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.

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'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.

If you're chronically online, you might have heard of the British term for overhead lighting: Simply, 'the big light'. La La Land actor Ryan Gosling first learned the term in front of an audience of millions via BBC Radio 1, when host Greg James discussed the unpleasantness of such a fixture – and rather unsurprisingly, Ryan Gosling similarly wasn't a fan.

'[It's a big, big, bright light in the middle of the room,' Greg explains. 'Lamps are nice, soft lighting. But the big light is like we're in a [grocery store],' to which Ryan nods in agreement. 'I couldn't agree more,' he says.

In the US, such lights are more commonly known as overhead lighting – but regardless of the term, the effect remains the same. Whether it's the bedroom, kitchen, or living room lighting ideas in question, turning on overhead lighting is often too overpowering.

However, there are many more ambidextrous solutions available, starting with the aforementioned lamps, such as this scalloped piece from Target. These will ensure your space is well-curated, ambient, and Ryan Gosling-approved.

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Lighting experts, including Niki Wright and Scarlett Hampton, the co-founders of lights&lamps, agree. Instead of simply following lighting trends, they suggest starting with fixtures where the glow is easily adaptable.

'There are a few ways in which you can create ambience with lighting in a kitchen, living and dining room. The main way is to choose light fixtures where the light direction and brightness level is adjustable,' they say.

'Creating a layered, ambient lighting effect in any of these rooms can also be achieved by using dimmer switches, which will allow you to adjust the light levels throughout the day. For kitchens, consider using a low-hanging pendant over a dining table, which will cast a soft, warm hue over your dining space. For living rooms, table and floor lamps are a great way to create cosy corners.'

Your chosen material is similarly key to the overall atmosphere of your space.

'The specific textures used depend on the overall design style of the room, but when using metallic colors, getting the balance is key,' they say.

'If used correctly, they can really enhance and lift the overall aesthetic of a room. We often design lighting that combines aged brass accents with neutral grounding textures like rattan and linen.'

Ryan is right: nobody loves the big light. Luckily, a few smart fixtures and some soft, ambient glow can turn any room into a Hollywood-approved retreat.

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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.'

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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.

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.

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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.

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.'

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.'

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.'

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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.'

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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.

 Since the announcement of the Greta Gerwig-directed Barbie film starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, ‘Barbiecore’ interiors have been trending across social media. Kitten Kay Sera was way ahead of the curve with her all-pink home.

Affectionately referred to as ‘the pink lady of Hollywood,’ Kitten Kay Sera has turned heads for the past 30 years with her all-pink fashion and interior design. Most recently, she and her girl-band Pinktastic Plastixx released a single with an impressively pink music video. A quick scroll through the iconic personality’s Instagram will leave no questions about her favorite color. A self-proclaimed ‘pinkacholic,’ Kitten has hot pink hair, a hot pink dog, and ‘the pinkest house in the world’ according to HGTV.

'Barbiecore’ is the most fabulous design movement of the summer. Its central tenets are fun and whimsy – basically, anything you could find in the Barbie universe goes. The hottest color trend inspired by the Barbiecore look? Pink.

But Kay Sera’s house gives the Barbie Dream House a run for its money. Interior photos of Kitten’s house reveal the holy grail of hot pink home decor. All of the walls, all of the floors, and all of the fixtures are finished with the influencer’s favorite vibrant hue. 

Her bedroom is a pink lover’s dream, with a bright rounded pink leather bed covered in a cozy pink faux fur blanket, a pink vanity and a nostalgic hot pink rotary phone. The kitchen of the Los Angeles home is complete with pink countertops, and a pink stove and a pink dishwasher. My favorite is the bathroom, featuring chiffon curtains alongside a pink bathtub, pink toilet, and fuzzy bath rug. Kitten Kay Sera doesn’t miss a detail, and even the toilet paper in her Barbiecore bathroom is hot pink.

If you want to recreate the look in a more manageable way, remember Barbiecore does not need to be dramatic to make an impression. By using light pink paint and artfully placed pink details, you can decorate with pink in an unassuming fashion.