We received more than 600 messages describing design norms from around the world, and today we’re sharing some of the most interesting, popular, and unique responses. From different ways of sleeping and bathing to distinct laundry setups and, well, other household habits, listeners gave us a fascinating look at why homes vary so much across regions. I also offer a public apology to Sherry for a disagreement about cabinetry in the duplex kitchen, and we share an Instagram account that’s an instant pick-me-up worth following.
You can also find this episode on your favorite podcast app, like Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, TuneIn Radio, Stitcher, and Spotify.
What’s New
- If you missed our original disagreement about the duplex kitchen cabinetry, that discussion happened in Episode #120 from November. The show notes there include renderings that illustrate the options we were weighing.
- The image that caused most of the debate showed the mudroom as seen through the kitchen doors. At the time it was a rough idea, and our final order omitted the tall cabinet on the right side of the window because it would have made the space feel too narrow. In the end we ordered three base cabinets, each with three drawers (and doubled that since it’s a duplex).
- After deciding to swap closed storage for large three-tiered shelving units, we returned a stack of boxes along with extra toe kicks and hanging hardware. That return netted us over $2,000.
- We ended up using the Ypperlig open shelving units from Ikea at about $110 each. They’re more cost effective and make storage visible and obvious for weekly renters, who might otherwise miss that drawers can hold snacks or coolers. We paired the shelves with bins to keep small items contained and tidy.
- From the top you can see the shelves are made of lightweight metal slats—durable and easy to wipe clean. We already love how practical they are.
- We also appreciate the blonde wood accent on the shelves, which complements the kitchen cabinets on the opposite side.
Homes Around The World
- Thanks to UK listener Jo for suggesting this segment back in Episode #125 after our earlier episode about our preferred laundry room locations.
- We mentioned our old New York City apartments. Video tours of both are available on our site: one of Sherry’s Village apartment and another of my Upper West Side apartment. It’s funny to see footage Sherry shot long before we started blogging.
- Several listeners asked about the “Pittsburgh Potty” and similar regional oddities—there’s more coverage in news pieces and local histories if you want to dig deeper.
- Learning about Japanese onsen-style soaking tubs sent Sherry down a rabbit hole; now she’s set on adding a soaking tub when we renovate our bathroom. These tubs prioritize deep, restorative soaking over long baths.
- In warmer climates, decorative metal grates on doors are common because they allow breezes while maintaining security. We spotted several beautiful examples during our anniversary trip to Puerto Rico.
- Apartment Therapy published an informative article about Finnish dish-drying cabinets—simple, efficient, and ideal for smaller kitchens. They’re a smart way to air-dry dishes while keeping counters clear.
- The design podcast 99% Invisible has episodes that cover items we discussed, such as Finnish dish-drying cabinets and the Hills Hoist rotary clothesline, which is an iconic piece of suburban Australian culture.
- One interesting cultural tidbit: the drinking game tied to the Hills Hoist is popularly called “Goon of Fortune” in Australia. Regardless of the name, it’s a memorable phrase.
We’re Digging
- We’re currently enjoying Donté Colley’s Instagram videos for their uplifting, creative energy.
- I recently bought a nostalgic children’s book called “Oh, Were They Ever Happy!” It’s a charming story that includes a memorable sequence where children help paint a house while the parents are away.
- Other books we’re reading to our kids right now:
- Iggy Peck, Architect
- Story Pirates: Digging Up Danger
- Into The Town All Year ‘Round
- Richard Scarry’s Cars And Trucks And Things That Go
If you remember a topic we mentioned in a past episode but can’t recall which show notes to open, we keep a master list of everything we’ve featured in the “We’re Digging” segment. You can also find all the books we recommend on our Book Club page.
Finally, thanks to Agility Bed for sponsoring this episode. Use the code YHL at checkout to get $200 off any mattress.
Thanks for listening and for sharing your regional design stories—your contributions made this episode a global tour of home life. We love hearing how different cultures and climates shape the way people design and use their living spaces.
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