If you’re a coffee fan who takes the home brew very seriously, you’re likely always on the hunt for new kinds of coffeemakers. These four tried-and-true options are longtime favorites of coffee lovers around the world, and best of all, they’re just as beautiful as they are functional.

1. The French Press. The class French press is a favorite for more than just the delicious coffee it produces. With its tall, cylindrical shape, elegant handle and its plunger at the top, this simple coffeemaker is also one of the most attractive. Modern versions come in stainless steel styles, geometric shapes and even eye-catching colors.
2. The Pour-Over. Many high-class cafes are adding pour-over brews to their menus, and you can create the same strong cup of coffee at home with an affordable pour-over dripper. These feature a triangular shape that fits a special filter right inside, and they’re often made of natural ceramic.
3. The Turkish Coffee Pot. Brass Turkish coffee pots look very elegant, and their long, angled handles are decorated with ornate designs that add an eclectic look to your stovetop.
4. The Stovetop Espresso Maker. Even the cappuccino fan can get in on the decorative coffeemaker action. Stainless steel stovetop espresso makers are common throughout European households, and they look truly charming sitting on your stove.

The Best Coffeemakers [Real Simple]
10 Pretty Coffeemakers for the Perfect Cup [Refinery 29]
10 Museum-Worthy Coffee Designs for Your Kitchen [Thrillist]

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr Jayson Leow

With its friendly service, premium espresso drinks, and impressive latte art, you’ll find a lot to love at Houston’s Catalina Coffee. Stop in to this local favorite for your morning java or an afternoon pick-me-up and you’ll instantly be hooked on the shop’s unique combination of hip atmosphere and friendly ambiance.

Prices are affordable when compared to similar coffee shops, and the menu of drip brews, strong lattes, and traditional cappuccinos are expertly crafted in a way that will impress even the most knowledgeable coffee lover. Pair your drink with a savory treat or a fresh baked pastry and start your day off on the right foot. There is ample parking outside of the cafe, and the convenient location in Houston’s arts district makes it an easy pit stop when you’re running errands or doing some shopping in the area.

Catalina Coffee is open 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays and 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekends.

Catalina Coffee
2201 Washington Avenue
Houston, TX 77007
(713) 861-8448
www.catalinacoffeeshop.com

While you may have heard of the clothing swap and the book swap, who says that you can’t swap everything that you frequently use? Swap parties are great ways to de-clutter your home while also recycling your unused items, and they’re mutually beneficial for everyone who attends. Now, how about a snack swap?

1. Decide what to swap. Consider things that you and your friends all use, such as clothing, shoes, books, kids' toys, and music.
2. Let your guests know what to make. If you don’t want to swap pre-used goods, host a food swap with items like soup or cookies. Just make sure to let your guests know well in advance so that they can get to cooking or baking.
3. Pick the right amount of people. Depending on the size of your home, you might want to narrow your invite list down to only a few people (just make sure that you invite at least five, or it won’t be much of a swap!).
4. Send an e-vite. In order to detail the instructions clearly, send all of your guests an email at least two weeks in advance.
5. Set up a swapping area. Clear out the swap room so that you have ample space to browse, and then make displays for the swappable items, such as tables or clothing racks.
6. Swap! Go around the room taking turns, or let your guests loose in a free-for-all swapping excursion.

How to Host a Swap Party [Real Simple]
How to Host a Clothing Swap Party – Rules & Ideas [Money Crashers]
Soup Swap Party [Soup Swap Party]

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr srqpix