would look congested,' Wilson explains. 'Choosing a neutral grout line with neutral tiles (did we mention these are bang on trend at the moment) creates a more appealing and warm space than going with white tiles.'

Interior design does not always have to be ground-breaking or out there. Often, simplicity is best. This is certainly the case in Eva Mendes's neutral living room, which features splashes of the timeless color greige. The effect is stunning.

The actor and star of The Place Beyond the Pines and Hitch recently shared an Instagram video in her light and bright living space, featuring a greige living room sofa layered with neutral accent pillows and throw blankets. Greige, a portmanteau of 'gray' and 'beige' describes a color that is halfway between the two neutral shades. In contrast, in Mendes's space, darker greige curtains contrast the white-painted walls. There's also a touch of nature in the space, with a small tree adding some greenery to the area.

Though decorating with greige is a relatively common practice in interiors, it's for good reason. The light blend of gray and beige brings together warm and cool tones for a delightful combination that goes with practically any other neutral, as well as colors. 'Neutrals are incredibly versatile, harmonizing with a wide range of styles from modern and minimalist to traditional and rustic,' says designer Nina Lichtenstein of the colors' enduring appeal. 'They serve as a perfect backdrop for any personal touches or bold statement pieces you might want to incorporate.'

Another focal point in the living room is the potted tree that sits behind Mendes. It strongly contributes to the neutral color palette's association with nature. Lichtenstein asserts that introducing plants is one of the best ways to decorate with neutrals. 'Bring in elements from nature to add organic beauty and texture,' she states. 'Potted plants, wooden furniture, and stone accessories can create a harmonious and balanced look. Greenery, in particular, adds a fresh and lively touch to a neutral setting.'

While not the main element of decor, planning living room lighting is crucial to ensuring that neutrals are present in an appealing manner. 'Thoughtful lighting design can transform a neutral bedroom,' Lichtenstein says. 'Use a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Consider bedside lamps, wall sconces, and pendant lights to add both function and style.'

She continues, 'We can see that Mendes has utilized natural light to give the space an airy feel, with big windows featuring half-open curtains.

Finally, to recreate the look and use texture in a neutral space, consider adding reflective pieces for both function and style. 'Incorporate mirrors and other reflective surfaces to enhance the sense of space and light,' Lichtenstein suggests. 'A strategically placed mirror can make a room feel larger and more open while also adding an elegant touch.'

Shop the Neutral Living Room Edit

Overall, neutrals are a timeless palette that can work in any room within the home, and as Mendes proves, they look especially tasteful in the living area. We suggest layering textured pieces, such as a woven blanket or boucle sofa, to increase visual interest.

The kitchen is the heart of the home. It is the perfect place to gather with family, share laughter during a meal, or take a quiet moment over morning coffee. Simultaneously, the kitchen is also the site of the most commonly dreaded daily tasks: washing the dishes. What if this everyday annoyance was less, well, annoying? This is the future Skura Style, a lifestyle cleaning brand co-owned by Eva Mendes, is setting out to create.

Skura Style was started by two best friends who wanted to create a smarter alternative to the classic kitchen sponge. Eva Mendes, who 'finds doing the dishes oddly exciting,' shared their vision and quickly joined the brand as a co-owner and brand ambassador. Popular cleaning tips recommend making cleaning fun, and the smart, stylish designs of the brand epitomize this ethos. As their website tells us, with Skura, 'cleaning isn't a chore, it's an art form.'

What is so special about Skura Style's cleaning products? First off, their original Skrubby Sponge is changing the way we clean a kitchen. These technologically advanced kitchen scrubbers are built to be cleaner, safer, and more pleasant to use than a classic sponge. The anti-microbial polyurethane construction resists odors and the formation of bacteria. In fact, they have 99.9% fewer E. coli than traditional cellulose sponges. When it's time to switch out your sponge, the monogram on the scrubbing side fades away. The sponge is also designed to avoid trapping food particles, even common sticky culprits like cheese and egg.

In a recently posted Instagram video of Mendes washing dishes with a Skura Sponge, she states: 'When I heard that the average kitchen sponge is 200,000 times dirtier than a toilet seat, I made finding a sponge good enough for my home and my family my mission. That's when I discovered Skura Style sponges. They're anti-microbial so they don't smell, and they tell you when it's time to replace them. So if you never want to touch a another stinky, soggy, bacteria-filled sponge again...,' she then throws the sponge at the camera. Talk about an endorsement.

Skura makes more than just sponges. Since the original Skrubby, the brand has expanded to make scouring pads, kitchen towels, and wipes, so you can innovate with all of your cleaning tools. With Skura, it's easy to keep your cleaning supplies clean.

No matter how you choose to clean, it's important to incorporate joy into your daily rituals as much as possible. Eva Mendes finds it through using Skura Style, and we're ready to invest and see if we will feel the same.

Every year at this point in the calendar we observe the new and exciting furniture trends that influence the most stylish exterior spaces. However, while we look for new inspiration, we continue to revive the patterns and colors that are consistently labeled as timeless – and nobody has nailed this aesthetic quite like Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes.

Mendes, who lives with her husband, Ryan Gosling, offered a glimpse of the outdoor furniture they're using to unwind this summer. If this footage is anything to go by, they've opted for the most ageless pattern of all: stripes.

Best associated with the nautical design style, stripes are often used to tap into the New England coastal style, which is versatile enough to work in homes far beyond the northeast coast. Striped furniture, especially in a gray-blue hue like the one seen in Mendes and Gosling's backyard, continues to return to exterior spaces annually – but this is no surprise to designers who say that exterior settings are the best places for such pieces.

'Patterned furniture introduces visual interest and depth to any space. In outdoor settings, where natural elements dominate, adding patterns through cushions, rugs, and even furniture upholstery can break the monotony of plain surfaces,' comments designer Jodi Peterman from Elizabeth Erin Designs. However, while its good looks are inevitably important, Peterman says these pieces need to be functional, too.

'For instance, in a project, our team designed in Downtown Des Moines with Hubbell Development for Maxwell Apartments, geometric designs, colors, and abstract patterns created focal points that draw the eye and invite guests to explore different areas of the space. A space not only has to look visually appealing, but it needs to function first and foremost,' Peterman explains. 'Using different patterns allows you to play with color and design in ways that plain furniture cannot achieve.'

In Gosling and Mendes' space, they have kept things timeless with a rich, almost neutral gray-blue color palette (that only further emphasizes the nautical aesthetic). However, as Peterman reassures, it's hard to go wrong with any kind of patterned furniture – whether we opt for neutrals or more vibrant hues.

'A bold, patterned outdoor sofa can set the tone for a lively, energetic ambiance, while subtle, intricate patterns can evoke a sense of tranquility and elegance,' she says. 'By choosing patterns that complement the natural surroundings, you can seamlessly blend your outdoor furniture with the landscape, creating a harmonious and inviting environment that you and your guests will enjoy.'

While stripes are the star of Gosling and Mendes's yard, other pattrens can bring a similar statment to an exterior space.

'Your choice of patterns reflects your personal style and can transform an ordinary outdoor space into a true extension of your home. Whether you prefer classic stripes [like Mendes], playful polka dots, or sophisticated damask patterns, there’s a design to match every taste,' Peterman explains.

'Patterned furniture provides an opportunity to showcase your unique personality and create an outdoor retreat that feels authentically yours! Explore these tips and have fun with them.'

Shop the edit

It is certainly not uncommon for interior experts to discuss cabinet tones that are setting design trends – or, better yet, transcending trends – but as Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes's kitchen reminds us, there's more to cabinets than our chosen hue. 

In their home, Gosling and Mendes have opted for an ageless cabinet color, white, but their design decisions are anything but boring – thanks to their handles (or, more correctly, lack of handles), which are a minimalist lover's dream. Though timeless, white kitchen cabinets can (sometimes) be at risk of feeling clinical. However, Gosling and Mendes' 'hidden' handles ensure the space feels sleek, modern, and right on-trend, as experts explain. 

'More hidden and simple storage is becoming popular in 2024,' comments William Durrant, owner of Herringbone. And there's arguably nothing quite as discreet as cabinetry with recessed handles.

There are several ways to tap into the minimalist kitchen storage movement –  but recessed handles are our editor's current favorite. 'Though trending, recessed handles are far from a fleeting fad,' comments Jennifer Ebert, the digital editor of Homes & Gardens. 'As subtly beautiful as they are practical, I'm hailing these handles as the unsung hero of a minimalist kitchen, but you don't need to embrace this pared-back aesthetic to get involved with the trend.' 

In Gosling and Mendes' case, their recessed handles tap into a wider minimalist style, complete with uncluttered marble countertops and vertical tiles adding interest to the splashback. However, as Ebert hints, there's a place for these handles beyond the conventionally minimalist kitchen. 

'This look naturally lends itself to Scandi-minimal-style kitchens, but there's no reason why you can't bring hidden handles into more maximalist rooms. They're just as beautiful and functional, no matter the backdrop.'

As Durrant explains, there is a rising kitchen trend for hidden and simple storage ideas (with recessed handles trailblazing the way). Though Gosling and Mendes's inspiration aside, there are more reasons to tap into the movement. 

'Floor-to-ceiling units and lower runs of cabinets are also being designed with clever storage in mind,' Durrant comments.

'These, combined with the floating shelves and on-display units, look wonderful in either oak or stone with a stone splashback. These shelves, which can be placed above the sink or in utility rooms, are beautiful, functional, and act as a lovely feature in any space. These shelves open up the kitchen and create a lovely sense of space, especially if you have high units or upper cabinetry.'

Shop the white kitchen edit

Cabinets aside, we can tap into Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes' minimalist kitchen with our top minimalist picks below. 

Few names are currently discussed as much as Ryan Gosling. The Barbie actress made headlines for his musical tribute to the aforementioned movie at last night's Academy Awards, but we confess, we're slightly more interested in his life off-stage – in the abode he calls home. 

Together with his wife, actress Eva Mendes, Ryan mastered the use of neutrals throughout their Southern California property – but arguably nothing showcases this palette like their white living room. In this space, Gosling and Mendes have used white in excess, but their space doesn't feel clinical or boring. The key, experts say, is their injection of color that breaks up their space and brings the room to life. 

In their living room, Gosling and Mendes have used a collection of colored cushions, vibrant artworks, and tropical houseplants to interrupt the monotony of the all-white design. However, the versatility of this hue means any colored soft furnishings and artwork will work in our space. 

'A white living room also offers endless styling possibilities, so you can easily switch up the look whenever you want. You can take a minimalist approach with neutral furniture and minimal decor, or add pops of color with bold statement pieces such as a rug or art,' comments real estate expert Carmelo Carrasco.  

Colors aside, we should also look to incorporating different textures to add interest to our neutral spaces. Gosling and Mendes do this through their combination of glass and wood tables and their pleated rug that anchors their sitting area – but in the same way that it's hard to go wrong with colors –it's similarly hard to make a wrong choice with textures.

'Adding a variety of textures will create visual interest and keep the space from looking too one-note.  White provides a neutral canvas to play around with, so you can experiment with different color palettes and textures.'

It is perhaps no secret that decorating with neutrals, predominantly white, is both timeless and versatile, but there is more to this tone than its flexibility. 

'An all-white living room has the added benefit of creating a spacious feel to any room, no matter the size,' Carrasco explains. This is especially important if you have a smaller room, as all-white colors will help to enlarge the space visually. For instance, the addition of reflective surfaces such as mirrored furniture, glossy white tables, and glass-like materials can work to make the space feel larger than it actually is.'

While we're almost certain this isn't a huge problem in Gosling and Mendes's space, we still welcome any small living room tips, especially when this look is approved by those at the peak of Hollywood. 

Shop H&G's white living room edit

Achieving a 'clean' kitchen aesthetic goes beyond our cleanliness levels. Alongside good hygiene, this style is often associated with bright neutral cabinets and countertop hues (especially white) that offer a radiant feel to any sized space. However, in all their qualities, these tones can sometimes fringe on appearing too clinical (especially when used in abundance) – so how can we avoid a cold aesthetic? Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes may have unintentionally revealed a starting point. 

Actress Eva, married to Oscar-nominee Ryan Gosling, shared her 'clean' kitchen (both in terms of its color scheme and hygiene levels), but the space doesn't feel unwelcoming. The key? Their kitchen tiles that cover the entirety of their back wall. 

Eva and Ryan's tiles may be subtle and neutral, but they bring just the right amount of interest to the room. Their soft colorway means they don't over-intrude or interrupt the 'clean' style, but their pattern brings instant interest to the otherwise color-blocked space. It's a technique that hasn't gone unnoticed by experts who urge us to follow the couple's teaching.

'People are ready to embrace maximalism in their homes by combining a range of different materials, textures, and patterns all within the same scheme, begins Leandro Pacheco, the founder of Everett and Blue.

'Clients who previously maintained a clean aesthetic are now using our tiles as focal points such as their kitchen backsplash, fireplaces, and outdoor bar areas.' And Leandro is not alone in his observations. 

'Tiles are beautiful pieces of art on their own and have the power to utterly transform a room. Using tiles as a kitchen splashback is an exquisite way of displaying and accentuating their pattern, texture, and glaze,' adds Andrew Bendall, the marketing manager at Craven Dunnill Jackfield.

As mentioned, Ryan and Eva opted for neutral kitchen tiles that are impactful enough to add interest to their white kitchen. However, we can take their technique further by choosing brighter or glossy pieces that are equally as approved by experts.

'A beautiful way to bring a burst of color into a room, highly reflective gloss tiles are also a great way to create a sense of space and openness,' Andrew says. 'Whether you’re looking to go bright and bold or simple and classic, our offering of tiles comes in a whole range of styles and designs to suit all types of homes.

Shop the look

If you polled 100 interior designers on the 'best cabinet colors,' chances are, the vast majority of them would likely answer 'neutrals.' 

However, while cabinet shades like white, gray, and natural wood are the most popular, it doesn't necessarily mean they are the best. Ultimately, the best interior design choices are the ones that make your heart sing, regardless of trends or resale value. And, oh, do Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes's cabinets sing.

Actress Eva took to Instagram to share a video of her and Ryan's home, revealing their bright yellow kitchen cabinet color. Though it's not a shade you see every day, the yellow cabinet color has a powerful, uplifting impact in Eva's retro, vintage-inspired space. 

 In Eva Mendes's kitchen, the yellow cabinets bring in a vibrant and cheerful look, especially complimenting the retro oven range,' comments San-Francisco-based designer Soledad Alzaga. 'Their brightness adds personality to the space, and when combined with the yellow walls, the room takes on a monochromatic look, giving it a fun retro feel.' The contrast of the bright, matte cabinet color with Eva's black, glossy countertops further the vintage energy of her space.

Jennifer Ebert, digital editor at Homes & Gardens adds, 'The nostalgia of Eva Mendes's yellow kitchen makes the look especially uplifting. She chooses a vintage theme and runs with it, and this retro look comes through in every aspect of the space; from the silver cabinet pulls to the vintage-style oven. It's not just a yellow kitchen, but a call back to a specific era of design history.'

When creating a bold-colored kitchen like Eva Mendes's bright yellow space, style is important. Soledad states: 'It's a bold choice, and it works well in her retro-style kitchen, but it's a difficult color choice in modern kitchens.' In other words, if you are considering replicating Eva's look, consider what shades will match best with your design style.

Though designers don't see the look becoming a massive kitchen cabinet trend, aspects of the look are certainly in vogue. Jennifer says, 'In recent years, there has been so much conversation in fashion around the idea of "personal style." These cabinets are personal style for interiors. Rather than designing based on trends, cost, or saleability, Eva Mendes has designed with her heart. That will always be in style.'

Shop the Yellow Kitchen Edit

If you're not ready to paint the entire kitchen, add a splash of the bright and cheerful shade to your space with yellow accessories.

Whether it's bright yellow kitchen cabinets or something more subtle, highly-personalized design choices will always pay off.

Is there a better combination than white and wood? Versatile, warm, modern, and classic, this duo has staying power for a reason; it works everywhere from the bedroom, where wooden bed frames can contrast white walls, to the kitchen, where white cabinetry looks effortless amongst wooden countertops. 

Eva Mendes is an ambassador of the latter camp; in a recent Instagram post, the actor shared a mini house tour, showing off the living and dining areas of her and husband Ryan Gosling's home. The white and wood runs throughout, from the kitchen to the sitting area, which features white walls and mid-century modern wood seats.

According to experts, the reason white and wood work so well together is because they're the perfect combination of textural detail with a calm, pleasing color.

'The key with a neutral kitchen is to pair cabinetry with contrasting walls and textural elements,' says Tom Howley, design director at the eponymous kitchen company. 'This will give the design an edge and create appealing visual interest. If your kitchen cabinets are crisp white or cream, you could opt for a contrasting walnut finish for the racks and shelving within. Choose a smoky wood finish for the internal shelving for a stylish edge.'

To enhance the visual interest of white and wood even further, Tom suggests incorporating multiple hues into the design scheme. 

'Soft shades of warm whites and earthy beige work well on their own but even better when used in a two-tone scheme,' he says. 'If you're using lighter colors to enhance your space, then try painting your walls in the same shade; this will focus your eye on the whole area, allowing it to feel larger and lighter.'

To top it all off, consider how the room is lit; this is make or break in ensuring the ambiance remains warm with an airy feel (bonus points for big windows that allow natural light to stream through).

'Timeless neutrals are susceptible to change, depending on the light available,' Tom explains. 'We consider where natural light is coming from and how task lighting will create varying shades. Use lighting to your advantage and choose a combination of colors that look fresh in the day but warm and inviting at night.'

Have you ever wondered about how to make your home feel brighter? Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling just might have the answers. Eva, The Other Guys actress, took to Instagram to share her midcentury modern living room, and interior designers were impressed by how the couple increases natural light in their home.

Peek inside Eva Mendes and husband Ryan Gosling's rarely-seen living space below.

The humorous Instagram video shows Eva Mendes joking with the camera while dusting her glass Noguchi coffee table with a Skura-style wipe. Eva kneels on a tan and black rattan rug with a light greige sofa behind her. In the background of the bright room, we note Eva Mendes's large warehouse-style windows and the wall of door-sized windowpanes leading into the next room. Sky-blue reflections on the coffee table indicate that the room could include skylights as well. 

Interior design experts love the light living room idea, which they say is brightened by four main design features: the warehouse-sized windows, the windowed wall, the white walls, and the glass coffee table. We explored each in depth with the experts below.

Design experts say that warehouse-style windows and glass walls are the main light-increasing features in Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling's living room. Constantine Anest, a design-focused contractor, begins, 

'The contemporary warehouse-style windows contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the interior, adding a touch of modernity and industrial charm. The large, expansive windows on the wall create a sense of openness and spaciousness in the room, making it feel brighter and more inviting. The minimalistic design of the windows also adds a sleek and clean look to the space, enhancing the overall contemporary feel.'

Constantine continues, 'The benefits of these windows for natural light are numerous. The expansive size of the windows allows for a significant amount of natural light to enter the space, brightening up the interior and creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The warehouse-style windows are made of large glass panels, which maximizes the amount of light that can enter the room. The abundant natural light not only reduces the need for artificial lighting during the day but also creates a connection between the inside and outside.' 

He emphasizes that these windows are a brilliant mood-boosting design idea that can help boost happiness and productivity.

Jen Ebert, Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens, states that the white living room idea and reflective surfaces in Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling's home are also huge contributors to the light feeling in the space. 'The white walls and white floors create a reflective surface in this mid-century modern living room,' says Jen. 'This allows the bright light from multiple windows to bounce off the walls and multiply across the room, resulting in an exceptionally bright space.

Jen adds, 'Glass furniture like the clear coffee table further brightens Eva's space. It allows the light to flow through, rather than blocking the sun. This property offers the full, bright feeling in this living room.'

Shop Eva Mendes's coffee table below to get started on curating your very own light-filled space. With Eva's tips, you can learn to make even the darkest living room brighter.