It must have been May or June when Getaway first popped up on my radar. Their tiny cabins nestled in nature were instantly appealing to my boyfriend, Aaron, and I – we’re not very outdoorsy, but loved the idea of getting off the grid for even an evening and were thrilled that dogs are welcome. We’d originally planned for a trip timed to the changing leaves in autumn, but life intervened and we weren’t able to make it happen. Lucky for us, Getaway reached out last month to see if we wanted to try out their Beaver Creek outpost in Ohio that’s only a short 35 minute drive from our house.

Our overnight trip was scheduled for early December, the perfect time to sneak away during the holiday hustle. (Also, part of my plan to not over-stress this month!) In the weeks leading up to our visit, Getaway kept us updated regularly, from confirming our reservation to what necessities were provided to which cabin we’d been assigned to the morning of.

Getaway Beaver Creek includes 26 mini cabins grouped together, but you’d never know there were so many. One of the first things we noticed upon arrival were the earthen mounds built up in between cabin to add an extra layer of privacy, as well as the fact that the other guests were respectfully quiet.

When we pulled up to our cabin – Catherine – we immediately felt welcome and like they got us, right down to the dog tether tied around one leg of the picnic table. The mini cabin itself was sleek and minimal from the outside with no extra frills, but with that setup and the view none were needed. The Adirondack chairs spread around the fire pit wouldn’t get used on our December visit, but I don’t think we were inside the door before starting to talk about a return trip during nicer weather.

Our dog-friendly cabin (don’t worry, there are designated dog-free cabins as well!) had two queen size beds, one lofted above the other. If you’re at all familiar with Getaway, you’ve likely seen photos of the gigantic window that’s part of every cabin, and I promise it did not disappoint in the slightest. Our two dogs – Piper and Bebe – were especially impressed, as you’ll see.

The locks to the doors use touch pads, you’ll receive your code a few hours before arrival along with your cabin’s name. All of the cabins are named after people significant to Getaway’s crew, we were assigned Catherine.

This is what awaited us on the other side of that door, a small yet incredibly organized space that didn’t feel cramped. To the left were the two beds, a small table with two chairs, and a built-in bench along the side of the bottom bed. And yes, even a landline for emergencies.

Straight ahead was this well-appointed kitchen that included a small refrigerator, two burner cooktop, and sink with potable water. Along with a kettle, dishes, bowls, cups, mugs, one pot, one pan, and other kitchen tools, there were also various provisions available for purchase that had clearly been chosen with care. Under the sink we found two bowls for the dogs and poop bags, plus paper towels and a small garbage can.

To the right was a small bathroom with a standard toilet, shower stall with shampoo and conditioner, and a first-aid kit. There were fold down hooks both here for towels and behind the front door for jackets, leashes, etc. The bathroom had a narrow shelf on one wall to accommodate toiletries as well as clean white towels stacked up ready and waiting.

The little touches went a long way, like this welcome folder and the s’mores kit awaiting us on the table. Included inside were the outpost’s general rules and regulations, local necessities, and important wildlife precautions. There was also a map, inspiration and ideas for your escape, postcards, and a set of mini colored pencils.

Cell reception in the area wasn’t great to begin with (we weren’t expecting it to be), but if you really want to test yourself and get away from technology there’s a handy Cellphone Lockbox at the ready.

We played music over a small but fantastic Tivoli speaker. Above it sat a small selection of books just right for the low-key environment, along with cards and dice.

A USB-charged camping lantern hung to the side of each bed that could be used as a reading lamp, a nightlight, or carried outside to the picnic table/fire pit area. We also loved that the outlet included USB ports for charging devices when necessary.

Piper and Bebe were obsessed with exploring “the woods” and keeping watch outside of the cabin’s windows. The dark shades came in handy not only during the night, but when they spied a neighboring dog they wanted to say hello to! Each cabin is equipped with both heat and AC, and it was pleasantly warmer than our 119 year old house. The sheets were soft and cozy, the duvet nice and heavy, and the pillows so comfortable (this, coming from a pillow snob). Piper was an especially big fan of the Pendleton wool blanket at the foot of the bed. The pups were so relaxed afterwards that they slept the entire way home as well as throughout the next day.

We ended up setting their dog beds on the large ledge next to the bed when it came time to sleep, and they loved it. It was also a nice spot to lounge and acted as a nightstand.

Dinner was pasta we’d brought from home and cooked there – the pot provided even had a built-in strainer in the lid. Like I said, they really considered and thought of just about everything. (We did forget the pasta sauce and had to make a run to the local grocery, which we knew about thanks to the info they’d provided in our welcome folder.) For breakfast we made some protein pancakes with mix we’d carried along. Aaron enjoyed coffee from the provisions – a one time use, disposable, recycled, pour over bag – while I enjoyed mint tea from home.

Like I mentioned above, we loved the location as well as the drive time to Beaver Creek. All of the mini cabins were organized around this grove of beautiful trees, and we really lucked out with some of the most beautiful weather the area had seen in a few weeks. Getaway has partnered with One Tree Planted to plant a new tree for every cabin that’s booked – so far they’re at +8,500 trees!

I really don’t get much more relaxed than this! And we really are already planning a return trip, there’s a loyalty program in place – The Getaway Often Club – and if you spend seven nights the eighth is free. And as a special treat Getaway has setup a $25 off code – DESIGNCRUSH25 – for you to take advantage of! Whether you’re already looking for a post-holiday wind down or thinking ahead to summer, I highly recommend the Getaway experience.

This post sponsored by Getaway. Thank you for supporting the brands that help Design Crush create fresh content!

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This spring we’ve been tackling typical outdoor projects around the house. Flowerbeds weeded and mulched? Check. Patchy spots in the backyard filled in? Yes. Wooden patio set coated in protective polyurethane? Done. Now I’ve started setting my sights on something a bit more ambitious – the decks.

When I bought my home both the upper and lower decks were painted a dark brown in the hopes of mimicking rich wood tones, but they failed and the paint has slowly been chipped and washed away. We’ve powerwashed them and considered re-staining, but at this point the wood may be too weathered for it to make much of a difference. That’s when TimberTech showed up on my radar. Their composite decking has been designed for high-performance and beauty, engineered to last longer than other wood alternatives, and with the most natural hardwood look.

I’m not the most ardent at taking on outdoor tasks, so much of the initial appeal of TimberTech’s capped PVC decking – both in the core and on the surface – is in how easy it is to maintain while remaining sustainable. It resists mold and mildew, is long-lasting with a great warranty, and has unlimited design potential. TimberTech’s sturdy, wood-like texture comes in vibrant colors and diverse grain options to match whatever look you’re aiming for.

One of the most exciting recent advancements is TimberTech AZEK’s Multi-Width Decking. Their Vintage Collection Deck and Porch boards give you loads of flexibility in dimension, style, color, and pattern by offering board sizes in multiple widths – standard, narrow, and wide. Go ahead and create a decking design that is uniquely yours and make a real statement by mixing and matching.

TimberTech is so easy to work with that you can make it a do-it-yourself deck project, or hire a contractor and forget about it. The boards are engineered to age very well, and the colors are even backed by a 50-year limited fade and stain warranty. Choose from palette ranging from rich browns to grays and natural hardwoods like mahogany. The profile of every board has a solid feel under your feet, much like traditional decking but better because the sturdy capping repels scratches, dents, and even insects. Your TimberTech composite deck can take just about anything!

Clockwise from left: Azek Vintage Collection in Coastline, Azek Vintage Collection in Mahogany, Azek Harvest Collection in Brownstone, Azek Arbor Collection in Hazelwood

Take advantage of the outdoor real estate that’s at your fingertips and extend the indoors out. That also speaks to your interior style – carry the colors and patterns you use in your home out onto your deck with throw pillows, lanterns, and furniture for a cohesive feel that carries throughout. Make your deck and your outdoor space an entertainment hub that you can enjoy all summer long!

Design an outdoor space that perfectly captures your personal style. TimberTech makes finding inspiration easy – you can check out their Instagram gallery or if you’re chomping at the bit to start planning now, use their three-step process for choosing the right deck. You can even order free samples right here. I can speak firsthand to how solid the boards are and just how beautiful the wood tones look. TimberTech is shaping the future of decking with the use of recycled materials, conservation practices, and a new state-of-the-art recycling plant, and I’m looking forward to hopefully making it a part of my home.

Clockwise from top: Azek Vintage Collection in Coastline, Azek Vintage Collection in Mahogany, Azek Harvest Collection in Brownstone, Azek Arbor Collection in Hazelwood

TimberTech AZEK Arbor Collection in Brownstone

TimberTech AZEK Vintage Collection Mahogany

TimberTech AZEK Vintage Collection Mahogany

TimberTech AZEK Vintage Collection in Coastline

TimberTech AZEK Vintage Collection in Coastline

TimberTech AZEK Arbor Collection in Hazelwood

This post is sponsored by TimberTech. As always, all words and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that keep Design Crush creating fresh content!

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Nothing has ever kicked my butt into Spring Cleaning Mode like my boyfriend moving in being on the horizon. But I’m already getting ahead of myself because, well, I’m not a great housekeeper. Everything is tidy for the most part, but when it’s just me there are definitely dishes in the sink and little tumbleweeds of dog hair in the corners of the living room. I’ve had about two months to prepare for A’s arrival and it was filled by lists of to-dos, but the timing coincided with me accepting a new job and I think I maybe crossed off three things. What it comes down to is that my time is valuable because it doesn’t seem like there’s as much as there used to be – I value things that help me take advantage of what there is.

While we’re a ways out from doing any major kitchen updates, I’ve long wanted to research some projects like refinishing the cabinetry. N-Hance Wood Refinishing products are designed specifically for cabinets rather than walls and very durable as you can see after I put some samples to the test with both sandpaper and a hammer! (See the results below.) Their products are low VOC for a healthier kitchen remodel and cured with UV light for an immediate smooth, rock-hard finish. They can color match anything and going this route is a lot more affordable than traditional remodeling, leaving more money for things like countertops and appliances.

As I mentioned, vacuuming is far from my favorite chore and something I really struggle to carve out time for. (Which really isn’t cool because I have five pets!) I’ve always been a little leery of robotic vacuums because they almost seem too good to be true. Would it be loud? Would it really get those dog hair tumbleweeds out of the corners? Would it suck up the fringe on my rugs? No, yes, and not if you fold them under first. At least that’s been my experience with the ECOVACS DEEBOT 600 which can tackle both bare floors and carpets with ease and bounces off of obstacles without causing any damage. It’s smarthome compatible, so I can fire it up from just abut anywhere either by using the app, the remote, or my Google Home (it works with Amazon, too). I was nervous the debris container wouldn’t be large enough to hold all of that aforementioned pet hair, but was pleasantly surprised to find I only need to empty it once after cleaning the entire first floor. This is definitely the closest I’ll come to living like the Jetson’s!

Dishes are quite possibly the chore I’m worst at. I do have a dishwasher that’s quite new, but it needs serviced so I’ve been washing them the old-fashioned way – by hand. Sponges aren’t my favorite because of all the bacteria they can harbor and the smells that come along with it, so I was really looking forward to trying out the Scrub Daisy by Scrub Daddy. This dishwand has an interchangeable system of cleaning heads that are uniquely shaped to scrub various shaped objects (think baby bottles, baking pans, etc). The ergonomic handle dispenses soap while you clean and the valet that comes with it all holds the pieces and self-drains. (Get $1 off any Scrub Daddy product here and try it for yourself!)

What products are you loyal to or looking for to make taking care of your household easier?

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Our phones are practically part of our wardrobes at this point, so it only makes sense that you would want a case that reflects your own personal style aesthetic. I’ve used phone cases from so many companies over the years, and the latest I’ve put to the test are from CASETiFY. I’m clumsy, I even managed to crack off a corner of Apple’s own silicone case, so when I say “test” you can believe it’s true. After a few weeks of use I can vouch for these guys, the side bumpers are especially tough which I love. Almost as much as I love the vast selection and customization options. Customize the heck out of one of their cases or go even further and design your own. CASETiFY is the leading artist-based community in the tech realm, which I’m happy to share and support – to be honest, it’s what sent me their way in the first place.

CASETiFY’s latest collaborative collection is with Amsterdam-based illustrator Bodil Jane, who I’m a longtime fan of. Her playful designs are available for both your phone and your Apple Watch. I went with the Eyes design, it allows the color of your phone to show through as the background and the eyes have the slightest bit of texture to them.

Bodil shares, “To celebrate the arrival of Spring, I wanted to incorporate lots of plants and nature-inspired designs, mixed into a collection full of playful colors. Much of the inspiration comes from my collection of antique botanical books. I wanted the collection to feel fresh, light and like something everyone wants to carry around all spring and summer. I’m really happy with the outcome!”

You just can’t go wrong with a clean marble look, seen here in minimal white. After having a few cases that were made of actual marble, which I promptly damaged, this looks just like the real deal and doesn’t weigh nearly as much.

This Neon Sand case will be going on my phone as soon as summer makes an appearance. The collection is available in four colors (VIP berry/violet seen here) and has some customization available that I opted out of. It’s a nice stress reliever to watch the sand move around the case and get this – it glows in the dark! If that doesn’t say SUMMER FUN, I’m not sure what does.

I received product from CASETiFY in exchange for this post. Thank you for supporting the brands that help keep Design Crush creating fresh content! You can also check out their exclusive collections with Nordstrom and Anthropologie.

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Collages with a vintage feel, created with periodicals from the 1940s and 50s. Emilia Elfe‘s mixed media works are comprised of carefully cutout jewels that are then reconfigured into her own style of cover model.

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Russian-born artist Olga Pokhodzey was focused solely on street photography before turning towards self-portraiture and creating the series seen here – Growing Up. Be sure to check out the rest of the series on her site.

“This series of self portraits is about relationships between people and things. Our surrounding objects were made for our comfort and designed to help us in everyday life and creative activities, but there is another side — sometimes we feel tied too tight with them, as if things appropriate us. I work from home, and sometimes spend 12–14 hours a day in front of my computer. In such periods I practically don’t walk out, and then I begin to complain to my friends about feeling like growing into my chair. I decided to show this metaphor literally. Besides the theme of ingrowth, this series is about envy for the essence of objects. Compared to the human body, things are more sustainable.”

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zickafoose by Misty Hughes

Les Dents De La Mer by Lars Botten

Great Sand, National Park Colorado by American Posters

ROSE 01 by Wit & Delight

Tigre by Landon Sheely

Bath by Blanca Gomez

Undercurrent by verso PRINTS

Anxiety Circle by Mr. Bingo

Skaters by Leah Reena Goren

Topo III by Real Fun, Wow!

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All it takes is imagination to redesign something that’s been taken for granted, like say a stick of chalk. Nikolas Bentel is ridiculously creative (he’s currently a resident at the New Museum design incubator program NEW INC.) and also ridiculously nice (I spent some time with him at ICFF last May). His ingenious Chalk Drawers are architectural drawing toys made of chalk, designed to create original patterns that are geometrically precise. The three drawers are designed to make dots, circles, or straight lines to give the user tools to create the three fundamental building blocks of drawing.

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Los Angeles-based Carlson Hatton is an artist as well as a full-time professor of art at Santa Monica College. His mixed media creations use acrylic, airbrush, watercolor, and graphite layered onto aluminum, paper, or wood to address the extinction of humankind’s ability to process imagery in a meaningful way.

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Thoroughly enamored with Alex Kanevsky‘s paintings, each one packed with more mysterious questions than the last. All of those hidden faces…

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