32 Beginner-Friendly Home Upgrades That Look Pro

A 30-pack of picture hooks, which makes hanging pictures and mirrors on walls easy peasy. Just push, twist, and insert into drywall or plaster, no tools required.
These hooks saved the day (and my walls) after I failed miserably with nails, screws, and adhesive strips while trying to put together a gallery wall in my dining room. Instead of fumbling to find a study to drill into (what am I, a magician?) or risking smashed fingers with another ill-fitting nail, I used these to hang my art quickly and safely. You just push them into the wall and twist until only the hook portion is visible. No stud-finding, no pre-drilling, no anchors — just push, twist, and hang. I honestly don't understand why these aren't in every household. They're that good. Get it from The Home Depot for $14.98.
A top-down, bottom-up Roman shade that looks high-end but installs with just a couple of screws. It filters in soft, natural light while still giving you privacy, and the cordless design makes your space feel instantly more tailored. No rods, no fancy tools, no stress.
Promising review: "The fit is fantastic and matches my measurements perfectly. I love the texture and the convenience of adjusting the height easily. It's great that I can raise them from the bottom or lower them from the top. Considering the level of customization, I believe the pricing is fair. I wanted light filtering, and these curtains provide the perfect amount of privacy for our bathroom." —C-RodGet it from Amazon for $37.49+ (available in 20 colors and over 100 sizes; be sure to clip the 25% off coupon when applicable).
An outlet light if you need a little light here and there. Perfect for those of us who take nightly bathroom breaks or want to safely get to the kitchen for a midnight snack without turning on all the lights.
A roll of window privacy film that'll instantly make your windows look more modern while keeping prying eyes out. It filters in natural light but blurs the view, so you can go about your day without giving the whole neighborhood a front-row seat.
Promising review: "I absolutely love this product! I installed it on my bathroom window. It's an older house, and for some unknown reason, the builders put a window right above the bathtub! Curtains and shades are impossible to keep clean, since mold grows there easily, so I decided to try this instead. It adheres beautifully to the glass and lets enough light in that I can keep a cute plant perched on the windowsill. Highly recommend!" —NancyHGet it from Amazon for $7.98+ (available in three sizes and four styles).
A privacy window film to turn any window into a rainbow factory. When the light hits it, your space will be covered in rainbows. And when the light isn't hitting it, it looks like ornate stained glass.
Or some stained glass window film that's a triple threat: it provides privacy, insulation, and it looks freakin' cool. Real stained glass windows are, what, a billion dollars? No thank you!!
A stick of Erase-A-Hole putty to cover up the holes in your wall caused by nails. It also works on wood and plaster!
A collection of antique-style brass cabinet pulls that'll make your existing cabinetry look new again. One of the most dramatic ways to change the look of drawers and cabinets is to swap out the hardware, and it's soooo easy.
Promising review: "These are so nice and heavy. Such great quality for the price. They look amazing on the kitchen cabinets. I would recommend these for sure!" —Kindle CustomerGet a pack of 10 from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in different quantities, styles, and finishes).
Or a set of ceramic apple knobs that'll give your cabinets an easy (and cute!) upgrade. Instead of settling for the blasé hardware that comes standard in rentals, swap it out for something fun like these itsy bitsy apples.
Promising review: "I LOVE everything about these cute little cabinet knobs, and they're soooo easy to install — everything was right inside 😀" —Sheryl E.Get a set of 10 from Amazon for $14.99.
Some pre-made wall panels to elevate your walls to the next level. The only things you need are a nail gun and glue (or Command strips if you're a renter) to get the look.
A pack of five refillable multi-surface touch up paint pens that'll effortlessly fix scratches and nicks on walls, doors, and cabinetry in your bathroom. Just fill up a pen with paint of your choice and fill in the problem area.
Slobproof is a small business that makes paint touch-up pens.Promising review: "I keep these in my kitchen drawer and it's SO convenient for my painted cabinets! I moved into a house with older wood cabinets, and because it's such a small kitchen, I knew that painting the cabinets white (actually went with cream!) would make it feel so much larger! I LOVE the way they look, but inevitably (even though I sanded and prepped), I'll get little chips in the paint. These touch-up pens stay in my junk drawer full of paint at all times. The cap makes it so it never dries out and stays super clean. But I'm able to grab them any time and just touch things up so my cabinets ALWAYS look fresh." —Claire FloresGet it from Slobproof on Amazon for $24.99 (available in a pack of two or five).
Some floating shelves to install in your bathroom to give your pretty things a place to shine. Most bathrooms just have a few towel rods, so installing these will give you plenty of opportunities to show off your gorgeous candles, ceramics, and hand towels.
Promising review: "These shelves are so beautiful! My bathroom doesn't have a counter around the sink so this is perfect. It is modern and sleek and the wood and cast-iron shelves are very well built and sturdy. I was surprised that these are such high quality considering the price." —VincentGet a set of two from Amazon for $21.99+ (available in seven finishes).
A mold-resistant white grout pen for covering grout stains with a fresh coat of waterproof white paint. Each pen can cover up to 150 feet of grout.
Be sure to clean your grout beforehand, as this pen covers stains that will be easier to cover if the surface is clean.There are 11 different grout colors available: white, winter gray, light gray, gray, dark gray, black, ivory, cream, beige, brown, and terracotta. You can view all the colors here.Promising review: "I have 12-inch white tile in my whole house that is 20 years old. Even though I kept it looking nice, the grout still was getting dark. I cleaned the grout and let it dry well until the next day, then used the grout pen. It looks like it is brand-new. One thing that I found out was that if the tip of the pen starts to look worn, you can just pull it out and turn it over — it is the same tip on both ends. It will take some time to do the whole house, but it looks so great that I will just do a section at a time 'til I finish. One other thing that I did was run my finger down the grout line after I applied the grout pen, then wipe down the tile line with a paper towel so no other cleanup was necessary." —Amazon CustomerGet it from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in a narrow or wide tip).
An under-cabinet lighting kit to give any space — kitchen, closet, bookshelf, you name it — a warm, ambient glow that instantly elevates the whole room. It's peel-and-stick, comes with a remote, and makes everything look a little more pulled together.
Promising review: "I have five different sets in the kitchen and the adjacent living room. These are extremely easy to install, and you can adjust the warmth from very yellow to bright white. The quality is excellent, and there are no problems after months of use. I only use one remote control for all sets, but I could program each remote to control each set independently if I wanted to. Great value for the price." —John TrivesterGet 20 feet from Amazon for $19.99+ (also available in color).
A roll of peel-and-stick subway tile backsplash if your kitchen's walls are blank and you want to give them an upgrade. These are extra great if you're a renter — they don't damage the wall at all if you ever need to remove them.
Promising review: "I've been wanting to try peel-and-stick tiles for a long time, and I'm so glad I found these for our kitchen facelift! They are so easy to apply and look amazing! I love that they are actual-size subway tiles as well! They've given our kitchen the last very important piece that it needed!" —April Grill Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in 13 colors; be sure to clip the $10 off coupon when applicable).
Or a peel-and-stick wallpaper for adding a colorful backsplash to your kitchen without having to, you know, install an actual backsplash. Talk about a renter-friendly DIY find!
A pack of six furniture markers to cover up small nicks and cuts in your wood furniture and floors. Each kit comes with the most common wood colors (cherry, mahogany, walnut, black, maple, and oak) and matching crayons for easy filling when the damaged area is a little deep.
Promising review: "I am thoroughly impressed! We have a 115-plus-year-old house, and we only have hardwood in our downstairs hall and den. We didn't want to spend tons of money because we are probably going to be replacing the flooring in a few years. I'm actually still working on this as I'm writing this, but I am so impressed that I just had to write a review right away. The only 'negative' I have is that the colors are darker than the caps show, but it's not a big deal. For the money, you can't go wrong." —BorgGet them from Amazon for $8.99.
A dual-spray showerhead for a better bathing experience. The handheld head is great for making sure you never get out of the shower not realizing your hair still has conditioner in it.
A hidden storage box disguised as a beautiful collection of books. Now, instead of having your electronics and all their cords on display, they'll be covered up by what looks like a top-tier curation of books.
A Tushy bidet that'll turn your apartment bathroom into a space that feels a little more thought-out and a lot more comfortable. Its simple design and adjustable pressure offer a clean, comfortable experience while helping you save $$$ on toilet paper. Installation takes 10 minutes and requires no electricity or additional plumbing.
Some peel-and-stick floor tiles if you're unhappy with the way your current bathroom or kitchen floors look. These are half an inch thick and made of vinyl, so they can withstand a lot of foot traffic. They're also water-resistant and washable.
Each box has 10 12" x 12" tiles. Promising review: "Best purchase ever, love that it brightened and give my bathroom a new fresh look. Easy to put together and only took about two hours." —BillyGet it from Amazon for $15.50.
A plug-in wall sconce that's powered by an electrical outlet, because not all of us can or want to hire an electrician to install a more permanent light fixture. It's also got a dimmer.
Promising review: "These lamps are perfect for over the bed. They have two switches. One is on the base to dim them, and then a lower switch is needed for when you are tired and don't want to reach that high! Perfect!" —Amazon CustomerGet it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in black or gold, and in packs of one or two).
Or a plug-in wall sconce with a fabric lampshade if you're looking for something with a softer aesthetic.
Promising review: "We wanted to get rid of the large lamps we were using because the bedroom is small, and we didn't want to spend a lot of money. These are very easy to install and the price is great. Everything arrived in perfect shape and we love that the switch is on the base and not on the cord, that way we can use decorative cord covers. The swivel makes it nice to move into the perfect position. I might purchase another set for our guest room." —VWBugGeekGet a pack of two from Amazon for $49.99 (available in three colors).
A set of removable tile decals that are specifically designed for stairs. They come in a roll just like tape, so you slap them on your risers and — boom! — you're done.
Quadrostyle is a woman-founded small business from Aussie designer Gabrielle Morabia. With operations based in Bali and an HQ in the south of France, Quadrostyle embraces all corners of the globe and takes inspiration from the traditional tiles found in the Mediterranean, Latin America, and Scandinavia.Promising review: "It turned out amazing! And completely easy to install. It totally changed our space. We love it!" —jaclynnancekivell Get it from Quadrostyle on Etsy for $17.49+ (available in six heights and matte or gloss finishes).
A pair of LED stained glass bulbs if you want your ceiling and walls to erupt with rainbows every time you turn on the light. If you don't have the option to paint your walls but love color, this is the product for you.
A set of NoNo Brackets that cleverly snap onto your existing vertical blinds so you can hang your own curtains. This is crucial if you're a renter who can't remove your blinds but still want to have your own window treatments up.
An expandable shelf for under your sink that adjusts itself around your awkwardly shaped pipe. You will be able to fit so much more stuff under your sink when you use this!
Measures 15 inches long x 11.25 inches wide x 15 inches high and can expand to 25 inches long.Promising review: "I'm so glad I bought this. I have a 24-inch vanity in my bathroom and this fit perfectly. I have it extended to about 23-inch and it holds sturdy, though I can see if you were to extend it to its full length it gets weak in the middle. I liked it so much that I ordered another one for the kitchen. I got some clear bins to help organize bottles and other goodies I keep in the bath." —Marlene R.Get it from Amazon for $24.87 (available in three finishes).
A pack of 16 solar-powered outdoor lights that clip right onto your balcony's ledge. Warm nights spent out on your balcony will be so much nicer when you have proper mood lighting.
Promising review: "Developed a garden on the apartment patio, and wanted to add some lights along the railing to give it some character. These solar lights are not too bright and were easy to install. All the lights work, which is great. Better than I could have hoped for. 👍" —KMFGet it from Amazon for $25.49+ (available in two colors and also a set of 20).
An ultra-thin socket cover to tame the mess of plugs and cords behind your furniture without sticking out (literally). It sits flat against the wall and runs the cord neatly along the baseboard, so your outlets stay functional *and* visually unoffensive.
Some motion-activated, battery-powered night-lights to illuminate dark areas in your home. I use these in closets, deep cabinets, and my bathroom that has a really loud fan that turns on every time I switch the light on.
A pair of crystal drawer knobs if you want to feel like you live in an opulent mansion instead of a one-bedroom apartment. These antique-inspired knobs will dress up doors and furniture alike.
Satin nickel switch plates because good design is in the details. Walls can be so drab, and this is basically a snazzy accessory to jazz yours up.

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5 hours ago

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32 Beginner-Friendly Home Upgrades That Look Pro

A 30-pack of picture hooks, which makes hanging pictures and mirrors on walls easy peasy. Just push, twist, and insert into drywall or plaster, no tools required. These hooks saved the day (and my walls) after I failed miserably with nails, screws, and adhesive strips while trying to put together a gallery wall in my dining room. Instead of fumbling to find a study to drill into (what am I, a magician?) or risking smashed fingers with another ill-fitting nail, I used these to hang my art quickly and safely. You just push them into the wall and twist until only the hook portion is visible. No stud-finding, no pre-drilling, no anchors — just push, twist, and hang. I honestly don't understand why these aren't in every household. They're that good. Get it from The Home Depot for $14.98. A top-down, bottom-up Roman shade that looks high-end but installs with just a couple of screws. It filters in soft, natural light while still giving you privacy, and the cordless design makes your space feel instantly more tailored. No rods, no fancy tools, no stress. Promising review: "The fit is fantastic and matches my measurements perfectly. I love the texture and the convenience of adjusting the height easily. It's great that I can raise them from the bottom or lower them from the top. Considering the level of customization, I believe the pricing is fair. I wanted light filtering, and these curtains provide the perfect amount of privacy for our bathroom." —C-RodGet it from Amazon for $37.49+ (available in 20 colors and over 100 sizes; be sure to clip the 25% off coupon when applicable). An outlet light if you need a little light here and there. Perfect for those of us who take nightly bathroom breaks or want to safely get to the kitchen for a midnight snack without turning on all the lights. A roll of window privacy film that'll instantly make your windows look more modern while keeping prying eyes out. It filters in natural light but blurs the view, so you can go about your day without giving the whole neighborhood a front-row seat. Promising review: "I absolutely love this product! I installed it on my bathroom window. It's an older house, and for some unknown reason, the builders put a window right above the bathtub! Curtains and shades are impossible to keep clean, since mold grows there easily, so I decided to try this instead. It adheres beautifully to the glass and lets enough light in that I can keep a cute plant perched on the windowsill. Highly recommend!" —NancyHGet it from Amazon for $7.98+ (available in three sizes and four styles). A privacy window film to turn any window into a rainbow factory. When the light hits it, your space will be covered in rainbows. And when the light isn't hitting it, it looks like ornate stained glass. Or some stained glass window film that's a triple threat: it provides privacy, insulation, and it looks freakin' cool. Real stained glass windows are, what, a billion dollars? No thank you!! A stick of Erase-A-Hole putty to cover up the holes in your wall caused by nails. It also works on wood and plaster! A collection of antique-style brass cabinet pulls that'll make your existing cabinetry look new again. One of the most dramatic ways to change the look of drawers and cabinets is to swap out the hardware, and it's soooo easy. Promising review: "These are so nice and heavy. Such great quality for the price. They look amazing on the kitchen cabinets. I would recommend these for sure!" —Kindle CustomerGet a pack of 10 from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in different quantities, styles, and finishes). Or a set of ceramic apple knobs that'll give your cabinets an easy (and cute!) upgrade. Instead of settling for the blasé hardware that comes standard in rentals, swap it out for something fun like these itsy bitsy apples. Promising review: "I LOVE everything about these cute little cabinet knobs, and they're soooo easy to install — everything was right inside 😀" —Sheryl a set of 10 from Amazon for $14.99. Some pre-made wall panels to elevate your walls to the next level. The only things you need are a nail gun and glue (or Command strips if you're a renter) to get the look. A pack of five refillable multi-surface touch up paint pens that'll effortlessly fix scratches and nicks on walls, doors, and cabinetry in your bathroom. Just fill up a pen with paint of your choice and fill in the problem area. Slobproof is a small business that makes paint touch-up review: "I keep these in my kitchen drawer and it's SO convenient for my painted cabinets! I moved into a house with older wood cabinets, and because it's such a small kitchen, I knew that painting the cabinets white (actually went with cream!) would make it feel so much larger! I LOVE the way they look, but inevitably (even though I sanded and prepped), I'll get little chips in the paint. These touch-up pens stay in my junk drawer full of paint at all times. The cap makes it so it never dries out and stays super clean. But I'm able to grab them any time and just touch things up so my cabinets ALWAYS look fresh." —Claire FloresGet it from Slobproof on Amazon for $24.99 (available in a pack of two or five). Some floating shelves to install in your bathroom to give your pretty things a place to shine. Most bathrooms just have a few towel rods, so installing these will give you plenty of opportunities to show off your gorgeous candles, ceramics, and hand towels. Promising review: "These shelves are so beautiful! My bathroom doesn't have a counter around the sink so this is perfect. It is modern and sleek and the wood and cast-iron shelves are very well built and sturdy. I was surprised that these are such high quality considering the price." —VincentGet a set of two from Amazon for $21.99+ (available in seven finishes). A mold-resistant white grout pen for covering grout stains with a fresh coat of waterproof white paint. Each pen can cover up to 150 feet of grout. Be sure to clean your grout beforehand, as this pen covers stains that will be easier to cover if the surface is are 11 different grout colors available: white, winter gray, light gray, gray, dark gray, black, ivory, cream, beige, brown, and terracotta. You can view all the colors review: "I have 12-inch white tile in my whole house that is 20 years old. Even though I kept it looking nice, the grout still was getting dark. I cleaned the grout and let it dry well until the next day, then used the grout pen. It looks like it is brand-new. One thing that I found out was that if the tip of the pen starts to look worn, you can just pull it out and turn it over — it is the same tip on both ends. It will take some time to do the whole house, but it looks so great that I will just do a section at a time 'til I finish. One other thing that I did was run my finger down the grout line after I applied the grout pen, then wipe down the tile line with a paper towel so no other cleanup was necessary." —Amazon CustomerGet it from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in a narrow or wide tip). An under-cabinet lighting kit to give any space — kitchen, closet, bookshelf, you name it — a warm, ambient glow that instantly elevates the whole room. It's peel-and-stick, comes with a remote, and makes everything look a little more pulled together. Promising review: "I have five different sets in the kitchen and the adjacent living room. These are extremely easy to install, and you can adjust the warmth from very yellow to bright white. The quality is excellent, and there are no problems after months of use. I only use one remote control for all sets, but I could program each remote to control each set independently if I wanted to. Great value for the price." —John TrivesterGet 20 feet from Amazon for $19.99+ (also available in color). A roll of peel-and-stick subway tile backsplash if your kitchen's walls are blank and you want to give them an upgrade. These are extra great if you're a renter — they don't damage the wall at all if you ever need to remove them. Promising review: "I've been wanting to try peel-and-stick tiles for a long time, and I'm so glad I found these for our kitchen facelift! They are so easy to apply and look amazing! I love that they are actual-size subway tiles as well! They've given our kitchen the last very important piece that it needed!" —April Grill Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in 13 colors; be sure to clip the $10 off coupon when applicable). Or a peel-and-stick wallpaper for adding a colorful backsplash to your kitchen without having to, you know, install an actual backsplash. Talk about a renter-friendly DIY find! A pack of six furniture markers to cover up small nicks and cuts in your wood furniture and floors. Each kit comes with the most common wood colors (cherry, mahogany, walnut, black, maple, and oak) and matching crayons for easy filling when the damaged area is a little deep. Promising review: "I am thoroughly impressed! We have a 115-plus-year-old house, and we only have hardwood in our downstairs hall and den. We didn't want to spend tons of money because we are probably going to be replacing the flooring in a few years. I'm actually still working on this as I'm writing this, but I am so impressed that I just had to write a review right away. The only 'negative' I have is that the colors are darker than the caps show, but it's not a big deal. For the money, you can't go wrong." —BorgGet them from Amazon for $8.99. A dual-spray showerhead for a better bathing experience. The handheld head is great for making sure you never get out of the shower not realizing your hair still has conditioner in it. A hidden storage box disguised as a beautiful collection of books. Now, instead of having your electronics and all their cords on display, they'll be covered up by what looks like a top-tier curation of books. A Tushy bidet that'll turn your apartment bathroom into a space that feels a little more thought-out and a lot more comfortable. Its simple design and adjustable pressure offer a clean, comfortable experience while helping you save $$$ on toilet paper. Installation takes 10 minutes and requires no electricity or additional plumbing. Some peel-and-stick floor tiles if you're unhappy with the way your current bathroom or kitchen floors look. These are half an inch thick and made of vinyl, so they can withstand a lot of foot traffic. They're also water-resistant and washable. Each box has 10 12" x 12" tiles. Promising review: "Best purchase ever, love that it brightened and give my bathroom a new fresh look. Easy to put together and only took about two hours." —BillyGet it from Amazon for $15.50. A plug-in wall sconce that's powered by an electrical outlet, because not all of us can or want to hire an electrician to install a more permanent light fixture. It's also got a dimmer. Promising review: "These lamps are perfect for over the bed. They have two switches. One is on the base to dim them, and then a lower switch is needed for when you are tired and don't want to reach that high! Perfect!" —Amazon CustomerGet it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in black or gold, and in packs of one or two). Or a plug-in wall sconce with a fabric lampshade if you're looking for something with a softer aesthetic. Promising review: "We wanted to get rid of the large lamps we were using because the bedroom is small, and we didn't want to spend a lot of money. These are very easy to install and the price is great. Everything arrived in perfect shape and we love that the switch is on the base and not on the cord, that way we can use decorative cord covers. The swivel makes it nice to move into the perfect position. I might purchase another set for our guest room." —VWBugGeekGet a pack of two from Amazon for $49.99 (available in three colors). A set of removable tile decals that are specifically designed for stairs. They come in a roll just like tape, so you slap them on your risers and — boom! — you're done. Quadrostyle is a woman-founded small business from Aussie designer Gabrielle Morabia. With operations based in Bali and an HQ in the south of France, Quadrostyle embraces all corners of the globe and takes inspiration from the traditional tiles found in the Mediterranean, Latin America, and review: "It turned out amazing! And completely easy to install. It totally changed our space. We love it!" —jaclynnancekivell Get it from Quadrostyle on Etsy for $17.49+ (available in six heights and matte or gloss finishes). A pair of LED stained glass bulbs if you want your ceiling and walls to erupt with rainbows every time you turn on the light. If you don't have the option to paint your walls but love color, this is the product for you. A set of NoNo Brackets that cleverly snap onto your existing vertical blinds so you can hang your own curtains. This is crucial if you're a renter who can't remove your blinds but still want to have your own window treatments up. An expandable shelf for under your sink that adjusts itself around your awkwardly shaped pipe. You will be able to fit so much more stuff under your sink when you use this! Measures 15 inches long x 11.25 inches wide x 15 inches high and can expand to 25 inches review: "I'm so glad I bought this. I have a 24-inch vanity in my bathroom and this fit perfectly. I have it extended to about 23-inch and it holds sturdy, though I can see if you were to extend it to its full length it gets weak in the middle. I liked it so much that I ordered another one for the kitchen. I got some clear bins to help organize bottles and other goodies I keep in the bath." —Marlene it from Amazon for $24.87 (available in three finishes). A pack of 16 solar-powered outdoor lights that clip right onto your balcony's ledge. Warm nights spent out on your balcony will be so much nicer when you have proper mood lighting. Promising review: "Developed a garden on the apartment patio, and wanted to add some lights along the railing to give it some character. These solar lights are not too bright and were easy to install. All the lights work, which is great. Better than I could have hoped for. 👍" —KMFGet it from Amazon for $25.49+ (available in two colors and also a set of 20). An ultra-thin socket cover to tame the mess of plugs and cords behind your furniture without sticking out (literally). It sits flat against the wall and runs the cord neatly along the baseboard, so your outlets stay functional *and* visually unoffensive. Some motion-activated, battery-powered night-lights to illuminate dark areas in your home. I use these in closets, deep cabinets, and my bathroom that has a really loud fan that turns on every time I switch the light on. A pair of crystal drawer knobs if you want to feel like you live in an opulent mansion instead of a one-bedroom apartment. These antique-inspired knobs will dress up doors and furniture alike. Satin nickel switch plates because good design is in the details. Walls can be so drab, and this is basically a snazzy accessory to jazz yours up.

Travel + Leisure

9 hours ago

• Travel + Leisure

Amazon Listed a Sun-drenched, Pod-style Tiny Home That's Perfect for Solo Travelers and Couples—and it's $40K

If you never dreamed of living in an under-200-square-foot steel pod with glass walls, prepare to change your mind after seeing the ultra-modern tiny home Amazon is selling for $40,000. Designed with a minimalist style and thoughtful features like repositionable panels and extreme weather-ready materials, this tiny house is ready to be your vacation home, backyard Airbnb suite, office, or whatever space you can think of. At the core of this 19-foot-long pod home is reinforced interlocking joints and multi-layer walls that are designed to withstand extreme weather, according to the seller. It's said to be insulated, so you can use it in a variety of weather conditions. The seller also states that it's made to be set up in under eight hours, but it does not specify how many people are needed to aid with the installation. The house is designed with a kitchenette in the middle, across from the sliding glass door, while the bathroom is on one end, and the bedroom/living space is on the other. Besides the $40K price and the fact that you can buy it from Amazon, the home's design is what makes the structure special. One entire wall is glass, giving you natural light and a full view of the outside wherever you are in the home, making the space feel much more open. It has a central sliding glass door that also helps maximize space. This single-decker pod home is designed to be just the right size for a person or couple looking to minimize their lifestyle, buy their first home, or add to their existing living space. Read on for space-saving hacks that will work in any home. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Buzz Feed

21 hours ago

• Buzz Feed

14 Best Outdoor Patio Rugs

A tightly woven outdoor rug with rich texture and a deep tone that reads way pricier than it is. The black and beige blend looks timeless without being boring, and the durable, weather-resistant fibers can handle sun, rain, and heavy foot traffic. It's the kind of rug that makes your whole setup feel more polished. Promising review: "We tried a few of those cheaper straw-like rugs for our concrete patio and quickly decided they were too cheap and flimsy and not worth the money. Ordered this rug largely due to the stellar reviews. Yes, it was about double the price of the others, but it is well worth the money. Very solid, well-made rug. Highly recommend." —Paul it from Amazon for $17.08+ (available in 16 colors and 75 sizes). A modern floral patio rug because your deck deserves better than beige. Its low-pile, flat-weave construction won't trap dirt or debris, and it's UV-tested, pet- and kid-friendly, and fully hose-off-able. Promising review: "Gorgeous! Well made and quite durable. Softer underfoot than I imagined it would be. Red wine was spilled on day one, and it cleaned right up! Love it on my sun porch, and great value for the money." —Jules G. Get it from Amazon for $26.13+ (available in nine colors and 27 sizes). An outdoor rug that pulls off the jute look without any of the upkeep. The soft brown tones, geometric weave, and subtle pattern make it feel both earthy and elevated. If you're after something natural-looking that still holds up to weather, this one nails the assignment. Promising review: "Couldn't love this rug more. Such a beautiful/modern design, and the quality is perfect. We had our previous outdoor rug from this same brand, and it lasted years through the elements and was still in great condition when we made the switch. Love the texture of this for the outside. We've gotten so many compliments in the time it's been out. 10/10!" —savannah Get it from Amazon for $22.69+ (available in 14 colors and 19 sizes). A woven patio rug to bring a Moroccan-esque look to your deck without overwhelming the space. This is a great get if you want something that's neutral but not boring. Promising review: "I'm so happy with this rug! I bought it to freshen up our patio space, and it instantly gave the area a clean, modern look with its light gray and black handwoven texture. The flat-weave construction feels durable yet soft underfoot — perfect for high-traffic areas. We've got kids and a dog, and this rug handles it all like a champ! Spills wipe up easily, and it doesn't trap dirt, which makes it super low-maintenance. I also appreciate that it's stain-resistant and doesn't fade in the sun. When it needs a deeper clean, I just hose it down with a little soap and water and hang it up to dry — so simple. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a practical yet stylish rug for either indoor or outdoor use!" —AlyssaGet it from Amazon for $33+ (available in 18 colors and 27 sizes). A floral explosion of a patio rug if your goal is to make your outdoor space look like an actual party. The vibrant colors, sculpted texture, and intricate design give it the illusion of luxury, when in reality it's affordable, durable, and hose-washable. If you want a showstopper, this is the one. Promising review: "This rug is gorgeous! The vibrant colors just make me smile every time I look at it. It's a perfect addition to our backyard patio!" —Michelle Hill Welsh Get it from Amazon for $36.23+ (available in 13 colors and 32 sizes). A scrollwork patio rug that'll add a level of sophistication to your outdoor space. The taupe and espresso color palette and tailored border give it opulent vibes without veering into fussy, and the flat weave keeps it low-maintenance despite the high-society aesthetic. If you want your space to feel more formal and put together, this is the one. Promising review: "I really love the way this looks. It's quite soft to the touch. I wasn't sure if the pattern would make the seating area of my patio look too busy, but it actually makes it look bigger. It's light enough that I can pick it up and hang it over the fence to hose off and let it dry. I'm happy with this purchase." —Lyn it from Amazon for $39.57+ (available in 11 colors and 27 sizes). An outdoor rug with a medallion design if you're going for something with a vintage look. The black and gray colors look naturally faded, like a lucky estate sale find. It's flat woven and weather resistant, so it brings both charm and durability to your space. Promising review: "Super durable and so cute on my balcony! My cats love to scratch it and it doesn't show any damage!" —ClaraGet it from Amazon for $25.39+ (available in seven colors and 23 sizes). A Western-inspired patio rug that looks like something you'd score at a desert flea market, but it's waterproof, reversible, and made from recycled plastic. The geometric pattern and swoon-worthy colors feel totally unexpected for an outdoor rug, and if it gets dirty, just hose it down and let it dry in the sun like the showoff it is. Promising review: "This is the third one of these rugs I have bought over the last 10 years. Not because they wear out, but because I am adding to the stock. I use them on a covered screen porch, and they look so nice and are so durable that they are in place even in the winter." —Ms Lin SewaneeGet it from Amazon for $45.74+ (available in 28 colors and 15 sizes). A neutral-but-not-boring outdoor rug for making any patio feel more pulled together. It's flatwoven from quick-drying, hose-washable polypropylene, so it won't soak up water or hang onto grime. Think of it as the easiest way to make your outdoor space feel finished. Promising review: "I have this rug on my deck and it is perfect! Lays flat. When it rains, it dries out quickly. Comfortable for bare feet. Love the design and color. This definitely was a good choice!" —L. TrueGet it from Amazon for $28.24+ (available in TK colors and TK sizes). A trellis patio rug with just enough detail to make a statement but not hog the spotlight. The teal and gray color combo adds a little personality without clashing with your existing setup, and the border pulls everything together. It's a great pick for anyone who wants their patio to feel polished but not precious. Promising review: "I love the color of this outdoor rug — it really makes our small apartment balcony feel more comfortable and functional. I like doing my nails on the porch and dropped a nail down through the board slats. No more! Haha. It's the perfect size for a balcony space and not too thick. It dries quickly." —Bre it from Amazon for $30.14+ (available in nine colors and 29 sizes). A grayscale floral patio rug that isn't doing the most. The high-low pile adds a little texture underfoot, while the bold black-and-white design instantly perks up any outdoor setup. It's made from stain-resistant polypropylene and built to handle foot traffic, weather, and whatever your kids or guests throw at it, figuratively or literally. Promising review: "I LOVE this rug!! It has been through a couple of storms and still looks like the day we received it! It is durable and brightens up our deck tremendously!! Especially love the 'three-dimensional' material of the design ... so very pretty! Would highly recommend to anyone needing a rug, either for outside or inside the house." —dreamweaverGet it from Amazon for $35+ (available in 16 colors and 37 sizes). A striped outdoor rug if you want something colorful, durable, and no-nonsense. It's made from recycled plastic, doesn't hold onto water, and rolls up easily when it's time to pack up (for the winter or for hitting the road). This is an excellent choice if you're someone who likes to camp/glamp. Promising review: "I really love this particular outdoor rug. I really like that the rug is rolled and not folded. I use it for my teardrop camper, and I like that it can be easily hosed off to clean it, and that it isn't rumpled or creased when put out. My previous experience with folded outdoor rugs has been that I trip on the folds! I have had zero shedding with this one, and so far that color hasn't faded a bit, despite being outdoors a lot." —Jane "I purchased this rug two years ago for our back patio, which faces south and gets near constant sunlight. It's also sat out over the last two winters, getting snowed on. It still looks as new as the day I received it. No fading, snags, rips, or other damage at all. I absolutely recommend it." —AD6901Get it from Amazon for $45+ (available in 20 colors and 12 sizes). A flatweave patio rug in a single solid color to keep things looking clean without trying too hard. It's lightweight, low-maintenance, and won't fight with your furniture or accessories for attention. Use it on its own or lay it under something louder; it's the outdoor equivalent of a neutral T-shirt. Promising review: "I love this rug. It has made the patio look so much better by hiding the ugly cracks and bringing a nice color to the patio. The rain washes right off and dries quickly. I love it!" —Sylvia PriceGet it from Amazon for $25.87+ (available in 13 colors and 27 sizes). And a reversible, foldable, waterproof patio rug that'll instantly pull your outdoor space together. The bold floral print brings the color, it's really easy to clean, and it comes with stakes so you can secure it to the lawn if you use it on the grass. It also comes with a bag for easy storage when not in use. Promising review: "Wow! This is so cute! I love that the pattern is unique from the typical ones you see! It is very durable and easy to clean! It dries quickly and fits perfectly on our deck." —Amazon CustomerGet it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in three colors and three sizes).