Is there anything better than a well-prepared tube steak? If you’re a fan of encased meat on a bun, then July’s National Hotdog Month is the season for you. As simple as this food may seem, a hot dog you chow down on near Coney Island might be markedly different from one you nosh in Seattle. Regional variations inspire a strange and all-consuming loyalty — so pay attention to how the locations near your apartment are serving them up.
The Slaw Dog
A staple of the South, the slaw dog is a hot dog slathered with a thick, sweet, creamy mayonnaise-based slaw made from a mixture of finely chopped cabbage and carrots and placed on a lightly steamed bun. You can stop here, or try the unique flavor combination of the chili cheese slaw dog, which features a grilled hot dog topped with hearty, beanless chili and that signature slaw.
Where: The Varisty – 61 North Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308
The Italian
The Italian hot dog is like a regular hot dog on steroids. Hot dog vendors hip to this variety, most often found in New Jersey, take a half-round of doughy bakery bread, slice it open and create a pocket that resembles an enlarged pita, which is then smeared with yellow mustard. Then, they stuff in a pair of deep fried hot dogs (called rippers because their skin rips open during frying), toss on a mound of sautéed onions and peppers and a heap of crispy fried potato wedges.
Where: Jimmy Buff’s – 60 Washington St., West Orange, NJ 07052
The Chicago Style
As the name suggests, you can find this famous style in the Windy City. If you choose to chow down on this culinary creation, you’ll enjoy either a steamed or charred, all-beef, natural casing hot dog, nestled into a steamed poppy seed bun and topped with a variety of things. If you want it “dragged through the garden,” you’ll get chopped onions, sliced tomatoes, a dill pickle spear, neon green sweet pickle relish, yellow mustard, pickled sport peppers and celery salt. Just don’t ask for ketchup – you’ll never find this looked-down-upon condiment on the Chicago-style hot dog, although some vendors will provide small packets to customers who request it, along with a dirty glare.
Where: Superdawg – 6363 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60646
The Sonoran
Found in Tucson, metropolitan Phoenix and in Sonora, Mexico, the Sonoran hot dog is wrapped in mesquite-smoked bacon and then cooked on a grill or a griddle and stuffed into steamed bolillo rolls. The finished product is topped with pinto beans, chopped tomatoes, onions, mustard, mayo and jalapenos. Other topping variations include shredded cheddar cheese, queso fresco, cotija cheese, salsa verde and guacamole. It’s like a fiesta for your tummy.
Where: Nogales Hot Dogs – 1945 E Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85016
The Seattle Style
If you haven’t heard of the Seattle-style cream cheese dog, you’re probably not alone. This sleeper hit of the Pacific Northwest has practically popped up out of nowhere and now can be found at hot dog carts across the Emerald City. The Seattle-style hot dog is a wiener or Polish sausage split, grilled and jammed into a toasted bun slathered with cream cheese. Standard toppings include grilled onions, jalapenos and either sauerkraut or grilled cabbage, while typical condiments include mustard, barbecue sauce and Sriracha.
Where: Monster Dogs – 1st Avenue and Bell Street, Seattle, WA 98101
The Puka Dog
Just as its native Hawaii is a melting pot of cultures, the puka dog offers a wide variety of flavors from across the world on one bun. The word puka means “hole” in Hawaiian and, in this case, refers to the hot dog’s bun, a loaf of sweet bread which is baked in a special contraption that creates a hole to encapsulate the grilled Polish sausage. Puka dogs are topped with any number of secret sauces, particularly a lemon garlic aioli, tropical mustards and fruit relish, like habanero, lemon, mango, coconut, papaya and guava.
Where: Hula Dog, 2301 Kuhio Avenue #334, Honolulu, HI 96815
If you’re in tech in Utah, you probably already know Lehi. As the home of industry giants Adobe, Ancestry.com, Workfront, SirsiDynix, IM Flash and other large, small and up-and-coming firms, Lehi has grown from bedroom community to destination location for families looking to be in the center of the action.
Just south of Point of the Mountain, Lehi’s family-friendly lifestyle gives residents quick access to recreation, quaint restaurants, ample shopping and a perfect place to call home. Plus, its center-of-the-valley location means you’re never far from anything.
Considering a home in Lehi? Here’s what you’ll find.
Small town charm with top amenities
Lehi is growing— and fast— but it still retains the small town charm that drew families to it in the first place. Want a peek at what Lehi used to be? Take a drive by Lehi Roller Mills; if it seems familiar, that’s because this still-working mill was the set for the original Footloose. Just a few blocks down Lehi’s Main Street and pop into Paper Crush for a DIY custom day planner and other party supplies or grab a burger and old-fashioned shake at Porter’s.
If a wedding is in your future, Flowers on Main is your stop for fresh-cut beauties and handmade leis, which are great accompaniments to the custom dresses at Gowns by Pamela.
Family game night goes all out at Gamers’ Inn, where you can try games before you buy them or join in with a group to play your favorite board games. Sweeten the day with treats from Lehi Bakery, where the donuts are square, and cupcakes at the Little Cake and Dessert Shop.
If community events are more your style, attend Lehi’s annual Round-Up celebration and rodeo each June and mark your calendar for the carnival-style Foam Day in July. (Why the name? Because before the activities end, everything is covered in soapy foam.) And October wouldn’t be complete without a visit (or two!) to Cornbelly’s, where attendees can get lost in an old-fashioned corn maze —haunted or not—and test their punkin’ chunkin’ skills before settling in to make DIY s’mores.
Walkability/Drivability and Livability
Don’t work in Lehi? Not a problem. Your average commute will still only be 23 minutes, or you could hop on FrontRunner to take the train to Salt Lake, Provo, Ogden and points in-between.
When you return home, it’s a quick walk, drive or bike ride for a bite to eat. Depending on the direction you prefer, both Tsunami and Jimmy Johns are both highly accessible, thanks to the Murdock Canal Trail, a 17-mile paved trail that runs parallel to an unpaved equestrian trail, and connects seven communities in Utah County.
If your destination is a dream home with all of the modern amenities, Lehi is your place. Thanks to the tech corridor, most homes in Lehi were built since 2000 and have all of the amenities homeowners are looking for. Best part: home values in Lehi average $266,300 and climbing, which makes a home in Lehi a smart investment but still affordable. Check out the homes for sale in Lehi on Homie for current availability.
Get out and play, nature’s way
Flanked by Thanksgiving Point to the West and Mt. Timpanogos to the East, Lehi’s access to the great outdoors means you can play hard by day—regardless of your preferred activity.
Take in a round of golf at Thanksgiving Point’s championship course or Frisbee golf at Dry Creek Trail Park, the city’s first disc golf course. You can also run, bike or walk the 17 miles of the Murdock Canal Trail or cool off at the city pool.
For a high-flying adventure, Flight Park State Recreation Area, accessible from Minuteman Drive, has facilities to help you get your hand glider, paraglider and model airplanes in the air.
And for a quick reminder of Mother Nature’s brilliance, Mt. Timpanogos looms just 10 miles east, where you can tour the cave, go for a hike hiking or have a quiet picnic.
Indoor fun
Shopping anyone? Traverse Mountain’s diverse stores include something for everyone, whether your style is H&M, Michael Kors, Quicksilver or Coach. And there’s Cabela’s, where you’ll find everything you could possibly want to feel at home in the great outdoors.
Across the highway are the restaurants of Thanksgiving Point, including Harvest Restaurant, known for its locally-sourced ingredients and fresh take on lunch and dinner. Top off the day by visiting the Museum of Ancient Life or Museum of Natural Curiosity, and the requisite trip to the Ice Cream Shop for an old-fashioned float—with bubblegum ice cream, of course.
Nightlife for everyone
Don’t expect the carpet to roll up at sunset. Evenings are a great time to catch a box office favorites at the Megaplex. In summer, Sundays end with a serenade from some of the best local talent at Wines Park. Or catch a nightcap at Scorez Sports Bar or Buffalo Wild Wings, both prepped for late-night fun.
Want to find your place in Lehi?
If Lehi sounds like the perfect place for you to call home, the Homie team is here to help. You can start the process by browsing through the current homes for sale in Lehi and click “Schedule a Tour” whenever you’re ready to get a closer look. When the time is right, Homie will help you create an offer, answer questions and secure your financing—and Homie’s services for buyers are completely free. You’ll find more details in our Buyer package.
One of the obvious perks of working from home is the opportunity to cut some expenses.
Almost one in three workers remains fully remote in early 2023, and no wonder. When you no longer have to commute every day, you save time and money. You can prep lunch everyday versus buying a pricey takeout salad, and you don’t have to buy (or clean) work clothes anymore. You’re likely to notice some savings quite quickly.
However, there are other costs that might ratchet up just because you’re home more — and that includes energy costs. The extra time you may be spending on your laptop, watching Netflix, or even boiling water for a ramen lunch could nudge your energy usage upward — and your monthly electric bill.
If you have those bills set on autopay, you may not have noticed an increase. Or maybe you noticed the expense creep up but didn’t know what you could do to manage it.
Fortunately, with some planning, you can probably minimize your energy bill. Here are some strategies that might help while you’re working from home:
In the Home Office
You may have put some thought into setting up your office in a way that works ergonomically and looks presentable on Zoom. But have you thought about making your workspace energy efficient?
Choosing Power-Saving Equipment
If there’s a choice, consider using a laptop instead of a desktop computer to do your work. According to Energy Saver, the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) consumer resource, it takes much more power to run a desktop and its monitor than it does to run a laptop.
And with the laptop, there’s a battery for backup if the power fluctuates or there’s a brownout due to high electricity demand in your area.
Those who are new to working at home and purchasing their own office equipment may want to check out Energy Star-certified computers, monitors, and printers, which run more efficiently than standard equipment and use about half as much electricity.
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Unplugging at the End of the Day
Remote workers aren’t the only ones who can benefit from a break at the end of their day. The computers, phone chargers, and other pieces of office equipment they rely on may continue to draw power even when not in use.
For convenience, workers may want to consider attaching these “energy vampires” to a smart power strip, with just one easy-to-reach switch to flip when it’s time to call it quits.
Also: Not to be a Grinch, but come the holiday season, if you like to keep the holiday lights on all day to brighten your work area and deliver a holiday mood, you might rethink that. The cost of holiday lights can add up.
Recommended: Adjusting Your Budget for Working from Home
Letting Computers Take a Nap
Another way to save money on energy is to set a computer to sleep or hibernate if it’s going to sit idle for a while. This differs from using a screen saver, which actually may take extra energy to keep an animated display active on the screen.
When a computer enters sleep mode, the power is cut to any unneeded systems, and the memory receives just enough power to maintain data.
In hibernation mode, the computer saves open documents and running applications to the hard disk instead of to RAM, which means it uses zero power. It takes a little longer to start back up from hibernation, though, so sleep mode may be better for shorter breaks.
Recommended: Do You Qualify for Home-Office Tax Deductions?
Choosing the Right Light
Making the most of natural light in the layout of a home office can cut down on eye strain and energy use, so it can help to create a workspace by a window.
But if a desk lamp will be on for much of the day, using energy-efficient bulbs instead of traditional incandescent bulbs could decrease the amount of energy the light will use by as much as 80%.
Because LED light bulbs produce less heat, they also may help cut costs associated with home cooling. And LEDs, halogens, and compact fluorescent lamps typically last longer than traditional bulbs.
Elsewhere Around the House
Working from home typically means more time spent using appliances; opening and closing doors; and running the air conditioner, fans, or the heater.
Many power companies offer free home energy assessments with a custom report that shows a home’s past and current power use and offers tips on how to save energy in the future.
For those who prefer to DIY their audit, the Environmental Protection Agency provides the Home Energy Yardstick , which compares a household’s actual energy use (based on a year’s worth of utility bills) to that of similar households.
There are also companies that, for a fee, will come and inspect a home’s energy usage . They will also report on areas where the home and its residents could be more energy efficient (though it may require changing some old behaviors).
Making Chores More Efficient
If the local utility company offers “time of use” pricing plans — charging less for power consumed during off-peak hours — it might be another opportunity to save.
Taking advantage of lower pricing may require breaking some old habits — running the dishwasher in the morning, for example, or doing laundry in the late evening — but the reward might be a lower utility bill as well as a healthier planet.
Running full loads in the clothes washer, dryer, and dishwasher can be another way to save. Tempting as it may be to run a load just to get a favorite pair of jeans clean, you’re much better off waiting till you can fill the washer.
💡 Quick Tip: If you’re faced with debt and wondering which kind to pay off first, it can be smart to prioritize high-interest debt first. For many people, this means their credit card debt; rates have recently been climbing into the double-digit range, so try to eliminate that ASAP.
Adjusting the Thermostat
One of the easiest ways to be more energy efficient is to set the thermostat up or down a degree or two to keep a home’s heating or air conditioning from running constantly.
The DOE advises consumers to set the thermostat to 78 degrees — or as high as is comfortable — when home in the summer.
In the winter, the DOE recommends setting the temperature at 68 degrees when everyone is awake and turning it down when they’re asleep or not at home. (Using a smart thermostat that can be operated from a smartphone can make it easier to manage adjustments.)
Getting Creative When Cooking
If eating at home more often is giving the oven a workout (and heating up the house in the summer), consider using the microwave, slow-cooker, or toaster oven to save on electricity and keep things cooler.
So can using the charcoal or gas grill out on the deck, and that might lend a party atmosphere to your regular dinner.
💡 Quick Tip: When you feel the urge to buy something that isn’t in your budget, try the 30-day rule. Make a note of the item in your calendar for 30 days into the future. When the date rolls around, there’s a good chance the “gotta have it” feeling will have subsided.
Keeping the Fridge Filled
A well-stocked freezer operates more efficiently than one that’s sitting half-empty, so feel free to load it up (but look for ways to save money on groceries when doing so). And, of course, if you are buying a new fridge, look for an Energy Star one.
Showering Responsibly
According to the DOE, about 18% of the energy consumed in the average home is from heating water. That means long, hot showers, or even standing at the sink shaving with the water running, can drive up energy bills. So can using the hot water setting on the washing machine or rinsing dishes in hot running water.
One option is to turn down the temperature on the water heater. That will help cut your energy bill when you’re working at home without impacting your comfort much at all. Shortening those showers (which can also help you save on water bills) and changing other habits, regardless of whether you are working from your kitchen table or an office, also can help conserve energy and save money. Extra points awarded to those who air-dry their hair or use the same bath towel more than once.
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The Takeaway
Whether this is a temporary situation or working from home becomes a regular thing, you may find you’ll have to rethink your budget to accommodate the changes to your lifestyle. While typically your energy bill may go up when you are spending more time at home (at your laptop and perhaps peeking in the fridge), it’s possible, with a little effort, to manage your power costs.
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Designed to blend seamlessly into its desert landscape, a striking Paradise Valley, AZ, home is one of renowned architect Will Bruder‘s most eye-catching masterpieces.
Listed for $3.8 million, the three-bedroom looker achieves the goal of immersing into its Mummy Mountain lot, via a combination of materials—copper, glass, steel, concrete, and native stone. According to the listing, the dwelling is anchored to its surroundings, using native rock cantilevers.
“It’s a Will Bruder home, and he is a well-known architect who did the Phoenix Library and various properties across the country,” says listing agent Tracey Zemer, of azarchitecture/Jarson & Jarson. “This house has views all around the valley, so it’s really stunning. It is not so high up but is really nestled into the landscape. The home was built to blend into the landscaping.”
Despite being built in 1987, the home’s 3,724-sqare-foot interior offers a midcentury modern vibe. There are wood walls and ceilings, stone and wood floors, and walls upon walls of glass. And natural rock also makes an appearance.
“In the bathroom, there is a steam shower, and the physical mountain is incorporated into that,” Zemer says.
The contemporary kitchen boasts a soaring ceiling and an enormous window for soaking in the picturesque views. There is also a fire pit area surrounded by stone, a back patio, and spectacular pool that serve up panoramic views of the valley.
When it comes to the home itself, Zemer notes that the photos simply don’t do it justice.
“When you are in the house, you see so much of the view from every single room,” Zemer says. “It’s really a piece of art, for sure.”
While there haven’t been any major renovations over the last few years, Zemer says the current owner has done some “subtle updates” that Bruder returned to oversee.
“There have only been two owners of the home,” she says. “They only did some small modifications. For example, there was a media room that they converted into an office. They also changed out some tile.”
Zemer says she has given up on making predictions about the next owner, but she still has a few thoughts.
“Architectural properties speak to the buyers, so it’s not necessarily about the location,” she notes. “We have also had such an influx of people recently from out of state. Some people have looked at the house as a secondary home.”
However, she adds that the allure of the area has enticed some secondary-home buyers to stay full time.
“The house is in such a prime location in Paradise Valley and sits overlooking the valley and Paradise Valley Country Club,” Zemer says. “It’s in an area that people love to walk and bike and is also close to shopping and restaurants.”
Do the research. Find the Delaware college town that’s right for you.
Though Delaware may be the second-smallest state in the U.S., it is home to some of the most exceptional college towns in the country. With a unique blend of history, culture and academic excellence, Delaware offers students an engaging environment to pursue higher education.
In this article, we’ll explore the best college towns in Delaware, featuring Newark, Dover and Wilmington. Get ready to discover what makes these towns extraordinary places to live, learn and forge a bright future.
Home to the University of Delaware, Newark is a lively college town that combines academic excellence with a strong sense of history and community. The University of Delaware, established in 1743, is renowned for its research programs, commitment to sustainability and picturesque campus.
Downtown Newark is a bustling hub of activity, with a diverse array of restaurants, bars and shops. From the cozy atmosphere of Brew HaHa! coffee shop to the enticing flavors of Ali Baba Middle Eastern Restaurant, there’s something for every palate. The city also hosts various events throughout the year, including the Newark Food and Brew Fest and the Winterfest celebration, which foster a sense of community and showcase the town’s unique culture.
History buffs will appreciate Newark’s rich past, which can be explored at the Iron Hill Science Center and the Cooch’s Bridge historic site. For those who enjoy spending time outdoors, Newark has more than a few parks and natural areas to enjoy, like White Clay Creek State Park and many, many more.
As the capital city of Delaware, Dover offers students a unique college experience in a historical setting. The city is home to Delaware State University, Wesley College and satellite campuses of Wilmington University and the University of Delaware. Dover’s rich history and diverse educational opportunities make it an attractive destination for college students of all interests.
Downtown Dover, known as the Loockerman Street Historic District, features a variety of shops, restaurants and cultural attractions. The Schwartz Center for the Arts, located in the heart of downtown, hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, plays and dance recitals.
Dover’s history is on full display at the First State Heritage Park, which encompasses several historic sites. The Air Mobility Command Museum, located at the Dover Air Force Base, provides an intriguing look at the history of military aviation.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Dover and the surrounding area. Silver Lake Park and the St. Jones River Greenway provide convenient access to outdoor recreation. The nearby Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, a major stop on the Atlantic Flyway, provides a stunning natural environment for wildlife observation and photography.
The largest city in Delaware, Wilmington is home to several colleges and universities, including Wilmington University, Goldey-Beacom College and Delaware College of Art and Design. As a major metropolitan area, Wilmington offers students a cosmopolitan college experience with all of the artistic and professional opportunities that are often reserved for larger towns.
Wilmington’s revitalized downtown, known as Riverfront, features a range of shops, restaurants and attractions. The Delaware Contemporary, an art museum located along the Riverfront, showcases the work of local and regional artists. The city also hosts numerous events throughout the year, like the Riverfront Blues Festival and the Wilmington Flower Market.
The city is home to several theaters, including The Playhouse on Rodney Square and The Queen, which host a wide range of performances. Wilmington’s lively nightlife scene is comprised of a variety of bars, clubs and live music venues, ensuring that there’s always something to do after the sun goes down.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Wilmington has several parks and green spaces, none more noteworthy than the Wilmington State Parks, which provides opportunities for walking, jogging, picnicking and so much more.
As an honorable mention on our list of best college towns in Delaware, Lewes is home to the University of Delaware College of Earth, Ocean and Environment. This charming coastal town, located where Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, offers a unique college experience in a picturesque seaside setting.
Downtown Lewes is known for its charming architecture and historic sites. This area features a variety of shops, restaurants and galleries. The town also hosts several annual events, like the Lewes Tulip Celebration and the Lewes Historical Society Craft Fair, which showcases the town’s commitment to preserving its history and fostering a creative community for years to come
Lewes’ coastal location offers numerous opportunities for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts. Cape Henlopen State Park and Delaware Seashore State Park provide beautiful settings for swimming, sunbathing and kayaking. The town also boasts several parks, which offer ample opportunities for walking, jogging and reconnecting with Mother Nature at the drop of a hat.
Settle down in a delightful Delaware college town
Delaware may be small in size, but it offers a variety of exceptional college towns, each providing a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural attractions and recreational opportunities.
Whether you’re drawn to Newark’s vibrant college atmosphere, Dover’s historic capital city charm, Wilmington’s cosmopolitan allure or Lewes’ unrivaled coastal beauty, there’s a college town in Delaware that’s perfect for you. These towns provide students with an ideal environment to thrive academically while enjoying a well-rounded college experience in the heart of the Mid-Atlantic region.
As the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, it’s the perfect time to give your home a fresh summer update. And what better place to start than your entryway? Not only is it the first impression guests get of your home, but it’s also a space that can quickly become cluttered and disorganized. With a few simple changes, you can turn your entryway into a welcoming oasis that’s both functional and stylish. From organizing solutions to decorative accessories, here are some of the best entryway decor ideas to refresh your space for the summer season.
1. Torbin Jute/Sisal Marble/Linen Rug
Photo: wayfair.com
Made from natural jute and sisal fibers, this rug adds a warm and inviting texture to your space while also being durable enough to withstand heavy foot traffic. The neutral marble and linen colors complement any decor style, while the reversible design allows for even wear and tear. Plus, the low pile height makes it easy to clean and maintain, so your entryway can always look its best.
Get the Torbin Jute/Sisal Marble/Linen Rug at Wayfair starting at $44.99
2. Hampshire Entryway Storage Bench
Photo: target.com
If you’re looking for a functional and stylish addition to your entryway, then the Hampshire Entryway Storage Bench from WyndenHall is a great choice. Constructed with solid wood, it provides both seating and storage. The two cubbies offer ample room to store shoes or other items, all in a classic design that can fit any home decor style.
Get the Hampshire Entryway Storage Bench at Target for $299.99
3. Seville Classics Water Hyacinth Storage Baskets
Photo: homedepot.com
Add a rustic charm to your entryway with the Seville Classics Water Hyacinth Storage Baskets. Crafted from hand-woven material, each set contains two versatile pieces that can be used for storage of shoes, accessories or other items. Featuring cutout handles on each basket makes it simple to move around as needed; perfect for an organized and on-trend foyer.
Get the Seville Classics Water Hyacinth Storage Baskets at Home Depot for $34.99
4. Holmquist Arch Wood Wall Mirror
Photo: wayfair.com
Every entryway needs a mirror, and this arched model is simultaneously classic and modern. The Holmquist Modern & Contemporary Accent Mirror from Astoria Grand is perfect for those last-minute checks before heading out the door. Measuring 40 inches in height, t’s the perfect size to sit on an entryway table. Plus, it’s easy to install using its conveniently preinstalled mounting hardware.
Get the Holmquist Arch Wood Wall Mirror at Wayfair for $216.99
Photo: wayfair.com
Every entryway needs wall hooks, and these ones feature a traditional style that will work in any space. They feature a sleek and stylish brushed oil rubbed bronze finish and are crafted from high-quality metal which gives them extra stability and strength to hold up to 35 pounds of weight making it the ideal choice for holding heavier items.
Get the 1.5” Wide Metal Wall Hook at Wayfair for $9.25
6. PARTPHONER Chandelier Pendant Light
Photo: amazon.com
Swapping out a dated light fixture can completely alter the look and feel of a space. This farmhouse-style chandelier is an ideal choice for transforming your entryway into a warm and inviting space. Featuring three lights within its open-cage design, it ensures plenty of illumination and can be adjusted to fit any height requirement you may have in order to customize it perfectly for your home.
Get the PARTPHONER Chandelier Pendant Light at Amazon for $79.99
7. Seirione 5-Tier Coat and Shoe Rack
Photo: amazon.com
This organizer is an ideal all-in-one solution for any entry. Stylish and functional, this organizer provides ample storage space with five hooks that are perfect for coats, bags as well as five shelves for shoes. Its compact size makes it a great choice for organizing smaller entryways and it comes with an anti-toppling kit to ensure safety and stability.
Get the Seirione 5-Tier Coat and Shoe Rack at Amazon for $92.94
8. Hydrangea Stem Arrangement
Photo: target.com
Not all entryways get enough natural light to keep plants alive, so some faux flowers may be necessary to brighten up the space. Luckily, there are plenty of options available for realistic-looking florals, like these hydrangeas from Target. They each measure 24 inches long and are sold by individual stem, allowing you to arrange them in any way you’d like.
Get the Hydrangea Stem Arrangement at Target for $5
The prices listed here are accurate as of publication on May 2, 2023.
You can enjoy the beauty of Seattle from the comfort of your apartment.
There’s no denying the natural beauty that surrounds Seattle. With so much to soak up outside, it’s important to prioritize the outdoor space in your apartment search. Set aside the need to live close to one of the delicious seafood restaurants in the city, and think about your in-unit amenities.
This list of luxury apartments will give you access to some of the best gardens in Seattle. From professional landscaping to community gardening and more, this list has what you’re looking for if you want to maximize your time outside at home in Seattle.
Source: Rent. / Promenade At The Park
Japanese Maples and a variety of other delicate trees and plants fill the rounded beds in the courtyard at Promenade At The Park. Set on the concrete, stone-encased spots of greenery keep this space feeling open and accessible; you can enjoy a meal or simply take a stroll walk for a peaceful moment of reflection just steps away from your front door.
Located about eight miles from the city center, this Lake City community fits nicely into the park-filled neighborhood. You can keep the chill vibes going from home with stops at a variety of parks and waterfront destinations throughout the area. Matthews Beach is just a stone’s throw away, which is the largest freshwater swimming beach in Seattle.
Source: Rent. / Harbor Steps
While urban views abound around Harbor Steps, you can enjoy a moment of zen surrounded by the greenery that is the interior courtyard. Marked by a few oversized rocks, this space allows you to take a calming moment within an otherwise busy spot of the city, it also doubles as a dog run so you and your four-legged roommate can enjoy this amenity together.
With the Seattle Art Museum across the street, living in the West Edge neighborhood has a variety of advantages. You’re only two blocks from Pike Place Market and are also close to Seattle University. Between these significant spots, you’ll find plenty of places to grab a bite or do some shopping.
Source: Rent. / Maris
Giving off a strong sense of tranquility, the courtyard at Maris combines two essential pieces necessary to make this space work — seating and greenery. While a variety of plants sit in the mulch, two large planters frame the space with their pines and other plant life. On the wood-paneled floor at the center, you’ll find a circle of comfy patio chairs waiting.
Not too far from the heart of Seattle, calling Fairmount Park home means access to some iconic city views. Known for its green spaces, playgrounds and recreation center, this is an ideal spot for those who like to keep active and enjoy spending time outside. One of the highlight locations is Lincoln Park, which also gets you right to the waterfront.
Source: Rent. / Rianna
Check out this great spot at Rianna. It’s elevated off the ground yet still has an undeniable European courtyard vibe. This space is full of small groups of seating, making it easy to gather with friends. Plenty of grass gives you that simple, outdoorsy feeling you may want after a day in the urban jungle. The views aren’t bad either.
With Downtown Seattle just minutes away, this Central District community really puts you in the middle of everything. You can walk to a variety of restaurants, boutiques and exciting nightlife options. The Metro is close by as well, so it’s easy to get around from this comfortable and convenient home base.
Source: Rent. / Urbana Apartments
Transforming the courtyard space into an ideal outdoor grilling/eating spot, Urbana Apartments makes it easy to dine alfresco. Two long tables sit parallel to dueling gas grills alongside ample prep space. This space is intelligently laid out and large enough to comfortably accommodate two groups at a time making it a truly unique amenity in the city.
Along the historic waterfront, you’ll find Adams, a hip neighborhood full of eclectic shops and excellent eateries. Highly walkable, this is an ideal place to live if you like to keep moving once you leave home for the day. From markets to cafes, shops to Salmon Bay, you may even find it hard to narrow down what to do with your free time.
Source: Rent. / Parla Apartments
Aluminum tubs set in perfect rows make up the rooftop garden at Parla Apartments. This community garden is open to all residents, ensuring everyone has easy access to fresh herbs and veggies. With planters full of tall trees on either side, this truly is the ideal place to try your hand at gardening.
With a combination of tree-lined streets and busy thoroughfares, Ballard offers a little bit of everything. There are plenty of shops and restaurants, but you’ve also got Puget Sound, Salmon Bay and North Beach around the perimeter. They give you plenty of excuses to get out on the water for some recreation. You can even see the tip of Mount Rainer from the roof of this stunning apartment community.
Source: Rent. / Alcyone
The greenery that greets you at Alcyone is so robust that it almost forms a complete arch over the entrance. Other potted plants occupy any open space making it truly feel like you’re leaving the city completely behind as you head into your cool Cascade community.
Source: Rent. / Metro on First
With limited space in an apartment, to make your outdoor space sparkle, you need to get up on the roof. At Metro on First, the rooftop space feels like a courtyard with plenty of potted plants and flowers, but it’s the view of Puget Sound that will really get you.
Perfectly situated among shops, restaurants, theaters, museums, parks and art galleries, Queen Anne is one of those neighborhoods that just has everything. This is also where you’ll find Seattle’s most recognizable feature, the Space Needle.
Source: Rent. / Uwajimaya Village
Perfecting the art of Zen, the courtyard at Uwajimaya Village will transport you to a garden in Japan. From the well-lit open-air lounge in the corner to the carefully manicured shrubbery and stone water feature, all the accents come together to create a unified space that’s ideal for relaxation.
Living in the International District of Seattle really does put you close to so much. You can check out the art galleries, cafes and bars in Pioneer Square to start. Then, walk over to Pike Place Market for the freshest of seafood. If you’re a sports fan, you’re also close to Lumen Field for football and T-Mobile Park for baseball.
Source: Rent. / Springline
Accent your cooking perfectly with easy access to a rooftop herb garden at Springline. Large containers hold all different types of herbs, growing in full sun up on the roof. When your next recipe calls for fresh basil or oregano, you won’t have to go to the store to get them.
This West Seattle community is all about the outdoors. You can hang out on Alki Beach, check out Puget Sound or walk and bike at Lincoln Park. This is an ideal area for everyone from hikers to sunbathers, kayakers to cyclists and all those in between. It’s also chock full of casual places to eat, cool coffeehouses and funky shops.
Grab an apartment with one of the best gardens in Seattle
If your next Seattle apartment won’t feel like home without a solid green space, you need this list. Whether you’re relaxing on the roof or cooling off in the courtyard, this is where you’ll find the best gardens in Seattle. Zero in on your perfect place and fill out an application today.
The place you lay your head to rest every night should be valued as highly as the load it carries.
Not to overstate things, but what you choose to rest sleep on determine how well-rested you are, which has mega health consequences in your everyday day.
Without a good night’s sleep, there’s less energy during the day to spend on all the activities that bring joy to your life and keep you happy and healthy.
So now that we’ve established how important your sleep is, let’s go into setting up your bed for optimal comfort and rest.
And no, I’m not saying that you should start thinking about renovating your bedroom. Technically, it’s you bed that should feel like your happy place, the place you go back to at the end of every day.
Your entire body should be comfortable throughout the night. The mattress should encourage better sleep postures and boost breathability.
When choosing your bed and shopping for a mattress, your top factors should be comfort level, size, quality, longevity, to mention the first few.
If you are wondering which mattress would be a top choice to look at, consider the natural bamboo mattress. Here are a few of the main reasons why this might be the best decision you make:
Pro-environment
Going green is great for the entire world. If there is anything we can do to help sustain and protect nature from harmful human intervention, we’re all for it.
Bamboos are natural resources that grow quickly but are also eco-friendly. In comparison to other material like cotton or timber, bamboo releases a lot more oxygen into the environment.
Variety in sizes
Like you would expect of any other type of mattress, bamboo mattresses come in different sizes. This means that you can quickly order 3 of the best king size mattress options for back pain at mattressgenius.com without any fails.
You can also get the Queen Size, twin size, or even, California king size. Thanks to these varieties, the natural bamboo mattresses make the perfect beds for side sleepers, back, and also front sleepers.
More comfortable than cotton mattresses
In comparing natural bamboo mattresses and cotton mattresses, you will notice that bamboo is softer than cotton.
This means that it is also a lot more comfortable for users than cotton mattresses. Besides, the comfort of the natural mattresses is not dependent on the seasons or weather changes.
Most people who opt for natural bamboo mattresses attest that they are incredibly comfortable, and unmatched by none in the market.
Hypoallergenic
People who struggle with allergies have the hardest time finding the right mattress to suit their needs. With the natural bamboo mattress, you do not have to go through the hassle of purchasing a non-allergen cover to help with your allergic triggers.
In fact, bamboo mattresses are known to be hypoallergenic. These mattresses are made with antibacterial and anti-microbial properties, which help prevent the formation of harmful bacteria and fungi that can cause allergic triggers.
This type of mattress is also resistant to dust mites, one of the most commonly encountered issue with regular mattresses. Thanks to this, you can enjoy a good night’s sleep without dust mites triggering your allergies.
Temperature regulation
Most people do not appreciate the fact that bamboo is a very porous material when used in its fabric form.
But it’s precisely this feature that makes it highly breathable by allowing free flow of air in and out. Instead of sweating through the night and coping with the challenge of heat trapped between your body and the mattress, enjoy a bamboo mattress that will let your body be cool throughout the night.
Besides, the natural bamboo mattresses come with the ability to absorb moisture. This means that even if you sweat into the night, you will not experience any type of uncomfortable pooling of the sweat.
The nature of the bamboo mattress ensures that the bedding does not stick to your body even after sweating. The pores of the bamboo mattress allow the sweat to evaporate quickly so you can enjoy a peaceful night.
Adequate spinal support
It is super important to have your back and neck laid out properly during sleep, for the sake of your spinal column.
Usually, the spinal column of your body has a natural curve that should be embraced for better spinal health.
A bamboo mattress will allow the proper inclination of your spine throughout the night, so make sure you pay special attention to this aspect when choosing your mattress.
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Frank Lloyd Wright is undoubtedly one of the most influential architects of all time.
A champion of organic architecture, a philosophy he promoted throughout his career that focuses on the harmony between human living and the natural world — incorporating buildings into their surroundings — Lloyd Wright designed more than 1,000 structures in his lifetime, out of which 532 were actually built.
Credited with building some of the most innovative spaces in the United States, Frank Lloyd Wright’s most famous works include the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York, the striking Fallingwater in Mill Run, Pennsylvania, Taliesin West in Scottsdale, Arizona, Hollyhock House in Los Angeles, California, Robie House and the Illinois Unity Temple in Oak Park, Illinois, the Tokyo Imperial Hotel in Inuyama, Japan, and the famous Blade Runner-featured Ennis House.
But of the hundreds of architecturally distinct homes he built in the span of his 70-year career, Lloyd Wright’s own home in his native Wisconsin has the most interesting — and downright tragic — backstory.
While undoubtedly one of the legendary architect’s best works, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin house was the site of a gruesome attack that took the life of Wright’s girlfriend and her two children.
It also burned to the ground (more than once), growing bigger every time the architect had to rebuild it. So let’s take a look at the storied history of Taliesin.
What is the story of Taliesin, Frank Lloyd Wright’s personal home in Wisconsin?
The American architect was born and raised in the Driftless Area of Wisconsin, which left a lasting impression on his young mind and inspired many of his most iconic works.
At the age of 29, in 1896, Wright built a windmill on the Taliesin estate, on land that belonged to his mother’s family.
The project, requested by his aunt, was the first in a series of developments that over the years became part of the 600-acre Taliesin estate as we know it today.
Wright would return to his homeland of Taliesin in 1911, under more controversial circumstances.
In the early 1900s, Wright was married to Catherine Lee Tobin, had six children, and was living in Oak Park, Illinois.
He was then tasked to design a house for his friend and neighbor Edwin Cheney when he fell in love with his friend’s wife, Mamah Borthwick Cheney.
In a daring and controversial move, the two lovers ran off to Europe, where their affair flourished, and when they returned to the U.S., they wanted a place to call their own, far from the judgmental eyes of the public.
That’s when Frank Lloyd Wright decided to leave his Chicago family behind, return to his roots and build a house for himself and Mamah in the secluded hills of Taliesin.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin I — the “love cottage” with a harrowing story
Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin I, as we now call it, was completed in 1911 near Spring Green, Wisconsin, to serve as the home of Wright and Borthwick.
The home/studio that Wright created is the quintessential representation of the architect’s Prairie School design.
Wright described the 12,000-square-foot house as ‘low, wide, and snug,’ and that’s exactly what it is.
The house, which was named after the Welsh bard Taliesin — and translates into ‘radiant brow’ — was the result of Wright’s attempt to blend man-made structures and materials with nature and the elements.
The house had an open-space design, with windows placed so that the sun could come through in every room at every point of the day.
All the materials used in the construction were locally sourced, in an effort to seamlessly integrate the house with its surroundings.
Wright was a big fan of Japanese culture and architecture, and he was inspired to bring a taste of Japan to Taliesin, as well. The architect’s home included an artificial lake stocked with fish and aquatic fowl, a water garden, as well as a ‘tea circle’ in the middle of the spacious, green courtyard.
The home that Wright built was stunning, and to this day it remains one of his most beautiful creations.
The beauty of Taliesin, however, did not do much to impress those living in nearby communities, who disapproved of Wright’s relationship with Borthwick.
At the time the couple lived in Wisconsin, Borthwick had divorced Cheney, but Wright was still married, as Catherine Tobin refused him a divorce. Due to the scandalous aspect of their relationship, locals and media dubbed Taliesin ‘the Love Cottage.’
Nonetheless, the couple lived happily at Taliesin, joined by Mamah Borthwick’s two children and a number of household workers and employees.
Among those employees were Julian Carlton, a handyman and servant, and his wife Gertrude.
In 1914, the 31-year-old worker started acting strangely, becoming more and more paranoid and staring out the windows holding an axe. Given his strange behavior, Wright and Borthwick decided to let the couple go, and they gave Carlton and his wife notice in mid-August.
The events that followed the next day, on August 15, 1914, were so shocking that Taliesin will unfortunately forever be associated with them.
That August day, while Wright was away on business, Julian Carlton attacked Mamah Borthwick and her two children, ending their lives.
He then turned against the other members of the household, after which he set the house on fire.
His killing spree ended the lives of Borthwick, her two children, as well as two other workers and their young boy.
Following the attack, Carlton hid in the basement’s fireproof furnace and swallowed hydrochloric acid in an attempt to end his own life. Somehow, he survived, and he was arrested and taken into custody.
While awaiting his trial and sentencing, he died of starvation, as the acid he swallowed had burned his esophagus to the extent that he could no longer eat.
Carlton’s wife was luckily not in the house at the time, as she was waiting for her husband to join her on a train to Chicago.
Taliesin II – Frank Lloyd Wright rebuilds his Wisconsin house
Taliesin I was, in large part, destroyed, and Frank Lloyd Wright was left heartbroken, losing the love of his life and the beloved home that they shared.
He was so devastated that he couldn’t even bring himself to hold a vigil or a formal funeral for Borthwick, instead burying her in an unmarked grave in a nearby graveyard.
However, Wright soon got back on his feet and decided to rebuild Taliesin.
By the end of 1914, he had built Taliesin II, and had found companionship in Miriam Noel, who sent him a condolence letter after that summer’s massacre.
Wright, however, only settled in at Taliesin II in 1922, after he finished work on the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo.
RELATED: Frank Lloyd Wright’s Ennis House also known as The Blade Runner House
He was finally granted a divorce by Catherine Tobin, and married Miriam Noel in 1923. The marriage, however, was doomed to not last, as Noel’s erratic behavior, later diagnosed as schizophrenia, led to a tense relationship between her and Wright.
Noel eventually left Wright and moved out of Taliesin II in 1924. One year later, in an eerie turn of events, Taliesin II burned to the ground due to faulty wiring, and Wright was back to square one.
However, like a phoenix, Taliesin would rise from the ashes once again.
Taliesin III – Wright rebuilds it once more, but the costs drive it into foreclosure
Even after two fires tried to destroy his work, Frank Lloyd Wright was not ready to give up on Taliesin, and he rebuilt it once again, as Taliesin III.
Each time the architect had to revamp Taliesin, the house grew bigger.
In its third and final form, Taliesin featured 37,000 square feet, and all the buildings on the estate combined totaled no less than 75,000 square feet on 600 acres of land.
The third reconstruction of Taliesin did, however, create a pretty big dent in Wright’s pockets, and he was severely in debt at the time work on Taliesin III was finished.
In 1927, the Bank of Wisconsin foreclosed on the property, and the architect moved to La Jolla, California, forced to leave his beloved hilltop home behind.
His fans and students, however, devised a plan to have the revered architect reunited with Taliesin.
Darwin Martin, a former client of Wright’s, formed a company dubbed Frank Lloyd Wright Inc., to issue stock on the architect’s future earnings. Various other clients and students purchased stock and ended up successfully bidding on Taliesin for $40,000, giving it back to Wright.
SEE ALSO: The Chemosphere House and 6 other striking John Lautner-designed homes
Thankfully, the innovative design and historic importance of Taliesin were recognized by Wright’s clients and admirers, and the efforts to preserve and keep the estate alive paid off.
In January 1976, Taliesin was named a National Historic Landmark District by the National Park Service. More than three decades later, Taliesin was one of the buildings included in The 20th Century Architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a selection of eight buildings designed by the architect across the U.S.
Today, Taliesin is a historical and architectural gem, and Frank Lloyd Wright fans can visit the estate on professional, guided tours.
If you’re an architecture fan, a student, or design aficionado and you’re ever traveling near Spring Green, Wisconsin, you don’t want to miss out on the chance to visit Taliesin.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Taliesin?
Frank Lloyd Wright’s house in Wisconsin, Taliesin, is located at 5481 County Road C, Spring Green, WI 53588, USA, about 2.5 miles south of the village of Spring Green in the Driftless Region of southwestern Wisconsin.
What does the word Taliesin mean?
Taliesin is a gender-neutral name of Welsh origin, meaning “radiant brow” made famous by a 6th Century Welsh bard who is said to have performed at the courts of three different kings. Lloyd Wright reportedly named his house in Wisconsin Taliesin to signal that was “of the hill,” not on it, building it below the hillcrest, on its brow rather than its crown.
Did Frank Lloyd Wright rebuild Taliesin?
The legendary architect had to rebuild his Taliesin house in Wisconsin twice. The first time was in 2014 after a gruesome attack by employee Julian Carlton who ended the lives of Wright’s then-girlfriend, Mamah Borthwick and her two children, and then set the house on fire. The second time was in 1925 when Taliesin burned to the ground due to faulty wiring.
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If you’re a fan of vintage style, there’s no reason why your home can’t reflect your passion for all things retro. When antique and vintage pieces are incorporated into a room, they bring a distinctive flair. Often, these items are chosen to reflect an individual’s personality and life experiences. Vintage styles are appealing in part due to their warm, neutral colour palettes, which feature comforting beige tones. To pay tribute to these designs, wall panels, flooring, ceiling features, and other elements are often painted in shades like walnut brown, brick red, olive green, Prussian blue, and mustard, among others. From antique furniture to classic decor pieces, there are countless ways to transform your house into a vintage haven. (Also read: Home decor tips: Time-honoured decor pieces for culture and art enthusiasts )
Tips to add vintage flair to your home decor
Talking with HT Lifestyle, Raghunandan Saraf, Founder and CEO, Saraf Furniture, says, “Your options for elegant improvements are virtually limitless when it comes to vintage chandeliers. Get a few different-sized iron chandeliers and hang them in your living room at various heights. Even old bottles can be used as light fixtures to give your chandeliers a unique antique feel. A wooden swing or jhoola nicely captures the old vibe for larger, more open houses. The swing, which is located inside the room rather than on the porch or veranda, is the focal point of a vintage living space. The chest is one of the most adaptable pieces of furniture that has been handed down from the antique era to the modern era. Incorporate one in your house to fill the vibe.”
Gopal Suthar, Founder of Furniselan, shared with HT Lifestyle, “Without a rocking chair in the home, you cannot think vintage. They add a sense of occasional playfulness and sometimes seriousness, and it is perfect for unwinding with a book or Kindle! You can set the gently padded rocking chair in your study, living room, or even on your veranda. Create a DIY retro space in the hallway. The vintage luggage, old-fashioned clock, and ornate light fixture all speak for themselves. The charming wooden bench completes the appearance. More than anything else, the characterful side of textures is discussed in all things old and vintage. It is a place where the stone can be its unprocessed self which is natural nature, and metal can dazzle its brushed finishes.”
“Old-fashioned, retro statements convey the old-world charm in a way that is both lovely and nostalgic. The appearance, feel, and character of the past are celebrated while also playing with a faint undercurrent of familiarity. The puzzle pieces seamlessly fit together to form a story and produce an engaging atmosphere. Every piece creates a statement when using historic pieces, and each statement helps to create the home’s distinctive personality, “says Gopal.
In conclusion, turning your house into a vintage haven can be an enjoyable and fulfilling project. This style is timeless and can add unique character and charm to your home. By incorporating a variety of vintage elements, such as antique furniture, vintage textiles, and vintage- inspired decor, you can create a cohesive and inviting space that reflects your personal style. Remember to tailor your vintage design to your tastes and needs so that it is both functional and beautiful. Whether your goal is to create a cozy cottage or a grand Victorian estate, incorporating these sophisticated ways is sure to make your house a classic and timeless home.