This Light and Airy California Home Makeover Is #Shelfie Goals

What’s the secret to a great #shelfie? Is it all about the succulents? The well-loved books? Getting the lighting just right? No matter how you prep for a perfect snap, one thing’s for certain: It’d be practically impossible to take a bad photo if you lived in this light, airy, shelf-filled home. Homepolish designer Nina Jizhar transformed the space from a blank slate to a welcoming, cozy retreat with plenty of California-cool style to spare.

Inspired by her clients’ natural knack for collecting, Jizhar made plenty of space for open shelving throughout the living areas. “My clients have phenomenal taste and really appreciate a beautiful, livable space. They’re not afraid of having open shelving, because they know they will keep [the shelves] styled,” Jizhar tells us. “I injected as much as open shelving possible in numerous spaces in the house to align with the bright and airy feel we were going for.”

Jizhar wanted the space to feel unfussy, so she made sure there were plenty of spaces to store items behind closed doors too. Her rule of thumb? “Display plates, bowls and mugs in a neutral color so they don’t look busy. Then leave all the items that are not easily contained behind closed doors.” A mix of open and closed storage makes the home more practical (and easy to tidy) while also showcasing treasured items.

Matte black light fixtures in a variety of styles fill the home, creating a sleek, refreshing alternative to more flashy metals. “I feel like the black light fixtures aren’t ‘trendy,’ but are on-trend. As long as you keep it simple and classic, they are timeless. These spaces feature a lot of whites and wood tones, so having the fixtures in black add a really nice contrast to the space,” Jizhar explains.

Though the color scheme of the home is largely neutral, small pops of color provide tons of character. “Keeping the walls white and adding big-ticket items such as the sectional sofa in a neutral palette make for a great backdrop to showcase textiles with bolder colors and patterns,” says Jizhar. “Layering is the key, but edit, edit, and edit! Greenery also contributed to the warm and cozy feel.”

Diverse wood tones and natural leathers epitomize the laid-back, West Coast vibe we love. The secret to keeping the look pared down is employing tons of hidden storage around the room. In fact, Jizhar says, her favorite element of the design was the built-ins. “They really enhanced the interior architecture of the house and keep clutter away,” she says. This storage-enhanced window seat looks like such a dreamy place to soak up some sun on the weekend.

Even the office space has open shelving, proving it can work just about anywhere. Jizhar suggests leaving most of these areas styled so they always look great, and turning to hidden storage for more workaday items. “Closed storage is also a great addition to your launch pad-landing pad area, and it make tidying up a space faster and easier,” she says. (We’re always in favor of quicker cleanup times!)

RELATED: This Blogger’s LA Home Went from Basic to Beautiful in Under 30 Days

(Images via Helynn Ospina for Homepolish)

Cameron Diaz's home exchange in Nancy Meyers' The Holiday is a cozy girl's dreamy holiday escape. And while Jude Law totally crushed our dreams by telling us that house isn't actually real, I found an IRL home that's totally just as good. This charming cottage is straight out of a storybook, with stacks of books, a literal crackling fireplace, and vintage-style furniture that beg you to curl up with a cup of tea. Cue this 1923 sbtorybook cottage in Los Angeles. Kirsten Blazek of LA-based a1000xbetter leaned into her warm and cozy side and embraced whimsical wallpapers and comfy furniture when restoring the '90s-era remodel back to its original charm, while also making sure it made sense for a modern, young family.

See the quaint, Nancy Meyers-inspired cottage remodel here!

1. Rich, Warm Colors

Michael P.H. Clifford

Kirsten chose a cohesive color palette throughout the home to give the overall feeling of warmth. The home features classic prints, curated art, and furniture that nods to the home’s past.

2. Luxe, Comfy Furniture

Michael P.H. Clifford

Furnishings from home decor shops like Soho Home, Arhaus, and Maiden Home, paired with bold Morris & Co wallpaper and vintage rugs creates a warm, cozy, and inviting space. Think cottagecore but elevated!

3. Larger-Than-Life Bookshelves

Michael P.H. Clifford

Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves frame the outdoors and give the home an old-world English cottage feel.

4. 1920s-Inspired Decor

Michael P.H. Clifford

But it's this bath that stopped me in my tracks. So stunning! The home hails from the roaring '20s and elements like unlacquered brass hardware, natural stone countertops, and a B&W silent film print make subtle calls to that era. I adore the scalloped backsplash.

5. Whimsical Wallpaper

Michael P.H. Clifford

"We wanted to choose a wallpaper for the child bedroom that was also whimsical but had a level of sophistication that meant it wouldn’t feel too young as the years progressed," says Kirsten.

6. Cozy Lamps

Michael P.H. Clifford

The Lawns Prospect Park Mural Wallpaper was the starting point for Kirsten's other choices in the room that include a vintage bed and table lamps from Amazon.

7. Vintage-Inspired Lighting

Michael P.H. Clifford

Vintage-style sconces and handmade ceramic tile in the master bathroom echo the past in a freshly designed bathroom. Love the idea of a table lamp here too.

8. Antique Furniture Accents

Michael P.H. Clifford

Kirsten chose an arched alcove around the bath with a tall vintage chair. "The alcove adds depth and interest to the room and felt aligned with the intrinsic architecture in the home," she says. What a happy ending!

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The MCU isn't done with the Multiverse just yet. After Kevin Feige announced Robert Downey Jr. would star as Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday at San Diego Comic Con, it appears we'll see another OG Avenger in the movie: Chris Evans! But will he star as Steve Rogers/Captain America or Johnny Storm like he did in Deadpool & Wolverine? (Or Heaven forbid, another Doctor Doom.)

Here's everything we know about Chris Evans' reported return to the MCU in Avengers: Doomsday, coming May 1, 2026.

We could see more than one Captain America in 'Avengers: Doomsday.'

Deadline confirmed that Chris Evans would step back into the Marvel Cinematic Universe on December 9, and their sources also say Anthony Mackie will return as Sam Wilson's version of Captain America. Maybe we'll see another Cap vs. Cap battle like we saw in 2019's Avengers: Endgame?

In addition to Chris Evans and RDJ, we'll reportedly also see the Fantastic Four (Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, and Joseph Quinn), and I'm hoping for confirmation we'll be reunited with Tom Holland's Peter Parker, Iman Vellani's Kamala Khan, and Hailee Steinfeld's Kate Bishop.

Avengers: Doomsday is directed by Joe and Anthony Russo, so I'm sure it'll have the same magic of the old school Marvel movies we know and love!

Marvel Studios

Some fans were not happy when Endgame ended with Steve Rogers returning the Infinity Stones to their respective timelines and staying in the 1940s to begin a life with Peggy (basically opening up a brand new timeline). His entire arc since Captain America: The First Avenger in 2011 had been about his relationship with Bucky Barnes, and fighting to help a Hydra-brainwashed Bucky return to his true self. Ditching his newfound family for Peggy simply feels like a character regression. But it looks like Doomsday could be a step in fixing that.

"I need Steve and Bucky together again," one Instagram user says. Another points out that Chris' involvement could be "a flashback to get people excited, but I hope it’s Captain Hydra. Give me Bucky fighting Captain Hydra!" Bucky vs. Evil Steve and Peter Parker vs. Doctor Doom would be the craziest plot twist of the century (especially if Doom is really an evil Tony Stark variant)!

Here's what Chris Evans has said about returning to Marvel.

Chris Evans has been vocal in the past about needing a really good reason to return to the MCU, which means Avengers: Doomsday must be one heck of a script! "I would never say never, but I'm very protective of it," Chris said on an episode of the The View in 2023 (via Boston.com). "It's a very precious role to me, so it would have to be just right."

Well call me Goldilocks because the cast and crew on Doomsday (and the story, of course) must have been perfect! Stay tuned for the latest news on Chris Evans and the future of the MCU!

Would you want to see Chris Evans (and Steve Rogers) return to the MCU? In addition to Avengers: Doomsday, read up on the 5 New Marvel Movies Worth Watching!

The recent trend toward warmer hues like burgundy, terra cotta, olive, and brown, has had me rethinking my blue-leaning home. I've been sprinkling in things like pale pink pillowcases, a burgundy throw blanket, and olive green rug, and loving my warmer aesthetic. But then Amanda Leigh and Taylor Hahn, of celeb-loved design firm House of Rolison, stopped me in my redecorating tracks with their latest bathroom renovation.

Take a look at this stunning blue bathroom renovation that I can't get enough of — plus tips on how to transform your own space!

Nils Timm

In the middle of an earthy 1940s Spanish Colonial home, this stunning cobalt blue bath alcove feels like a refreshing, bold and unexpected moment of calm. And I'm obsessed.

"Historically, Spanish-style homes did incorporate deep blues and greens and we wanted to honor that as well as just a fun play on words given the iconic street name, Bluebird Ave," says Amanda. I love that homage. Once a closet, the bath's arch opening creates a tucked-in feeling around the tub with Zia Tile in Night Blue as the dramatic facade.

Nils Timm

"We made sure to wrap the home in windows, which brought the landscaping into the color palette giving us the opportunity to mix greens, blues, reds and dusty olives into the design," says Taylor.

The pair took a fresh take on Spanish design while keeping the home's soul intact. A deep low-profile sofa sets the tone for its elevated yet warm and casual vibe. "We appreciate structural and architectural integrity while allowing every room to tell a story," says Amanda.

Nils Timm

Each room feels like a chapter in a book, woven together with earthy tones, Spanish Colonial charm, and sleek contemporary design. “We love to play around with various monochromatic palettes," adds Amanda. "Generally people stray from cold colors and right now burgundy and reds are trending, which fall very heavily on the warm scale. We found a way to compliment both."

Nils Timm

The design duo, who are also engaged!, used Viola marble throughout the home to add unique texture, a bold statement, and an organic feel.

Nils Timm

The rich hues create an old-world feel throughout, including in the master bedroom's lounge area. Black-framed windows and elements with darker tones pair perfectly with warm woods and the dramatic stone featured in the kitchen and bath.

Nils Timm

The result is a soothing palette designed for sleep, rest, and relaxation. The fireplace adds a cozy touch, while the room's connection to the outdoors creates a harmonious vibe.

Nils Timm

The rustic and moody dining room is the perfect counterbalance to the sunny outdoors of the Hollywood Hills home. I’m in love with the cozy intimacy of a round dining table, which draws everyone together vs. apart at the center.

Nils Timm

This deep red-hued bedroom hints to the home's Spanish influence while still feeling fresh and contemporary.

Nils Timm

House of Rolison's best bathroom renovation advice?

"Don’t be afraid to get a little weird! Have fun with it. We always say “cool or too weird?” Which is really an homage to how we look at them," says Taylor.

Amanda adds: "To us, a bathroom is like a pop of color or texture to a bedroom. It’s like the jewelry of the space. Use paint, wall texture, paneling, Roman clay, wainscoting et cetera to give the walls some movement. Pick stones that you like for no other reason than because you like them. You may have to trial and error complimenting colors, but it’ll come together. Bathrooms are an easy place to get creative and take risks."

Nils Timm

Each bedroom does feel like a reflection of the bathrooms, telling its own story but feeling cohesive to the space. I love this pop of reddish-brown in a sphere pillow paired with the striped bolster in an otherwise neutral space.

Nils Timm

The era of all-white homes is clearly fading. Drenching walls in rich color while balancing them with lighter tones creates a look that feels warm and welcoming rather than stark and cold.

Nils Timm

Thoughtful details, expressed by collaborator Olive Ateliers, like a three-light floor lamp in the reading nook, vintage artwork, and stone pots add character and charm to create an inviting guest room.

Nils Timm

The bar area in its own intimate nook complements the kitchen with the same bold marble and similar chain pendant.

Nils Timm

I spy a pop of blue tile near the pool in the backyard too!

Nils Timm

The dramatic entryway arch sets the stage for the style and character of the home's stunning interior. Thanks Amanda and Taylor for sharing this beautiful space, and congratulations!

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Aging is inevitable, and with it comes all the signs of aging within our skin. A loss of elasticity can result in more fine lines and wrinkles, a longer time spent outside can result in dark-looking sun spots, and a natural decrease in oil production can result in pesky, pesky dryness. Luckily, there’s a serum for that!

These are the best serums for women in their 30s and 40s to combat signs of aging and foster glowy, youthful skin.

Amazon

Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum

If dark spots and uneven skin tone have crept into your skin over the years, this serum tackles it all. It's formulated with a vitamin C alternative called viniferine that's 62 times more effective than vitamin C. Plus, it delivers a lot of moisture using olive squalene.

Promising review: "I have used this product before and I love it. It's a little costly, but it works great in eliminating dark spots, if you use it every day. I'm not a person that's big on smells, but this product has a nice light scent. It works great under makeup. I'm on my third bottle and highly recommend it."

Sephora

Dieux Deliverance Antioxidant & Niacinamide Serum

Dieux's Deliverance serum packs a punch against discoloration using antioxidants, peptides, and 4% niacinamide. It goes on super lightweight and soaks in even faster, which is ideal for layering under other skincare goodies like moisturizer and SPF.

Promising review: "Loving this serum so much! It has a very lightweight and milky texture, that melts into the skin effortlessly. I’ve been using the serum for a few weeks and I can notice my fine lines look smoother and my skin overall looks firmer and more even toned! It also doesn’t clog the pores which I love! It has been my go to nighttime serum, the results are just so good!"

Amazon

Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum

This youth-boosting serum is loaded with a fast-acting retinoid, a time-release retinol, and a retinol booster to really target fine lines. Not only will your skin look (and appear!) firmer, its tone will even out and be more hydrated with consistent use.

Promising review: "I have been using Murad products for several years. Some of their products are a little pricey but they work for me! Retinol I use every other night and it does not break me out or dry my face. I am in my mid 60's! Can tell a difference much smoother and lines not nearly as noticeable!"

Fig.1

Fig.1 Retinol Night Cream Level 1

Fig.1's commitment to clinically proven skincare is evident in this retinol-boosted serum. It's perfect for treating and improving fine lines and wrinkles and dark spots, plus it's helpful for clearing up acne-prone skin. The 0.15% encapsulated retinol is designed to release slowly, so you can apply it regularly without feeling irritated.

Promising review: "I have sensitive, dry and cystic-acne prone skin. It sounds like exaggerating to say that this product was the most impactful in calming my cystic acne, but this is the only product that resulted in a 80-85% reduction in cystic acne. I started using it once per week for about a month, then every other day for a month, then 5-6 days a week with one or two rest days with only minimal dryness (i increased moisturizing barriers underneath every other day and this quickly resolved). I have also seen overall improved skin texture and fading of acne scarring. Definitely recommend!"

Amazon

L'Oreal Paris Revitalift 0.3% Pure Retinol Night Serum

This nighttime serum includes 0.3% pure retinol, the "optimal concentration" for results. It calms the skin, too, using hyaluronic acid and glycerin to hydrate. SPF is a must with any retinol product, so make sure to slather it on! This product in particular also comes with a small sample size so you can patch-test it for any irritation before applying it.

Promising review: "I have been trialing for a year now the best quality skin items for wrinkles, fine line and skin care. This is an absolute must! It helps decrease fine lines and dry skin. I have spent hundreds of dollars reviewing and buying skin care products over the year to find the right items for a daily skin care routine!"

Amazon

Vichy LiftActiv Vitamin C Serum

Vitamin C is a powerhouse in combatting dullness and dark spots, and this serum is simply loaded with it. The formula is light and thin, so you only need to use a little bit at a time to cover your entire face. It also boasts hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to simultaneously smooth and hydrate the skin!

Promising review: "I love this product! I have used other Vit C serums and this one spreads more easily and does not irritate my face. I like the applicator because not too much comes out at one time so you don't waste any of it. I put about 4 drops in my hands and spread it out on my face. The only thing to be careful about is not to get it close to your eyes because it will burn. Otherwise, it has lightened and evened out my 67 year old skin. Will buy again."

Amazon

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum

Hyaluronic acid should be your go-to if dryness is your main skincare concern. This formula is created with several different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid to deeply penetrate the skin as well as leave a nice, dewy layer on top of it. Use it in conjunction with a good moisturizer, and you'll notice that your skin will be loads more hydrated!

Promising review: "Just purchased another 2 pack of the serum. I have been on a mission to find the best affordable skincare for many years, and so far this is the first hyaluronic serum I've been overjoyed with and purchased again. It does not take a whole lot to get a good coverage and my face ends up feeling soft and smooth all day after applying. Other ones I've tried would not moisturize that well for that long and I felt like I had to use a lot of product to get anywhere near the results I wanted."

Drunk Elephant

Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum

This gentle exfoliating serum includes both AHAs and BHAs, which help improve the look of pores, blemishes, and fine lines. With aging skin, it's important to opt for chemical exfoliants like this rather than skin-damaging methods of physical exfoliation which can further perpetuate uneven tone and texture and fine lines.

Promising review: "This serum is a staple in my routine. It brightens my skin tone and smooths out any texture issues I might have. It's never irritating. It goes on a bit sticky if applied alone, but give it a minute to sink in and dry and the sticky texture goes away. Great staple acid serum."

Ulta

Pacifica Vegan Collagen Complex Face Serum with Hyaluronic Acid

Since we produce less natural collagen as we age, it can be uber-important to supplement the skin with it in order to boost its overall hydration and retention capabilities. This 100% vegan formula also packs in hyaluronic acid, floral extracts, and Japanese camellia oil to further hydrate and soothe your complexion.

Promising review: "I've been using this serum for a while now and iI can really tell a difference when I sit using it for a bit. I try to stay on top of ordering it so I don't run out! It's so lightweight and absorbs well. I love how firm and even toned my skin looks because of it. I get compliments on my complexion and I know it's because of this serum."

Mutha

Mutha Hyaluronic Serum

This "skin barrier-loving" serum may be notably lightweight and oil-free, but it delivers intense results in terms of hydration. It includes 4 different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid to ensure your skin is hydrated, inside and out. It also features anti-inflammatory aloe vera and botanical extracts and ferments that protect the skin's natural barrier.

Promising review: "I am in my mid-40s and want to do what I can to prevent the signs of aging, so I've been looking for a good Hyaluronic serum. This one by Mutha is exactly what I needed! It is gentle and soothing, absorbs easily with no greasiness, is unscented and not at all irritating to my skin. It works well under makeup and with the rest of my skincare routine. A little goes a long way so one bottle will last a long time. I just wish I had this sooner!"

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

It's official: Blue Ivy looks totally grown up now — especially in her gorgeous gold gown at the Mufasa: The Lion Kingpremiere. It honestly feels like just yesterday that Beyoncé announced she was born, and now she's a star in her own right! She celebrated her Disney film debut with her family by her side on the red carpet (and everyone looking as gorgeous as ever).

While Jay-Z was one of the latest celebrities caught in the crosshairs of P. Diddy allegations, it didn't stop mom and dad from showing their unwavering support. The family put on a united front, smiling for the cameras and praising Blue's work on her latest Disney film, further proving that they're in this together. Here's everything we know!

Details about the Mufasa: The Lion King premiere

Beyoncé & Jay-Z Amazing Support Of Blue Ivy's Role In 'Mufasa'

Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney

Blue Ivy stars in Mufasa: The Lion King as Kiara with Beyoncé voicing Nala again. The highly anticipated film will show Mufasa's origins from a young cub to the majestic king we've come to know, love, and mourn.

In this cute BTS clip, Beyoncé and Blue are initially shown in separate recording booths while the latter says, "Don't stare at me." It's a typical response all kids eventually give their parents, but it doesn't bother Beyoncé. She simply smiles and says, "I can't help it. You're just too beautiful girl." Still, she offers a bit of reassurance to Blue. "I'mma be right here closing my eyes."

Blue briefly talked about what it feels like to work on a movie by saying, "If I like told my younger self that I was in a movie, I'd like never believe myself."

The star couldn't help but tear up as she continued to watch Blue and said, "Give me a second. I'm still...just can't believe that's my baby." While sitting side by Blue, Beyoncé eventually turns to look at her to let her know she's "so proud of her." Even Rumi, Beyoncé and Jay-Z's youngest daughter, makes a quick appearance!

The Mufasa: The Lion King premiere occurred December 9 with Beyoncé, Jay-Z, and grandma Tina Knowles standing by Blue Ivy's side. They looked stunning on the red carpet as they wore coordinating outfits. Although the ladies seemed to be present and excited, Jay-Z temporarily looked distracted while all of them were standing together (via PEOPLE).

If we had to guess, it may have something to do with the recent allegations connecting he and P. Diddy weighing on his mind. After the accusation went public, Jay-Z penned his own public statement and shared it to Roc Nations' social channels. The most heartbreaking aspect of it is realizing his children will be able to see everything.

"My wife and I will have to sit our children down, one of whom is at the age where her friends will surely see the press and ask questions about the nature of these claims, and explain the cruelty and greed of people," he wrote (via X). Only time will tell how everything pans out, but we hope this doesn't overshadow Blue Ivy's success, nor do we want to see people vilify her or her siblings for alleged misdeeds of Jay-Z.

At the end of the day, we're so proud of Blue for letting her light shine bright despite everything else!

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