Your home should be a gentleman’s retreat that invites friends and family, or even better, your Saturday night date, to come in and bask in the depth of your fascinating personality thanks to your impressive home decor. Each piece in your apartment should be a unique conversation starter that showcases your love of your hobbies, your favorite books, or interesting facts that you love to discuss.

After all, your home is more than just a place to sleep, it’s a reflection of everything that makes you, well, you. Your choice of background pieces, interior design, and forefront displays almost say more about you than you can say about yourself.

This list of interesting apartment decorations for guys is tailored to cover a wide range of styles and tastes to give you the most inspiration possible to create a masculine vibe. You can use the guide to help you transform your humble and boring studio apartment or bachelor pad into a luxurious getaway that displays both your style and status. Choose between steampunk designs and simple wooden displays, functional furniture, whimsical art, or a modern coffee table.

Is your apartment missing out on macho? Are you needing a few tips for sleek and classy decor? Perhaps your apartment has all the warmth of a newly sterilized surgical suite? Whatever your need, we will help you find some of the most interesting accents available so you can share your personality with all who enter your home. Whether you’re a fan of nautical adventures, classic sci-fi, or 1940s cinema, this list will have something to suit your taste and style.

30 Apartment Decorations for Guys

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1. 48 Inche Wood Airplane Prop

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Love the aviation look? Then you’ll like this cherry wood brown wood airplane prop by Deco 79. With an antique charm, faded red stripes, and raise black center bolts this propeller adds a touch of masculine decor to any guy’s apartment. Each arrives with a generous length of 48 inches and a width of 5 inches.

2. Abbott Collection Small Gold Twig Wall Hook

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It’s hard to imagine a classier way to hang your keys or display your small trinkets. Measuring a little over half a foot, it would look stunning displayed above your Torre & Tagus Twisted Branch Antique Bronze Tree in a way that really ties the room together.

3. Abstract Canvas Wall Art

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No guy’s apartment is complete without some cool abstract canvas art on the wall. Let’s face it though, it’s tough finding artwork that isn’t too feminine or too bizarre. And if you adult, things like posters of superheroes, cars, and half-naked models, like the ones used to have a college, just like a cut it.

Luckily a little class and fine art aren’t going to cost you too much. Take for instance the Giclee print by Wall 26, at 32” x 48” this piece is rather affordable when you consider it under a hundred dollars and comes with a generous size.

4. Aviation Aluminium Egg Chair

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Add an iconic piece to your apartment interior with the aluminum chair by English Classics. Each arrives with a handsome aluminum aviation frame and supple leather finish. It’s perfect for any gentleman looking for a mix between modern and retro. And while the style swings back and forth in time, so does the chair itself. Each features a 360° rotating action alongside back-and-forth tilting.

5. Creative Co-Op Hand Carved Mango Wooden Dice

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Do you like to gamble? Or perhaps you just want to show off your love of quantum physics by hinting that God really does play dice with the universe? Your friends will love these oversized brown and black solid wooden dice by Creative Co-Op for the Urban Homestead collection.

6. Metal Earth Brooklyn Bridge 3D Metal Model

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Nothing says New York like the Brooklyn Bridge, and now you can bring New York home to you. At just 14 inches tall, the steel replica comes completely assembled, so you can set it up and enjoy it right away.

7. Eames Lounge Chair

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When it comes to creating the ultimate bachelor pad, man cave, or apartment, there are a few items that can top the classic Eames lounge chair. The style is, quite simply put, unforgettable to all wondering eyes.

Each arrives with a beautiful wood grain finish alongside handsome soft leather for the ultimate comfort. Now, there are a lot of reproductions out there making it rather difficult to find one that’s really well-made. That’s why you can’t go past Herman Miller who delivers big on craftsmanship without costing you a pretty penny.

8. LEGO Empire State Building

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Good things do come in small packages. This LEGO miniature of the Empire State Building stands at just over 23 inches but packs all the classy style of downtown New York into your living room. Comprising 1,993 pieces, this is a challenging LEGO set that will bring you much joy once complete.

9. Faux Fur Throw Blanket

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Meet the throw blanket on steroids. This giant throw is absolutely no joke when it comes to manly decorations. In fact, it will most likely be one of the best purchases you ever make.

Not only does it look luxurious, but it’s also downright incredibly comfortable and comes in a wide range of colors, including Arctic Blue, Chocolate, Teal, and Dark Red. It makes for a great decoration for any sofa or bed.

10. Home Organizer Tech Art Half Face Statue

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Partially inspired by Salvador Dali and partly by the Twilight Zone, you can sit and look at this piece from every different angle for hours and never get bored. There is something about this abstract sculpture that lovingly invites you to trip out on its weird outline while trying to figure out just what you are seeing. It makes for a great decoration in any man’s study or living room.

11. Hunter Retro Fan

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Why just use any old fan to cool down on a hot day when you can use a retro room accent? Just one look at this matte black finish vintage fan will take you back to the days of the old-school detective agency. You can imagine you are Mike Hammer waiting for the dame in distress to walk through the door while you cool off in style. And if black isn’t your color, there are several other options available to fit your decor.

12. Decorative Armillary

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This decorative armillary sphere gives tribute to the wonderful world of astronomy while showing your love of fine art. It is a beautifully crafted piece that is a unique replica of the tools that our ancient forefathers used to track the movement of the planets and sun across our sky.

13. Industrial Crate With Metal Frame

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This tiny industrial crate with a metal frame wood planter box is an ideal way to display items you like, house candles or hold small plants while showing your rustic Grizzly Adams side. The light, barn-style wood looks great with any background while the metal frame adds a touch of modernity to keep things interesting.

14. NBA Poster Bundle

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If there is one thing every modern man’s apartment needs, it’s some form of wall art. If you are a basketball fan then you can’t go wrong with this three-poster NBA bundle. The collection includes posters of NBA greats Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kobe Bryant along with their playing career statistics in a retro style that will look incredible in any room of the house.

Just note, the images are digital, so once you make the purchase you will be sent a JPG file which you can download and then frame yourself.

15. Customizable Wood Bar Sign

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Home bar need sprucing up? Get yourself one of these customizable wood bar signs and let everyone know whose bar it is. Available in a wide range of styles and designs, you can get any sort of message you want carved into a sign and display it proudly above your home bar.

16. Marine Searchlight

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Practical meets industrial chic with this classy floor lamp. This handmade replica of a 1940s marine searchlight is an affordable way to add a statement piece to any room. Choose two or three for a black and white movie set feel or one for your living room window so you can “keep the light on” to guide your friends to safe harbor.

17. Black And Gold Iron Decorative Sphere

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This sculpture is reminiscent of the sphere that Atlas holds in front of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Perhaps when he shrugged it landed in your living room? The black bands of this sphere are touched with gold where they intersect to add even more dimensional depth to this already visually engaging piece. A great statement piece for any living space.

18. Wall Hanging Lifebuoy

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Sometimes you just have to jump ship and go nautical. This lifebuoy will showcase your love of sailing so beautifully that you can almost smell the salt spray on its natural rope and worn white and red finish. It fits beautifully on a bookcase right next to your antique hardback copy of Moby Dick or on a free wall over your sofa.

19. Forest Wall Tapestry

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If you are training on your rock wall and counting the days till you can knock Mount Everest off your bucket list, this is the wall hanging for you. The picturesque tapestry will fill your vision with a breathtaking mountain vista while you enjoy your morning cup of coffee and dream of scaling your next peak.

20. Thinker Statue

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Everyone should have a replica of “The Thinker.” Originally designed to be placed in front of a doorway surround called “The Gates of Hell,” Rodin’s classic sculpture is designed to be gazed at from below as it perches on an elevated surface.

Not only is this replica of the famous statue an amazing piece of art, but it shows your guests you are a deep thinker with an interest in art and culture.

21. Bang & Olufsen A9 Fourth Generation Stand Up Speaker

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You need a good speaker in your living room and they don’t get much better than this beauty from Bang & Olufsen. This three-leg design speaker has Wi-Fi connectivity and customizable sound EQ and not only sounds great but looks fabulous in any corner of your room.

22. White Marble Bookends

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Keep a collection of books organized with MyGift’s cool triangle white marble bookends. Each arrives with a polished, mirror-like finish and securely holds up to eight pounds of books. While this decorative item may be smaller in size, it is certainly big on luxurious style. Of course, if you’re not into the marble finish, you can always elect to go with a pair of agate bookends for a more natural look.

23. Blue Wooden Crates

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These nesting wooden crates can be stacked away in a small space when you don’t need them, but they look just as beautiful on display. Whether empty or full of knick-knacks or fine fruit, the galvanized metal trim on these boxes brings out the natural luster of the wood to bring ambiance to your room.

24. Tree Stump Side Table

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Straight from the design inspiration of pioneers from centuries past, this cedar wood and metal end table gives you points for style and recycling. Each table is beautiful and unique because the wooden top is made from reclaimed cedar stumps. Polished to perfection with a natural lacquer finish, your stylish table will last for years.

25. Warm Tabacco Pipe Candle

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Living room smelling a little too manly? Bedroom starting to be on the nose? One way to solve this problem is by lighting a few candles and giving your home a welcoming aroma. This warm tobacco pipe candle will give your home a masculine scent and send the ladies wild.

26. Pistol Whiskey Decanter Set

Every man needs a decanter set in their home, but if you want to stand out with something unique, then this is the item for you. Shaped like a pistol, it allows you to live like James Bond as you knock back a quiet tipple after a hard day at work.

27. Cantilever Arc Floor Lamp

Add a touch of charm to your living space with this cantilever arc floor lamp. This vintage overhanging lamp creates an air of ambience thanks to its natural light that provides a warm glow. Durable and stylish, this floor lamp from SURAIELEC is also easy to assemble and gives your abode a little extra character.

28. Triangle Billiard Wall Clock

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Every men’s apartment should have a wall clock somewhere, and instead of your standard circular hanging clock, why not go for one that draws a bit of attention to the room it is in? That’s where the triangle billiard wall clock comes into play.

This creative clock is the shape of a triangle with each billiard positioned as a number of the clock. Made from a solid wood frame, this battery-powered clock will look good in a study, living room, or game room and is sure to get a lot of attention from visitors.

29. Yoobure Tree Bookshelf

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Nobody wants a boring bookshelf to show off their collection of classic titles. Instead, get yourself an attractive centerpiece like this Yoobure tree bookshelf. This wooden bookshelf combines modern materials with a retro look and includes six shelves with a small base space for extra storage.

30. Full Length Mirror

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Every home needs a full-length mirror so you can take the perfect selfie. This mirror has dimensions of 65″ x 22″ and can be positioned horizontally or vertically, is easy to install, and is very durable.

From enchanting shoe closets that could rival the allure of Narnia’s wardrobe, to gravity-defying shelves that seem to dance on air, prepare to be swept off your feet by a whirlwind of inventive and oh-so-creative solutions. Bid farewell to the days of tangled laces and mismatched pairs reluctantly shoved into cramped corners. Embrace the possibility of a shoe storage utopia that not only keeps your beloved collection in pristine condition but also elevates your living space to new heights of aesthetic wonder.

So, lace up your imagination and join us on this fantastical journey as we explore the enchanting world of shoe storage, where the ordinary becomes extraordinary and every step brings a touch of magic to your daily life. Are you ready to dive headfirst into the realm of shoe storage dreams? Let the adventure begin!

19 Innovative Shoe Storage Ideas

1. Shoe Shelf With Bench 

Try an innovative shoe shelf with a bench instead of a mundane old shoe mat. It combines comfort with convenience and is ideal for storing shoes while also working as a functional bench and decor. They come in various styles but are excellent for storing shoes of all sizes. Stylish, fun, and offering somewhere to sit, a shoe shelf with a bench is a great way to spruce up a room.

2. Shoe Shelf With Silicone Mats

Unsurprisingly, shoe racks have a way of getting messy and dirty. Shoes often attract all kinds of dirt and mud. That’s why so many homes try a shoe shelf with silicone mats. They catch the dirt, keeping the area as clean as possible while protecting your kicks.

3. Dark Wood Shoe Rack

Add character, style, and class to your house with an elegant dark wood shoe rack. It’ll raise the level of your decor with a subtle yet charming appeal. It’s an efficient method for shoe storage with multiple shelves to keep the shoes organized, clean, and neat. 

4. Tiered Enclosed Shoe Cabinet 

It’s common to have more shoes than space. That’s when a tiered enclosed shoe cabinet works out as the perfect solution. These creative storage options take up little space and are movable, allowing you to place them in any room around the house.

They also come in various designs, both vertical and horizontal, depending on the space. This type of shoe storage option is ideal for all types of shoe sizes and large families with a lot of shoes. 

5. Boots Shoe Rack

Boots often create an interesting problem. They’re usually long, take up a lot of space, and have an odd design. Boots have a way of messing up a shoe rack. A simple solution is to purchase an all-boot rack. Boot racks store the shoes in a stylish way and will keep the boots safe, avoiding a big tangled mess. 

6. Repurposed Cabinet

A repurposed cabinet is an excellent way to save money and create an original decor piece. There’s a good chance you’ll be the only person on the block with this type of shoe cabinet. Repaint and distress the cabinet to give it a stylish and rustic look. Since old cabinets usually have a lot of containers, there will be more than enough space for all your shoes. It’s a fun project that’ll make your shoe cabinet the “walk of the town.”

7. Multi-Purpose Entryway Rack

A multi-purpose entryway rack adds class and style to every house. It’s cool, chic, functional, efficient, and simplifies organizing. It has a shelf for shoes and hooks for jackets, hats, and bags. Extra shoe shelves are a great place to store other household items such as books, decor, or accessories. 

8. Built-In Shoe Closet

Small spaces pose many obstacles for homeowners. Shoe storage can be quite a headache when there is little space. A built-in shoe closet can solve that shoe headache within seconds. It frees up a lot of space while adding cool and creative decor to any room.

Additionally, built-in shoe storage reduces clutter while enhancing the openness of the room. Many have cool designs that fit in any room of your house, adding style and creativity. 

9. Closet Door Shoe Rack

The closet door shoe rack is easily the most efficient way to store shoes. In theory, the closet is one of the most organized places in a house. Mounting the shoe rack on the door will keep your shoes clean and organize the closet. It’ll keep everything out of the way while still being easily accessible. 

10. Recessed Shelf

Nowadays, most people have a pair of sneakers, snow boots, fancy kicks, or gym shoes cluttering up their room. This is why people need more space for storage. One option, a recessed shelf, is perfect for large families or people with a ton of footwear.

It makes excellent use of the area by allowing you to store twice as many shoes. It also takes up little space and adds chic and functional decor to the room. A recessed shelf allows for ample space for various shoe sizes and styles. The shelf is the ideal decor for a small space while adding style too. 

11. Shoe Shelf With Counter Space

Many people like to keep their shoes by the door. Since that’s the case, most homes enjoy adding another element to use the space best. For example, a shoe shelf with counter space is chic while freeing up space.

The counter is perfect for storing keys or leaving notes. The extra space will allow you to get creative without worrying about shoes getting in the way. Plus, the shelf is perfect for decorating the room by adding some character. 

12. Shoe Hangers

Take efficient shoe organizing to new places with shoe hangers. Shoe hangers eliminate the need for storage space or boxes. Simply hang your favorite shoes on your wall with mounts. It makes for cool decor, requires minimal setup, and takes up zero floor or wall space. 

13. Doorway Shoe Shelf

Lots of people like to store their shoes near the front door, especially those who don’t like people walking through their house with shoes on. This is why a doorway shoe self is one of the easiest storage options.

They work best in a small apartment or condo that has limited space. The doorway shoe shelf adds style but is often compact. They fit perfectly next to any doorway, taking the decor to new levels.

Another great option is to place the shelf next to the couch. It’ll change the way you put your shoes on. No longer will you need to stand awkwardly against the wall to put on your favorite Jordans. 

14. Vertical Shoe Rack 

Get creative with shoe storage ideas with the vertical shoe rack. The vertical shoe rack is hugely popular and comes in different sizes, designs, and styles. The vertical shoe rack is ideal for a small space and for organizing various shoe types. 

15. Tiered Wall Shelf 

Have a lot of shoes lying around on top of each other? Need a solution fast? Well, look no further than tiered wall shelves. They’ll change the way you store shoes forever.

A tiered wall shelf makes excellent use of vertical space, giving the illusion of ample room. It’s a creative and efficient way to store shoes to decrease clutter. It adds a neat slice of decor to the room without taking up a lot of space. It also makes organizing and selecting shoes much more accessible. It’s impossible to go wrong with a tiered wall shelf. 

16. Shoe Rack With Enclosed Crates

A shoe rack with enclosed crates will change how you store your shoes. The design adds character and chic to any doorway. It’ll always keep your shoes neat, clean, and organized. The crates are big enough for every style and on top of that, the shoe rack slides into any closet or corner. Brilliant.

17. Layered Shelves 

There are several creative ways to store shoes. It’s always great to repurpose an old piece of furniture. However, a new style is repurposing and mismatching old shoe racks. It’s a custom shoe rack that’ll free up lots of space while adding a unique style to the place.

Layered shelves allow you to get a shelf for each shoe design. Stack multiple shelves on top of each other to create a stunning shoe rack tower. The finished product will be a unique piece of decor nobody else owns. You can store rain boots, work shoes, and casual and summer footwear.

18. Shelf Compartment With Coat Hooks

There’s always a solution for a cluttered and small space. A shelf compartment with coat hooks is perfect for a family with many little kids. It’s an open space that adds style and character.

It’s accessible, gives the illusion of a larger area, and adds style and convenience. It’ll keep your shoes and jackets off the floor while at the same time is easy for kids to grab their shoes to go on an adventure. 

19. Vintage Style Shoe Rack

The vintage-style shoe rack isn’t only for the doorway. The chic and classic piece of furniture is ideal for the bedroom or walk-in closet. Vintage style is perfect for every shoe shape and design. Take your decor back in time while organizing your shoes. 

It turns out that bathroom curtains are more complex than people realize. For a basic bathroom, you need to focus on windows and shower curtains. The master bathroom varies in design and space. In some, you only need to focus on the window curtains. It might be a surprise, but bathroom curtains can be overwhelming. We compiled a list of the best bathroom curtain ideas, covering everything from long and small to elegant and unique. 

116 Awesome Bathroom Curtain Ideas

1. Elegant

With the right shower curtains, decor, and window curtains, your bathroom can become the most elegant room in the house. All it takes is a detailed curtain rod, hooks, and high-end curtains with classy trim. Shower curtains usually match the window curtains, sometimes with added color. A dark brown or white color for the window curtains brings a high level of elegance. Matching the curtains with the wall is always a great idea. Shutters, Roman shades, or no curtains are another way to make the room elegant. 

Master bedrooms often have larger bathrooms with various designs. A new style emerging is separating the shower from the tub. That eliminates the need for a shower curtain. If that’s the case, the window curtains become the center of the room. A dark color with a fringe at the bottom with some artwork on the walls elevates the elegance of the space. 

2. Guest

Guest bathrooms are often smaller restrooms that only get used when friends and family visit. To make the smaller rooms feel less cramped, try neutral colors to make the room feel more inviting. Neutral colors will open up the space as well.

Homeowners often spend a lot of time making the guest bathroom look perfect. Keeping the guest bathroom looking good is easier since it’s not always in use. On the other hand, it’s also easy to neglect the guest bathroom too.

Some go with a more basic colorful look for the curtains, featuring a floral print. Others go with an elegant look with a white curtain featuring a fringe or a unique design. In both cases, they should match the bathroom window and towels. It’s a guaranteed way to have every guest praising your bathroom.

3. Long

Long bathroom curtains are becoming all the rage nowadays. The great thing about long curtains is they work in a variety of ways. Master bathrooms often separate the bathtub from the stand-up shower with curtains. Ideally, long curtains work best with longer windows. Master bathrooms usually go for a more elegant look with dark brown, black, or white to brighten it up. Add a privacy curtain to feel relaxed and laid back. 

A combined tub and shower could mean there’s less space. Thus, a bright color or pattern will help make the room feel bigger. If space isn’t an issue, a white shower curtain will make the room pop. Long curtains are easily the best option in this case.

4. Modern

Bathroom curtains with a modern look are perfect for the master bathroom, the main bathroom, or the guest bathroom. Modern focuses more on playful patterns that are inviting and warm. Long bathroom curtains with elegant patterns class up a bathroom. The chic look usually matches the wallpaper or color of the wall. Designer shower curtains can have a solid color like white or match the pattern. They also work great with a grand design against a white wall.

Another popular choice is the timeless classic of bright color with subtle polka dots. The bright colors and patterns open up the room. The modern look also allows you to have a little more fun. You can match different color schemes and patterns to give the bathroom a unique look. It also works great for the guest bathroom, allowing you to make the space different from the rest of the house.

5. Small

Small bathrooms feel more challenging than the other bathrooms in the house. The lack of space doesn’t mean it can’t be a fresh, warm, and welcoming place. Neutral colors for the shower curtain or a little pattern bring elegance to the room. It feels fresh and spacious, which is vital for a small bathroom. Curtains with a pattern spruce up the room with a cool design and color.

A small bathroom is a great place to experiment with different styles and colors. Once a staple of the kitchen, cafe curtains are finding their way into the bathroom. Small bathrooms usually have small windows, meaning cafe curtains are perfect. It’s an inviting style that adds texture and warm colors. Small bathrooms also serve as the guest bathroom, so it’s easier to manage year-round. It’s easy to bring charm and elegance to the smallest room in the house. 

6. Unique

The bathroom is the best place in the house to let your creative side free. A unique shower curtain is great for most rooms in the house, notably the primary and guest bathroom. A unique, mind-blowing, and funny shower curtain will make the room feel inviting and exciting all at the same time. A simple curtain with a cool design will make the room charming and elegant.

Another elegant style is to go with a stunning view of a landscape, lake, or city with bright and engaging colors. Surreal 3D curtains featuring beaches or oceans will spruce up the room and open up the space. Unique seasonal curtains, such as Christmas or Halloween themes, impress guests and entertain kids. Of course, a wacky or silly DIY shower curtain is a great idea too. The bathroom is the number one place where people need a laugh, so introduce a funny shower curtain.

7. White

White is a popular color scheme to use in the bathroom for shower curtains and windows. White works in several ways. For instance, white shower curtains with matching shades bring elegance and charm to the room. Long, white widow curtains look stunning in the spacious master bathroom. Even in a small bathroom, white curtains turn the small space into an open and inviting place to let go of the day.

Plain white with a fringe brightens up the room with added color. White shower curtains with patterns can retain elegance while featuring a unique or funny design. A black and white shower curtain with cats is unique yet charming and chic all at the same time. It’s impossible to go wrong with white curtains.

8. Window

As noted, window curtains are just as important as shower curtains. The bathroom style and color have more to do with the curtains than anything else. While style is essential for the window, so is privacy. It’s the one place where privacy is the most important, but we want to maintain the style. A privacy shade is ideal if the bathroom isn’t isolated. Plus, they come in a wide range of styles and colors to enhance the room.

If the room is isolated, a sheer window curtain adds texture, light, and sex appeal. Velvet and Roman shades add another layer to the windows and bathroom. A fun floral pattern or subtle design works great in a small bathroom with limited space. Long window curtains with a pattern have a unique way of blending in with the background and shower curtain.

In some cases, their architecture marvels far from civilization. Others are world-famous for being on the market for years due to strange hauntings. Even after upgrade and restoration, these mansions still have a for sale sign sitting in their front yard. There are various reasons these phenomenal pieces of real estate appear cursed to be alone forever as you will discover below. 

10 Mansions No One Wants To Buy

1. Granot Loma

Michigan/Reddit

Known as the most expensive home in Michigan, Grant Loma is a breathtaking mansion on over 5,000 acres along Lake Superior. General Motors executive Louis Graveraet Kaufman completed the construction of the residence in the early 1920s. After Kaufman and his wife passed away in the early 1940s, their daughter remained in the home but left in the 1950s. It stayed abandoned until the Kaufman family sold it in the late 1980s.

It sits on 26,000 square feet with a private marina in the back. The house boasts a giant hot tub, 23 bedrooms, and four additional buildings. It went on the market at an asking price of $40 million. The price was too steep for most people, and it remains unsold, even after a 50% reduction. Despite being furnished, the isolated location makes it unappealing, as does the $20 million price tag. 

2. Schweppe Mansion

Urbex With Matthew 3/YouTube

While some mansions are too expensive and others too isolated, the Schweppe Mansion is too haunted. The eerie Gothic-style mansion sits hidden in the woods along Lake Michigan in Lake Forest, Illinois. The fantastic home sits on 21,000 square feet, boasting a 400-foot-long beach.

In 1917, Marshall Fields gifted his daughter Laura Shedd the stunning residence. After her death, Shedd left her children with a hefty inheritance, leaving her husband with very little. A few years later, he committed suicide.

Since then there have been several reported murders in the home, leaving behind tortured souls to haunt the house. For roughly 50 years, the scary mansion’s reputation grew as it remained empty except for the occasional ghost sighting.

In the 1980s, a family purchased the home, undertaking a painstaking restoration process. They put the house on the market for $18 million. They struggled to find a buyer, reducing the price over ten years to its current price of $8.5 million. The vacant home remains unsold.

3. The Priestley House

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In 1852, the first doctor of Canton, Mississippi, Dr. James Priestley, built a stunning mansion on 5,000 acres in the same town. The Priestley mansion is a prime example of the Southern Antebellum Greek Revival style of architecture and features a swimming pool, library, office, parlor, and music room. Priestly continued to enhance the mansion until the early 1900s. Not long after his family moved out of the house, leaving it empty until they sold it in 1996.

The new owners put the house through a vigorous restoration process and put it back on the market for $1 million. Despite reducing the price, they still haven’t sold it.

According to folklore, ghosts and other evil spirits haunt the home. People have reported seeing the translucent Dr. Priestley and a ghostly figure of a woman standing on the porch. They also claim to hear horrifying moans and screams throughout the residence. 

4. The Watcher Home

Where Are They Now?/YouTube

In 2014, the Broaddus family moved to 657 Boulevard in New Jersey. First constructed in the early 1900s, the stunning home has six bedrooms, four fireplaces, and four baths. It was the Broaduss family’s dream home until they started receiving threatening letters from someone claiming to be “the Watcher.” The letter stated that “the Watcher” had been watching the house and the family since the early 1920s and even addressed the family by name.

The stunning home once sold for $1.5 million but then remained unsold for years. The mystery about “the Watcher” gained traction in the neighborhood, making it difficult for the new owners to sell the home. They eventually sold the property for just over $900,000, but the current owners have been unable to unload it. The stunning mansion gained widespread fame after being the basis of the popular 2022 Netflix series, The Watcher.

5. SK Pierce Mansion

Haunted/Reddit

Built between 1873 and 1875, SK Pierce Mansion belonged to businessman Sylvester K. Pierce. Located at 4 West Broadway in Gardner, Massachusetts, Pierce became one of the city’s most well-known people. He ran a successful chair factory across the street from his famed mansion that features a four-story tower on top of the mansard roof with 11-foot ceilings. It also includes ten bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and stunning woodwork.

The estate became dilapidated and abandoned in the late 19th and early 20th century. During that time, tales of haunting sounds, ghostly sightings, and terrifying figures scared off anyone attempting to enter the building. At one point, the house was on sale for an asking price of just $329,000. New owners purchased the home after a significant restoration project, offering nightly tours of the haunted Victorian mansion.

6. The Lewis House

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Aubrey Lewis was a hero in Montclair, New Jersey. At various times in his life, he worked with the FBI, was an All-American athlete, and was an executive with a significant company. He lived with his wife Ann and their five kids at the historic Lewis home at 44 Pleasant Avenue. The nearly 100-year-old house sat on 3,900 square feet with six bedrooms.

After Lewis died in 2001, the house sat on the plot for over 20 years while the town decided what to do with it. An attempt to deem the land a historic site failed. In 2017, the local government’s solution was to put the house on the market for the low price of $10. It seemed like a great deal, except the owner had to pay to move and relocate the home on their dime. Due to a lack of buyers, the town demolished the house to make room for a new development.  

7. Charming Forge Mansion

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Ironmaster and glassmaker Baron Stiegel built the famous Charming Forge mansion in 1749. The quaint and charming mansion is aptly named and features seven bedrooms, colonial woodwork, and seven different fireplaces. When the new owners took over in 1976, they began to experience odd paranormal activity.

According to legend, several ghosts haunt the house, including German soldiers. Most famously, the ghost of the weeping lady haunts anyone that dares enter the abode. Due to a supposed curse on the owners, the house sat on the market for more than 15 years until it finally sold for $650,000.  

8. Ann Starrett Mansion

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In 1899, George Starrett built the stunning Ann Starrett mansion for the love of his life on an 8,000-square-foot lot. The house is a work of art with eight bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and a stunning spiral staircase.

Over the years, there have been numerous ghost sightings of George and Ann and their child’s nanny. Due to the legendary hauntings, the owners have always struggled to sell the house despite its beautiful architecture. 

9. Halston Penthouse

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Architect Paul Rudolph converted a carriage house into a stunning four-story penthouse in the Upper East Side, Manhattan, in 1966. In the 1970s, it became the home of fashion designer Halston. Halson was part of the Studio 54 crowd along with famous faces like Liza Minnelli, Andy Warhol, and Truman Capote. He often hosted the group and others at his famous penthouse, throwing wild parties that were full of sex, drugs, and rock and roll.

The 7,500-square-foot penthouse includes 32-foot-high ceilings, a minimalist sunken living room, a guest floor suite, and a 1,600-square-foot terrace with a brown glass facade.

In 1990, Halston sold the mansion before his death. The new owners struggled to sell the penthouse and after a lengthy restoration, it went back on the market for $38 million in 2011. Despite reducing the price to $24 million, it remained unsold. In 2018, fashion designer Tom Ford purchased the residence for $18 million. It’s unclear if he moved into the penthouse or simply added it to his vast collection. 

10. Hayes Mansion

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The Hayes mansion is a famous estate and landmark in San Jose, California. At one time, the mansion remained run down and empty for decades. The late 19th-century Mission Revival was the home of the Hayes family. The massive property includes a railroad station, chapel, carriage stop, post office, and power plant.

In the 1950s, the Hayes family sold the property but it remained empty. As the years passed, the Maltese Cross-shaped mansion was neglected. It stayed that way until the city of San Jose purchased the manor in 1985.

Consisting of marble, stained glass windows, and exotic wood, the Mediterranean estate sits on 41,000 square feet and was one of the lucky mansions to be saved, with the historic site is now a hotel and resort. 

1. Contemporary 

In many ways, contemporary designs reflect the popular styles of the time, meaning contemporary styles are constantly changing. They borrow from various styles and designs, including art deco, futurism, and deconstructivism. The furniture for this type of porch features curves with contrasting color palettes focusing on black and white. Contemporary porches often have decorative pieces that highlight the decor, such as outdoor settings or potted plants. 

2. Craftsman

Simplicity is the key to the craftsman porch design. Instead of relying on mass-produced homes and porches, the craftsman style focuses on individuality, local natural materials, hand-crafted construction, and simplicity. A trademark of the craftsman house is wide porches, low-pitched roofs, and exposed beams. There are four main styles of craftsman homes: prairie style, mission style, four-square style, and bungalow style. Each style uses a variation of the porch designs mentioned. 

3. Deck

The deck is often a feature of the backyard. However, it’s also starting to become a hugely popular front porch design. The small coastal front deck gives the front porch a quaint feel while making the most of a small space. The front deck can create an open space where you can add a swing or patio furniture. A small deck with roof extensions provides more than enough seating without obstructing the entry. Most front decks include a cover to protect against bad weather. 

4. Enclosed Porch

An enclosed porch turns a small space into an elegant, spacious, welcoming, and stylish area. It works with limited space as an entry providing covering from lousy weather. With slightly more space, it can include a seating area and a decorative rug. An enclosed porch opens up the area with a stylish design and uniqueness. 

5. Farmhouse

Farmhouses and their porches aren’t limited to one style. They can combine a rustic and timeless feel with contemporary, modern, or craftsman styles. Many farmhouses opt for a craftsman style with added modern appeal. More than any other style, simplicity is the main theme of the farmhouse style. It’s ideal for a small space and entry. 

6. Front Door

Nowadays the front door isn’t just an entry into the house. The front porch is seen as the appetizer, with the front door leading the way to the main course. It’s a big part of your porch decor that can give a glimpse into your personality.

A great way to spruce up a small porch is with decorative pieces and fake plants. It won’t break the bank or clutter the doorway. During the holiday season, front-door decorations and ornaments are commonplace. Welcome mats are the simplest way to turn an ordinary small space into an inviting front porch. 

7. Low-Cost Styling 

Low-cost styling is ideal for a small space. It doesn’t require millions of dollars to pull off the perfect porch. All it takes is a few items to transform the small porch into an inviting and stunning area. Add a coffee table with some seating to make the front porch the coolest hangout spot in the house. If that’s not feasible, a throw blanket and cushions can spruce up the area with minimal flair. Other options include a small coffee table, potted plants, faux flowers, and other decor items. 

8. Modern 

Scandinavian designs heavily influence modern architecture, focusing on a simple layout with practical furniture. The modern style first appeared in the late 1800s, reinventing itself with each decade. Unlike contemporary, modern styles utilizes functional decor over decorative pieces. It’s perfect for a small porch since the colors are neutral with solid lines, adapting to the latest trends. 

9. Porch Swing 

The porch swing could be the missing piece that ties your front porch together. The best part is a porch swing won’t break the bank. It’s the perfect do-it-yourself project. A simple and basic porch swing requires a few 2x4s and some paint. Then there are the creative porch swings for smaller spaces that are easier to build and will cost even less.

For example, hammock swings are easy to make, inexpensive, and require little space. A pallet swing is another affordable and creative front porch swing idea. If you feel game, add a potted plant or two. It will help the outdoor space look that much bigger. 

10. Rustic

Rustic is another approach that focuses on simplicity and affordability. Potted plants and a simple throw rug can easily give any front porch a rustic feel. Reusing furniture is a staple of the rustic look. Head to your local flea market and pick up some old-timey outdoor furniture that will tie the porch together.

A repurposed coffee table with some repainted chairs will cost nothing but look like a million bucks. An old bench makes for a perfect porch swing, or an old rocking chair will fit perfectly on the porch. A rustic birdcage and windchimes will bring the porch together, as will layered rugs on the porch floor. The options are almost unlimited. 

11. Seasonal Decor

Throughout the year, seasonal decor can easily turn your front door and porch into a festive site for all to admire. It won’t even take a lot to spruce the area up. Paint the front door black in the fall and winter to let Halloween decorations pop. That classic Halloween orange stands out against the black background. The same goes for Christmas wreaths, ornaments, and other decor. For the spring and summer months, paint the door with a warm color to highlight the lanterns and potted plants. Easter wreaths pop with bright colors and make the best door decoration. Each season has a different wreath that makes for great decor. 

12. Seating 

Wicker and wood seating furniture is ideal for any front porch. These items bring a warm, nostalgic, and welcoming feel. A rocking chair with a natural finish contrasts with a wicker chair featuring a bright pillow. Even in a small space, a tiny seating area can spruce up the front porch with elegance and charm. Additionally, a wicker pair of chairs with wicker cushions, blankets, and a wicker basket with flowers will make your front porch the talk of the neighborhood. Anyone approaching the house will be impressed by what they see. 

13. Tiles

Exposed tiles and brick are one of the easiest ways to open up a small porch and make it appear bigger. This type of style goes perfectly with rustic decor and wicker furniture. In addition, paint the railings white and add a light fixture by stringing light bulbs around the beams to give the illusion of more open space. A sweet throw rug with stacked potted plants in the corner will add charm to the front porch. 

14. Timber Porch 

Timber front porches allow the homeowner to adapt various types, including modern, craftsman, and contemporary. With timber front porches, the ideas are limitless. Depending on space and price, each style has several options, including sunrooms, wraparound porches, screened-in porches, verandas, and open porches.

A small timber porch goes excellent with rustic decor, wicker furniture, or a DIY swing that used to be a bench. Potted plants, throw blankets, and pillows can make it an inviting porch. At the same time, a timber front porch goes nicely with minimal furniture and decor. It’s the ideal porch for someone looking to save while highlighting their strengths.

15. Tiny 

It might feel like there isn’t much to work with regarding a tiny front porch. Well, limited space shouldn’t get in the way of you creating the sweetest tiny front porch in your neighborhood. A great place to start is with the door. Paint the door a bright color like pink to make it pop. Get two benches for each side of the door to give the illusion of more space. Trust us, they won’t get in the way, with the seating making the tiny porch seem bigger. A small swing with two wicker chairs and a small coffee table adds charm to a tiny porch also.

16. Vaulted Porch Ceiling

Vaulted porch ceilings make a small space feel like a grand front porch. The texture and designs give the illusion of more space, drawing the eye up. Vaulted ceilings work nicely with timber porches, rustic style, and modern. It’s perfect for a small space with a swing, chairs, and a coffee table. It helps turn a tiny porch with limited space into a stunning entrance. Vaulted ceilings with potted plants, rustic decor, and wicker furniture are great ways to turn the front porch into a masterpiece. 

I consider myself to be a little bit of an expert when it comes to chairs. Not only have I sat in my own fair share of them throughout the years, but I also grew up spending a lot of time in my mother’s home studio where she rebuilt and reupholstered chairs professionally. Starting at a young age, I picked up a healthy knowledge of what separates a good chair from a bad chair. I’ll give you a hint: if you’re a casual chair user, you’re probably way more likely to notice the cosmetic details and differences over the structural integrity, and it’s all about structure.

Something else that I picked up in all that time? My fair share of back problems, the international sign of getting older, right?. Whether from sports, injury, or just the daily strain of life, we could all be a little more careful and intentional with our spines. You only get one, after all. That’s why you should put some extra thought into the chair you spend your work week in, office-goers and work from home-rs alike. 

So, if you’re like me and looking to improve your daily posture, you’re probably asking yourself “Where do I start?” I’d start with SIHOO, a company shaking up the way we think about furniture (given how much time we spend sitting in it). Their newest model – the Doro-C300 Ergonomic Office Chair – is a master in all of the necessary categories. Take a seat and read on for Next Luxury’s full review of SIHOO’s latest masterpiece.

Who Is SIHOO?

SIHOO is a Chinese company that hit the ground running. With a 12-year focus on technology and wellness, SIHOO is an industry leader in the furniture world, maximizing efficiency and productivity by designing office furniture that speaks to the body’s core needs while also addressing our natural weaknesses.

Since the beginning, their primary focus has been taking these principles to market without sacrificing quality AND maintaining a price point that is approachable to the widest range of consumers. The M18, SIHOO’s first self-developed ergonomic chair, quickly became a best seller and opened doors for the brand to explore further into the industry.

This year, SIHOO is leveraging its past five years of experience to kick off a big push to educate us on the importance of choosing the right chair for you. Between April to July of 2023, SIHOO is raising a campaign called “Your 2334 Hours,” which is the estimated amount of time that your average office worker will spend at their desk over 1 year. The Doro-C300 Ergonomic Office Chair is at the epicenter of this campaign.

The Breakdown: The Doro-C300 Ergonomic Office Chair Features

The Doro-C300 Ergonomic Office Chair is a best-in-class option for comfort, but not in the way you’re probably used to quantifying chairs. This isn’t like your classic armchair in the living room or lounging chair in the bedroom designed primarily for aesthetics with a secondary emphasis on ergonomics. SIHOO approaches from the opposite direction, focusing on engineering while keeping artistic design in mind too.

Of all of the features found in the Doro-C300 Ergonomic Office Chair, SIHOO emphasizes three major differentiators that set the Doro-C300 apart from competitors. All of these functions are deeply ingrained in the design of the chair, serving as cornerstones of the value passed on to whoever sits in it. Here’s what they want you to remember:

• The Doro-C300 employs dynamic lumbar adaptive support. This means the chair truly moves with you. The chair is designed with an innovative body movement adaptive system, which takes note of your spinal movements with its lumbar support technology throughout your day. This makes the Doro-C300 a stand-out option for folks like me that are looking for a little extra support in the back or back pain relief.
• The Doro-C300 features a flexible motion-chasing seatback. This is where the technical side of SIHOO’s approach to design really shines the brightest. In their words, “the backrest closely mimics the human form, offering spinal support with side-to-side motion-chasing in a triangle formulation that effectively supports your upper torso and arms.” This is starting to sound like a creation from a superhero movie, right?
• The Doro-C300 has a wide-angle mechanical headrest. SIHOO utilizes a high-precision, auto-locking mechanism to control its one-of-a-kind headrest. By having the freedom to move independently, the extra-wide headrest “orchestrates on its own the symphony of ups, downs, and circular and front-to-back movements.” Not only does this approach encourage comfort, but it also supports your cervical spine in ways determined by and customized for your unique movements.

If you grab one of SIHOO’s newest chairs, you can brag on a long list of features in addition to these big three pillars of design, including breathable and stain-resistant cloud netting, super soft and adaptable armrests, a pressure sensing weight distribution system, and ergonomic waterfall design. It’s also worth mentioning that SIHOO is committed to utilizing only the highest quality materials to manufacture the Doro-C300. That’s what we like to hear!

One more quick note before diving into our hands-on review and reflecting on a week of use: could you guess what animal inspired SIHOO while designing the Doro-C300? There’s a chance you may never have heard of it, but the strong and smooth curves found naturally in the horns of the African Kudu served as a strong inspiration to approach the ergonomic needs of the chair with style and a tip of the hat to the natural world. Cool!

SIHOO Doro-C300 Ergonomic Office Chair Review

In order to really give a fair review and assessment of SIHOO’s exciting new addition to the office chair market, I dedicated a full week of work to be done exclusively in the Doro-C300. The biggest challenge of that entire time was sitting still, but that’s a separate issue. At a very high level, I can confirm SIHOO’s claims of comfort, ergonomic support, and attention to design elements with two big thumbs up. Let’s dig into some of the more granular details as I recap my week with SIHOO.

Upon arrival, I was really astounded by the size of the box it came in! It was one of those moments where I was pretty confident I knew what was arriving in the mail but had to backpedal and second guess upon it arriving on my porch. Right out of the gate, my expectation was set to expect luxury and above and beyond quality. A word to the wise, especially to those living on a second floor or above, it’s a two-person lift for sure!

Assembling the Doro-C300 was daunting before opening the box. I don’t excel at following directions (or asking for help), but SIHOO’s step-by-step process to connect the pieces and calibrate the Doro-C300 to your preferred settings was easy and stressless. Don’t be afraid!

Once out of the box and together in one piece, I was immediately really impressed with the look of the chair. While I understand the extra emphasis on ergonomic design, SIHOO is selling itself short on aesthetic appeal! It’s simple enough to blend in with established decor but strong enough in its design principles to be a stand-alone piece in a more minimalist setting. Props to SIHOO for limiting our color choices to black and white, we don’t need more options beyond the classics. Keep it simple!

One thing I noticed pretty quickly was how little I was fidgeting in comparison to other less comfortable chairs I’ve had the chance to work in in the past. The shape of the back and moveable headrest lead to less movement, while also blending in seamlessly with existing movement and probably making my routine fidgets a little less noticeable.

Well, if the setup was Monday morning, we’ll skip right to Friday afternoon from here. It’s worth noting that the Doro-C300 was definitely very comfortable out of the box, but the true measure of comfort and effectiveness will come after some serious use. So, for science, I put my head down and got to work.

I’m finding it hard to compare apples to apples here, mainly because no other chair has been able to keep me comfortable and sitting still long enough to compile this much data! I noticed a huge uptick in my own productivity. I was way more likely to tackle bigger projects (long-form writing or editing galleries of photos) in a stationary place, where usually I itch for small breaks or laps around the house to break up the process. It will be interesting to see how a longer span in the chair (I’m thinking after a month or two) will improve and help mitigate some recurring back pain in my life, as well as keep the good momentum I’ve had during my test week. Productivity for the win, SIHOO. I see you!

In Conclusion

Keep an eye on SIHOO’s website for information on the Doro-C300 Ergonomic Office Chair and how you’ll be able to snag one of your own. Given the success of their prior models and the demand for at-home productivity these days, you might have to wait a minute, but it’ll be worth the wait. Your back will thank you!

One popular trend in outdoor living spaces is the incorporation of comfortable seating areas. Plush sofas, lounge chairs, and hammocks provide a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for unwinding with a book or enjoying conversations with loved ones. Fire pits and outdoor heaters extend the usability of these spaces, allowing individuals to enjoy the outdoors even during cooler evenings or chilly seasons.

Another exciting idea for outdoor living spaces is the integration of a kitchen or a bar area. Outdoor kitchens equipped with grills, countertops, and sinks make cooking and entertaining a delightful experience. Imagine hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a gourmet meal surrounded by lush greenery and fresh air. Similarly, a well-stocked outdoor bar area with a built-in refrigerator and a sleek countertop allows for convenient outdoor entertaining, providing a refreshing space for socializing and mixing drinks.

Gardening enthusiasts can transform their outdoor spaces into stunning botanical retreats. Vertical gardens, hanging planters, and flower beds add color and vibrancy, creating a peaceful oasis. Incorporating water features like fountains or ponds further enhances the tranquil ambiance, providing a soothing backdrop of trickling water and a habitat for aquatic plants and wildlife.

For those seeking a more active outdoor experience, installing a swimming pool or a hot tub can provide the perfect solution. Pools offer a refreshing escape from the heat and serve as a focal point for gatherings and recreational activities. Hot tubs, on the other hand, provide relaxation and therapeutic benefits, offering a serene spot to unwind and melt away stress.

Furthermore, outdoor living spaces can be enhanced with entertainment systems such as outdoor televisions, surround sound systems, and even movie screens. These additions allow for outdoor movie nights, sports viewing parties, or simply enjoying your favorite tunes while basking in the beauty of nature.

In conclusion, outdoor living spaces have evolved beyond a mere backyard or patio. They have become an extension of our homes, offering endless opportunities for leisure, entertainment, and personal enjoyment. Whether you prefer a cozy retreat or an entertainment hub, the possibilities for creating an extraordinary outdoor living space are limited only by your imagination.

Ready to get started? Check out our favorite outdoor living space ideas below. 

1. Backyard

One of the best places to create an outdoor living space is right in your own backyard. Backyard living spaces have become an integral part of creating an oasis at home. These outdoor retreats offer a private sanctuary where one can relax, entertain, and connect with nature.

From cozy patios and decks to lush gardens and swimming pools, backyard living spaces provide endless possibilities. Comfortable seating areas, outdoor kitchens, and fire pits make entertaining a breeze, while greenery, water features, and ambient lighting create a soothing ambiance.

Constructing a concrete slab or paver patio is a great way to create a designated seating area in your yard. Arrange cozy, outdoor-safe furniture throughout the space. Include a table for outdoor dining or for use as a home office during the day.

Any size backyard can be turned into a functional living space. But your lifestyle and household needs pets and children included – will ultimately determine just how much grass you can trade for furniture and decor.

Whether it’s a space for family gatherings, quiet reflection, or lively parties, backyard living spaces allow individuals to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors right in the comfort of their own homes.

2. Deck

Deck outdoor living spaces have become popular extensions of homes, offering a versatile and stylish area for relaxation and entertainment. A deck bridges the gap between indoor and outdoor living in more ways than one. Whether you’re a routine sunbather or prefer to sit in the A/C, adapting your deck into the perfect outdoor living space is probably easier than you think.

These elevated platforms provide a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living, allowing individuals to bask in the beauty of nature while enjoying the comforts of home. Decks can be customized with comfortable seating, dining areas, and even outdoor kitchens, creating a perfect setting for gatherings and barbecues.

Comfortable and functional furniture is the first step in making the most of your current deck space. Wicker furniture is a classic choice. But there are patio furniture sets out there suited to all tastes and styles.

Basic amenities like shade sails, ceiling fans, and patio heaters can make your deck enticing even in subpar weather. Be sure to allow a large enough seating area for guests!

Whether it’s a small balcony or a sprawling multi-level deck, these outdoor spaces offer a tranquil retreat where one can unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy breathtaking views in a private and inviting environment.

3. Design 

From furniture layouts to lighting, creating an outdoor living space is not much different than designing an interior space. Many of the design elements that make an appearance in the average dining or living room can also be utilized outdoors.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with decor you don’t normally see outside. For example, an outdoor rug is a wonderful way to tie a patio seating area together. 

When planning out your patio, porch, or deck area, be sure to select items that are built to live outdoors. Otherwise, exposure to rain and sunshine will have them looking worse for wear before you know it.

4. DIY

Your backyard is one of the best locations to test your DIY skills. 

Of course, not everyone can jump straight into building a pergola from the ground up! But with the right tools and materials, you can bring your dream outdoor space to life with little more than your own two hands.

Backyard DIY projects aren’t limited to building things from scratch. A fresh coat of paint or new outdoor fabric is all many secondhand furniture pieces need for a new lease on life (And you can save a pretty penny while you’re at it).

5. Firepit 

For many homeowners, a backyard living space isn’t complete without some sort of firepit. This inventive and handy outdoor feature brings warmth, charm, and a sense of coziness to any backyard or patio.

These gathering spots provide a focal point for socializing and relaxation, allowing friends and family to gather around the dancing flames. Firepits come in various designs, from traditional wood-burning pits to modern gas-powered options, catering to different preferences.  Some people adore the idea of constructing a built-in fire pit to roast marshmallows over. Meanwhile, renters and those looking to add versatility to their outdoor living space should invest in a freestanding fire pit. 

Choosing the ideal fire pit for your outdoor space also means selecting a style that suits the existing decor. Fire pits can be built using natural stone, metal, brick pavers, and a variety of other materials.

With comfortable seating arranged around the firepit, these outdoor living spaces create an inviting and intimate atmosphere for conversations, storytelling, and creating cherished memories. Whether it’s a cool summer evening or a chilly autumn night, firepit living spaces provide the perfect setting for enjoying the outdoors in comfort and style.

6. Fireplace

A more formal outdoor living space might be best served by a traditional fireplace. (Yes, outdoor fireplaces exist!)

An outdoor fireplace can be a wonderful source of heat during the fall or on chilly summer nights. They add a touch of warmth, charm, and elegance to any outdoor area. It also offers soft ambient light that won’t disrupt the cozy atmosphere of your backyard deck or patio.

Outdoor fireplaces are typically built into a large pergola or another type of shelter. Some homes even feature fireplaces that connect to both the interior and exterior living spaces for maximum versatility.

These inviting spaces feature fire pits, fireplaces, or chimneys that provide a cozy and mesmerizing focal point. They create an inviting ambiance and extend the usability of outdoor spaces, allowing individuals to enjoy the outdoors even on cool evenings or during colder seasons.

Whether it’s gathering around the crackling flames with loved ones, roasting marshmallows, or simply enjoying the soothing glow, fireplace outdoor living spaces offer a sense of comfort and relaxation, making them the perfect spot to unwind and create lasting memories in the great outdoors.

7. Furniture 

Your outdoor living space may lack walls. But you can still arrange furniture throughout the space as you would a standard living room, dining area, or any other interior room.

Before purchasing furniture for your outdoor living area, you need to have a plan. Will the space contain a dining table for lunch al fresco? Or will it be a comfortable outdoor seating area for relaxing and entertaining?

Once you construct a basic blueprint, you can start narrowing down the type and style of furniture you want to include. Remember, many of the best outdoor living space ideas borrow inspiration from multiple sources.

Furniture for outdoor living spaces is designed to withstand the elements while providing comfort, style, and functionality. Durable materials like weather-resistant wicker, teak, or aluminum are commonly used to ensure longevity and easy maintenance.

Comfortable seating options such as lounge chairs, sofas, and dining sets invite relaxation and socializing. Cushions and pillows made from fade-resistant fabrics add a touch of coziness and can be easily cleaned. Versatile pieces like outdoor ottomans or coffee tables provide functionality and can be rearranged to accommodate various needs.

From sleek and modern designs to rustic and traditional styles, outdoor furniture enhances the aesthetic appeal and usability of outdoor living spaces, allowing individuals to fully enjoy their time in the open air.

8. Garden 

All of the modern comforts in the world can’t replace the peaceful atmosphere of an outdoor room that is one with nature. Garden outdoor living spaces provide a tranquil and immersive experience, blending the beauty of nature with functional and inviting design.

These spaces celebrate the art of gardening and create a serene oasis for relaxation and rejuvenation. Lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and carefully curated landscapes form a stunning backdrop for outdoor living.

Find ways to incorporate the existing garden landscape into your design – e.g., using a mature tree in place of a shade sail. Select furniture and decor that complements the garden beds surrounding your outdoor living space rather than compete with them. Potted plants can help blur the line between your backyard patio and the garden around it. Hang additional baskets from your pergola, nearby tree branches, or any other available structure. 

Seating areas nestled among the plants offer a peaceful retreat for reading or meditation. Water features like fountains or ponds provide a soothing ambiance, while pathways and trellises add charm and visual interest. Garden outdoor living spaces embrace the harmony between humans and the natural world, inviting individuals to connect with the beauty and serenity of their surroundings.

9. Luxury 

An oceanside view or Olympic-sized swimming pool is sure to give a backyard living space a dose of elegance. But you don’t need to live in a mansion to partake in a bit of luxury.

Luxury outdoor living spaces epitomize opulence, sophistication, and refined comfort. These extravagant retreats offer an unparalleled experience of outdoor living, combining lavish amenities, high-end materials, and impeccable design.

Impeccable landscaping, extravagant water features, and breathtaking views further enhance the luxurious ambiance. Sumptuous outdoor furniture, designer lighting, and state-of-the-art technology elevate the experience, while gourmet outdoor kitchens and dedicated entertainment areas ensure the seamless hosting of lavish gatherings.

Every little detail counts when designing a luxury space. Even one mismatched piece of furniture or out-of-place light fixture could throw off the entire look. For this reason, less is always more.

Crafting a peaceful atmosphere is also crucial. Invest in privacy panels to block unwanted noise and keep prying eyes out of your backyard. A small fountain or garden water feature is a wonderful way to drown out background noise if necessary.

10. Modern

If you think modern decor is best left to the controlled environment inside your home, think again. In fact, modern design is one of the top trends in outdoor living right now.

Modern outdoor living spaces epitomize contemporary design and lifestyle trends, providing a seamless integration of indoor and outdoor environments. These spaces combine sleek aesthetics, innovative materials, and cutting-edge technology to create a harmonious and functional outdoor experience.

From minimalist furniture to clean lines and geometric shapes, modern outdoor living spaces showcase a sophisticated and streamlined look. Sustainable features, such as eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient lighting, align with eco-conscious values.

With the inclusion of outdoor kitchens, fire pits, cozy seating areas, and smart entertainment systems, modern outdoor living spaces offer a seamless extension of the home, providing a stylish and inviting environment for relaxation, entertainment, and socializing. Select matching patio furniture in muted or neutral tones. For a slightly organic aesthetic, opt for a sofa or chairs made of streamlined wicker or rattan. 

Potted plants contrast perfectly against the sleek lines of modern decor. Structured species of palms, ferns, and other tropical foliage are great starting points. You can also experiment with varieties of cacti and other succulents if your climate permits!

It’s vital to figure out the type of house you’re looking to buy. House hunting breaks down into two main categories. First, there are types of structures, such as single-family homes, condos, and townhouses. Simply put, it’s the type of house you want to call home. Once the buyer figures out the type of house, they can move on to the architectural design. These styles include contemporary homes, Victorian, modern farmhouses, and bungalows. 

Buying a home can be overwhelming and challenging at times. However, the first step is to have a clear idea of the type of home you want to call a house. As they say, home is where the heart is. Here’s a guide to help first-time buyers or homeowners looking for something new. 

Types of Houses: Structures

The easy part is deciding that you want to purchase a new place to live. However, there are so many different structures it’s tough to know where to start. First-time buyers learn quickly that there are more than just houses and apartments on the market. Even current homeowners find it difficult to narrow their choices down to one. 

It’s essential to have a clear idea of the type of structure of the home you’re looking to purchase. Some couples are looking to buy a single-family home in the suburbs to start a family. On the other hand, buyers might be looking for something affordable in a city close to work. Renting might be the only option when it comes to affordability. 

1. Townhouse

Townhouses are individual residences with multiple floors, separate entrances, kitchens, and bedrooms. They often share one or two walls with neighbors, which reduces privacy. Also known as a townhome, the homes are side-by-side, so they make the most of the vertical space.

One of the most significant advantages of a townhouse is the affordable price. It costs less than a single-family home, but there’s a drawback. The main cons of a townhouse are the lack of freedom to make changes and privacy. 

2. Multi-Family

Multi-Family homes are cross-between apartment buildings and townhouses. Multi-Family homes are a property consisting of housing units with their own kitchen, bathroom, and main entrance. The units are either stacked on top of each other or side-by-side. Multi-Family homes can also be apartments, condos, or co-ops.

3. Semi-Detached

Semi-detached homes are duplex residences that share one wall with a neighbor. It’s halfway between a single-family home and a townhouse. In most cases, semi-detached houses come in pairs.

They often feature a kitchen, multiple bedrooms, and one and a half bathrooms. Semi-detached homes all follow the same layout and look identical. There’s a bit more freedom than a townhouse but about the same amount of privacy. 

4. Single-Family

Single-family homes are the most common type of houses. For most people, owning a single-family home is the ultimate goal. Unlike apartments, townhouses, and condos, a single-family home stands on its own and doesn’t share a wall with neighbors. These styles of homes usually feature two or more floors with a kitchen, multiple spaces, bedrooms, and bathrooms.

Depending on the size and style, many include a large backyard, balconies, and open porches. Single-family homes are private and usually found in the suburbs or other highly populated areas. These types of houses offer lots of privacy and freedom to make any changes. However, they also cost more to purchase and maintain.  

5. Tiny Home

In the last few years, tiny homes have exploded in popularity. Also known as the tiny house movement, these small dwellings are about 60 to 400 square feet. They come in various styles, but the main point is it’s a small home. Some tiny houses are prefabricated, and others are custom jobs.

Tiny homes provide a simpler way of life and allow the owners to focus on relationships, passion projects, and traveling due to the low cost. The residence is ideal for single people or couples looking to keep expenses down. However, the small space leaves no room for family growth. 

6. Mobile Home

The mobile home first appeared in the 1970s and quickly grew in popularity. They’re prefabricated structures constructed in a factory. Mobile abodes are permanently attached to a chassis with wheels allowing for transportation to the permanent or temporary location.

It’s ideal for people that can’t afford the traditional home or even commit to renting a space. One of the main benefits of a mobile home is easily moving to another location. 

7. Apartment

An apartment is a structure with a set of similarly styled separate units. However, apartments often feature shared common areas like the pool, laundry room, and gym. At the same time, tenants usually rent the unit from a landlord.

Therefore, the tenant isn’t building up any home equity. On the other hand, the landlord handles all repairs and upgrades needed for the building and units. With apartments, there’s very little privacy or freedom. 

8. Condo

A condo is similar to an apartment because it’s a building structure with a collection of units. They often have the same feeling as an apartment but differ in many ways. Like a single-family home, the owner purchases the unit and builds equity with the mortgage payments. There’s no landlord, so the owner is responsible for repairs and upgrades to the unit.

It may also include shared areas, but the homeowners association maintains that for the building. A condo is excellent for anyone looking to live in a city and own property but doesn’t want the responsibility of a single-family home. 

9. Co-Op

A co-op is a building structure like an apartment or condo but differs significantly. Also known as a housing cooperative, a corporation usually owns the physical building. People invest in the corporation instead of renting or buying.

The investor or shareholder owns a share of the company that owns the property instead of the unit. The shareholders appoint a board of directors that handles the repairs and maintenance. Co-ops are very affordable with a large community. However, there’s very little privacy and zero freedom with the group making all decisions together. 

Types of Homes: Architectural Designs

There are hundreds of different types of houses on the market. Knowing the type of architectural designs will inform the exterior and interior layout of the home. The type of house also depends on the period they were built. For instance, English culture heavily influenced several types of abodes during the Victorian era. At the same time, the French, Greek, and Italian cultures all inspired dwellings throughout the world. 

Some owners take an old house with a classic architectural design and restore it to today’s standards. For example, Victorian, Tudor, and Cape Cod-style homes are still popular. At the same time, new homes with influences from past architectural styles hit the market yearly, such as modern mid-century, contemporary, and modern farmhouses. Knowing the style will help you and the real estate agent narrow down the best possible options. 

10. Contemporary Styles

Contemporary homes feature eco-friendly materials with natural textures and clean lines. The colors are frequently neutral, with dabs of bright colors on the interior. Contemporary style is often confused with modern homes, but they differ significantly. A “modern” home refers to a style in the past while “contemporary” is now. However, contemporary homes usually feature modern-style aspects. 

Highlights: Edco-friendly, clean lines, natural textures, and neutral colors.

11. Mid-Century Modern-Style

The mid-century modern style appeared just after World War II and gained massive popularity throughout the 1950s. It’s a simple style tied closely with nature and features open spaces and large windows.

The main point of mid-century modern is all about function as form. During construction, mid-century modern uses a mix of concrete, steel, and plywood. 

Highlights: Open floor plan with large floor-to-ceiling windows and wide, flat roofs

12. Ranch-Style

After World War II, ranch-style homes became popular with soldiers returning from the war. They became immensely popular in the 1950s due to their unique design and affordable price.

A ranch house is easily recognizable for its horizontal structure, low-pitched roofs, and sliding glass doors. Ranch homes are also famous for being one story with a wide open backyard, lots of open space, and large windows. 

Highlights: One-story with large windows, an attached garage, sliding glass doors, and a big backyard with lots of space. 

13. Split-Level

In the 1950s and 60s, split-level homes experienced a boom in popularity. It’s an offshoot of the ranch-style abode that was also popular during that time. However, they differ from other homes in a significant way.

Unlike most two or three-story dwellings, split-level houses feature multiple floors with short flights of stairs instead of the standard long flight. 

Highlights: Shorts flights of stairs instead of long flights. 

14. Tudor-Style

In the 1800s, architects from England brought asymmetrical Tudor-style homes to North America. By the 1920s, they were all the rage and in huge demand. They’re famous for their storybook appearance, which takes inspiration from the Medieval and Renaissance eras.

Tudor homes feature steep multi-gabled roofs, ornate chimneys, and timber framing that complement the classic lead windows. 

Highlights: Stone masonry with timber framework, narrow windows, and elaborate doorways. It boasts a steep roof, ornate chimneys, stone trim, and timber framing. 

15. Cape Cod-Style

Cape Cod style, as the name suggests, first became popular in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, in the 1600s. The main idea behind the Cape Cod style at the time was to protect families from the rough New England winters.

At the time, Cape Cod-style featured heavy shutters, roof shingles, and a main entrance. The homes also included a central chimney to heat each room in the house. Many of these elements are incorporated into Cape Cod homes today. However, fireplaces and chimneys are on the side instead of the center of the home. 

Highlights: Built using wood covered in shingles with a central doorway and steep roof.

16. Colonial Style

In the 1600s, colonial-style homes popped up around the same time as the Cape Cod style. Colonial homes were prevalent along the Eastern seaboard, where the winters were rough and harsh. The home’s simple symmetrical style includes a grand entrance, chimneys, and a series of evenly-spaced windows with shutters.

They’re usually two stories tall and feature a central fireplace, low ceilings, and a central staircase. French, Dutch, Spanish, and English colonists influenced the colonial style with their creative designs during that time. 

Highlights: Two stories tall, including columns, a central staircase, a sloping roof, and a grand entrance with a decorative crown above the door.

17. Victorian-Style

Victorian-style homes began popping up during the reign of Queen Victoria in the late 1830s and early 1900s. Hence the name, Victorian-style. There are several different styles of Victorian homes, including stick, shingle, and Queen Anne. The houses are large, brightly painted structures with wraparound porches, steep roofs, and elaborate woodwork. 

Highlights: Two to three stories high with a broad, steep roof, wraparound porches, verandas, and small towers. The exterior includes several rooms, featuring a formal living room, library, and formal dining room. They also boast deep archways and high ceilings.

18. Gothic Revival

Due to the success of the Victorian, the Gothic revival style soon found its way to North America. It’s a staple of European culture and spread across the globe. They were hugely popular between 1840 and 1880 but eventually died out.

Gothic revival borrows heavily from European castles and cathedrals from that time. The homes are famous for their steeply pitched roofs with vertical siding, windows with pitched arches, and deep porches. 

Highlights: Steeply pitched roofs, deep porches, and wood framing with gingerbread trim.

19. Mediterranean-Style

During the 16th century, Spanish settlers introduced North America to the breathtaking Mediterranean-style of home designs. Greek, Italian, and Spanish villas heavily influenced this particular type of house.

They often boast verandas, large arched windows, outdoor living spaces, and second-floor balconies. However, Mediterranean houses are best known for their white stucco interior and flat red clay roof tiles with stucco finishing. 

Highlights: The architectural style boasts vast open spaces with second-floor balconies and elaborate outdoor living spaces that allow constant airflow. The houses are famous for the low-pitched red clay roof tiles, stucco finishing, and metal railings around balconies. Plus, the interior features white stucco walls and open seating areas. 

20. Bungalow

Henry and Charles Greene helped popularize bungalows in the United States during the 19th century. They had been popular in the UK for years before Americans got their hands on these affordable homes.

Bungalow-style homes are usually one-story with a sloping roof with a possible second story. The bungalow’s interior typically includes a fireplace, built-in cabinetry, and a large open living room. 

Highlights: Bungalows come in various styles, including ranch style, California-style, and Chicago-style. The incredible architectural design boasts a flat sloping roof supported by squared columns. Two impressive highlights are the stone elements and large open porches. 

21. Craftsman

Sometimes, people are looking for an original house. They get tired of the cookie-cutter homes that all look the same on the inside and out. Therefore, the handmade and well-built Craftsman style home is ideal.

These stunning and sturdy homes feature hand-worked materials with hand-laid fireplaces, window seats, and built-in bookshelves. The exterior of the Craftsman includes a low-pitched gabled roof and tapered columns on the porches. 

Highlights: The handmade architectural design boasts hand-worked material and exposed beams. The main highlights include low-pitched roofs, built-in bookshelves, and hand-laid fireplaces. 

22. Greek Revival

Influenced by Greek culture, Greek revival-style homes emerged in the 1830s in North America. These gorgeous homes feature columns inspired by Greek architecture like the Parthenon. A grand entrance is usually the highlight of the exterior.

In addition to the columns, the houses include other Greek-style embellishments and neutral colors. In many ways, the Greek revival homes helped make Greek architecture popular in North America and Europe again. 

Highlights: Grand entrance with large columns and Greek embellishments. 

23. French Country

French country style features a stone exterior with pointed roofs and shutters. The interior boasts a stone fireplace, distressed wood, and weathered decor. French-style houses first became popular in the countryside of France before spreading across the world. 

Highlights: French culture heavily influences the design and includes natural materials, stone, wood, and stone elements.

24. Modern Farmhouse

Inspired by traditional farmhouses, modern farmhouses are becoming hugely popular due to their unique design and rectangular layout. A distinctive feature of modern farmhouses is the exposed beams, brick, and stone. It has a rustic look with a big front porch, tall ceilings, and a central fireplace. 

Highlights: It includes a rectangular layout with a barn-style roof, a central fireplace, and a large porch. It also features exposed brick, stone, and beams.

25. Prairie Style

Architect Frank Lloyd Wright helped make prairie-style homes popular in North America during the Victorian era. During that time, architects were bored of the old European style of house and wanted to create something fresh and new. It features an open-concept floor plan with natural woodwork and flat roofs. 

Highlights: The main part is an open-concept floor plan with long flat roofs to allow flowing air. 

26. Cottage Style

Nowadays, people often buy cottages for vacations in the summer and winter. However, that wasn’t the initial purpose of a cottage. In fact, the British brought the idea of cottages to America for working-class farmers and their families.

Cottages have individual qualities and are often small, cozy, and relaxing. They usually feature impressive woodwork, shingle siding, a fireplace, and small front porches. 

Highlights: Comfortable and relaxing small space ideal for vacations. It boasts gorgeous woodwork, shingle siding, and a small front porch.

These luxury abodes are located across the globe, from New York and Los Angeles to London and Mumbai. Most of them are owned by elite members of society who have more money than they know what to do with.

The houses on this list are massive mansions with dozens of rooms, multiple bathrooms, and large outdoor areas. Many have special rooms and luxurious features we normal folk can only dream about having in our homes. They also cost an absolute fortune. Some of these properties are not only massive but worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Put simply, these are homes you can only think about owning. 

So prepare to get jealous as we list the 13 biggest houses in the world. 

13. Fair Field, Hamptons, Long Island, United States (64,000 square feet)

The Hamptons, just outside of New York, is home to many rich and famous people who have grand houses. The likes of Jay-Z and Beyonce, Jennifer Lopez, and Jerry Seinfeld all have holiday homes in the area. But none of their homes are quite as spectacular as Far Field. Owned by junk bond financier Ira Rennert, this mansion is reportedly worth between $267-500 million.

The Hampton home is said to have 29 bedrooms and 39 bathrooms because you never know when someone might need the loo. There are also two bowling alleys, an indoor basketball court, a 164-seat theater room, and a couple of squash courts. Fair Field also comes with a hot tub rumored to have cost $150,000.

As well as being one of the biggest houses in the world, Fair Field has been mired in controversy thanks to Rennert. He was accused of using funds from MagCorp to fund the building of his luxury home. He was found guilty and forced to pay the company over $200 million in damages. 

12. Xanadu 2.0, Lake Washington, Seattle, United States (66,000 square feet)

This mansion overlooking Lake Washington is owned by Bill Gates and his ex-wife Melinda. While it was once the couple’s family home for many years, since the two got divorced, nobody is quite who owns the house or lives there. The mansion is a collaborative design by Bohlin Cywinski Jackson and Cutler-Anderson Architects of Bainbridge Island. 

The 60,000 square feet abode is estimated to be worth around $130 million. For some reason, it has 24 bathrooms but only has seven bedrooms. There’s also a trampoline room, an art-deco movie theater, and a 60 feet outdoor/indoor swimming pool that has its own underwater music system. Another feature is the dome-shaped roof and private library. 

11. Pensomre, Highlandville, Missouri, United States (72,215 square feet)

Located high up in the Ozark Mountains, this expensive house is one of the largest in America. Designed by Steven Huff, an astrophysicist and former CIA officer, Pensomre is built to withstand just about any natural disaster imaginable. Impervious to earthquakes, tornadoes, fires, and even bomb blasts, this five-story mansion is the type of building the President of the United States would feel safe in. 

This incredible construction is made from unique insulated concrete that results in 12-inch thick walls. There are 13 bedrooms and 14 bathrooms, but that’s about all we know about the interior. It’s still unclear whether the house is actually complete, with several lawsuits having impacted the build over the years.

10. Taohuayuan House, Suzhou, China (72,400 square feet)

The biggest house in China is some 72,4000 square feet and is located on a private island. Taking three years to complete, Taohuyuan House – Taohuyuan translates to ‘Utopia’ or ‘Peace Blossom Land,’ which makes sense when you consider how beautiful it is – consists of ​​32 bedrooms and 32 bathrooms. Decked out with traditional Chinese furnishings, this mansion also has a walk-in cellar and a  huge infinity pool.

Outside the grounds resemble a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with lush greenery, a large lake, a waterfall, and manicured gardens. It is believed Taohuayuan House sold for $154 million in 2016 to an unnamed buyer, making it the most expensive house ever sold in China. 

9. Villa Leopolda, The French Riviera, France (80,000 square feet)

The French Riviera is home to many luxurious mansions, but none are as big as Villa Leopolda. Designed by American architect Ogden Codman Jr., this imposing structure was built between 1929 and 1931 and once housed King Albert I. It was used as a medical hospital during World War I and had many rich and famous owners until Brazilian billionaires Edmond and Lily Safra took ownership in 1987. It is currently owned by Russian oligarch ​​Mikhail Prokhorov.

Estimated to be one of the most expensive homes in Frace, Villa Leopolda sits on 50 acres and boasts 19 bedrooms, 14 bathrooms, 12 swimming pools, and a private theater. The grounds also include a commercial greenhouse, outdoor kitchen, and helipad.  

Villa Leopolda is believed to be one of the most expensive homes in all of Europe with a price tag of $750 million. 

8. Versailles House, Windermere, Florida (85,000 square feet)

Inspired by the Chateau of Versailles in Paris, Versailles House is owned by Westgate Resorts founder David Siegel and his wife Jackie. Construction on the couple’s dream home initially began way back in 2004 before money troubles hit and work stalled around 2009.

Building eventually resumed in 2013 and was scheduled to be finished in 2016 but further problems have plagued the construction. The mansion is now set to finally be completed sometime this year, but considering the track record of the build, that could change. 

Versailles House is being built on a man-made hill and is set to feature 14 bedrooms, nine kitchens, 32 bathrooms, and a ballroom with a capacity of 1,000 people. There are also three pools (one indoor, two outdoor), a video arcade, a yoga studio, two movie theaters, a bowling alley, an exotic-fish aquarium, and a 20,000-bottle wine cellar. 

7. Wintanhurst Mansion, London, England (90,000 square feet)

Wintanhurst Mansion is the second largest estate in England, coming in at a whopping 90,000 square feet. This impressive abode was designed by architect George Hubbard and took seven years to complete. It has had several high-profile owners over the journey including soap magnate Sir Arthur Crosfield, Kuwaiti businessman Mr. Al-Hasouwy, and Russian billionaire Andrey Guryev. Wintanhurst Mansion is currently valued at around $450 million. 

The property has 65 rooms with 25 bedrooms, a gym, a sauna, a billiards room, and a massage parlor. The rooms are said to be richly decorated, with oak flooring and timber wood paneling throughout. Large basement extensions have also been made, although nobody is quite sure what lies below. 

6. The One, Bel Air, California, United States (105,000 square feet)

No house has had such a troubled past as The One. The mega-mansion in Bel Air is one of the biggest and most expensive homes in the United States. Owned by film producer Nile Niami, it took eight years for the mansion to be completed, with the final touches only coming in 2021.

The 105,000 square feet property was initially put on the market before completion for $500 million, but the price dropped to $295 million after zero interest. It was eventually sold for $127 million in March 2022 to Fashion Nova owner Richard Saghain. So what does Saghain get for his millions?

Designed by architect Paul McClean, The One is split into four sections and contains 21 bedrooms and 42 bathrooms. Other notable features include a beauty salon, bowling alley, a 30-seat movie theater, five swimming pools, a 10,000 square feet sky deck, a nightclub, and an underground 50-car garage. 

5. Safra Mansion, Sao Paulo, Brazil (117,000 square feet)

The Safra’s, Edmond and Lily, who once owned Villa Leopolda on the French Riveria also own this impressive compound in Brazil. The largest private residence in Sao Paulo, the banking family built the mega-mansion to escape the spotlight and live in privacy.

Located in the Morumbi area, there isn’t a lot known about the 117,000 square feet property. The Safra’s are notoriously private and few civilians have been let into the home. 

The details that have been released list the Safra mansion as having a whopping 130 rooms, both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and a giant wall that surrounds the property to keep unwanted eyes out. How much the estate is worth is also up for debate, but many believe it to be in the hundreds of millions.

4. Biltmore Estate, Asheville, North Carolina, United States (178, 926 square feet)

This picturesque mansion is the biggest house in America. The Biltmore Estate was built between 1889 and 1895 for art collector ​​George Washington Vanderbilt II. The main house is chateau-inspired and comes with a head-scratching 250 rooms. Why you would need so many rooms is anyone’s guess, but Vanderbilt II obviously wanted options.

There are 43 bathrooms, 65 fireplaces, and a massive indoor swimming pool. One of the highlights of the sprawling property is the 23,000-book library that contains many classic and first editions.

Today Biltmore Estate serves as a historic house museum and tourist attraction, with people able to spend the night on the grounds. There are two different hotels, several wineries, restaurants, and gift shops that make up the property. It is a great place for a weekend getaway.

3. Antilia, Mumbai, India (400,000 square feet)

This eye-opening 27-story high complex in Mumbai is owned by billionaire Mukesh Ambani. He and his family moved into the luxurious building in 2012. Named after the mythical island Antillia, Ambani’s high rise is regarded as the most expensive private residence in the world, costing somewhere between $1-2 billion to build.

The 500 feet tall building was constructed by two different design companies and is earthquake-proof. This traditional style of Indian building means that no two floors are the same. The top six floors are residential areas where Ambani and his family live. The other floors contain a pool, spa, gym, a 50-seat theater, health center, temple, and even a snow room that produces real snow. Six of the floors are taken up by garages that can hold 168 cars while there are three helipads on the roof. 

Around 600 staff are required to maintain the home, although we are sure Ambani can afford these considering the size of his fortune. 

2. Buckingham Palace, London, England (828,820 square feet)

King Chalres’ regal abode is over 300 years old and home to the royal family. It is the biggest house in all of the United Kingdom. Although not a private residence – it is owned by the Crown Estates – the recently installed King spends much of his time there so it deserves a spot on this list. 

Buckingham Palace has an incredible 775 rooms scattered throughout its five floors. There are 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, 78 bathrooms, 52 resident bedrooms, and 19 staterooms. In case the King has any important mail to send out there is a post office on the grounds, along with a jeweler’s workshop to fix his crown if the jewels come loose. There is also a cinema, swimming pool, and doctor’s surgery. Huge garden areas surround the Palace where the King often holds parties and official ceremonies. 

Republican fans can even visit Buckingham Palace during the summer months. The public is allowed access to 19 staterooms and the gardens, getting a small glimpse at life as a royal. 

1. Istana Nurul Iman Palace, Brunei (2,152,782 square feet)

It’s no surprise Istana Nurul Iman Palace tops the list of the biggest houses in the world. The 2,152,782 square feet palace is the official residence of the Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah. Anyone of that stature is sure to live in a grandiose property. Istana Nurul Iman Palace also plays host to the Brunei government. 

Designed by Leandro V. Locsin and built by Ayala International, the palace cost close to $1.5 billion. Known as the Light of Faith Palace, the monstrous home has ​ 1,788 rooms, 257 bathrooms, and a 110-car garage. There is also a ballroom that can hold up to 5,000 guests and a mosque that can accommodate 1,500 followers. Bolkiah, a lover of polo, has a safe haven for his 200 ponies, with an air-conditioned stable on the grounds.

The Guinness World Records considers Nurul Iman Palace to be the “world’s largest residential palace.“

Patio chairs are far from one-size-fits-all. As if picking furniture based on appearance wasn’t enough, you also need to consider things like material, size, and function. While the potential options at your disposal are practically endless, the act of actually shopping for new outdoor furniture can be extremely overwhelming.

Below you will find a guide to the different types of patio chairs, a buyer’s guide, along with our seven top picks. Hopefully, we can save you some time so you can spend more time lounging on your patio and less time designing it.

Types of Patio Chairs

Keep in mind that not all chairs fit perfectly into one of these categories. But the information below will still help build the vocabulary needed to outfit your patio exactly the way you want it.

Adirondack

Even if you don’t know Adirondack chairs by name, you’re sure to recognize the distinctive shape. Adirondack chairs are low-seated with tall, sloped backs. Most are made of plastic or wood.

This style of patio chair is most often seen around fire pits, near pools, and as general garden decor.

Club

While the term “club chair” is fairly outdated, it’s the best way to describe many chairs available today. These are comfy, oversized armchairs designed for outdoor lounging and conversing!

Club-style chairs may feature traditional patio cushions on the seat and back. Or they can be fully upholstered (just like the armchairs inside your home).

Dining

Many patio chairs are designed for use with a dining table. These chairs resemble those inside your dining room. But they are made of outdoor-friendly materials like plastic, metal, wicker, or treated hardwood.

Patio dining chairs are frequently sold in sets—with or without a matching table. However, they can also be used individually for additional seating or when patio space is tight.

Lounge

Sometimes called outdoor chaises, patio lounge chairs are one of the most comfortable options out there. While this style is most often associated with the poolside, lounge chairs can be used on literally any type of patio.

In reality, patio lounge chairs come in an extremely wide variety of shapes and materials. Some are upholstered. Others are made of solid wood, metal, or plastic.

The key design feature all lounge chairs have in common is an elongated seat that can accommodate the user’s outstretched legs.

Rocking

Rocking chairs aren’t just for nurseries. In fact, rocking patio chairs are more common than you might realize.

Keep in mind that rocking chairs come in many shapes and styles. It’s even possible to overlook the fact that a chair rocks if you’re not specifically checking for such features.

Although rocking chairs don’t serve any particular purpose, many people find them to be more relaxing than entirely stationary chairs. Rocking chairs can mimic the calming motion of a swing without the need for extensive hardware or time-consuming installation.

Swinging

While not everyone’s cup of tea, swinging patio chairs are immensely popular with some outdoor design trends.

There are several types of swinging chairs available. Most can be categorized by whether they include a support system or must be hung from a separate structure (like a pergola or overhanging roof).

Buyer’s Guide

Material

Selecting a material for your new patio chair is important for several reasons.

If you’ve chosen a chair marketed for outdoor use, there’s little need to worry about whether the material will hold up to the elements. However, even “outdoor-safe” materials vary in terms of durability.

Material can play a role in the chair’s overall comfort. This is more so the case for fabric and cushions than for weight-bearing materials like metal and wood.

Last but not least, the material your patio furniture is made of will impact its appearance. Some materials are better suited to certain aesthetics than others. Keep your design plans in mind when shopping for patio chairs.

Style

As far as appearance is concerned, the style of your chosen patio chair is very important.

Being able to identify the most common styles of patio chairs can make shopping for your own outdoor space that much easier.

Function

Yes, all patio chairs are designed for the same purpose—sitting. But that’s not necessarily the whole story.

For example, outdoor dining chairs are built differently than those intended for lounging. And trying to use one type of chair for an unintended purpose can be uncomfortable and frustrating.

Before narrowing down your favorite patio chairs, make a list (mental or physical) of the activities you’d like to do in your outdoor living space. Select a chair that accommodates as many of those functions as possible!

Accessories

Most patio chairs are sold individually or in sets. However, some are bundled with additional furniture, e.g., matching ottomans, tables, etc.

Even if your chosen patio chair doesn’t come with accessories, it’s worth researching what matching items (if any) are available.

For example, you might decide you’d like to invest in an ottoman to go with your new chair. You’ll be best off purchasing a chair that has a matching ottoman available.

Care

Some materials will withstand the elements better than others. Similarly, some materials need more maintenance throughout their lifespans than others.

Some questions to ask yourself when shopping for outdoor furniture include:

• Are you willing to cover your patio chair when it’s not in use? Or do you want outdoor furniture that you can leave exposed almost year-round?
• Do you have the time and energy to keep upholstered cushions clean? Or would a chair that can be sprayed or wiped clean be a better fit for your lifestyle?
• Are you looking for a patio chair that will dry immediately after it rains?
• Are you willing to refinish or treat your patio furniture to keep it looking its best? Or are you in the market for maintenance-free decor?

Take your local climate (and the general location of your patio) into consideration. Even materials that are safe to keep outdoors may be more prone to rusting or fading in some areas.

Best Buy

1. Polywood Presidential Rocking Chair

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Style: Rocking

Material: Plastic

Upholstery: None

If you’re looking for patio seating that combines a classic aesthetic with modern features, this chair is a great place to start.

Don’t let the plastic construction fool you. This chair – made of recycled milk jugs – boasts greater durability than many “luxury” counterparts. The plastic frame is moisture-, fade-, rust-, and stain-resistant.

The sheer simplicity of this patio chair also makes it extremely versatile. Tuck a single chair into the corner of your porch or balcony. Or purchase a matching set for multiple seating options. This chair can also be paired with matching side tables for a complete patio furniture setup.

Despite the great things this patio chair has to offer, it falls short in terms of comfort.

The seat is a bit too short for many people and the back is very straight. So, if you plan to add this chair to your collection, be sure to invest in a set of cushions as well.

2. Beacon Park Brown Wicker Lounge Chair

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Style: Rocking

Material: Steel and resin

Upholstery: Removable Olefin cushions

It’s fairly easy to tell a person’s design priorities by the type of seating they choose. If you find yourself gravitating toward particularly cozy pieces, this wicker lounge chair will definitely catch your eye.

This patio chair is marketed toward fans of the farmhouse aesthetic, and it would look right at home in such a space. But there’s also plenty of reason to include this lounge chair in a modern-, contemporary-, or even Victorian-inspired space!

As is the case with most Hampton Bay furniture, this patio chair is just one part of a matching collection. Coordinating items include tables, ottomans, dining chairs, and more.

For the average person, this chair will probably feel oversized. This could be a benefit or a drawback depending on what you’re looking for in your new patio seating.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the assembly process is very hit-or-miss. While there’s a good chance you’ll have no trouble putting this chair together, some units ship with warped or misaligned parts.

3. Walker Edison Wood Chevron Outdoor Patio Set

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Style: Dining

Material: Acacia wood

Upholstery: Removable polyester cushion

What’s better than one stylish patio chair? If you thought the answer was anything but “two stylish patio chairs,” you’ve given us too much credit in terms of originality!

All bad jokes aside, these patio chairs contain a ton of potential just waiting to be tapped. While they’re labeled as dining chairs, there’s no shortage of functions these chairs could serve.

Of course, the solid acacia wood construction is beautiful. Just keep in mind that it needs more maintenance than synthetic materials. Walker Edison recommends applying teak oil every two to three months.

These chairs aren’t the peak of quality but are a worthwhile investment for the price. For most, the assembly process is the worst part of owning these chairs.

4. Flamaker 3 Pieces Patio Furniture Set

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Style: Rocking

Material: Steel and resin

Upholstery: Removable polyester cushions

There are many times when a single patio chair is all you need. But investing in a multi-piece set can help take the guesswork out of home decorating. This patio set includes two chairs and a matching accent table.

The metal frame is durable and well-crafted. It also includes a subtle touch of resin rattan. But this latter detail is easy to miss if you don’t know it’s there.

Even if a side table wasn’t on your list of must-haves, it’s a convenient addition to any seating area.

Note that this particular style of rocking chair isn’t ideal for use at a dining table or for a similar purpose. The only way to prevent rocking is to place a shim on either side of the base.

Affordability is definitely something this furniture set has going for it. But it lacks the durability, comfort, and ease of assembly of higher-end options.

5. Devoko 3 Piece Rattan Wicker Chair Set

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Style: Club

Material: Steel and resin

Upholstery: Removable polyester cushions

This patio set is another great way to fill an outdoor space without spending a fortune on furniture. It includes two chairs plus a side table.

These chairs combine a basic profile with the texture of rattan-inspired resin. But the streamlined look overall may not suit all decor styles.

The inclusion of a matching side table makes this set ideal for stints of sitting with a cocktail or cup of coffee. If you plan to spend hours lounging, we recommend upgrading the cushions.

At 330 pounds, these chairs boast a higher weight capacity than many others on the market. Investing in furniture with generous weight capacities is always a good idea. If you’re looking for a reliable furniture set that will fit on a small patio or balcony, this is it.

Be prepared to spend an hour or two assembling this set. Having the right tools on hand (versus using the ones included) will make assembly much easier!

Final Thoughts

It’s rare to find two patios that look exactly alike. So, it’s only natural that patio furniture would follow a similar rule. Though narrowing down a patio chair that will work for all outdoor spaces is near impossible, the Polywood R100AR Presidential Rocking Chair is the closest we’ve found to date!

This deceptively simple patio chair offers plenty of style and versatility at an accessible price point. You can feel good knowing that the chair is made of recycled plastic milk jugs. And, while the lack of upholstery may seem like a drawback at first, it gives you the opportunity to customize your new patio furniture with cushions of your own.