Smart Home Upgrades

Elevate your home both inside and out with these hot buys for the kitchen, bathroom, and patio

From Joann Butler, editor-in-chief

July 23, 2025

If you’re one of the many right now looking to make some simple but fabulous upgrades to your home, we have the scoop on the hottest buys to take your home to the next level.

Let’s start in the bathroom — because yes, even that part of your day can be a luxurious experience with a bidet. But, not just any bidet you need a TOTO and their new NEXUS Washlet+ S5 Bidet Toilet and Washlet S2 Bidet Seat deliver a next-level bathroom experience.

If you get a TOTO bidet you are getting better hygiene, more comfort, and a spa-like vibe at home. They’re eco-friendly too, cutting energy use by up to 38%, and dramatically reducing toilet paper use.

With the touch of a button, you get a fabulous warm water cleanse instantly. Up to four people in your household can save their own settings, adjusting the temperature, water pressure, and spray pattern just how they like it. There’s even an oscillating spray feature. More than 60 million have been sold around the world which says a lot.

The wand is made of a special resin that resists buildup and cleans itself, inside and out, before and after each use. It also has an automatic deodorizer and a soft night light that turns on when you walk in the bathroom.

When paired with a TOTO Toilet, the cords and hoses are tucked away, clean look and clean feel. You can find the S5, S2, and other Washlet models at Amazon, Costco, Home Depot, Wayfair, and Lowe’s.

Now let’s talk countertops. Cosentino is a leader that is known for versatile, design-forward surfaces to elevate both indoor and outdoor spaces. I just had their Dekton Ultracompact surface installed for my outdoor kitchen in Salina Silverkoast and it’s just absolutely beautiful. 

What’s so special about it is that it has exceptional resistance to UV rays, stains and scratching — so it’s perfect for entertaining and high-traffic spaces like kitchens, patios, or bathrooms. It's also carbon neutral so an eco-conscious choice and has a 25-year warranty.

They have a ton of color options. The latest Dekton Trilium is inspired by volcanic stones, Dekton Bergen inspired by natural portobello stone and Dekton Marmorio which is inspired by a natural stone in Italy.

To find Dekton just head to Home Depot or go online to cosentino.com/usa.

Lastly, let's look at furniture. I’ve been a longtime fan of Frontgate, they just have everything you need to elevate your home, both indoors and out. I especially love their outdoor collections.

It’s all about bringing the beauty of indoor living outside, and Frontgate really gets that. Everything feels just as polished and comfortable as your living room—and that’s the key. It’s also all about the details. Their outdoor rugs, the carriage house lanterns (which come in all different sizes) to instantly add atmosphere.

Their pieces aren’t just beautiful—they’re built to last. The loveseat, for example, is made with all-weather wicker that can really withstand the elements. In my own backyard, I have a gorgeous teak dining table and chairs. The design is stunning, and the teak is mildew-resistant, so i don’t have to worry about it. The cushions are made with 100% solution-dyed fabric that resists mold, mildew, and fading—as a plus they’re easy to clean and comfortable.

And the best part, these pieces are so stylish and versatile, you could easily bring them indoors. 

You can shop in-store or online at frontgate.com.