Guest Picks: Household Basics That Don't Do Boring
You'll never look at can openers, filing cabinets, key holders and more the same way again
camillaleila
December 22, 2013
I’m so drawn to really well-designed and unique everyday items. Power strips and extension cords are not the first things that come to mind when decorating, but these small touches can add a lot to thoughtful home decor. And just because most garden hoses come in one boring color doesn’t mean they all have to, right? While some of these items (ahem, gorgeous La Cornue stove) might break the bank, many of the other things on this list would be awesome Christmas presents. I know I’d appreciate any of these for years to come. — Camilla from Camilla Leila
Best Made Company
I’m not sure why it didn’t occur to me years ago to hunt for a well-designed extension cord. I would be happy to see this thing in my home.
Best Made Company
I sort of love this unique can opener, even if I don’t completely understand how it works.
COOL MATERIAL
What a cool way to store matches! I am constantly looking for a lighter or a box of matches around my house, and I love this idea.
COOL MATERIAL
A magnetic keychain and key holder combination would be a really sweet stocking stuffer for the busy workaholic in your life.
Pedlars
My husband and I have puppies on our minds, and I have been hunting for a leash. I think I’ve found it!
I still think design has a long way to go in the power strip department, but I appreciate this one. It’s simple but functional, and I think I’d smile every time I looked at it.
Williams-Sonoma Home
I’ve written about this garden hose before, and I still think it’s a great product.
You might not believe it when I say that my husband and I have massive frustration with our current garbage can. It’s sleek and modern, sure, but a total pain to use. I love the look and size of this one.
Mills Fleet Farm
I’m not a fan of those big plastic garbage bins that the city makes you keep your outdoor garbage in. I’d much rather use this one. (And I do — I keep all my chicken feed in bins like this.)
L.L. Bean
I love the simplicity of this fire tool set. Now if only I had a fireplace.
Laundry bins like these might not work for me because I have to lug my laundry downstairs, but I think they look really cool, and I want them anyway.
I’m so sick of my boring microwave, and I love the retro look of this one.
Williams-Sonoma Home
If I had a toaster like this, you’d find me staring at it every morning.
Williams-Sonoma
This is my dream. Huge stainless steel stoves are great and all, but why not add a little more character to the kitchen?
Twenty Gauge
I never understood the importance of file cabinets until I got married and (sort of) became an adult. I can’t get past all the terrible file cabinets out there, but I am fond of this towering beauty. It might even be something to consider as a DIY project.
Groomsmen.com
It seems there are a million things to charge these days: phones, cameras, MP3 players, tablets etc. I think an organizational unit like this is essential. Plus, it would take care of the messiness that comes with things charging all over the place.
Best Made Company
As much as I appreciate my little orange tool kit from Ikea, I think I would be much happier reaching for the hammer if it were stored in something as cool as this.
Next: Styling Basics: 8 Favorite Accessories to Finish Your Space
Next: Styling Basics: 8 Favorite Accessories to Finish Your Space
What are you working on?
Related Products
We are a team of home design experts with over 30 years collective experience in custom cabinets and kitchen... Read More
Related Stories
Product Picks
Guest Picks: Neutral Tableware Eases Us Into Autumn
Work these pieces in with the flatware, glasses and placemats you already have for fall flair without a major overhaul
Full Story
Product Picks
Guest Picks: Fill That Corner in Style
By Suzy C
Get more storage or simply a nicer view with plant stands, desks, wine bars and other corner-perfect pieces
Full Story
Product Picks
Guest Picks: Accessories That Are Perfect for Fall
Bring on rich textures, deep colors and intoxicating scents to put your home in an autumn state of mind
Full Story
Product Picks
Guest Picks: Accessories for a Stylish, Organized Entryway
By Emily Fazio
Tracked-in mud and lost mittens? Not with these entryway finds, which include kid-friendly options
Full Story
Product Picks
Guest Picks: Stay Charged
It’s power to the people with the coolest smartphone and tablet chargers, stations and cord organizers on the block
Full Story
Product Picks
Guest Picks: Shed a Little Light on the Subject
By Claudia Hill
These smart-looking task lamps will add functionality and style to your study space or desk
Full Story
Product Picks
Guest Picks: Stylish Desks for the Student in All of Us
By Erin Cook
Nicely sized and reasonably priced, these attractive desks are great for kids and grown-ups alike
Full Story
Product Picks
Guest Picks: Awesome Orange Accents
Get into the fall spirit with lighting, pillows, vases and even furniture in the color of falling leaves
Full Story
Product Picks
Guest Picks: Heed Your Animal Instinct
Avoid beastly dullness by bringing in the raw energy of animal prints, patterns and accessories
Full Story
Product Picks
Guest Picks: Light the Way to Fall Days
Let the glow of these stylish table and floor lamps make the transition from summer to fall a bit easier
Full Story
And I am also depressed when I see ugly things that people fawn over just BECAUSE it costs a ton.