In my pre-motherhood days, my aesthetic leaned toward muted tones, but the arrival of my son, Philou, catapulted me into a design identity crisis like no other. Perhaps it was Philou’s unstoppable energy, which he made abundantly clear by kicking me as early as 17 weeks into pregnancy and still does when he pounces on our bed at 6 a.m. Suddenly my previous creations felt lackluster and devoid of vibrant hues. 

Although Philou may not be able to articulate his decor preferences just yet (he’s 20 months old), I attempted to decipher his energy to create a space that truly resonates with his vivacious personality. Our rental home in Brighton, England, with its stripped-back white finishes, became the canvas for a transformation that involved infusing his room with a kaleidoscope of colors, patterns, and shapes. But there was a catch—I aimed to achieve this without making major modifications to the space, ensuring a seamless departure when the time to move eventually arrives. 

Bring Things Down to Their Level

To set the tone, I drew inspiration from the art I accrued during Philou’s first year of life. A framed Matisse print from the local junk market, cards received at his birth, and exhibition leaflets from my pregnant adventures set the stage. But the true star of our son’s budding collection? Two IKEA-framed tea towels by Nigerian artist Yinka Ilori. Hung low just over his play couch, they invite Philou to engage with his room, celebrating his cultural heritage while adding color to the walls.

Pattern doesn’t just belong behind the confines of a frame. To balance out the organic shapes in Philou’s art, I incorporated geometric fabrics, which I used to cover an IKEA Ivar unit using Mod Podge. I also swapped out the doors for curtains to satisfy his obsession with opening and closing things. The miniature closet choice was meant to foster his independence in choosing outfits, although it’s still a work in progress. So far, he prefers to throw his shirts and pants on the floor to create a hideout when he’s not in the mood for nursery in the morning.

Keep Them Busy With Versatile Furniture

Philou’s most cherished (and most versatile) piece of furniture is undoubtedly his Possum Play couch. Its charm lies in its ability to transform from being a cozy nursing chair and a fortress for imaginative adventures to a climbing structure and a comforting nighttime haven for my husband or me when Philou’s under the weather. Our Charles-Antoine Chappuis–inspired papier-mâché lamp, crafted from a Styrofoam ball and two yogurt cups, transforms this wondrous couch into a comfortable reading nook before bedtime.

Design Solutions That Are Safe But Not Boring

Originally an office space, Philou’s room posed a few safety challenges. With the Wi-Fi router and floor plugs posing tripping hazards, and a radiator becoming an impromptu climbing prop near the window, changes were in order. To babyproof in one fell swoop, we bought custom-size MDF panels online and built a ledge that allowed us to conceal the tech and the heater. Using a hole-saw attachment, we drilled openings into the sheet to allow for access and airflow to the radiator, and then painted the whole thing green to add even more color to the walls.

Elevate Their Bed With Basic Reno Materials

When it comes to cribs, I have found many to be lacking in imagination and/or attached with a hefty price tag. I opted for IKEA’s solid beech Sniglar crib, priced at a wallet-friendly $120. In an effort to elevate the simple wood piece, I added a lick of paint (the color is Garden by Little Greene) and—succumbing to my fondness for squiggles and spheres—attached doorknobs from Pretty Pegs to the four corners. (Psst: Amazon sells similar ones.) All this gave a playful nod to a four-poster bed. Finally, I painted eaves fillers from the hardware store, typically used for corrugated roofs, and glued them to the bottom ledge of the bed frame.

From greeting the figures in his art to playfully hiding behind curtains, Philou owns this lively space. Witnessing the sheer delight in his eyes upon returning to his cherished belongings after some time away is comical. But the real win for me? This little adventurer, who detests confinement, now happily spends extended periods playing in his room. Anyone familiar with life alongside a spirited toddler will understand that this achievement is nothing short of a triumph.

The post I Pepped Up IKEA’s Plain Wood Crib With Basic Hardware Store Materials appeared first on domino.

One of the most common requests Molly Sedlacek, founder of landscape design and outdoor product studio ORCA, gets from clients is to rip out the concrete in their yard. Patios, walkways, steps—you name it, they want it gone. “I kept thinking, if everyone needs to remove it, why are we still specifying it?” says Sedlacek. Other than not being all that pleasing to look at, concrete doesn’t allow water to move through it (instead, it must be drained or sloped to a run-off point changing its distribution) or micro-organisms to breathe underneath it. As the earth shifts over time, it cracks and results in pooling, flooding, and bare and rotted roots. Sedlacek’s strong feelings against concrete is part of the reason she’s focused her company on permeable landscaping, or, in other words, setting hardscaping materials in a layer of sand and elevated joints that allow water to flow freely underneath and around them. 

What better place to showcase her ideas than her own Los Angeles home, which Sedlacek bought a little over a year ago when there was barely a garden to speak of? “The day I got the keys, I started excavating,” she recalls. Step one was to level out the lower yard, which stretches 30 feet long and around 25 feet wide. There’s also a smaller upper patio level that Sedlacek sought to turn into usable space. Ahead, she takes us through her outdoor oasis and shares all the ways hardscaping can appear just as organic as plants. 

Secure Your Slice of Paradise

Because her house sits at the bottom of a hill, it’s essentially a basin for all the water runoff in the neighborhood. Sedlacek knew she’d need a sturdy retaining wall along the exterior, so in lieu of using concrete, she patched together large boulders sourced from nearby Santa Paula. The permeable stone allows all the water to pass through it rather than gather in her yard.

When it came to ensuring privacy from the busy street, she first installed a steel fence (its slim profile promised not to soak up any valuable square footage). But to make the metal barrier a touch more stylish, she lined it with wide-plank rough-sawn redwood that’s stained with a fungus-based treatment that is chemical-free. 

Play With Local Clay

Saltillo tile used to line the upper patio, but the material screamed builder-grade, so Sedlacek replaced it with clay pavers made in Sacramento. When choosing materials, she likes to shop locally to limit the freight distance (particularly with bricks, given they are incredibly heavy). “Keeping the manufacturing in California is important to us,” she notes. She also worked glass blocks into the mix, allowing natural light to pass through into her office/studio space below. 

Layer in Cobblestone

ORCA stands for Oregon, California—the location is where Sedlacek’s parents live and work as landscape designers themselves. On a recent trip to their nursery, she scooped up some old cobblestone pavers. “I wanted a piece of Oregon in my garden,” she says. Usually, Sedlacek chooses a gravel that matches the tone of the pavers, but in smaller spaces like her own she goes for a contrasting hue. Here, she used a tan decomposed gravel that pops against the stone and the bay laurel around the perimeter. “The lighter material makes the space look bigger,” she explains. 

Mimic Mother Nature

In addition to custom chairs designed by ORCA, the space’s seating consists of thick pieces of coastal live oak courtesy of Angel City Lumber, a company that upcycles fallen trees in the L.A. area. The beams had to be craned onto Sedlacek’s patio and laid just so to make it appear as though they had fallen on top of the rocks like logs in a forest, but the extra effort was worth it. “We really like to do elements of permanence, just because there’s so many parts of a garden that are very impermanent, like changing plants,” she explains. Even Sedlacek’s dogs are a fan of the arrangement. “They treat it like a balance beam,” she says with a laugh.

While it didn’t apply to her own garden, carving out swales and water catchments is an important part of ORCA’s projects. The company tends to add swales (or long trenches) to spaces where the home’s foundation sits lower than the natural grade of the land, which, if nothing is done about it, inevitably results in poor drainage. “It’s a really nice design feature, plus we’re essentially celebrating the natural ones that appear in the landscape,” says Sedlacek. She also swears by drip irrigation. “It’s the most efficient way to get plants established,“ she adds. The system, which delivers H2O slowly to the roots, usually from above the soil surface, uses less water than a hose, and the plants have a better chance of survival.

The post The Patio Construction Material This Landscape Designer Won’t Ever Work With appeared first on domino.

This story was part of Sofa Week, our seven-day stretch of, you guessed it, sofas. After years spent styling, sitting on, and searching for the best of the best—from bespoke designs to rare under-$500 gems—we’re compiling our couch knowledge in one comfy spot.

One of the perks of working at Domino is the fact that we look at homes, beautifully individual and dynamic, all day long. And with said perk, we spot commonalities along the way. There are a handful of trademark trends we have grown to expect every season: pastels for spring, vibrant hues for summer, and cozy textures for fall. Then there are those that skew toward the less expected and timeless. Case in point: the best red couches.

A departure from the standard white, beige, or taupe-y seat, this fresh alternative immediately brings a bold dose of color and character to any space. We’ve spotted the primary hue in every shade—from blush and tomato to rust and even rich maroon. And the look is surprisingly more versatile than you may think and can be seamlessly integrated within a wide variety of aesthetics. Below, a closer look at a few of our favorite spaces featuring this particular hue, and how creatives and designers tapped it as the centerpiece of their living quarters or let it blend in with the rest of their decor. Then we share a few shoppable look-alikes (especially if the original was bespoke), to boot. 

Armless Red Sofas

In Slash Objects founder Arielle Assouline-Lichten’s Brooklyn studio, this Ligne Roset sofa is an attention-grabbing conversation starter thanks to its bright velvet upholstery. Thankfully it’s also small-space–friendly, making it an appealing pick for apartment dwellers (even if Assouline-Lichten’s lofted space is quite large). The armless, futon-esque frame allows for the creative’s other vintage finds to shine. Our picks, below, also deliver a love seat-like vibe.

Alcott Hill Parkes 50-Inch Upholstered Settee, Wayfair ($490 was $753)

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Dylan Velvet Bean Bag 2-Seat Sofa, Urban Outfitters ($379)

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Aris Armless Loveseat in Mabel Rose, Crate & Barrel ($2,248)

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Kumo 3-Seater Sofa, Canyon, Hem ($4,949)

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Softline Duet Daybed, Design Within Reach ($1,271 was $1,495)

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Clyde 67-Inch Sofa, Blu Dot ($2,095)

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Square-Arm Red Sofas

With retro wood paneling as the backdrop, this Reath Design custom sofa covered in a deep red-toned velvet by Kravet makes a straightforward, square-arm design instantly more interesting in Brynn Jones’s home. You can do the same with our favorite sofa brands—Floyd, Lulu and Georgia, West Elm, Pottery Barn, and more all offer a range of reds to dress up their simple frames. 

Hadley Plaid Sofa, GreenRow ($4,700)

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Belmont Sofa by Ginny Macdonald, Lulu and Georgia ($3,298)

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Urban Queen Sleeper Sofa (84-Inch), West Elm ($2,599)

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Two-Piece Form Sectional in Sisu Pink/Orange, Floyd ($2,744 was $3,920)

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Curved Red Sofas

We’ll never tire of a velvet sofa, especially one that comes in just the right shade of saturated crimson or a softer red-tinted blush. Add to the material a curvy frame that looks and feels like a hug and we’ve pretty much summed up Anthropologie’s Vera sofa, the very one that can be found in Lathan Thomas’s joyful Brooklyn home. As one reviewer so aptly summarizes, “It’s beautiful from every angle.” We tried to channel that feeling into our finds, below. 

Vera Sofa, Anthropologie ($2,798)

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Orren Ellis 86.61-Inch Upholstered Curved Sofa, Wayfair ($1,700)

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The Chelsea Sofa, 80-Inch, Spice Mohair, Maiden Home ($6,650)

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Gramercy Curved Sofa, Paprika, abc carpet & home ($6,630)

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Emet Three Seat Sofa, Soho Home ($5,195)

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Pumpkin Sofa by Pierre Paulin for Roset Line, Chairish ($4,846)

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Statement Red Sofas

Leave it to a former Prada architect to get experimental with living room design. We still think about the custom-made raspberry sofa—with the perfect fringe detail—that Roberto Baciocchi designed himself. The original proves that, sometimes, color is just the start of a standout piece. If you’re seeking a look as unique as Baciocchi’s Tuscany guesthouse, double down on the bold factor by pairing the shade with a funky silhouette, channel-tufting details, or a pattern.

Grady Pleated Sofa, Serena & Lily ($6,998)

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Saxon Sofa, Ap2B ($2,748)

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Popus Editions Lena 3 Seater Sofa in Red Verone Velvet Upholstery, 1stDibs ($3,703)

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Maisie Channeled Sofa, Rust Velvet, One Kings Lane ($4,395)

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Svenson Sofa, Lava Cannes Velvet ($4,155)

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Offset 3-Seater Sofa, 08 Boucle, Audo ($3,565)

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The post We Found the Best Red Couches, as Inspired by Our Favorite Spaces appeared first on domino.

Picking out kitchen cabinet hardware as your renovation wraps up is like getting the dessert menu at the end of a meal. It’s a sweet way to end things. Still, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the choices before you. Latches, handles, knobs, or pulls? Matte black, antique brass, or polished nickel? Tiny and seamless or oversize? Understanding the ins and outs of each is the key to making a confident decision.

“Sizing and function are the two most important factors when considering what cabinet hardware is best,” says Kimberlee Gorsline, founder and principal designer of Kimberlee Marie Interiors. So let’s begin with the most common hardware on kitchen cupboards: knobs and pulls. Their end goal is really the same—to give you access to the stuff that’s on the other side—but the two options serve a space differently. So here’s everything to know about knobs versus pulls, upper cabinets versus lower cabinets, and getting the scale right in your space. Plus we share 16 options to shop for your own.

When should I use knobs on kitchen cabinets?

The general rule of thumb is that knobs are best for cabinet doors, though you can certainly break said rule. “We might do a single knob on a smaller drawer,” says Gorsline. It doesn’t matter what shape you go with (they come in round, square, oblong, octagonal—you name it), what’s important is location; place them 2 1/2 or 3 inches from the corner of the door. 

When should I use pulls on kitchen cabinets?

Pulls offer a bit more flexibility because you can put them on both drawers and doors. “Overall I think that pulls are easier to grasp than knobs,” adds Michelle Lisac, founder and principal designer of Michelle Lisac Interior Design. That’s especially nice if your cabinet fronts are on the larger end and you need a bit more leverage to open them. 

What size should my knobs and pulls be?

Start by accounting for the length of your cabinets. For smaller nooks, like spice pull-outs or slim doors that hide cutting boards, go with knobs that are 1 inch in diameter or smaller. Otherwise, knobs that are between 1 ¼ and 1 ⅜ inches will suffice. That said, there are benefits to supersizing your knobs. Not only does it make them easier to grab, but the visual effect (especially if they’re painted the same color as your cabinet doors) is showstopping. 

Pulls are a bit trickier to get right. “If you have a long drawer, you will need a long pull to support the weight of pulling out the drawer,” explains Gorsline. To simplify your shop, consider picking one size and using them throughout your cabinetry. A 3¾-inch distance between the screw holes looks nice on most cabinets and is large enough to grip comfortably. 

What finish should I choose?

Let your cupboard color and style guide your hardware material. Check out a few of our favorite pairings, including iron on beadboard fronts, glass against a high-gloss finish, and wood painted to match vibrant doors. But don’t forget about satin and polished nickel, chrome, matte black, and copper. “In some scenarios, hardware is best applied like jewelry, and in others, you want it to be understated,” says Caitlin Murray, founder and creative director of Black Lacquer Design, who is obsessed with the former lately (she’s into organic shapes that look sculptural, like in this Bel Air kitchen). 

“I’m currently loving an unlacquered brass, but I also like pulls with a combination of either textures or finishes, like Emtek’s knurled bars,” says Lisac. Style aside, her most important rule is to invest in quality. After all, “these are items that you are literally going to be touching every day,” she points out.

Can I mix knobs and pulls in the same kitchen?  

There are two ways to go about incorporating knobs and pulls seamlessly in one kitchen. The first route is to put knobs on all the upper cabinets and pulls on all the lower cabinets for visual balance. The second option is to put knobs on all the doors and pulls on all the drawers, prioritizing function. But who said you can’t throw out the rule book entirely? Shea McGee mixed knobs, latches, thin pulls, and cup pulls in her kitchen, above—and thanks to the fact that they’re all the same brass finish, it totally works. Open sesame.

Cabinet Knobs We Love

Newberg Knob, Schoolhouse ($12 was $14)

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Emtek Jasper 2-Inch Bar Cabinet Knob, Amazon ($10)

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Amerock 1-3/8 inch Cabinet Knob, Champagne Bronze, Amazon ($5 was $6)

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Sumner Street Home Hardware Aspen 1-1/16 inch Egg Cabinet Knob, The Home Depot ($7)

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Bill Knob, 40 mm, Pretty Pegs ($8)

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Round Knob, H&M Home ($10)

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Linear Furniture Knob, Set of 2, Buster & Punch ($40)

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Octagon Glass Cabinet Knob, Rejuvenation ($18)

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Cabinet Pulls We Love

Amerock Cabinet Cup Pull, Amazon ($8 was $12)

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Ansel 12-inch Drawer Pull, Rejuvenation ($72)

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4-Inch Matte Black Mid-Century Pull, West Elm ($14)

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4-Inch Acrylic Cabinet Pull, Ballard Designs ($23)

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Belfast Solid Brass 3-Inch Cabinet Pull, Signature Hardware ($17)

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Combined Semicircle Handle, Medium, Etsy ($3 was $4)

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Wrought Iron 3-Inch Cabinet Pull, Etsy ($11 was $12)

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Barrington 4-Inch Edge Pull, Rejuvenation ($28)

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The post When to Use Kitchen Cabinet Knobs vs. Pulls, and More Hardware Questions Answered appeared first on domino.

Thou shalt love thy neighbor…unless that neighbor’s home exterior needs a paint job and a good weed whacking. Thumbtack recently teamed up with Nextdoor to survey more than 1,000 homeowners across the country to find out how much they value curb appeal and how it affects their neighborhoods (and neighborly relationships). Seventy-one percent of respondents claimed having terrible curb appeal would impact their relationship with a neighbor in at least one major way. 

So you leave your trash cans at the end of the driveway for one day too long. Will everyone on your street detest you for it? Probably not. According to the report, the biggest curb appeal faux pas are trash in the yard; an overgrown lawn; parking old cars, RVs, vans, or boats out front; and a home’s exterior needing a wash or paint job. Luckily, aside from finding another place to park any extra joy rides, all of these no-no’s can be easily addressed. Thumbtack’s data reveals it’ll cost you only $5,000 for a light curb appeal boost. Here are a few of those key updates it suggests for getting on everyone’s good side: 

Replace the Front Door

Is the focal point of your facade dragging everything down? Consider swapping your door for a new one, which will cost you an average $473 according to Thumbtack. When Australian designers Daniel To and Emma Aiston renovated their 1910 house, they enlarged the opening to make way for a supersize sunny yellow entrance that screams “happy to be here.” 

Trim Back Shrubs and Plant Flowers

Regular mowing is only one step toward a manicured yard. Give your boxwoods and azaleas that just-planted look by cutting any growth you don’t want, focusing on the inner limbs that need air and sunlight to thrive, like designer Luke Havekes did at his cozy cottage. Once you’ve got a handle on that, introduce new flowers (an average of $667). 

Add Outdoor Lighting and Stain the Deck

If you’re willing to invest a little more, make your house shine by installing sconces on either side of your door or a pendant light on the porch (approximately $947). A sleek-looking deck that’s either stained or painted will run you around the same cost, and when in doubt, stick to a simple black and white combo like Cassie Winslow’s dreamy Sacramento home. 

The post 71% of Homeowners Admit to Judging Their Neighbors for This Easy-to-Fix Yard Issue appeared first on domino.

This story was part of Sofa Week, our seven-day stretch of, you guessed it, sofas. After years spent styling, sitting on, and searching for the best of the best—from bespoke designs to rare under-$500 gems—we’re compiling our couch knowledge in one comfy spot.

If you grew up in the early aughts, you likely have vivid memories of hanging out on a cartoon-covered blob. We’re happy to report that the best couches for kids nowadays are no longer limited to those garishly hued numbers. In fact, today’s kid-friendly furniture could easily be mistaken for miniature love seats, and they’re durable, too. While we know of a few designer hacks to make adult-size furniture childproof (hello, FiberSeal), isn’t there something special about providing a designated spot for toddlers and tweens, whether for snacking, reading, or keying up a good old-fashioned puppet show? Besides, while our list of the best couches for kids varies greatly in shape (we’re talking beanbag sofas and modular foam that looks more like building blocks), none should cramp your interior style. 

Our Favorites

• Best for playtime: Brentwood Home Play Couch
• Best for movie nights: West Elm Kids Flip Floor Sleeper
• Best for a reading nook: Crate & Kids Rattan Kids Twin Daybed
• Best for game rooms: Urban Outfitters Roma Sofa
• Best for sleepovers: Made Haru Sofa
• Best for all ages: Article Gabriola Ivory Bouclé Love Seat

Best for Playtime: Brentwood Home Play Couch 

Play Couch, Brentwood Home ($315, was $349)

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Material: Recycled polyester and nylon | Dimensions: Varies | Fill: High-density foam 

Why we chose it: A modular sofa with configurations limited only by your child’s imagination. 

While Jill Singer of Sight Unseen enlisted the help of Keren and Thomas Richter of White Arrow to custom-make child-size foam building blocks (think: oversize rectangles, triangles, and cylinders) to outfit her family’s Hamptons basement, you can enjoy a similar setup right off the shelf with Brentwood Home’s Play Couch. Offering two more pieces than the cult-favorite Nugget, this set of six can come together in the shape of a classic couch, with back cushions and sheltered arms, or be configured into pretty much anything your child puts their mind to, though reviewers most often revere its seemingly endless fort possibilities.  

Best for Movie Nights: West Elm Kids Flip Floor Sleeper

Flip Floor Sleeper, West Elm ($550 and up)

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Material: Varies | Dimensions: 71-by-33-by-21.5 inches | Fill: Polyurethane foam 

 Why we chose it: The slouchy silhouette of a beanbaglike floor pillow embodies that notion of cool and comfortable that will transition with your child. 

Keep a floor sofa in the kids-only zone (like designer Hollie Velten-Lattrell did) as a crash pad for Disney marathons. While Velten-Lattrell’s original buy from Urban Outfitters is no longer available, this West Elm alternative is a pretty close second. Plan to plop it in front of a TV or projector screen for Saturday-morning cartoons or weekend movie nights (and if buttery popcorn happens to be the snack of choice, you can choose from a swath of performance fabrics, including distressed velvet, tweed, and washed canvas). 

Best for a Reading Nook: Crate & Kids Rattan Kids Twin Daybed 

Rattan Kids Twin Daybed, Crate&Barrel ($1,000)

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Material: Rattan | Dimensions: 85-by-42-by-36 inches | Fill: N/A 

Why we chose it: It’ll fit a twin mattress or two couch cushions, so it’s easy to switch up the color or pattern of whatever sheets or duvet cover you swaddle it with. 

Technically this is a daybed, but if you place enough pillows (to do double duty as back- and armrests), it’s worthy of our list of the best couches for kids. Keep a fully stacked library within reach and it’ll become an irresistible spot to snuggle up with their latest Scholastic find. And no harm is done if they doze off (it just so happens to be Heather Taylor’s children’s sleeping spot in their Laurel Canyon home). Plus the sturdy iron-base frame and legs won’t buckle if your child doesn’t exactly happen to have the best track record with the “no jumping on the bed” rule. 

Best for Game Rooms: Urban Outfitters Roma Sofa 

Roma Sofa, Urban Outfitters ($1,299)

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Material: Polyester, rubberwood, and plywood | Dimensions: 74.8-by-33.5-by-30 inches | Fill: Rayon foam 

Why we chose it: An unexpected design that can hold its own in the same space as a table tennis tournament. 

We may have only caught a glimpse of the Roma Sofa hanging out in the ultra-cool game room of a recent Studio DB–designed New Jersey beach house, but we can’t unsee it as a perfect hangout spot. The playful wavy wood frame adds a touch of whimsy, but the full two-seater offers deep, 26-inch cushions roomy enough for siblings, friends, and visitors alike. It’s an unexpected, kid-friendly find, but likely ideal for an older crowd.  

Best for Sleepovers: Made Haru Sofa 

Haru Sofa, Made ($383)

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Material: Polyester | Dimensions: 16-by-47-by-20 inches | Fill: Polyethylene

Why we chose it: This compact cutie unfolds from lounger to sofa bed in seconds.   

This sofa might just be impossible to grow out of, as it’s a small space saver that’ll earn the approval of guests of any age. We first spotted the model in this attic–turned–kids’ room on England’s Kent coast, where it’s an essential part of the seat setup. Its first form is incredibly compact, taking up barely any square footage thanks to a 20-inch depth that’s still long enough to fit two kids, before extending out a full 71 inches, aka longer than a twin. Though we’d keep the back part up for a quasi-tufted headboard.  

Best for All Ages: Article Gabriola Ivory Bouclé Love Seat

Gabriola Ivory Bouclé Love Seat, Article ($699)

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Material: Bouclé, solid wood | Dimensions: 31-by-64-by-34 inches | Fill: Foam

Why we chose it: For a style that’ll grow with your kiddos (and that you can enjoy right along with them). 

You don’t have to be 10 or younger to enjoy Article’s Gabriola love seat, and that’s exactly why it’s now one of our favorite kid couches. This is the kind of child-friendly sofa that has staying power—it’s large enough for parents or babysitters to enjoy throughout the younger years, and the compact silhouette is suitable for small spaces and little legs. It’s one of the very first pieces of furniture you’ll see when entering designer Erin Fetherston’s L.A. home; her front door opens up next to her kids’ playroom. Fetherston removed the slatted legs, which gives the Gabriola a superlow profile and makes it even easier for her three children to climb up and down from. (A smart tip: The legs can always go back on when the gang is older.)

On Our Radar

P’Kolino Litte Reader Sofa

P’Kolino Little Reader Sofa, Maisonette ($170)

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This sofa would be the perfect addition to any reading nook, and we’re not just saying that because the side arms feature a built-in pocket to keep your kiddo’s favorite books within close reach. The cushy foam base is wrapped up in stain-resistant fabrics and offers an angular silhouette perfect for sitting up on. And bonus: The middle can fold out into a sleeper for impromptu naps or playtime.

Pottery Barn Teen x West Elm Carmen Sofa

Carmen Sofa, West Elm ($599)

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This floor sofa can be wrapped up in either a velvety performance fabric, nubby bouclé, or neutral twill that will easily transition from the toddler to tween years. 

Gray Malin x Cloth Company Settee

Settee, Gray Malin x Cloth Company ($1,350)

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For a touch of whimsy and heirloom-level quality—we’re talking 100% cotton upholstery and solid wood legs—Maisonette’s made-to-order settee offers a storybook-like illustration pattern that feels fantastical but not too childish. Seriously, we can see your kids passing this one down to their children (and so on and so forth). 

Milliard Modular Kids Sofa

Modular Kids Sofa, Milliard ($160)

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At a quick glance, you’d never guess this small sofa could be dismantled into a bed, lightweight poufs, ottomans, and even a puppet theater. Other review-backed perks: The velour cover is removable and machine washable, and the whole thing arrives in one vacuum-sealed package. Did we mention it’s less than $200? 

Our Shopping Checklist

Size

As they’re designed with little humans in mind, the best couches for kids are compact and low-profile, even sitting directly on the ground. Smaller dimensions make it easier for toddlers to crawl on and off safely, especially since playtime inevitably dissolves into roughhousing. 

Easy-to-Clean Materials

Spills and stains are bound to happen anytime kids are involved, which is why designers often pick out tight-patterned, textured, or dark fabrics for sofas, as they’re better at hiding the marks that refuse to come out after you’ve tried blotting them up with soap, water, and vinegar without success. Psst: Leather and velvet are actually more durable than parents think, and the real deal will develop a lovely patina over time.   

Durability

As we’ve confirmed: Kids are messy. They somehow always seem to have their hands in something, and no matter if you watched them diligently wash their hands, their fingers are still sticky from that peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwich at lunch. That’s why we recommend going with performance fabrics. In fact, sofas aside, many designers will opt for tough textiles when upholstering a window-seat cushion or banquette (for example, Kate Hayes of Little Hayes Studio chose an indoor-outdoor–approved fabric from Schumacher for a preteen room). They’re less likely to get threadbare or tear. High-density foam filling is also important to note, as regular foam will more easily misshape with age (though if you don’t plan to keep them for longer than your kid outgrows them, this isn’t a detail to get too hung up on).   

The Last Word

The best couches for kids are designed to be the go-to seat for your children from the toddler to tween years. This is the place they’ll (hopefully) go to read, eat a snack, or (let’s face it) binge-watch Peppa Pig on their tablet, so it needs to be as comfy as it is durable. 

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When you think of a spalike bathroom, you imagine a space with lots of bells and whistles (a showerhead that doubles as a speaker, a bidet with five temperature settings). But there is another way to zen out, and modern farmhouse bathrooms hold all the answers. Instead of giving you all many luxuries that seemingly make for a relaxing experience, these spaces slow your mind and body down by stripping away the techy upgrades and leaving you with just the essentials. Think: cast-iron sinks that are deep enough to also hand-wash delicates in and pine wood walls that smell so good on their own there’s no need to light a candle. Ahead, we rounded up 10 modern farmhouse bathrooms that’ll make you want to bliss out.

The Basement Modern Farmhouse Bathroom

With no natural light, designer Priscilla Frost had to find a way to make this Portland, Oregon, basement bathroom feel less cavernous and more welcoming with a series of optical illusions. The first? Swathing the room in floor-to-ceiling subway tile gives the impression of a taller ceiling. And unlike a curtain, the glass shower enclosure (a $1,200 Home Depot score) keeps the space feeling airy and open. 

The Family-Friendly Modern Farmhouse Bathroom

Interior designer Rachel Sloane Sherman thought about her New Jersey clients’ entire family when renovating their beige primary bathroom (the owners’ three kids were ages 7, 4, and 1 at the time). Next to the new freestanding soaking tub, she carved out a marble-lined niche so everyone could grab a towel without getting water on the polished herringbone Nero Marquina floors. Then for Mom and Dad, she went with elevated materials like white zellige shower tile and glass knobs on the prefab vanities. 

The Modern Farmhouse Bathroom That’s Actually in a Cabin

What is a modern farmhouse bathroom without a scrappy DIY? To support the 100-pound stone sink they bought on Etsy for their woodsy Maine retreat, designer Hannah Oravec and her husband, Michael, had to build a frame structure out of old beams so they could drop it securely in place. In an effort to not have too much going on in such a tiny space, they continued the checkered Fireclay shower tile (in Antique and Carbon) onto the edges of the tub and the floor. 

The Bright White Modern Farmhouse Bathroom

For Leanne Ford, white acts as the best canvas for showcasing organic and textural elements—in the case of this 1945 farmhouse, that included things like ceramic tile, shiplap boards, and a cast-iron tub. To ensure the monochromatic space didn’t read as boring, she used a sail (yes, like one from a boat!) for the shower curtain. 

The Green Thumb’s Modern Farmhouse Bathroom

When designer Kelsey Duda stumbled across a piece of land located in Elk Rapids, Michigan, for sale on Craigslist, she knew it would be the perfect place to build a rental property. And while many vacation homes feel like an afterthought, her rustic retreat keeps guests in mind around every corner, even in the shower and nearby open shelves. 

The Cali Modern Farmhouse Bathroom

Mariam Naficy, founder and CEO of Minted, took two classic farmhouse design tropes—barn doors and raw wood—and put her own, San Francisco–inspired spin on things. Rather than mounting the dark green door on a sliding track, she stuck to matte black hinges. Over at the vanity, she topped a chunk of wood with a wide metal sink that leaves just enough counter space for toothbrushes. 

The Canadian Modern Farmhouse Bathroom

“There’s something so romantic about life in the country,” says interior designer Luke Havekes, who owns this 1841 farmhouse in Canada’s Eastern Townships. He fully embraced this perspective upstairs with a claw-foot tub, toile wallpaper, and a sculptural brass mobile that’s on full display when the shutters are open. 

The Brooklyn Modern Farmhouse Bathroom

Mid-century and modern farmhouses are an unlikely yet totally harmonious pair. This bathroom by the Brownstone Boys is exhibit A: They turned a classic West Elm media console into a vanity complete with vessel sinks and quartz counters left over from the kitchen reno. 

The Artful Modern Farmhouse Bathroom

Streetwear designer Beth Birkett imparted her signature vibrant shades on her sons’ bathroom with a vintage orange sink and a craft cart that is filled with bathing essentials. Everything looks even punchier against Farrow & Ball’s Off-Black paint on the walls.

The Earthy Modern Farmhouse Bathroom

Emily Ward drew on the sunny palette of Northern California when designing her West Marin home. The bunkhouse bathroom features Clé’s zellige tile in Golden Henna and an exposed pipe shower by Signature Hardware. An antique lamp and gallery of oil paintings give the room that coveted out-in-the-country touch. 

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We simply can’t quit pink. Ever since 2017, the millennial variety has had a hold on everything from our makeup packaging to our bed linens. Then the star-studded Barbie movie catapulted bolder shades of flamingo, fuchsia, and magenta back into the spotlight and our shopping carts. Every hue is on the table, which is all the more reason to set up a pink nursery for your new addition to the family. And it’s very possible to dip a toe into the trend and still keep your baby’s room timeless. Read on for seven pink nurseries that employ lots of layers—and an unexpected accent color or two—to achieve just that.

The Pink Nursery That’s an Ode to a Doên Dress

Doên cofounder Margaret Kleveland had a few tricks up her floral sleeves when she created her daughter’s nostalgic wonderland. First, she skipped a standard dresser for a timeworn English pine dining hutch that tones down the modern lines of the crib. Next, she draped the latter in a blush pink canopy that turns all the other accents—from the chevron rug and ruffled throw pillows to the Setting Plaster by Farrow & Ball walls—into one big happy family.

The Floor-to-Ceiling Pink Nursery

Dealing with tight quarters? Follow designer Allison Crawford’s lead and use the same hue everywhere. We’re talking walls, molding, ceiling, and even the floating shelves to ensure the room feels as expansive as possible. Crawford went with Clare’s bright coral Pop in this little client’s nursery, which reads cool rather than cliché.

The good kind of baby blues.
Check out our blue nursery ideas →

The Pink Nursery That Masters the Mix

The leafy amber Soane Britain wallpaper overhead, twin scalloped canopies, and coconut shell pendant lamp in this Diablo, California, nursery by designer Marea Clark put the dusty rose walls in a supporting role. And with its subtle gray undertone, the paint color easily swings neutral.

The Fairy-Tale Pink Nursery

Activewear designer Jasmine Tookes’s starting point for turning a guest room into her daughter Mia Victoria’s nursery? “Vintage fairy-tale storybooks,” she told People. Working with Crate & Kids, she made real-life magic with James Alexander’s limewash Rosa Pink and a swath of hunter green wildflower wallpaper, all watched over by a trio of sweet felt animals.

Feeling sage?
We’ve got sage green nursery ideas →

The One-Hit-Wonder Pink Nursery

Gucci’s Heron wallpaper, the hero of this nursery by designer Tara Magel, is undoubtedly a splurge, but it’s the only one you’ll need to make. With everyone’s eyes on the oversize print, the rest of the details, from the daybed to the dresser, can be supersimple.

The Pink Nursery With Arch Support

A salmon pink built-in archway does it all in this nursery by Paris design studio Space Factory. For now, it creates a designated nook for the bassinet, provides enough depth for proper wardrobes on either side, and squeezes in additional storage up top. When the child is older, the open shelving will take on a new role as the bedside “table” for a twin mattress.

The Just Enough Pink Nursery

Can you spot the subtle optical illusion in this nursery by design firm Chango & Co.? At first glance, it seems like every wall is painted white. But look closer, and it becomes clear that the stretch behind the crib is a pastel woodland wallpaper. Thanks to the small-scale motif and pale colorway, it reads more texture than pattern—ideal if you’re not ready for all-pink everything.

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Reading up on Domino’s shopping guides is like having your own personal product concierge. We do the tedious part—deep-dive research, hands-on testing, and tapping experts for advice—so all you have to do is hit “add to cart.” That’s why we call them Simply the Best.

Sleeper sofas aren’t what they used to be—and that’s a good thing. Whatever lumpy pull-out mattress you crashed on years ago in your friend’s parents’ basement, forget about it. “With advances in design and technology, sleeper sofas now look like actual sofas and perform like actual beds,” says Mary Beth Christopher of MBC Interior Design. “This means you can truly get dual function not just out of the sofa but out of rooms as well. It’s a form and function success story!”

With the addition of a design-forward sleeper sofa (or is it a couch bed?), offices can double as guest bedrooms. Playrooms can become a spot for cousin sleepovers. Living rooms can act as an overflow sleeping area. “When square footage is limited, it’s not practical to devote an entire room for the occasional guest,” says interior designer Sarah Cole. “However, a sleeper sofa allows a space to be multifunctional for those once-in-a-blue-moon guest stays.” 

Now thanks to improved folding mechanisms, brands have been able to design higher-end sleeper sofas that you and your overnight guests will love to both sit and sleep on. Imagine intriguing silhouettes, slim arms, and less bulky cushions. We combed through our favorites and narrowed down the 11 best sleeper sofas. Read on for our top picks. 

Our Favorites

• Best easy conversion: Article Braam Sleeper Sofa
• Best compact: Lulu and Georgia Coniston Sleeper Sofa 
• Best crazy-cozy mattress: West Elm Harmony Modular Sleeper Sofa
• Best value: DHP Franklin Mid-Century Daybed
• Best customization options: Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams Landry Plain Signature Sofa
• Best extra storage: EQ3 Reva Sectional Sofa Sleeper
• Best sink-in-and-stay design: Ballard Designs Baldwin Upholstered Queen Sleeper
• Best oversize option: Rove Concepts Milo Sleeper Sofa
• Best slim silhouette: Serena & Lily Grady Sleeper
• Best sleeper chair: ABC Home Cobble Hill Amy Twin Sleeper Chair
• Best slipcovered: Crate & Barrel Willow II Slipcovered Queen Sleeper Sofa 

Best Easy Conversion: Article Braam Sleeper Sofa

Braam Sleeper Sofa, Article ($1,299)

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Width up to: 75 inches | Mattress size: Queen or 2 twins | Mattress fill: Foam and pocket springs

Why we chose it: Converting from couch to bed doesn’t get much easier than this.  

We’ve all been there, grunting and groaning as we try to yank out the heavy folded bed of a sleeper sofa. That’s not how this Article couch works. Instead, fold out the top bench cushion that’s secured via Velcro panel and—voilà! A nearly queen-size sleep area or two twin mattresses. They are made of high-density foam and pocket springs wrapped in polyester fiber, which are situated atop a wood frame. There’s no assembly required, which is a good thing since it weighs in at more than 130 pounds, and the sizing is nice for a small office or apartment living room. As a bed, it’s low to the ground, but you can achieve a makeshift guest suite by adding a mattress topper and your finest set of linens. The fact that it’s also a sophisticated armless, cool-as-can-be sofa? Even better. 

Best Compact: Lulu and Georgia Coniston Sleeper Sofa 

Coniston Linen Sleeper Sofa by Ginny Macdonald, Lulu and Georgia ($5,698)

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Width up to: 73 inches | Mattress size: Queen, king | Mattress fill: Foam

Why we chose it: When a full house requires something that won’t crowd you or your other furniture.

Designer Ginny Macdonald’s Lulu and Georgia collaboration yielded plenty of desirable goods, including new upholstery for this exclusive number. The quaint three-person seater can be wrapped in stain-resistant linen, plush velvet, or a bouclé blend. We love that its sloped-arm silhouette won’t overpower smaller spaces—and that it incorporates Macdonald’s traditionally British and California-cool style. That’s part of the reason why it’s easy to mistake the timeless design for a sofa alone, when in reality you can remove the two cushions to easily pull out a foldable foam mattress. “This is the best sleeper sofa we’ve ever had,” notes one 5-star reviewer. “Solid construction. No spring-foldable mattress is fantastic. Firm but wonderful!” 

Best Crazy-Cozy Mattress: West Elm Harmony Modular Sleeper Sofa

Harmony Modular Sleeper Sofa, West Elm ($2,799)

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Width up to: 84.5 inches | Mattress size: Queen | Mattress fill: High-density foam and gel foam

Why we chose it: The gel-foam mattress ensures a cool, comfortable night’s sleep for anyone who crashes. 

Sleeper sofas aren’t known for their rave-worthy mattresses, but this West Elm design is an exception. Its mattress is constructed with a layer of high-density foam and a layer of gel-infused foam that contours to your shape and wicks away body heat. (Sweaty sleepers, rejoice!) Sofa-wise, it’s just as impressive, with a contemporary bench seat and the option to add on an ottoman, which instantly turns it into a sectional. “This is a nice, clean style that will act like a design chameleon depending on its environment,” says Christopher. “Traditional or more modern, this is an easy fit.”

Best Value: DHP Franklin Mid-Century Daybed

DHP Franklin Mid-Century Daybed ($371)

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Width up to: 78 inches | Mattress size: Twin, full, queen | Mattress fill: Mattress not included

Why we chose it: This daybed doesn’t take up much space—and doesn’t cost a fortune either. 

It doesn’t get much simpler, or more affordable, than this daybed. With no couch-to-bed conversion necessary, it’s the best of both worlds, offering you an extra-flexible piece of furniture. Just ask yourself a few questions. Velvet or linen? Twin, full, or queen? Will you place it in a guest room, kid’s bedroom, or office? The only (potential) downside: The mattress is sold separately. Though at this price point that allows you to invest in one that’s the perfect size and firmness for you.

Best Customization Options: Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams Landry Plain Signature Sofa

Landry Plain Signature Sofa, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams ($5,460)

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Width up to: 77 or 85 inches | Mattress size: Full, queen | Mattress fill: Foam core with a plush foam topper

Why we chose it: Are 343 upholstery options enough for you?

The sky’s the limit with the exterior on this sofa. Looking for a vegan leather sleeper sofa? Great. Stone-colored linen? Check. How about emerald velvet? That’s an option, too. This sleeper sofa is available in so many fabric choices—343 of them!—you’re practically guaranteed to find the exact color, texture, and overall look you’re hoping to achieve. Seattle-based interior designer Kirsten Conner is a fan, not only of the customization but its silhouette. “It has smooth, curved lines that echo the Art Deco vibe that is strong right now,” she says. “It doesn’t scream, ‘I’m your typical track-arm Airbnb sleeper sofa.’ It does a far better job than many others at masquerading as a truly sexy sofa.

Best Extra Storage: EQ3 Reva Sectional Sofa Sleeper

Reva Sectional Sofa Sleeper, EQ3 ($7,549)

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Width up to: 126.8 inches | Mattress size: Double or queen | Mattress fill: Memory foam

Why we chose it: Multifunctionality for the win—this sectional’s chaise opens up for extra storage.

Our love for a chaise longue knows no bounds, but add the word storage in there and we’re practically swooning. With this sleeper sofa, you won’t have to venture back and forth to the linen closet to make up the pull-out bed whenever guests are ready to hit the hay; simply store everything you need right in the sofa. The chaise can go on the left or right, the arm width can be standard or narrow, and the mattress can be a double or queen size.

Best Sink-in-and-Stay Design: Ballard Designs Baldwin Upholstered Queen Sleeper

Baldwin Upholstered Queen Sleeper, Ballard Designs ($3,199 was $3,999)

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Width up to: 89 inches | Mattress size: Queen | Mattress fill: Spring

Why we chose it: Whether in couch or bed form, this sleeper begs you to cozy up and stay a while.

Just looking at this sleeper sofa has us feeling a nap coming on. It’s that cozy, no matter if it’s in couch mode or has been pulled out to reveal the tucked-in queen-size mattress. There’s no going wrong with any of the (many, many) fabric options, which include plenty of patterns as well as solid neutrals. Then pile on the pillows, including the four matching throw pillows it comes with, and kick your feet up. Here’s betting you’ll get plenty of use out of this sleeper sofa for years to come.

Best Oversize Option: Rove Concepts Milo Sleeper Sofa

Milo Sleeper Sofa, Rove Concepts ($2,499)

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Width up to: 98.4 inches | Mattress size: Queen | Mattress fill: Spring

Why we chose it: This large-and-in-charge sleeper sofa will be the star of your living room (without overwhelming the overall design).  

This sleeper sofa is a series of contradictions. It is low profile but high in style. It’s substantial in size—more than 8 feet long!—yet would blend in beautifully with other furniture. It’s sophisticated but casual. Best of all, the cushions simply flip over to create an easily convertible sofa bed. Sleepovers just got way more fun.

Best Slim Silhouette: Serena & Lily Grady Sleeper

Grady Sleeper, Serena & Lily ($8,898)

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Width up to: 88 inches | Mattress size: King | Mattress fill: Foam

Why we chose it: While the sofa features slight, squared-off lines, its king-size mattress offers plenty of room for guests to stretch out.

“When you think of sleepers, you usually think of big and bulky,” says Kristine Renee of Design Alchemy. That doesn’t describe this one, even though it’s one of the longest options on this list with a king-size bed tucked inside. “I like how this has petite, feminine lines while still being highly functional,” she adds. “The slimmer arms take up less space, and that sloped profile gives it a nice element of unexpected style that is current and timeless.” There’s also an abundance of printed fabrics to choose from, if you want your sleeper to make more of a statement. Looking for something even smaller? We also reviewed the best sleeper sofas for small spaces.

Best Sleeper Chair: ABC Home Cobble Hill Amy Twin Sleeper Chair

Cobble HIll Amy Twin Sleeper Chair, ABC Carpet & Home ($5,445)

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Width: 41 inches | Mattress size: Twin | Mattress: Innerspring 

Why we chose it: When less is more, opt for a chair—its twin mattress might just make it the comfiest sleeper on this list.

A compact chair version of the Amy Queen sleeper sofa (which we also love, by the way), this clean-lined seat discreetly hides a pull-out twin mattress that our managing shopping editor, Samantha Weiss-Hills, swears is the comfiest she’s experienced. In her words, it strikes the perfect balance of “sinking-in” softness and quality support. Plus operating the opening mechanism is seamless. There’s no laboring involved; the back cushion lifts up to act as a quasi-headboard, and the bottom cushion unfolds into the bed. It’s sizable enough where it doesn’t feel like a cot, making it an ideal addition to a home office that may already be tight on space. 

Best Slipcovered: Crate & Barrel Willow II Slipcovered Sleeper Sofa

Willow II Slipcovered Queen Sleeper Sofa, Crate & Barrel ($2,299)

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Width up to: 84 inches | Mattress size: Queen | Mattress fill: Spring 

Why we chose it: At first glance, you’d never guess this cottage-style couch is slipcovered—or that it has a bed inside.

Modern and tailored. As of a decade ago, those probably wouldn’t have been the words you’d use to describe a slipcovered sofa, let alone a sleeper. Now however, both slipcovered sofas and sleeper sofas—and best yet, a slipcovered sleeper sofa, like this one from Crate & Barrel—can make for a solid couch option. This pick doesn’t compromise style, comfort, or convenience with its fitted cotton covers. “I was happy to find that the sleeper itself pulls out easily,” notes one reviewer, who also shares that they were pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the mattress is. “And the slipcovered exterior adjusts nicely to the transition when being opened. This is honestly a great sofa—casual yet elegant and at an affordable price.”

How We Chose These Products

A sleeper sofa is not a nonchalant purchase. It’s a sofa, it’s a bed, and it’s a serious investment. To compile this list, we exclusively shopped brands we trust that consistently produce high-quality pieces of furniture. That way you can feel confident that any of these options would become an indispensable part of your home’s design for the long term. Any of these sleeper sofas would be a cool and comfortable addition to your home today, and just as cool and comfortable years from now. 

Our Shopping Checklist

Size

Whether you’re shopping for a sleeper sofa to sneak into a tiny office space or one that will be the centerpiece of a grand living room, you have many choices. We shopped for a variety of sleeper sofas in a variety of sizes. Some are twin size, others feature a king-size mattress, and many offer options in the middle.

Durability

The best sofa brands strive for long-lasting comfort, and we would expect the same from any sleeper sofa we’d consider buying. “With sleeper sofas, it’s all about the mechanism,” says Conner. “You want good hardware. That’s what will fail the quickest if it’s not quality.” Hardware that can withstand frequent conversions—and also converts easily!—topped our shopping checklist, and it should be at the top of your priority list, too. 

Customizable

Customization is key to getting the exact look that you’ll love for years to come. Shop for sleeper sofas that allow you to choose the upholstery and even the length of the sofa. That’s what we did.  

Design

Nowadays there’s no reason to settle for a snoozy sleeper sofa. (Hopefully we proved that with this list.) Invest in a forward-thinking design that features a cool silhouette, arm style, leg shape, fabric—or all of the above. 

Comfort

“There is still a stigma that sleeper sofas are uncomfortable,” says Cole. “Many people cringe and think of that back-breaking bar found in older models.” That’s not the case anymore, though, so prioritize comfort. Well-made sleeper sofas include supportive mattresses as well as a platform bed mechanism that provides a level and barless sleeping surface. Your overnight guests will thank you.

Ask Domino

Q: How much space do you need for a sleeper sofa?

Whatever sleeper sofa you’re considering, keep a close eye on its dimensions, both of the sofa as is and when it’s fully extended into a bed. “You’ll want a minimum of 24 inches between the foot of the opened bed to the wall or another piece of furniture,” says Christopher. That way you and your guests won’t be hitting your shins on the corner of your coffee table when shuffling out of bed. As with any big furniture purchase, measure—and then measure again. 

Q: Can you put a mattress topper on a sleeper sofa?

Definitely! “There are a huge variety of mattress toppers out there, not just the old egg-crate style,” says Cole. Do you prefer memory foam, gel foam, wool, microfiber, or down? Depending on the topper you choose, you may not have to worry about finding a place to store it while the bed is tucked away either. “They are flexible enough to use on a sleeper sofa, and most can even fold up within the sofa,” she adds. 

Q: What’s the difference between a sleeper sofa and a sofa bed?

The phrases are so similar that it’s easy to use them interchangeably. There’s a major difference between the two, though. “A sleeper sofa has a dedicated mattress that folds into the frame of the sofa when not in use, and it has separate cushions that are used when sitting on the sofa,” explains Cole. “A sofa bed or futon uses a single cushion for both sleeping and sitting, so you sleep and sit on the same surface.” 

The Last Word

A design-forward sleeper sofa should be the best of both worlds: a couch you’ll feel comfortable kicking your feet up on, as well as a bed on which you and your guests can grab a good night’s sleep. Don’t settle for less. 

The post No Guest Bedroom? No Need With One of the Best Sleeper Sofas appeared first on domino.

Robby and Lauren Simon have a saying: “When you’re home, you’re with your family. And when you’re with your family, you’re home.” The phrase was one the couple told themselves on repeat during their two-year-long kitchen renovation. “It’s one of those made-up, Olive Garden sayings, but it’s essentially like, things don’t have to be perfect. It just has to be home,” says Robby. 

When the Simons bought their split-level home in Atlanta in February 2020, it was clear the kitchen hadn’t been touched since the 1980s. The couple focused on the things that could easily be changed with a little bit of elbow grease (the dark wood cabinets and fluorescent light box) and learned to live with the things that couldn’t, like the galley layout and travertine tiled floors. “In a dream world I would have put in Fireclay tile, but this isn’t our forever home,” notes Lauren. While she acted as project manager during the remodel, Robby took on the role of woodworker and even turned his cabinet- and furniture-making hobby into a full-fledged side hustle (by day, he works at Mailchimp; by night he runs Play.room). 

In the end, the pair estimates they spent less than $10,000 on the transformation. Ahead, they share the updates that, at the very least, made it feel like home. 

Leave Your IKEA Cabinets As Is 

The Simons measured the existing lower cabinetry to a T and then ventured to their local IKEA to put an order in for the black Kungsbacka cupboards, with no intentions to swap out the hardware or hack the door fronts. With the help of their handy friend, Mike, they cut the butcher block countertops (also IKEA) down to size. “Lauren built every one of those cabinets—she could be a TaskRabbit,” Robby says with a laugh. Even though they were a major cost saver, they’ve held up nicely considering they are constantly being opened and touched by their 6-year-old son and 6-month-old daughter. 

Make the Most Out of a Bad Vent Situation

While Robby now sells cool credenzas and consoles on his brand’s site, the first cabinet he ever made sits above the vent hood. He created the unit solely out of necessity after learning that they had to replace the old microwave–slash–range hood, which was apparently venting inside the house. Their new ductless hood needed something to attach to. “I thought, if I’m going to do it, I might as well make it look cool,” he says. The piece is made out of a combination of walnut-veneer plywood and solid walnut. 

Paint It Twice If It Doesn’t Look Nice

Lauren also shares Robby’s let’s-just-go-for-it attitude. One day, when he was out of the house, she decided to remove the doorframe and then posed the idea of turning it into an arch once he got home. “He said, you just made so much more work for me. And I was like, we have to do it now—we don’t have a door,” she says slyly. When it came to painting the walls in the space, their first instinct was green, so they went for it. “But we could tell it wasn’t right,” she says. Lauren, the designated painter at that point, shifted gears to a soft peachy pink, and later on they swapped the light box for a PH5 pendant lamp that perfectly matched the color. 

Ask the Hardware Store for Help

The dining nook bench was another first for Robby—and he didn’t even own the proper saw for it at the time. Instead he went to Home Depot and had them cut down pieces of plywood and 2-by-4s to his specifications and then screwed it together at home. “Our long-term plan is to make a cushion for it,” he says.

Type Your Wildest Dreams Into the Search Bar

When it comes to finding cool thrifted pieces, Robby says Lauren has all the luck. “She will go into a Goodwill and literally find a Mario Bellini couch,” he says with a laugh. But his turn came when he decided to type “vintage snake handles” into Google on a whim and found exactly what he was looking for on Etsy. The cobra pulls, which now adorn the pantry, are Justina Blakeney–approved. Lauren posted a photo of the cabinet on Instagram and tagged the designer in it, crediting her for the inspiration—and Blakeney shared it. “I was like, I’ve made it,” says Lauren.

Get the Appliances That Make Life Easier

Toward the end of the reno, the Simons splurged big: all new appliances. “The fridge that was there before stuck out into the hallway. It was so deep,” recalls Robby. The challenge wasn’t landing on what brand to buy (they loved LG’s streamlined look and reasonable price point) but rather getting the appliances into the house. The oven and refrigerator were at least 300 pounds and required the help of five other people. 

Once they were in the kitchen, Robby handled all the hookups (his friend told him about Plumber’s Putty, a waterproof seal that turned out to be necessary for installing the oven). “The stove is crazy…you knock on it and a light turns on,” says Robby, “and the fridge makes regular ice, crushed ice, and whiskey balls.” After a two-year reno, a chilled cocktail is a welcome reward. 

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