Had I known a course like this was available, I would have taken it BEFORE I did my kitchen renovation. If you're interested, here's a link to receive $200 off your enrolment fee: www.theinteriordesigninstitute.ca/landing/referfriend/?code=referfriend&aid=referfriend&rid=217137 Original Review of The Interior Design Institute: th-cam.com/video/FOuJgdA-EK4/w-d-xo.html
I’m so happy we didn’t have enough money to do our kitchen when we rebuilt our house, that gave me the opportunity to live in the space (with our old cheap cabinets) and carefully study the layout before we spent a whole lot of money on a new kitchen, I spent a lot of hours watching videos like these to learn as much as I could before redoing our own... so thank you for sharing, your kitchen is beautiful!
My late 1930s house has a 10'9"x7'9" galley kitchen bounded by an exterior and thee load-bearing walls, 8'1" ceiling and YOU are complaining about a "really small space"? You have space for an island and a kitchen table, for crying out loud. My walk-through isn't wide enough for two people to pass without brushing each other. Get a friendly and curious Norwegian Elkhound n the mix..... I do agree on the counter-depth fridge, but that's because the wall where my fridge has to go is 34 1/2 inch long and cannot be modified. because the other side of the wall is the master bedroom closet. The case opening from the kitchen to the breakfast room is 27 1/2 inch wide and I'm hoping we can widen it to 36 inches wide, but that will encroach on the counters along the outside wall.
Not meant in a bad way, but that is not a small kitchen...But I guess its a culture thing? I live in Estonia, and my kitchen is considered small (1.7m times 1.9m) but your kitchen is considered above average size. That being said, its a lovely kitchen. I designed my onw as well, even though it is ikea, I love how it turned out.
@@iamloved the Ikea kitchen worked really well for a small space and I had to get kind of...inventive? I think is the word. But it is just me and my baby and it is just right. I also love the fact that I have everything in arms reach AND the high chair still fits in as well so I can cook with the baby.
Thank you. To me living in Europe the fridge is huge! I'm designing mine right now, so much to consider. Good point about the chairs and the dishwasher and oven close to each other. I think it looks really nice and timeless :)
For the knife-edged bar stools - Pick up some 1" dowel at your local box store and run a groove about 1/2" into one side, then glue the grooved dowel on top of the knife edge. Dowel is pretty inexpensive, and it might solve the problem without a big time commitment.
So easy to fix. Go to plumbing dept for pipe cover. It is foam tubing that is split. It is used to insulate pipes. It comes in a roll and is easy to cut with a scissors. Less than $20 . Will fit right over your foot rests. Why not paint your range hood black, and maybe the edges of your shelves too. Beautiful kitchen.
Great video! It’s interesting that most of these mistakes were functional. I think it’s easy to get so caught up in the look that don’t put enough thought into use. Design is form AND function. I feel like if I have to choose one or the other, functionality wins every time. Also regarding counter depth refrigerators, I have had more luck with the ones that have freezer on the bottom.
Oh my gosh I’m so grateful I’m not the only one that has had frustrations during a renovation! I’m almost done with my kitchen….finally but man did I learn things the expensive way!! Biggest lesson learned, always always always hire a professional to do the job!!! 😖
Excellent video Marisa! So many things seem like great ideas when we're dreaming online, but then you learn when you live with it! I really appreciate your willingness to share these things because it is tremendously helpful! Your kitchen is beautiful! Thank you for the tips!
This is a great video. And no, you are not complaining. We live in a century rural home. Re did the kitchen about 10 yrs ago, there is just the 2 of us, however, its a big kitchen ( we think ) but when friends gather, it's not. Many of my complaints are the same as yours!
It's amazing how much smaller a space feels when people are in it. Our entire main floor is open but it's only about 400 square feet or so. When people come over it feels sooooo crammed!
Counter depth fridges make total sense(you never lose track of things hiding and going out of date in the back). You just have to get as wide a model as you can afford, that makes sense in your layout. A female friend of ours hated the idea of outlets on the side of her new custom kitchen peninsula as well. That was going to limit her to an unattractive quad outlet on the wall. I talked her into a counter pop-up with six outlets + 2 USB outlets. She loves it and every phone and small appliance(blender etc) gets plugged into it because it is away from the main activity area. The added bonus of course is that it drops down to an almost flush reveal with the counter, when not in use.
Glad it was helpful! The fridge LOOKS great, but SOOO unpractical. Unless you have a second one in a basement or garage OR if you have a small family, it just doesn't hold enough. ;)
Haha. Loved the slo-mo chair fail fall! If I had known I was practically going to live in the kitchen most of the day, (seems like anyway) mine would be totally different!!!
You are so right about comfortable well made chairs. We spend a lot of time gathering around the table. Comfort is important. On the fridge, I bought the bigger refrigerator. It's good, but I can't reach the back of the top shelf easily. It's deep. When I do the remodel, I'm thinking of getting a counter depth fridge x2! I'll have them open like a double door fridge but actually be two refrigerators. Great tips. Thanks!
That's why every time I look at a house video, if the kitchen isn't big, it's a no no. The kitchen is the heart of the house so everyone should make it spacious.
I really listened to your video. I believe that I heard your frustration over lack of function, bad bar stools, poor appliance placement and size, clumsy drawer design, and dangerous chairs. Functionality brings its own beauty to design. My favorite feature in my new kitchen is my recycling center, I love it because it solved a problem! Hit the thrift shops for a set of comfortable dining chairs, they are practically giving them away. Windsor design are comfy with the curved back. You will be rewarded every night at dinner. Your next kitchen will be better! You are learning what is important, great job.
Unfortunately it’s the “little things” that annoy us the most. Some of the things you dislike, like the shelves and stools, can still be changed. The layout and function, you’ll just have to live with. Overall, it looks nice.
Loved this video. My kitchen regret is my backsplash- we got the tiles free from my sister’s renovation...it would not have been my first choice and now I regret it because it’s so hard to change! I should have been more patient- story of my life.
Ooof. I know all about that. The "free is better than what I have" situation. My bathroom is one of those. Thankful for the freebies, but I would have been better of waiting too.
I agree with the counter depth refrigerator. I've always had the larger ones that stick out and in 2021 when I needed a new one, I was so excited to get a fridge flush with the counter. 😂😭 Well, I hate it because of the tiny shelves thus, lack of space. I ended up purchasing a freezer chest just so I could have freezer room. The fridge part is bad but the freezer is worse. Now I have to wait like another ten years when this one breaks, so I can get a regular one. 🙄😏 I learned my lesson with that one.
Thank you for your kind feedback. You literally commented exactly how I feel about the whole project - happy with the overall result while recognizing things I would do differently. :)
At the auto parts store you can find a wheel paint in matte black that is incredibly durable. I even used it on my door hinges and it is amazingly strong, you could totally use it on your range hood!
OMG- this is a much needed video. my husband and I renovating our house in a cheap way, i appreciate you sharing so i can avoid the same mistakes. overall you are beautiful and i love everything about this video, your kitchen is full of LOVE and that makes it even more beautiful.
I'm about to start building a house and like you I'm trying to find a balance between those things I really want and what makes economic sense. I know this will be my last home (retirement) and my only 2 other homes were new but already completely finished by the time I found them. Builder grade everything, I got to pick nothing, so I'm determined this home will be what I want.
I'm glad the tips were helpful. If you want to hear some further thuoghts about the counter-depth fridge (it's been a hot topic in video comments), I recently posted a video with tips for selecting a fridge. Hope it helps! th-cam.com/video/1IwLtCwrIIs/w-d-xo.html
Yes! In the US, lots of people only buy groceries once a week! That’s why they have such big refrigerators. In the UK we had what would be considered a mini fridge in the US. It worked fine, but we just went shopping a few days per week. But nothing went bad and it made me plan better.
Just stumbled across your channel and this video. I have similar chairs as you, they’re knock offs from the famous Eames plastic molded chairs purchased from Amazon. I had constant issues with a screw coming undone and that “unsafe” feeling every time I used them. My father in-law said I needed to replace the washers with “tension” washers and it did the trick! They are safe now and I have not had a bolt come undone since then! Look into it, the washers cost me a few dollars at Home Depot. Thought I’d share! Best of luck!
That is the only tip I would urge you not to agree with. Counter depth refrigerator s are the best, especially in a small kitchen design like this. A regular size fridge would look awful because of the way it would stick out. She bought the wrong size/style counter depth for her family that’s the real issue, not that it is a counter depth.
I have never opened my dishwasher and oven at the same time. Mine aren’t opposite each other, but I do all my cooking then I use the dishwasher! Also, I agree about the curtains and vents thing - all the heat or AC goes out the window. Get new stools - they are not expensive, you could even get them at Target for a reasonable price, until years from now when you want to upgrade. Change is hard, I know - I bought my dinette set with 4 chairs, 2 barstool/Island chairs, and Bakers rack 18 years ago - they all look so nice and coordinated (in my mind), but time to move on from them but I just can seem to take myself to the department store to shop for new and different!
Great ideas! Thanks so much for your thoughtful comment. I so wish there was a Target near me. They didn't last very long in Canada. I'm counting down the days 'till I can cross the border and shop at Target again!
We have a counter depth fridge and it seems to work well. We still have room usually and clean it out when things get expired. Love the tip for the stove and dishwasher!
A hint to readers: spending a couple hundred dollars to have a professional kitchen designer review your plans and ideas can prevent problems and expensive mistakes. This will save money in the long run.
@@jessicaandresenrealestate8434 chsin store companies that sell cabinets, counter tops etc. have "designers" who generally work within the customer's existing floor plan and layout of plumbing, appliance position etc. Their "design" work consists of choosing cabinet, counters and backsplash styles and colors, plumbing fixtures and possibly appliances. They do not suggest changes to the existing work triangle, moving electrical, plumbing, lighting, or walls, etc. Their objective is to sell products. I know because I have worked for such a company. These stores give their "designers" a two weeks course, primarily aimed at teaching the computer program, not design. The second "designer" at a store I worked at had been driving forklifts before transferring to the kitchen department. 2 weeks later he supposedly was a kitchen design expert? A properly trained independent design consultant suggests changes that will make the kitchen function better, and avoid the problems and mistakes I referred to.
It’s just my husband and I and we have a counter depth fridge and it just works. They really don’t work for a family. And even we have a second undercounter size fridge in the garage for holidays, trays, watermelons, etc. Definitely make sure your kitchen chairs are sturdy and comfortable because they get used all the time!! Your kitchen is beautiful and it seems like many of the things you mentioned are things you can change, so that’s good.
The shelves, the island chairs, kitchen chairs, the range hood are all easy and relatively cheap fixes. It's been 5 years of hating them. For max $500-$1000 you can fix all of that. Go for it ☺
Thank you for sharing all the mistakes. I work in a public school that got a beautiful remodel, but the functionality absolutely sucks...reminds me of this. Functionality as my priority, I haaaaaaste my current kitchen...not fun to use at all. But got my appliances first and I love love love love love love the functionality of my new Samsung Bestoke appliances, full size fridge, best ever!❤
Have you tried a vent deflector or a pop-up air register on that heat vent? If you did, you could direct the air into the room and lengthen your curtains. And yes, I would wrap the footrests on the stool with something attractive. And spend the money to replace the kitchen chairs. Eventually they're all going to break anyway, and maybe injure someone (which will be more expensive than the replacement).
Your video came up in my recommendation videos and was glad that it did! Your info was informative and delivery was entertaining! I have many kitchen dilemmas. My kitchen is so outdated, falling apart and not functional. My biggest frustration is a bottom cupboard that doesn’t open all the way because of the stove. While trying to get things out, I have gotten stuck in the cupboard. I’ve felt like Winnie the Pooh who got stuck in his honey pot. Only difference, there is nothing tasty in that cupboard. Loved your video!!
A lot of cabinet manufactures allow you to make an on line account and practice making floor plans on their site (with the hope you will choose their cabinets). That way you won't be overwhelmed/unprepared when you first sit down with a kitchen designer.
This was an awesome video!!! Thanks so much for sharing. It just goes to show no matter how hard we plan... things never work out as perfectly as we want.
I consider a space- vrs family size. Kids/ teenagers/ or just a couple. But sometimes in a small space you just have to make it fit and work it out the best possible. Going above Budgeting is one issue too. What I do I buy something that I can replace later
For sure! What is super spacious for one family is a tight squeeze for another. Budgeting the most important things and then adding in the "extras" when money becomes available is always a good idea. Then you have the essentials taken care of.
Super helpful information. My counter depth fridge is being delivered tomorrow...sigh. I've thought about having mini fridges in the bedroom closets, so you just green lighted that idea.
I appreciate your honesty!!! I had the same dilemma regarding curtain length and hvac vents. So..... Re: the vents/slash curtain length: vent diffusers will direct the heat/air coming out away from the curtains and will allow for full length curtains.
This is the first video I see in your channel and I found it so refreshing how open and candid you were. Thank you so much for sharing your experience!
New to your channel, came over from the TH-cam channel “ Our Tribe of Many” Sarah mentioned your name and your wonderful ideas on decorating! So glad I found your channel.😀
Some great tips for someone like me who also has a small kitchen which is being remodeled now. Love the bar stools...so glad you mentioned the footrests as I hadn't thought of that and love having my morning coffee at the bar in my bare feet. Also the appliance placement is good to rethink. I have my table, but haven't purchased the chairs yet so again...something to think about as I was going to go cheap on that as well. lol Thanks!!!
I was thinking about that the other day, and thought about that “wrapping” they use for cars nowadays, it’s a film, resistant to (I’m guessing) everything, use whatever color you want, whenever you want, you can get it removed, and whatever finish is under will be perfectly fine! I wonder if car paint shops will freak out when women start showing up with their range hoods hhahaha but also, who knows how expensive that’d be 🤷♀️
@@iamloved Wraps are plastic and should not be used near heat. Instead use black high-heat spray paint intended for fireplaces, chimneys and stoves. Available at any hardware store.
They put those wraps on the hoods of super-cars that run very hot. Are you saying that the hood over you stove gets equally hot? I don’t think so. I think the wraps would work great. I’ve used that paint and would never use it inside on something as visible as my range hood.
Awesome video. Great to keep these in mind as I plan my kitchen Reno. Re curtains: perhaps open them up, use blinds under them. Then they can reach the floor because you will never close them. Re chairs: Did the same thing buying from online conducting 2020, most uncomfortable chairs ever. Keep an eye on Craigslist, something better may come along someday! Thanks again for the food for thought!
Thank you! I suppose the size is relative. We downgraded kitchen size when we moved to this home because of the other space it provided us with. It just feels small when 4 of us are trying to maneuver around. ;)
Yeah it was pretty alienating to be honest. Even for non-city standards this can be considered normal or generous for a family home on the east coast. The kitchen does look great though.
Our kitchen is big. Every holiday someone gets mad and throws a tomato because they get frustrated about tripping of everyone. I think it’s just kitchens lol
So this is a small spaced kitchen to you...? Wow.. My kitchen doesnt even have room for a two door fridge let alone a kitchen island...and a dining table ☺ Beautiful kitchen if I could leave a suggestions more color makes it a bit warmer and maybe some bigger green plants
Thank you, thank you, thank you for these saving advice. We're embarking on our kitchen redesign... and I'm researching the heck out of it. Your kitchen is BEAUTIFUL!!! But yes, I am considering the counter deep fridge too, except they seem more expensive than normal refrigerators! And after hearing this, plus a couple of comments too... I think I'd be saving money not doing that! :D
Thanks for the tips! It's funny, I was super adamant about a counter depth Refrigerator ... until I saw your video LOL we like food so I think I will take your advice.
It's great to watch this video... I am having my kitchen redone next week. I don't understand what you mean about the fridge. I have the same one. I do see your point about the dishwasher and oven.
For us, the fridge is too shallow to hold the leftovers and food that we typically have on hand. It works for many others though! Enjoy your kitchen renovation! It'll be well worth it.
I opened my kitchen up by taking out my PANTRY!! What was I THINKING?? I long for that pantry. I really scrimped on the remodel, so I’m thinking of doing it over when the covid is under control.
I recently had my kitchen remodeled too. I agree about the counter depth sized refrigerator. That’s what got because of my small sized kitchen. Big mistake! We do use a second small refrigerator out in the garage. Your kitchen looks beautiful !
I totally agree. I was like who the **** needs such a big fridge 😂 In Norway they are usually built in 60/60 cm with the freezer being the bottom 90 cm 😅
They do seem easy, don't they? We don't have extra cash kicking around to upgrade something we already paid for once. Not at this stage of the game, anyway. Some of these might get fixed when we do our basement renovation though.
Ok, just a little thing but the “stove” doesn’t open, the “oven” does. Your kitchen is really nice, I love the pendant lights. I have a HUGE kitchen and we are still always moving out of the way so someone can access the drawer we are standing in front of. LOL
We have no plans to renovate our kitchen anytime soon, but it needs to be. One of the things I always think while watching home renovations on tv, is that style and beauty is usually not practical or functional. I think I would want a functional kitchen over a stylish one, but I liked your honesty. The comment about the refrigerator and hidden drawers will really help us in the future. I wouldn’t have thought about that.
I don’t get the curtains touching the floor. In my lifetime we never did this because your curtains get dirty (especially when you have pets who think it’s bedding)! I know people like the look but it isn’t practical with pets and kids. I wish this trend would go away! 😂
We use these clear plastic vent covers that redirect the heat to go out horizontally rather than vertically. Stops the curtains from bloating out from the vents :)
I like my curtains to touch the floor too. IKEA curtains is a great cheap option because they are super long you can cut them and hem them by hand to your desire Length.
Had I known a course like this was available, I would have taken it BEFORE I did my kitchen renovation. If you're interested, here's a link to receive $200 off your enrolment fee: www.theinteriordesigninstitute.ca/landing/referfriend/?code=referfriend&aid=referfriend&rid=217137
Original Review of The Interior Design Institute: th-cam.com/video/FOuJgdA-EK4/w-d-xo.html
Your kitchen is almost as big as my entire condo…I’m not kidding.
I’m so happy we didn’t have enough money to do our kitchen when we rebuilt our house, that gave me the opportunity to live in the space (with our old cheap cabinets) and carefully study the layout before we spent a whole lot of money on a new kitchen, I spent a lot of hours watching videos like these to learn as much as I could before redoing our own... so thank you for sharing, your kitchen is beautiful!
That's a great perspective! And good idea too. Thanks for sharing!
Meanwhile in Europe: how on Earth is this kitchen small 😂? Also, love the slo mo!
Haha. Right?!? I would settle for a teeny kitchen if I could live in Europe!
Counter depth refrigerator is a very common thing in Europe
My late 1930s house has a 10'9"x7'9" galley kitchen bounded by an exterior and thee load-bearing walls, 8'1" ceiling and YOU are complaining about a "really small space"?
You have space for an island and a kitchen table, for crying out loud.
My walk-through isn't wide enough for two people to pass without brushing each other. Get a friendly and curious Norwegian Elkhound n the mix.....
I do agree on the counter-depth fridge, but that's because the wall where my fridge has to go is 34 1/2 inch long and cannot be modified. because the other side of the wall is the master bedroom closet. The case opening from the kitchen to the breakfast room is 27 1/2 inch wide and I'm hoping we can widen it to 36 inches wide, but that will encroach on the counters along the outside wall.
Well, i live in Europe and my open floor kitchen, livingroom is 92.6m2 . That is ok I think.
@@iamloved What is the size of the kitchen? Like floor size?
Not meant in a bad way, but that is not a small kitchen...But I guess its a culture thing? I live in Estonia, and my kitchen is considered small (1.7m times 1.9m) but your kitchen is considered above average size. That being said, its a lovely kitchen. I designed my onw as well, even though it is ikea, I love how it turned out.
Yes that is small! Where we live my kitchen is considered small. I suppose it's all relative. Gotta love Ikea for great kitchens!
@@iamloved the Ikea kitchen worked really well for a small space and I had to get kind of...inventive? I think is the word. But it is just me and my baby and it is just right. I also love the fact that I have everything in arms reach AND the high chair still fits in as well so I can cook with the baby.
EXCELLENT! This is the kind of "tell it like it is" we viewers need but few tell us. Bless you for opening up!
I’m glad it was helpful!
Thank you. To me living in Europe the fridge is huge! I'm designing mine right now, so much to consider. Good point about the chairs and the dishwasher and oven close to each other. I think it looks really nice and timeless :)
Thank you. I'm glad it was helpful. You're totally right about the fridge size in Europe! This is massive in comparison. ;)
Don't apologize! You're not complaining your critiquing your work. Learning from your mistakes. Thank you very much for sharing this was helpful
I appreciate that perspective. Thanks for sharing!
For the knife-edged bar stools - Pick up some 1" dowel at your local box store and run a groove about 1/2" into one side, then glue the grooved dowel on top of the knife edge. Dowel is pretty inexpensive, and it might solve the problem without a big time commitment.
Thanks for the suggestion!
Great suggestion and I've used dowel rods for so many things.
So easy to fix. Go to plumbing dept for pipe cover. It is foam tubing that is split. It is used to insulate pipes. It comes in a roll and is easy to cut with a scissors. Less than $20 . Will fit right over your foot rests. Why not paint your range hood black, and maybe the edges of your shelves too. Beautiful kitchen.
Great video! It’s interesting that most of these mistakes were functional. I think it’s easy to get so caught up in the look that don’t put enough thought into use. Design is form AND function. I feel like if I have to choose one or the other, functionality wins every time. Also regarding counter depth refrigerators, I have had more luck with the ones that have freezer on the bottom.
Thanks for the feedback!
Oh my gosh I’m so grateful I’m not the only one that has had frustrations during a renovation! I’m almost done with my kitchen….finally but man did I learn things the expensive way!! Biggest lesson learned, always always always hire a professional to do the job!!! 😖
Oof I'm sorry you ran into issues. Expensive lessons are brutal!
Excellent video Marisa! So many things seem like great ideas when we're dreaming online, but then you learn when you live with it! I really appreciate your willingness to share these things because it is tremendously helpful! Your kitchen is beautiful! Thank you for the tips!
I’m glad you found it helpful!
This is a great video. And no, you are not complaining. We live in a century rural home. Re did the kitchen about 10 yrs ago, there is just the 2 of us, however, its a big kitchen ( we think ) but when friends gather, it's not. Many of my complaints are the same as yours!
It's amazing how much smaller a space feels when people are in it. Our entire main floor is open but it's only about 400 square feet or so. When people come over it feels sooooo crammed!
Counter depth fridges make total sense(you never lose track of things hiding and going out of date in the back). You just have to get as wide a model as you can afford, that makes sense in your layout. A female friend of ours hated the idea of outlets on the side of her new custom kitchen peninsula as well. That was going to limit her to an unattractive quad outlet on the wall. I talked her into a counter pop-up with six outlets + 2 USB outlets. She loves it and every phone and small appliance(blender etc) gets plugged into it because it is away from the main activity area. The added bonus of course is that it drops down to an almost flush reveal with the counter, when not in use.
Oooo I love that idea!
I would get some black rope and a glue gun and wrap those sharp footrests
Good idea! Thanks for sharing!
Or you could wrap with the rubbery stuff used for insulating pipes. Easy to cut to fit and slip over metal. AND inexpensive!
You can also add a thin piece of wood with a little screw on the sides to attach them.
My first thought was painted pool noodles 😂
Cut a partial channel in dowels and slide on top of the razor rungs.
I laughed the whole time watching this! Glad you have made these "mistakes" so we can learn in advance... especially the fridge tip!
Glad it was helpful! The fridge LOOKS great, but SOOO unpractical. Unless you have a second one in a basement or garage OR if you have a small family, it just doesn't hold enough. ;)
I've made that fridge mistake myself! Live and learn
I have had a sub zero counter depth fridge for 27 yrs and I have lots of space - granted it is 48” wide fridge /freezer.
I feel like for most "mistakes" it was style over convenience. These drawers look amazing, though.
I agree. Trying to merge the two revealed my errors.
Thanks for being real. The open space is lovely to entertain friends.
It really is!
Your kitchen is stunning! We all make mistakes, but I think overall you did a great job!
Thanks so much! 😊
Thank you for your transparency and honest, real talk! We have all made some mistakes. Your kitchen is very lovely!!
Thanks so much! 😊
I'm designing my kitchen now. I appreciate the tips!!
Wonderful! Best of luck!
"Small space that we have" is 3 times the size of my kitchen:))
Haha! I suppose "small" is all relative. :)
Haha. Loved the slo-mo chair fail fall!
If I had known I was practically going to live in the kitchen most of the day, (seems like anyway) mine would be totally different!!!
So true! That slo-mo chair fall was no joke in real life. Lol
Hi even I did mistake in kitchen I installed more cabinets left small space for fridge sink and washing machine
You are so right about comfortable well made chairs. We spend a lot of time gathering around the table. Comfort is important. On the fridge, I bought the bigger refrigerator. It's good, but I can't reach the back of the top shelf easily. It's deep. When I do the remodel, I'm thinking of getting a counter depth fridge x2! I'll have them open like a double door fridge but actually be two refrigerators. Great tips. Thanks!
That's a great idea! A wider counter-depth would be a lovely option.
Your honesty and transparency are so sweet and refreshing...and helpful!!
I'm so glad!
That's why every time I look at a house video, if the kitchen isn't big, it's a no no. The kitchen is the heart of the house so everyone should make it spacious.
That's a great way to prioritize your home!
I really listened to your video. I believe that I heard your frustration over lack of function, bad bar stools, poor appliance placement and size, clumsy drawer design, and dangerous chairs. Functionality brings its own beauty to design. My favorite feature in my new kitchen is my recycling center, I love it because it solved a problem! Hit the thrift shops for a set of comfortable dining chairs, they are practically giving them away. Windsor design are comfy with the curved back. You will be rewarded every night at dinner. Your next kitchen will be better! You are learning what is important, great job.
Great advice! Thank you!
Unfortunately it’s the “little things” that annoy us the most. Some of the things you dislike, like the shelves and stools, can still be changed. The layout and function, you’ll just have to live with. Overall, it looks nice.
Yes I completely agree. Thanks for watching!
I love this video. Thank you for this. Because I also have some minor regrets from my kitchen Reno. So this helps me not feel so bad
Glad it was helpful!
It's so refreshing to hear you talk about budget and sacrificing to stay within budget.
Not everyone is made of money, right? And going into debt for this just isn't worth it to me. ;)
Loved this video. My kitchen regret is my backsplash- we got the tiles free from my sister’s renovation...it would not have been my first choice and now I regret it because it’s so hard to change! I should have been more patient- story of my life.
Ooof. I know all about that. The "free is better than what I have" situation. My bathroom is one of those. Thankful for the freebies, but I would have been better of waiting too.
It's easy to paint over kitchen tiles. Check it out 😁
Not hard to change, life is too short for ugly backsplashes.
You have perfectly illustrated why you hire a professional designer. Thank you!
Thank you!
I agree with the counter depth refrigerator. I've always had the larger ones that stick out and in 2021 when I needed a new one, I was so excited to get a fridge flush with the counter. 😂😭 Well, I hate it because of the tiny shelves thus, lack of space. I ended up purchasing a freezer chest just so I could have freezer room. The fridge part is bad but the freezer is worse. Now I have to wait like another ten years when this one breaks, so I can get a regular one. 🙄😏 I learned my lesson with that one.
Oof. I'm sorry to hear that!
Thanks for your honesty and normalizing regrets, even while being happy with the overall result! Expecting perfection makes life wayyy too hard.
Thank you for your kind feedback. You literally commented exactly how I feel about the whole project - happy with the overall result while recognizing things I would do differently. :)
At the auto parts store you can find a wheel paint in matte black that is incredibly durable. I even used it on my door hinges and it is amazingly strong, you could totally use it on your range hood!
I have asked my husband about painting the range. So far, he's not a fan of the idea...
@@iamloved you’ve made plenty of design sacrifices… you deserve your black range hood.
@@Ms.NoNo2 Hehe. In due time I'm sure. ;)
And that black paint could also be used on the stainless shelves. I was thinking appliance paint would work but I bet the auto paint is even better.
@@-alpenglow- Ooo good idea! Thanks for sharing.
great video. glad to see someone working in a budget. hate watching remodels where money is no object....lol
I hear you. But wouldn't that be nice....? ;)
Thank you for your honest approach. Glad I found your channel
Welcome! Thanks for subscribing!
OMG- this is a much needed video. my husband and I renovating our house in a cheap way, i appreciate you sharing so i can avoid the same mistakes. overall you are beautiful and i love everything about this video, your kitchen is full of LOVE and that makes it even more beautiful.
Awww thank you so much! I wish you all the BEST on your home reno!
This is one of the BEST videos! I wish everyone you’d do a regrets design video!
Aww thanks so much!
What a fantastic video for those of us about to renovate & need to hear the cons. Thank you ❤️🇨🇦
Glad it was helpful!
For the small drawers, i love when there's a magnet that opens the 2 drawers at the same time, especially for the utensils !
That's a fantastic idea! Googling now...
I'm about to start building a house and like you I'm trying to find a balance between those things I really want and what makes economic sense. I know this will be my last home (retirement) and my only 2 other homes were new but already completely finished by the time I found them. Builder grade everything, I got to pick nothing, so I'm determined this home will be what I want.
Thanks for the fridge tip! I've actually considered that type of fridge because it's in the house plan but not now.
I'm glad the tips were helpful. If you want to hear some further thuoghts about the counter-depth fridge (it's been a hot topic in video comments), I recently posted a video with tips for selecting a fridge. Hope it helps! th-cam.com/video/1IwLtCwrIIs/w-d-xo.html
I hope you can make it the home you've always wanted!
It’s still awesome that you did it and learned. And I like the stainless shelves and hood. Aim some warmer light on the silver tone and it turns gold!
Great idea!
You know, in France, we would say that your kitchen has the perfect size! 😉
I did not know that. ☺️ Thanks for sharing!
Exactement ce que j'ai pensé ! Elle est même plutôt grande en fait
In the U.K. this is considered pretty big to be honest.
Yes! In the US, lots of people only buy groceries once a week! That’s why they have such big refrigerators. In the UK we had what would be considered a mini fridge in the US. It worked fine, but we just went shopping a few days per week. But nothing went bad and it made me plan better.
@@emilyb1575 Thanks a bunch for your explanation!
First time watching! You seem so genuine! Can't wait to watch more!
Yay! Thank you! And welcome to my channel!
Thank you. we are looking at a home tomorrow, and a better kitchen is the top reason to move. You have given me some good things to check.
That's fun. I hope you find a home that works well for you! Good luck!
Counter depth is fine, they look better, just get wider! Also, fridges with multiple drawers the open from the outside have less storage space inside.
Oh that's good to know! Thanks!
Just stumbled across your channel and this video. I have similar chairs as you, they’re knock offs from the famous Eames plastic molded chairs purchased from Amazon. I had constant issues with a screw coming undone and that “unsafe” feeling every time I used them. My father in-law said I needed to replace the washers with “tension” washers and it did the trick! They are safe now and I have not had a bolt come undone since then! Look into it, the washers cost me a few dollars at Home Depot. Thought I’d share! Best of luck!
Thanks so much for the tip! Much appreciated!
Thanks for the tips...especially the counter depth refrigerator.
You bet! Glad it was helpful!
That is the only tip I would urge you not to agree with. Counter depth refrigerator s are the best, especially in a small kitchen design like this. A regular size fridge would look awful because of the way it would stick out. She bought the wrong size/style counter depth for her family that’s the real issue, not that it is a counter depth.
Terrific video. You are very pleasant to listen to as well. Well done!
Thank you so much!
I love those pendant lights!
Thank you! Me tooooo!
They are the most gorgeous things‼️😍
@@deniseporter6345 Right?! I essentially designed the rest of the kitchen around them because of how stunning they are to me.
Where did you buy them. I’m changing the ceiling lights in my kitchen and would love something similar.
I have never opened my dishwasher and oven at the same time. Mine aren’t opposite each other, but I do all my cooking then I use the dishwasher! Also, I agree about the curtains and vents thing - all the heat or AC goes out the window. Get new stools - they are not expensive, you could even get them at Target for a reasonable price, until years from now when you want to upgrade. Change is hard, I know - I bought my dinette set with 4 chairs, 2 barstool/Island chairs, and Bakers rack 18 years ago - they all look so nice and coordinated (in my mind), but time to move on from them but I just can seem to take myself to the department store to shop for new and different!
Great ideas! Thanks so much for your thoughtful comment. I so wish there was a Target near me. They didn't last very long in Canada. I'm counting down the days 'till I can cross the border and shop at Target again!
Loved the idea of clean matching seams on the cabinetts and drawers! This was mega helpful❤
Oh I'm so glad it was helpful!
We have a counter depth fridge and it seems to work well. We still have room usually and clean it out when things get expired.
Love the tip for the stove and dishwasher!
Oh I'm glad to hear it works well for you!
A hint to readers: spending a couple hundred dollars to have a professional kitchen designer review your plans and ideas can prevent problems and expensive mistakes. This will save money in the long run.
Thanks for the suggestion!
Builders Surplus has design engineers that layout every aspect of your kitchen, and it’s completely complimentary!!
@@jessicaandresenrealestate8434 chsin store companies that sell cabinets, counter tops etc. have "designers" who generally work within the customer's existing floor plan and layout of plumbing, appliance position etc. Their "design" work consists of choosing cabinet, counters and backsplash styles and colors, plumbing fixtures and possibly appliances. They do not suggest changes to the existing work triangle, moving electrical, plumbing, lighting, or walls, etc. Their objective is to sell products. I know because I have worked for such a company.
These stores give their "designers" a two weeks course, primarily aimed at teaching the computer program, not design. The second "designer" at a store I worked at had been driving forklifts before transferring to the kitchen department. 2 weeks later he supposedly was a kitchen design expert?
A properly trained independent design consultant suggests changes that will make the kitchen function better, and avoid the problems and mistakes I referred to.
It’s just my husband and I and we have a counter depth fridge and it just works. They really don’t work for a family. And even we have a second undercounter size fridge in the garage for holidays, trays, watermelons, etc. Definitely make sure your kitchen chairs are sturdy and comfortable because they get used all the time!! Your kitchen is beautiful and it seems like many of the things you mentioned are things you can change, so that’s good.
Thanks for sharing! I love the idea of adding an undercounter size fridge - that would be really helpful.
That was an awesome video! Very helpful and realistic! Thank you so much for sharing your real thoughts with us :)
Glad you enjoyed it!
I love your upbeat grateful attitude. I am going through a kitchen renovation right now, and will take into account your great tips. Thanks 👍🏽
Wonderful! Attitude makes a big difference!
The shelves, the island chairs, kitchen chairs, the range hood are all easy and relatively cheap fixes. It's been 5 years of hating them. For max $500-$1000 you can fix all of that. Go for it ☺
Maybe you can convince my hubby for me!?!
Thank you for sharing all the mistakes. I work in a public school that got a beautiful remodel, but the functionality absolutely sucks...reminds me of this. Functionality as my priority, I haaaaaaste my current kitchen...not fun to use at all. But got my appliances first and I love love love love love love the functionality of my new Samsung Bestoke appliances, full size fridge, best ever!❤
You are so welcome! Unfunctional is so frustrating!!! Glad you like your appliances!
Omg this is the most useful kitchen reno video I've ever seen 👍🏻
Wow, thanks!
Have you tried a vent deflector or a pop-up air register on that heat vent? If you did, you could direct the air into the room and lengthen your curtains. And yes, I would wrap the footrests on the stool with something attractive. And spend the money to replace the kitchen chairs. Eventually they're all going to break anyway, and maybe injure someone (which will be more expensive than the replacement).
We haven't tried a vent deflector. Thanks for your ideas! I like how you think. ;)
Your video came up in my recommendation videos and was glad that it did! Your info was informative and delivery was entertaining! I have many kitchen dilemmas. My kitchen is so outdated, falling apart and not functional. My biggest frustration is a bottom cupboard that doesn’t open all the way because of the stove. While trying to get things out, I have gotten stuck in the cupboard. I’ve felt like Winnie the Pooh who got stuck in his honey pot. Only difference, there is nothing tasty in that cupboard. Loved your video!!
Oh my! That painted quite a funny picture in my mind. Thanks for sharing, and I'm so glad you found the video helpful.
I appreciate your honesty. It’s an eye opener for me. I’m in the process of doing my kitchen and don’t know how to start. Thank you
It can be overwhelming, for sure. Consider hiring an interior designer. For the cost of a kitchen renovation it would be worth the investment!
A lot of cabinet manufactures allow you to make an on line account and practice making floor plans on their site (with the hope you will choose their cabinets). That way you won't be overwhelmed/unprepared when you first sit down with a kitchen designer.
This was an awesome video!!! Thanks so much for sharing. It just goes to show no matter how hard we plan... things never work out as perfectly as we want.
So true!
I’m TOO BUSY LISTENING to write. But I LOVE this and LOVE YOU And I’m REALLY CRITICAL! Which is a compliment ❤️ because I’M VERY IMPRESSED! ❤️👍👍👍👍
Haha! You’re too kind!
I consider a space- vrs family size. Kids/ teenagers/ or just a couple. But sometimes in a small space you just have to make it fit and work it out the best possible. Going above Budgeting is one issue too. What I do I buy something that I can replace later
For sure! What is super spacious for one family is a tight squeeze for another. Budgeting the most important things and then adding in the "extras" when money becomes available is always a good idea. Then you have the essentials taken care of.
Thank you for your honest mistakes. I will definitely learn from you renovating our kitchen.
You are so welcome! I’m glad it was helpful!
Super helpful information. My counter depth fridge is being delivered tomorrow...sigh. I've thought about having mini fridges in the bedroom closets, so you just green lighted that idea.
What a clever idea!
I appreciate your honesty!!! I had the same dilemma regarding curtain length and hvac vents. So..... Re: the vents/slash curtain length: vent diffusers will direct the heat/air coming out away from the curtains and will allow for full length curtains.
Thanks for the tip!
My new counter depth frig holds much more than my old one. Walls thinner, deeper and with 4 doors helps with large trays.
That's good to know! Thanks for sharing.
If you don’t mind me asking ….Which one is it?
This is the first video I see in your channel and I found it so refreshing how open and candid you were. Thank you so much for sharing your experience!
Oh I'm so glad! Thank you for sharing this with me. I'd love for you to subscribe to my channel so you can see more!
Has anyone mentioned vent deflectors yet? They work really well.
Yes, someone did. Thanks for mentioning it though!
The vent covers are not cute. And the clutzy people in my house kick them. They survived on my basement vents awhile longer. Beautiful kitchen.
@@deniseporter6345 Thanks for the feedback!
Thanks for your insight and honesty. It’s refreshing 😊
You are so welcome
New to your channel, came over from the TH-cam channel “ Our Tribe of Many” Sarah mentioned your name and your wonderful ideas on decorating! So glad I found your channel.😀
Me too !
Oh thank you! I'm so thankful Sarah @ourtribeofmany mentioned my channel. Welcome!
Thanks for your honesty!
My pleasure!
I don't care about an electrical fire I just want the curtains to be beautifully long😂😂😂😂 OMG I can relate so much!
lol! I feel ya!
men are such exaggerators
Some great tips for someone like me who also has a small kitchen which is being remodeled now. Love the bar stools...so glad you mentioned the footrests as I hadn't thought of that and love having my morning coffee at the bar in my bare feet. Also the appliance placement is good to rethink. I have my table, but haven't purchased the chairs yet so again...something to think about as I was going to go cheap on that as well. lol Thanks!!!
I'm glad you found it helpful! Enjoy your new kitchen!
Isn't there a special kind of paint that would go over stainless steel? You could paint the rangehood and shelves black.
I was thinking about that the other day, and thought about that “wrapping” they use for cars nowadays, it’s a film, resistant to (I’m guessing) everything, use whatever color you want, whenever you want, you can get it removed, and whatever finish is under will be perfectly fine! I wonder if car paint shops will freak out when women start showing up with their range hoods hhahaha but also, who knows how expensive that’d be 🤷♀️
Oooo that could work!
@@iamloved Wraps are plastic and should not be used near heat. Instead use black high-heat spray paint intended for fireplaces, chimneys and stoves. Available at any hardware store.
That was my thought. They make high heat paint
They put those wraps on the hoods of super-cars that run very hot. Are you saying that the hood over you stove gets equally hot? I don’t think so. I think the wraps would work great. I’ve used that paint and would never use it inside on something as visible as my range hood.
Awesome video. Great to keep these in mind as I plan my kitchen Reno. Re curtains: perhaps open them up, use blinds under them. Then they can reach the floor because you will never close them. Re chairs: Did the same thing buying from online conducting 2020, most uncomfortable chairs ever. Keep an eye on Craigslist, something better may come along someday! Thanks again for the food for thought!
Great tips! Thanks for sharing. And I’m glad the video was helpful. 😊
Your kitchen looks lovely but it's not small!
Thank you! I suppose the size is relative. We downgraded kitchen size when we moved to this home because of the other space it provided us with. It just feels small when 4 of us are trying to maneuver around. ;)
Yeah it was pretty alienating to be honest. Even for non-city standards this can be considered normal or generous for a family home on the east coast. The kitchen does look great though.
Thank you for this video. 🥰🙏 makes me think of my kitchen project.
I'm glad it was helpful! Best of luck with your kitchen!
Our kitchen is big. Every holiday someone gets mad and throws a tomato because they get frustrated about tripping of everyone. I think it’s just kitchens lol
Throws a tomato! Lol. I wanna be at your family gatherings!
I love my counter depth refrigerator! I’ve had one for multiple different kitchens.
So many people feel the same!
Can I ask what your frig sits across from in your kitchen? I am trying to decide where mine should sit. Tks.
@@daisy1441 It's across from an opening in between the island and a wall. So nothing is actually across from it.
So this is a small spaced kitchen to you...?
Wow.. My kitchen doesnt even have room for a two door fridge let alone a kitchen island...and a dining table ☺
Beautiful kitchen if I could leave a suggestions more color makes it a bit warmer and maybe some bigger green plants
Oh man, that is small. I suppose it's all relative. I love the idea of adding bigger green plants! Thank you!
Thank you, thank you, thank you for these saving advice. We're embarking on our kitchen redesign... and I'm researching the heck out of it. Your kitchen is BEAUTIFUL!!! But yes, I am considering the counter deep fridge too, except they seem more expensive than normal refrigerators! And after hearing this, plus a couple of comments too... I think I'd be saving money not doing that! :D
Glad it was helpful! Have fun with your remodel!
Thanks for the tips! It's funny, I was super adamant about a counter depth
Refrigerator ... until I saw your video LOL we like food so I think I will take your advice.
Haha! Well food definitely takes priority! 😂
It's great to watch this video... I am having my kitchen redone next week. I don't understand what you mean about the fridge. I have the same one. I do see your point about the dishwasher and oven.
For us, the fridge is too shallow to hold the leftovers and food that we typically have on hand. It works for many others though! Enjoy your kitchen renovation! It'll be well worth it.
I opened my kitchen up by taking out my PANTRY!! What was I THINKING?? I long for that pantry. I really scrimped on the remodel, so I’m thinking of doing it over when the covid is under control.
Ooof. I feel that.
Thanks for sharing,. Very real and honest advice for kitchen Renovations! Well done! ✨✨✨
You are so welcome! I'm glad it was helpful!
Use some decor on your shelves that is made from wood and add plants.
Love those ideas!
Thinking too, maybe paint the shelves?
Fantastic advice! Thank you for your openness
You are so welcome!
I’d like a kitchen walk through to see the kitchen better. It looks big to me.
Good idea. Thanks for the feedack!
I recently had my kitchen remodeled too. I agree about the counter depth sized refrigerator. That’s what got because of my small sized kitchen. Big mistake! We do use a second small refrigerator out in the garage. Your kitchen looks beautiful !
A second refrigerator is a great idea! And thanks so much!
I‘ve never seen a fridge that‘s deeper than 60cm (countertop depth) in my life! Is that an American thing?
Could be. I'm in Canada, so it's at least a Canadian thing. lol
Really?
Mine is 71cm without the doors. With the doors is 77.5cm. It’s not particularly unusual.
I’m from California. 😎
I totally agree. I was like who the **** needs such a big fridge 😂 In Norway they are usually built in 60/60 cm with the freezer being the bottom 90 cm 😅
Yes.
But Americans don't buy groceries often so they need more storage.
I think you are a great personality. You are real and a friendly way of sharing your thoughts.
Awww that's sweet. Thank you!
All of these things seem like an easy fix, what are you waiting for?
They do seem easy, don't they? We don't have extra cash kicking around to upgrade something we already paid for once. Not at this stage of the game, anyway. Some of these might get fixed when we do our basement renovation though.
Sooo helpful and I love your kitchen !!
Oh I’m so glad it was helpful. Thank you so much!
Ok, just a little thing but the “stove” doesn’t open, the “oven” does. Your kitchen is really nice, I love the pendant lights. I have a HUGE kitchen and we are still always moving out of the way so someone can access the drawer we are standing in front of. LOL
Haha! Great point - everyone wants access to the same drawers at the same time regardless of kitchen size.
Too many cooks in the kitchen!
We have no plans to renovate our kitchen anytime soon, but it needs to be. One of the things I always think while watching home renovations on tv, is that style and beauty is usually not practical or functional. I think I would want a functional kitchen over a stylish one, but I liked your honesty. The comment about the refrigerator and hidden drawers will really help us in the future. I wouldn’t have thought about that.
Thanks for the feedback. I agree, good style should be functional too!
I don’t get the curtains touching the floor. In my lifetime we never did this because your curtains get dirty (especially when you have pets who think it’s bedding)! I know people like the look but it isn’t practical with pets and kids. I wish this trend would go away! 😂
Haha! You are bang on!
We use these clear plastic vent covers that redirect the heat to go out horizontally rather than vertically. Stops the curtains from bloating out from the vents :)
Personally, I think pooling drapes is a look that is so look sloppy and so over.
I like my curtains to touch the floor too. IKEA curtains is a great cheap option because they are super long you can cut them and hem them by hand to your desire Length.
@@brendaelainewaddell1682 1@