Your front garden tells a story before anyone knocks.
Overgrown hedges, cracked paving, bins visible from the street. They all say something. But usually not what you want.
Kerb appeal matters. Not just for resale value, though estate agents will tell you it makes a difference there too. It matters because you see your front garden every single day. Coming home should feel good. Walking up to a tired, neglected entrance does not.
The good news? Most kerb appeal improvements are simpler than you think. You do not need to redesign everything. Small changes create big visual shifts.
Why kerb appeal actually matters
First impressions form fast. Visitors make judgments in seconds.
A well-maintained front garden signals that the rest of the property receives the same care. A neglected one raises questions. What else has been overlooked?
According to research by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, improving your front garden can add between 5% and 10% to property value. On a £300,000 home, that is £15,000 to £30,000. Not a bad return for some paving and planting.
But resale is not the whole story. You live with your front garden daily. It affects how you feel pulling into the driveway or walking up the path. A space that looks cared for lifts your mood. One that reminds you of tasks undone does the opposite.
Front gardens also affect your street. Neighbours notice. Not in a judgemental way necessarily, but well-kept properties encourage others to maintain standards. One tired front garden drags down the whole row.
Start with a proper clear out
Before adding anything, remove what does not work.
Dead plants in pots that have sat there for three winters. Weeds pushing through gravel. That broken planter you meant to fix two years ago. All of it creates visual clutter that undermines everything else.
Bin storage is often the biggest eyesore. Most councils now provide multiple bins. Leaving them permanently visible by the front door looks terrible. If you cannot build dedicated storage, at least position bins where they are less prominent. Behind a wall. Tucked to the side. Anywhere that is not the focal point of your entrance.
Sweep hard surfaces. Power wash if necessary. Algae and moss make paving look old and neglected even when the surface is structurally fine. A few hours with a pressure washer transforms appearance dramatically.
Cut back overgrown plants. Shrubs that have outgrown their space and hedge that blocks windows both need trimming. You can always replant later if gaps appear, but getting rid of overgrowth creates an instant improvement.
Fix the obvious maintenance issues
Small repairs make a surprising difference.
Cracked paving trips people and looks bad. Replacing a few broken slabs costs little but changes the overall impression significantly. Loose edging that has shifted over time makes paths look untidy; securing it takes an hour but reads as proper maintenance.
Peeling paint on front doors, gate posts, or window frames catches the eye. Repainting is a weekend job that refreshes the whole entrance. Choose colours that suit your property type. Period homes often suit traditional colours. Modern builds can take bolder choices.
Rusty gates need treating or replacing. A gate that drags on the ground and has to be lifted to close frustrates daily and looks neglected. New hinges or a replacement gate both solve this.
Clean windows and fascias. You stop noticing dirt build-up when you see it every day, but visitors clock it immediately. A quick clean makes everything look fresher.
Rethink your front path
The route from pavement to front door sets the tone.
Straight paths suit formal properties. Curved paths work better with informal planting styles. Either way, the path needs to be wide enough for comfortable walking. Narrow paths hemmed in by overgrown plants force visitors to walk single file and brush against wet foliage.
Path materials should suit your house. Victorian terraces often had geometric tile paths. Restoring or recreating this detail adds character. Modern homes can take sleeker materials like porcelain or resin-bound surfaces.
Edging defines paths clearly. Without it, gravel migrates and plants encroach. Proper edging keeps everything in place and looks intentional rather than haphazard.
Lighting along paths helps after dark and creates atmosphere. Solar lights are the easy option but quality varies wildly. Mains-powered LED fixtures give better light and reliability. Low-level fittings illuminate the path without glaring in eyes.
But they need to earn their place. High-maintenance planting in front gardens rarely gets the attention it needs. Choose plants that look good with minimal fuss.
Evergreens provide year-round structure. Box balls, lavender, and small shrubs like pittosporum hold their shape and stay green through winter. They create permanent features that anchor your planting scheme.
Perennials add seasonal colour without the replanting annuals demand. Salvias, geraniums, and ornamental grasses all perform well in front gardens and tolerate some neglect.
Containers by the front door create focal points. Seasonal planting in pots lets you change displays without redesigning beds. Buy ready-planted pots if you do not enjoy gardening. The cost is modest and they look good immediately.
Climbers on walls add vertical interest. Jasmine smells beautiful. Roses add colour. Ivy covers ugly walls fast. Just make sure whatever you plant suits the available light and will not damage the building.
For more comprehensive changes, professional front garden transformation addresses layout, drainage, and material choices alongside planting.
Deal with parking without killing the garden
Many front gardens must accommodate cars. The challenge is doing so without creating a concrete desert.
Permeable surfaces are increasingly required by planning rules. If you pave more than five square metres with impermeable materials, you need permission unless water drains to a permeable area. This is not just bureaucracy; it reduces flooding risk and water pollution.
Permeable options include resin-bound surfacing, permeable block paving, and gravel with proper sub-base. All allow water through while providing solid parking.
Gravel is the cheapest option but needs stabilising grids to prevent ruts forming. Loose gravel migrates onto paths and lawns, creating mess.
Grass pavers let you park on grass without turning it to mud. Plastic or concrete grids support vehicle weight while grass grows through the openings. This only works in areas that get enough light for grass to thrive.
Keep some planting even if parking dominates. Beds along boundaries or a strip beside the house soften the impact of hard surfacing. Even narrow beds support hedging or structural shrubs that break up expanses of paving.
Create a boundary that suits your property
Front garden boundaries affect kerb appeal significantly.
Low walls suit period properties. If you have original walls, repair rather than replace them. New walls should match the house in material and style. Random modern materials on Victorian houses look wrong.
Hedges provide living boundaries that soften hard landscaping. Box, privet, and beech all clip into neat hedges. Keep front hedges below 1.2 metres so they do not block sightlines for cars pulling out.
Railings complement Victorian and Edwardian homes. Original railings were often removed during wars; reproduction designs can restore period character without enormous cost.
Fencing is quick and affordable but can look defensive. Close-board fencing particularly risks making front gardens feel closed off. If you need screening, slatted panels or painted picket fences feel more welcoming than solid barriers.
The boundary between driveway and planted areas needs clear definition. Metal or timber edging keeps gravel in place. Brick or stone edging suits period properties. Without it, materials mix and the whole garden looks messy.
Add details that finish the look
Small touches complete the transformation.
House numbers that can actually be read help visitors and delivery drivers. Numbers mounted on walls or gate posts need to be large enough and lit well enough to see from the street.
Doorbells that work and door furniture that matches create a polished entrance. Mismatched letter boxes, door handles, and knockers look haphazard. Replacing them with a coordinated set costs little but elevates the overall impression.
Pot plants either side of the front door frame the entrance. Symmetrical planting suits formal properties. Matching pots create rhythm even when planting is informal.
Welcome mats or doormats stop mud tracking into the house and add a homely touch. Choose materials that drain and dry quickly so they do not stay sodden in wet weather.
Outdoor lighting transforms front gardens after dark. Uplighting architectural features, lighting paths, and illuminating house numbers all add atmosphere and security.
Maintenance that keeps improvements looking good
Transforming your front garden is one thing. Keeping it looking good is another.
Choose materials and plants that suit your maintenance appetite. If you hate gardening, extensive planting beds will frustrate. If you do not mind occasional weeding but hate mowing, artificial grass might make sense.
Set a realistic maintenance schedule. Front gardens need less attention than back gardens but cannot be ignored entirely. An hour every few weeks keeps things under control. Leave it for months and you are back to overgrown and neglected.
Seasonal tasks matter. Spring needs tidying after winter and refreshing containers. Summer requires watering if you have pots. Autumn means sweeping leaves before they turn slimy. Winter is for checking drainage and planning changes.
Weed control makes the biggest visual difference for the least effort. Keeping hard surfaces weed-free and beds tidy prevents the neglected look creeping back. Regular light weeding beats occasional marathon sessions.
Quick wins for instant improvement
Some changes deliver immediate results.
Painting your front door takes a day and costs under £50. The impact is enormous. A fresh, bold colour draws the eye and lifts the whole entrance.
Pressure washing paving, walls, and the house front removes years of grime in hours. The difference between dirty and clean surfacing is night and day.
New house numbers mounted prominently make finding your property easier and signal attention to detail.
Replacing dead or dying plants in prominent positions removes eyesores. Even if you leave beds bare for replanting later, removing obviously dead plants improves appearance.
Trimming hedges and cutting back overhanging plants opens up the garden and makes it feel cared for. You can be strategic about replanting, but overgrowth needs addressing immediately.
Cleaning windows, especially front-facing ones, brightens the house front. Sparkling glass makes everything look fresher.
When to call in professionals
Credit: Shutterstock
Some front garden improvements suit DIY. Others benefit from professional help.
Structural changes like new driveways, rebuilding walls, or installing drainage all need proper expertise. Mistakes with foundations or drainage create expensive problems. According to guidance from the National House Building Council, proper groundwork prevents subsidence and drainage issues that undermine landscaping investments.
Design services help when you know the current setup is not working but cannot visualise solutions. Professionals see possibilities you might miss and avoid costly mistakes.
Large-scale planting works better with expert input. Understanding soil conditions, aspect, and plant compatibility prevents buying things that will not thrive.
Materials selection benefits from experience. The range of paving, edging, and surfacing options is vast. Professionals understand durability, maintenance requirements, and suitability for different uses.
Anything involving electrics for outdoor lighting needs qualified work. DIY electrical work outside rarely meets building regulations and creates safety risks.
Budget-friendly approaches
Kerb appeal improvements do not require huge budgets.
Prioritise high-impact, low-cost changes first. Cleaning, trimming, painting, and minor repairs cost little but transform appearance.
Phase larger projects over time. Replace paving one section at a time. Replant beds gradually rather than all at once. Spreading costs makes improvements affordable while maintaining momentum.
Choose materials wisely. Premium natural stone looks beautiful but costs significantly more than good-quality concrete or porcelain. For front gardens where durability and appearance matter more than authenticity, modern alternatives often make sense.
Do some work yourself where skills allow. Painting, planting, and simple maintenance all suit DIY. Save professional budgets for structural work, design, and anything requiring specific expertise.
Shop around for materials. Prices vary widely between suppliers for identical products. Bulk buying can deliver savings if you are doing multiple areas.
Your front garden deserves attention. It is the first thing you see coming home and the first impression visitors form. Small improvements compound. Even simple changes create welcome that lasts.
Slow living isn’t easy – not today, when everything needs to move at the speed of light. Even our forms of entertainment are quicker, snappier and harder to follow than ever, thanks to shortening media formats and ever-shortening attention spans. Earning money is stressful, making that money stretch in a difficult economy is even more stressful, and there never seems to be any time to catch a breath.
Luckily, you don’t need to take a sabbatical to re-introduce some calm into your life. While you might not be able to meaningfully practice slow living every day of the week, you can, at the very least, imbue your home with the sense of it, using interior design. And how better to imbue such slow-living sense than with the concept of travel?
1. Curating Meaningful Decor
Using travel as a shibboleth through which to translate slow living into home décor might sound like one step too many – but it’s an excellent opportunity to naturally fold calming influences into your environment. This is particularly the case when it comes to trips you’ve already taken; such trips tend to yield souvenirs of great personal import.
Items collected on trips, whether a hand-woven basket from a market or photographs from a quiet continental village getaway, can serve as emotionally-resonant pieces that uplift your surroundings, rather than clutter them.
2. Adopt Slow Interiors Principles Inspired by Places You’ve Visited
You don’t necessarily require physical objects from your travels to adopt slow living design in your home, though. Sometimes, you can take the sensibility of a place you’ve been to as inspiration. On your travels, whether cheap holidays somewhere warm or cultural excursions to places of great artistic import, you’ll have encountered buildings and interiors which reflected considered, thoughtful design choices. You’ll also have aligned yourself mentally with certain locations, pieces of which you can figuratively steal for your home.
3. Use Travel Colours and Materials to Shape Calm Environments
In another relatively straightforward sense, you can quasi-literally steal influence from places you’ve visited by reflecting them in your colour and material choices. The terracotta tiling of a coastal patio in Italy could inform the rustic nature of a new kitchen or bathroom design; the colour of the Mediterranean off the southern coast of Sicily could be the exact colour of bedroom en-suite you plump for. The only limit is your imagination.
4. Create Rooms That Feel Like Retreats, Not Showpieces
One of the most striking things about memorable places is how they feel, not how perfectly styled they are. Think of a small guesthouse where everything was a little worn but deeply comfortable, or a rented apartment abroad where mornings felt unhurried simply because the space allowed them to be. You can translate that feeling at home by prioritising comfort, softness and usability over visual perfection.
This might mean choosing seating you genuinely want to sink into, layering textiles rather than matching them, or allowing a room to remain intentionally quiet rather than filling it with decorative noise. Slow living interiors aren’t designed to impress at first glance; they’re designed to support daily rituals, rest and presence.
5. Let Imperfection Tell a Story
Travel has a way of loosening our attachment to perfection. Cracked plaster walls, uneven tiles and sun-faded fabrics often become part of a place’s charm rather than a flaw. Bringing that same acceptance into your home can be incredibly grounding.
Natural patina, handmade finishes and materials that age gracefully all reinforce a slower pace of life. Limewashed walls, raw timber, vintage furniture and ceramics with visible marks of the maker encourage you to live with your home rather than constantly fixing or upgrading it. These imperfections add depth and remind you that a lived-in space is a healthy one.
6. Build Daily Rituals into Your Layout
Slow living is as much about behaviour as it is about aesthetics, and travel often shifts our routines in subtle but powerful ways. Maybe you lingered over breakfast on a balcony, read more in the evenings, or walked instead of scrolling. Your home can support those habits if it’s designed with intention.
Consider where you naturally pause during the day, and design for those moments. A chair by a window, a low table for tea, open shelving that encourages cooking rather than hiding everything away. These small choices create gentle friction against rush and distraction, making it easier to move through the day with awareness.
7. Avoid Turning Travel into a Theme
There’s a fine line between travel-inspired interiors and rooms that feel like a checklist of destinations. Slow living thrives on subtlety, so it’s worth resisting the urge to overtly reference places through themed décor or obvious motifs.
Instead, allow travel influence to show up quietly — in textures, proportions, light and mood. A home shaped by travel should feel cohesive and personal, not like a museum of past trips. The goal isn’t to recreate somewhere else, but to bring back the pace and presence those places allowed you to feel.
8. Design with Intention: Slowing Down Your Decorating Process
Ultimately, your new renovations should themselves embody that sense of mindful travel. There’s value to taking time in curating your space, rather than rushing through your new interior designs in one push. Resist impulse buys, resist speed, and lean into the process; you may even like it.
Estate sales, yard sales, and antique shops were regular weekend destinations for my brother and me as kids. My parents, always on the hunt for period-appropriate decor for our Staten Island 19th-century house, made sure of it. Since then, I’ve had a love for home design and…read more
For more than 10 years, I’ve led Apartment Therapy’s real home content, producing thousands of house tours from around the world. Currently, I live in my maximalist dream home in New Orleans, Louisiana, with my partner, a perfect dog, and a cute cat.
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
Ever since I moved out of state, I’ve made a habit of sending my mom flowers on Valentine’s Day. Say what you want about Valentine’s Day flowers being passé, but there’s something undeniably special about finding a beautiful bouquet on your doorstep. The thorn of it all is that the vases they come in aren’t always the cutest, and, even worse, the flowers wilt after only a couple of days. Sure, it’s the thought that counts, but flower deliveries aren’t cheap — and frankly, my mom deserves better. That’s why I’m trying something new this year and gifting her this preserved bouquet from Lasting Brilliance.
Not only is the arrangement gorgeous, but the brand also claims it’ll last up to three years without any maintenance. Needless to say, my interest was piqued, so I received a bouquet for myself to investigate further. Read on for my thoughts!
What Is the Lasting Brilliance Opal Signature Bouquet?
While Lasting Brilliance is known for its famous Forever Roses, the Opal Signature Bouquet needs to be on your radar. It includes a stunning mix of preserved hydrangeas, pink roses, and plumosus fern, along with dried flowers and grasses — all in cream and blush tones. Like the Forever Roses, the Opal Bouquet can last up to three years, with no water or sunlight required. In fact, the brand recommends keeping them away from the sun, as prolonged exposure may fade the color over time.
Another thing that makes the Opal bouquet special is the elegant vase. Your giftee won’t be tempted to re-home the flowers upon receipt, because the opulent fluted vase has a gilded finish that practically makes it a piece of decor.
Why I Love the Lasting Brilliance Opal Signature Bouquet
As someone who has gifted and received flower deliveries over the years, I was impressed by how well the Lasting Brilliance bouquet was packaged. You obviously don’t have to worry about any water spillage in a preserved arrangement like this, which is a huge pro. The vase was also securely packaged between styrofoam blocks to keep it from tumbling around. There were a few fallen petals, which is par for the course with any mail-order bouquet, but there were far less than others I’ve ordered. And because the flowers are so carefully preserved, they weren’t already half-dead upon receipt — which I can’t say about other services I’ve tried.
The Opal bouquet’s gold-finished vase is a stylish upgrade from the overly commercial, bare-bones vases I’m used to seeing. Its metallic finish and fluted shape bring a bit of vintage glamour and elegance to my tabletop. The vase complements the arrangement’s soft blush and cream tones just perfectly, without calling too much attention, which is perfect if you’re giving the bouquet to someone as a gift (as I plan to do).
I obviously can’t speak to the brand’s three-year lifespan promise, but what I can tell you is that the flowers look as beautiful now as they did the day I got them. Plus, the bouquet’s light color palette makes me feel even better about having them in my home and giving them as a gift — because I won’t have to worry about the color fading with time! The arrangement looks soft and sophisticated, and is the perfect way to make someone feel special this Valentine’s Day while also bringing a touch of vintage charm to their decor.
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
Designers think that the motivation behind this shift is strongly tied to the emotional and nostalgic connotations of vintage style. “There is a yearning for things that have emotion behind them and a story behind them, and sort of that little bit of whimsy and discovery that you find with vintage pieces,” says designer Stacy Garcia, CEO & Chief Inspiration Officer at Stacy Garcia Design Studio in New York.
But beyond just the feeling of nostalgia, what makes a vintage piece truly stylish today? If it was solely about nostalgia, wouldn’t we all be installing plush green carpet and linoleum floors again, too? So I spoke with some interior designers to find out which vintage pieces specifically are poised for a style renaissance in 2026. Read on for your de facto designer-curated thrift store shopping list!
Many of us seem to be leaning into cozy “grandma hobbies” today — like knitting, needlepoint, and sewing — so it makes sense that quilts would make a comeback, too. “The bold geometry of patchwork quilts feels modern again. Especially if you pair them with other solid bright colors and let them really be the star of the show,” says Jessica Ahnert Davis, owner and creative director of Atelier Davis.
In a world of fast furniture and disposable decor, these pieces feel even more meaningful and comforting, Garcia adds. “There’s a renewed appreciation for quilts and handmade textiles because they bring warmth, texture, and a human touch into the home,” she says. A quintessential grandma creation, quilts are finally having their moment and being recognized for the craftsmanship that makes them truly special.
Tufting, Fringe, and Skirting
And while we’re returning to an appreciation for craftsmanship, traditional furniture details are seeing a resurgence, too. Things like tufted cushions, fringe trim, and skirted sofas or chairs are suddenly everywhere again. “These elements feel nostalgic yet fresh when mixed with modern pieces, creating spaces that feel curated rather than overly styled,” Garcia explains.
The Apartment Therapy 2026 State of Home Design report found that vintage textiles will be one of the most sought-after items in secondhand shops this year, so it makes sense that you’re seeing embroidery everywhere right now. Whether displayed as art or used as upholstery, embroidered pieces are on everyone’s list right now. Ksenya Malina of New York interior design studio Time & Place Interiors agrees, saying she’s seeing a rise in embroidered towels and linens as well.
In the same vein, Malina also predicts we’ll see a resurgence of upholstered or embroidered footstools and ottomans, as decorators strive to inject functional antique accents into modern homes. Not only are ottomans a great spot to rest your feet at the end of a long day, she says, but they’re also useful to hold a tray of drinks or appetizers when you entertain.
Candy Dishes and Cookie Tins
People are finding so many ways to repurpose vintage candy dishes and cookie tins — from jewelry holders, to knickknack bowls, to ornate centerpieces. “When displayed together as a collection, candy dishes can look so fun and sculptural,” Davis says. “Especially with light streaming in from a window behind.” Or, try clustering a few old-school cookie tins together to hide coffee-table clutter.
China Cabinets and Glass-Front Hutches
China cabinets are yet another example of an attempt to add personality, history, and a sense of storytelling back into our spaces, according to Garcia. “China cabinets are coming back because people want to actually see and enjoy the things they’ve collected over time, rather than hide them away,” Garcia says.
Displaying collections like that, whether china or something else, can also be a gateway to connect with your history and loved ones. Glass hutches increase visibility and encourage use of items that might otherwise be hidden away in a drawer. “Putting a tea set out and actually sitting and using it … making yourself a glass of tea and having a friend over — there’s something so nice about that,” Garcia says.
We might not be laying out a formal dinner table each night anymore, but that doesn’t mean you can’t (or shouldn’t) pull a few great pieces of silverware out from grandma’s set every now and then, Malina says. “A couple of beautiful vintage serving spoons elevates even a casual table setting (takeout included). And mix-and-match silverware pieces give an eclectic, French look to your meal,” she explains. This is an easy way to add some whimsy and old-world glam to the everyday.
We’re definitely seeing a shift toward warmer ambient lighting in homes right now, and candles are a huge part of that. Vintage candlesticks can seriously elevate the look.
Malina suggests adding an antique candlestick or two to your favorite shelf. If you’re feeling really funky, you can even create a grouping of mismatched candleholders of differing heights on your sideboard for a pretty vignette. “To give it an authentic look, light the candle briefly and then blow it out, so that the wick turns black,” Malina says.
Olivia Harvey is a freelance writer and award-winning scriptwriter from outside Boston, Massachusetts. She’s a big fan of scented candles, getting dressed up, and the 2005 film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice starring Keira Knightley. You can make sure she’s doing okay via…read more
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
I’ve been on both sides of the ironing vs. steaming debate, and I believe that both methods have their flaws. In my experience, irons give clothes a crisp finish in less time, but the tangle-prone cables make them more of a pain to use. Steamers are gentler on delicate fabrics, but take more time to smooth out wrinkles. I actually gave up on both for a while because I was convinced neither one was a fit for my routine. That is, until I tried the Panasonic Cordless Lightweight Steam/Dry Iron.
The Steam/Dry Iron turned out to be the all-in-one solution I’d been missing — and it’s surprisingly well-suited to small-space living. And after using it for the past month and change, I can confidently say it’s made me a regular ironer/steamer again. Here’s why.
What Is the Panasonic Cordless Lightweight Steam/Dry Iron?
Weighing only 26.5 ounces, it’s the lightest steam iron Panasonic has ever made. It’s also cordless, comes with a handy carrying case, and heats up in 50 seconds on the accompanying power base (that plugs into a standard electrical outlet). The power base features a built-in cord compartment to make setup and storage easy. So already it solves some of my biggest gripes with traditional irons. It offers smooth, 360-degree movement without tethering you to a restrictive cord, and the iron’s portability also makes it uniquely suited to use beyond the house. Take it with you to quilting and craft classes, check it in your luggage while traveling — it goes where most irons and steamers can’t.
In terms of ironing and steaming ability, the Panasonic Steam/Dry Iron gives you the best of both. Its nonstick, U-shaped soleplate gives you the smooth glide of an iron, complete with a precision tip to tackle corners, collars, and seams, while its vertical steam and powershot functions offer the wrinkle-releasing powers of a steamer — all without staining or damaging fabrics.
Why I Love the Panasonic Cordless Lightweight Steam/Dry Iron
As someone who owns a traditional corded iron and a steamer, I can honestly say that Panasonic’s steam iron replaces both. For starters, it’s way easier to use: I plug in the power base, choose my heat setting, and the iron is ready to go in seconds. I use it on one of these tabletop ironing boards (small apartment problems), and because the iron itself isn’t restricted by a cord, I can glide it freely up and down pieces of clothing without fussing. One thing I noticed, though, is that the iron has a slightly rounded bottom that keeps it from standing upright on its own, so I need to set it on its power base between pieces. It took some getting used to, but it’s worth doing for the iron’s long-lasting heat.
Most important, though, is how effectively the Panasonic steam iron smooths out creases and wrinkles — even on my mostly air-dried clothing. Its U-shaped plate lives up to its nonstick claims, gliding over fabrics without snagging or leaving scuffs or water stains. And while I’m admittedly not as careful as I should be with my clothes, the iron’s three heat settings make it hard to mess up. The iron’s power shot function is a huge help for stubborn creases on more rigid fabrics, and when it comes to pieces too delicate to press, the iron’s vertical steam bursts do the trick.
While my old iron and steamer used to sit in a tangled heap on my closet shelf, the steam iron’s compact carrying case tucks away neatly for a clean, clutter-free look. I don’t have to worry about any residual water spilling out either, because the iron sits securely on its base. So if you’re looking for a wrinkle-smoothing solution that’s effective and space-efficient, I’d say the Panasonic Cordless Lightweight Steam/Dry Iron is worth looking into!
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
I’ve spent an embarrassing amount of time trying to perfect my work-from-home setup. I’ve tweaked the height of my chair and desk, and even tried several different laptop stands that promised everything and delivered little more than vibes. What I didn’t expect was that the thing that would finally bring me comfort and help with my back pain would be a $25 ergonomic footrest — an object I had previously filed under “unnecessary office accessories.” And yet, here I am.
Before the footrest, my posture situation was bleak. I’d start the day sitting like a functional adult, only to slowly devolve into a forward-slouching, feet-tucked-under-legs pretzel. By mid-afternoon, my lower back had that dull, nagging ache that made it hard to focus. I thought that was just the price of sitting at a desk. Turns out, my feet were the problem. But without even trying, I had found a solution.
What Is the BlissTrends Foot Rest?
The BlissTrends Foot Rest has become my favorite desk upgrade. It’s small, affordable, and doesn’t require rearranging your space or buying a whole new chair. This height-adjustable foam footrest takes up basically no visual space, works barefoot or with shoes, and slides under your desk when you’re done. Plus, it comes with a cover that can be easily removed and thrown into the washing machine. It’s the definition of low commitment, high reward.
Why Your Feet Matter More Than You Think
“Most desk posture issues start with where your feet are,” says Dr. Mikel Daniels, a Baltimore-based podiatrist and founder of WeTreatFeet Podiatry. When your feet hang, don’t quite reach the floor, or you’re constantly pulling them back under your chair, the rest of your body has to make up for it. That compensation travels upward fast with “malposition of the pelvis, lumbar spine, and even your neck.” Your pelvis tucks under, your back loses its natural curve, and suddenly sitting feels way harder than it should. It can lead to “rounded shoulders, tight hip flexors, aching low backs, and swollen feet by 4 p.m.”
An ergonomic footrest helps eliminate “desk posture” by doing something extremely basic but surprisingly effective: It brings the floor up to you. This “lets you set your chair at the right height for your desk and screen while still giving your feet a solid, supportive base,” Daniels explains. “It’s a simple way to hit that ‘neutral alignment’ sweet spot without needing a custom chair and desk setup.” Translation: Your body can finally stop improvising.
What Happened When I Used This Footrest
The first day I used the footrest, I noticed I wasn’t thinking about my posture at all. My feet felt grounded. My hips stayed put. I wasn’t inching forward in my chair or curling myself into a question mark. This is because, according to Dr. Devin Trachman, the clinic director at Physical Therapy Central, “A footrest gives the body a stable base to allow the pelvis and spine to be more neutral and supported.” From her physical therapy standpoint, “this stability is foundational for reducing unnecessary stress and strain during times of prolonged sitting.”
That neutral alignment was the missing piece for me. With my feet supported, I actually used the back of my chair. My back wasn’t working overtime just to keep me upright. And by the end of the workday? No familiar ache. No stretching on the floor like I’d just finished a marathon.
There are circulation benefits, too. Supporting your feet reduces pressure on the backs of your thighs, which can improve blood flow and reduce swelling in the lower legs and feet — something many people who sit all day experience without realizing it. Trachman adds, “Clinically, I often see improvements in low back pain, hip tightness, and even neck tension when mechanics of sitting are corrected from the ground up.” This explains why, since incorporating a footrest into my workspace, I’ve noticed less stiffness by the end of the day.
What “Good Posture” Actually Looks Like
The good news is that good posture doesn’t mean sitting perfectly upright all day. Some key cues that Trachman likes giving her patients are as follows:
Daniels likes to remind his patients of the following message: “Perfect posture does not exist. However, sustainable posture does.” His baseline advice is keeping a footrest height so your knees are at about a 90- to 100-degree angle, letting your feet feel “heavy but relaxed” on the surface, and sitting all the way back in your chair to support your lumbar spine.
Even then, movement matters. Trachman recommends changing positions or standing every 30 to 60 minutes. A footrest isn’t meant to lock you into place — it just makes good posture the path of least resistance.
Why a Footrest Is a Simple yet Effective Upgrade for Workspaces
Is a footrest exciting? Not even a little bit. Did it make my workday noticeably more comfortable? Completely. Although it doesn’t feel dramatic, the payoff is. My desk setup finally feels like a true ergonomic workspace, my workdays end without that familiar back ache, and I didn’t have to replace a single piece of furniture or buy any fancy gadgets.
It’s not a magic solution. But for under $30, it’s one of those simple but effective upgrades that makes you wonder why you didn’t try it sooner — especially if you work from home, live in a small space, or sit more than you probably should. Trust me — your back will thank you.
Cozy interior design is created by selecting the best pieces, furniture that makes you stop and rest so you can feel peaceful and secure in your space. Instead of all the things that make up your interior, only some can be functional, interesting, and unshakable, such as a wingback chair.
More than just a decorative chair, a wingback chair is actually a personal space in your home and an important element of interior design. It brings cozy feelings, delivers physical comfort, and has a low key yet impactful design element on the space. A wingback chair, be it in the living room, reading corner or beside a fire box, has a little bit of secret magic. A carefully selected model of wingback originated successes in space changing both the feel and the use.
Through this text, we are going to see why the wingback chair is a timeless piece of furniture that can be applied in various layout schemes, and how it can be the heart of a warm and cozy space.
About Wingback Chairs
Wingback chairs hold a unique position in home furnishings. They feel familiar yet refined, traditional yet surprisingly adaptable. Their distinctive silhouette has survived centuries of changing tastes, not because of nostalgia alone, but because the design genuinely works — both visually and physically.
Originally created for warmth and protection, wingback chairs have evolved into one of the most expressive forms of seating in interior decor. Today, they are as likely to appear in modern living rooms as in traditional studies, proving that good design rarely expires.
Historical Significance
The wingback chair was born in Queen Anne and Georgian designs, which were the first to give equal importance to comfort and proportion as compared to mere beauty. The initial wingback chairs were introduced with the style of a high back and closed sides that are also referred to as the wings to protect the sitter from the cold drafts during the sitting period near an unlocked fireplace.
In Georgian interiors, these chairs were associated with:
private reading and conversation,
long evenings by the hearth,
refined yet practical living.
Their structure reflected a deeper understanding of human posture and warmth, making them one of the first truly ergonomic seating solutions in domestic furniture. Over time, the wingback chair became a symbol of thoughtful living — furniture designed for use, not display.
Modern Adaptations
While the essence of the wingback chair remains unchanged, modern design has expanded its language. Today’s wingback chair styles embrace a wide range of upholstery and finishes, allowing them to blend seamlessly into contemporary homes.
Common modern adaptations include:
smooth leather for a timeless, masculine or heritage feel,
soft fabric or velvet for warmth and tactile comfort,
patterned or patchwork upholstery as a bold interior statement,
vintage distressed leather for lived-in character and depth.
These variations allow the wingback chair to function as either a quiet anchor or a focal point, depending on the interior styling. Whether your home leans towards modern design or traditional style, there is a wingback chair that fits naturally into the story.
Wingback chairs: comfort and ergonomics
The wingback chair is stunning not only in its style but also in ergonomics. In fact, its design is the manifestation of an exceptional thought process of engineering that resembles the body and is like a physical barrier from the outside world which many modern chairs do not have.
The high importance of the back and wings
The high wings offer privacy to the one sitting and also one gets full support of the back and neck by the tall back. This addition benefits in the elimination of visual and sensory distractions, thus making wingback a perfect choice for times of peace and focus.
Chilling out and novels with the wingbacks is a super thought
The closed wrapping design essentially stresses a relaxed and slow posture. Reading, listening to music or just being idle, a wingback chair is like a stop button in the house.
Relevant ergonomic features
equal depth of seat for longevity of comfort
proper arm height for shoulder and arm support
small lumbar support that promotes a normal posture.
Together, these elements explain why wingback chairs are often chosen for reading nooks and cozy corners rather than high-traffic seating areas.
Top Wingback Chair Selections
A properly constructed wingback chair is a purchase that guarantees you daily comfort forever. Here are some of the excellent styles exhibiting that the classic forms can be transformed into different types of interiors while preserving their core features.
Chesterfield Queen Anne Wing Chair (Antique Oxblood)
This chair is a perfect example of a traditional British design that keeps its bravery in the forefront. Covered with the splendid antique oxblood leather, it gives a sense of the space being deep, warm, and heavy with visual axe:
ideal for studies, libraries, or formal living rooms,
pairs beautifully with dark wood furniture,
ages gracefully, gaining character over time.
A tribute to what seems to be the unchangeable style, this object belongs to the good old days, thus proving your taste and sense of the environment. It is also an excellent choice for those who adore the old-school furniture.
Chesterfield Mallory Flat Wing High Back Wing Chair (Cream Leather)
This particular model is a perfect fit for the brighter interiors and modern living rooms with a light but similar refined touch .
The flat wings generate a much simpler and cleaner look.
The cream leather catches the light thus reflecting the space while it is the softest choice.
It is a good representative of the Scandinavian or transitional types of decoration.
This chair embodies the notion that traditional styles can be reborn without the loss of their original form.
You can see this chair model in another colour in more detail in the video below:
For the homes that love texture and a story to tell, distressed leather adds a layer of depth that no other material can offer.
Cigar warm hues radiate wealth without the feeling of heaviness,
the natural flaws make it more true to life,
perfectly fit for easygoing, lived-in spaces.
This typology is particularly effective in the areas created for relaxation-scag, reading nooks, fire places corners, or lounges.
Wing Back Chair Tartan Beige with Footstool
Patterned upholstery introduces warmth and personality, while a matching footstool enhances comfort.
tartan fabric adds a classic, homely feel,
footstool encourages better posture and relaxation,
perfect for extended sitting sessions.
This combination creates a complete seating experience rather than a standalone chair.
Pattern and Patchwork Wingback Chairs
The wingback chair becomes a true spotlight by using patchwork and patterned designs.
This piece is most suitable for eclectic or creative interiors,
adds hues without dominating the space,
can be simply used as an individual accent chair.
When used properly, these chairs serve the dual purpose of being a conversation starter and providing real comfort.
Styling Tips for a Cozy Home
A wingback chair reaches its full potential when styled intentionally. Its presence can shape how a room is used and how it feels on a daily basis.
Incorporating Textures and Fabrics
Texture plays a central role in cozy home decor. Wingback chairs offer an opportunity to introduce tactile richness.
Leather adds structure and longevity,
Fabric and velvet bring softness and warmth,
Patterned upholstery creates visual interest.
Mixing textures thoughtfully enhances the sense of depth and comfort within the room.
Accommodating and Positioning
The position influences whether a wingback chair is perceived as merely a decorative or functional chair.
Here are some usual ways to place it:
a specially earmarked reading corner with a floor lamp,
next to a fireplace as a source of heat and symmetry,
as a part of the seating set in a living room for a discussion.
Be sure to leave ample space around the chair to maintain its vividness without overcrowding it.
Decor Elements with Complementarity
The addition of a few small elements is enough to bring the experience of a chair to a higher level.
A full set might include:
a colorful throw or a cushion
a side table for books or tea
a floor lamp for focused lighting
a matching footstool for extended comfort
These elements not only turn the chair into a full comfort zone but also serve as a visual accent.
Choosing the Right Wingback Chair for Your Space
Selecting the right wingback chair involves balancing proportion, material, and lifestyle needs.
At this stage, it can be helpful to look at real examples rather than rely on theory alone. Seeing how different wingback chairs vary in shape, upholstery, and scale often makes these decisions clearer, especially when considering how a chair will sit within a specific room.
Consideration
Recommendation
Small rooms
Slim wings, lighter colours
Large rooms
Deeper seats, darker tones
Family homes
Durable leather or performance fabric
Colour choice
Dark for grounding, light for openness
Footstool
Ideal for relaxation and posture
Think of the chair not as an isolated purchase, but as part of a broader home transformation focused on comfort and usability.
In Closing
A wingback chair is never simply another item of furniture. It is a considered decision — a reflection of the wish to live more comfortably, more slowly, and with greater intention. In an age of constantly shifting interiors and short-lived trends, the wingback chair remains quietly enduring. It offers a place to pause, to sit without urgency, and to feel at home rather than merely surrounded by decor.
Whether rooted in traditional craftsmanship or interpreted through modern design, subtle or expressive in character, a wingback chair naturally forms the emotional centre of a room. It does not demand attention, yet it defines the space around it — a gentle reminder that true comfort, like good design, never loses its relevance.
FAQ
Can a wingback chair be appropriate in modern interiors?
A wingback chair could be a perfect choice in modern interiors if it is selected out of dealing with proportion and material. The contemporary versions of this often contain simpler lines, slim wings, and very light textiles that would act as a background for modern design and feel non-traditional or heavy at all. A wingback chair, when chosen wisely, it is not opposition in the space, but a good addition that makes off the balance character and depth, softening an empty school and by this way gives warmth that is sometimes missing in a modern interior.
Are wingback chairs comfortable for sitting over a long time?
Wingback chairs are very comfortable for long periods of sitting. The high back helps you to keep a good posture, while the wings give a feeling of enclosure that promotes relaxation and focus. This is the reason why they are particularly appropriate for reading, quiet conversation or obtaining a long enough time to sit comfortably where comfort is needed to be sustained rather than temporary.
What upholstery is the best for wingback chairs in a family home?
The choice of upholstery is highly dependent on the lifestyle of the people and the duration of daily usage. The hot favorite is leather that people are most of the time opting for in households with a lot of movement because of its strength, easy cleaning, and timeless look. Fabric and velvet materials, on the other side, create a soft and intimate environment hence they prefer being installed in a living space that aims for a homey look and texture. Each of the two can be exquisite when they are in tune with the household’s schedule.
Can a wingback chair composite a smaller room as well?
A wingback chair can definitely fit in a smaller room right with the mix of scale and color, supporting both home comfort and smart furniture arrangement. Chairs with a slim profile, lightest upholstery, and narrower wings that aren’t so pronounced often feel more balanced in compact spaces and work well with thoughtful home styling. Carefully positioned by a window or in a reading corner, the chair can contribute to the room without overstepping, helping create a cozy atmosphere while adding function and visual interest.
Is a footstool necessary, or is the chair itself good enough?
Although a wingback chair is good to have when sitting alone, a footstool can make the overall experience completely different and support both comfort and home improvement. The legs up along with the chair’s lower back seating pressure are two effects of the raised footstool that are found together, and a more relaxed and open seating position can also be mentioned especially in the case of longer use. Besides the comfort, a matching footstool with the chair also adds to the visual and functional cohesiveness of the space as part of home design, working as one of those thoughtful home accessories and subtle home accents that make the seating area not just a secondary part but a complete one.
