Lifestyle
Our 1,000 Sq. Foot Addition Is Principally One Large Kitchen—Here is Why
Once we initially determined so as to add 1,000 sq. ft to our Malibu beach house as a part of the renovation, I mentally divvied it up into varied elements of the home: extending the first suite, possibly including on a brand new rest room and closet, increasing the kitchen. That kind of factor. So, once I laid eyes on our architect Doug Burdge’s first draft of our renovation plans, I used to be stunned that he’d put all of our further sq. footage into one house, which he dubbed “The Nice Room.” Upon larger examination, it turned out to be one large open kitchen with a hearth on one finish. Huh.
Although my preliminary response was shock (“Are we certain that’s the most effective use of house?”), Doug’s plan revealed what I think about to be a really fashionable method to structure—designing with our wants and private values first, even when that meant throwing out a couple of expectations within the course of.
Since our household’s high precedence is to create an environment for connection and making individuals really feel welcome, what higher solution to foster that sense of togetherness than by way of one large open room that’s made for gathering? The extra I regarded by way of my inspiration pictures and envisioned the household holidays and dinners with friends on this home, the extra excited I obtained in regards to the house.
So, let’s begin with a take a look at the home’s present kitchen, to offer you an thought of the less-than-ideal circumstances we’re working with (and why we’re ranging from scratch with it.)
Right here is the present kitchen:
The current bungalow kitchen is wedged into a corner of the back of the house. When I’m cooking or doing dishes, my back is turned to anyone else in the room. Overall it has a closed-off feeling that’s not conducive to my style of cooking, which is all about casually conversing with Adam or my kids while I chop.
I have a long-held dream of a massive kitchen window above the sink that floods the room with sunshine.
It’s a design element I’ve never had in a house that I’ve lived in, hence why my “Dream Kitchen” Pinterest board is covered in huge kitchen windows.
And now, for the new Great Room addition—I’ll lead with the visuals to give you an idea of what we’re envisioning, and then I’ll explain. Here is the interior rendering—note that colors and finishes aren’t accurate yet, but this shows the space:
I can’t wait until the day when I’m prepping for dinner with the music turned up, glass of wine in hand, and ocean breezes blowing in through the open doors.
Here are a few of the key elements that we’ve carved out for this space:
Wall of doors that fully opens
I think that every house should have one element that makes a major statement. It’s the design moment that, if guests remember little else, at least they won’t forget it. In our beach house project, the 30-foot wall of pocket doors that open straight to the outside is, without a doubt, that statement. Since one of the reasons we’re drawn to Southern California is the ability to spend 12 months of the year outside, one of our top priorities is creating a natural flow between the indoors and out. All of our windows and doors are coming from Marvin, and I’m actually excited in regards to the stunning wood-framed alternatives we’re going with.
PHOTO: inspiration image from our home tour with jodie fried
Plus, this seamless transition enables us to turn the covered terrace into an outdoor dining room that will feel like part of the great room space. No, it’s not a conventional approach to a dining room, but for a family that loves to eat as many meals outdoors as possible, it works.
Oversized kitchen island
The Great Room’s focal point is a 13-foot kitchen island that at first felt almost too big, but upon further investigation, is scaled just right in context with the size of this room. This is a hardworking island that will more than earn its keep—not only will it be the central gathering place for kitchen prep and casual dining, but it will also house the cooktop and main sink, plus tons of storage. The interior side of the island will have deep drawers where we’ll keep everything from plates and bowls to flatware. The side facing outward will have open shelving for cookbooks and display objects on the corners with space for barstools in the center. Since the rest of the kitchen has minimal cabinetry, we’re relying on this island to hold a lot.
PHOTO: kitchen island inspo from our home tour with Brian and Jessie De Lowe
Fireplace to anchor the room
Since we’re not adding a designated “living room” to the house, we’ve carved out one end of the great room as the area where we’ll cozy up with a glass of wine and a good book. And there’s nothing like a fireplace to welcome everyone to kick up their feet —plus it’s a design element that will provide clear differentiation between the “cooking” part of the room and the “relaxing” part of the room, even though they won’t be separated by an actual wall. We’re planning to position a round table surrounded by low-slung chairs in front of the fire—an inviting spot for a cozy dinner for two or game night with the kids.
Beverage station
I wanted to design the more “lounge-y” side of the great room (near the fireplace) in a way that flowed with the kitchen, but didn’t feel like you were still in the kitchen. However, since we traded in most of our upper cabinetry for a massive kitchen window (more on that below), we needed all the extra storage we could get. So, I designated the wall that runs perpendicular to the fireplace as a bar and beverage station. It will hold practical items like wine storage, coffeemaker, mugs, and glassware. And it will also feature more design-forward elements, like our vintage turntable and sculptural objects on the open shelving, to keep it from feeling too much like part of the kitchen.
And final however not least… I lastly get my large kitchen window!
As talked about, I’ve lengthy dreamed of a press release kitchen window that floods the house with sunshine. And never solely will our 10-foot extensive x 6-foot excessive window let in tons of pure gentle, however additionally it is a totally functioning slider that opens as much as the again patio. There will probably be a counter on the outside facet that’s excellent for serving drinks and passing meals to throw on the grill.
One design choice I’m nonetheless considering is what kind of tree to plant simply exterior this window. Because the visible point of interest to this room, it’s as essential to the design parts as any inside piece of artwork, so I’m approaching it with the identical stage of thoughtfulness. As of now, my high contenders are both a gnarly, twisting ornamental olive tree, or a lush citrus tree—simply think about with the ability to open up the window and pluck a ripe orange proper off the branches! It’s laborious to image something dreamier, however I’ll let you already know the place we find yourself.
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I simply received again from visiting my sister in Paris, and it’s secure to say my closet won’t ever be the identical. I arrived with a suitcase stuffed with polka dots, daring colours, and one-wear assertion items. However per week of café people-watching and cobblestone strolls later? I began gravitating towards extra genuine Paris vogue developments. Realizing the fashion is surprisingly approachable, I got here house able to fully shift the best way I’m approaching my fall wardrobe.
6 Paris Trend Developments to Encourage Your Fall Wardrobe
The longer I stayed, the extra I craved items that wouldn’t present up in all of my pals’ closets. I discovered a brand new want for staples that could possibly be styled a dozen other ways, somewhat than daring items I’d put on as soon as and tuck away. French vogue isn’t in regards to the over-the-top “Emily in Paris” model we see on display. It’s quiet, unfussy, and deeply intentional. What seems to be easy at first look is definitely layered with nuance: timeless items, considerate particulars, and an angle of effortlessness that may’t be purchased. And sure, usually styled with a cigarette in hand.
Skipping the cigs, let’s dive into the six Paris vogue developments I introduced house with me, and the items I’m gathering alongside the best way.
Heeled Ballet Flats
Sure, you learn that proper. Should you’re pondering, “the entire level of a ballet flat is to keep away from a heel,” I used to be proper there with you—till I landed in Paris. My sister, her pals, and seemingly each stylish woman on the road stepped out in ballet-inspired footwear with a refined pump. Particularly by the model Repetto, these footwear have been in all places—morning espresso runs, late-night drinks, and all the things in between. From what I gathered, the break-in interval will be brutal, however when you get previous it, you’ll by no means look again.
Chunky Silver Jewellery
As a tried-and-true dainty gold woman, one of many greatest Paris vogue developments that caught my eye was all the daring silver jewellery. Nearly each finger was stacked with chunky rings, usually set with burgundy, turquoise, or black stones. The look struck the proper stability between edgy and timeless—traditional Ralph Lauren with a contemporary twist. Better of all, these items don’t include an enormous price ticket, making this a straightforward development to hop on.
Trench Coats
If there’s one merchandise I regretted not packing, it was my trench coat. Even within the lingering heat of early fall, Parisians have been layering theirs over all the things from denim and button-downs to shorts and tees with loafers. The ditch actually is the best transitional coat—it goes with all the things and carries that easy, “I simply threw this on” vitality the French achieve this effectively. Whereas I really like the drama of a full-length model, cropped trenches are equally stylish for on a regular basis put on.
Classic-Impressed Trousers
My greatest takeaway from Paris vogue developments? Purchasing secondhand is très stylish. So most of the outfits I admired have been constructed round one-of-a-kind classic finds—like my sister’s roommate’s €10 trousers that match like they have been tailor-made for her. Past inspiring just a few fall purchases of my very own, this development shifted my mindset: curate a wardrobe of intentional, well-fitting items as a substitute of overconsuming quick vogue that not often lasts.
Delicate Blouses
For dinners in Paris, all I needed to put on was a fragile shirt—silk, lace, or ideally each. There’s one thing inherently French a few prime that feels female and attractive, but turns into unexpectedly laid-back when paired with tailor-made black trousers or informal classic denim. This fashion is on the tippy prime of my fall wishlist due to the limitless styling potentialities. Put on one solo whereas it’s nonetheless heat, layered over a white tee to make an announcement, or styled underneath a wool cardigan for only a trace of flirtiness.
Velvet Mary Janes
Meet the fabulous Flabelus flats. Say that thrice quick, then order your self a pair—as a result of if she wasn’t within the heeled Repettos, each French woman was in these velvet Mary Janes. Obtainable in practically each coloration of the rainbow and limitless variations, they gained me over rapidly. I used to be a bit hesitant on day one however obsessed by day six. Playful, stylish, and the proper means so as to add a pop of coloration or texture to your fall wardrobe, they’re an enormous Paris vogue development, however aren’t practically as prevalent stateside but. Get able to be the trendiest of all your pals.
The Takeaway
Paris jogged my memory that one of the best wardrobes aren’t constructed on fleeting developments, however on items that whisper as a substitute of shout—objects that layer seamlessly into your on a regular basis and evolve with you over time. This season, I’m favoring staples that really feel each timeless and recent, playful but endlessly versatile. Whether or not you’re reaching for heeled ballet flats, a classic pair of trousers, or a trench that makes each errand really feel like a second, take into account this your invitation to method your fall fashion with the identical easy intention of the French.
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I’ve all the time been a little bit obsessive about my sleep. Blame it on the bout of insomnia that hit me in center college and lingered into highschool, after I’d spend hours staring on the ceiling, counting sheep (after which recounting them). By faculty, I’d turn out to be the pal who left the occasion at 7:30 p.m. to start out my wind-down routine—zero all-nighters have been ever pulled, and I wore that reality like a badge of honor. My associates laughed, however I knew higher than to compromise the factor that fueled every little thing else in my life.
Quick-forward to my early thirties, and my obsession has solely deepened. I’ve learn the books, tried the apps, dimmed the lights, and examined each sleep hack the wellness world has to supply. Some labored, most didn’t. However via trial and error, I’ve discovered this: after I prioritize relaxation, every little thing else feels simpler—my morning exercise, my creativity, even the best way I present up for the folks I really like. Sleep actually is the inspiration for the remainder of it.
How a Sleep Retreat Reframed My Strategy to Relaxation
So after I checked into Hotel AKA Back Bay in Boston for his or her Sleep Expertise—a curated sleep retreat full with aromatherapy rollers, a pillow menu, a psychologist-approved sleep journal, and even a sound machine—I used to be curious. May a weekend devoted totally to relaxation reframe my relationship with sleep? What I found was greater than rest; it was a reset. And it gave me a handful of rituals I’ll be carrying into my nights at dwelling.
Checking Right into a Sleep Retreat
By the point I landed at Logan on a red-eye from Portland, Oregon, I used to be already working on fumes. My week forward promised to be the type of New England homecoming I all the time stay up for—Maine with my sister, a cease in New Hampshire, northern Vermont with my dad, and at last a number of cozy days in southern Vermont with my mother. However earlier than the street journey marathon might start, I wanted a reset. My physique craved extra than simply caffeine (although that was consumed in *aware* abundance). It wanted one thing deeper—an actual refresh earlier than the whirlwind of household visits started.
A House That Slows You Down
Moving into Lodge AKA Again Bay felt like dropping into one other rhythm totally. The interiors have been serene and cocoon-like, with muted tones, delicate lighting, and plush seating tucked into quiet corners. Flooring-to-ceiling home windows let within the late-afternoon glow, warming the smooth, minimal design. After the noise of TSA traces and the disorientation of a cross-country flight, the shift was rapid. It was as if the town’s bustle softened on the resort doorways, changed by a hush that invited you to decelerate.
Designed for Deep Relaxation
That sense of calm solely deepened after I bought to my room and found the Sleep Concierge, a menu of choices designed to anticipate each attainable barrier to relaxation. A pillow menu with choices from all the way down to reminiscence foam, aromatherapy diffusers with eucalyptus or chamomile, a weighted blanket for mild stress, even a sound machine with 42 soothing choices—the small print went far past luxurious. They created an area the place relaxation wasn’t simply attainable, however inevitable. The timing couldn’t have been higher—it gave me the reset I didn’t understand I wanted and inspired me to rethink my strategy to sleep at dwelling.
The Consolation Connection
One of the shocking classes of the weekend was how a lot consolation actually issues—and the way not often I take the time to personalize it. At dwelling, I are inclined to fall again on no matter pillow is closest, however experimenting with the resort’s pillow menu jogged my memory how a lot help could make or break my sleep. I discovered myself gravitating towards a contoured reminiscence foam choice that relieved neck pressure I didn’t even understand had been build up. Paired with a weighted blanket, the expertise felt grounding in a approach that left me calmer and extra comfortable as I drifted off. It was a reminder: investing in the correct bedding isn’t indulgent, it’s sensible self-care.
Creating the Situations for Relaxation
As I settled into the weekend, I began noticing how every ingredient of the expertise was designed with intention. It wasn’t nearly luxurious touches—it was about displaying how small, considerate particulars can rework the best way we relaxation. Right here’s what stood out, and the teachings I’ll be carrying with me.
Choices That Redefined Relaxation
The identical reality held with the small however highly effective “aids” that supported the room’s ambiance. A sound machine that changed the hum of the town with ocean waves, a diffuser that crammed the air with chamomile, even a yoga mat ready for mild stretches—all of it labored collectively to create an surroundings the place relaxation got here extra naturally. At dwelling, I don’t want each instrument, however I’ve began leaning into the concept that sensory cues matter. A quiet playlist, dimmed lighting, or the delicate scent of lavender can sign to my physique that it’s time to transition into sleep.
Rituals That Restore
Even the nightly rituals reframed how I take into consideration winding down. As a substitute of dashing via a skincare routine and collapsing into mattress, I slowed down with a cup of natural tea and some pages of a sleep journal. The act of writing about and reflecting on my day grew to become a approach of closing out the night, like drawing a curtain between the day’s calls for and the promise of relaxation. Sleep isn’t simply what occurs after the lights go off—it’s formed by the rituals main as much as that second.
Sleep isn’t one thing to squeeze in as soon as every little thing else is completed—it’s the start line that makes the remainder of life really feel fuller, lighter, and extra aligned.
The Sleep Practices I’m Taking Residence
What struck me most in regards to the Sleep Expertise was how seamlessly its classes translated past the resort room. I didn’t simply come away feeling rested—I left with small, tangible shifts I might carry into my on a regular basis life. Listed below are the takeaways I’ve already began weaving into my nights at dwelling.
Rituals Over Routines
If there’s one shift I’m carrying into my nights at dwelling, it’s slowing down sufficient to create rituals as a substitute of dashing via routines. Whether or not that’s steeping chamomile tea, jotting a number of reflections in a journal, or doing a wind-down yoga stream, these cues sign to my physique that the day is completed. These rituals don’t need to be elaborate—what issues is consistency and intention.
Atmosphere Shapes Sleep
Our environment play a much bigger position in sleep than we give them credit score for. At dwelling, I don’t want a full pillow menu or spa-level facilities, however investing in higher bedding, holding the bed room cool, and introducing small sensory cues—lavender on the nightstand, a delicate, instrumental playlist—makes deeper relaxation extra possible. It’s about eradicating friction and creating an area the place sleep feels inviting.
Sleep as On a regular basis Wellness
Above all, I got here dwelling with a reframe: sleep isn’t simply restoration, it’s a each day observe that helps each different a part of wellness. Identical to nourishing meals or motion, it deserves care and intention. Fascinated about relaxation this manner has shifted it from one thing I “ought to” prioritize to one thing I stay up for—a supply of vitality, readability, and presence I can carry into the day.
The Takeaway
My keep jogged my memory that sleep isn’t one thing to squeeze in as soon as every little thing else is completed—it’s the start line that makes the remainder of life really feel fuller, lighter, and extra aligned. I could not have a Sleep Concierge ready at dwelling, however I do have the instruments to create an area and routine that helps the type of relaxation I crave. I’ll all the time look again on that sleep retreat as a reset, however the deeper shift was recognizing that nourishing sleep is one thing I can domesticate each night time.
In search of extra methods to help your personal relaxation? Discover our favourite ideas and rituals, from foods that help you sleep to wind-down routines and circadian resets.
Candy potatoes are my desert island meals. Not solely do I eat them nearly on daily basis, however I seldom get uninterested in them. This implies in my kitchen lineup, wholesome candy potato recipes are usually simple to search out. At lunch, I’ll steam one and cargo it up with chickpeas and Greek yogurt. For dinner, I’m all a few roasted candy potato filled with black beans and avocado. And sure—I’ve even had one for breakfast, topped with cinnamon and a drizzle of brown butter. No disgrace.
16 Simple and Wholesome Candy Potato Recipes You’ll Love
That’s the great thing about candy potatoes: they’re crave-worthy and endlessly versatile. To me, fall feels just like the official begin of candy potato season. It’s the time to lean into cozy, hearty dishes that permit them shine. Because the climate cools, I discover myself craving slow-roasted flavors, warming spices, and all of the consolation meals that candy potatoes do finest. Past style, they’re wealthy in fiber, help intestine and immune well being, and even profit your imaginative and prescient. A real multitasker.
Get able to bookmark these wholesome candy potato recipes. You’ll wish to make them on repeat all season lengthy.
Greek Yogurt & Candy Potato Savory Breakfast Bowl
We will’t get sufficient of savory breakfast bowls—they’re filling, protein-packed, and loaded with vitamins. On mornings when eggs simply aren’t calling your identify, this recipe is the proper swap. With creamy Greek yogurt, crunchy seeds, and roasted candy potatoes, it’s a satisfying begin that retains you fueled all day.
Loaded Candy Potato Fries
Crispy candy potato fries piled excessive together with your favourite toppings make for the final word consolation meals—nonetheless indulgent, however with a recent, more healthy twist.
Sheet Pan Candy Potato and Chickpea Bowl
Roasted on a single sheet pan, this straightforward bowl is full of protein, taste, and vibrant colours. It’s a meal-prep dream that makes wholesome consuming streamlined and easy.
Candy Potato Harvest Hash
Cubes of candy potato are tossed with seasonal veggies and herbs for a hearty skillet that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner (or all the above!).
Charred Candy Potatoes With Dates & Arugula
A great char elevates the flavour profile of a dish. Right here, smoky candy potatoes pair superbly with candy dates and peppery arugula for a recent but hearty salad.
Candy Potato Crostini
These bite-sized beauties make for the final word get together starter. Elegant, easy, and completely addicting, they’re the type of appetizer that disappears in minutes. No bread, no downside.
Roasted Candy Potatoes With Whipped Feta and Scorching Honey
I nonetheless haven’t left my whipped feta period, and including it to candy roasted potatoes with a drizzle of scorching honey makes this recipe’s hero ingredient even higher. These spuds are fancy sufficient for company however simple sufficient for Tuesday night time dinner.
Crispy Roasted Candy Potatoes
Completely caramelized on the surface and tender on the within, these roasted candy potatoes are the proper weeknight meal. They’re easy, foolproof, and irresistible straight off the pan.
Candy Potato Toasts
Transfer over, French bread—crispy candy potato slices are your new nutrient-packed base on your favourite spreads and toppings. For breakfast, snack, or as a light-weight lunch, they’re as versatile as they’re scrumptious.
Savory Stuffed Candy Potatoes
These stuffed candy potatoes commerce sweetness for daring, savory fillings that make them a full meal. Simple to customise, they’re weeknight staples you’ll flip to recurrently all through the autumn.
Candy Potato Falafel Veggie Burger
Crispy on the surface and tender inside, these falafel-inspired burgers are a plant-based powerhouse. Filled with taste and protein, they’ll win over even the meat lovers (talking from expertise).
Bacon, Apple, & Candy Potato Pizza
This pizza layers candy and smoky bacon, tart apple, and caramelized candy potato for a taste profile that screams fall. Your pizza night time simply received an improve.
Candy Potato Gnocchi with Wild Mushrooms, Brown Butter, and Sage
Pillowy gnocchi meet earthy mushrooms and nutty brown butter for a restaurant-quality meal proper from the consolation of your dinner desk. You’ll be obsessive about each wealthy and comfy chunk.
Candy Potato & Black Bean Chili
This chili is smoky, spicy, and stuffed with plant-based protein—hearty sufficient to fulfill even essentially the most conventional Texas chili lover. It’s a one-pot recipe made for cozying up on a cold night time.
Autumn Stuffed Candy Potatoes
Full of cozy seasonal flavors, these candy potatoes are the final word fall consolation meals: hearty sufficient for a principal dish, indulgent but nourishing on the identical time.
Spiced Candy Potato Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting
Candy potatoes actually can do all of it. With heat spices and tender crumb, this cake is the type of cozy dessert that feels excellent when the temps dip. Completed with tangy cream cheese frosting, it’s a lighter twist on consolation that also delivers all the autumn taste.
This put up was final up to date on October 2, 2025, to incorporate new insights.
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