Kristen Bell Just Did the Sweetest Thing for Her Sister

Having a sister is *absolutely* the best. Not only do you get to share (or steal) clothes, friends, and boys, but you get a lifelong BFF — from birth! Recently, B+C fave femme and sloth enthusiast Kristen Bell surprised her big sis with a classy basement makeover. That’s right, Bell coordinated with Houzz to show her appreciation for sibling Sara by giving her Michigan home a dreamy lower level remodel. Bell organized a total gutting of the cramped space and revamped it to feel spacious and bright. Then she went all out and decorated the upgraded space with chic AF furnishings. Let’s just say this renovation is total #decorgoals and we are in love.

Sara has lived in Detroit for 12 years with her husband, Tom, and their children. Originally, they felt like they had plenty of space in their three-bedroom, one-bath home. But after their fourth babe was born, space began feeling tighter, and according to Bell they are now “busting out of the windows of this house.”

So why the basement? Bell felt the downstairs space could be used more efficiently and wanted to help her hardworking sis out. “Sara hasn’t had the time to reimagine it for the kids,” Bell says. “I wanted to figure out a way to maximize the house and make the basement someplace they would all gravitate towards.”

The renovation is part of a video series called My Houzz that documents celebrities surprising their family members with partial or full home makeovers. Because she lives across the country in Los Angeles, Bell hired local Detroit design pro, Melissa Kennedy of Meadowlark Design+Build, to make the big decisions. “I knew she was the one I wanted to trust with this project,” Bell says. Kennedy is responsible for the “simplified traditional” design of the basement renovation. Aesthetically this translates as “warm colors, warm textures, nothing too cool, comfortable furniture, nothing too frou frou or overly ornate,” Kennedy says. Once the facelift was complete, Bell bought most of the furnishings from the Houzz Shop to round out the look. Since the basement lacks natural light, Kennedy chose to replace fluorescent bulbs by swapping in 3,000 Kelvin temperature ones. “We didn’t want to go too warm. We went a little bit cooler to simulate natural light,” she says.

Long story short, Bell’s home improvement project was v. successful. Her sister’s basement went from cluttered and dim to chic and vibrant. Sara was thrilled with the renovation. “There isn’t one thing I would change,” says Sara. “Nothing.” Watch the full reveal below:

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(Photos and video via Houzz)

For those of us who are passionate about design and decorating, of course, we want our homes to look stylish and put-together, but sometimes life gets in the way and our homes start to look a little neglected. I bought my home four years ago and I'm starting to notice smudges on the walls (lots of 'em), furniture that could use an upgrade, clutter where I never intended, and a lack of cohesion from room to room. This is all to say, no shame if you're guilty of making a few home decor mistakes – we've all been there! But if you're looking to make a few upgrades, here's where you can start, without spending a ton of money. Lighting, maintenance, and just clearing up clutter can make a huge difference in how your home looks, from rags to riches.;)

Home Decor Mistakes Making Your Space Look Cheap

Dated Lighting

Photo by Lina Kivaka

Instead: Look For Sculptural Lighting

Let's start from the top. Sometimes a simple upgrade like new lighting can make such an impact in the room, instantly giving it a more upscale look. Statement lighting in sculptural shapes are on trend and timeless. Think in levels too -- from ceiling to table lamps to create ambience. Too harsh or too dim can make a room feel uninviting and drab too so pay attention to lighting in a room before you completely overhaul it.

Cramped, Cluttered Spaces

Photo by Rachel Claire

Instead: Be Selective With Furniture And Decor

Less is more when it comes to looking elegant, and frankly, not cheap. Remove anything that doesn't feel right in a space (you may find a better spot for it later) and start with the bare minimum. Now start to fill it with furniture and decor that fits the space well and looks like they pair well. Overfilled rooms can make them look cramped and chaotic, and too much decor or mess can create visual clutter, which is not inviting.

Mismatched Styles

Photo by Element5 Digital

Instead: Create A Point Of View

As a home decor enthusiast, I love almost all of it: art deco, modern, vintage, all the trends. Not to say, these trends can't all go together – they totally can! But create a space where they all work together so it feels cohesive. Make sure furniture works well with each other (even ask design advice from retailers). If you add art deco elements to a modern space, keep that thread going throughout the home with similar shapes, materials and textures (without going overboard). Start with an idea, pair down to the necessities, and slowly add what feels right.

Old Paint, Broken Anything

Photo by Pixabay

Instead: Keep Up With Repairs

Walls with chipped or peeling paint can make a home look neglected so a fresh coat is always a good idea after three or so years. Fix broken fixtures too like light switches, faucets, or doorknobs to keep your home from looking old and unkempt.

Cheap Materials

Photo: Shutterstock

Instead: Opt For Natural Materials

Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon can appear low-end so use them sparingly. Of course, there are sometimes budget concerns but opting for a few quality linens, upholstery, or real wood furniture can elevate your home.

Dated Fixtures

Photography by Joao Canziani | Design: Arterberry Cooke,

Instead: Upgrade faucets, knobs, and handles

My mom was ready to remodel her whole bathroom until I told her that it was fine — she just needed to upgrade her faucet. She did and was so happy with the results. Something as small as a new bathroom faucet, kitchen handles, or new doorknobs can bring your home on trend and help eliminate embarrassing home decor mistakes.

Rental Blinds

Shutterstock

Instead: Don't Treat Windows As An Afterthought

While I do love the bare window look, it can sometimes make a room feel unfinished, especially if the windows are not new. As a renter, I couldn't stand the look of cheap rental blinds too. I'd remove them, make my own shades, and reinstall them when I moved out. Using flimsy or outdated blinds can ruin a perfectly beautiful room. It's like the final accessory to complete the look!

Lack of Scale And Proportion

Photo: Nils Timm

Instead: Create Balance

Area rugs should extend beyond the sofa and not be too small compared to the size of the room. Find furniture that fits the space and hang artwork that balances the room vs. puts it off kilter. This room by L.A. design firm House of Rolison feels harmonious and complete.

Generic Decor

Photo: Nils Timm | Design: House of Rolison

Instead: Add Personal Touches

Using generic, mass-produced decor items can make a home feel impersonal and bland. Create a sense of space and character by incorporating personal touches, such as family photos or unique decor and art pieces.

Overly Themed Rooms

Photo by Tatiana Syrikova

Instead: Scale Back On Thematic Pieces

Overdoing a specific theme, such as nautical or rustic, can feel kitschy and less sophisticated. Instead, use elements of a theme sparingly, like this woodland-themed kids room that features an animal print and little trinkets on a shelf for an adorable touch.

Main Photo by Rachel Claire

Find more home decor inspiration on our Home Decor page and subscribe to our email newsletter for all our home decor tips.

Landman fans, how we feeling? The first season of Taylor Sheridan's new drama came to a close on January 12 with the season finale, "The Crumbs of Hope," and it provided viewers with plenty of to think about as tensions between the cartel and M-Tex Oil came to a head — and one character suffered a potentially-fatal medical emergency.

Here's everything you need to know about the Landman season finale, including THAT (potential) character death.

What happens in the last episode of Landman?

Emerson Miller/Paramount+

The last episode of Landman opens after Monty's (Jon Hamm) ruptured aortic aneurysm in episode 9 lands him in the hospital for a heart transplant...if they can find a new heart in time. (I'm getting flashbacks to Dan's heart transplant catastrophe in One Tree Hill). But based on the fact Monty flatlines and Cami (Demi Moore) and their daughters cry over his bed, things aren't looking hopeful.

Meanwhile, Tommy (Billy Bob Thornton) takes over as M-Tex Oil president, and as he works on smoothing things over between the cartel and the oil company, he gets kidnapped by the cartel, who also blow up an oil tank and drive a nail into Tommy's leg for good measure. But just when it looks like Tommy might meet his end, cartel leader Galino (Andy Garcia) wipes out the other members and helps him escape.

Billy Bob and Andy have actually been friends for awhile, but this is the first time they've acted onscreen together! "Andy is such a great guy and great actor, and when we did those scenes at the end of the last episode, it felt so good, because we kind of had us two old veterans going head to head,” Billy Bob Thornton told Variety. “It was quite an experience, and I have to say every moment of it felt real. Tommy’s dealing with someone now who is really smart. The other guys were hired to work for him, but now Tommy’s talking to the man himself. There are advantages and disadvantages to that. Since he is so smart, who knows what Tommy is going to get tricked into?”

How did Landman end last night?

Landman season 1 ends with Tommy returning home with a proposition (er, more like a friendly demand) from Galino that the oil business and the cartel become allies. After all, the cartel's interested in taking part in the industry — and seeing what it has to offer.

“The cartel and the oil industry are kind of these odd neighbors living side by side in West Texas,” co-creator Christian Wallace tells Variety. “Now Andy’s character is thinking he is going to make a change and utilize that proximity in a way that could benefit him.”

Hopefully Paramount+ greenlights Landman season 2 so we can see just what happens between Galino and Tommy in the future...and if Monty makes it out of the hospital alive.

What did you think about the Landman finale? If you're a Taylor Sheridan fan who's still reeling from those final moments — and the Yellowstone finale — check out 17 TV Shows Yellowstone Fans Should Watch Next.

The unofficial start to summer, AKA Memorial Day, is approaching and we are so ready for it. Our backyards and outdoor spaces, following months of rainy, cold winter? Not so much. Thankfully, while we're hosting friends for BBQs and beach days, IKEA is hosting a sale of up to 40 percent off on outdoor furniture, lighting, storage, sofas, kid stuff, even meatballs, now through May 29. Sign us up! Here's what we're eyeing for the big day and beyond.

BONDHOLMEN Armchair (was $170, now $102)

Come and stay awhile. We'll be loading up on these comfy and roomy armchairs made from durable eucalyptus in a soft gray color, perfect for lounging with a summer cocktail.

BONDHOLMEN Table (was $429, now $257)

If you've got the room, enjoy al fresco meals at this gray outdoor table (also made in eucalyptus wood), which seats 6 comfortably at about 92 inches long.

RUNNEN Decking (was $40, now $25 per 8.719 sq feet)

Score 20 percent off outdoor flooring, from these wood stained tiles available in acacia, cream and black, to artificial grass. These tiles are easy to install (just click the pieces together) and upgrade your balcony or deck in an instant.

SJÄLLAND Armchair (was $95, now $57)

You can never have too many outdoor chairs. These garden chairs made with aluminum and hardwood stack up nicely and can double up as dining or lounge chairs. They don't come with cushions, so you'll wanna add those yourself!

SOMMARLÅNKE LED Decorative Light (was $5, now $4)

This battery-powered LED light gives off some glow for nighttime hangs, and at this price you can grab a few!

BACKSÄLEN Sofa (was $679, now $499)

Now is a good time to invest in a new sofa, and this comfy one is available in natural, white, and black. We especially love this couch because you can easily remove the cushion covers and keep clean and fresh for years to come.

NÄMMARÖ Chair (was $55, now $44)

Grab a few of these foldable wood chairs for indoor or outdoor entertaining. They're great for extra seating when you have extra guests, and they stow away easily for quieter evenings. For quieter mornings, use them for balcony breakfasts while you sip and read.

NÄMMARÖReclining Chair (was $85, on sale $65)

Great for reading or sunning, this reclining chair brings the comfort of your living room to your balcony, terrace, or garden.

SOMMARLÅNKE LED Decorative Table Lamp (was $11, now $10)

The built-in timer on this Mason-jar-like lamp automatically turns on when the sun sets, spreading a cool reflections across your table.

ENHET High Cabinet ($158, now $131)

Our bathroom could use a summer spruce up too, and could definitely use some more storage please. This cabinet takes up vertical space without hogging too much floor space. It has plenty of space to stow your everything away, making your powder room perfectly ready for your next summer soiree.

MAMMUT Children's Chair (was $18, now $15)

These colorful and easy-to-clean chairs are great for kids rooms, and you can even move them outdoors for summer play.

MAMMUT Children's Table (was $40, on sale $30)

The MAMMUT kids' table is lightweight so you can move it around easily, plus it's durable enough for outdoors (and your wild ones 😉).

VÄLGRUNDAD Bottom-Freezer Refrigerator (20% off starting May 17)

Looking for a kitchen or fridge upgrade? This stainless steel refrigerator comes with a bottom freezer for more room and easier access, plus adjustable storage bins to allow you to fit bottles of different heights. Also check out the counter-depth STJÄRNSTATUS French door refrigerator with handy filtered water feature. You'll be ready to store all your party goodies in no time!

The sale is going on now, but if you want to head over Memorial Day weekend you'll get a coupon for up to $40 off the Swedish Restaurant to save on same-day purchases of $150 or more. (Also, 20 percent off KAFFEREP cinnamon buns, mmm mmm!)

Are you home-sprucing these days? Check us out on Pinterest for more home favorites, plus decor hacks to upgrade your home!

Header image via IKEA

It Ends With Us has quickly become the most memorable movie of Blake Lively's career after rumors of drama between her and costar & director Justin Baldonimorphed into a full-on legal battle. And after the feud was uncovered, the internet has spiraled over what Blake Lively's relationships with her other costars are like — and whether what's happening behind the scenes of her movies are going to delay them. Well, A Simple Favor 2 director Paul Feig had the perfect response to rumors that another feud between Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick caused Amazon to shelve the movie.

Here's exactly what A Simple Favor 2 director Paul Feig had to say about Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively's relationship.

Paul Feig offers a very promising update on 'A Simple Favor 2'

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

When a viral tweet claimed that Amazon had indefinitely delayed A Simple Favor 2 because of a feud between Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick, director Paul Feig stepped in to clear up the rumors.

"Despite glowing test screenings, Blake Lively’s refusal to promote—amid her messy legal battle with Justin Baldoni—and growing tensions with Anna Kendrick have derailed the sequel," X user Eric B tweeted on January 10. "Anna is furious. Paul Feig is disappointed. Hollywood is in shock. This isn’t just a movie—it’s an implosion."

"This is total BS. Sorry," Feig said in his retweet that same day. "The movie is finished and coming out soon. Don’t believe anything you read on social media these days."

And Anna Kendrick says reuniting with Blake Lively was "lovely."

Anna Kendrick also spilled on reuniting with Blake Lively, claiming that working together felt "a little bit like riding a bike."

"She lives on the East Coast, I live on the West Coast, so we don't get to see each other often," she told PEOPLE. "But it was lovely, and I think that those characters have such weird chemistry that it's so fun to just get the gang back together."

We don't know many details about the plot just yet but we do know it involves a destination wedding — and Blake Lively's Emily in a very fancy wedding dress. Stephanie and Emily "head to the beautiful island of Capri, Italy, for Emily’s extravagant wedding to a rich Italian businessman," according to the movie's synopsis (via People). "Along with the glamorous guests, expect murder and betrayal to RSVP for a wedding with more twists and turns than the road from the Marina Grande to the Capri town square."

Sign me up!

Check out The Best Blake Lively Movies to get ready for A Simple Favor 2.

Are you anxiously waiting for new TV shows to debut this year? Me too, particularly Meghan Markle's series With Love, Megan (January 15). But, we at Brit + Co have the perfect buffer that'll hold you over — revisiting the '90s.

Instead of trying to cram the likes of Dawson's Creek or Sex and the City into one weekend, we have the best show you should watch based on your zodiac! We've already made cozy plans to curl up with a cute blanket from T.J. Maxx so we can watch endless reruns of the shows associated with our signs, and we hope you join us!

Scroll to find the '90s show that perfectly matches your zodiac sign!

Brit + Co

Aries (March 21 - April 19): Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Bold, fearless, and always ready for a fight, Aries will love Buffy's courageous spirit and kick-ass attitude. She's got all the makings of a fire sign who means business.

Brit + Co

Taurus (April 20 - May 20): Friends

Taureans appreciate stability and comfort. Friends offers warm, familiar characters and a cozy, sitcom vibe. If you really want to tap into this vibe, call your besties and have an impromptu watch party!

Brit + Co

Gemini (May 21 - June 20): Felicity

Curious and ever-changing, Geminis will relate to Felicity's journey of self-discovery and her endless quest for knowledge. There's also the inevitable complicated relationship Felicity has with Ben and Noel that's hard to resist.

Brit + Co

Cancer (June 21 - July 22): Moesha

Cancerians are nurturing and empathetic. They'll connect with Moesha's family-oriented values and emotional depth. Though she didn't get everything right, Moesha always tried to remedy things whenever they went wrong — just like a true Cancer.

Brit + Co

Leo (July 23 - August 22): Beverly Hills, 90210

Leos love the spotlight and drama. 90210 delivers glamorous characters, high-stakes situations, and plenty of over-the-top moments.

Brit + Co

Virgo (August 23 - September 22): The X-Files

Virgos are analytical and detail-oriented. The X-Files offers a perfect blend of mystery, science, and a touch of the paranormal. What's not to love?

Brit + Co

Libra (September 23 - October 22): Sex and the City

Libras appreciate beauty, balance, and social connections. Sex and the City explores love, friendship, and fashion in a stylish and sophisticated way.

P.S. We won't be shocked if some of you discover you're more of a 'Charlotte' than a 'Carrie.'

Brit + Co

Scorpio (October 23 - November 21): Charmed

Intense and passionate, Scorpios will be drawn to the supernatural world of the Charmed Ones, filled with dark magic and powerful sisterhood.

Brit + Co

Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21): Fresh Prince of Bel-Air

Adventurous and optimistic, Sagittarians will enjoy the Fresh Prince's witty humor, vibrant personality, and knack for getting into trouble.

Brit + Co

Capricorn (December 22 - January 19): Dawson’s Creek

Ambitious and disciplined, Capricorns will appreciate Dawson's intellectual pursuits and the show's exploration of complex relationships and coming-of-age themes.

Brit + Co

Aquarius (January 20 - February 18): Daria

Quirky and independent, Aquarians will identify with Daria's unique perspective and her ability to see through societal norms. It's also not surprising that Daria has what some call a 'black cat' personality because Aquarians can have a dry sense of humor that's borderline sarcastic.

Brit + Co

Pisces (February 19 - March 20): Sabrina, the Teenage Witch

Dreamy and imaginative, Pisces will love Sabrina's magical adventures and her ability to navigate the challenges of adolescence with a touch of magic.

Revisit your weekly horoscope to see if our predictions for your zodiac came true this week!