March 7, 2023
Note: I originally wrote this article for my friend Nick Gray’s blog, but I’m now reposting it here so you can see it on my site.
As a product designer who’s worked at Snapchat and founded Timehop, I’m obsessed with finding the perfect gear for my home.
Here’s my curated list of 23 items that have earned their place in my Los Angeles residence.
In this guide, you’ll discover:
- Tech gadgets that actually improve your daily workflow
- Bathroom upgrades that transform your routine
- Kitchen tools worth the investment
- Smart home solutions that make life easier
Full List
Here’s a quick index of all the items, 4 or 5 at a time.
I’ll also include each of them below if you keep scrolling.

1. Macbook Blockhead Right Angle Charger: website
2. CloudValley Magnetic Laptop Phone Holder: on Amazon
3. Popsocket Phone Wallet with Expanding Grip: on Amazon
4. SUPMEGA AirTag Hidden Bicycle Mount: on Amazon

5. PAUTIX Cob MicroLED Strip + Goldwin Dimmable Alexa Controller: Strip on Amazon, Controller on Amazon
6. AURAGLOW Uplight Wall Sconce + Philips Hue White Ambiance LED Bulb: Sconce on Amazon, Bulb on Amazon
7. Broadlink IR/RF Smart Home Hub works with Alexa & Google Assistant: on Amazon
8. Fisher Bullet Space Pen: on Amazon

9. Sleek Socket Ultra-Thin Outlet: on Amazon
10. Twelve South BookArc for MacBook: on Amazon
11. TOTO Toilet Electronic Washlet: on Amazon
12. EVRON Squat Toilet: on Amazon

13. Zenna Aluminum Curved Shower Curtain Rod: on Amazon
14. Listerine Ultraclean Access Snap-On Flosser: on Amazon
15. Cafhelp 2-Pack Tongue Scraper: on Amazon
16. Hearos Ear Plugs 28 Pair: on Amazon

17. Oxo Good Grips 12-inch Tongs with Silicone Head: on Amazon
18. ThermoPro Meat Thermometer: Instant on Amazon, Wireless on Amazon
19. Mercer Culinary Chef’s Knife: on Amazon
20. Estilo Premium Bamboo Salt Container + Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt: Box on Amazon, Salt on Amazon

21. Dill Pickle Popcorn Seasoning: on Amazon
22. Amish Country Popcorn: on Amazon
23. Trader Joe’s Rice Medley: on Amazon
Tech Essentials
Laptop Accessories
The Blockhead Right Angle Charger is a game-changer for my MacBook. It sits flat against the wall, perfect for tight spaces. Pair it with the CloudValley Magnetic Phone Holder for seamless Continuity Camera use.
Smart Home Must-Haves
My favorite setup includes:
- PAUTIX COB MicroLED Strip with Alexa control
- AURAGLOW Uplight Wall Sconce
- Broadlink IR/RF Hub for legacy device control
Pro tip: The Broadlink hub lets me create complex automations. When I say “Alexa turn on projector,” my entire entertainment system springs to life in sequence.
Bathroom Upgrades
Toilet Tech
The TOTO Electronic Washlet transformed my bathroom experience. For extra comfort, I added the EVRON Squat Toilet – sounds weird, works amazingly well.
Daily Essentials
Must-have items include:
- Curved shower rod for extra space
- Listerine Snap-On Flosser
- Cafhelp Tongue Scraper
- Hearos Ear Plugs
Kitchen Game-Changers
Cooking Tools
As someone who loves to cook, these are non-negotiable:
- OXO 12-inch Silicone Tongs
- ThermoPro Meat Thermometer
- Mercer Culinary Chef’s Knife
Popcorn Perfection
My secret combo:
- Amish Country Popcorn
- Dill Pickle Seasoning
- Coconut oil for cooking
Pro tip: Skip the microwave popcorn and go stovetop. The difference is incredible.
Quick Meals
Trader Joe’s Rice Medley is my go-to for perfect rice in 3 minutes. It’s indistinguishable from rice cooker results.
Conclusion
Key takeaways from my curated collection:
- Invest in smart home tech that creates automated routines
- Don’t overlook bathroom upgrades – they improve daily life
- Quality kitchen tools make cooking more enjoyable
- Sometimes the simplest solutions (like a curved shower rod) make the biggest impact
I’ve personally tested everything on this list in my home.
For notes on all of these items and a breakdown of many of the pieces, click here to read this on Nick’s website.