10 DESIGN TRENDS THAT ARE DATING YOUR HOME + HOW TO FIX THEM

[@KristenMcGowan]

Happy Sunday Everyone!!🏡 I hope this gives you some ideas you can use to update your home!! STAY TUNED FOR THE APARTMENT MAKEOVER I'M WORKING ON GOING LIVE THIS WEDNESDAY!!

[@mariamangion21]

So excited ❤❤

[@MisforMakeup]

Happy Sunday ❤ Kristen

[@lynns133]

Where is link to heat resistant paints?

[@KristenMcGowan]

@@lynns133 sorry about that! Just added the links :) amzn.to/406CZ1n

[@justinalopez3250]

Where did you get that long curved white decrotive bowl in the first scene? This video was awesome

[@helene420]

Hiding the microwave or lowering it may look better but seems super inconvenient 👀

[@arcy5798]

FUNCTION goes first!!!

[@waynefox6615]

Agree, a kitchen is the main operation center of a home, function over design every time.

[@honeytranful]

There are these new microwaves where you pull it out like a drawer so it opens from the top

[@wisteria808]

Not getting rid of my wall niches -- I use them to highlight some very dramatic black-and-white photography in my 17 ft. foyer. The niche areas are framed in wood, and I have the backs painted matte-black, with lighting. It's actually stunning and one of the features of my home that is complimented most.

[@flyingwind66]

omg that sounds so cool! I'm mentally filing that away as a design aesthetic I would totally try!

[@ashleykelly3279]

I have always loved niches

[@epstyle2883]

Not getting rid of mine either. I totally disagree with her on most of these ideas.

[@LW0214]

Love my niche and would never get rid of it!

[@shanmoj1]

Can you kindly share pictures as I’ve been looking for ideas ? Ty so much

[@brendapyron459]

I'm a person that has very specific ideas about what I like and couldn't be less interested whether it's "in" or not. For instance in Texas where it can reach 110 degrees in summer I would never not have ceiling fans. To each his own I guess.

[@jeanking161]

I moved my microwave to below and it is completely impractical-think twice before taking that step to update your kitchen. The microwaves that are inserted below are typically several inches shorter, so many containers won’t fit (Starbucks Venti cup for instance). Agree it’s a more pleasing look, but everyone in the family was annoyed and unhappy with the microwave below within two weeks.

[@despinakyraleos2234]

and over the range could be too high for some people ( me) . I find on the counter is best ( buy a cute retro one) until you have a major reno, and have your designer somehow place it in a place that is practical.

[@tinamoore5497]

Mine is in the cabinet below , and it is a standard size , I I love it!

[@claudiakarl7888]

Mine is above the oven (which is already placed at a convenient height), I love that solution. Both devices are integrated in a high cabinet. An usual solution in Germany.

[@vaderladyl]

I like mine over the range, best location for me.

[@justanothergigi]

Most microwaves are not supposed to be put in a cabinet. One of the examples in this video shows one that could have ventilation issues and void any warranty. Very few are built to be placed in a cabinet if they aren't the drawer type.

[@lauradevries7033]

Kristen, I agree with all but one of your Suggestions and that is the microwave over the cooktop. Our home is a 1000 sq ft midcentury modern with a tiny kitchen. Cabinets are limited so there is no option to use a cabinet to hide the microwave. We debated even keeping the microwave when we did our kitchen renovation. Decided to keep, our only option was above stove. It doesn’t date our kitchen at all and is very convenient.

[@divitiae]

Agreed - I have a very small kitchen in an apartment. I'd rather use cabinet space and countertops for practical storage and use, rather than fitting an aesthetic.

[@natvtxn1213]

I love that you include examples for us to visually see your vision.

[@5mullys]

I totally agree with you on all of these trends except the nursery/kids rooms. My son is 8 and wants a room full of airplanes, to include an airplane ceiling fan. He dreams of being a pilot. He won't be 8 forever and if it makes him happy, then I'm all for it. I want his space to to spark joy and creativity. I can transition the room when he outgrows it.

[@KristenMcGowan]

Absolutely!! If your kids have something in mind for their own space go for it!! I remember my parents letting me do whatever I wanted to my room and it made me so happy! Just sharing trends I’ve been noticing in design! 😊

[@helene420]

I think this is true for kids a little older like yours, when they are infants/toddlers, if I had kids, I'd keep the wall colors simpler until they were old enough and ready to personalize it. My sister wanted a mural w rainbows all along one wall at some point and it was really fun creating that. Eventually we painted over it when she was tired of it.

[@hikingwiththedog6078]

And if he does grow up to be a pilot, he'll thank you for having been so supportive of his goals! I'm from a family of pilots, I admire your son's dreams!

[@ashab2003]

@helene8814 I totally agree with you. Kids rooms should be fun and full of character that reflects the child. However I understand the designer’s point of view.

[@trevnti]

@@helene420 a good between is neutral wall color plus the peel and stick murals/art work. We kept all the walls a neutral/warm white we just added peel and stick murals from etsy (one took up a whole wall), when we wanted to change it, a blow dryer and it peeled right off.

[@jcr1382]

Agreed with everything but the microwave. Thanks for the suggestions and the videos.

[@Nzmrd]

I totally still love the wall niches, no need to cover them up!!!!!

[@wisteria808]

Not getting rid of my wall niches -- I use them to highlight some very dramatic black-and-white photography in my 17 ft. foyer. The niche areas are framed in wood, and I have the backs painted matte-black, with lighting. It's actually stunning and one of the features of my home that is complimented most.

[@KathleenKelleyFox]

They are not “out” because they are in brand new luxury homes currently being built and most see them as this way.

[@anabelharos643]

I love wall niches

[@dawnt5587]

I was prepared to not agree with you on most things but I agree with you on everything. However, our microwave is above our stove and we bought our house fully remodeled. There is no where else for it to go. My husband has seen microwaves in the lower cabinets but doesn’t like it because it’s awkward to use. So, I guess it’s staying above the stove.

[@KristenMcGowan]

Yes it’s definitely a good space saving decision for kitchens lol I have a microwave above my stove too!! I just look at it everyday wishing it wasn’t installed there lol!

[@9384cows]

Not only that but when there are tall people in your house it is hard to bend over or stoop and mist importantly to read the controls. We just remodeled and put the microwave in its own cabinet right above the pot and pan cabinet. I put a gorgeous hood over my stove and everything looks great. I designed it all myself and everyone wants to know who my decorator is.

[@MyFocusVaries]

I've always wondered how it works practically. If you're cooking on the stove top, I feel like it's a bit of a hazard reaching over that to use the microwave. Our microwave is in a mid upper cupboard and I still feel that lifting a bowl of hot liquid down is a minor hazard. I'm thinking that for a future update, the microwave could be in an appliance garage at counter height.

[@CathyS_Bx]

My back aches just picturing a microwave in a low cabinet! In a small apt. galley kitchen like mine, above the stove is the only workable place.

[@dawnt5587]

@@MyFocusVaries I’m 57 and have not had a problem once with using the microwave while cooking on the stove. Also, the microwave is not so high up that you can’t easily remove items. Maybe if you are really short it could be an issue.

[@pollymeyer2287]

I really like brass fire place, I even decorate all metal parts with brass because of it

[@michellem434]

Me too! Brass is popular now I don't think it dates at all

[@vaderladyl]

Yes I think is lovely as well.

[@marenkendall7413]

Hot take- wall niches are SO COOL and brass will be back in style in no time and people are going to try to be removing that paint in 10 years haha

[@laurettaberger442]

I have one niche in my house and I love it! I think the problem is when a house has too many! 😊

[@jv-ep2tc]

I have a friend with an amazing townhouse in the east 80s. the stairs connect the 3 levels. Each wall at the stairs has a niche. It was a thing 100 years ago too. Depending on your home, I wouldn't worry about it.

[@aquablue02]

Love a wall nook. New homes are still being built with those.

[@rebeccarendle3706]

You can have a "theme nursery or kids room" which depicts THE KIDS INTERESTS and has longevity!... just keep the core big pieces neutral ie.. white walls, wood floors, white or light wood furniture... then change up the pictures, bedding, rug etc for the kids interest.. my kids went from baby Winnie-the-poo theme to Wickie the Vicking, to Cars, to Minecraft, to StarWars, to Avengers and finally to a non-theme young adult room as teenagers. I never changed out the walls, floors and furniture... just the soft furnishings and accessories. .. White walls, wooden floors and good quality wooden furniture (we like light in northern Europe/Scandinavia) is a must in ALL rooms of the house.. keeping it light and avoiding "trends" that you can get tired of and that make your home dated.

[@chrysvest4746]

I love almost every tip you mentioned, with the exception of the microwave over the stove. I love mine there and wouldn’t change it. As far as nurseries go, trends change so, even though I love a neutral nursery now, kids are going to want a change down the road no matter what you do.

[@shockwave1126]

Same here. If they're lower- more prone to spilling. Plus kids/dog might come near it as you take hot food out- yea, no.

[@tiffanyvaughan]

I went with neutral for all 3 of my kids nurseries. I kept the wall colors either white or a soft grey and then used framed pictures, blankets, sheets and stuffed animals to give a “theme”. Now that my kids are growing out of the more baby/toddler themes, it’s going to be super easy to change the look of their bedroom. A color consultant tried to talk me into painting my daughters nursery a pink color and I’m so glad I didn’t follow her advice. I’ve added plenty of color through wall decor and blankets and pillows and it will be a breeze to update as she gets older.

[@Christelle-i6e]

I think often designers are excellent on giving advice on trends and styling a space, but most don't think enough about practicality or sensory needs that people may have. It has to work for you. I think so much of the modern designs are going minimalist and "greige" which ends up being monotone. I love the resurgence of maximalism I've been seeing online and the unique ways people come up to make their home feel like "them". Nothing lasts it seems! Give this all 6-8 years and it all ends up looking ridiculous too lol

[@donnaparker3608]

Thanks Kristen. Just asked my cabinet guy to do inset overlays just in time for my renovation. I like that look.

[@carolyncook3611]

I have two brass strips around my fireplace which I like because I have vintage mahogany and cherry furniture with older lamps that have touches of brass on them. I could easily remove the brass strips because they are just magnetized, but I prefer the look of the brass trim. Our home had been updated throughout when we bought it 6 months ago, but it still has the brass doorknobs, which I like. Previous owner also had a few brass wall switchplates which I've kept. I love some brass trim, what used to be called Williamsburg polished brass. To me it is timeless especially if you have older ultra traditional furniture. I do understand younger people's desire to be very modern, just not for me.

[@DonnasBananaBreads]

And brass is actually in now!

[@winniejack2492]

I have a lot cause my home was built I 2006. I don’t plan to renovate. Any home u get will eventually get dated and who knows the trend will come right back. Keeping up with the jones will overtime cost. Best to keep your home updated with decor and clean.

[@vaderladyl]

I agree.

[@marybedwell4065]

100% agree

[@betterlivingonabudget]

I updated our fireplace a few years ago by painting the bricks white,and used the black fire-resistant spray paint on the surround. What a tremendous difference, it truly helped sell the house. I will caution anyone using the spray paint that there is a huge amount of overspray, so plan on putting tarps on every inch of flooring, the brick/stone, etc., and cover all furniture/decor items that are within ten feet of the FP.

[@kimberlindy]

I was thinking the same thing, like is spray painting inside a really good idea.

[@betterlivingonabudget]

@@kimberlindy - I learned after the fact that it's really NOT a good idea if you can pull out the insert and take it outside, but some FP that isn't possible. I couldn't the heat-proof paint in any other form than the spray.

[@signespencer6887]

I have a very thin accent tile- less than 1” high and I still love it.

[@mariahmione4563]

I wish my house had wall niches! That would be so fun to decorate and it would probably be out of reach of my toddlers

[@wisteria808]

Not getting rid of my wall niches -- I use them to highlight some very dramatic black-and-white photography in my 17 ft. foyer. The niche areas are framed in wood, and I have the backs painted matte-black, with lighting. It's actually stunning and one of the features of my home that is complimented most.

[@marian1633]

My problem is I dont like modern and love outdated. But most people like more modern I think, so if I wanted to sell my home I would modernise. But I m not selling so I keep it like it is.

[@phangirlable]

Same. Or rather, I like timeless styles like and eclectic mix of Victorian (and a bit of the morbid/Gothic), 50s - 70s classics and neutral modern. I don't know what that would be called, I just know I don't follow home trends. lol

[@leeleemaggs1347]

😄 then there is no problem. 🙂

[@michellebarnett4994]

I have a mix of French country, mixed wood furniture, and a little farmhouse. I don't do trendy generally. I just have fun with what I enjoy. I don't own a tiered tray or dough bowl and don't plan to, and no darn grey!!!😂😻

[@marievogt4705]

Kitchens are very expensive to update, so even if you do update with a more trendy look after about 5 years, it too will be dated. Change out your decor. Use a different color scheme maybe paint. These are all things you can do to freshen up your space without spending a fortune.

[@sarge7526]

Is it called “updating” or “keeping up with ……” Maintenance updates and upgrades… I can definitely agree with…but trying to keep up with latest trends… will keep you spending money

[@karenalsbury167]

These tips are wonderful. Thank you.

[@blackwaltz2363]

The "high end designer kitchen" look is for people who don't cook. For people who actually use their kitchens daily, convenience and having everything within arms reach is considerably more "modern" than hiding everything for the sake of appearance.

[@vernugt]

Inset cabinets look super high end but are more likely to scratch in my experience. Full overlay maximizes space and more practical IMO.

[@qhudsia]

Thank you for addressing the wall cut-outs! I have them and never know what to do with them... covering them is a great idea

[@psyche8187]

A wall niche is great. Sure, they were really popular during a certain time. But they can be great. We have two that are useful for two reasons. 1. The one downstairs is in the foyer and allows for the bench for drop-off stuff to be recessed rather than blocking the flow of traffic. 2. The one upstairs is also in a hallway and it has a deep ledge. It’s between the kids rooms, so we can use it as a drop off point if needed. We have a row of books and usually a vase of flowers on it too. They are definitely a plus. The only wall niches that I think are dumb are the dust-catchers that are way too high to be useful for anything.

[@margaret77494]

I have never understood people who put microwaves down low. In an island. I cannot bend over that far and I’m only 5’4”

[@dija5578]

Not to mention dangerous for little hands that want to press buttons and turn things on..

[@lindaball403]

I love the inlay cabinets.

[@pam6367]

We are slowly refreshing our home starting with the gold fireplace trim, inside railing and black & gold jacuzzi tub that’s so outdated.

[@lieslnew8247]

Removing the kitchen bulkhead makes such a huge difference. ❤

[@sabrinamariesayre]

You know what I think is important? Being comfortable in your own home whether it’s dated or not!

[@lottie1144]

Absolutely! I think Kristen’s tips are for people who enjoy having their fashion/home interior decor up to date.

[@vaderladyl]

Dated is so subjective. Many so called dated things are not really dated plus can be worked into your decor if you really like them just the way they are.

[@vaderladyl]

@@lottie1144 More like what the industry is pushing you to get so they can make money from you.

[@bridiesmith460]

My home comes back into fashion every few years so no need to reinvent the wheel.

[@wisteria808]

Struggling to keep your home on-trend at all times means more items heading for the landfills. Not good for our environment.

[@geniusjen78]

Love the observations! Microwaves are a bit unsightly. I feel tha if one has the space, the best place for one is an appliance garage or a Butler's pantry. Mine is above the stove. Since the trend of moving them to a lower cabinet there are drawer style microwaves. Those are better but still there are issues for many dealing with an appliance so low. To each their own! ❤

[@folsombarbie]

Love this video. However the microwave above the stove, i love mines and would not change it.

[@wendyhammond2957]

Thank you..I agree about hiding the microwave!! You said it and that gives me permission to Take It Down!! Lololo! I love your channel!! Keep sharing..Thank you!!😊🤗😚💕💖💗💖💕💗💗💖💕💕💗💖💕💕

[@dianayukindez7857]

Actually, in Sweden we don´t have wall nishes in our walls, so we see it like a luxury to have in a house. Thats one of the reason we use IKEA Kallax everywhere to sort of create that feeling of shelfs on a wall.

[@brendatomlinson]

LOVE the Kallax!

[@LivingUpright]

I was shocked when she said that! I think they are very much in, and also beautiful!

[@wisteria808]

Yes, not getting rid of my wall niches -- I use them to highlight some very dramatic black-and-white photography in my 17 ft. foyer. The niche areas are framed in wood, and I have the backs painted matte-black, with lighting. It's actually stunning and one of the features of my home that is complimented most.

[@rosgeall]

I would love to have wall niches.

[@linscott5515]

@@wisteria808 Sounds beautiful!

[@paytonlescalleet9714]

I like themed nursery no matter what it looks like they will always want it a different way when they are old enuf to have there own interests so you should have fun with it while you can

[@ShelleB]

I totally agree with you about the cabinets above a peninsula. My in-laws have that arrangement and I’m always stooping to talk to them through the available space. However, they have nowhere else to put all of the stuff that’s in those cabinets so they will remain in place. It would take a major reno to reconfigure and they won’t do that.

[@kimberlindy]

My in-laws have that as well, as well as every possible outdated kitchen item. It's like a 1979 time capsule.

[@blendartistdotcom]

Home is not just a place, it's a feeling. It's where we share love, laughter, and create memories that last a lifetime. Let's make our homes a reflection of who we are and what we love."

[@nonawolf7495]

Love the idea of painting the brass strip on the fireplace front - pure genius!

[@johannechampagne7332]

I took down the overhead peninsula cabinetry and slightly widened the peninsula which allowed for additional shallow cabinets on the other side and I added a set of drawers on the outside of the peninsula in the corner instead of a lazy Susan you would access from the inner corner (if that makes sense).

[@gloriaalex11]

That's a good idea. A lot of people leave the cabinets up because they don't want to lose the storage space.

[@brendatomlinson]

It makes sense to me and is a great, practical solution! I’ve never had too many drawers in any home.

[@brendathosath3983]

I’ve made most of these changes and agree! We did keep the microwave over the stove at this point, but would have preferred bringing it to a lower space.

[@beachysands4036]

You could have filmed my kitchen for each element you discussed. 😂 It’s got it all!!

[@doloresleonard2227]

As a pediatrician, several of your nursery pictures made me shudder, specifically those with a picture wall or several framed pictures right above or next to the crib. Decor is one thing; creating possible dangers for curious toddlers is something else. Ditto to attached wall shelves that children can try to climb. Just don't!

[@surpriseitsus9622]

Thank you, as a retired paramedic, I agree 👍

[@hejiranyc]

Totally disagree with hiding the microwave. If you have a sleek, well-designed microwave, show it off. And in the modern age, it’s the most used appliance in the kitchen and should be placed where it is most convenient -at eye level in the “triangle.”

[@ginabrow9896]

Just redid our kitchen and put the microwave above the range 😅 I agree with you!

[@willsx2]

Not to mention, not all kitchens are built to be able to vent outside or downdraft. It seems that in a small kitchen, taking up valuable cabinet or counter space with a microwave is also a problem

[@celestegrey9309]

Agree!

[@kathyfiedler4105]

I do not think everyone has or wants a "modern" house Comfortable and to your taste. Absolutely. Following trends nope. BTW I disagree with a decent number of your ideas. That's OK

[@Streamlined955]

Sorry, but microwaves are ugly. If you choose convenience over style, fine, you do you. But don’t expect others to think it looks good.

[@irmayorke9075]

Totally agree with all of it. I've done a lot of those changes in my own home.

[@susanpatton6184]

No way to remove the upper cabinets….. need the storage in small kitchen. Any other suggestions to lighten up the space besides removing them?

[@sbakes1577]

Our easy fix to cover a wall niche was to run barn wood planks lengthwise over the entire wall. Easy peasy! And now we have a beautiful accent wall.

[@mariamangion21]

I stumbled upon your channel around 2 years ago & I feel like you were brought in my life for a reason 🤩 Your videos brighten up my day & have become part of my routine. We have so much in common, so it is nice to be able to watch a youtuber that I can connect too! Missed you ❤

[@steelisellers8414]

I love when you do these videos!!! Keep it up. Wondering about sliding glass doors vs a shower curtain for a bathtub…. I feel like the track on the bathtub is so old but…. What’s the new trend?

[@j-ru5527]

❤️❤️❤️ Kristen!! I The fireplace tip was amazing!I have been wondering how to do this for years.I have gold around my fireplace and can't stand it. Thank you for another awesome video!

[@nikierohrer2001]

Practical and so helpful. God bless you Kristen!

[@slconley]

I love the timeless looks of a more neutral nursery.

[@DesignedbySmashley]

I love that you called out the wall cut outs!! I lived in my home for years before I figured out what to do with it, I ended up filming a DIY video on my channel on how to modernize that space a little bit to go with the rest of my home + added some functionality to it, so thats another option!

[@chrissyp3065]

Wow you really hit the nail on the head with so many things that make a space feel dated.

[@rosed6058]

Hi Kristen, love your videos! I agree with all except the kitchen cabinets idea you mentioned. We just re-did our entire kitchen and three bathrooms and they finished last week. I picked out the exact ones you mentioned dated a home. They look spectacular! I love the detail and I think it gives the cabinets character.😍

[@despinakyraleos2234]

most people would not know which to choose unless they see this video!

[@jessicaripko]

Totally agree. I just commented this. The photos she showed for the outdated standard overlay were super outdated kitchens. Why did she not show a modern kitchen with standard overlay doors? We did white shaker in standard overlay and it looks super modern but also classy and timeless. 😊

[@conniesisco6468]

Agreed. I have custom maple with standard overlay cabinets and they’re beautiful.

[@jeffbiddle1956]

Inset cabinets are a nightmare for nicks and scratches.

[@aisuxtime]

I always thought the same about the cabinet inlays but had no idea why. Thanks for explaining it! Great video.

[@phangirlable]

I have to admit I only watch half of the videos now if that because it has mainly been shopping/what's new at-video (most of the stores don't even exist in my country) and current home trends (that are not really useful for normal people who don't do over their home every year). I miss the DIYs and makeover. :(

[@KristenMcGowan]

Up next is an entire apartment makeover!! Going live on Wednesday!! Lots of DIY & decorating tips in that one!👏🏼❤️

[@phangirlable]

@@KristenMcGowan Yay, looking forward to it. :) Not even hoping for huge makeovers all the time, I know those are tons of work, just the occasional small makeover/DIY in between the other videos is what I miss.

[@sassysandie2865]

If I took down my overhanging cupboard I wouldn’t have anywhere to store my dishes! I hardly have any cupboards in my small kitchen.

[@DonnasBananaBreads]

Brass is actually very IN right now.

[@StefanieLegacy]

We just built 2 years ago and no one ever had the cabinet discussion you did. Not sure I would change what we did. But it's an interesting topic

[@tamiewert808]

I really dislike the cabinets above the kitchen peninsula, but taking them out will dramatically reduce issuable storage. How do people get around that issue?

[@katherinepettersson7997]

My cabinets are really out dated and alot of corners are hard to reach so I have alot of unused space and I still don't find any need for those cabinets above the peninsula 😅

[@vjhreeves]

Many designers don't care and choose aesthetics over function.

[@brenmanock]

I concur with everything. You said. Great points

[@constantineangelgutierrez1851]

I definitely agree 💯 with your ideas. I think the same. It will save tons of money 💲 and will look timeless.

[@ningyding]

Totally agree with all of your points and learned something about cabinet styles!

[@sandramckee6422]

Good morning Kristin, I have the oak orange cabinets they’re custom and my husband doesn’t wanna paint them, so what would be the best countertop color to to go with. We currently have a beige tile with cream grout.

[@KayleeJump]

Agree with the kids bedrooms and nursery’s!

[@susieheywood1267]

Holy cow!!! Those were all really great. Bummer for me, because I have a few in my house that I should change. I agree with all of them. Thanks

[@forevalynn]

Omg...u pointed out so many things that I never noticed! Thankssss.

[@carriemyers5002]

Love the video and the idea for the inset cabinets which look stylish.

[@BR-kk9qu]

This was great!! Thank you. I needed the door panels explained to me!

[@elizabethmartell3258]

Microwaves installed down below is the most ridiculous design flaw EVER

[@hopeinChrist365]

Not if your in a wheelchair

[@JessSwin214]

Exactly! I’m keeping mine above my stove.

[@elizabethmartell3258]

DUH if you are in a wheelchair!!! No one stupid enough to think that I meant otherwise

[@tammyhunter2066]

I was thinking about doing that. Why would you call it a flaw?

[@anjityy93]

Mine is… don’t really see a problem with it 🤷‍♀️

[@sherylhaglin853]

I really enjoy your videos and I learn a lot. Thank

[@MLCruz13]

Spot on

[@juliannemoser1112]

Very helpful! Thank you! We're planning a kitchen reno and I have been belaboring what accent color I would do in the backsplash. Now I know I don't need one! 🤗

[@kristalhumphreys4621]

I love your ideas girlie

[@downhomegirl5]

Kristen... if you have a busy tile backsplash can it be painted & if so what are your suggestions on that?

[@marylut6077]

I used painting sponge to apply the heat resistant black paint, paint came in tiny can.

[@vhart1979]

Blacking-out the brass on a fireplace properly, will take way longer than 1 hour!

[@vaderladyl]

And it is more prepping and work than it looks

[@patriciareeps3389]

I know shiny brass is out but burnished or antique brass is on trend. I don’t have the cabinet space to put the microwave into and the cabinets above the stove are too big for installation of the microwave. I’m stuck with it on the counter. Inset cabinets are the worst for homes with children. They get chipped and start to sag

[@minxella12]

Unless you're fixing up to sell, I say have what you want especially if you plan on being there a while.

[@danagrl64]

❤MICROWAVE ANSWER!!!

[@pattygreen915]

What do you think about the popcorn ceiling?

[@PersonalOrganizers]

I love your videos & ALL of your advice! ❤❤❤

[@jayburris6252]

Wall niches have been in house across history. Drywall niches can be dated but maybe not. It’s certainly not a cut and dry fact.

[@vaderladyl]

I agree. It is not really the niches but other factors in the house.

[@KathleenKelleyFox]

They are still being built in high end luxury homes so I’m pretty sure wall niches are still “in” lol I laughed when I heard she said this because I’m wondering where she’s getting her information from.

[@bonnierainwater4484]

I have several of these issues!! At least 1 will be an easy fix-the fireplace insert. But! My kitchen is tiny, and my microwave has Nowhere else to go. We moved it off the countertop to above the stove, and it’s just going to have to stay there. There is NO room😒

[@vaderladyl]

Leave it there, is all right.

[@lorettabaladez6851]

I love all your tips and info! I look to you as a resource and reference! Keep up the awesome work!

[@laureradloff1616]

Taking the inset out for me was really easy, four screws. I kept it out and got a a very nice black screen from Amazon and yes, big difference.

[@reebeeable]

This is really helpful. I have the overhead cabinets but will rethink them.

[@carolannnoble3981]

MW is lower cabinet is difficult to see and operate unless you’re a small child. Also a lot of bending 😂

[@livierolivares]

Hi Kristin, We renovated our kitchen 7 years ago. We have an accent tile in the middle of the backsplash... we can't afford to change the whole kitchen. What do you recommend?

[@carolyngrotaers4454]

A very informative video, Kristen. Thank you. 😀

[@kelleybishop6275]

Unfortunatly inset cabinets and drawers just don't hold up to the busy family life, they get nicked up and just don't hold up and stay nice.

[@darlazoch1309]

Love these ideas!❤