Unnecessary Furniture and Home Decor You Think You Need To Buy

[@nikkifeltman8523]

I love that you talk about NOT needing things instead of just telling the world that they need to buy everything that’s beautiful or trendy. such a breath of fresh air 🙌

[@mhughes152]

Agreed with that. I've stopped watching most design oriented KZbinrs because of that. Just pushing you to buy more crap that you desperately "need."

[@belkyhernandez8281]

Agreed

[@rabiasayed7300]

Thanks Nick for telling it like it is😅 I love decorating my home,however,I agree fully with your practical approach to decor. Just thought I'd mention that I hate open book shelves....it can look really uggggly if not done properly just my two cents😂....

[@carolerosario1201]

Keeping it real!

[@sweetygirl165]

The only problem is that he repeats every point at least once 😅

[@kra13]

"They're not coming, honey; they're not coming." HYSTERICAL. I love Nick's advice, his aesthetic, and his general brilliance, but his humor is a whole other level of entertainment. Thank you!!!

[@cortinasin4525]

Funny 😂

[@tricianderson1717]

That was one of my favorite comments of his from this video! Dying laughing! 😂

[@aimeeOB]

I'm dying laughing at this. 🤣

[@feleciawallace8420]

Yep, when I was young, just starting out in my new apartment I thought I'd be entertaining bigtime... but once reality set-in I realized, they're not coming. I bought tons of stuff that I eventually gave away and donated... Now I'm teaching my daughter not to over-plan, over-decorate or over-compensate but she's not listening to me, I sent her this video, hope it helps.

[@KJxxoo]

I felt this! Lol. But they aren’t coming because I’m not inviting them 😅

[@pretty.odd.]

Nick doesn't get enough credit for being a comedy channel. I laugh out loud multiple times per video each video. "Unless you really love the look of displaying your alcoholism, you have at it!" I snorted.

[@lauralake7430]

Came here to say this! Honestly, I barely decorate anything, but I LOVE Nick!

[@GoAwayNow-iz3du]

When alcoholism has become your identity... =p

[@Jerseybytes2]

I'm afraid that, if I got a bar cart its only purpose was so the cats had more places to take naps in. and that's why we have side tables. coffee table is so the dog can pretend to be a cat when hubby and I watch tv If anyone ever visits me, which I hope they don't, they can sit on the dogs bed or the cats tree. they better not break them or the cats won't be too happy with it and they'll have to replace them.

[@ssgg23]

My sister has a farmhouse style bar cart and I actually think it’s the cutest thing ever but it matches perfectly with their very old wood frame home. 😂

[@cynthiajohnston424]

@@Jerseybytes2 You're my kinds people ! 🐾🐾😂

[@nabimiso]

When my kids were little I went all out for almost every holiday. A few years ago I just got tired and decided to pull way way back. My son (now 14) said a few days ago "mom, you don't do as much for holidays anymore ". My heart kind of sunk and I asked him if it bothered him. He said "oh no way, we still have tons of fun!" Sometimes we are needlessly guilted into overconsumerism.

[@Grwenhuhc]

My mom used to go all out and then stopped. Super disappointed. There’s something special about putting effort into holiday decor because your family loves it. I decorate for every holiday and I’ve gotten tons of decor for cheap at thrift stores and for free. I don’t think it costs much at all to decorate. I even make garland with felt. Super easy!

[@trishwsmom4289]

This is basically a great lesson in doing what makes you happy. If something becomes simply a chore and there’s no joy in it anymore then stop doing it…or just pull back as you say. I think it’s very common for parents to really go all out on holidays for their little ones and then dial it back a bit as their kids get older. It’s just a different phase of life. Of course, if you still love decorating and your kids are grown, keep doing it. If the older kids still love it they have to pitch in and help decorate. 😉

[@tastx3142]

I quit decorating for holidays after I no longer had my son living at home. Everyone else wants the decorations but nobody will help put them away. My son bought his first house and I gave him the holiday decorations that I had so whether he uses them or not doesn’t matter to me.

[@angelicajacobs584]

My mum did the same. Xmas was insane. But she'd do Valentine's month, Easter month, etc. it was a lot. But it was just her doing it and it got too much. She was just trying to make a lil fun and magic with the decor for us as kids. Now she's toned down a lot but it's key pieces that are beautiful.

[@s.a.w5493]

My kids are really little (2.5 yrs, 6mo, 6mo) and I have a lot of fun with it so it's also for me. It's nice to demark the year and look forward to something BUT I totally agree! At some point it's beneficial to scale back, especially as they get older. Helps them appreciate it and decide if they want to continue the traditions themselves or not.

[@Vestula]

The bar cart sound omg. "They're not coming over, honey!" I agree with all of it, but the built-ins are nice and can be made with a budget if you have the DIY skills.

[@lingodelfo5415]

I LOVED our bar cart as kid. NB! There was no alcohol, in fact, it was a foldable thing, and I got it out always when I got to my grandparents, as it was easily transformable into a two-stored house for my dolls

[@twothirdsanexplosive]

Thank you for constantly pushing for pragmatic design, reality of normal people's lives, and practicality of spaces 🙏

[@Nick_Lewis]

Oh I try! ❤

[@supernova622]

Well stated!

[@becci8099]

Yes exactly I love Nick for the “design as you need 364 days a week” and not for that one special occasion. For that I just rent spaces, cars or even dishes. It saves the headache of maintaining, storing and upkeep of items I may need max of 50 times in my entire life time… I.e. on the rare occasion, I need to host more than 6-8 people (my personal limit for people to host at home) I found a nice (not pretty but functional) community centre close to my home that I can use for a low rate, including cleaning

[@pebbleskirby-yu8kf]

“They’re not coming, honey” 😂 No to bar carts because dust. Like MAYBE a person ACTUALLY comes over and before you make them a drink you’ve gotta clean the glass that’s been sitting out for 6 months

[@suejames735]

Another poster said that she keeps her houseplants on hers. 😊 I have a bakers rack for mine, with one drawer.

[@mcraig57]

Good grief...was just looking at my bar stand and everything is covered with dust..I probably have the best stocked bar for miles around but the sad thing is I don't drink and never offer a drink to guests as drinking and driving is a no no...lol...but I still keep it...maybe for the dust?

[@maggienbob1304]

I love how pretty liquid bottles are and especially different wine & drinking glasses... but I don't drink! & I'd never want my guests to drink because i dont want my friends drinking & driving. So, yeah.. a pretty cart to store my collection of dust bunnies & dirty glasses. 😅

[@eliskan999]

@@maggienbob1304 I also love the glasses, I have several pretty wine glasses, but I dont drink, so mine were collecting dust as well. Recently I started using the glasses for non-alcoholic drinks, lemonades, ice tea etc when friends are over or I just want to have a nice evening by myself, it makes the drink special. I highly recommend (although I hate the hand washing after, lol )

[@chrissyt_artist1960]

😂😂🤣

[@9kaeve]

That creaking bar cart impression was spot on!

[@Nick_Lewis]

Here she comes with the gin and tonics! 😂

[@Mjao519]

It's always time for a cocktail 😂

[@cindykandolf2793]

We've just wrapped up the process of buying a new home, and I swear - the real purpose of those "towel ladders" is to let real estate agents hide the fact that the bathroom is so badly designed there isn't a place to put so much as a hand towel next to the sink.

[@Goddybag4Lee]

Guess they're good for the people who are super afraid to put up pegs with screws in the bathroom. I mean a ladder doesn't destroy the walls.

[@fluffytail6355]

Remember that it’s usually MEN who design floor plans. Men who have WOMEN cleaning up after them, doing laundry, keeping the place tidy. Remember THAT when you wonder why spaces don’t work! We need more female architects.

[@lucasbiaggini]

I live in an apartment with a windowless bathroom. The cheap bamboo towel ladder provides way more airflow to towels than a regular towel rack. Unless you only use your towels once before washing again, towel laders are a great way to hang them out to dry between uses. It's obviously not for storage.

[@HarrietofFire]

The short folks need us some footstools! Our feet don't touch the floor on all the tall & deep couches. also, putting feet up feels so nice! Not saying we need one for every seat though.

[@purselmer5931]

Bless your heart.

[@gusmonster59]

Like anything else - if YOU love or need it, it's fine. This more aimed at the people who think they have to follow every trend or buy things 'just in case' (that usually never happens) 😁

[@carolynv8979]

You generally need an ottoman OR a coffee table OR end tables, but NEVER all three.

[@irinafernandez207]

Yes! I don’t remember the last time I sat without having my feet up. I even have a foot stool at work. 😅

[@theprousteffect9717]

As someone who hates visual clutter, all of these open storage pieces are an easy "no" for me. They can look pretty in photos where everything is impeccably styled, but no one lives in a perfectly curated, styled environment. Thank you for always making the distinction between the fantasy we see in photos and what's functional in the real world.

[@kademelien9363]

For me it's the opposite, I love to see my stuff so I know what I have. Anything that bugs me is going away (like ebay). Sure I don't need my plunger to be seen but with my books and games and such I really like it.

[@colleenmccord4699]

Same visual clutter makes me anxious

[@raedorin979]

I fell for the trend and put up open shelving that ended up so ugly with all my books on them. I read a lot so they weren't dusty..... just UGLY! How do you store books with all the yuck

[@ros8986]

Proust effect - Greetings. On a possibly related note, you might like Goodbye Things, the new Japanese Minimalism by Fumio Sasaki. Available on audible.

[@tompw3141]

...except all those built-ins had lots of closed storage!

[@laurenbashoura9575]

I think my mom has mastered the “seasonal decor” changing - she swaps out a front door wreath to match the season, and has a little bowl on the mantle that she will put different things in for the seasons: eggs, pumpkins, pinecones, etc. She recently got some little mini trees that she puts on the porch, and decorated those to go with the season as well. And that’s about it! Just enough of a change to be fun, but not redecorating the whole space.

[@cariwaldick4898]

A little goes a long way. Too much and you risk having the grandma effect.

[@IExpectedBSJustNotThisMuchBS]

I like that easy sort of decorating. I have two wreaths-one for Christmas and one for the rest of the year so I don’t have to take the wreath hanger off the glass. I have a blueish green glass leaf dish that I liked because it was pretty and that’s what it was most of the year and then I’d decorated it with gourds at Thanksgiving and Christmas balls at Christmas. Different home and now it’s in the entrance and where I drop my keys.

[@patriciaanzelc5386]

@@cariwaldick4898hey I resemble that remark! I hope you are old enough to laugh at that 😂. Seriously, I think nowadays grandmas are anti decorating!

[@HikariTheGardevoir]

My mom always did the same growing up! She really only hung up wreaths during autumn and winter, and she'd just switch out the decorations in a few bowls/vases to fit the season! Oh, and get some ornamental bulbs in the spring like hyacinths, just to make the house smell like spring.

[@cariwaldick4898]

@@patriciaanzelc5386 No grands yet, but I'm hoping it won't be too long. I shop at a lot of estate sales, and the homes with all the collections--hoo boy! It's a warning to be careful what you keep. My weakness is craft items--yarn and fabric for crocheting and quilting, as well as dumb stuff I'm trying to repurpose. Seriously, I hate all those single use containers bound for the landfill, but I just can't reuse them all.

[@Michaela1942]

Dear Nick: Just to let you know that while I don't really need decor/decorating advice being very happy with what I have, I love to watch your videos. You are funny as hell and I get a big kick out of you. Hope you have great success in all your endeavors. Signed, a Jewish grandmother from California.

[@LauraLVTGW]

Italian grandmother in Maine (orig. from NY) YES!! Love Nicks humor!! Many blessings! 💖

[@Nick_Lewis]

Awww thanks both ❤❤

[@janicevin4207]

same for an oldy based in Vancouver! hoping to see you walking down the street to say hi!

[@BelleChanson0717]

I am an unabashed lover of my built-in shelves, but I also have a VAST personal library so the shelves are completely functional. It was actually less expensive for us to get custom built-ins than try to find pre-built shelves in sufficient quantity for our books!

[@cpotochny]

Yeah, built-in and shelves were designed for books, not trinkets!

[@JudgeHill]

same here :)

[@kittygoesWOOF]

@@cpotochny I agree almost entirely. However, there are sometimes awkward spaces or a need for a bookend/you want separation between the books, and you can have useful smaller items. Ideally they'd be meaningful in some way and not just there to be there. If you only have a few books and prefer a kindle or audiobooks or whatever, that's fine, you just don't need an entire bookshelf. If someone has a collection and it's meant to be displayed, shadow boxes, display cabinets, or even the skinny wall shelves can be done well. It needs to be neat and look generally cohesive. That's just my opinion. when people do go overboard, it's very cluttered and when it's there just to be there, it's very hollow.

[@sooziguru]

I agree whole-heartedly. My husband and I met when I was 40, and two human beings merging two lifetimes of books required both a sort and purge, as well as serious shelving. And I do love the look of vertical and horizontal shapes broken up by more organic shapes of vases and sculptural objects and plants and pottery that we have also collected. But that display combination means MORE shelving! Hahahahahaha! So good quality shelving has been a challenge in our older, smaller home that has three plain walls in the whole house! Meaning not broken up by large double hung windows and doorways. Whew!

[@lisagray1418]

I’ve got too many books to fill the built in bookcases my husband built me, but it is almost solely for books with a few pictures interspersed.

[@rexiemoto]

“Unless you really love the look of displaying your alcoholism”🤣🤣🤣 I never knew this was a thing until my real estate agent asked us to put away all the alcohol displayed in our wet-bar. 🤣🤣 Love the way you put it Nick💕

[@markrice4808]

Really fun to look at movies from 1950's and 1960's where every high-styled room had a "grog tray!" I read a book years ago where one society figure said, "a cocktail shaker is a kitchen implement!"

[@NicoleAZ145]

Oh wow, that will a problem if we ever sell. We have an entire basement bar with alcohol displayed on shelves and everything. Whoever buys our house will have to be a drinker, I guess. 😂

[@бронза.вафля.конус]

​@@NicoleAZ145you wouldn't take them with you?

[@ellasheridan7637]

I can relate. Didn't realise we were "displaying our alcoholism" until our 5 year old nephew was discussing the grape vine in our backyard and matter of factually said, "well, it's going to be a wine grape because you have so much wine" whilst pointing to where we store our wine 😅

[@steelcrown7130]

I cannot express this strongly enough: you and I have vastly different tastes and I tend toward the traditional, the used, the scruffy, the antique, BUT: honestly I subscribed to this channel, and I stay subscribed, because you are one of the most charming and articulate (and practical) communicators of taste I have even seen. I agree with most of your choices (as a spectator; remember I don't have many of the products you talk about) but the thing that keeps me coming back is you yourself. Never change!

[@buzzyanderson4131]

Agree 100%

[@colleenh5499]

Ditto!!

[@traceyyerxa7683]

I agree!!!!

[@jellydarling1008]

agree! happy you can spread the appreciation

[@vandakat]

Best personality!

[@kwitkow1001]

“Seasonal Industrial Complex” is such a funny and accurate term. I love that you question commercialism. Your commentary is hilarious. Great writing

[@EmpressCosplay]

I'm actually on the hunt for a vintage brass & glass bar cart at the moment - but for my plants! 😂 I think it's a gorgeous way of displaying them and also super easy to move when I am cleaning. As someone who's always propagating like... 5000 different things... I think I fall under the category of "a bar cart makes sense" 😂

[@C2C.]

I use bar carts for my plants, too. (The alcohol is put behind a cabinet.)

[@emmythemac]

Omg I love this idea! I just love the look of bar carts tbh, but this is a nice practical use

[@ninirossau2304]

can you call it a bar cart then ? isnt it a plant cart now. and I think that this is the best use. form meet function.

[@vaderladyl]

Yes they can be very useful for more than liquor bottles. I have one for my liquor and another for other purposes.

[@serephita]

I'm looking for a bar cart as well! Mostly because I keep a hot chocolate and tea station on my kitchen counter and I want my counter space back

[@Queen_ofWands]

We had a flood in the basement and lost quite a bit of stuff. In the end, it was a blessing in disguise because it made us really look at the things we lost and ask "Do we really need to replace it?" In the end we have learned to live with less. Especially now that retirement is a few years away, we are more mindful of not wanting to accumulate "stuff" - only to need to downsize again.

[@mkaltreider5322]

Funny and helpful - thanks Nick! I have a couple to add: - wine fridge (unless drinking a lot of wine all the time) - guest bedrooms (how often are guests overnight? just add a sleeper sofa and use that room for something you'll do often) - huge coffee tables, especially with sharp corners (why? just why?) - buffet tables or giant cupboards in dining room (prob don't remember what is even in there or use it)

[@pokelover02]

I use my buffet tables to hold our board games and card games. Love a good buffet table ❤

[@christinae30]

Sharp corners, everywhere (countertops vs child's head...) One of the big quests of my life! One of the things I comment on everytime someone is building, youtube or real life.

[@juliatarrel1674]

My nan had an open plan dining room/living room. She kept a very long buffet table/cupboard, with pendant lights above it. One side was the dining room, and it was the side with the doors & drawers. The other side was the living room, and the sofa had its back to the buffet. We all knew what was in it: the good cutlery, placemats, coasters, heirloom plateware (never to be touched) and best plateware. Everything but the heirloom stuff was in use. She used the buffet table well, I think.

[@KateWilliam75]

Could you do the imitation of the bar cart being rolled out and sqeaking into the room for us again?? I just LOVED that!! 🤣 I just love you and your channel too Nick!

[@murielbaith5445]

😆

[@traceyu6213]

I live in a four season climate and since I’ve grown older, I find that adding seasonal flower arrangements to my home is so much more enjoyable and more elegant than other decor. I do get out my Scottish & Irish wool blankets in autumn and swap them out for cotton knit in spring.

[@swiinka]

Oddly enough living in Ireland you need blankets all year long because even summers here are mostly cold :D

[@traceyu6213]

@@swiinka I lived near Coventry England for two years. The weather was consistently mild year ‘round compared to the fluctuations of the Midwest USA. Very cold winters and hot summers. I prefer the UK. 😊

[@swiinka]

@@traceyu6213 Ireland is a bit worse than England in terms of the weather because it's super windy here. But having grown up on the continent I do appreciate lack of extreme temperatures :)

[@SarahlovesSerge]

I agree, showing the seasons in your flowers is makes much more sense to me

[@pilarrrrr7000]

That’s a very tasteful way to do it!

[@kristenpaz]

As someone who hates dusting, built ins look like a nightmare to me, but I’ve always felt guilty for not having one. Thank you for making me feel better!!

[@jenmatt1923]

My grandmother had so many built-ins. Shelves and china rails? Not sure what you call them, but they run along the top of your room to display collector plates and mugs and things. She'd be considered a maximalist today. Anyway, all her exposed trinkets made me cringe, and I am a minimalist with everything stored out of sight because of that.

[@kristenpaz]

@@jenmatt1923 Same! My grandmother loves antiques and trinkets. I don’t think she ever dusted. I have a few small decorations in my home, but they are easy to dust. I definitely identify as a minimalist because I’m very conscious of what I bring into my home.

[@juwairiyahummabdullah]

I just realised how messy it would look if i had one and how frequently i would have to dust it 😅

[@juwairiyahummabdullah]

@@jenmatt1923 reminds me of my grandma, and the funky candle art she had up there for as long as i remember 🤣

[@glitterchibi3041]

Same! I am so bad at remembering to dust. Those shelevs would have given me asthma at some point haha I have minimalist decor preference too, which helps with the dust problem 😂

[@mariannem8419]

Seasonal is so much fun. I appreciate when my relatives and friends do it. They save me time and money.

[@celinepope]

Hahaha!!! That's the attitude I have. I mean, I don't live on my own but the most seasonal I do is put out my fair trade, fall colored table basket and a pumpkin or apple candle in the fall lol.

[@thatxdamnxgirl7416]

Your channel and you as a person is such a breath of fresh air. I'm so glad you aren't afraid to actually be completely honest and critical when talking about trends/fads and aren't constantly promoting the idea that we all need to constantly buy to stay current with trends. You actually are some of the few designers I see on KZbin that encourages quality items/furniture and FUNCTIONAL LIVING SPACES. I swear I see so many people decorate for "aesthetics" nowadays and turn their spaces into what looks like a camera backdrop. It looks beautiful but it's not functional!

[@annalawrence824]

Our seasonal decor: We have a landscape poster scene over our fireplace, in a nice frame. I change the landscape to match the seasons (winter, autumn, summer, spring.) Super easy to store each poster print. Ive also not seen others do it yet, so I love it! 😂

[@valkyriesardo278]

I have a forest landscape that is ambiguous as to season because the artist was clever in his choice colors. It even squeaks by for Winter because of the tiny white flowers on the forest floor. It is printed on cloth stretched over a spare wood frame. When I held it up in the store, I noticed that is semi translucent so I bought two. They are large enough to fit within my sash window frames that do not have a pretty view. They create a marvelous trompe l'oeil effect. At a glance, it appears my windows look out upon a lovely forest glade that is softly glowing with sunlight. The window screens hide the ugly view, provide privacy, and provide sufficient light, as much as one could have with a standard roll down shade. From the outsider's viewpoint, the window looks covered by an ordinary window shade. I did need to add a cafe curtain to hide a portion of window. But the draped portion of the window is a benefit in itself because I do occasionally need to open those windows for ventilation. It is easier to move the drape than the window screen.

[@jellydarling1008]

love that idea, simple one time investment that's classy.

[@fardja]

I'm doing something similar by the entryway with a set of framed prints!it's a great way to change it up without the bulk or big expense, it started with not wanting to add even more to the Christmas decor pile

[@pilarrrrr7000]

That’s so clever!

[@RebeccaTreeseed]

That is clever! I will find a way to borrow your idea, I haven't used the same frame :)

[@dianal.5384]

I hate clutter and when I see all these beautifully styled open shelving units, bar carts or open shelving in kitchens I think to myself, “ someone has to dust all that s$&t!” Not for me! I have also pared down my Xmas decor to something minimal. A small pencil Christmas tree and a wreath. I avoid going into HomeSense for that very reason!

[@arnvonsalzburg5033]

This! I love cluttered Ghibli rooms but being allergic do dust this is nothing for me 😀

[@labachaterairlandesa]

I hate open kitchen shelving. I just think about all the dust and grease splatters that could be landing on those dishes. It seems so unsanitary to me.

[@Jasmine-vy8ig]

I don't like any clutter clean always dust, and also open shelvings not for me. Clean house clean mind. I want time for myself❤

[@UnoHoo1]

Yes, they do! My mom was famously (in our home, that is) known to say, “that is nothing but a dust catcher!” I miss her.

[@бронза.вафля.конус]

​@@labachaterairlandesadon't be ridiculous. Anyone with open shelving in their kitchen clearly only cooks with a microwave

[@stephanieschwartz5214]

"Seasonal Industrial Complex" "If you want to display your alcoholism...." Nick, you are a stitch. Every one of these talking points was spot on. Here's my personal "don't need." Years ago we renovated the kitchen and when done there was a fairly large space in the center (it's a big-ish kitchen) so we just got an IKEA stainless steel cart that sits in the center of the room and functions as an island. It is the perfect size for the space. Not too big, not too small. Over the years some people have said "you should build a little island in the center" and my thought is "why the hell should I?" It's not needed. That cart has always been absolutely perfect in size and function and aesthetics.

[@jsg4192]

Always love your videos but this is one of my favorites so far. Really appreciate you raising the point about over consumption - it's wasteful, polluting, expensive, and you're exactly right: we just don't need this stuff! I'm sure there are whole academic papers on the sociology around why we have leaned so far into trying to be perfect hosts with perfect homes, but it actually helps to have a designer assure you it isn't needed aesthetically or otherwise. 10/10 Thank you! ❤

[@bethanyclifford1811]

Another super easy seasonal decor that requires no year after year storage: flowers/greenery! I like to have a vase that I swap out with fresh or dried flowers/grasses etc to match the season. I get the flowers from my garden and once their done they go in the compost!

[@annalieff-saxby568]

I always have a container of seasonal fruit on display in my living room, as well as flowers, cut greenery, and houseplants. I use almost no commercial decorations: Christmas is ivy trails tied up with red knitting wool and lots and lots of candles.

[@melanieluh2516]

"BE MINDFUL OF WHAT SERVES YOU" Best guidance ever! You nailed it in this one. Stores already have fall decor coming in and it's May. And oh my gosh when the extra company shows up once in five years. I'll haul in the patio chairs. I've donated 10 bins of holiday decor (10 16inch Santa clauses and too many nutcrackers to count) and can't wait to not spend time decorating for the next season.

[@JamieM470]

Me too! I donated and gave away boxes of holiday decor when I began decluttering years ago, and I've never missed it. I don't have small children though; my children are all grown with families & homes of their own. I don't miss storing the big boxes & bins, I don't miss unpacking and re-packing, cleaning all that stuff.....and I don't miss the cluttered, busy look of it. I think the older I get, the more I crave easy-to-clean simplicity and less unnecessary clutter and work.

[@thatjillgirl]

My husband and I go estate sale shopping. There is always an obscene amount of Christmas decorations. People buy waaaaay too many Christmas decorations.

[@beverlyharrison7949]

​@@thatjillgirl agree on holiday decor. Have downsized to two totes for fall & Christmas. Gave 7 ft tree & decorations to kids, ( I had to have their help to put it up every yr ) usually go to their home for Christmas anyway.

[@vociferonheraldofthewinter2284]

I couldn't get the family's cooperation or enthusiasm going for the holiday stuff, so it was always just me. I finally threw up my hands and said, "Guys, I'm tired. I you don't care, then neither do it. No more holiday crap." They called my bluff. But I wasn't bluffing. Honestly, I had been tired of it for some time and felt quite liberated and relieved when I stopped. After three dead holiday seasons, they staged an intervention. They all admitted that they did love the holiday cheer and confessed that they missed it. They wanted their season back. I said, sure. But I'm NEVER doing this alone again. Thus began our holiday tradition of setting up the freaking cheer. THE FAMILY. Not 'mom.' Before, they could all shove off by saying, "This is all YOU. Nobody else cares about this crap but YOU. You're the one doing this to yourself." Well, that didn't last. I got a much needed break and then I got much needed help.

[@intentionallymadi1843]

I think the points about end tables and huge open shelving built-ins contain a piece of really crucial advice: design is about problem solving. Yes, it's about beauty too, but that's not the whole thing. If something doesn't work for your real life, that means it isn't good design, because it isn't designed FOR YOU. That's why I think it's so beneficial to purchase things for your home slowly so you can actually see where the pain points are. It's way better to make do with what you have and then see what you're really missing - maybe you're always frustrated that you don't have somewhere convenient for your drink, maybe you are regularly hosting more people than can comfortably fit in your living room and your dining room chairs are just too heavy to be moving around all the time. Then you can solve YOUR specific problems to make your home more functional and enjoyable to spend time in.

[@suejames735]

Well said!! I need to declutter......the problem is : my husband!! Partly, anyway......lol. I don't know how to get him to agree to things. Smh What usually happens is......down the road, he MIGHT agree!! I want to declutter NOW!! At least he knows stuff is an issue!! 😐 I guess there's hope!! P.S. He tends to buy stuff on the spur of the moment AND the "as seen on TV" products......grr!!

[@dcoughla681]

Absolutely agree! Good design should problem solve. This is particularly important in the bathroom & kitchen.

[@MrsThollo]

Wish I could pin this!! I bought a small condo (purposely) and people couldn't believe how long it took me just to buy furniture. When I did, it suited me and my sons' needs and lifestyle and EVERYone loves it.

[@vociferonheraldofthewinter2284]

You are correct, Madi! I first solve a practical problem on paper in the most functional way possible, then find a way to elevate the form to meet the function.

[@MCFarrell]

We are in the process of building a new house. My husband has actually said we should just take everything we own with us and sort it out after we move in. SMH. ​@@suejames735

[@madeleine5313]

This is so eerie! I’m currently in a gut/ reno project for my living room. My husband and I debated on having a customised media console built (like as you described) and I had this gnawing feeling in the back of my mind saying “but what are you going to put on the shelves? The sea shell you collected from the Caribbean? Random objects?” And I quickly realised that it was going to be unnecessary (for our lifestyle) and create a distraction whilst watching movies. So we’ve gone for a mild japandi feel instead. Everything is neatly stored behind a minimalist scandi tv bench. The main focus on the room is the sofa & lighting. So far it’s looking very polished but yet still inviting. Love your content as always! Love from Norway 🇳🇴

[@lisajaws8514]

All of this! And then someone has to dust all the books/knick-knacks/picture frames/seashells/vases etc etc etc. Hide all of the things and showcase the really special stuff.

[@diannt9583]

In my case.... books. But I've been buying books for the last fifty years, even if I downsized many of them when I moved here 5 years ago. But I decided against a built-in anyway.

[@missg.5940]

I use my grandmother’s tea cart as my nightstand. Books, glasses, lamp, phone, magazines, snacks etc.

[@1122skates]

I use my end tables and side tables for lamps so I need those. Drinks go on my coffee table. I decorate for the seasons because I have a little interior designer inside of me wanting to come out so season change means I get to decorate. It’s fun and it relaxes me to do it every season.

[@maryinthemaking7211]

Nick, this was the best! Cracking up over the bar carts. Thank you for validating my stance on Holiday decorating. In the past I have actually felt bad about not being an organized holiday decorator. Like my families happiness depends on well labeled totes of gaudy glam, unpacked and packed at just the right seasonal transition. Whew!! Over that! Thank you Nick.

[@rdrydnghdwolfe1396]

The sound effects of wheeling in the bar cart!

[@jpp7783]

@@rdrydnghdwolfe1396 YES! I am in a coffee shop and heard myself maniacally laughing out loud.

[@lormor460]

😂😂 That bar cart sound affects got me, too! I loved this video. Also, Nick, I like your new sofa and pillows! I liked your gray sofa but I loved 🥰 the gray and blue pillows you used to have. Hope you were able to keep them for another space!

[@pjperdue1293]

And I love Nick's idea of switching out your scents like candles instead; it's so subtle. Ticky-tacky holiday decor is too in-your-face for me.

[@Amira_Phoenix]

Seasonal decor: it's like living in the Sims game, sometimes the phone rings and announces that you should be more in touch with the season

[@TheRealCarrieBrown]

I love how you give everyone permission to do what works for them / makes them happy, regardless of your personal opinions. Up until 5 years ago I did zero seasonal decorating. Not even Christmas. Then I moved from Seattle to Connecticut and after that first Thanksgiving I decided to brighten up the space for winter with some deep red accents. I had SO. MUCH. FUN. putting it all together and loved being in my new home even more. It stayed up for 3 months, and then I decided to replace it with spring colors. Brought me so much joy - the process, the mood, the change, the creativity. So 3 months later I went to summer, and then in late September did Fall. I do not do any holidays, but do change to the seasons accent colors every 3 months. Throws, pillows, florals, etc. I feel like I get a new house every 3 months, it feels fresh and exciting, it doesn't take much work now I have everything, and it means everything gets cleaned on the regular. I have the space to store it all and buy decent stuff that will last for years, so it's not spending more and more money every year. Here and there I'll buy a new piece and take an old piece to a consignment store so someone else can enjoy it. I host a Girls Day for my friends every month and they all love to see the seasons decor change. It's not practical for many people for many reasons, but it makes me so happy I'm not about to stop.

[@fardja]

I'm the same way, I get a little tired of the look and palate of my space so I try to change pillow covers, flower arrangements, scents, and a few other things to keep it fresh. I love that you've found ways to make it sustainable too, I think it can get out of hand when people are swapping everything they own, like, nobody needs a christmas themed spatula and a different one for Halloween, etc.

[@raqueltello8443]

I love doing this too! I keep it pretty minimal to swapping florals, blankets, throw pillows, and candle scents. But I agree that even these small changes make it feel like a new home ❤

[@anonz975]

IMO Christmas decor matters more in places with long harsh winters. It cheers folks up especially if it is dark/cold outside (which was the original point of Winter Solstice/Yule to begin with).

[@MCFarrell]

I was never as much a Christmas freak as my husband, but I'm pretty bad. We designed our new house in a way that makes sure our ceiling is high enough for our Christ.as tree. Well, one of our four trees, anyway. 😅

[@kdbw3]

This is my favorite video you have uploaded to date! For some reason, in this video you seemed very compassionate and empathetic toward the viewers. I love that you kept emphasizing that there was no need to worry about decorating homes to look like magazine pages! Best advice ever! Be yourself and be mindful!!

[@soxiad]

As a parent I get so much "mom guilt" for not having the mental headspace to decorate my entire house for every season like I see people do on social media. For ages I've been assuming it's a failing on my part and trying to organize better so I can keep up with the seasons. But this video made me thin for just that extra second on WHY I want to do that - it turns out I really don't, nor do I need to - THANK YOU!!!! xx

[@heatherknopp3723]

YES! Silence your inner critic and release the false guilt! Do what works for YOU and your family, and ignore everyone else. Your sanity will be more beneficial to your kids than seasonal decor!

[@kimu3319]

Same here❤

[@ashleymitrick2575]

Me: here is a few neon balls on my house plants... There all set... Balls live on house plants until spring because they are "new years and spring colors" tada! 😂 Decorating full filled

[@huson-7wk]

My bathroom towel🪜 is not for "displaying towels". I use it as a towel bar/rack for the towels I use everyday . There are enough rungs to hang and dry my bath, hand towels and bath mat. I find it a very appropriate and functional piece in my bathroom with more space than the towel bar, where basically you only have room to hang one towel.

[@xy-lk8go]

dont be triggered, he said if u love it, keep it

[@jesseostone386]

It’s so refreshing to hear you say things like, “If you love it, go for it.” It’s one thing to point out the necessity of things, personal preference, and space accommodations, it’s another to push one’s own style preferences as gospel. Thank you for being you.

[@steveparker2938]

Seasonal Decor! My husband and I use to re-decorate for every season and every major holiday. It took 2 days to get the stuff down, cleaned and put away and another 2 days to get the "new" stuff out and displayed. After he died I decided to PURGE all that stuff. It's still an ongoing process after 2 years. You just gave me the courage (and permission) to get rid of most of what's left and just decorate for Christmas and to keep that simple. For our 21 years together I loved that man but HATED it when it came time to do the seasonal, holiday change over which was his thing, not mine. No more buying things just because it's the right size, shape or color. Only things I truly love will come into my home and be displayed.

[@anitaholmes8201]

An older family member (retired contractor) expressed concern to me after visiting the umpteenth home with towel / lap robe ladders. He was puzzled as to why everyone seemed to have seriously unsafe ladders in their home. Since the ladders were out, he figured they had just changed out a bulb or were fixing to do so as soon as we left, and that could be dangerous.

[@jenkenj]

Hahaha my 70+ year old Dad is a general contractor and I could see him asking the same thing

[@trishna_6815]

love it! 😅

[@jillpetro7430]

Nick - you are hysterical - if I'm ever in a bad mood all I have to do is listen to you - AND you've helped me learn so much about interior design! Wish you could help me in my master bedroom redesigning it!😍

[@crystallionaire]

100% agree with the seasonal decor. I live in a tiny apartment so storage is a big issue. No way I could store alllll the decorations for every holiday so I chose to only decorate for one holiday that brings me the most happiness ❤ 🎄

[@juliebrooke6099]

I really enjoyed your comments about the 32 people coming to visit (or not). Here in England we don’t have much of a summer usually so the ‘garden’ chairs are primarily for extra visitors at Christmas. English comedian Peter Kay does a totally true to life story about seeing families walking the streets on Christmas Day carrying their ‘emergency chairs’ with them on their way round to family for dinner.

[@howdoyouknowninakatz]

Re Peter Kay I know which bit you are talking about. Some guy with a ciggie in his mouth carrying two dining chairs down the street.

[@mangos2888]

The bar cart is something I consider seasonal. My bff has a huge house and hosts nearly every 2 weeks andshe uses the bar cart. Outside in the summer to reduce opening/closing the ac. When all our kids were little, the bar cart was in the kids basement area in the winter with snacks and waters while the adults were upstairs. But she's the only person I've known who justified a bar cart in my world. 😂 I love your attack on them 😂😂

[@ThatDonna]

Your mental gymnastics around hosting a sudden 32 people was totally me...I have never hosted more than 4 additional couples, plus kids. I always splurge on a babysitter for the little kids, set-up a chill space for the older kids, and that's it. If I need to host a larger group, I'm going to a venue. So true, you don't need a cache of folding chairs!

[@jennasamuel8637]

Nick was in a hilarious mood when he made this 😂 Love you Nick, and thanks as always for the tasteful and experienced advice! “They’re NOT COMING honey!!” “Then you realize that 32 people don’t even like YOU…” “I like to light some of my favorite candles-I’ll link them down below if you’re interested-…”

[@rambrosius7006]

I appreciate the distinction between "media decisions that sell products" and "people decisions that serve people" in your videos. I think that is one of the reasons why I (personally) dislike minimalism and simplistic designs in real homes... it feels like product placement rather than something that brings a person home imo. A lot of people, when getting a new home or renovating their space, try so hard to get the photogenic look without thinking about what they're using, at least from my perspective.

[@sophieboudreau5733]

Nick, you crack me up! 😂 Also, agree with your points - especially the "let's overhaul the entire house" seasonal thing. No time (or budget) for all that!

[@jillcnc]

I'd love to see a whole video devoted to the "Seasonal Industrial Complex," LOL!! I have a relative who does this and I've always wished I could be like her. Thanks for giving me the imprimatur to NOT HAVE TO.

[@yourfavoritefrog]

I'm the one who will change everything , including the pillows and kitchen towels ! I just love it ! It's the child in me , I guess !

[@42ayla]

I love how you get us thinking about things we live with simply because we always have. I live in a small house and ironically things that aren't necessary for others keep me going while must haves for them are a definite no. For example having end tables as opposed to a coffee table. A coffee table is the perfect height for our dog to knock everything off with her tail, it's big enough for my husband to drop things on 'for now' and it's in the middle of the walking space. The end tables are off to the side and more individual so they can be tidied faster, the dog doesn't access them as easily and best of all if my husband wants to put his pants there 'for now' he'll be stuck holding his drink in his lap. And the one end table is actually an old ottoman we were going to toss. What can I say, I'm a rebel. LOL.

[@653j521]

I would put coffee table on the list of don't have to buy, too. An end table where you don't have to scoot or lean forward is easier unless what you really want is a place for stacks of books as props for your other unnecessary dust catchers. I could see it in a setting where someone on a sofa can't reach an end table but then, only a small coffee table with nothing on it. If a person only uses short end tables next to a sofa, and doesn't consider trying it in front of an armrest or some such for accessibility, some sofas would be a problem for using end tables. You have to consider human anatomy and which direction an arm bends. 🙂

[@SheilaEnglish2]

“Put his pants there for now” My sympathies to you 🫣🤣

[@suejames735]

Ikr about the husband and pants!! 😂 Mine also puts shorts,socks,slippers in our LR. Smh. I'm NEVER gonna let him put his boxers in here!! 😅

[@jillyapple1]

My sister has a studio apartment and she changes a few things seasonally: A throw pillow, a doll from her childhood collection (changes monthly as she has 12), and which small mementos she wants to display. Takes ten-fifteen minutes to swap things out. I like that she does that.

[@Grwenhuhc]

I’m a housewife lol so changing the decor for every single holiday is a MUST for me 😂🥰 I LOVE this channel!! Keep up the amazing work!

[@kathykoehler8753]

I love what you said about the ottomans and foot stools. I feel the same way. I really hate that people think they need a couch, loveseat and two chairs minimum because they are sold in stores as a set, (with at least 3 tables, too). The older I get the more I think my home needs to only reflect the way we live, not how other people think we should live.

[@janreed99]

I. Didn't. Decorate. For. Christmas. Last. Year. Didn't miss any of it. Felt peaceful. I looked at other people's decorations and enjoyed the holiday remotely.

[@mangos2888]

I've actually considered this once my kids finish high school. 2 more years 🎉

[@653j521]

@@mangos2888 Yeah, it doesn't work well with kids. They love to decorate and they bring home masses of stuff from school. When they come back from college they will be upset if you got rid of their symbols of childhood. And then there might be grandchildren and the story begins again. You would have to be very strict in your Grinchness in the face of a child's sadness over your rejection of an ornament with a photo of the kid, to maintain the status of the grandparent who "doesn't like Christmas decorations."

[@vacuumblink2300]

🙄

[@janreed99]

@@vacuumblink2300 your emoji really hurts me down deep

[@hazelem1266]

Unless the Christmas tree is at our home, I don’t put up a tree. Too much effort to take it down. Plus I’m a lazy housewife. I’d rather cook.

[@fidelogos7098]

As an empty-nester, I went from a huge house to a small townhome and while I occasionally miss my blue damask side chairs and the 1930s Chippendale Highboy, I find I have much more time for not-housekeeping. I would describe my current décor as spartan. It's simple, functional and easy to keep clean. And I find a lot of peace in that. I wish I had discovered earlier that things own you, you don't own them.

[@melissamoeller9608]

🎉I love this! Down with pretentiousness and massive retail greed. Be real and honest about what is practical and truly serves your lifestyle. This is my first time watching one of your videos. Your humor and candor are gold! I really enjoyed this content, especially as I’ve recently moved into a much smaller place with almost no storage.

[@nacmegfeegle2310]

Yeah, one thing I learned in Covid times was that it is possible (and wonderful) to skip all of the holidays stuff. I love my family and friends but need no decor for those times of year. It all goes by so fast and you just have one mess after another to spend your time cleaning up. And we don't give gifts either, my kids are adults- when they were small we WAY over did that and I do not think it was good for them. I give them stuff all year anyway if I think they can use it.

[@betsylatham5023]

Love this video! So much of what we see online isn’t practical for many people and just makes us feel badly that we aren’t measuring up to the “ideal”. Refreshing to hear “if you like it -great, but if you don’t have it/need it, you can skip it”.

[@Bubreherro]

“Then you realize you don’t even like 32 people”…. 🙋🏽‍♀️

[@Nick_Lewis]

Same same.

[@triciag3311]

Ain't that the truth!?

[@amazonbookworm1154]

Made me chuckle. 🤣

[@Chelseabee55]

Me planning a whole ass wedding

[@sarachitwood1247]

🙋🏼‍♀️

[@victorialove9104]

I do switch out some of my decor by season not holiday. I'm old and I've collected lots of stuff from my 5 years of traveling the world as a youth. Mostly art and artifacts of different cultures. I've continued to collect art and both my husband and myself are artists so there's that. If I didn't rotate my collection every three months we would never see some of our beautiful things. I learned this seasonal rotation practice from the Japanese. I totally agree with all you pointed out including changing your entire decor for every holiday. I have to laugh at myself because I was thinking of getting a bar cart. Thankfully you have convinced me that I don't need it. 😁❤

[@aprildriesslein5034]

Thanks for validating my minimal to non-existent holiday decorations. I like holiday decorating in theory, but I hate storing junk all year, and I really hate how much disposable decor people buy.

[@upriver7047]

Thank you for saying it's not necessary to decorate for every single holiday! I like my style and colors and I don't want to put everything away and drag out a bunch of other stuff. Usually a small table scape or a little holiday accent in a room is plenty in acknowledgement. Especially since my children are all grown up now.

[@nailguncrouch1017]

I love seasonal decorations, I like it in stores, in public spaces, and in other people's homes. And in a very small amount in my own home.

[@abbycole7485]

OMG thank you: seasonal entire change out isn’t necessary! Hate all that seasonal crap. I love built ins! If I could have one, I would use it as…a bookshelf for all my books 🤯😂

[@jackieknits61]

I have bookshelves in every room in the house but the bathroom. For the books. I like it that way.

[@KiraFriede]

I like to change up my decoration and seasons are just a good way to do it.

[@soulaudacity555]

I totally agree with not changing out your entire home based on the seasons. I love my coastal themes and color palette in my home and I don’t want to change it, but I feel peer pressured when I walk into home goods😆. Thanks for the confirmation that I don’t need to change it!👌🏽

[@suejames735]

I love "At Home", which is a home decor super store. Think:Pier One mixed with Target. We only have one here in Minnesota. Thankfully we live about 35-45 minutes away. 😊

[@lainsimple5285]

“Seasonal industrial complex” 😂 years ago I used to do the whole home switchover for each season. Now I have a very minimalist collection of some store bought and handmade decorations. I layer them over my existing decor and it works out perfectly!

[@tinaoakland3224]

I love your candor, your design talent, and your brilliant humor. I have learned so much from your videos. Where have you been all my life? Actually you weren’t born for a good part of my life… I am older than dirt. Keep up the great work improving people’s lives one room at a time.❤

[@hereforit2347]

Nightstands are functional and sometimes necessary, especially for lighting. They also help incorporate the bed which is the biggest thing in the room by making it look less isolated. Unless you insist on symmetry you can always put something different on each side of the bed.

[@meman6964]

A place to hide CPAP machine, Rx bottles, lotion, eye mask, book to read B4 sleep.... Nightstand has WORK to do

[@hereforit2347]

@@meman6964: Precisely.

[@pameladwyer2244]

I agree! Especially to hold a decent reading lamp, with three lighting levels. Most wall lamps emit a pathetic amount of light, if you are a reader.

[@TwoNineteenTrain]

My solution to nightstands in a smallish bedroom was to create two bedside tables of identical style but different sizes using black walnut serving trays ordered from Amazon (and some minimalist furniture legs). The "guest" side of the bed nearest the far wall uses a tray 12" wide and 20" deep, which is enough to create a small walking corridor on that side, have a bedside lamp, and place for small personal items. On "my" side of the bed nearest the door and closest to closet, I have a 20" x 20" tray, which is big enough for a lamp, charging stand, a book or two, and a place for small items such as rings, watches, etc. Other than the size differences, the tray tables are identically designed, look very symmetrical and matched, and have a very light, open appearance.

[@hereforit2347]

@@TwoNineteenTrain: That sounds very nice!

[@dustycrowb0nes]

Thank you for this video. It is important to bring attention to fast fashion tendencies creeping into interior design by offering bad solutions for temporary problems that are often not even problems.

[@TellaQ]

I thought the towel ladder would be an excellent way to have guest towels, but I decided it was just clutter in the bathroom. I decided to store my favorite go-to blankets in the living room. Easy to grab when I feel like chilling on the couch. Turn out to be a much better use for me.🥰

[@Fluffycara]

I was just about to comment how I thought the towel ladders were for blankets lol. I have one in my living room. For me I felt it was useful and functional because we lived somewhere without a lot of storage. We have a free roam rabbit who loves to chew blankets. I got a handmade crocheted blanket that I love but didn't use because of my rabbit. So I use the ladder to store and display blankets, and it also keeps them away from my rabbit.

[@KeenKoala115]

This is the most genius use for that. A collection of blanket for different warmth levels or textures for different purposes to share or not to share a blanket.

[@markrice4808]

Everyone has been trained in childhood to automatically look for the "real towels" hidden in a cabinet--not the velour ones that won't absorb water and feel slimy! You instinctively look for the hidden stash of almost ragged examples in even the most elegant home you may visit

[@devindanidevage3475]

I thought the towel ladder is used to dry towels which are not that dirty to go in the washing machine

[@wallybistrich3474]

​@devindanidevage3475 I was astonished, too. It is not ecological to use a towel only once and even then, wet textiles which don't go directly into the washing machine should dry to avoid mold.

[@valkyriesardo278]

Great video on an important but rarely mentioned topic, necessity vs convention, aka "Does your dining room actually need a dining table?" I think its important to consider how many people live in the home and how many guests might be expected. I live alone on fixed income so I cannot afford to entertain with any grandeur. Goodbye dining table. Goodbye king size bed. I don't need more than one very comfortable seat for relaxing. I like home improvement DIY so mainly I need work tables, work chairs, task lighting and closed storage for tools and materials. You mention open storage and that is a pet peeve of mine, open shelving units that eat up more space than they provide. I would like to add it can be best to obtain duplicates of a necessity. Prime example, the vacuum cleaner, get one for each floor in the home so you aren't lugging the one monster up and down the stairs. Another peeve is guest towels and guest soap. Friends of the family never want to use those out of consideration of their host. And who invites a guest who is not a friend?

[@bethanijade6867]

Thanks Nick, I really needed to be talked out of the bar cart for the one or two cocktails I make in a month 🤣 they're just so pretty 🥺

[@LuLu-xs4sh]

I very much enjoyed how particularly dark & salty some of these observations are! Every once in a while, it's so healthy and refreshing to add a slightly acidic dose of good taste to the sugary decor extras we are all told we desperately need to add for over-consumption. (I enjoy all your videos, btw; but especially love it when you allow your sharper tongue to survive the edit ; )

[@prolifepac2008]

Oh my gosh Nick - You Kill Me! You're so funny - "They're not comin, honey - they're not coming!" Hah! You always put a smile on my face while talking me down from my guilt from not having any decorating sense.

[@EyeLean5280]

This is a fantastic video! Good decor and furnishings are a joy but unnecessary consumerism is bad for your wallet and the environment, plus it doesn't add any extra happiness to an already nice home. ALSO, I laughed out loud when you joked about folks displaying their alcoholism. That was my dad all over! SO proud of his home bar! Well, I was telling my playmates on the playground at recess that my parents would divorce before they knew it themselves. Moral... we make ourselves far more transparent to others than we realize.

[@lesliehahn51]

:) HIlarious - I concur!

[@bettyegilliam]

At 73 I’ve decided to furnish my house exactly as I want, but it is hard to give up some of the must have ideas. I don’t entertain much any more and I got rid of the dining table. I can serve a buffet and put my nesting tables around if I need.

[@nancyandrews2460]

I live in Maryland with all the seasons and you reminded me I need to appreciate my beautiful deck to sit on with my husband and not worry about what everyone else is doing! Fall I love but it comes quick with winter on its heels; we planted wild flower seeds, still blooming each week fun watching. Thanks much Nick glad I discovered you. Little lady in Baltimore County, MD

[@beverlyharrison7949]

Nick, your no nonsense style ideas are great. Your humor keeps me watching for next video. Recently down sized to a studio. Packed my favorite things first, threw in necessities & looked at what was left. Whew... I was amazed. Boxed most up for charity shops, gave some to friends/family. Month in & happily living in my tiny space. Each of our studios looks different, because we have what we NEED.

[@judithblack950]

Thank you for all the laughs. You did change my mind about wanting a bar cart.

[@Nick_Lewis]

I mean I like them, but they aren’t needed.

[@Bubreherro]

I love a good floating drawer as a nightstand, especially since I have a low heater on the wall and the legs of a table wouldn’t fit anyway. Floating drawer on one side, vanity table on the other 😊

[@Nick_Lewis]

I love a floating shelf. Sometimes it’s all you need and have space for.

[@katarinawikholm5873]

@@Nick_Lewis We need an episode on the upside of floating shelves. I’m using a floating shelf + a Skagerack 2-legged wallmounted sidetable creating a vanity/mini-desk in my bedroom

[@colleenarthur8472]

I loved this content. I inherited a 1930's 2 story home in a flood/hurricane prone area. Four of our 5 kiddos still live with us. I am constantly decluttering. I am all about furniture that is small, compact, multipurpose, sneaky! Need I mention that the house came with only 2 closets? One is a coat closet, and the other in a bedroom. I also inherited some of the furniture, which I have to say was exceptionally constructed and has stood up to at least 4 generations, with a little love. Before thinking of bringing a piece home, I am looking at the materials and construction, dimensions, and functionality. Our coffee table is solid maple, two tiered, round, and petite.

[@jussarafernandes2392]

I totally agree that the seasonal decor consuming is overwhelming, the adds and KZbinrs make you think you must need it… and we DON’T need any of it.

[@Katie-rq7bv]

bar carts are a great test run if you think you want open shelving. The DUST on those things is the best argument for not taking the door off your cabinets.

[@lina5979]

“We think we need all this amounts of seating because we got all these people coming, and they’re not coming honey.” I felt very attacked with that statement but I really needed to hear that. Thanks for the tough love, Nick ❤

[@buyimncube2588]

Hahaha that's true

[@schw0373]

I've fallen into the trap of wanting a lot of these items for the same "aspirational" reasons you've mentioned. I want my home to reflect a lifestyle I'll know I'll never have. Especially the bar cart--I have one with several bottles of booze, and it looks nice...but I don't even drink anymore.

[@dawnreneegmail]

Recently enjoyed a KZbin on our consumerism and consumption... my comment there remarks getting GNP emphasized in social studies in middle school! Recognizing how we use stuff is the focus of the doc, like to keep preoccupied or satisfy the hunter gatherer in us ( personally, I cannot do any auctions as I WILL WIN that penny pencil for $100🤦🏼‍♀️‼️) or any other human frailty slash character defect we might land on. It's the unpleasant aftermath of such excesses we want to walk away from. The sooner that term in throw away does not exist we'll be on a reality based playing field. Good on you slogging down the learn as we go trail✌🏼

[@Noreenlee1]

The squeaking of the bar cart -- loved it.

[@deannajunkin3696]

This year I decided not to do the whole-house seasonal change-overs. I am simplifying everything in my life that is under my control. I have always been a "sweat the small stuff" type of person and this change has been so freeing. I am pretty sure no one in my family has missed the decor changes or has even noticed.

[@janegardener1662]

I use an ottoman so the dog can jump up on the bed, which I think looks better than a set of dog stairs. It's also works great for storing extra blankets.

[@cynthiajohnston424]

I gave up on a coffee table decades ago 'cause the Labs either slept under it & raised up suddenly , lifting the table , or went from the sofa to the floor using the coffee table as a " launching pad " . Not easy being a pet parent , but mostly funny ! 🐾🐾💙

[@yourconnection9303]

​@@cynthiajohnston424 My friend's St. Bernard dived under their coffee table every time it thundered. And the dog always heard it before they did. Of course each and every time everything then went flying off the top of the table!!

[@cynthiajohnston424]

@@yourconnection9303 Yep - I get it ! Also , no ornaments on the bottom half of the Christmas tree - dog parents understand this ! 😂

[@yourconnection9303]

@@cynthiajohnston424 Yes! A big dog wagging their tail as they pass by the tree will also knock the ornaments off, and with their big tail wagging, drinks, etc., can get swiped off a low table. But we still wouldn't trade these pooches for the world!🐾😊

[@dianekelly6764]

In our family's homes with dogs, we use fabric ornaments within tail reach. One dog thought that the Monterey stuffed otter ornament was his toy!

[@donnadebrodt1778]

So far 2023 has been an Annus Horribilis in my life, but Nick’s videos make me laugh at times when I wouldn’t have believed anything could. Thank you, Nick!

[@christiecruzxo2841]

Agree this has been a really rough year

[@cs4849]

Seasonal Industrial Complex! So true! The only “seasonal” stuff I put out besides some limited Christmas decor, are things that can be returned to nature. Indian corn and pumpkins in the fall get set out for the critters, seasonal flowers go into the compost bin once they wilt. The plastic and other kitsch can stay in the stores.

[@HeliliftRose]

Obsessed!!! Great advice! I had furnishings for a family of 6, and when I pared down to the reality of 99% of the time, I felt happier and reclaimed MY space. Helpful!

[@njdegarmo]

Thanks for including seasonal! Who has room to store all that stuff! It is so freeing to get rid of so much seasonal decorations and just enjoy my home as is.

[@aina3387]

I bought a house with built in shelving/media station. But they also turned one half of it into a closed cabinet. Now the closed cabinet is where I keep all my neccesary clutter and the open shelving is where I keep things I like to look at like pictures and a old art book passed down from my grandfather. It is really the best of both worlds. That cabinet is probably my most used space outside of my kitchen, but my house stays looking pretty uncluttered.

[@cookielady7662]

Recent subscriber here. I love your practical approach to decorating. Also love that you always throw in the caveat of if you love it, keep it, and don't take this too seriously because we're here to have fun. I agree with you on some points, but some I don't. You would think my house is one big nightmare, but it works for us. I'm posting this from my reclining sofa. But my husband and I are older and have health issues, so we love it. I also have an electric fireplace and some animal print in my living area. Our home is comfy and works for us, so we're content. If you're ever over for dinner, please don't judge us until you've left. lol. Thanks so much for your entertaining and informative videos.

[@cariwaldick4898]

I bet if he went to your house for dinner, he'd get a great meal, and was made to feel welcomed and loved. THAT'S what home is.

[@cookielady7662]

Thank you for the kind words!

[@ssgg23]

Omg yes! I have a recliner sofa because I have bad back issues as well. It’s a total lifesaver and I can actually watch my TV again! I found a great one from Macy’s that manages a modern look by having adjustable headrests so I can put them all down to give the couch a small sleek look but bring them up when I want to recline. I love having the best of both worlds with this design!

[@cookielady7662]

@@ssgg23 sorry to hear you have back issues. I had back surgery and must have something that is comfortable. That's all there is to it. I think our sofa looks nice and I'm sure you love yours too. It sounds awesome. It's all about what you love and what works in your own home. I have never followed trends anyway.

[@caseylarae9109]

Totally agree with you on all of this! A lot of these seem like symptoms of aspirational living. Built-ins are definitely something I waffled about for years before finally deciding they were too much trouble. They take up wall space you could use for art, reduce the square footage of the room, and add unnecessary restrictions on where you can put your furniture. Another one that can be unnecessary is a separate dining table and breakfast table. It often makes more sense to have one table that can do both jobs or is convertible. I would also put a lot of different patio furniture pieces into this category; side tables, side chairs, plant stands, privacy screens, specialized pots, and etc can all be too much and unnecessary. Putting a bunch of stuff on the patio usually ends up looking more like clutter and less like a garden space. Going with bigger planters and putting more plants in each one gives a better illusion of a green garden than scattering small pots around the patio. It's also less work than watering individual pots. Using fewer, larger pieces of furniture on a patio generally feels like a cleaner space in the end too.

[@liisaking1247]

I live in a tiny studio (under 400 sq ft) and I adore my ottoman. I love a chaise longue/to have my feet up but I hate sectionals and don't have nearly enough room for one anyway. The ottoman I have is highly multifunctional. It's upholstered in velvet, opens for storage, allows me to put my feet up, provides essential extra seating, and (with a large bamboo tray from Yogibo) turns into a coffee table or a place to play games/do puzzles. It is also easily moved from place to place in the room so it's out of the way at night time. Make sure your furniture works for you, the way you live, and the space you inhabit!

[@kristina_lynn]

I worked on a container ship spill where there was a ship full of seasonal decor coming from Asia to North America. Pristine beaches were covered with inflatable lawn santas and seasonal tchotchkes. 😢 i have never looked at disposable seasonal goods the same way since. I usually cut some evergreen branches from the street to lay on a table, get some pine cones, get some stuff from the thrift store or other free and recycled options.