Do you beeline to your gym’s sauna or get a little too excited about the sweat-cold plunge cycle at a spa? Better yet: Is a bathroom remodel on your horizon? It’s time to consider a steam shower. We’re seeing the feature incorporated more and more in homes beyond luxury new builds—but don’t call it trendy. Steam has been used as a wellness practice for thousands of years, and perhaps we’re all just catching on now. Designers across the U.S. are bringing this perk into their practice more regularly, whether for their own houses or client projects. 

“As more and more people have the flexibility to work from home and work out at home, I do anticipate a rise in popularity,” says Jennelle Butera of Hudson + Bloum Design. Read on for all the details on what it takes to put in a steam shower at home.

What Is a Steam Shower? 

Simply put, a steam shower starts with a briefcase-size generator, which heats H2O from a water line until it vaporizes. The steam is then released via a steam line and steamhead in your shower wall—and voilà! Enthusiasts name-check all kinds of health benefits that steam can provide: stress relief, muscle recovery, skin hydration, and more.

When it comes to steam showers, one label reigns supreme: Mr. Steam. The 100-year-old brand is beloved by designers for its heritage, range of packages, and features like music streaming and aromatherapy. “We have used only Mr. Steam for the past 10 years,” Butera divulges. “It is great quality and our clients have never complained.”

How Much Does a Steam Shower Cost? 

Martha Orellanas, vice president of marketing at Mr. Steam and a 30-year industry vet, puts the main price range of a steam shower between $2,000 and $7,000, and notes that it can go up to $10,000 with more bells and whistles (like the aforementioned aromatherapy and music). But looking in the other direction, she adds that a basic setup can come in under $2,000. It might sound like a lot, but it’s important to weigh the cost against your alternative routine. “How much money do we spend going to spas, or how much money do we spend going to a gym?” asks Orellanas. 

There are more budget-friendly options out there, too. In designer Nick Poe’s experience, an expensive unit isn’t necessary to achieve steam in a small space. When he redesigned his downtown New York City apartment, he had to build the bathroom from scratch, so he installed a more affordable 6-kilowatt generator from Amazon to make his tiny tiled bathroom a respite. 

How Do You Install a Steam Shower? 

Short answer: It’s not a DIY. “We always ask if [clients] want a steam shower because this changes the design of the shower,” Butera says. “It needs to be planned out properly.” Orellanas echoes this sentiment, explaining that while you might be able to swap in an upgraded toilet later, you can’t do that with steam; it’s best to include it in your initial remodel plans if you think you might want it. Marissa Corvino of Corvino Designs adds that it’s smart to also mention your plan to your general contractor and electrician. In addition to the power line and the steam line, you’ll need a drain line leading away from the shower.

The generator power you choose should align with your shower sizing—Mr. Steam has a handy calculator for this. Think about it like the BTUs of an air conditioner, says Orellanas. What size space do you want to fill with steam, and how quickly do you want the process to start? The bigger the space, the more BTUs, the larger the unit. That said, there is such a thing as going too big (or high). “The ceiling height really should be 7 to 8 feet, no more,” Orellanas advises. That’s because steam rises, and if you want to enjoy the benefits, you need to contain it.

Speaking of the generator, you’ll want to install yours in an accessible nook with an electrical outlet near the shower: in a crawl space; hidden in a built-in shower bench; or concealed in millwork like a side cabinet, vanity, or closet. “We used a base cabinet in our home office, which is located adjacent to our primary shower,” Corvino says.

Installation doesn’t end there. You need to consider the steam outlet, which Orellanas says you should place 6 inches to 1 foot from the floor (you want the steam coming out as low as possible).

Then it’s about where to put the controls. If you’ve built a shower bench into your design, you want the temperature and/or feature panel at shoulder length next to where you sit so it’s easy to reach. Mr. Steam has integrations for entertainment like Spotify and even Netflix. You can use its panels to preset a time for steam to heat up or to release essential oils for aromatherapy. Corvino adds that a wireless remote add-on allows you to toggle the steam on and off and control the temperature from your phone.

Finally, any ceiling lighting within the shower needs to be wet-rated, and, to that end, ventilation is key, too. That’s because the shower glass or watertight space has to seal in the steam, and you’ll need proper flow to remove moist warm air from the room to prevent mildew, says designer Tricia Portelli of Scribe Studio. 

What Should Your Steam Shower Look Like?  

One of the main design considerations for steam showers is materials. Naturally, nonporous stone is the ideal choice. “Porcelain tile is probably the best tile for a steam room, because it’s really sealed and you don’t have to take care of it,” Orellanas explains. “The grout line should be very thin as well.” Butera tends to opt for ceramic and porcelain, too, over natural stone, because they hold heat better. “Natural stone tends to dissipate the steam and cools the space faster,” she says. 

In its Deer Valley, Utah, project, for example, Hudson + Bloum used ceramic tile on the walls and shower lid, marble for the bench, and marble mosaic on the shower floor. “We like to use mosaics on shower floors for a nonslip surface, and more grout joints equals better grip when wet,” says Butera. Nobody recommends a fully wood interior; instead, consider teak for a bench or seat.

As for the doors, instead of one large glass partition, Corvino recommends two smaller doors that allow less steam to escape as you enter and exit. That’s the design she chose for her New Jersey brownstone bathroom. “Pivot hinges on double shower doors are a power move,” she states. They save on bathroom space, and when the doors are wet, she swings them inside the shower to dry off. Alternatively, designer Amber Lewis often favors multipane doors and glass, if that’s your thing, and she always fully encloses showers.

There are alternative ways to craft a steam shower if your preference is to not install a unit or you have space constraints. In one case, Portelli crafted a completely enclosed shower outfitted with a transom window to create the same effect.“ The choice to extend the enclosure all the way to the ceiling, coupled with the shower’s relatively compact size, facilitates the rapid generation of steam when taking a hot shower,” she explains. The operable window is key: It allows you to air out the shower as you move onto the rest of your self-care routine. 

The post This Zen Home Upgrade Is Picking Up Steam—We Asked Designers to Weigh In appeared first on domino.

It seems like New Year’s resolutions are easier to break than to keep, but maybe that’s because they aren’t followed by a motivating purchase. If Domino style editor Julia Stevens’s fancy new gym membership isn’t enough, she’s investing in flattering workout clothes to get her in the weight room (don’t worry, she doesn’t plan on taking any gym selfies). Our home editor, Lydia Geisel, is looking to have a little direction with weeknight dinners, planning inspired meals ahead with the help of a buzzy cookbook. And because photo director and new mom Andie Diemer is hoping for some much-needed sleep, she’s snagging the Oura Ring to track her journey. We’ll be sure to report back on our thriving new habits in 2025. 

Julia Stevens, style editor

Resolution: To finally have upper-body strength.

In my cart: Workout clothes to give me confidence in the weight room. 

Airlift Suit Up Bra, Alo Yoga ($74)

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I’m certainly not the first person whose New Year’s resolution is to get in shape, but considering I just joined Equinox, I think I actually have to do it this year (the only way to justify the membership cost is to become a gym rat). I specifically want to work on my upper-body strength, but like at every gym, the weight room can be more than a little intimidating—especially if you have no idea what you’re doing. My sister just started working at Alo Yoga, and everything I’ve purchased so far is super-flattering. Wearing an Alo set not only makes me feel like a pro, it gets me excited to wake up early and pump iron. Needless to say, I’m putting in my next order ASAP. 

Lydia Geisel, home editor

Resolution: To plan weeknight dinners more than five minutes in advance.

In my cart: A cookbook whose title says it all.

The Cook You Want to Be by Andy Baraghani, Amazon ($20 was $35)

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I have a bad habit of waiting until it’s 6:30 p.m. and I’m hangry to wonder: What should I make for dinner tonight? While meal prepping doesn’t totally feel achievable at this stage in my life, I’d love to be a better meal planner and mock up a menu of healthy, easy recipes at the start of each week. The title of Andy Baraghani’s debut cookbook alone makes me feel encouraged, and it comes highly recommended by my chef-ier coworkers. There’s no reason to wait until the last second when you have a bible full of satisfying dishes like fall-apart caramelized cabbage and tangy pomegranate chicken.  

Julie Vadnal, deputy editor

Resolution: To stay in more.

In my cart: Hosting accessories that bring the party home. 

Love Is in the Hair Puzzle, Le Puzz ($32)

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Pistachio Stripe Runner, Dusen Dusen ($48 was $62)

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After a couple of post-pandemic years of intense traveling and going out, I’m really ready to nest again. From now on, if there’s a dinner party, I’m hosting it, so bring on the puzzles and cozy slippers. Sorry, I can’t go out tonight; I have plans at my apartment. 

Samantha Weiss-Hills, managing shopping editor

Resolution: To stay excited about running until marathon training starts.

In my cart: A music-enabled watch and fancy bath products for a rewarding post-run shower.

Forerunner® 255S Music Watch, Garmin ($350 was $400)

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The Bathhouse Edit, Flamingo Estate ($184)

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I spent the back half of 2023 running—a lot. The miles I put in were enough to gain me entry into the 2024 New York Marathon, my first 26.2 race. But sometimes it’s difficult for me to get out the door and rack up the distance needed for training, and it’s extra-hard when I’m looking at a 10-month stretch until my goal. To stay motivated until it’s time to really lock in, I need products that’ll keep me excited about hitting the pavement all through winter and spring. A smartwatch that is music-enabled means there’s less for me to carry while I bump tunes out there, and staying stocked with fancy bath products means I have a decadent, post-run shower to come back to. 

Brit Ashcraft, design director

Resolution: To travel more.

In my cart: Easy accessories I’d look forward to packing.

3D Zip Set, Baggu ($36)

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The Cashmere Relaxed V-Neck, Everlane ($178)

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Lip Sleeping Mask Intense Hydration with Vitamin C, Laneige ($24)

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I’m ready to shed my pandemic shut-in habits and travel more. I consider myself a connoisseur of black sweaters, and Everlane’s oversize cashmere style is easy to pack and classic enough to go with everything. Next on the list: Baggu’s lightweight travel cases that keep everything organized and clean, from shoes to cosmetics. And lastly, both at home and away, the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask will be by my side every night of 2024. It’s not too goopy or glossy, and the slight pink hue brings a little life to my lips, even when I’m jet-lagged. 

Andie Diemer, photo director

Resolution: To get more sleep.

In my cart: The wellness Ring everyone’s talking about.

Horizon, Oura Ring ($499)

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Silk Sleep Mask, Drowsy ($79)

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To be the best mom you can, you need to make sure you’re caring for yourself. Since welcoming a baby earlier this year, there has been a ton of focus on sleep—just not my own. Now that my daughter is 7 months old, I’m ready to invest more time into making sure I’m fully rested. The Oura Ring tracks 20 biometric signals and provides personalized health insights—from daily stress and sleep scores to early illness and period detections—to flag when I may need to shift more of my attention to myself. And from everything I’ve heard, Drowsy’s silk sleep mask is perfect to help sneak in an extra daytime nap. 

Belle Morizio, photographer + assistant photo editor

Resolution: To keep my tiny apartment organized, starting with the bathroom.

In my cart: A superslim rolling cart and colorful glass canisters. 

Yamazaki Home Rolling Slim Bathroom Utility Cart with Handle, Amazon ($145)

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Glass Container, Hay ($11 was $35)

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One area of my home that always gets a little crazy throughout the year is my bathroom. Living in a smaller New York City apartment doesn’t leave many options for storage. That’s why this slim Yamazaki rolling cart will be perfect for storing cleaning supplies and extra toilet paper. I plan on keeping the open side against the wall to conceal clutter. While I’m at it, I’m also planning on ordering a few of these (very on sale) Hay containers, which are the perfect size for cotton swabs and pads and so much cuter than drugstore packaging.

The post Everything Domino Editors Are Buying to Actually Achieve Their New Year’s Resolutions in 2024 appeared first on domino.

Exercise means something different to everyone, but one thing we can come together on is that there is always room for better-looking gear in a sea of bland equipment. IKEA’s newest collection, Dajlien, introduces 19 products designed for movement at home, including sage-hued ring weights, a bamboo step board, and even a portable speaker. Prices range from a $4 set of hand towels to a $135 storage bench that’ll pack all your gear in one place and then double as a coffee table. 

Debuting at Art Basel today and coming to stores in January, the collection is all about multifunctional fitness products that blend seamlessly into the home and inspire you to stay active. “A couple of years back, we took part in research on training and found that women with small kids and teen girls are likely to drop out of sports,” says Sarah Fager, a designer at IKEA. “We thought that we could address that somehow.”

So they visited homes in four large cities—New York, Chicago, London, and Shanghai—to speak with individuals about the obstacles they face to being active. Motivation, limited space, time constraints, and working out in gyms all numbered among the reasons. Then the pandemic hit, and making space to move at home became even more important. The designers took all of this into account while dreaming up the products, and looks were paramount.

“The colors were a really important part of the collection,” IKEA designer Akanksha Deo explains. The intention comes through in a palette that is sunny and warm without being knock-the-lights-out bright, with shades of green and yellow featured throughout. Each piece puts a premium on easy operation and storage as well as portability. 

If you’re wondering if the pieces will actually work for your routine, take it from Fager and the other three female designers behind Dajlien: They not only tested the products themselves at home but had professional trainers come up with circuit routines around them.

Almost every product is versatile in its use, which speaks to the designers’ aim to create adaptable items that flex across age, ability, and room size—all without sacrificing style. The exercise mat, for example, is more generous in shape and size than your standard rectangle, and it has a smaller companion that can be paired to accommodate a child if they want to join a parent. The valet stand offers spots for hanging clothes, a resistance band, or other things you want accessible, like the ring weights or one of the cozy ponchos.

“The uniqueness of this collection is that we don’t really define what training is for people, so they can define it for themselves,” Deo says.

The post This New IKEA Storage Bench Doubles as Fitness Equipment appeared first on domino.

Whatever ails you during winter’s more brutal months—chapped lips, eczema, allergies—one small, simple item may be the solution: a humidifier. Both of the board-certified dermatologists we spoke to (Dr. Morgan Rabach and Dr. Anthony Rossi) agree that those who stand to benefit the most from this handy machine are those who seasonally suffer from dry nose, dry cough, or dry eyes. That’s because it’s designed to combat the lack of moisture in the air caused by the weather and exacerbated by your heating system. But with a myriad of options to mull over, how to decide which one to restore your home’s moisture levels? We’re of the mindset that the best humidifiers are not only low-lift (think: auto functions and other buzzy tech features like a built-in essential oil diffuser) but don’t necessarily stick out like a high-tech sore thumb either. Our favorite picks, below, will help you survive the chillier months ahead while simultaneously blending in with your surrounding decor on a shelf or side table.

Our Favorites

• Best sculptural: Vitruvi Cloud Cool Mist Humidifier
• Best aromatic: Canopy Humidifier Bundles
• Best value: Crane Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier
• Best easy to use: Honeywell Cool Mist Humidifier HUL430
• Best easy to clean: Symdral 4L Cool Mist Humidifier
• Best splurge: Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool PH03
• Best smart: Levoit Classic 300S Ultrasonic Smart Humidifier
• Best quiet: Homech Cool Mist Humidifier 6L

Best Sculptural: Vitruvi Cloud Cool Mist Humidifier

Weight: 3.46 pounds | Colors: White, sand | Number of settings: 4 | Capacity: 1.5 liters

Cloud Cool Mist Humidifier, Vitruvi ($229)

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Why we chose it: Looks more like art (and not at all like an appliance).

At first glance, you might mistake Vitruvi’s ultrasonic humidifier for an objet or ceramic piece. Its sculptural exterior, surprising construction of BPA-free and recycled plastic, and aesthetic appeal aren’t the only reasons it comes so well reviewed. While on the small side, offering a capacity of just 1.5 liters of water, it is compact enough to sit out on a nightstand but still fully capable of adding moisture back into a room up to 600 square feet thanks to a 360-degree rotating spout. If you’re worried about its illuminated buttons preventing a restful sleep, however, Night Mode shuts all the lights off so you can snooze without any distractions, considering all of the five misting outputs hum at a whisper-quiet 26.8 decibels. We’re also big fans of the fact that its reservoir is fully removable and dishwasher safe. “Use it for one night and you will be hooked. It is beautiful, quiet, and gives out the moisture you skin didn’t know it needed,” one reviewer writes. “Its sleek and elegant design seamlessly blends with my home decor, adding a touch of sophistication to any room,” another points out.

Best Aromatic: Canopy Humidifier Bundles

Bedside Humidifier, Canopy ($150)

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Weight: Varies | Colors: White, moonstruck, cream, pink, green, blue | Number of settings: Varies | Capacity: 2.5 liters to 5.5 liters

Why we chose it: A humidifier and diffuser in one.

This sleek machine is a favorite among wellness fanatics, thanks to its steamless system and waterless diffuser. Aside from the six palatable color choices, this larger unit is sold as three different models: a bedside and nursery size (both cover rooms up to 500 square feet) and the Plus, which covers spaces up to 1,000 square feet. But aside from hydrating users, this humidifier earns bonus points for including an essential-oil tray. In fact, you bundle your purchase together with a subscription to kits and exclusive fragrances. All you have to do is add five to eight drops of pure essential oils onto the aroma puck for the cent to naturally evaporate into the air free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates, mineral oils, and synthetic dyes. “Scents are usually too strong for me, but the Lull and Arise are perfect,” one shopper shares. Another adds it is subtle and reminiscent of walking into a luxurious hotel lobby. And another was so impressed, they bought two more for other rooms in their home.

Best Value: Crane Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier

Weight: 4 pounds | Color: White | Number of settings: Varies | Capacity: 1 gallon 

Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier, Amazon ($40 was $60)

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Why we chose it: Affordable and compact with an adjustable top.

A small humidifier that packs a punch, this ultrasonic option from Crane is beloved by many (including our deputy editor, Julie Vadnal) for what the brand calls its “whisper quiet” effect and multiple color options, making it a strong choice for kids’ and adults’ bedrooms alike. The process of refilling and cleaning the water tank is pretty turnkey, but it’s the air nozzle that’s particularly useful: It’s an adjustable 360-degree lid that allows you to choose where to direct the mist flow. 

Worth considering, though: There is a small green “on” light that might bother those who prefer a pitch-black room or kids who might find it distracting while falling asleep.

Best Easy to Use: Honeywell Designer Series Cool Mist Humidifier

Weight: 5 pounds | Color: White | Number of settings: Varies | Capacity: 1.25 gallons 

Honeywell Designer Series Cool Mist Humidifier, PUR ($72)

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Why we chose it: Simple to use (and a breeze to keep clean).

The variable output setting on this easy-to-use option lets you adjust the mist via a metal control wheel; leave it on low and one water fill-up lasts a full 24 hours. There’s a window with three lighting options so you can see when your reservoir is ready for a refill (red), and the unit will automatically shut off when empty, which is quite handy. Plus the design comes with an essential-oil tray for those who want to add a calming aroma to the room.

There’s also no need for a filter, and while this eliminates tedious filter maintenance, it also means you’ll need to use filtered water and be diligent about cleaning your water tank to avoid mold and air contamination. (Note: If you use tap water, it’s possible that white dust will form on surfaces around your humidifier due to the minerals in the water.) Our editors recommend tossing in one of these cleaning balls to help with the process.

Best Easy to Clean: Symdral 4L Cool Mist Mumidifier

Weight: 4.3 pounds | Color: White | Number of settings: Varies | Capacity: 4 liters

4L Cool Mist Humidifier, Symdral ($43)

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Why we chose it: Designed for quick and thorough cleanings.

As a devoted humidifier user, there’s one thing Domino’s deputy photo editor, Andie Diemer, could not enjoy less: the inevitable cleaning routine. Enter Symdral’s cool-mist humidifier. “This one has been a game changer for me—not only does it hold more water than any other humidifier I’ve owned (which means fewer refill trips), but it’s also designed with an inlet that is large enough to put your hand into, so you can actually clean the inside.” She adds that it’s silent and has no lights, so it’s a safe bet for a bedroom, and it has an outlet that can point mist in any direction.

The kicker, she says, is “a small brush that lives inside the base, which is clutch for thoroughly cleaning all the nooks, and it never gets lost since you can stick it back in the unit until the next cleaning.” Sign us up. 

Best Splurge: Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool PH03

Weight: 18 pounds | Color: Black/nickel | Number of settings: 10 | Capacity: 1 gallon 

Purifier Humidify+Cool PH03, Dyson ($900)

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Why we chose it: This is the Cadillac of humidifiers. 

It doesn’t fall under the umbrella of affordable, no, but it’s a home investment with a whole lot to offer. A purifier, humidifier, and fan all in one, this Dyson model has integrated sensors that analyze your air in real time and displays these live diagnostics on a LCD screen. The HEPA filter captures 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns in size and also removes odors and gasses. As far as the humidifier goes, there’s an ultraviolet cleanse technology inside that gets rid of bacteria in the water, and you can get up to 36 hours of humidification off of a 1-gallon tank. 

The machine has a monthly deep-clean cycle that can be activated by pressing a button and following the step-by-step process; it also signals when it’s time to change the combination filter. Other smart features include voice control, so you can use it with services like Amazon Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant.

Best Smart: Levoit Classic 300S Ultrasonic Smart Humidifier

Weight: 4.3 pounds | Color: White/gray | Number of settings: 4 | Capacity: 6 liters

Classic 300S Ultrasonic Smart Humidifier, Levoit ($70 was $80)

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Why we chose it: Fun features galore.

At its core, a humidifier is meant to add moisture to the air. But this model takes it up a notch with a broad swath of features, including smart control, voice command, auto and sleep modes, aromatherapy, and optional nightlight. The top-fill design makes adding more water especially effortless, and the cool mist can cover an approximately 500-square-foot room. Also, thanks to ultrasonic humidification technology, it’s very quiet. 

The only potential drawback is the square-shaped tank, which might be harder to find a location for than a round model.

Best Quiet: Homech Cool Mist Humidifier 6L

Weight: 5.24 pounds | Color: White | Number of settings: Varies | Capacity: 6 liters

Cool Mist Humidifier, Homech ($27 was $60)

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Why we chose it: A silent pick well suited for kids and light sleepers.

If you’re worried about a humidifier keeping you up at night, this cool-mist option uses patent-pending technology that reduces noise to 26 decibels. The water lasts for 20 to 60 hours on a full tank and can humidify rooms between 215 and 430 square feet. There’s a dial that allows you to control the mist levels, and when it’s time to refill the water, a 3.54-inch “water inlet” makes that process all the easier.

More potentially useful details? The optional nightlight, plus a water gauge LED light that can be turned on and off (the light will turn red when the tank is empty and automatically shut off).  

More Humidifiers We Love

Objecto W4 Hybrid Humidifier, West Elm ($200)

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CarePod 31S Stainless Steel Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier, Amazon ($275)

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How We Chose These Products

First, we consulted with two medical experts to get more context on why humidifiers are important and compiled a list of the various characteristics that can make this purchase particularly useful, including smart technology, auto features, and mist run time. After researching dozens of models and doing a final quality check, we edited our list down to the machines that also offered the sleekest, least clunky design. If a humidifier is going to be a daily fixture in your room, you’ll want it to blend in, right?

Our Shopping Checklist

Design

The design for most humidifiers involves a water tank and a base of some kind. Beyond those basics is where function and form can hit their stride. Beginning from the top, a couple of design details to look out for include wider openings (to make water refills more effortless) and spouts that can rotate (to allow more flexibility when choosing where to direct the mist). As for water tanks, shapes can range from the standard round and rectangular to bolder silhouettes resembling water drops or even animals for the kid set. Generally speaking, these water tanks hold around 1 to 1.5 gallons of water. Finally, LCD screens and other settings are located on the base of most machines to help you personalize your humidification process.

Cool vs. Warm Mist

Many of the humidifiers on our list are cool-mist ultrasonic humidifiers. However, there are models that offer warm mist and those that offer cool mist through ultrasonic or evaporative technology. Warm mist can be good for reducing bacteria and an overall quieter experience since there’s no fan. However, warm steam can pose a burn threat, particularly for young children. As for cool mist, ultrasonic is the quieter of the two, and cleaning is typically very easy. However, these models are more likely to contaminate the air if not cared for properly, so cleaning regularly and using distilled water is key. Evaporative humidifiers use a wick or a filter with a fan to pump water vapor into the air; they’re usually not quite as quiet and require more filter maintenance, but they’re better at preventing bacteria growth. 

Size

To figure out what size humidifier to get, consider how large your room is and how much space you have for the actual unit. Most options store around a gallon of water and can be conveniently placed somewhere like a bedside table or bookshelf, while others—like the Dyson model—are larger and can be positioned in the corner of a room.

Adjustments and Settings

As mentioned above, some humidifiers have LCD screens, while others function with a settings wheel or switch. These typically allow you to choose how little or how much mist to humidify your room with, and some designs also have an auto option that analyzes your room’s humidity levels in real time. Another component to look out for is run time per water refill. The options above range from 24 to 36 hours, usually when the humidifier is running at its lowest speed. If you don’t want to constantly refill your water tank, opt for a humidifier that’s more efficient, and only leave it on when your room’s humidity levels are lacking. 

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning is nonnegotiable when it comes to using a humidifier. “Anytime you have stagnant water, this can breed mold, mildew, and bacteria,” Rossi explains. As a rule of thumb, you should be cleaning your humidifier about once a week. Consult the manual for your humidifier’s specific cleaning instructions, but a generally good method is to unplug the device, empty any remaining water, fill the base with a cup of distilled water and a cup of white vinegar, and allow this mixture to sit for around an hour. Meanwhile, fill the water tank with undiluted white vinegar (a couple of cups should work), seal it closed, and rigorously shake for a few minutes. Empty both base and tank, rinse with water, and allow them to air-dry.

Ask Domino

Q: What size space can a regular humidifier cover?

Humidifiers are used in an enclosed space. Each model will indicate what room size it’s best suited for, but most standard-size humidifiers can cover up to 400 or 500 square feet.

Q: My walls are pretty thin. Are humidifiers loud?

They shouldn’t be. Many humidifiers on the market use ultrasonic humidification, which tends to be quieter than evaporative humidification. Some brands will list the sound dB (decibel), while others might include a sound patent that illustrates how quiet their products can be—all good details to look for when researching your options.

Q: Is it okay to leave a humidifier on all day?

Maybe take some breaks. While it’s not dangerous, per se, to leave a humidifier on all day, there’s a chance you could increase the humidity above desired levels (which is between 30% and 50% humidity, Rabach notes). Doing this increases the chance of things like mold and mildew and can actually make it more difficult to breathe. Plus the longer you leave your humidifier on, the more frequently you’ll need to refill the water.

The Last Word

As Rossi puts it: “Humidifiers are a best-kept secret” for all sorts of winter woes. Whether you have dry skin, seasonal allergies, or year-round eczema, these devices are effective at moisturizing the air and aiding with the above symptoms, he adds. We love the idea of improving our skin and breathing better, and this small ritual of flipping on a humidifier each day (or auto-programming it to turn on just before bedtime) feels like a supremely soothing form of self-care.

The post Dry Skin and Chapped Lips Have Nothing on the Best Humidifiers appeared first on domino.

The struggle for hot sleepers is real. You climb into bed and drift off to sleep with your head coddled by the cold side of the pillow. And then in the middle of the night you’re jolted awake by the worst nightmare—you’re practically drowning in your sweaty sheets.

If you’ve spent your last soggy morning wondering how to stay cool at night, first consider this: Your bedding, beverages, and even the temperature of your shower can play a part—but not how you think. We talked to the pros and busted a few myths to help you get a more chill slumber.

Myth: Your Whole Body Needs to Cool

Bamboo bedding checks off several boxes that point toward a good night’s rest, and certified sleep consultant Kelly Murray tells us that even just adding a pillow in the natural material is useful for those who run warm. “Cooling your head can effectively cool your core body temperature,” she notes. “Sleeping on a pillow made of bamboo fibers can help with this, especially for sleepers who tend to overheat.”

Myth: You Should Only Take Cold Showers

“Contrary to popular belief, a warm shower or bath is a great way to cool down,” says One Medical provider and regional medical director Natasha Bhuyan, M.D. Sure, cold water might feel refreshing before climbing into bed on an especially hot day, but it’s stimulating rather than relaxing, so it can make it more difficult to fall asleep, she adds. Once you step out of the shower, your body will naturally start to cool down.  

Myth: Memory Foam Always Overheats

You’ve likely heard that memory foam mattresses trap heat, but not all memory foam is made equally. Yes, they’re denser than traditional coil mattresses and might allow for less circulation—hence, higher temperatures for sleepers—but the right materials can allow for optimal airflow. “Look for one with temperature-regulating fibers or a layer of cooling gel,” says Craig Schmeizer, founder and CEO of Idle Group (which includes companies Idle and Haven).

Myth: Being a Hot Sleeper Is Always Natural

Everyone has a varying baseline body temp, but that doesn’t mean you’re necessarily bound to be a warm sleeper for life. “There could be aggravating factors at play,” says Bhuyan. The temperature in your room, eating right before bed, drinking alcohol or caffeine late in the day, and even hormonal fluctuations can lead to unpleasantly warm, restless nights. 

Myth: Mattress Protectors Don’t Matter

It’s not just your mattress that matters. “Starting at the base of your bedding is an easy way to make sure every layer of your situation is as cool as ‘the other side of the pillow,’” says Schmeizer. He recommends using a protector made with Tencel fiber, which wicks away excess moisture, leading to overall more comfortable sleep. 

Myth: A Fan Lowers the Temperature in Your Space

If you’re not cranking the AC, Bhuyan recommends opening the window and using a fan to circulate the air in your space. “Although that won’t lower the temperature of the room, it can create a sensation of cooling,” she says. If you’re using an overhead one, make sure it goes counterclockwise for the optimal effect. 

Tower Fan, by Mellso, Walmart ($21)

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Low Profile Ceiling Fan, by Hunter Cranbook, Amazon ($298 was $399)

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Mini Modern Personal Vintage Circulator, by Vornado, Target ($39)

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Myth: Silky Sheets Are Always Cooling

Slippery satin or microfiber sheets might seem like they would offer a more chill night’s rest, but it’s best to stick to the classics. “Cotton pajamas and sheets are the most breathable and can help keep us cool at night,” says Bhuyan. Percale sheets have a looser weave than sateen, so you may want to start there when shopping for your next set, but bamboo, hemp, and linen sheets are great options, too.

Percale Bed Bundle, Parachute Home ($398-$1,054)

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Bamboo Sheet Set, Walmart ($33)

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Linen Core Sheet Set, Brooklinen ($254 was $299)

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The post How to Stay Cool at Night, Even When You’re a Hot Sleeper appeared first on domino.

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Reading up on Domino’s shopping guides is like having your own personal product concierge. We do the tedious part—deep-dive research, hands-on testing, and tapping experts for advice—so all you have to do is hit “add to cart.” That’s why we call them Simply the Best.

When you think about your skin-care routine, you probably envision the cleansers, serums, and moisturizers currently on your shelf. Something else to consider, though? The pillowcase you sleep on each night. To be clear, a new pimple is never fully caused by your pillowcase—but the surface might be contributing to the frequency and severity of your breakouts, says Dr. Lorraine Beraho, founder of GlowRx Skincare. “A pillowcase provides a breeding ground for pimple-causing bacteria and skin irritation with rough-textured fabrics,” she adds. 

If you’re like us (and only want your pillowcase to be a breeding ground for quality z’s), consider swapping yours for one of our seven picks, below. The best pillowcases for acne are made of materials recommended by skin-care experts, and—equally as important—they make a clean, luxe upgrade to your bedding.

Our Favorites

• Best overall: Silvon Pillowcase
• Best value: Zimasilk 100 Percent Mulberry Silk 
• Best colors: Good Side Standard Silk Pillowcase
• Best silk: Slip Zippered Pillowcase
• Best luxe: Frette Ajour Pillowcase Set
• Best bamboo: Sunday Citizen Premium Bamboo Pillowcase Set
• Best low-maintenance: Déjà Cotton Pillowcase

Best Overall: Silvon Pillowcase

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Material: Silver and Supima cotton | Machine washable: Yes | Hypoallergenic: Yes | Sizes: Standard, king 

Why we chose it: The best pillowcase for skin is light, breathable, and potentially bacteria repelling.

Come for the light and airy cotton (and calming muted tones), stay for the unique silver fibers. “Silver has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, so in theory, a pillowcase containing silver may help with the bacterial aspects of acne,” says dermatologist Dr. David Lortscher, cofounder and CEO of Curology. More research is needed in the area, he notes, but this pick’s breathable Supima cotton is ideal for acne-prone skin—less sweat equals less buildup. A nice bonus: The 30-night trial (which goes for any of the brand’s products). We think you’ll love it—but if you don’t, the company will refund your $40 (with free shipping, to boot). 

Best Value: Zimasilk 100 Percent Mulberry Silk 

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Material: Mulberry silk | Machine washable: Yes | Hypoallergenic: Yes  | Sizes: Standard, queen, king, toddler, throw, body 

Why we chose it: One hundred percent silk at a low price point makes this an easy “add to cart” decision.  

While silk can fall on the pricier side, this 600-thread-count option rings in under $30. Reviews applaud the light and cool feel of the pillowcase and hidden zipper, which helps keep the pillow from slipping out. The breathable silk is ideal for acne-prone skin because it doesn’t trap oil and sweat the way that synthetic fabrics (such as polyester) might, says Lortscher: “Bacteria thrive in a moist environment, so if your pillowcase is covered with oil and sweat, it might aggravate a breakout.” The luxe look and extensive color options don’t hurt either.

Best Colors: Good Side Standard Silk Pillowcase

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Material: Mulberry silk | Machine washable: Yes | Hypoallergenic: Yes | Sizes: Standard

Why we chose it: Six fun color options to add instant oomph to your linens.

In addition to being made from 100 percent mulberry silk—one of the most ideal materials for acne-prone skin—the color options (sage, chartreuse, blush, terracotta, lavender, and peach) are ridiculously fun. Available as a single standard or a pair, these pillowcases are a supereasy and quick way to zhuzh up your bedding or do a color refresh here and there. Something to keep in mind: The brand recommends turning the pillowcase inside out and ironing or steaming on low heat to avoid wrinkles and revive the silk’s luster. 

Best Silk: Slip Zippered Pillowcase

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Material: Mulberry silk | Machine washable: Yes | Hypoallergenic: Yes | Sizes: Queen, king

Why we chose it: A popular pick from a brand that has been refining its silk for more than a decade. 

If you’re a beauty buff, you’ve likely heard of Slip: It has won more than 50 awards in the editorial space and beyond, making it one of the best manufacturers of silk pillowcases for skin. The brand’s best-selling pillowcase, made with what it calls Slipsilk, purportedly creates 43 percent less friction than widely available cotton pillowcases with a similar thread count. The company claims that this allows skin to glide on the surface, which can reduce pressure, stretching, and tugging on your skin—all in addition to the breathable benefits of silk. Designer Ariel Orkin, founder of Ariel Okin Interiors, is a fan of the Slip pillowcase herself. She recommends going with the ivory or cream options to blend in with your bed (unless you’ve got a more colorful setup).

Best Luxe: Frette Ajour Pillowcase Set

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Material: 100 percent cotton | Machine washable: Yes | Hypoallergenic: Yes | Sizes: Standard, king

Why we chose it: If you’re going to splurge on a pillowcase set, make it skin-friendly.

“White is a good color choice that works well for both design and function, especially with cotton, silk, and linen bedding,” says Matthew Malin, cofounder of Malin + Goetz. High-end bedding company Frette is his pick for cotton—which, as a natural fiber, is gentle and “allows your skin to remain cool, reducing sweat and bacteria caused from buildup and dirt on your bedding.” This luxe pillowcase set will elevate any bedding assortment. A good rule of thumb from Malin: “If your white pillowcase does not look white, then it needs to be washed!”

Best Bamboo: Sunday Citizen Premium Bamboo Pillowcase Set

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Material: 100% viscose from bamboo | Machine washable: Yes | Hypoallergenic: Yes | Sizes: Standard, king

Why we chose it: An eco-conscious option that’s equally silky smooth.

Bamboo fabric is both sustainable and ideal for acne-prone skin, Lortscher says. This moisture-absorbing pillowcase set is antimicrobial, which may help avoid bacteria buildup on the surface that can contribute to breakouts. It comes in nine soothing neutrals and pastels (we love the blush and sage), and the simple, crisp-looking design can be layered into any assortment of pillows already at home on your bed. Reviews for the pillowcase (and linens in general) rave about how soft the fabric is, too. 

Best Low-Maintenance: Déjà Cotton Pillowcase

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Material: 100% cotton sateen | Machine washable: Yes | Hypoallergenic: N/A | Sizes: Queen, king

Why we chose it: A genius shortcut to keep your pillowcase clean, night after night. 

A simple thing to help your skin while you snooze? Keeping your pillowcase clean. Déjà’s clever design allows you to do just that—all while doing less laundry. This pillowcase comes with four cotton sateen “pages” on each side, secured with a ribbon, so that each evening you can “turn the page” for a fresh pillowcase. You get eight nights of a clean surface to sleep on, which is notable when you consider that experts recommend washing your pillowcase every two to three days. Less laundry, cleaner bed.

How We Chose These Products

To start, we looked to skin-care experts, including board-certified doctors and brand founders, to help us understand how different materials can affect skin. And since design is our expertise, we spoke with designers, too, who weighed in on choosing a skin-friendly shell that adds a sense of luxury, a clean look, or a dose of color to your bedroom. Material was the most important factor in our search—from both a function and design perspective—when it came to finding the best pillowcases for acne. 

Our Shopping Checklist

Material and Feel

Choosing the best pillowcases for acne is all about the material. When it comes to skin health, silk, satin, lightweight cotton, and bamboo are your best bet. “It’s really important to look for pillowcases that are made of soft, hypoallergenic materials that are breathable,” says Beraho. “Breathable fabrics help decrease sweat, oils from the hair and face, and skin-care products from incubating in the pillowcase—which leads to bacterial growth.” Lortscher recommends choosing an option that is made with 100 percent natural, nonsynthetic fibers like cotton, silk, or bamboo. 

Size

You don’t want to end up with pillowcases that don’t actually fit your favorite pillow or look disproportionate to the rest of your bedding, so size—standard versus king or queen—is important to check before hitting “purchase.” 

Care and Maintenance

Keeping your pillowcase clean is (unsurprisingly) a great way to ward off acne-exacerbating bacteria. With that, choose a pillowcase that’s machine washable for convenience purposes. “Make sure that the washing instructions are easy to follow,” says Okin. “The point of silk [and other skin-friendly materials] is to treat your skin and hair kindly, so making sure that it’s machine washable will help maximize the effectiveness of the pillowcase.” 

Ask Domino

Q: How often should I change my pillowcase? 

More often than you think: Some experts recommend two to three times a week. “In general, it’s a good idea to change it once a week at minimum—and more often if you sweat a lot,” says Lortscher. 

Q: Are my sheets making me break out? 

The short answer: They may not be helping the situation. “In theory, pillowcases with a layer of sweat, oil, and product residue from your face, hair, and body could possibly contribute to breakouts,” says Lortscher. It’s important to note that this isn’t a proven connection—but the thinking is that anything that involves increased sweating or moisture may increase breakouts. 

Q: What else should I consider for my bedtime routine?

Keeping everything as clean as possible is key, and Malin and Andrew Goetz of Malin + Goetz recommend washing your bedding with nonirritating detergents. “We avoid perfumed detergents and look for gentle or sensitive skin detergents for our bedding,” says Malin. Additionally, you can give your skin a boost by staying consistent with a simple nightly skin-care routine, Lortscher advises. 

The Last Word

The bottom line: Material matters, and while it’s probably not the sole scapegoat for your most recent breakout, having the right sleep surface may help avoid your next, which is where the best pillowcases for acne come in handy. 

The post Frette Makes One of the Best Pillowcases for Acne, Plus 6 Other Brands We Love appeared first on domino.

For Lily Kwong, an herb garden isn’t just a means to a delicious salad. “Before we had CVS and Whole Foods, the forest and the jungle were our apothecaries, our medicine cabinets, our beauty cabinets,” the Los Angeles–based landscape artist points out. Desert marigolds make great fabric dye. Sage is known for its grounding fragrance. Rosemary can be turned into a memory-boosting tincture. “Whether or not you really believe that a certain flower essence is going to help you neutralize grief or find courage, it’s a Pavlovian reminder to connect to that energy,” Kwong adds. In fact, as her new trio of garden projects with JW Marriott proves, you don’t have to harvest anything and you can still reap a plot’s benefits.

“You could use a plant as an object of meditation,” she says. “Take it in, listen. Use it as a tool to sharpen your intuition, your concentration, your mind.” So while the installations will certainly be experimental playgrounds for the properties’ chefs and spa technicians, their primary purpose is simply to encourage passersby to pause, whether to marvel at the plants’ sculptural silhouettes, heady herbaceous scent, or even feel and taste—gently crushing a stem or nibbling on a leaf is very much allowed.

“A garden is a conversation,” Kwong notes, and at the Desert Springs Resort & Spa project (the other two gardens can be found at the Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa and Essex House New York properties), an exchange can stretch long into the afternoon thanks to the sinuous benches that Kwong’s team built right into the limestone and stucco planters. 

On an otherwise unassuming thoroughfare on the shore of the property’s famous lakes, the two kidney bean–shaped structures erupt with native species like milkweed (a remedy for headaches), prickly pear cactus (high in potassium and calcium), and, yes, four types of soothing sage (try steeping them in water for tea). Although the olive trees that dot an undulating path to the nearby spa are still young, Kwong envisions them being another place to sit and reflect in the shade as they grow up to 20 feet tall.

If Kwong’s work has you itching to pick up a trowel, she swears there are also plenty of meditative experiences to be had in your own backyard. “You know, I used to do several thousand–square-foot installations for thousands of people, and then I had a 4-by-4 vegetable bed,” she says, looking back on the COVID-19 lockdown. “I was super-upset, but then I found just as much expansiveness and information by coming to that little plot.” Here, she offers a few words of advice for growing a personal sensory herb garden.

Go Grocery Shopping

Many of the plants in the JW Marriott gardens, like sage (Desert Springs’s signature herb), rosemary (Orlando’s), and mint (New York’s), are available at your local Trader Joe’s. Even better, these varieties are superhardy—the first two, for example, need watering only every couple of weeks. “They can handle an amateur gardener,” says Kwong.

Spread Out

If you’re backyard-less, Kwong suggests a container garden like the one she has off her kitchen—just make sure to plant each of your herbs in separate vessels. Certain ones, like mint, are quick to take over close neighbors.

Match Your Pots to Your Plants

After testing a bunch of swatches, Kwong’s team landed on coating the Desert Springs planters a barely there green. “I got this sage booklet at one of the nurseries that somebody passionately made, and I became really excited because it does well in the desert. We mimicked the color of it,” Kwong explains.

Medium Cecilia Ficonstone Planter, West Elm ($161 was $179)

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XL Botanical Family Set by Hay, Design Within Reach ($55)

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Don’t Be Afraid to Fail

“People feel like if they’ve killed a plant, they’re a bad person or they’ve done something wrong,” says Kwong. “But that’s the way you learn, by trial and error.”

The post A Few Non-Culinary (But Just as Practical) Uses for Your Herb Garden appeared first on domino.

Small rituals make home a place for rest and rejuvenation. In The Wind Down: Day to Night, presented by Lincoln, we explore the wellness routines of people we admire. Because it’s the little moments throughout the day that make us feel our best—and stress-free.

Partners in life and work, Isabella Wood-Mignone and Aldo Mignone are the duo behind Studio Mignone, an Australia-based design firm that specializes in sculptural furniture, objects, and art. Together the couple creates limited-edition pieces using materials like terrazzo, marble, and concrete, including the iconic Tavolo Morbido table you’ve definitely seen on Instagram. 

Since days in the workshop can be long and stressful, off-hours are for spending quality time with their daughter, Valentina (lovingly called Vally), playing lots of music on their record player (or through Aldo’s favorite Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX headphones), and cooking up a hearty meal. “Wellness is all about good food, good people, and taking the time (if you can afford it) to do something nice for yourself,” says Aldo. Here’s how they put that into practice.

But first, coffee: I am a coffee-first-thing-in-the-morning person. It is probably the strongest sense of ritual for me in my life. I will never skip it because it’s easy, instant gratification, and since I generally never wake up feeling “ready to face the day,” it’s the perfect morning vice. For me, coffee is a double shot topped up with soy milk, then microwaved for 30 seconds because I’m too lazy to do steamed milk most mornings. —Isabella

I take my coffee black, no sugar. We buy beans from the supermarket and have a grinder next to our little manual DeLonghi espresso machine. Sometimes I’ll do the American drip coffee on this cool pink Moccamaster coffee machine Isabella bought. Then we’ve got a whole pot to last all morning. —Aldo

La Specialista Espresso Machine with Sensor Grinder & Dual Heating System, De’Longhi ($800)

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Press play: We often play classical music vinyl on our old record player in the mornings to set a good tone for the day. It is calming and also something fun that isn’t digital—and not a screen—for Valentina. —Isabella

We recently fixed an old record player we got at an auction. I love giving my collection of records a spin once Vally goes to bed. There’s Vangelis, Roy Ayers, Dionne Warwick, James Brown, Weather Report, Donald Byrd, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, Van Morrison, Gladys Knight and the Pips. Oh, and we recently ordered a pink vinyl of Khruangbin’s Mordechai—I’m very excited for its arrival. —Aldo

Quick release: Lucky for us, we work next door to our studio, so we have the pure luxury of using any time that would be spent commuting to get extra sleep, do some work, or finish household chores before the day hits. To de-stress and stay calm in the middle of the workday, I’ll step outside for a minute, sit in a chair, tilt my face up toward the sun—I might even undo the top button of my shirt to let a little sun on my face and neck—and just breathe. —Isabella

I prefer any kind of physical or mental release: I’ll go for a run or even a walk around the block, and do a meditation or some push-ups —Aldo

Tavolo Morbido with Multi-Colored Pillars, Studio Mignone

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Shades of green: We love our plants. I want to spend every dollar I have on nice plants in pots, both indoors and outdoors. Our place isn’t huge, but we like to put a plant here and there where we can, provided the light is there. There are a lot of pretty gardens around our neighborhood, and we live across the road from a good plant nursery, so I like to think that plant life has some sort of calming effect. Engaging in gardening is really lovely—it’s spring here now, so we’ve just planted basil and chilies. —Aldo

Rituals of love: Nighttime is time spent together as a family with our daughter. We leave work at the studio and focus on the joys of life, which are cooking dinner, talking to one another, eating together, and relaxing. A little ritual I have with my daughter is after her bath and pajamas are on, but before we read stories, we will have our little chats, when we talk about our day or anything on our minds. I think wellness is about having the ability to find pleasure and fulfillment in the moments life presents you. —Isabella

One of the things I love doing to unwind is cooking. Italian crooners in the background (think: Tony Bennett on the speaker) and good old-fashioned pasta. I love tagliatelle ragu with a bottle of our homemade pasta sauce, slow-cooked beef, bay leaves from mum’s garden, and maybe a glass of wine with my wife. Some cheese, olives, or crusty bread? Forget about it. Now I’m hungry. I love the sound of the stove, onions frying, sauce bubbling (but not too much that it will burn). Eating the food is really only half of it for me. —Aldo

Limited-Edition Pillow Cover in Iceberg, Oosel ($105)

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Take the plunge: I love an evening bath, especially in cold weather or when I’m feeling run-down and need a recharge. Pair that with a prebath, full-body dry brushing, which is great for lymphatic drainage, and it’s the best combo. Sometimes I like to throw in a 1-kilogram bag of Epsom salts—the magnesium is good for tired muscles. Apart from that, baths are not a fancy affair for me. I don’t use any oils, candles, or anything like that. —Isabella

Sleep on it: I love the feeling of going to bed freshly bathed, with warm skin and body, and getting into my favorite silk pajamas. They are made locally by the wonderful Öösel and are pure heaven! We invested in a new mattress last year, and oh boy, was it worth it; we chose an ultra-plush king bed made by AH Beard. I also invested in high-quality cotton sheets, but I have a silk pillow slip also made by Oosel on my side of the bed. You know, to keep my face and hair crease-free. —Isabella 

Our new mattress is so incredibly plush. We realized how important it is to get a good night’s sleep after becoming parents and not really sleeping properly for a year (maybe longer—not totally sure). One pillow with a little bit of a thin sheet loosely covering me is how I like to sleep; I get quite warm at night. —Aldo

The post A Perfect Night for the Studio Mignone Founders Is Some Good Ragu and Tony Bennett appeared first on domino.

Small rituals make home a place for rest and rejuvenation. In The Wind Down: Day to Night, presented by Lincoln, we explore the wellness routines of people we admire. Because it’s the little moments throughout the day that make us feel our best—and stress-free.

Opening a brick-and-mortar retail space is never a small feat—particularly when it comes in the middle of a global pandemic. But last July, Telsha Anderson did what felt near impossible and launched t.a., a concept store in downtown Manhattan that’s self-described as “catering to the women-identifying community in New York City.” There you’ll find clothing by Christopher John Rogers and Theophilio and shoes by Brother Vellies and Reike Nen, alongside photo books by Tyler Mitchell and Antwaun Sargent and indie style magazines.

To make sure that each day runs as smoothly as possible, Anderson gets an early start; she wakes up at 7, has some tea, and catches up on reality TV (usually the latest episode of Real Housewives, any city, which she probably missed the night before). Afterward she gets ready to spend hours among products she’s carefully sourced from around the globe—items that, in her own words, present a renewed outlook on luxury living. And that’s something she tries to live by daily.

Fresh start: I usually shower around 9 or 9:30 every morning. I use Dove soap and Eve Lom on my face, and for my hair, it’s a mix of Pattern Beauty and TPH by Taraji.

Deluxe Shower Bundle, Pattern Beauty ($126 was $141)

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Listen to your heart: Wellness starts inward before it can be expressed outwardly—and by inward, I mean spiritually and mentally. I look to prayer, and singing and dancing while leaving the house to a really good Drake song. In my opinion, what keeps the store environment calm (aside from the big windows!) is the music that I play while I’m there. 

Shopgirl: I’m usually at my store 24-7. I have a pink table in the center of the space where I take meetings, answer emails, and brainstorm. When building the store out, I made sure it was a relaxing environment that could obviously be used for selling clothing, but also as an “open” office. Whenever I need a mini break, I step outside and sit on the front steps and soak in the sun. That’s been working for the summer, but I’m not sure what my winter routine will be yet.

t.a. x Yowie Collaborative Art Sculpture, t.a. ($75)

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Support system: The most stressful part of opening the store was the uncertainty—and it still is. There’s a lot about being a business owner that can’t be predicted, and to manage my nerves, I pray a lot and surround myself with people who share the same mindset that I do. When we opened, I had (and still have) an amazing support system, and making sure I make time for them, and myself, is important.

On schedule: Google Calendar saves my life each and every day. I make sure that all of my work events, meetings, and appointments are scheduled so that my “free time” can truly feel like it belongs to me. 

Diamond Stitched Duvet Cover Set, Parachute Home ($289)

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Date night: I usually look to my husband to help me “get out of my funk.” We’ll either go on a date or find something fun and random to do. We most recently went to EN Japanese Brasserie after an event and had an amazing evening. Another place we frequent is Planta. And he recently had me accompany him on a trip to a rock climbing gym while he was on a project in Philadelphia, and I loved it! We’ve been a few times since and I can’t wait to go back. 

Do not disturb: On my nightstand, you’ll find my wedding band and a glass of water (my go-to drink is warm water with lemon and extra (extra!) honey). I’m still learning to unplug, and lately I’ve been leaving my phone to charge in the bathroom. I’ve almost started to forget it’s there.

Washable Silk Fringe Slip Dress, Lunya ($248)

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Plush life: A full Parachute bed is my go-to, from the covers to the mattress itself. My husband and I love about six pillows on the bed—options! For pajamas, I’ve been wearing a lot of Lunya. Its silk fabric is the best in the game.

The post How to Maintain a Work-Life Balance When You Run New York’s Coolest Clothing Store appeared first on domino.