This has been one of my favorite episodes, which is of course a high bar! I guess talking about kitchens is always so fun. The kitchens you featured were beautiful. Have a good week Nina❤❤. And thank you~
I have a beautiful renovated small galley kitchen in my condo. Can’t afford to lose drawer space and a microwave is a must for me. So above the range it is. BTW I did get the sleekest microwave that I could find to help keep the “eye sore” at a minimum!)
Waterfall island if designed properly to invite guests and serve as a central space is timeless. It’s also more functional. So in space constrained areas it will always work. Dimensions are important. Wider for the dining portion with cabinets to maximize space. Built in power options. Also, decorate it to be inviting like you mention.
The last two were absolutely new to me: dovetailed cabinet drawer faces and rounded cabinets. I love that you featured antique or furniture pieces for islands, along with rounded edge countertops. “Discovering” rooms is a lovely conceptualization. Your kitchen ideas are always next level, Nina.
Lots of great ideas! I love it all! I’m always careful following ever-changing trends. I try to pick what I love and try to remember “trends”, whether fashion or design, are a marketing ploy to keep us discontent, which leads us to keep spending more of our hard earned money on things we really don’t need. My advice would be don’t ever choose overly trendy things. They are always “out” a few years later!!! Go classic!
When I walked into what was going to be my new home, I walked into an open concept layout with living to the left and kitchen area to the right, and my mouth dropped to the floor in awe. Why, you may ask? Because when you walked in the first thing you saw in this open space were the floor to ceiling windows with a panoramic view of the alps and lake, running through the entire floor. It was like being greeted by a picture postcard. With so much natural light flooding in, and that majestic landscape staring back. I was smitten and I was sold. That view never gets old, and even the gloomiest of weather, there is such beauty and it is what I call 'soul good'. Nevertheless, when planning the renovations I did have my reservations as I had never lived in an open concept space, and not having a closed off kitchen was a concern, The challenge was to make everything visually cohesive, but also at the same time, making distinct spaces that could stand on their own. It is the details that make a difference, such as materials, colours, finishes, hardware, wall treatments etc that help with that. While you bring up a good point about wanting to be surprised as you move around a home, in my case, you are stunned with that magnificent view, and then as you take in the rest of the space, you experience it with how each space is used and with the details and decor you find that add interest and little elements of surprise. My questions to you are, how would you go about decorating an open concept space, what elements would you incorporate, how would you treat colour, would you repeat materials, and how would you create distinct areas? What are some of your favourite things to do with an open concept layout?
Can you do a video for regular folks like me, that’s already living with an open concept kitchen? What can we do that doesn’t involve moving out, buying or building a new house?!😂
What are your colours? Things have moved from grey to black & white (cold) to now opposite warm cream wood & rounded edges. Is you can add wood , paint warm, or add accessories that are wood warm as,o stone marble in warm tone. Of course the new must blend with the old what you already have. Check out Maria Kiliam who talks about identifying your fixed surfaces ( counter tops floors etc. ) & finding undertones & colours that pull it all together. Short answer bring in warm & wood.
I never bought into the open shelving for kitchens primarily for the reason you mention about not being able to keep things dust free and clean. Unless you are using all those items every day, there is going to be a natural build up of dust and stickiness and even dead insects, and the extra work of wiping down each item before using or setting a table did not appeal to me. Having said that, I do enjoy seeing a shelf or two where a decor vignette can be arranged, for example with items like a small painting, wooden boards, seasonal items, all which add visual interest and moods that can be changed whenever you feel like it.
Long time viewer, first time commenting… I adore your content and all the exquisite eye candy you shower us with each week! I agree… white kitchens are stepping aside, and I never really cared for them WHEN the kitchen is open to the family living space. I still think a separate kitchen looks incredible in white or, even better, some sort of buttercream shade. BTW we put our microwave in the pantry and ever since I have realized how very little we even use it… basically to warm up my coffee or to make popcorn 😐 Lots of love from Sunny Las Vegas!! XXOO
Lamps and cute decorations on your kitchen counter are nice, but when you're serious about cooking, they really get in the way and are annoying. I have a fairly large kitchen, and I cook a ton. I need every little square inch I can possibly get. 😂 I do make big meals, including making my own bread, pasta, etc. I'm seriously thinking about ditching my counter decor. It's not much, but I could really use the space. 😂
Great content, thanks. But what s the story with open space flooring for the kitchen ?? : do you keep the same wooden floor throughout or can we switch to tiles for the kitchen area ? if so, how should this be done ?
One surprise for me is the open concept kitchen. I currently have a kitchen that is in it's own room, and it feels really isolating when I cook. And cooking smell still gets into every room.
Many kitchens here in Europe have doors to the kitchen to keep out the noise/smells. We have a pocket door for example. I love going to the living room and it's clean, quiet while the kitchen is a mess
I understand how you’re feeling. I certainly could see how you would feel isolated. I always recommend turning on your vent to extract as much of the cooking odor as possible. With that said there is no right or wrong in Design. Thank you so much for watching.
Rounded cabinets are a new one for me. Beautiful but way out of my price range. Just spent as high as my budget would allow for walnut cabinets and im so happy.
Could you provide links to your inspo photos featured in your videos in the show notes? I’m always swooning and would love to be able to save/pin them. Thank you.
@@NinaTakesh I agree! That would be so helpful! I absolutely love the kitchen featured at 18:43 in your video. Do you happen to have a source for that photo? I would LOVE to find out where I could order those pendant lights . . . 😍
I want to upgrade our 1949 isle kitchen. However, there isn’t enough space to grow it. However, I am like you, I value quality or quantity. I have the dreaded over the stove microwave. I plan on removing it and creating a beautiful vent hood. I am grateful it is wood cabinets and not painted. I think the next thing to do would be to replace the hardware. The previous owners did push into the bedroom behind it to inset the refrigerator and that left an inset desk area in the bedroom. I’m thinking of pushing into that space again to build in a small pantry with glass & wood doors with a unlacqured brass Cremone.
Regarding microwaves, I haven't had one in 30 years and have not missed it at all in my kitchen, and I have had high end kitchens with La Cornue ovens, steamers, wall ovens, warming drawers (which I usually end up using as storage for bread) and rotisserie all installed at once. But a microwave was one appliance that was never used. I warm up my foods in the ovens or stovetop, defrost the old fashioned way in the fridge or sink, and I always make the best popcorn on the stove using olive oil and a covered pot in less than 4 minutes. So, I honestly do not understand the obsession with having a microwave as a must have kitchen appliance. Truly, what are they really used for?
interesting on the rounded cabinetry! i have a super small kitchen (72 sq ft) that was recently remodeled. i did remove the micro from above the range and tucked it into a corner cabinet. i also installed an awesome open glass monty shelf/bracket by iron abode. def check out their products! now i have to figure out how to style it. i'm thinking plants and art? and yes, would love more guidance around high quality furniture. it seems so hard to find. i did order a few items from RH and so far it seems like decent quality? lastly i love your shoes!!
Nina, on another topic, I have been thinking about a washable rug, but have hesitated to order something sight unseen that might turn out to be of dubious quality. But I see you have some beautiful designs with Ruggable. I doubt very much you would be associated with anything shoddy, so I’m concluding I can be confident ordering from this company. Cheers from Australia. 🇦🇺
You are absolutely right. He will love the rugs. In fact, I have them in my house. Make sure and get the toughed version. The standard tufted is very nice. Thank you for your support. ❤️
Regarding an open concept layout, I think it might be more beneficial to discuss ways that can enhance its space rather than declaring that it is no longer a viable 'trend'. Offering ways on how to incorporate current trends, or how to make an open concept work in a cohesive yet visually interesting way would also be more helpful than just declaring open concepts kitchen and living rooms are dead and a thing of the past. Just. a thought, as being able to renovate home layouts is not as viable as say, changing paint colours, finishes, hardware, flooring, furniture etc.
Love the sexy leg art statement on your living room table ! I have the choice building a new home- to have an open kitchen with two side counters that have 3 seats each or put in an island. Went to the model and it seems like a long walk over to the pantry and other cabinets when there is no island. I want to do alot of entertaining but not sure if I want all the distractions right there where I’m cooking. For casual no big deal food I guess it’s ok. Do you have any thoughts ? I’d greatly appreciate them. I think builder will give me 3.5 feet from wall cabinet to island cabinet.
I must clarify my comment regarding CB2. I often shop at CB2 and love so many of their items. I do not find their items to be cheap, but rather in comparison to a designer showroom, they might be less expensive. Thank you for watching.
All these islands are one sided like a dinner countertop. Why can’t your island on one end is business the other end a dining table? I’m getting ready to build a home and the kitchen is designed around that. FYI you read my mind to make look like a furniture piece
"inexpensive CB2 furniture" !?....even when i was able to afford it in the past I thought I was buying the expensive staff....I guess we live in a very different planets....
You’re critiquing open plan kitchens as not offering a sense of discovery and impractical due to smell ? I think you should caveat that with: do what works with your lifestyle. Also, you’re still doing open shelving…that is textbook impractical. Candidly, I was not impressed with your taste in sofas. If your furniture collection includes bubble sofas, color me unimpressed because that is anything but timeless.
Hi, I definitely appreciate your candor. I do always believe that people should live in an environment that makes them happy whether it’s an open concept or not. So I hope you understand that this was just an opinion and certainly not a rule. Thank you for watching and I appreciate the time you took to watch this video and comment. ❤️
I have a WHITE KITCHEN & I will NEVER….get tired of it!!!
WHITE KITCHENS are TIMELESS & CLASSY!!
🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍
And that’s why we keep designing them. Thank you for weighing in.
Totally agree Rosie. It’s a great background for pops of colour
... and boring ! eheh
This has been one of my favorite episodes, which is of course a high bar! I guess talking about kitchens is always so fun. The kitchens you featured were beautiful. Have a good week Nina❤❤. And thank you~
Thank you, Tracy that means so much to me. Have a wonderful week ahead.
I have a beautiful renovated small galley kitchen in my condo. Can’t afford to lose drawer space and a microwave is a must for me. So above the range it is. BTW I did get the sleekest microwave that I could find to help keep the “eye sore” at a minimum!)
It sounds like you have a great plan!
Waterfall island if designed properly to invite guests and serve as a central space is timeless. It’s also more functional. So in space constrained areas it will always work. Dimensions are important. Wider for the dining portion with cabinets to maximize space. Built in power options. Also, decorate it to be inviting like you mention.
The last two were absolutely new to me: dovetailed cabinet drawer faces and rounded cabinets. I love that you featured antique or furniture pieces for islands, along with rounded edge countertops. “Discovering” rooms is a lovely conceptualization. Your kitchen ideas are always next level, Nina.
Thank you for watching!
I’m making my new kitchen with a rounded island and now I’m happy that round kitchen furniture will be in this year 🫶🏼
Yay!!!
And won't YOU be surprised and disappointed next year when they tell you it's "out".
Love the exposed dovetailing!
Cb2 furniture is amazing quality in my opinion. I have so many of their pieces and the are very solidly built.
Love, love the new island so beautiful. Thanks for the great show, see you next week.
The visible dovetailing is something I hadn't seen before. LOVE IT. Thanks for the heads up!
Lots of great ideas! I love it all! I’m always careful following ever-changing trends. I try to pick what I love and try to remember “trends”, whether fashion or design, are a marketing ploy to keep us discontent, which leads us to keep spending more of our hard earned money on things we really don’t need. My advice would be don’t ever choose overly trendy things. They are always “out” a few years later!!! Go classic!
You're so right about trends! Classic design is always the best choice. ❤️
When I walked into what was going to be my new home, I walked into an open concept layout with living to the left and kitchen area to the right, and my mouth dropped to the floor in awe. Why, you may ask? Because when you walked in the first thing you saw in this open space were the floor to ceiling windows with a panoramic view of the alps and lake, running through the entire floor. It was like being greeted by a picture postcard. With so much natural light flooding in, and that majestic landscape staring back. I was smitten and I was sold. That view never gets old, and even the gloomiest of weather, there is such beauty and it is what I call 'soul good'. Nevertheless, when planning the renovations I did have my reservations as I had never lived in an open concept space, and not having a closed off kitchen was a concern, The challenge was to make everything visually cohesive, but also at the same time, making distinct spaces that could stand on their own. It is the details that make a difference, such as materials, colours, finishes, hardware, wall treatments etc that help with that. While you bring up a good point about wanting to be surprised as you move around a home, in my case, you are stunned with that magnificent view, and then as you take in the rest of the space, you experience it with how each space is used and with the details and decor you find that add interest and little elements of surprise. My questions to you are, how would you go about decorating an open concept space, what elements would you incorporate, how would you treat colour, would you repeat materials, and how would you create distinct areas? What are some of your favourite things to do with an open concept layout?
Just found you on TH-cam. Just had to say how well spoken you are! Love the content too!
Coco, thank you so much you made my day. We’re so glad to have you in our community. ❤️
Can you do a video for regular folks like me, that’s already living with an open concept kitchen? What can we do that doesn’t involve moving out, buying or building a new house?!😂
🤣🤣 yes of course. ❤️
What are your colours? Things have moved from grey to black & white (cold) to now opposite warm cream wood & rounded edges. Is you can add wood , paint warm, or add accessories that are wood warm as,o stone marble in warm tone. Of course the new must blend with the old what you already have. Check out Maria Kiliam who talks about identifying your fixed surfaces ( counter tops floors etc. ) & finding undertones & colours that pull it all together. Short answer bring in warm & wood.
I never bought into the open shelving for kitchens primarily for the reason you mention about not being able to keep things dust free and clean. Unless you are using all those items every day, there is going to be a natural build up of dust and stickiness and even dead insects, and the extra work of wiping down each item before using or setting a table did not appeal to me. Having said that, I do enjoy seeing a shelf or two where a decor vignette can be arranged, for example with items like a small painting, wooden boards, seasonal items, all which add visual interest and moods that can be changed whenever you feel like it.
I love my microwave drawer on my island. It's so much easier than lifting hot things over your head and looks so much better.
I totally agree!
Long time viewer, first time commenting… I adore your content and all the exquisite eye candy you shower us with each week!
I agree… white kitchens are stepping aside, and I never really cared for them WHEN the kitchen is open to the family living space. I still think a separate kitchen looks incredible in white or, even better, some sort of buttercream shade.
BTW we put our microwave in the pantry and ever since I have realized how very little we even use it… basically to warm up my coffee or to make popcorn 😐
Lots of love from Sunny Las Vegas!! XXOO
Thank you, Joey. I’m so glad that you shared a little bit of your story with us. Have a wonderful week ahead. ❤️
the ‘exposed’ dove tail detailing is gorgeous! thank you for featuring it.
also, could work for a range of styles from rustic to modern. (imo)
Our pleasure!
But, where do I get it? I've never seen it before.
Thank you so much for mentioning the dovetailing on the front of the kitchen cabinets. That is definitely a wow piece.
It's a beautiful detail, isn't it?
Lamps and cute decorations on your kitchen counter are nice, but when you're serious about cooking, they really get in the way and are annoying. I have a fairly large kitchen, and I cook a ton. I need every little square inch I can possibly get. 😂 I do make big meals, including making my own bread, pasta, etc. I'm seriously thinking about ditching my counter decor. It's not much, but I could really use the space. 😂
Great content, thanks. But what s the story with open space flooring for the kitchen ?? : do you keep the same wooden floor throughout or can we switch to tiles for the kitchen area ? if so, how should this be done ?
One surprise for me is the open concept kitchen. I currently have a kitchen that is in it's own room, and it feels really isolating when I cook. And cooking smell still gets into every room.
Many kitchens here in Europe have doors to the kitchen to keep out the noise/smells. We have a pocket door for example. I love going to the living room and it's clean, quiet while the kitchen is a mess
I understand how you’re feeling. I certainly could see how you would feel isolated. I always recommend turning on your vent to extract as much of the cooking odor as possible. With that said there is no right or wrong in Design. Thank you so much for watching.
Furniture pieces for a kitchen island is pretty dope🤘🏽👍🏽👏🏽
I love using furniture pieces in a kitchen!
Dovetail details at the front of kitchen cabinets was a beautiful surprise for me!
I'm so glad you enjoyed that detail!
Rounded cabinets are a new one for me. Beautiful but way out of my price range. Just spent as high as my budget would allow for walnut cabinets and im so happy.
I hear you - walnut is so beautiful!
I had never seen exposed dovetailing! Love it, but I bet it is expensive.
Looks very expensive!
Could you provide links to your inspo photos featured in your videos in the show notes? I’m always swooning and would love to be able to save/pin them. Thank you.
That's a great idea!
@@NinaTakesh I agree! That would be so helpful! I absolutely love the kitchen featured at 18:43 in your video. Do you happen to have a source for that photo? I would LOVE to find out where I could order those pendant lights . . . 😍
I want to upgrade our 1949 isle kitchen. However, there isn’t enough space to grow it. However, I am like you, I value quality or quantity. I have the dreaded over the stove microwave. I plan on removing it and creating a beautiful vent hood. I am grateful it is wood cabinets and not painted. I think the next thing to do would be to replace the hardware. The previous owners did push into the bedroom behind it to inset the refrigerator and that left an inset desk area in the bedroom. I’m thinking of pushing into that space again to build in a small pantry with glass & wood doors with a unlacqured brass Cremone.
I love that you are focusing on quality over quantity! I know you will make amazing choices that reflect your style.
The one topic I was surprised by is that a kitchen open to the great room is no longer desirable. Shocker :(
Regarding microwaves, I haven't had one in 30 years and have not missed it at all in my kitchen, and I have had high end kitchens with La Cornue ovens, steamers, wall ovens, warming drawers (which I usually end up using as storage for bread) and rotisserie all installed at once. But a microwave was one appliance that was never used. I warm up my foods in the ovens or stovetop, defrost the old fashioned way in the fridge or sink, and I always make the best popcorn on the stove using olive oil and a covered pot in less than 4 minutes. So, I honestly do not understand the obsession with having a microwave as a must have kitchen appliance. Truly, what are they really used for?
I reheat coffee ☕️. Smile other than that it sits
😂it s for people that do not have « La Cornue « 😂😂
interesting on the rounded cabinetry! i have a super small kitchen (72 sq ft) that was recently remodeled. i did remove the micro from above the range and tucked it into a corner cabinet. i also installed an awesome open glass monty shelf/bracket by iron abode. def check out their products! now i have to figure out how to style it. i'm thinking plants and art? and yes, would love more guidance around high quality furniture. it seems so hard to find. i did order a few items from RH and so far it seems like decent quality? lastly i love your shoes!!
Thank you so much!! I’m so glad you removed the microwave. I’m sure your new kitchen looks amazing. Thank you for being a part of our community.
Nina, on another topic, I have been thinking about a washable rug, but have hesitated to order something sight unseen that might turn out to be of dubious quality. But I see you have some beautiful designs with Ruggable. I doubt very much you would be associated with anything shoddy, so I’m concluding I can be confident ordering from this company. Cheers from Australia. 🇦🇺
You are absolutely right. He will love the rugs. In fact, I have them in my house. Make sure and get the toughed version. The standard tufted is very nice. Thank you for your support. ❤️
Regarding an open concept layout, I think it might be more beneficial to discuss ways that can enhance its space rather than declaring that it is no longer a viable 'trend'. Offering ways on how to incorporate current trends, or how to make an open concept work in a cohesive yet visually interesting way would also be more helpful than just declaring open concepts kitchen and living rooms are dead and a thing of the past. Just. a thought, as being able to renovate home layouts is not as viable as say, changing paint colours, finishes, hardware, flooring, furniture etc.
Dove tail fronts
Great content, of course I subscribed
Those legs on the table I had to look twice for a second🤣🤣
😂
I don't care about the microwave. I don't want to lose drawer/cabinet space.
Same, my kitchen is so small, there is no place to hide a microwave so it’s a no brainer, over the oven it goes.
Micro wave be gone why have one ? Takes up too much space heat on the stove top, steam or oven.
Love the sexy leg art statement on your living room table !
I have the choice building a new home- to have an open kitchen with two side counters that have
3 seats each or put in an island. Went to the model and it seems like a long walk over to the pantry and other cabinets when there is no island. I want to do alot of entertaining but not sure if I want all the distractions right there where I’m cooking. For casual no big deal food I guess it’s ok. Do you have any thoughts ?
I’d greatly appreciate them. I think builder will give me 3.5 feet from wall cabinet to island cabinet.
Hey dont knock CB2 😂
CB2 is cheap??? Geez. I cant even afford CB2.
Don’t worry about it put in your home what makes you happy end of story
I must clarify my comment regarding CB2. I often shop at CB2 and love so many of their items. I do not find their items to be cheap, but rather in comparison to a designer showroom, they might be less expensive. Thank you for watching.
All these islands are one sided like a dinner countertop. Why can’t your island on one end is business the other end a dining table? I’m getting ready to build a home and the kitchen is designed around that. FYI you read my mind to make look like a furniture piece
It's very American to put a microwave above a free-standing cooker, its not something that we do in Europe.
Dove tail
So good!
👍
I think following trends should be the thing that officially out for 2025 🙄
Secondary kitchen. Was once a butler pantry of sorts now with more embellishments. Really ?
Yes, you are right!!!
What about what your clients like, not just what you like? Lol
Ok
Let’s see 2026 - microwaves back , white kitchens back - trends are trends
Totally agree
What’s on your coffee table ???? That’s soooo tasteless , take it off if you want people to listen about kitchens .
I agree with you completely. I was thinking maybe she is a gynecologist or maybe she’s selling stockings?
Oh hush, your mind is in the gutter, she is waiting for her gynecologist!
"inexpensive CB2 furniture" !?....even when i was able to afford it in the past I thought I was buying the expensive staff....I guess we live in a very different planets....
You’re critiquing open plan kitchens as not offering a sense of discovery and impractical due to smell ? I think you should caveat that with: do what works with your lifestyle. Also, you’re still doing open shelving…that is textbook impractical. Candidly, I was not impressed with your taste in sofas. If your furniture collection includes bubble sofas, color me unimpressed because that is anything but timeless.
Hi, I definitely appreciate your candor. I do always believe that people should live in an environment that makes them happy whether it’s an open concept or not. So I hope you understand that this was just an opinion and certainly not a rule. Thank you for watching and I appreciate the time you took to watch this video and comment. ❤️