Kate Winslet's Tired Of Everyone Calling Her "Brave" For Her "Normal Body"

Kayla Walden
Oct 01, 2024
kate winslet

Kate Winslet has been a favorite actress of mine since I first saw her hit the screen in Titanic, and my love for her has only grown over time. Whether she's acting adorably alongside Jack Black in The Holiday, or abominably in HBO's The Regime, Kate's performances — and overall persona — gets better and better with age. And she agrees!

In a new Vogue Australia article, she highlights what it's like turning 50 in today's society and how it "isn't brave" to have a normal body. Keep reading to see all that she had to say in this vulnerable interview!

Jason Merritt/Getty Images

While on a promotional tour for her new film Lee — a movie based on the incredible true story of Lee Miller, a Vogue cover-girl turned World War II correspondent in Nazi Germany — Kate Winsletopened up to Vogue Australia. In the interview, she discussed playing a role like Lee, noting of her character, "There is something enviable about her sense of self. Yes, Lee was complicated, difficult, not entirely lovable yet admirable beyond measure. And by far the most inspiring person I’ve ever played. By far."

Michael Loccisano/Getty Images

The interviewer went on to ask Kate how she felt about her impending 50th birthday quickly approaching. Kate shared that she hadn't thought about the milestone birthday. She said, "I mean with both of my hands on my heart, career-wise, I haven’t even thought about it. Because I’m attached to some incredibly interesting things that carry me through this next chapter, this wonderful flurry of great roles for a woman at this particular age.”

She continued by explaining that she thinks getting older is "thrilling.“ She said, "I’m becoming more comfortable in myself every year. I’m more open as a person."

Kate was quick to explain that it's not because she doesn't care about things, but rather that she feels "a sense of safety" with where she is in life. She elaborated, "I’m very happy with my physical self, how my face is. As we get older, we become more womanly, more juicy, more interesting. We have more stories to tell."

Dominik Bindl/Getty Images for BAFTA

And while aging is something she's actually excited about, Kate quickly noted that men and women certainly aren't equal right now. She said that a couple days prior to the interview she heard a man say on the radio that he was "OMADing" — AKA only having "one meal a day."

Kate explained,, "If I said that, I would be on the front pages, accused of being irresponsible. And it would be irresponsible to say something like that. But men can say whatever they want, do whatever they want."

This just goes to show the utter and absolute scrutiny that women receive in the press in comparison to men. Women are repeatedly getting picked apart for their statements, performances, and slight reactions, while it's clear that men can get away with quite a lot more.

John Phillips/Getty Images For L'Oréal Paris

Speaking of tough standards on women, Kate went on to talk about the "normality" of her body as being un-revolutionary. In today's society — and especially in Hollywood — people deem actresses with bodies that aren't traditionally thin as "brave," especially if they defend their physique.

Kate talked about this phenomenon, explaining, “All I’ve ever done is be a woman with an opinion. Curves? Just call it a normal body that isn’t honed and toned within an inch of its life. Not wearing make-up on screen? That’s not brave. I’m not in Ukraine. I am an actor." She continued, "I love my job. I’m bloody lucky to do it. I’m not on the frontline. But let’s come up with some other words like ‘relief’ at seeing normal women feeling joyful on screen."

In a world where celebrities are so often praised as god-like for doing normal things, this is quite refreshing to hear coming from an A-list actor. And it also normalizes different body types way more than calling someone "brave" for having curves.

IMDB

Kate ended the interview, noting what she hopes people learn from Lee Miller. She said, "Not to waste so much time as women not liking ourselves. Not to waste time thinking that we’re doing something wrong, that we should change, be more like that person over there. Lee was…Lee.”

We can't think of better advice for women in today's society! Embrace who you are, and truly love yourself as you are!

You can catch Lee in theaters now!

Subscribe to our newsletter for more entertainment updates!

The Libby Awards Just Announced Their Winners — & Tons Of Our Fave Books Made The Cut

2024 saw the rise of celebrity book clubs and BookTok favorites, but we were waiting for the Libby Awards to announce their top picks this year. Finally, our wait is over because they announced their winners! According to PEOPLE, a record-breaking number of librarians sifted through 2024's most-anticipated books and we're delighted to see some of our favorite reads made the cut.

Whether you see reading as a hobby, a way to escape or a form of resistance, having organizations and librarians who encourage it is truly golden.

Scroll to see which of our favorite books made the Libby Awards list and the top runner-ups from adult fiction to romantasy!

Best Adult Fiction Book

Amazon

The Women by Kristin Hannah

Kristin Hannah's The Women deserves the acknowledgement it continues to get because it such a well-written novel. It introduces readers to Frances "Frankie" McGrath, a nursing student, who believes she and other women have something special to contribute to the Vietnam War. Enlisting in the Army Nurse Corps allows her to follow her brother and show how much she's serious about her desire to do more. But, she doesn't expect to be surrounded by so much mayhem upon her arrival and return back to the home she left behind.

Amazon

James by Percival Everett (Runner-Up)

Huckleberry Finn's story has always been readily available, but the runaway slave who accompanied him during his journey was overshadowed. Seeking to change that, Percival Everett wrote James as a way to give Jim a purpose-filled voice.
Prior to forming a friendship with the "wild child," Jim's worst fears come true when he learns his master wants to take him away from his family. Unwilling to let that happen, he escapes to Jackson Island where he crosses paths with Huck Finn. Both are aware they're running from volatile situations which leads them to make a perilous journey to find a taste of freedom.

Best Adult Nonfiction Book 

Amazon

The Demon of Unrest by Erik Larson

Erik Larson's The Demon of Unrest takes readers back in time to understand how fraught Abraham Lincoln's election and the Southern Confederates' relationship was. It was clear far right thinking was seeking to dismantle any idea of democracy for all and it seemed that nothing would change until the fateful events that took place at Fort Sumter.
From Major Robert Anderson to William Seward, readers will relive a time period where many lives were lost as the quest for power created bloodshed.

Amazon

By the Fire We Carry by Rebecca Nagle (Runner-Up)

By the Fire We Carry also revisits a time in history where injustice prevailed, but this time the focus is on American Indians. Beginning in the 1830s, the Muscogee people were forcibly removed from their land to unknown territories. Though they believed they would receive retribution, it became evident it wouldn't happen when Oklahoma took over their home. And when treacherous murder happens, the new state refused to step in for years.
It wasn't until 2020 that the Supreme Court reached an overdue decision that didn't seek the best interests of the American Indians, proving injustice is embedded in American history.

Best Young Adult Fiction Book 

Amazon

Heir by Sabaa Tahir

AIZ knows life isn't fair as she's grown up poor in Kegari, but it hasn't stopped her for wanting revenge for something she's never forgotten. Her rage puts her in an even more dangerous situation and it threatens to overtake her. Then there's SIRSHA, a tracker with magic in her veins. She hasn't had a stroke of luck in a while which makes her accept a job of punishing a child murderer. Lastly, there's the reluctant prince QUIL. He's seen the effects being in control has on others and doesn't want to meet that same fate, but is forced to make a decision when the Empire is threatened. Each will have to make decisions that play a role in their final fates and it's impossible to know who will survive.

Amazon

Twenty-Four Seconds from Now... by Jason Reynolds (Runner-Up)

Aria met Neon two years ago because her dog decided to have its version of fun by chasing the latter. It was a fateful meeting that put them on a path of love and everyone knows it. Talks about intimacy have led to more conversations about having sex for the first time, but readers will see how complicated it is for the teens.

However, Aria and Neon make a plan to do the one deed they can't stop thinking about. But guess where Neon is?

Hiding in a bathroom because his nerves are all over the place!

Best Debut Author 

Amazon

The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley

When a civil servant receives a job she's been dreaming about, she's overjoyed and gladly accepts its conditions. She and others will help "expats" adjust to living in the present after their time travel journeys. That's how she meets Commander Graham Gore ("1847"). The last thing he knew was that he lived during the 1840s so he experiences shock that things are so different from what he remembers.
Nevertheless, he and the civil servant begin to respect each other in a way that leads to the one forbidden rule for their situation: they're never meant to fall in love.

Amazon

I Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie Sue (Runner-Up)

Jolene finds herself in hot water with HR when her snarky emails about co-workers are discovered. In order to keep her job, she has to complete training with Cliff and even has to follow email protocols to make sure she doesn't repeat her mistakes. But then she becomes aware of other employees' emails and realizes she's not the only one who's been writing things that can be seen as red flags. It's how she finds out a company-wide layoff will be happening soon.

Torn between wanting to protect herself and see the humanity of those she works with, Jolene will have to decide how vulnerable she wants to be in both situations.

Best Book Club Pick

Amazon

Margo's Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe

Margo Millet was born into a precarious situation given the fact her dad used to wrestle professionally while her mom waited tabled at Hooters. Despite her lack of examples, the young adult starts taking classes at a junior college while wondering how she's going to make ends meet. Somehow, she has an affair with a married professor that leads to a very unplanned pregnancy that everyone thinks she should terminate. But something awakens in Margo and she ignores everyone's "advice."
In order to take care of herself and her young child, she starts an OnlyFans account that garners more attention than she thought it would. Suddenly able to afford her bills, Margo leans into her new "job," until someone close to her does the unthinkable.

Amazon

Real Americans by Rachel Khong (Runner-Up)

Rachel Khong's Real Americans decodes what happens when a young woman named Lily Chen meets a wealthy man named Matthew. Though it's clear they were in love, readers eventually discover the two are no longer together when they see her raising her teenaged son alone. Refusing to explain what happened to his father, Lily places her son in a tough spot where he resolves to uncover his heritage without her.
Along the way, the past, present, and future converge in a way that makes readers ponder about classism and more.

Best Fantasy Book

Amazon

The Spellshopby Sarah Beth Durst

Kiela has a people problem, but she bypasses it for the most part as she dutifully takes care of the Great Library of Alyssium with Caz the magical spider plant. However, their perfect paradise comes crashing down when someone destroys where they work, forcing them to evacuate to a place Kiela grew up. Once there, Kiela's visited by her meddling and attractive neighbor who takes a liking to her. Still, she has to do something to bring money in which is how she begins growing berries to create delicious jam.

Her only obstacle is that she's using magic illegally to making a living, leading to a spellshop that will change the island she's on forever.

Amazon

The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo (Runner-Up)

Luzia Cotado spends her days doing back-breaking work as a scullion and would've perished had it not been for the small amount of magic she uses to get by. Things take a wrong turn when her powers are discovered and she's forced to use more to help the family she works for. Hot on her heels is Antonio Pérez, a secretary to Spain's king who needs as much good luck as he can find. By discovering Luzia, he feels he'll be able to rework his way into the good graces of the man he serves.
The only way she'll be able to evade him is by becoming acquainted with others with magical powers and relying on the immortal familiar Guillén Santángel.

Best Horror Book

Amazon

Bury Your Gays by Chuck Tingle

Misha's big moment in Hollywood has finally come in the form of a worthy Oscar nod. The only thing standing in his way are the executives who want him to stop pushing the "gay narrative" on his TV series. Though he admirably rebels against their demands, he soon finds himself and loved ones being haunted.

Amazon

I Was A Teenage Slasher by Stephen Graham Jones (Runner-Up)

A young teen's life takes on a drastic path when he's forced to become a killer. Tolly Driver has always stayed out of trouble, but tragedy pushes him to do something that's out of character while living in Lamesa, Texas. Instead of being written off as another psychotic murderer, Stephen Graham Jones wrote I was A Teenage Slasher from Tolly's POV.

Best Romance Book Of The Year

Amazon

Funny Story by Emily Henry

We all know and love Emily Henry's work, but Funny Story still remains one of the best novels she's written. She allows readers to get to know Daphne's tragically hilariously plight as she realizes her fiancé's been in love with his best friend Petra the entire time they've been together. It blindsides her in more ways than one and leaves her wondering how she's going to afford rent.
As luck would have it, Petra's ex Miles Nowak is in need of a roommate too so he and Daphne decide to share a space. Most days they ignore each other until one conversation leads to a friendship and the perfect idea: pretend to date each other to rub it in their exes faces!
There's no way Daphne or Miles could fall in love with each other for real, right?

Amazon

The Truth According to Ember by Danica Nava (Runner-Up)

Ember Lee Cardinal is in a tight spot because she's yet to secure a job despite the many times she's submitted her resumé with applications. Deciding to experiment, she embellishes a few things and stops checking the Native American box. This method works, leading her to secure a role as an accountant.

She does well and even begins dating IT guy Danuwoa Colson despite their job's strict policies. No one suspects a thing until someone sees them during a company trip and threatens to make everyone aware they're together. Now Ember's in a odd situation where he dream job has become a nightmare and she beings telling small lies in order to save her neck because telling the truth has consequences she doesn't want to deal with.

Best Romantasy Book

Amazon

House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas

Bryce Quinlan's been out of Midgard for sometime and is looking for ways to get back to what feels familiar. She never intended to go far away, but it's not so easy to get back to where she was. Plus, she has to watch her back because she doesn't know who's friendly or not.

Hunt Athalar's fate is no better because he's back in Asteri's dungeons and doesn't know where Bryce could be. Though he's helped her in the past, he's unable to intervene this time because he's trapped and doesn't see a way out.

Amazon

Faebound by Saara El-Arifi (Runner-Up)

Yeeran's life has been consumed by battle and she knows that's probably where she'll die. She fiercely serves in the elven army while her sister Lettle spends her days as a diviner. But when Yeeran's kicked out of the Elven Lands, she and sister are forced to face the unknown of the fae court. Having been hidden in plain sight, it begins to pull them in opposite directions from which they may never recover from.

Amazon

Be sure to see the full list of The Libby Awards winners here!

Subscribe to our newsletter for more book finds!

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

Subscribe to our newsletter for more book finds!

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

entertainment

The 10 Best Finds From The Whole Foods Hot Bar For An On-The-Go Meal

The Whole Foods hot bar is a buffet of delicious possibilities. It’s truly packed with fresh, flavorful dishes that make grabbing a quick meal feel like a total treat! From perfectly-seasoned roasted veggies to indulgent comfort foods like meatloaf and cornbread, you’re never missing out on good eats when you stop by the Whole Foods hot bar. If you’re wondering which options are worth piling onto your plate, these 10 picks are the best of the best!

Scroll on to discover the 10 best finds at the Whole Foods hot bar for a tasty on-the-go meal!

Kaboompics / PEXELS

1. Rotisserie Chicken

Whole Foods’ rotisserie chicken is a staple you simply need to try. It’s juicy, flavorful, and perfectly-seasoned every single time! Some Whole Foods locations even give you a choice between lemon herb or garlic variations that add delicious depth of flavor. Plus, rotisserie chicken is always versatile – you can eat it on its own, shred it into salads, or pair it with any of the hot bar sides for a balanced, high-protein meal.

Foodie Factor / PEXELS

2. Tomato Basil Soup

Tomato Basil Soup is superior when it comes to comfort food, and Whole Foods’ recipe is no exception! It never fails to be rich, velvety, and packed with the perfect balance of sweetness from the tomatoes and freshness from the basil. It’s a fan-favorite because it pairs beautifully with everything from grilled cheese to pasta.

Public Domain Pictures / PEXELS

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

These aren’t the bland, mushy veggies you avoided as a kid. Whole Foods roasts their Brussels sprouts to crispy perfection, oftentimes serving them up with garlic, a balsamic glaze, or some Parmesan cheese! If you’re looking for nutritious, yet flavorful options from the Whole Foods hot bar, you’ve just gotta scoop up some of these sprouts and witness the magic for yourself.

FOX / PEXELS

4. Grilled Salmon

Whole Foods’ grilled salmon is a standout item on the hot bar because of its buttery texture and slightly-smoky char. It pairs exceptionally well with the aforementioned Brussels sprouts or even a grain-based side like quinoa!

Angela Khebou / PEXELS

5. Mac & Cheese

Whole Foods fans go nuts for their Mac & Cheese. It’s nothing but rich, creamy, and of course, loaded with cheese. It’s ooey and gooey, but typically, the top layer boasts a slight crispiness from baking. Yum. It makes the ultimate comfort food for picky kids and hungry adults alike!

Whole Foods

6. Classic Meatloaf

Don't knock meatloaf – especially Whole Foods’ meatloaf from the hot bar. This home-style dish is made with high-quality beef, flavorful seasonings, and a tangy tomato glaze that keeps you going back for more. And more! Shoppers love it so much because it brings back that nostalgia for a hearty, homemade dinner.

Whole Foods

7. Chicken Tikka Masala

This ready-to-eat Tikka Masala is so delicious. The chicken is always tender and absorbs the spicy sauce beautifully, making it a perfect dish when served over basmati rice. It’s a great way to enjoy Indian flavors without having to visit a restaurant (and pay restaurant prices).

Nadja M / PEXELS

8. Fried Rice

Whole Foods’ fried rice can’t be beat. Often made with fresh vegetables, scrambled eggs, and a touch of soy sauce for umami depth, it's a great side to scoop up for lunch or dinner.

Nano Erdozain / PEXELS

9. Baked Ziti

This comforting mix of al dente pasta, rich tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella, and ricotta for extra creaminess is one of the best items on Whole Foods’ hot bar. Cheese lovers, make way!

Valeria Boltneva / PEXELS

10. Nashville Hot Chicken

For those who can’t resist a little heat, the Nashville hot chicken at Whole Foods delivers a perfect balance of spice and crunch. Each bite is also slightly-sweet, so you’re going to get a balanced meal every time you stop by.

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more amazing grocery finds!

whole foodsgrocery shoppingfood

11 Romance TV Shows You Can Stream On Netflix Right Now

The internet agrees that rom-coms are back (hello Materialists!), but the only thing I enjoy more than watching a romantic movie? Binging a romance TV show. So I rounded up 11 of the best series you can watch on Netflix this weekend (and rewatch before all episodes of Ransom Canyon drop on the streamer!)

Here are the 11 best romance TV shows to stream on Netflix right now.

1. Nobody Wants This

Saeed Adyani/Netflix

Joanne's an agnostic sex podcaster, Noah's a rabbi. Falling for each other doesn't sound too complicated, right? (Wrong). This show is heartfelt, hilarious, and all around sweet. Meet the season 2 cast!

Nobody Wants This stars Kristen Bell, Adam Brody, Justine Lupe, Timothy Simons, Stephanie Faracy, Tovah Feldshuh, Paul Ben-Victor, Michael Hitchcock, Jackie Tohn, Sherry Cola, Shiloh Bearman, Emily Arlook, Leighton Meester, Miles Fowler, Alex Karpovsky, and Arian Moayed.

2. My Life With The Walter Boys

Netflix

After a tragedy changes Jackie's life forever, the city girl moves in with her mom's best friend — and her seven sons. Welcomed into the family, Jackie finds herself particularly pulled between Alex and Cole. Check out the latest season 2 news on this romance TV show.

My Life With the Walter Boys stars Nikki Rodriguez, Noah LaLonde, Ashby Gentry, Marc Blucas, Johnny Link, Corey Fogelmanis, Connor Stanhope, Dean Petriw, Alix West Lefler, Lennix James, Sarah Rafferty, Natalie Sharp, Carson MacCormac, Janet Kidder, Riele Downs, and Jake Manley.

3. Never Have I Ever

Netflix

This coming-of-age comedy from Mindy Kaling covers all the embarrassing parts of first love (and growing up in general, TBH) and Devi navigates love, life, and loss. Actress Maitreyi Ramakrishnan spills on all the behind the scenes secrets in our exclusive interview!

Never Have I Ever stars Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Poorna Jagannathan, Richa Moorjani, Jaren Lewison, Darren Barnet, Ramona Young, Lee Rodriguez, and John McEnroe.

4. Love is Blind

Netflix

Take a step into reality TV with this groundbreaking romance show. Finding love without ever seeing the other person's face? That's one dating strategy I haven't tried yet.

Love is Blind is hosted by Vanessa & Nick Lachey.

5. Running Point

Netflix

For any Netflix viewers who need more than just romance to get through a show, check out Kate Hudson's Running Point! The series follows Isla, who takes over her brother's role as President of the Los Angeles Waves basketball team. And she's proving you really can work and play.

Running Point stars Kate Hudson, Brenda Song, Drew Tarver, Scott MacArthur, Fabrizio Guido, Toby Sandeman, Chet Hanks, Max Greenfield, Keyla Monterroso Mejia, Roberto Sanchez, Uche Agada, and Dane DiLiegro.

6. Geek Girl

Netflix

Harriet has never fit in. But that works in her favor when she gets scouted by a London model agent. This romance TV show also has plenty of fashion, and conversations around bullying. Sounds good to me.

Geek Girl stars Emily Carey,Emmanuel Imani, Sarah Parish, Liam Woodrum, Tim Downie, Zac Looker, Jemima Rooper, Sandra Yi Sencindiver, Daisy Jelley, and Rochelle Harrington.

7. Bridgerton

StillMoving.Net for Netflix

All's fair in love and writing...and least according to Lady Whistledown. Bridgerton season 4 is coming soon, and until we get new episodes, the marriage of convenience, enemies-to-lovers, and friends-to-lovers plotlines will have to hold us over!

Bridgerton stars Yerin Ha, Luke Thompson, Luke Newton, Nicola Coughlan, Jonathan Bailey, Simone Ashley, Claudia Jessie, Hannah Dodd, Will Tilston, Florence Hunt, Harriet Cains, Nicola Coughlan, Jessica Madsen, Bessie Carter, and Masali Baduza.

8. XO, Kitty

Netflix

Kitty's taking a lesson from Lara Jean in this To All The Boys I've Loved Before spinoff. But this time, our favorite low-key matchmaker is traveling to Seoul — and learning just how complicated love really is.

XO, Kitty stars Anna Cathcart, Audrey Huynh, Sasha Bhasin, Joshua Lee, Minyeong Choi, Gia Kim, Sang Heon Lee, Anthony Keyvan, Peter Thurnwald, Regan Aliyah, and Noah Centineo.

9. Emily in Paris

Stéphanie Branchu/Netflix

Emily also moves across the world when she becomes the American face at a French marketing firm. With incredible fashion, a plucky American attitude, and an inability to speak French, Em definitely makes an impression on everyone she meets — including a couple handsome strangers.

Emily in Paris stars Lily Collins, Lucas Bravo, Lucien Laviscount, Ashley Park, Camille Razat, Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu, Samuel Arnold, and Bruno Gouery.

10. Virgin River

Petr Maur/Netflix

If you're still in a cozy mood, press play on this romance TV show about a big city doctor who moves to a small town. Virgin River sounds a little bit like Sullivan's Crossing doesn't it?!

Virgin River stars Alexandra Breckenridge, Martin Henderson, Tim Matheson, Annette O’Toole, Colin Lawrence, Benjamin Hollingsworth, Zibby Allen, Sarah Dugdale, Marco Grazzini, Kai Bradbury, Kandyse McClure, and Mark Ghanime.

11. From Scratch

Philippe Antonello/Netflix

Celebrate Zoe Saldaña's recent Oscar win by watching this super emotional Netflix show. (Warning: you're going to ugly cry!!) The story follows Amy and Lino, who fall in love before a devastating diagnosis changes the course of their lives.

Which romance TV show will you be watching this weekend? Let us know on Facebook!

pop culturenetflixentertainment

12 Home Decor Ideas I’m Stealing From This Earthy Santa Barbara Remodel

Treehouse aesthetic is not only a charming decor trend, but it also evokes a sense of nostalgia, whether you grew up with one or simply wished you had. Santa Barbara architect Dylan Henderson and designer Bailee Roberts have reimagined a 1960s hillside home into a stunning modern retreat inspired by the magic of treehouses. Perched among California’s iconic coastal oaks, this home embraces its natural surroundings, offering breathtaking views of the Santa Barbara harbor and the rolling mountains beyond. It’s the kind of place that inspires daydreaming — it's my ultimate someday escape.

Here are 12 home decor ideas I'm stealing from this modern treehouse retreat.

Gavin Cater

1. Exposed Wood Beams

This project was a full gut renovation, designed to blend with the natural landscape while bringing the homeowners' vision to life. The couple, both in their 60s, wanted a home that felt nestled in the oak canopies of the Honda Valley Preserve while making the most of the light and sweeping views.

Gavin Cater

From the moment you step inside, reclaimed beams in the entry foyer set the tone for the entire space. The clients envisioned a retreat that felt both elevated and deeply connected to nature — warm, inviting, and sophisticated.

Erin Feinblatt

2. Floor-to-Ceiling Windows

The team wanted to maximize the ocean and mountain views by increasing the roof height and fenestration on the Southern façade. They also introduced upper west-facing clerestory windows to welcome the warm afternoon light. The result? Sweeping ocean vistas that take center stage, while natural light floods in throughout the day.

Erin Feinblatt

3. Bi-Fold Doors

The design team rebuilt the existing 1960s home to feel like a "treehouse in the sky." The bi-fold doors opening onto the deck blur the line between indoors and out, extending the living space and creating a seamless indoor-outdoor flow.

Gavin Cater

The windows from the living room and kitchen frame breathtaking 180-degree views overlooking the Santa Barbara Harbor and the Honda Valley Nature Preserve, making the transition between inside and nature feel almost invisible.

Gavin Cater

4. Cozy Yet Refined Furniture

The result is a warm, multi-layered sanctuary — an elevated treehouse retreat that blends with its natural surroundings while revealing a refined yet cozy charm. The open living floor plan features high ceilings, expansive glass, and a plaster fireplace too. "The furniture is a thoughtfully curated mix of heirloom vintage, design classics, and modern pieces, creating a cultivated aesthetic," says Bailee. She notes that the furniture includes selections from Cisco Home, The Citizenry, and boutique sources.

Gavin Cater

5. Shelfie Perfection

Balancing tradition and modernity, Bailee combined the couple’s beloved antiques and heirloom pieces with contemporary furnishings and carefully curated fixtures. This shelfie is a thoughtfully layered mix of books, pottery, antiques, and personal treasures — designed to be both visually striking and inherently soothing.

Gavin Cater

6. Fluted Island

Fluted kitchen islands are a hot trend right now and I love the architectural detail and modern aesthetic of the vertical battens of white oak on the island, complementing the white oak cabinetry and marble countertops.

Gavin Cater

Adding a gentle curve at the end of the kitchen island enhances both form and function — creating a more visually dynamic focal point while also maximizing space and flow.

Erin Feinblatt

7. Layered Lighting

"The lighting is a mix of designer and mainstream pieces, from the gorgeous Ravinhill fixture over the island to the Visual Comfort sconces in the living room and Rejuvenation in the guest bathroom," says Bailee. By combining different sources, layered lighting enhances the mood and versatility of a space, making any room feel more inviting and well-designed. Sconces here add warmth while the pendant chandelier above creates a statement while diffusing light beautifully.

Gavin Cater

8. Earthy Palette

Sunlight pours into the home, accentuating the rich woods, organic textures, and an earthy palette that enhances the seamless indoor-outdoor flow.

Erin Feinblatt

9. Statement Artwork

Bedrooms were designed as private sanctuaries surrounded by trees. This vintage goose painting beautifully echoes the room’s palette while adding an almost whimsical energy. The expressive pose of the goose brings a sense of movement and charm, making it both a statement piece and a harmonious accent.

Erin Feinblatt

10. Floating Sink

Floating sinks are a game-changer for smaller bathrooms, creating the illusion of more space while maintaining a sleek, elegant look. Marble is also a hot trend we love for kitchens and baths.

Gavin Cater

11. Entertaining Deck

Outdoor living is essential, and this deck is the perfect extension of the Santa Barbara treehouse — designed for lounging, dining, and entertaining while embracing the beauty of the surroundings.

Gavin Cater

12. Modern Landscaping

Modern landscaping transforms the curb appeal by blending clean lines, native plants, and strategic lighting for a polished yet inviting look. Thoughtfully placed greenery, sculptural hardscaping, and layered textures create depth and dimension, while sustainable elements like drought-tolerant plants elevate the home's exterior.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more home decor ideas!

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

home decor trendshome decor inspirationhome decor ideashome decor

14 "Charming" Cottage-Inspired Kitchens You'll Wanna Bake Cookies In ASAP

Stark white kitchen cabinets have had their day as designers gravitate toward warmer, earthier tones. Embracing this welcome trend are cottage kitchens — the perfect antidote to the cold, ultra-modern spaces of our recent past. With vintage charm, natural textures, and a perfect blend of old and new, this style brings warmth and personality back into the heart of the home. Here’s how to embrace the cozy cottage aesthetic in your kitchen.

Check out 14 cozy cottage-inspired kitchen ideas below!

deVOL Kitchens

This elegant plate rack from deVOL Kitchens, paired with a charming kitchen skirt, enhances this cottage kitchen’s English storybook appeal. Embracing color in your cottage kitchen can be a bold yet breathtaking move too. Try Farrow & Ball Preference Red No.297, Benjamin Moore Classic Burgundy, or Clare Paint Vintage to get the look.

Airy Kitchens

Modern cottage kitchens are great at balancing light and dark, creating spaces that feel both cozy and fresh. In this example from Airy Kitchens, warm wood cabinets ground the space, while a classic checkerboard floor brightens it. William Morris-style wallpaper and a wood-framed window enhance the warm vibes of the row house kitchen.

Shoppe Amber Interiors

This cottage kitchen by Shoppe Amber Interiors had me at the scalloped banquette and red checkered floors. Stunning! Timeless cabinetry, cottage-style windows, and vintage-inspired sconces add to the overall cottage vibe. Here are more banquette ideas if you're into this cozy, inviting look.

Studio McGee

This Utahranch house designed by Studio McGee blends rich blue cabinetry, warm wood accents, and a sleek steel range hood for a perfect balance of modern and cottage charm. Adding to the character are exposed wood beams — a signature feature of modern cottage kitchens.

Market by Modern Nest

Vintage artwork is a must for bringing that coziness to the kitchen, while brass fixtures, handmade pottery, and rich wood cabinetry enhance the warm, lived-in feel of this kitchen from Market by Modern Nest.

deVOL Kitchen

I'm swooning over the rosewater-colored cabinets and Zellige antique tile in this deVOL Kitchen. It feels fresh and modern yet still very much cozy cottage.

Backsplash.com

Artisanal, handmade tile makes a statement in a cottage kitchen, adding to the earthy, rustic aesthetic.

Magnolia

Joanna Gaines created a cozy breakfast nookby pairing a light gray wood banquette with classic black-and-white checkered floors. The result? A quintessential cottage feel that's full of charm.

Zia Tile

Open shelving styled with your favorite vintage treasures, paired with moody hued cabinetry, make this white cement tile from Zia Tile look perfectly refreshing and refined.

Edward George London

Butcher block countertops, classic Shaker cabinetry (especially in this gorgeous olive-grey hue), and thoughtfully curated accessories — like wooden bowls and copper pots — are all essential elements of cozy, cottage style.

Edward George London

Pairing rustic brick or stone walls with elegant taupe cabinetry is a beautiful way to warm up your all-white kitchen, creating a space that feels both inviting and sophisticated. Try Farrow & Ball’s Joa White, a light and clean taupe, to get the look.

Shoppe Amber Interiors

Warm brown hues are a popular color trend for 2025, making them the perfect choice to bring depth, coziness, and timeless charm to your cottage kitchen. This wooden table is an excellent accent in that vein!

Chris & Julia x Loloi

What I love about this space, featuring a Chris & Julia x Loloi rug, is that there's so much to love: the plate rack and vintage backsplash, the cafe-style floor tile, the striped loveseat with yellow chairs. I adore this cottage look.

deVOL Kitchen

deVOL Kitchen does it again with a charming kitchen that feels sophisticated at the same time. Glass cabinets, marble tile, brass fixtures and a scalloped edge pendant are all markings of a modern cottage kitchen.

Have a passion for home decor? Check out our Home page and Pinterest page for more home decor inspiration!

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

kitchen decorcottagecorehome decor trendshome decor ideashome decor