Because even your dog crate deserves to be fabulous.
Some items are necessary evils—functional, sure, but about as attractive as a rusted radiator in July. (We’re looking at you, plastic laundry baskets, tangled power strips, and those clunky pet crates taking up half the living room.) Not everything in your home is a showstopper, right? Now it can be. The world of stylish home essentials has come a long way. Now, those so-called “ugly” items come in surprisingly chic, design-friendly versions that actually work with your space—not against it.
Here are our favorite unexpectedly cute household must-haves that bring both form and function:
Dog Crates That Deserve Compliments
Gone are the days of cold, cage-like crates clashing with your carefully curated space. Brands like WLO Store make gorgeous wood-look dog crates that double as side tables (yes, really). Etsy has options in rattan and even mid-century modern styles. Chewy and Home Depot now carry some that look like furniture and blend seamlessly with your decor.
Home Depot Dog Crate, $481.75
Trash Cans That Take the Trash Out of Trashy
We’ve all dealt with a grimy, plastic, pedal-operated nightmare. But now? You can get touchless stainless steel beauties, minimalist bins in matte black, or even decorative cans that look like ceramic vases. Brands like Simplehuman and Umbra get it—and make waste cans look… dare we say, beautiful ?
Simplehuman 58L Step Recycler in Matte Black, $220
Litter Boxes That Stay Under the Radar
Pet owners, rejoice: litter boxes have finally caught up with the rest of the 21st century. Think enclosed designs that resemble planters, benches, or even modern ottomans. Check out Tuft + Paw or Jfpet‘s MS! litter boxes for sculptural pieces that keep smells (and style crimes) at bay.
MS! Litter Box, $129
Air Purifiers That Look Like Sculptures
You need clean air—but you don’t need a big, buzzing box ruining your room’s aesthetic. Luckily, brands like Molekule, Dyson, and Coway offer quiet machines in soft neutrals, modern finishes, and even art-inspired cases. Think of them as the skincare of your apartment—totally essential and, now, beautifully designed.
Coway Airmega 250 Art Air Purifier, $499
Cords That Disappear (In a Good Way)
Nothing ruins a sleek setup faster than a web of cords. Enter design-forward cable organizers, color-matched power strips, and minimalist cord covers. We love BlueLounge for options that keep your tech in check—without becoming the main event.
BlueLounge Cable Box, $29
Drying Racks That Up the Chic Ante In the Kitchen
Ugly drying racks aren’t doing your kitchen any favors. Modern drying racks come in bamboo, powder-coated metal, or wood and steel hybrid designs that don’t scream college dorm. Check out Yamazaki Home for the aesthetic upgrade you didn’t know you needed.
Tosca Steel + Wood Dish Rack, $98 at Yamazaki Home
Cat Trees That Don’t Look Like Carpeted Nightmares
Say goodbye to the beige monstrosity in the corner. Cat towers have gone modern with wood finishes, neutral fabrics, and sleek lines that actually complement your furniture. Try Furr & Company, Tuft + Paw, or Catit’s Vesper trees for options that keep your cat climbing and your space stylish.
Furr & Company The Helix Cat Tree, $499.99
Toilet Brushes That Don’t Offend
Yes, we’re going there. Toilet brushes are a necessity—but they don’t have to be ugly. Minimalist ceramic holders, matte black or ecru finishes, and space-saving wall-mounted options are changing the game. Brands like Joseph Joseph have mastered the art of bathroom discretion.
Flex™ 360 Matt Ecru Toilet Brush, $35
Final Thoughts: It’s the Little Things
Stylish home essentials aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re about harmony. When the functional things in your home feel as intentional as your throw pillows or wall art, everything just clicks.
Need help curating a space that works and wows? Book a complimentary consultation with our design team. We know where to find the cute stuff—and how to make it all fit seamlessly into your style.
