The 6 Best Bookshelves To Finally Organize That TBR Pile In Style

Huge glass walls throughout the house blur the line between indoors and out, making the whole place feel super connected to nature. It’s a fresh take on desert living — grounded in its surroundings and full of personality.

1. Lean Into Cozy Seating

It’s the kind of place that invites you to sink in, unwind, and soak up the desert calm. While Francesca paid homage to the spirit of Palm Springs, she intentionally steered away from the typical mid-century vibe, bringing something fresh and unexpected instead. “Drawing from my travels in France and Italy, I incorporated hues that evoke a sense of warmth and comfort, ensuring the interiors resonate with the desert landscape while maintaining a timeless appeal," says Francesca.

The moment you step inside, it’s a stunning visual experience. Desert views are perfectly framed, while Francesca’s thoughtful use of color and sculptural furniture mirrors the rugged landscape and captures the magic of the desert light.

Here’s a peek at those spectacular indoor-outdoor views that give the home a serene, spa-like feel — and turn every window into a work of art.

2. Use An Earthy Palette

The color scheme was influenced by the natural surroundings of Palm Springs and Francesca's affinity for earthy, rich tones. And that velvet platform bed? The curved edges make it feel extra inviting—so much softer and cozier than sharp lines.

3. Maximize Views

This dreamy bathroom is beyond beautiful thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows that invite the desert in and an elegant design. "Floor-to-ceiling windows were left unadorned or dressed with minimal treatments to frame the natural beauty without obstruction," says Francesca.

Even the walk-in closet comes with a picture-perfect view of the desert — because why not?

4. Embrace Natural Stone

A bold marble sink adds just the right amount of edge to this neutral bathroom, keeping the design layered, luxe, and anything but boring.

5. Blend Textures

Francesca sourced a boulder from the surrounding land and transformed it into a custom coffee table, merging the connection between indoors and outdoors.

“Texture is my love language," says Francesca. "It’s how I bring emotion into a space without shouting. For this home, I layered everything: marble, smooth leather, raw woods with polished stone, sheer linen next to rich velvet. The palette might be neutral, but the materials are doing all the talking. That contrast keeps the eye engaged and creates a sense of quiet luxury that doesn’t try too hard," she adds.

That marble fireplace is also a work of art. The stunning desert landscape significantly influenced the layout and styling choices. “I positioned seating areas to maximize views of the outdoors, creating a seamless connection between the interior and exterior spaces.

The kitchen acts as a breezy bridge between the entry and the back of the house, creating a clean, open space that balances all the surrounding coziness.

Here’s the view from the dining area — and I’m obsessed with the textured pendant lights. They bring a soft, organic touch that beautifully balances the kitchen’s harder lines.

6. Mix In Vintage Pieces

Francesca mixed in a few vintage finds and unexpected accents to keep things fresh and dynamic, but her LA shop Somme really set the tone. “There’s something really special about designing pieces that already have a story and a soul behind them—and being able to place them in a home like this just adds another layer of intention. I wanted the furnishings to feel elevated but livable, with just the right amount of edge," says Francesca.

7. Go Bold With Art

For this home, Francesca worked closely with Creative Art Partners (CAP) to curate the perfect art collection that she says "felt intentional, emotional, and deeply tied to the spirit of the space."

“Our goal was to create a narrative through the art — each piece had to serve a purpose, whether it added a punch of color, an unexpected texture, or a provocative element that brought energy to a room. That said, because this is a staged home, we were thoughtful about how far we pushed certain pieces. There’s a fine line between bold and polarizing, so we curated selections that had impact without alienating potential buyers. CAP was an amazing partner in helping us strike that balance and tell a cohesive story throughout the home,” she said.

8. Balance A Cozy Minimalism

Striking the right balance between cozy and clean called for thoughtful layering and intentional decor choices. It’s all about avoiding clutter without letting the space feel cold or sterile.

"I focus on incorporating plush textiles, ambient lighting, and personal artifacts to add warmth, while maintaining an uncluttered environment by curating pieces that serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. This philosophy ensures the space feels inviting without visual overload," she says.

Here's the dreamy home in the middle of the desert, stunning view inside and out.

Here's how the home is lit at dusk, simply beautiful.

Palm Springs feels almost otherworldly — the perfect desert escape.

1. Popcorn Ceilings

Popcorn ceilings can be an '80s-era eyesore, and new buyers don't want to deal with it. That's because many older popcorn ceilings contain asbestos, which can be hazardous if you mess with it. Make sure to have a pro test it before attempting to remove it. You can have it removed (best for homes without asbestos), cover it with drywall, or install wood planks like bead board or shiplap for a classic look.

2. Tiled or Laminate Countertops

Tiled countertops with worn grout or outdated laminate surfaces are long past their prime — it’s time for an upgrade, and you won’t regret it! There’s nothing like prepping meals on a fresh, clean surface that feels as good as it looks. Opt for quartz, a non-porous, low-maintenance choice that comes in a variety of colors and patterns. Natural stone like marble, soapstone, or quartzite are timeless, and butcher block in light oak is perfect for a modern farmhouse aesthetic.

3. Golden Oak Cabinets

You don't necessarily need to swap out these stained wood cabinets that were once popular in '80s and '90s builds. Simply sand and give them a fresh coat of paint: Check out our Kitchen Cabinet Paint Colors for 2025 for inspiration!

4. Outdated Fixtures

My mom had this exact bathroom sink fixture, and while she was gearing up for a pricey bathroom reno, I suggested a simple swap instead. I told her to replace just the fixture with something more modern, and she was beyond pleased with the results!

5. Brightly Painted Rooms

Kids are going to want bedroom paint colors that adults simply do not. Instead of committing to a wild wall color, consider a sophisticated neutral as the backdrop and incorporate their favorite hue through easily changeable items like bedding, decor, and artwork. Win-win!

6. Boob Lights

Replace any old light fixtures, like these ubiquitous "boob" lights, with an elegant ceiling mount or pendant.

7. Brass Mirror Closet Doors

If replacing the doors with modern wood doors isn’t an option, consider using matte spray paint or adhesive metal trim to give the brass a more modern finish in white or matte black.

8. Hollywood-Style Strip Lighting

Swap the kitschy strip lights for sleek wall sconces or a modern LED vanity light. Position sconces on either side of the mirror for balanced lighting. Look for matte black, brushed brass, or frosted glass finishes to instantly elevate your space.

9. Showers With Sliding Doors

Frameless glass enclosure are a modern upgrade to these outdated sliding doors. If a full replacement isn’t in the budget, consider an elegant shower curtain for a vintage-modern vibe.

10. Lack of Quality Window Treatments

My friend’s Tahoe home has no window treatments because she loves waking up to the sun. (As someone who prefers total darkness, I always pack an eye mask when I visit!) But her realtor recently advised that you needs to add well-made, well-fitted window treatments if she plans to sell or rent. Linen Roman shades or velvet drapes can elevate the space while adding warmth and privacy. For the best fit and style, consider working with a window treatment specialist to find the perfect solution for your home.

11. Outdated Ceiling Fans

Elements like ceiling fans come with the home purchase so make sure they're updated. Look for modern energy-efficient models with matte black, brushed nickel, or wood-toned finishes and remote or smart controls.

12. Bulky Furniture

Make sure your furniture fits the room — too big can feel cramped, too small can feel sparse. While pieces don’t need to be matchy-matchy, they should complement each other for a cohesive, well-balanced look. Look for an 8 x 10 rug or larger too to fit the space and hide any clutter!

13. Grey Laminate Flooring

Gray laminate flooring was once everywhere, but it’s officially time to move on — just like those gray sofas. Choose flooring that mimics the warmth of natural wood tones, such as light oak or rich walnut. If replacing the floors isn’t an option, layer in natural woven or wool rugs.

14. Too Much Ornamentation

Remove any ornamentation that feels out of place in your home or doesn’t align with your style. For an ornate built-in like this, consider painting it a single, cohesive color to tone down the detailing and create a more seamless, modern look.

15. Awkward Layout

To make your space modern and more inviting, start with a focal point (fireplace, TV, or statement art) and arrange seating around it for conversation. Use a sofa and chairs to create balance, adding a coffee table within reach. Incorporate side tables, lighting, and a rug to define the space. Make sure walkways are for better flow and functionality too. Color can make a big difference too, earthy tones with natural elements will make a room feel more inviting.

1. Ellie is dealing with some major trauma.

In The Last of Us season 1, episode 8 "When We Are in Need," we had the unpleasant experience of meeting a man named David, who says he's a pastor who found God. And over the course of the anxiety-inducing 51 minutes, David kidnaps Ellie, Joel attacks David's men to get her location, and, oh, Ellie realizes David has turned the group into cannibals without their knowledge.

At the end of the episode, David attempts to sexually assault Ellie while the lodge burns down around them. Ellie winds up killing him with a literal meat cleaver before stumbling outside covered in his blood. (I still think about this scene, I hate it so much).

Joel finds her, and from this moment until the end of episode 9, Ellie's a changed person (duh). She's still curious and fun, but she's definitely more closed off than she was before — and we'll have to see how much it affects her five years later.

2. ​Joel saves Ellie at the expense of the Firefly hospital.

Ellie's troubles are far from over after her run-in with David. In episode 9, "Look for the Light," Joel and Ellie arrive in Salt Lake City. After a very sweet conversation about how she helped Joel heal from his daughter Sarah's death that had me emotional, the Firefly rebels arrive and both knock Joel out and take Ellie.

Joel wakes up in a hospital room, where he learns that the Fireflies will operate on Ellie (who's immune, remember) to get the cure for the infection. The only problem? She won't make it out alive. And in a fit of pure paternal rage, he takes out the entire hospital, including both doctors and soldiers.

3. Ellie is immune thanks to her mom.

The show finally explains Ellie's immunity in the final episode during a flashback. Ellie's mom, Anna, gives birth to our leading lady right around the moment she's attacked by an immune. And since the umbilical cord still connects Ellie and Anna, the cordyceps infection enters Ellie's body, and immune system, differently than if she'd been bitten.

4. Joel and Ellie return to Jackson.

The beginning of The Last of Us saw Joel trying to find his brother Tommy, and they do reunite in episode 6, "Kin." After everything that happens at the hospital, Joel and Ellie head back to Tommy's home in Jackson to start their new lives alongside Tommy, his wife Maria, and the rest of the town (including Dina and Jesse, two new friends Ellie has in season 2).

5. Joel lies to Ellie about the cure.

Perhaps the most important thing to remember about The Last of Us ending is that not only does Joel kill a dozen Fireflies, but he tells Ellie that there were multiple immune people, and that raiders had attacked the hospital. Ellie doesn't know that the cure would cost her life, but she's obviously disappointed by the fact she couldn't help — especially since it's clear she feels like her purpose as an immune is to help develop a cure.

In the final moments of the episode, she tells Joel to swear he was telling the truth. And when he does, all she says is, "Okay."