10 "Popular" Kitchen Design Ideas To Avoid

There is nothing worst then a high maintenance home! In this video I'm sharing with you 10 high maintenance kitchen trends, how to use them and what to do instead!
#kitchentrends #garrettlechic #interiordesign
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Welcome to the channel, I'm Garrett! I am formally educated with a degree in interior design. My husband and I are also real estate investors. Our videos cover many styles (not just my own), and everything from ultra luxury to the budget friendly design. We want you to have a good time watching our videos while learning a great deal of useful, and practical information.
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[@cvonsutphen]

I love that you talk about maintenance and cleanability is regards to design. I've professionally cleaned homes for over 30 years and could tell you some stories about kitchen design fails. I don't love an all white kitchen. I do like white upper cabinets and a darker color for base cabinets. I'm a fan of honed stone and matte finishes. High gloss in a kitchen can look very grimy quickly if you you don't stay on top of it.

[@tinamcivor2996]

Loved that you commented this, I clean homes too and have a list of yays and nays ready for when I design my own kitchen. My pet peeves are glass stovetops, coloured composite sinks and appliance garages on the counter.

[@sandraleigh4023]

I'm also a big fan of honed. It just has such a tactile feel to it and seems higher end to me.

[@barbararivera2380]

💖

[@palecompass3598]

These are helpful comments. Thanks! I've always thought glossy tile would be easier to clean than matte or honed. This changes my tile plans. Thanks a million!

[@stephaniecisneros1003]

How do you feel about mother of pearl backslash?

[@katherinelandreth2191]

I used to cook professionally, so I'm familiar with the industrial spring style faucets in restaurant kitchens. I've noticed that style of faucet is somewhat popular lately for home kitchens, but I would never have one in my home. Every little nook and cranny, twist and turn in that spring is a place for food, grease, and dust to get trapped. If food gets stuck to the actual hose now there's a cage of metal standing between your cleaning brush/sponge and the grime. They can be cleaned, but it's just too much effort for me compared to a simple solid surface that I can wipe down and be done.

[@mapratt]

Thank you! You saved me future headaches.

[@denisedevoto2834]

Thanks for the comment!

[@SulanDun]

If you don’t want to have to clean the backsplash at all after cooking, just lean a jelly roll pan against the backsplash behind the cooktop. I do that when I stir fry. If my aluminum jelly roll pan gets dirty, I just throw it in the dishwasher. If it stays clean, I just put it away. You could use a cookie sheet pan instead but then you’d have to hand wash it because it’s too big to fit in the dishwasher.

[@feebee5557]

Genius!!!!

[@milica93]

Brilliant! Thank you!

[@CEDesigns]

Having to use 2 hands to open one drawer is a hard NO for me. We installed one longer drawer pull on each of our wider drawers. Easy to open and close with one hand.

[@nogames8982]

Yeah, I made that mistake of not buying the longer drawer pulls.

[@olk3]

As a 62 year old who’s moved a lot I’ve experience most of these design maintenance fails including tile counters with very wide grout lines. 😬The most practical has been wood cabinets with a durable finish. The wood grain pattern hides scuffs and dirt, and looks perfect even when old. White solid surface countertops, because that’s where cleanliness really matters, and the bulk of daily mess and cleaning occurs. One big one is cabinets with no handles, or the silly architecturally-stunning flat pulls I have now. Kitchen hands are dirty hands, and nothing beats a handle you can hook a finger on to grab a plate out of a cabinet.

[@scpatl4now]

I have a pet peeve with wood floors in the kitchen. You are almost always going to spill stuff or they get water droplets that can stain if you don't catch them and God help you if you have a plumbing issue. Then you are talking big repair money. As for glass, I have stained glass inserts in all my upper cabinets (that I made myself), and I LOVE how they look with a mix of translucent and opaque glass, but they are a whole lot of maintenance (which I am happy to do). This video makes me want to go clean my kitchen, because you can always clean something better.

[@jenniewren9351]

As someone whose disability has worsened over time and cleaning is soooooo much more effort than it used to be, these are great tips. Thank you for also stating that it’s personal choice, if you’ve got the time and energy (or can afford cleaners) what you choose to put that into is up to you.

[@GarrettLeChic]

You are so welcome! Glad it was helpful. :)

[@ediethiel3026]

“They like it until they have to clean it.” No truer words have been spoken. 😂

[@GarrettLeChic]

🤣🤣🤣

[@cjmac2766]

I love, love, LOVE how practical you are while thinking of design, Garrett! You provided SO many practical tips, and cleanliness in a kitchen is not just attractive, it's a health and safety thing! I redid my kitchen about 2 years ago, and you've now got me thinking I might want to replace my brushed nickel faucet and hardware with brass for a whole new look! Your videos are wonderful, Garrett, and you (and your fur babies) are making my home as beautiful as it can be! 🤗🥰🤗

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much for all your support! :)

[@mardeesmail]

I like the look of cup pulls too but they're finger and finger nail killers.

[@9791avc]

I always end up hitting the LIKE button either when you say something super funny/sassy or you are being an adorable human to your dogs. I love that your advice is around being real and practical + you talk a lot about sustainability. Love that for us! ;)

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much Cris! Glad you are enjoying. 😊😊🐶🐶🐶

[@denisedevoto2834]

I have now adopted that Garrettism too. Love that for me! He really is fun and funny too, sassy is the perfect word.

[@psyche8187]

Great video! The reason I won’t have a white kitchen is that it almost serves as a blank canvas or backdrop to anything else that is in the kitchen. So whatever you need to have on your counters stands out and becomes a focal point (coffee maker, olive oil, tea towels, a single mug on the counter, etc.). Your eye is immediately drawn to the *stuff* and that’s why photos of white kitchens usually have nothing but a beautiful floral arrangement in them. But it’s just not realistic. Especially in the context of family life.

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much Emily!

[@anothersunflowergirl]

I like hearing about the downsides of design / decor choices based on information that is more than just it isn't "trendy" now. I also was really interested in the information you shared about sealing countertops and would love to see an entire video on countertops and different types of materials, style choices of materials and maintenance. As always - very informed practical advice. Thank you!

[@K3r0411]

I have always loved white kitchens, and will never have anything else. I actually think of it as an advantage that I don’t have to go and hunt down the crumbs on the counter. We moved a few months ago, and are doing another kitchen remodel right now. The thing I disliked most about the one we are getting rid of was the speckled granite counter. Besides the busy look; every time I thought that thing was clean I came across another bunch of crumbs I had overlooked. All white doesn’t have to be boring, as long as you layer different tones. What I don’t love for me though 😉 is pairing warm white cabinets with cool white counters. It looks somehow off IMO. I may be wrong about it.

[@kaylaoctober]

Hi I just add my comment about white kitchen, in 44 years , I moved 2 times and both my kitchens was always white, everything , walls , cupboard, all appliances, everything !! But no open shelf’s or glass doors. To me it’s so peaceful 🌹💐

[@K3r0411]

@@kaylaoctober Some of us are highly sensitive. I got slipcovered chairs and a pedestal dining table just because the chaos of all those legs made me unhappy. My decorating is limited to wall art, plants, and things I actually use daily. I’m not opposed to color, but keep it calm with off-whites, muted greens and blues, and some brown from wood furniture.

[@olk3]

With you on the granite patterns making it hard to detect crumbs! One house has white quartz and the other extremely patterned light to dark granite. The comparison back and forth just engrains my dislike of that granite.

[@cs4849]

I had an all-white kitchen and it suited the 1945 house it was in, but never again! It always looked grubby. As did the wood countertops in my house before that. Also, a never again for me is Shaker style cabinet doors. I think they are so elegant and classic but they collect dirt - it’s flat panel for me now. We put in a couple of live edge wood shelves on the opposite side of the kitchen from the stove. They definitely do not get greasy and I don’t mind dusting once in a while. We also picked black stainless steel appliances. The house is too new to know how those will do overtime, but I’m optimistic. They sure do look beautiful.

[@marjamilton7797]

Can we all be a positive a you!?! Even when you are disagreeing with an item you note when and where it's still okay. You point out something good in almost everything!! We need more of this in EVERYTHING!

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much Marja! Very nice of you. Please take a moment to support the channel, and join our very valued subscriber family if you haven't already. :)

[@pnhnut]

I came for the charisma of Garrett, and stay for the most adorable Albert!!

[@BrigBrokenToe]

We redid our kitchen and installed an induction cooktop. It has many advantages over gas and electric stoves including safety, fuel efficiency, and cleanability. I encourage everyone to see an induction cooktop demonstration.

[@GarrettLeChic]

That is awesome! Thanks fo sharing. Please take a moment if you haven't already to support the channel, and join our very valued subscriber family. :)

[@lynnfetzer6424]

What I hated and got rid of....Tile floors with grout. HATED CLEANING THAT GROUT! What I love...my white kitchen. Just renovated my white kitchen after 24 years and did white all over again. I have enough wall space to paint to add color and I change that about every five years to mix it up but I will always feel white cabinets and counter tops say clean. Love that for me ! :)

[@karenhollywood3523]

I got away from the all white kitchen in 2019, was tired of it having had it for years. This time I went with black cabinets and marbled quartz countertops and backsplash. I felt I wanted some dark and moody drama this time. It does seem to be a little easier to keep clean too…Cheese dust and boogers, LOL! 😂

[@kassikassikassi]

Garrett, would you do one on fun elements to add to your kitchen? I’m thinking things like those vacuums from the baseboards, or the baseboard drawers, or just generally designing with more pull out elements. We are looking at doing a remodel soon and I want to make sure I get all the best elements!

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks for sharing! Please take a moment to support the channel, and join our very valued subscriber family. :)

[@tracymeserve5627]

My last apartment had black shiny counters they always looked smudged and messy no matter what. Ironically, the white quartz counters in my house are much easier to clean! I also find white appliances to be easier to keep clean than stainless steel. So idk if I agree that all-white kitchens are harder to clean. No white kitchen floors though!

[@celestemorton6797]

I have to say you and Albert are so cute. What I like about it is that you show you have a real life with animals which makes you and your advice relatable. It’s not pie in the sky from someone who has no clue what a real life is like with little mess makers be they children or animals.

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much!🐶🐶🐶

[@kano2130]

We only had the budget to reface the upper cabinets in our kitchen. We Did a shaker style front and we painted them white. We left the bottom cabinets in the dark wood color. The dark shows more than the white. I feel like a white cabinet is less maintenance than a very dark cabinet. I have 4 kids and was too nervous to do marble. I went with a white quartzite. I am so glad I did. My 2 year old took a lime green sharpie to the entire top of our island. (Why did he have access to a sharpie?! I know right. Im an idiot. I have since thrown them all types of markers away. The older kids just have to find another option besides markers.) It came out with barkeepers friend and a magic eraser. 😅

[@abigail1023]

I tiled my backsplash in travertine. After 4 years I still love it and it's pretty easy to clean, even behind the stove. I enjoy the warm and natural look of it.

[@vanessaandreatta9098]

I have a white kitchen in my family home from back in 1989 when nobody else had it(everyone had brown, wooden and dark kitchens) and even the people who sold it to us warn us about the mantainence. It is still beautiful, it is very dated but timeless We will renovate this year and we will still choose white because it helps you see the dirt right away and you are forced to take care of it. I think there are 3 kinds of dirt: casual dirt(dust, dirt that builds up even when you are in holiday ), human dirt(food, gras etc), baby dirt( heavy dirt on the floors and corners made by pets, kids etc). Depending on the family and who lives in the home, kitchen should be chosen based on what kind of dirt we are more likely to have. That said, all white kitchen are perfect for casual dirt.

[@florawright5452]

I LOVE Albert!!! He's just toooo precious!!!

[@karinsolli9581]

I hove push to open drawers, and handles as well. Took two minutes after the redecorating before I started to kick my drawers. Best of both worlds.

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks for sharing your experience Karin!

[@pman2916]

Garette!! You never disappoint with content. Love your insight into what you share because it's very informative and things I wouldn't think off. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge💙👌

[@TheYika1]

Hi Garrett! Another super awesome video!! As always..🥰🥰 I had an all white kitchen with white marble countertops and light wood floors.. it was gorgeous!! But… I cook a lot of Indian food..(Indian husband) so lots of curry 🍛 and let me tell you.. after a few months my countertops were horrible! Turmeric powder can penetrate everything!! We sealed them but since I’m a germaphobic I used to scrub with bleach every time I had a stain.. So I got tired of seeing the yellow stains everywhere, even though I used a spoon rest and every gadget you can think of to avoid stains.. it was complete ruined with the turmeric I use in our dishes, the chai tea spills, so we remodeled it and downgraded to quartz, 😑 my kitchen still looks gorgeous and quartz does not get stained so I can deep clean them with every chemical under the rainbow 🌈🌈🌈!!!😂 😂😂 oh and my kitchen is no longer white.. Love your videos!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thank you so much for sharing, and I’m so glad you are enjoying the videos! 😊😊😊

[@brendaboden5153]

I saw a show on HGTV called I wWreaked My House where she had the refrigerator and dishwasher professionally painted. They were originally stainless steel. They took on a vintage vibe after being painted a creamy color.

[@janeg7057]

Oh you are correct about the problems of a light kitchen. I just did a kitchen refresh. And painted our dark wood cabinets Tombstone Grey. It’s SO light. My kitchen gets a full clean every Friday and a mini clean every day. BUT I’m now having to wipe all the groves and surfaces constantly. Had I know I would have gone with something darker. Just to save my sanity😉.

[@berlinorama]

I have glass-fronted cabinets going up to the (quite high) ceiling in my kitchen and don't actually find them that high maintenance. Certainly less annoying to clean than open shelves would be, but then I don't have kids with sticky hands on the glass, and my dogs are thankfully much too short to reach the cabinets;-))

[@EvelynM-vlogs]

What I have done with copper that can easily be replicated with brass (I think), is to let th metal patina to the level that you love, then clear coat it. The patina is frozen in time. As far as unfinished wood goes, people don't realize that it absorbs smells, so even if you like the unfinished aging process, at some point, it will not smell good. Think vintage wood furniture and its often musty smell. The only way to get rid of the mustiness is to seal it.

[@Angel_HippieCityHealing]

I’m feeling sweet Albert’s energy today and I love that for me! Also thank you for all of these tips. I’m definitely going to have to redo my kitchen next year and you always bring up so many practical things I wouldn’t have thought of! Hugs💕✨

[@GarrettLeChic]

You're so welcome!

[@LesaBear612]

All white kitchens remind me of fru-fru confectionery shops. Somebody should be at the marble counter making fudge. 😂. They look gorgeous in pictures, and in new construction, but over time, they look kinda grubby if they aren’t meticulously cleaned. That’s just my opinion, don’t chew me out people.

[@JuliaARubin]

Love this episode, I really appreciate you concentrating on the practical side of things. My new kitchen is being made as we speak, and it’s going to be blue-stained maple shaker style cabinets with speckled white granite countertop and full slab backsplash. While the esthetic was important, I wanted function as well, and I have you to thank for driving the point home for me. After watching your channel for a while I reassessed my priorities and I’m happy I did. So, thank you 🙏🏻

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks Julia! Glad you are enjoying. 😊😊😊

[@antiquesrestoration3874]

You are the first person that has expressed the same attitude about cup pulls as I have. Always love seeing you and Albert.

[@GarrettLeChic]

😁😁🐶🐶🐶

[@carolparsons7250]

Your love for your dog is absolutely amazing. I love it.

[@GarrettLeChic]

You are so kind Carol! The boys make regular appearances in our videos. They are little princes, and loved so much. Please take a moment if you haven't already to support the channel, and join our very valued subscriber family. :)

[@carolparsons7250]

You got it.

[@GarrettLeChic]

@@carolparsons7250 Awesome! Welcome to the channel Carol. 😊😊😊

[@LawMom6]

I built my house in 2018 and chose to do an all white kitchen and I have had no regrets. I also adore carrara marble and but chickened out at the last minute, with some lingering regrets. As a compromise I installed a gorgeous marble backsplash which I love.

[@blcscott7897]

Thank you for these reminders. Always great to see your videos

[@silversnow6113]

Love your sweet Albert, he warms my heart! 💗 We've had white honed marble countertops and backsplashes in our not-all-white kitchen for over 11 years and absolutely love them -- while I am a clean freak, I am no perfectionist! The etches, lemon stains, scratches, wine stains, and ring marks tell a story of how we live and love in our kitchen. They say marble is the "the blue jeans of countertops" and I agree, they just get better with age! And honestly, you can only see the flaws at a certain angle with just the right light hitting the stone. So I say relax and enjoy! Many thanks for another great video, Garrett!!

[@silversnow6113]

@@GarrettLeChic Oh I've been subscribed since your inception!

[@GarrettLeChic]

@@silversnow6113 Yay! Thanks so much for your support. I appreciate it very much. 😊😊😊

[@donnahamilton253]

I love Albert. He is so adorable and he is so lucky to have a nice daddy like you who’s going to take good care of him till the end. I have a Rhodesian Ridgeback. He is registered as my emotional support dog. I can’t do anything without him, we flew from California to Florida twice. We found a nice house in Clearwater a year ago. Escrow closed on his 7th birthday. I joke that I bought him a house for his birthday gift. I love him so much he is the love of my life. He is eight years old now the years are going so quickly I dread the day that he goes to doggie heaven. I have learned a lot from your program. One of my favorite things is dressing up the dog beds. Jack has several beds including the one I sleep in. No ratty looking dog beds in our house!

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so for your kind remarks, and for sharing Donna! Please take a moment to support the channel, and join our very valued subscriber family. :)

[@dianavasile8067]

I love the kindness you give to your fur baby. Good video.

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks! We love them dearly. 🐶🐶🐶

[@randasmom100]

Albert is the most precious little nugget! My 15 year old deaf dog just passed, and seeing Albert warmed my heart. ❤️

[@GarrettLeChic]

I'm sorry to hear about you losing your Kirsten. They truly are family. We always worry about the boys, just like we do our family. They get check ups every 6 months or if we see anything problem. Luckily all three are very healthy.

[@elisabethdarcy1985]

So glad I found you! 30 year old house with early 1990s paneled appliances except for microwave and wall ovens which are stainless and loathsome. A few glass front cabinets I love. Trying to figure out what to do with 1990s appliance garages. Need new backsplash and redo of island. Info about countertops super helpful! Thank you!

[@GarrettLeChic]

Yay! Glad you found the video helpful.

[@kaylaoctober]

Hi Garrett !!! EVERYTHING I buy, I think…how hard it this to clean ?…even my daughter knows that lol ,and now that she just had her second baby, she is thinking just like me lol. BUT in 44 years I moved 2 times and ALWAYS had a white kitchen, NO open shelf’s , NO glass doors..BUT always will love my white kitchen, walls, cabinets, counters and floors…to me it’s just so peaceful…thank you for all your advise, love it 💐🌹💐🌹💐🌹 add: white fridge , white stove, white microwave, white dishwasher.. and just a splash of colour with flowers or vases whatever the “trend” is.

[@GarrettLeChic]

Great points! Thanks so much.😊😊😊

[@rahbid121]

I am so grateful for the info on marbled worktops. I had no idea that it's high maintenance. I do ALOT of cooking, I actually thought buying a marbled worktop would be the best option to clean with ease and not worry about maintenance. Thank you.

[@GarrettLeChic]

That’s awesome! I’m glad the information was helpful. We produce many videos filled with helpful information. Please take a moment to support the channel, and join our very valued subscriber family.

[@fengshui23683]

Was going to get a white kitchen for the longest time.. then towards the end decided to get a warm light grey.. the island and some small areas are a warm wood stain. LOVE the way it turned out ❤️.. glad you mentioned the cup handles.. every time I see them I always think what a pain it must be to use them.

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks for sharing! Please take a moment to support the channel, and join our very valued subscriber family if you haven't already.

[@janicelindegard6615]

I'm hoping white appliances come back in the less high end appliances. It would be great to have a modern looking white stove. I hate, hate, hate black enamel stoves. It is impossible to clean them to shine without streaks.

[@MelodyHopkins]

I love upper kitchen cabinets with glass. So many closed door cabinets tend to make the kitchen look too heavy and I like to display my glassware and dinnerware. I put the ugly stuff like plastic storage containers in the lower cabinets. When I moved into my new house, I had the center panels in all but the one over the stove containing the vent ducting removed and replaced with glass. For me, keeping them clean is minimal work because I'm the only one using the kitchen and I don't cook with high heat and oil. This would not be for the person that opens the cabinet and randomly throws things inside or maybe stores food in them.

[@kathleen2080]

I have one wall of glass cabinets also and my fiesta ware looks so pretty in it.

[@annabellevaughn5968]

I built homes and with two boys I can say the all white kitchen I was over in the 90's. Awful to keep clean, every finger print showed. Things that are worth the trouble I found are the stainless, the natural stone counters, simple classic tile that last. Things I liked, but now want to move on from are brushed nickle-it really is so easy to keep beautiful, but I am in love with the lacquered brass pulls at the moment (not the cups and not the giant long fad pulls) just a lovely knob or simple pull. For flooring I have always loved the narrow thick oak (it is timeless, I like a bombay mahogany 3/4 mix with 1/4 walnut). With several coats of poly it looks so gorgeous and dark flooring actually gives the room depth and I feel makes it makes the room look much larger. Trends come and go, but those floors will last forever. I love the stand alone soaker tubs fashioned after old claw foot tubs or on a pedestal base that are also light as a feather, but I want jets, too and I suspect a lot of people do. I love a walk-in shower with a good sturdy classic tile allover pattern of squares, white or beige, with a walk in shower with a darker wall tile (gives a warm inviting feel (like walking in a cozy warm enveloping cave), again a classic square all over). I love the mosaics, but to keep it timeless and easy to change walls, towels, paper, etc. go square. Put a couple of rows on point, build in soap/shampoo areas, benches, but in the long run it will be easier to change with. Always a separate toilet room. No one wants to look in the mirror and stare at a toilet. Cabinets at the moment for myself I would go with pure bombay mahogany and splash of dark walnut satin finish (right now still lots of medium grey below and walnut above, still the grey's, but a fine custom built wood cabinet is never out of style and so easy to clean and always to the ceiling with a nice amount of crown moulding, not in love with fake greenery dead zone, lol. I think now is the time to break away from wood on so many walls and port grey walls bringing some warmth back in with some light warm linen shades for the kitchen and living areas and for my own home I might even put a barely there light cornflower blue on the ceiling of the sunroom/wrap around/any covered porch areas with warm white walls, maybe a barely there blush for any little girl rooms, and a warm basil green with undertones of gold for any little boys walls, and for a master a light misty barely there wheat with gorgeous thick sapphire or ruby with gold accents bedding, warm and sensual for the mbr. Lighting either lacquered brass chandeliers the more reflections the better, in area like the mbr or br's flat black flush mount ceiling fans (it is hot in Alabama) over island and kitchen nook the pendant hanging flat black lights with hand-blown look glass in the very light amber with lots of bubbles (no Eddison bulbs-they make a beautiful chandelier opalescent glazed bulb that throws off beautiful light), or flat black simple chandeliers with no glass pendants, say over eat in kitchen nook I like to drop a chandelier in a spot to make a statement or as a surprise. Like say a tiny gorgeous one in an entry powder room with some dramatic light wallpaper (new spin on old Victorian paper-think warm white background with red rose bouquets or monet style airy bluebirds in flight) and then maybe a black fairly large but simple chandelier in a lifted ceiling foyer, but a dramatic large brass chandelier dripping in real faceted crystals in the adjoining library or in a smaller home over the table in the dinning area open to the kitchen with adjoining island with it's smaller black hanging pendants. It always is a wow moment. And where the glass in the kitchen doors sparkles and light just bounces around and off all the walls it creates an instant warm cozy, beautifully elegant feel. It is time for some luxe and it can be done as quickly or slowly and by being flexible shopping at sales. Out with the statement pillow, the wall "stickers" and the wood on the walls, in with the gorgeous, heavenly, soft and exquisite patterned pillows, and yesss you are sooo correct it is time to display American wall art (Winslow Homer, Singer Sergent, Andrew Wyeth), enjoy walls with art from wherever, prints, go to a local $20 art in the park sale. Time to enjoy gorgeous light modern takes on exquisite florals, pastorals, rich modern colors using old favorites-think hand screenprint by local artist and thick luxurious bedding, not drowning in pillows, and I am going to put in a plug for handmade textiles, blankets,women's, crochets, knitted, coverlet, woolens, for draping across the bed, chair by local artist- contrary to internet remarks they are not Nast and can be cleaned just like any other spread and are a seriously beautiful way to bring that intangible feeling of home, care and, loveliness that can only be had when you look at something uniquely made for your home and with hours upon hours of work, love and craftsmanship, so a throw however fancy or functional and a tray for breakfast in bed-ahhh, yesss. No plastic in sight, no faux fur rugs or faux fur covered chairs, no fad tiles, no fad flooring, no laminate cabinets, steer away from composite wood anything, just beautiful timeless woods, tiles, fixtures, lighting, wall colors that can go the miles with a simple change in accessories. This trend to do everything at once and buying cheap to try and get that look all at once is a new movement. Much better and in the end much cheaper to buy quality basics, take time, enjoy the process, go to those yard sales, second hand shops, go to your local cabinet maker, seamstress, quilter, metal worker, painter,screenwriter, landscaper, mason, buy local pieces (it makes the home instantly a notch above, certainly is a conversation starter and is a great way to become a supportive part of the community ). Design info, is hard to put in words, but I did my best. I hope it inspires someone that they can do it!!!! There is some discouragement out there, but that is what the local building inspector is for. I want to encourage others to call him/her and they will help homeowners every step of the way. They want to help educate homeowners, it helps the community. Get a good book, watch you tube, learn, be empowered, paint those walls, hang that light, hang that wallpaper, make curb appeal happen by putting in a pretty iron gate from a local blacksmith and hiring trade people who specialize in their trades you can do it. My little pooch, Maybelle is sending best wishes from Alabama to Albert:)! I just found your channel and I really enjoy it. I like that you express what you like and you share what you think will be happening as a designer, not just repeating the same things that are done to death:).

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much! Albert and all of us here send our best wishes to you and Maybelle. :)

[@ps4402]

Great video. When I see open shelves next to the stove, I envision them having a coating of grease. What about flooring in the kitchen? What are some good low-maintenance options?

[@ivyandroses25]

Stop being so ADORABLE, ALBERT! How do you get anything done!? I would cuddle him all day! Such a sweetheart.

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much! He's a special boy. Please take a moment to support the channel, and join our very valued subscriber family if you haven't already. :)

[@carolefreeman2544]

Love Albert 🥰. He makes my day. Does Albert play with your other babies or does he just like to snooze and be hugged? Also having a new video by Garrett LeChic is good for me and I am sure it’s good for everyone. I really enjoy listening to your views and experiences in Home style for Everyone. Till the next one, take care 🤗🇨🇦

[@GarrettLeChic]

Albert loves to snuggle and hang with his brothers. He loves to lay or sit next to you. 🐶🐶🐶

[@alistasia]

Garret I love your videos and how honest you are on trends, designs, etc. thank you so much. I really enjoy your sense of humor and your cute dogs. 👏👏👏👏👏👏😊😊😊

[@GarrettLeChic]

I appreciate that! Thats so kind of you. :)

[@1khwab]

I am thinking, am I addicted to Design or Garrett mannerism😍. Thou I have moved into my new home now and can say almost done with more o less all renovation, but I would still see Le Chic or to be honest I might be dead tired for the day but I would listen to your soothing design class and then retire for the day. You are peace in the name of design. And so is Albert, so so adorable and loving, touchwood!! Keep shining Garrett..xx

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks for the love comment Ramani! I really appreciate it. :)

[@denisedevoto2834]

Albert is so sweet, and, Garrett, I love your energy and sense of humor. I was wondering about those cup pulls, but worried about cleaning behind them. You have helped me decide against them.

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much! Glad I could be of help. :)

[@mariacabrera2850]

I love your perspective & your humor😘 People don't think ahead to the extra cleaning involved in these kitchen trends!🤔

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much Maria!😁😁😁

[@egrace3738]

Totally with you on raw wood surface being hard to clean...even with a wire brush.

[@dpinchock]

When you went off on the cup drawer pulls, I died... Those things squick me out too! I imagine all manners of goo and crust lurking inside... Hubby always leaves food residue everywhere when it's his turn to cook, so I'd NEVER trust him to clean them properly after making pizza dough or something. Just a potential breeding ground for nasty surprises...

[@rachaelbruesch6306]

Hi LeChic Fam! The design inspirational photos are on point! I 💯 agree when it comes to stainless steel, it took me awhile to come around to that look, after working in restaurants. It always seemed cold, once we designed our new kitchen, it was the clear choice. That being said, they need to be wiped down quite a bit, especially when you have ice & water in the door. Speaking of said remodel, we chose natural wood cabinets because hubby could see that the all white kitchen is definitely high maintenance. Excellent video as always. Hugs to all 🤗!

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks for sharing Rachael!

[@zzzkitkat]

So glad I found this youtube channel. Currently building our new house and I am looking for kitchen ideas. Learned a lot from you. SUPER THANK YOU 😇

[@GarrettLeChic]

Awesome! Thank you! I'm so glad our content is helpful to you Kathleen. Please take a moment if you haven't already, and join our very valued subscriber family. :)

[@jeanniebrunk3863]

Thanks Garrett. You are a wealth of good advice and you are fun too!

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much!

[@adrianagalli7504]

Definitely, I love Albert. And I share your opinion on surfaces maintenance. One has to consider this point before buying things. Thanks for the video.

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much! Great point. :)

[@annesandstrommusic7538]

I loved this video. But you stayed clear of my personal third rail of kitchen maintenance. Soapstone. Soapstone countertops are like rivers. They are never the same from one day/hour/minute to the next. Water marks. Oil stains. Chips. Uneven color. They are possibly the most high maintenance of kitchen options. And yet I love mine. Most photos of soapstone countertops are taken after they’ve been oiled perfectly. Actual soapstone doesn’t look like that. Imagine dark denim jeans that naturally fade. (Jeans don’t do that any more, but I digress.) That’s real soapstone. Quirky, faded in places. If you want black countertops, opt for honed or leathered black granite.

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks for sharing! I did not stay clear of soapstone. It’s just that when we make a video I can’t discuss every possibility. 😊😊😊

[@teresahalliday3680]

Love Albert's cameo! We have marble style quartz in our kitchen. I would have loved real marble but out of our budget and maintenance of it scares me!! We have white painted top cabinets and black painted bottom ones. I love them. Our kitchen is small and I think it would have been too stark for me. I can't wait til you do your kitchen make oveer and share it!!! As usual...loved this video!Thank you.

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much Teresa!🐶🐶🐶

[@kathrynbaker5188]

Great advice as always. Love how you love little Albert. He’s so sweet. 😘😘

[@GarrettLeChic]

🐶🐶🐶

[@paulineacosta8409]

When I got my apartment it was an all white kitchen - counter and everything. When I had the chance to redo the kitchen a went for lower cabinets in a walnut color and upper white cabinets. I got white counter tops. Had to keep it light since the kitchen has no windows in my apartment

[@Kringlelicious]

Thank you! Going to get rid of our rusty metal cabinets and I'm looking for practical tips like these! Thank you for this!

[@GarrettLeChic]

You are so welcome!

[@wildmeadows8495]

This takes me back to our weekly big family chore of cleaning our builder-grade oak cabinets with a rinse, after a scrub with dish soap and a sponge wand. Though cheap, those cabinets held up and looked nice for a long time.

[@GarrettLeChic]

That is awesome! Thanks so much for sharing. Please take a moment to support the channel if you haven't already, and join our very valued subscriber family.

[@preparehomeinchrist]

Loved this! Great thoughts, and I agree. I definitely overthink points when it comes to looks and functionality or my ability to upkeep. I am laughing because for 10 years I told my husband how much I wanted a white kitchen. Every house we renovated, we would just update little things like countertops or staining cabinets. I never got my white kitchen, and would say, "I just can't wait for the day." Well...we finally renovated...and I chose green and wood cabinets. ha ha. It all came down to functionality. I love cooking. I love having my kids help. And imagining myself cooking in a white kitchen with kids was a bit much. There is still some white in there though. Can't wait to see what you do eventually with yours! It is fun to dream!

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much Camille! I’m glad you were able to get a kitchen that works for you. With delays and shortages it will take me longer than I planned especially for the appliances that will need to be ordered. 😊😊😊

[@preparehomeinchrist]

@@GarrettLeChic Thank you!

[@SarahRenz59]

Re: unfinished wood cabinets, there's a KZbin furniture flipper who often uses a product called Odie's Oil on natural wood. Odie's Oil is non-toxic and food safe, so it's perfect to use in a kitchen. The oil can be used in conjunction with their Odie's Wood Butter or Odie's Wax to give more of a protective finish.

[@GarrettLeChic]

Perhaps, I'm not into furniture flipping so I did not see that, and can't vouch for it. I would recommend anyone seriously investigate a product before using it on a surface like wood.

[@gloria6673]

Open shelves…Agreed. Next kitchen redo…honed marble. Cup pull…always creeps me out. Looks great, but no. Agreed again. We have painted glass as our backsplash and i love how easy it is to clean. I have the white kitchen…I don’t find it difficult because I have a cleaning routine and the proper tools and safe cleaning products to make the upkeep a breeze. Albert just needs to stay adorable and healthy…at 17 he can do whatever he wants. Our baby, Sugar, is turning 13 and is still like a puppy. We have down wrapped sofa cushions and after I vacuum and fluff them, I see her little paw prints from inspection. ❤️. I love them.

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much for sharing Gloria! Please take a moment to support the channel, and join our very valued subscriber family if you haven’t already. 😊😊😊

[@Lola.sweets]

I don’t own one but everyone talks about the white porcelain farm sinks being brutal to keep clean

[@103lane]

This was one of the best advice videos. I keep seeing all these items in kitchens and think the same thing that they are high maintenance.

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed the video! 😊😊😊

[@erikabraga100]

Albert is the cutest ❤️

[@GarrettLeChic]

🐶🐶🐶💯

[@stephaniecisneros1003]

Can you do an entire vid on just faucets? I'd like bathroom faucet that comes our a little more so water does fill behind. My kids are driving me insane!

[@auggiedoggiesmommy1734]

Hi Garrett! I think you are incredibly good at what you do. Your family must be so proud of you! Kisses to the puppers!

[@GarrettLeChic]

They are proud of us! Hello and hugs to Auggie.🐶🐶🐶

[@Hazel_Dazel]

I had an apartment with open shelves across from the stove where everything became coated with a mixture of grease and dust that was nearly impossible to remove even with degreaser. It didn't matter how much you ran the hood - the fine particles of grease mixed with dust on all the items I would store on the shelves. UGH. No more open kitchen shelving for me EVER. I am renovating my kitchen soon and I'm dithering what to do for the backsplash. I like the glass backsplashes especially since my home is very modern but you make a good point about the glass showing every little thing. Maybe a backsplash that is more matte/honed would be better. I really don't want grout lines (our fixer upper came with tile countertops with wide grout lines YIKES) so maybe I need to do some research for different options.

[@coppergryphon7787]

I cannot stand glass top stoves! It is impossible to keep clean, and I am terrified I will break it. So glad to be moving to a gas stove soon.

[@leslikuyweski4576]

I always appreciate your advice!

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much!!!😊😊😊

[@christelschmidt7468]

Love Albert’s little tongue sticking out! Not a fan of high maintenance kitchen things. We had a brick like backsplash and dark granite counter top which we just switched out for a light marble-like quartz that rises up as our backsplash. We DO have stainless appliances but are willing to clean them regularly. Love our new matt black cabinet pulls and black matt faucet!

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much!🐶🐶🐶Sounds nice. 😊😊😊

[@marshabalderrama8903]

Hi Garrett, I had a white kitchen and I loved it but got rid of it because it was too much maintenance to clean. Now I have a wood oak cabinets and they get so dirty around my big cooktop. I need to find the best degreaser and clean the crap out of them.😬

[@kellyhamergia]

Brilliant as always Garrett!!!!

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thank you so much Kelly! I appreciate it. 😊😊😊

[@EileenMPrice]

I love my white cabinets and stainless steel appliances. I wipe them down with vinegar and water spray and it works really well. Not sure if it’s recommended but I’ve done it for years without any problems.

[@22tew93]

We had a pipe burst in our house,and got a renovated all white kitchen out of it. Fast forward a year, we put our house on the market to sell,and we just sold it. My one rule for the new house was I did not ever want a white kitchen again. The new house has a beautiful dark wood cabinet. As a full time working mom with kids,furbabies,and a husband my sanity needed brown. So I will sadly admire them from afar.

[@natalietese3488]

excellent video!! I love your balance of education with opinion.

[@GarrettLeChic]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks so much much for supporting the channel by watching and subscribing. I truly appreciate it Natalie. :)

[@deroux]

I'm very over tile countertops. They are so hard to clean and maintain. Avoid! :) Great video Garrett.

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much! I’m so glad you enjoyed the video. 😁😁😁

[@maritzamontalvo2033]

Loving all of your advice Garrett, I love white and have white cabinets but no Marble for me I have granite! I would lose my mind with all the stains ugh my OCD would be on over load...l love your sweet Albert big hugs for him.

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much Maritza!🐶🐶🐶

[@spoolspool6278]

Life is just better with our furry babies around. I’m glad Albert gets some screen time.

[@GarrettLeChic]

🐶🐶🐶💯

[@dev5963]

All practical and useful advice but still elegant and achievable. Kitchens take more abuse than any other room in the home. When you entertain (i.e. cook for guests), they will wind up in your kitchen. After preparing food all day for dozens of people, you then have to clean your kitchen. I have a man-made material that looks like soapstone around my sink and cooking area. I have open shelving above my coffee maker (across the room from the stove) so I can place coffee mugs above. They are sealed wood. When we have guests, I remove the coffee maker and use that area as the bar with glasses on the open shelving. My island top is made of reclaimed floor boards (150 yrs old) that we salvaged during renovations. It is sealed and incredibly easy to clean (but if anyone tries to cut directly on it, I will punch them in the throat). My one high maintenance item is my polished chrome faucet. I love it and happily wipe it every day - it takes less than a minute. I have an old cupboard with glass doors away from the cooking area. I still have to clean it but it's where antique kitchen items are displayed. Much easier to clean a glass door than decorative items. We enjoy cooking so it can get messy. (In reality, I enjoy cooking and DH enjoys eating). My kitchen is what I hope is beautiful but still plain and relatively easy to clean.

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much!

[@CocoB22]

Albert can leave all the nose prints he want on my subzero. He’s precious. Absolutely precious. We have stainless steel in the kitchen- it helps to train users on being neat and tidy too.

[@GarrettLeChic]

🐶🐶🐶

[@mdipeace]

I have kitchen countertops made from bowling alleys that are high maintenance - more than I realized when I installed them. I'm not sorry about them as they are lovely and repurposed, but sometimes I dream of my old bomb-proof Corian. 😀

[@amyweaver7413]

Such practical,detailed advice. As for my kitchen-it will always be the classic white kitchen.

[@GarrettLeChic]

Glad you enjoyed Amy!

[@karolina8367]

What a great video, you're so knowledgeable!

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much Karolina! Please take a moment to support the channel, and join our very valued subscriber family if you haven't already. :)

[@TheHappyWhisk]

This really isn't really part of it but years back I ripped out all my upper cupboards and some of my lowers. Just was tired of dealing with them.

[@deniseharrell1591]

If you take a pinking sheared piece of fabric on the kitchen shelf, to dust you can just throw it in the wash when dirty. Works for bookcases too! Top of fridge...🤓

[@christinafordhomedesignlif8847]

I love this video !! Another great one friend! 😎😎😎😎🥰

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much!

[@EyeAme]

I freaking love you. This video is on time. Currently remodeling my kitchen. Thank you so much.

[@GarrettLeChic]

Thanks so much! You are so welcome. Please take a moment to support the channel, and join our very valued subscriber family if you haven't already. :)