Thoughtful Home Decor, Honestly Curated
I'm Tereza Hower, a home decor enthusiast and curator who has spent years helping friends, family, and now thousands of readers create beautiful, functional living spaces. What started as a personal passion for thoughtful design has evolved into Curated by Hower, a resource for people who want quality home furnishings without the designer price tag.
No Fancy Credentials — Just Real Experience
Unlike many home decor blogs, I don’t have a design degree or industry certifications. Instead, I bring something I think is more valuable: real-world experience. Over the years, I’ve personally furnished and refurnished multiple homes, tested hundreds of products in real living spaces, and learned what actually works versus what just looks good in photos.
I’ve experienced the frustration of buying furniture that looked perfect online but felt cheap in person. I’ve learned which fabrics hold up with kids and pets. I’ve discovered which “budget” pieces are genuinely worth it and which premium items aren’t worth the price tag. These hard-won lessons are what I share on Curated by Hower.
I believe that great design starts with real life. The sofa that looks stunning in a styled photo isn’t always the one that survives a family movie night. The coffee table that wins design awards isn’t always the one that works in a small apartment. I focus on finding pieces that are beautiful and functional because your home has to work for the life you actually live.
Real-World Experience
The knowledge behind every recommendation comes from years of hands-on learning, not a classroom.
How I Test Products
Every product goes through this process before it earns a recommendation on this site.
Deep Research
I read thousands of customer reviews, compare specs, and research brand reputation, looking for patterns in what people actually say.
Personal Testing
I test items in real homes for weeks or months, evaluating durability, quality, comfort, and whether it solves the problem it promises to.
Honest Reviews
I share both pros and cons, including who each product is best for and any potential drawbacks. I don't hide the negatives.
Affiliate Transparency
I clearly disclose affiliate relationships. I earn a small commission, but I only recommend products I genuinely stand behind.
Regular Updates
I update recommendations as new products emerge and testing reveals new insights. What I recommend today might change tomorrow.
My Curation Philosophy
Only What I'd Buy Myself
Every recommendation on Curated by Hower comes from personal testing and real-world experience. I spend months researching products, reading thousands of customer reviews, and evaluating items before featuring them. If something doesn't meet my standards, it doesn't make the cut, no matter how good the commission.
The Full Picture, Always
Every product has trade-offs and I share them openly. I include the downsides because I want you to make an informed decision, not just a quick purchase. The "this is annoying but livable" details matter just as much as the highlights.
Real Life Over Aesthetics
I evaluate products the way you'll actually use them — with daily wear, kids, pets, spills, and the kind of life that happens around furniture. A product that only looks good in a styled photo doesn't earn a spot here.
Merit Over Commission
I make more money when you trust my recommendations and come back for more than I ever would from pushing low-quality products for a quick payout. Your trust is the foundation this entire site is built on.
What You'll Find Here
In-Depth Product Reviews
Thorough assessments covering quality, comfort, durability, and value, including who each product is best (and worst) for. I answer the questions you didn't know to ask.
Side-by-Side Comparisons
I don't just tell you one table is good. I show how it stacks up against alternatives at the same price point so you can choose what's right for your specific needs.
Budget & Premium Picks
Quality furniture exists at every price point. From $50 budget finds to $500 investment pieces, every pick is chosen with the same critical eye and tested against the same standards.
Buyer's Guides & Practical Advice
What size coffee table works for your space? Is "easy assembly" really easy? Will this fabric hold up to a golden retriever? Practical details that actually help you decide.
Affiliate Disclosure & Transparency
Full transparency: Curated by Hower uses affiliate links to support the site. When you purchase through these links, I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps me continue creating free, honest content.
Read the full Affiliate Disclosure Policy.
Let's Create Your Perfect Space
Whether you're furnishing your first apartment on a budget or investing in pieces that'll last a lifetime, I'm here to help you make informed decisions. Your home should be more than just furniture — it should be a reflection of you, built with pieces that work for your lifestyle and bring you joy every day.