5 Home Decor and Furniture Pieces that You Don't Actually Need! *You're Wasting Money AND Space*

[@lindacgrace2973]

About those vintage cutting boards...With very rare exceptions, cutting boards are made of teak, walnut, or pine. All of those species of wood have volatile oils and a surface cell structure that is quite deadly to bacteria. In scientific studies of wooden cutting boards (they tested teak, pine, and beech) versus "sanitary" polyethylene boards, they could not discover ANY bacteria after five minutes on the wooden boards. Even on wooden boards used to chop raw meat and poultry, even when the boards were wet and left wet. Nope. The wooden boards were more sterile than the supposedly impervious plastic cutting boards. The older and more close-grained the wood, the more effective it is at destroying bacteria. This is true even with 100-year-old wood. A vintage chopping board is one of the safest and most sanitary choices you can make. I can supply the scientific references for you if you are interested. Please, go ahead and use your vintage cutting boards. Wash them with a gentle blend of warm water and soap, oil them with food-safe mineral oil, and chop to your heart's content.

[@lililijo]

I am always telling people that wood is self cleaning. I just did know all the science. Thankyou for that.

[@lindacgrace2973]

@@lililijo You are welcome, Liz! 😊

[@LadyInBlue3]

Yes! Wood boards are great and a pleasure to use. I was thinking no, no, no, when she was slamming them.

[@lindacgrace2973]

@@LadyInBlue3 Thanks!

[@lizzysbeautyshowetc.6895]

I agree

[@nailguncrouch1017]

When I moved into my condo the previous owner abandoned their sideboard, I moved it to the living room where it is now a fancy entertainment center. One less piece of furniture to buy.

[@kcmabel4440]

I love extra storage. My sideboard has games, toys all kinds of fun things, As much as I like open shelves there is no way you can store anything in them.

[@marychristensen7386]

Wow. I've been shopping for a sectional because I want to somehow divide the space between the dining area and living area. Then the other day I found the perfect small sectional but it is SO expensive! Now, I love the ottoman idea. So much to think about! Also, this condo came with a heavy chandelier in the little breakfast nook area that dictated where the table had to go - but I study there - and hit my head on that chandelier. Changing to a flush mount was the BEST decision.

[@chianti95]

You might want to consider an armless sofa or loveseat as the divider. I’m doing that to separate the dining area and living area … facing sofas are a lot more conducive to conversation than a sectional and it definitely helps to define the functional spaces

[@makeapositivedifference]

I love my sideboard, and styling it is not an issue. Mine is actually a repurposed dresser and it holds my decor that I rotate for the seasons, and placemats and such.

[@glittermama]

I love sideboards too. Several years ago, we moved into a home with a sunroom and I turned it into another dining room with another sideboard--right off the "rec" room that I had already turned into a summer dining room with, of course, a sideboard. I converted a sideboard into a bathroom sink console. I would have more, but I ran out of space lol.

[@makeapositivedifference]

@@glittermama nice! Do you have any pics of the one you converted to the sink console? That sounds like a great diy!

[@lovemesomeslippers]

"Go to a better grocery store". You're a girl after my own heart! This is the best upgrade I've ever made. We enjoy the meals we are making so much that we dine out much less and don't miss it.

[@donnapecoraro3126]

We always called the sideboard the buffet. You’d place large platters of food on it and guests could serve themselves and sit down. I see a lot of modern dining rooms with just a table and chairs.

[@_.-._.-._.-._.-.]

You never cease to amaze me with your thoughtful and realistic ideas. You not only have great ideas, but you are freaking awesome at communicating them as well. Keep up the good work, what you do is so appreciated.

[@KivaBrent]

You are too sweet! Thank you so much for your kind words! 💕💕

[@TheEclecticPhotog]

Am I the only person who actually dislikes the vintage cutting boards layered on the kitchen counter? I'm just not a fan of the trend at all. 🤷‍♀️

[@luvslyfe1]

I’m with you on this one. Functional cutting boards belong in a cabinet in my house. Otherwise, they’re just clutter to me!

[@Mamado88]

I don’t like it, clutter and dust collectors to me!

[@gailremp8389]

I have a 4 x 5" cutting board and one little bit larger. I'm always moving them into the kitchen where I'm working. So I never really thought about it.. This sound to earth shattering I will have to check this out. Thanks

[@karenelewis2039]

Yes VERY trendy indeed. I seriously don’t get this one. Like why a used vintage cutting board? Weird

[@michellem3879]

To me, their dust and grease collectors. I have a cat and a kitchen open to the living room so anything that isn’t going to be used and washed/wiped down daily cannot be left out.

[@dmndangel]

This is hilarious. I am hands down a chaise sectional fan. I love sprawling out on them, that’s how I’m the most comfortable. And I hate ottomans. Maybe it’s because we have dogs, but they’re always getting moved around and I find it annoying dragging them back into place. I’m suddenly into chandlers, but I agree totally not necessary.

[@naromiesbeninche6975]

I have a sofa with Ottoman for 3 years and I hate it. Moving to L sectional. Sorry KB 😞

[@stefanianzo9907]

I agree! I do not like ottomans because it gets in the way of a coffee table and then I don't like the way how ottomans look on their own seperate from the couch!! Also... Ottomans as a coffee table??? I would have to purchase sperate pieces to set food items like a server. For this, the chaise sectional is just a cost and life saver for me... I sprawl on the couch as well lol

[@michellem3879]

@@naromiesbeninche6975 that’s what keeps me from going that route but the chaise sofa I want would be too big for my current space so I’m waiting. My son just bought one for his apt and loves it. To each their own. Like she says, we have to do what works for our space and lifestyles. 🥰

[@naromiesbeninche6975]

@@michellem3879 that's true it more often whichever can fit the place! My thinking is that At least with the sectional I figure that 2 people can lay down at once(me and My hubby).I am moving to Texas soon. I am worried whether the sofa would work for the new place (haven't seen it yet.. only had a 3D virtual tour)but I really want that sectional so we both can get cozy at the same time. @stefani I hate the Ottoman too. I never opened it 🤣🤣🤣

[@andrealongbottom3869]

Same we use to have an ottoman and not the best. Also not comfortable over time it always made a gap when you wanted to use as a sectional. We race for who will go on the chaise part since it’s so comfy.

[@nouraq]

1. I didn't spend money on open shelves because I know my messy husband and kids will never keep them the way I'd like. 2. I didn't spent money on a console entryway table because they don't have storage. Instead, I got a large cabinet and use it to store all my candles, home fragrances and occasional decor. 3. I didn't spend money on ready-made furniture for my livingroom. I got a custom-made sectional sofa that fits perfectly within my space and chose a durable fabric that my kids won't be able to ruin. 4. I didn't buy any trendy large furniture. I opted for the calm peices with the idea that I can always juggle with the small decor peices instead of wasting my money on the expensive large pieces and getting stuck with them. 5. I didn't waste my money on cheap art that does not mean anything to me. Although my walls are bare, I am saving up and looking forward to putting up only the art that I genuinely want to be hung on my walls.

[@KDbelieves]

Hi :) can you please tell me the company and durable fabric you used? I am looking to buy my first couch and I am looking for something stylish and durable that can last me several years.

[@tamiewert808]

I can't be without my sideboard! It's my fav piece of furniture and is where I enjoy showcasing my personal style! Is that a sideboard behind you in the video? 🤣

[@misspam4723]

Lol 😂 😂

[@elena7659]

Lol we need a need answers Kiva 😂

[@kurwinterrose7855]

It looks like a desk.

[@madisonsal9148]

Please fix the sound

[@121476]

Love your videos, but you really Really need to work on the sound. It's very bad lol

[@heikejanka302]

I have a chaise sectional because it fits perfectly beside the window - the armrest is against the wall, the chaise part is along the radiator that's below the window. I wouldn't want the armrest blocking the heat. So for me it's just perfect.

[@elanamu16]

I store liquor in my sideboard and use as a bar I had a huge wall to fill in my dinning area.

[@leslienelson2323]

Same!

[@fielight]

really agree with the excessive dining areas in a home. growing up in the 90s, it seems de rigeur to have the eat in kitchen and a formal dining room that is never used. when I bought my second home (a single family house), it was the first time we had an excess of space (my other residence being an apartment in the city). I told my husband that we don't need an EIK plus a dining room; why not just eat in the dining room all the time, and make every meal feel special? and that's what we did. the dining room was further styled like a library so not only do we eat in it every night, we can also read and work during other hours among all the books and decor.

[@LaurenAnne6]

I SO agree. I cannot remember a single time eating at the formal diningroom table. We did ay my grandmas for holidays, but never at my house. I'll be moving into a bigger apartment soon that'll most likely have an eik area with a dining room area. I want to use it as a gym space. Not the most ascetically pleasing, but it's a much better use of the space.

[@kurwinterrose7855]

I just bought a new home and NOT having a formal dining and living room was one of my main priorities.

[@jessa9877]

😂 I put my hamster 75 gallon tank on the formal dining room buffet/sideboard... if not, no use is made of that room

[@shaunphan9039]

Chaise is so practical. I love it. I can even take afternoon naps on it. And best for watching movies. I think it's the most practical piece of furniture you can have in a home. Unless your space is very small, then yes, chaise is not the best.

[@Beehiveable]

I got a side board to store all of our board games. So they are right there when we have game nights. And we needed a really long one because we have a large dining room. But "side boards" get pretty pricey. So I just found a little 2 door cabinet I really liked and ordered 3 of them to put right next to each other. It works great!

[@eaglezero78]

Our board games live in our sideboard as well! Also our masks and sanitizers lol

[@KarresseMe]

They are very expensive! I just got one from a yard sale for $40 that im going to revamp

[@udesirekyejc]

Yo i can’t understand why anyone would hit the thumbs down! Like I seriously wish I could find them ask them what’s the problem! 😡😤lolll thanks for the tips girl! I always thought those type sectionals were cute but not practical. I’m sooo glad I’m not the only one 🤗

[@reneecormier4374]

I am hearing everything your saying in detail plan to become minimalist in having too much stuff. I don't like clutter because it becomes overbearing and kill the decor and show you don't know what look your going for. Loving the knowledge of decorating...

[@pythoness_programmer_gold]

I will never give up my chaise sectional, lol. We actually have an ottoman-type chaise you explain, AND the chaise for both of us. It's perfect.

[@soni05131]

Ha, ha, me same, it's in my bedroom and it's my sacred space. I need comfort...so yeah chaise not going anywhere!!

[@Loveesarita]

Same!! I’ll never trade in a chaise for an ottoman 😂😂😂 I need to lay down without sliding

[@ltgemini1599]

I'm looking for a couch sectional w chaise. A sliding ottoman is what I was concerned about and falling through the crack!

[@LaurenAnne6]

I love mine, too, but I never entertain. I've had the sofa for a few months now and I've had one person over.

[@audreyhempburn5306]

Yup I am getting a sectional. I love them!

[@emgogo8925]

Giiiiirl don’t come for me and my chaise! That’s the comfiest spot in my house 😂

[@zzrr11ify]

Awesome video, as always, Kiva. You're the best. I especially appreciated your advice on all the dining spaces in our homes!!

[@susanmcbridewright6241]

Our gas fireplace is on all of the time from November through May and we eat dinner at the dining room table every night. Our kitchen table might get used twice a month. Usually has baskets of fruit, veggies and flowers on it.

[@shonthedivinediva8462]

I do not NEED the chaise, BUT I absolutely want it for myself so everyone has to sit elsewhere. 😄Thankfully, my room is a great size so yep, keeping it on the list. I've had a sofa and ottoman for years and definitely ready for the chaise.

[@brendaindallas9880]

Please listen to her. Like you, I just HAD to have a chaise sectional, so I got one. Because of Covid, I waited 10 months to get it and absolutely HATE it. It is awkward to sit on and really uncomfortable. I should have gone with a sofa and added an ottoman. Sooo, $1500 later, I’m trying to find a furniture maker who can convert the chaise part to an end unit for a reasonable price. Strictly my own personal experience..good luck

[@shonthedivinediva8462]

@@brendaindallas9880 I watch frequently and know the fabric of my life and the set up of my home. Thank you for weighing in, but this particular tip just doesn't apply to me.

[@stefanianzo9907]

I love the chaise life!!!! I seriously have only had a couch with a chaise for my own spaces because I didn't like the lack of one growing in my parent's house. I can imagine the waste of space of the ottomans too.. I am just not a fan of ottomans

[@shonthedivinediva8462]

@@stefanianzo9907 Yes, if the ottoman doesn't have storage it can be inconvenient at times. I'm looking at furniture now and will DEFINTELY be ordering a chaise.

[@karenelewis2039]

Yes you have to have a huge room for a chaise lounge sofa or you will trip over it for sure! Lol!

[@crochetuli]

Get a gas-log fireplace, they are marvelous = fire looks great, heats the room+, plus no clean up afterwards.

[@sleepycalico]

With the loss of kitchen space due to open architecture, a sideboard may become more and more useful to us.

[@samsungtv7924]

Great point!

[@KDbelieves]

Uh, this is why I don't like the open space trend. It feels like living in a studio. Plus the smell from the kitchen can easily get into your couches. You may not smell it because you live in your home, but guests can smell it. It can even get into your clothes. People don't think about stuff like this. I prefer closed kitchens with open walkways.

[@LaurenAnne6]

You can pry my chez lounge from my cold dead hands!! Lol! I see your point, though. I've had mine during covid, so I've had one person over in the last 2.5 years. Given your heartbreaking advice, I'll probably rethink it for my next space. I'm finishing up a masters in Physics, so I'll be getting a tech job and I'll want to move into a nice place that I can decorate the hell out of!! I want it to be a mid-century modern/eclectic masterpiece. I'm super excited to have the money to have more than hand me downs that I don't really like.

[@ysbyttybedbug]

I agree with most of these. I made the mistake of buying a 3-seater sectional years ago and what I’ve found is, I can rarely be bothered to squish into the corner to lay down as it’s too far from the fire/tv. And when we have visitors, they tend to sit uncomfortably on the leg part with no one sitting in the corner seat. A separate ottoman is a much better idea - far more versatile. The only one on your list that I disagreed with was the lumbar pillow. I use the one in my bedroom to support my head when reading, my living room one supports my head when watching tv and the one on my patio dining chair supports my lumbar region. I wouldn’t be without them.

[@michelebradley7813]

Where were you w/this Vlog 4 yrs ago?! 😂 I learned the hard way that a Chaise Sectional doesn't work in all spaces. It became a headache to style/decorate around🙄. 2 Sofas & an Accent chair actually works a lot better👍🏽.

[@coastaldiva]

I definitely can do without cutting boards being displayed

[@ginger1549]

I inherited an antique Stickley buffet that is in my combo living - dining room.I honestly don't know what I'd do for storage without it. Beside that it is beautiful, & we like the ambiance antique furniture gives.

[@tiffytattoo2450]

I'm 29 and have many different china sets... living a granny life xD I even have "fine" cuttlery and fabric napkins. Yes, I'm that fancy bitch! And I love it! Sure, it's a lost thing in my generation, but I love it and it needs a comeback! So much fun to chose from different sets for a nice table setting! (Of course not practical for people who move often or live very nomadic).

[@casonyajack2977]

Im in trouble. We brought our sectional and it will be delivered in early Dec. Love the tips. Wish I heard this 2 months ago. Great content as usual. Thanks KB

[@simplelifesg3459]

Thanks for the video. I agree with with most of your points, especially the chaise sectional! In many apartments nowadays, a sofa + ottoman combo is simply more versatile for the limited soace! Don’t quite agree about the lumbar pillow though - at my (middle) age, I find a lumbar pillow critical for comfortable seating on a sofa. 😅 Btw it should be “lie on a sectional” rather than “lay on a sectional” though one can “lay down something on a sectional” 😅😅

[@Beaumiroir]

You can get a beautiful cutting board that isn't vintage. There are plenty of carpenters, craftsmen and artists that make and sell them. Maintenance isn't complicated, you may just have to treat the wood with an oil regularly (you can use very cheap mineral oil). I bought one as a gift for my husband last year and it's a statement piece in our kitchen that we use every single day.

[@cherylkavanagh3387]

Very thoughtful video, Kiva. Yes, I have a Brookstone lumbar pillow that I use for traveling. Love it! I do, however, also have a dining room sideboard that I have had for over 30 years in a formal dining room. It holds my various table linens, serving pieces and various holiday table decorations. I use everything that I have accumulated over the years. (I know, I know, I am dating myself). I have a wood burning fireplace and love it. I use it often every fall and winter. I often light a fire just for me (not just when I am entertaining during cold months). It is all a matter of priorities and what you love.

[@SGrahamStudioCrafts]

Love the video! Not having an ottoman trains people not to put their feet up on the coffee table. As an academic I would prefer the chaise sofa for reading and grading with less stress on my knees. The ottoman is very hard on your knees and hips over time. As you age, it matters.

[@sophievanderbilt1325]

I'm at the age point where I prefer a recliner lol. Ottoman definitely are rough on the knees, and the chaise is tough to climb in and out of! So I'm more of a recliner type. ( elegant ones...not those big overstuffed man cave types)

[@LaurenAnne6]

I grade on my chez lounge all the time!

[@AniBanerjee1]

I live in Houston, and its always hot (our airport is called IAH) and you would be surprised at how many folks have fireplaces. In the summer fireplace just looks abominable

[@shambhavi5562]

Hey KB - you are a saviour. We are in process of buying all furniture for our new apartment & you read my mind. All these points is exactly the questions I had. What do you think of recliners instead of chaise sofa?

[@EileenConnects]

Most of the things you mentioned are still in my wishlist 😀 thank you for the highlight! Now I have to decide wise

[@janaejones8709]

Hi KB, I have a question or to anyone who comes across this. My husband and I just bought a house 3 months ago. We are slowly but surely making it a home. We have an extra space that opens up to the backyard and we planned on making it our family room/guest room. We were planning on getting a sectional w/a bed but I was thinking of getting two sofas that pull out into a bed. Do you think that's a good idea or better to get a sectional? The goal is to keep it warm and cozy but also have a comfortable sleeping space for when family or friends come to visit.

[@bricksloth6920]

I have an atypical approach to pillows. I have them on the sofas, but they're smaller than usual and squashy. You can actually sit down without worrying about them. They provide visual interest and you can pile them up if you want support.

[@soriyazz]

Late but I'm here. Yes you do teach us. TY

[@glittermama]

OMG, Kiva, I put chandeliers wherever I can!! Two minis in my walk-in closet. I shop REALLY intensively, have the most gorgeous chandeliers, and have never paid more than $300. I bought one, a knock off of--you know the one--it has branches and crystals for leaves and the color was brassy. A real bargain because they couldn't sell it, it was so ugly. I painted it gold, keeping the darkened recesses and creases and it looks terrific in a stairwell. But I also have recessed and bulbs etc. You just have to SHOP!

[@andreathorpe7035]

#teamchandelier here too!

[@glittermama]

@@andreathorpe7035 😍😍😍

[@ms.one-town901]

I feel like if it works within your life you should get it. I take others advise with a grain of salt! If you love chandeliers and they bring you joy and you’re able to get great deals, then kudos to you!! ✌🏾♥️

[@glittermama]

@@ms.one-town901 I agree and also feel that applies to everything. There are good pieces of advice and general rules, but what excites one individual may be anathema to another. 💛

[@fridayhunt7075]

Traditional fireplaces funnel the heat right up the chimney with the smoke. If you put in a fireplace insert, it will actually funnel the heat into the room , and keep you cozy without burning through logs really quickly. They’re almost as efficient as wood stoves and fit inside your fireplace. Since you close them, you can just let it burn down safely.

[@Only1_Me]

We spend all of our time in the family room, so the formal living room never gets used and the formal dining room never gets used because we always use the breakfast nook in the kitchen. The spaces are fully furnished and decorated "for company" but we never actually have company lol. And in the 11 years I've lived in my home, I'd never thought of my wood burning fireplace as anything other than a spot to decorate around for the holidays.... had never used it once.... until last year when a winter storm hit and we were without electricity and heat for several days, with temps in the low teens.

[@glittermama]

We lived in a brownstone for about 30 years. I had the most gorgeous fireplace in the living room and never used it once! Who wants all that stuff, maybe smoke idk burning next to your nice furniture! But it was great to decorate!

[@nikanna75]

I don’t want to be rude but I’m sorry it’s confusing to hear you in just one earphone…

[@BeautifulLivingHome]

I love the way the vintage cutting boards look, but, I don't buy them for the reason you said; I don't know where they've been or what's been on them.🤷🏽‍♀️

[@KivaBrent]

I totally agree with you. I do love the look! 💕

[@traceygartrell3419]

Loving your inspiration

[@Housewarmin]

The audio is low and in one headphone for me

[@HR-re6mr]

I can definitely see how ppl’s lives evolve. I have a buffet in my dining room. However I just look at it as storage so anything decor, sunglasses, candles are all in there. I think the big thing is if you already owned something making sure you repurpose for how you live. I also agree with eliminating multiple eating areas. It may depend on how your space is laid out but typically those areas are super close to each other. I think we’re just use to buying certain furniture for certain designated spaces. I knew I didn’t want another full fledged table and chairs so I made the kitchen more cafe/lounge style. It’s not formal. I can drink coffee in the AM or open my laptop to pretend I’m at a coffeehouse. The table can fit two/three plates if need be. But to your point, dining chairs alone are pricey. So I wouldn’t bother unless I entertained a lot.

[@afrikan_criola1923]

I live in Europe, in my country kitchen island are not the norm also we have close or semi open concept. I have a Mediterranean/Alentejo kitchen which are large kitchen with a big wood table and a huge stone fireplace that you can cook, never like dining rooms, no matter the occasion we eat in the kitchen, it's warmer, cozy and close to the food😊

[@bagpipes978]

I recently purchased both a console and a sideboard. I absolutely LOVE them! They are so beautiful and very functional. I have a very small house and they take up valuable space but since they provide storage, the trade-off is a non-issue.

[@TheNoClueGuru]

I’ve used a sideboard for many things. To set up desserts or charcuterie, for off season candles and it’s great for storing board games that are often played on the dining table. I use it also for my sons’s school craft supplies, platters, chargers and placemats.

[@DavidOwenCreates]

I have this couch that has a detachable ottoman situation. It was from ikea - its the coolest thing ever bc depending on how your maneuver the cushions around you can create a couch with an ottoman OR attach it on the left or right side again depending on how the cushions are placed on the sofa - instantly become a chaise lounge 😀 definitely affordable and practical for Any living situation!

[@ltgemini1599]

Ooooo...whats it called, please? 😃

[@DavidOwenCreates]

@@ltgemini1599 I have been legit searching their website and can not find it (I got it a long time ago) can't remember the name ofcourse - I have a feeling they stopped making that model. I'm sure you can get couches in pieces though and put them together how you want so you have lots of options for your space. I have seen sectionals that do that - you put them together to create the sofa you need vs spending money on something that may not fit 🤔

[@ltgemini1599]

@@DavidOwenCreates Thank you for the update!

[@DavidOwenCreates]

@@ltgemini1599 sorry I couldn't find it!!

[@melissasiegel9682]

It took me 60+ years, but I finally have a house with enough space for that chaise sofa I always wanted and I’m going to leave my boob fixtures until I’m ready for a change! I’m having trouble with figuring out what to put over the fireplace because my other half has very different likes than I do in the art department and we’re still working on counter stools! The mini upgrade for my bedroom is trying to figure out how to retrofit my gorgeous king sized midcentury modern headboard to my queen sized bed.

[@thecharminghodgepodgecotta8363]

Have you thought of placing a mirror above your fireplace? That away it doesn’t have to be a issue between choosing styles of art, plus it can help bounce some light in the space.

[@Mamado88]

You could get a Samsung frame tv above it and then display both your styles of art on a rotation?

[@2710kidwell]

OMG, Ive been trying to decide between a traditional sofa or one with a chaise. Less than a minute into this video and Kiva has made the decision for me - love her!

[@BriannaStimpson]

I love my chaise 💁‍

[@simplyevanescent]

Get the chaise 🤣 I love mine. You don’t NEED it but if your budget and space allows it’s actually a very practical purchase. I don’t regret my purchase one bit

[@shaunphan9039]

I love my chaise. My best spot in the living room. Can even nap in it. Best decision I made.

[@perlaleon8071]

Get the chaise lol. Normally I agree w most of her points but this is one of those exceptions. 😂🙂 It can be such a great piece!

[@torriebrown9607]

I love my sectional with the chaise and ottoman. Yes my livingroom is big. I miss your hair color.

[@KivaBrent]

I'm sure it looks beautiful in your living room! Thanks for watching Torrie! 💕

[@margiegrant3845]

Like this look on her

[@luvslyfe1]

I like her current hair color better, tbh.

[@cs4849]

I love this hair color - natural and beautiful.

[@denisev2110]

Um just bought a chaise sectional and a chandelier and I have a real fireplace and a fake one 😂😂😂

[@mschenandlerbong8539]

If you love the stacked vintage cutting boards but feel sketchy about using them, just get one of those plastic liner cutting mats to use on top. You can store one behind the wood board.

[@melpoy7481]

I have a gas fireplace now. I love it, (also live in Pittsburgh) its real flame and not dirty click of a button and it turns on or i can set the thermostat in it and it kicks on itself if it gets cold. However in my new house i am building i opted for no fireplace because i would rather have the wall space and the focal point of the room is the vaulted wall of windows. If i have a fireplace idk how to place the living room furniture? I may miss it but if i do i am lucky and my husband can throw me in one because he’s a contractor :). Would love to have suggestions on how to have two focal points in a room and how to arrange furniture.

[@janereinhardt4715]

Another thing that takes up too much room is king sized beds, unless you are very tall and/or wide, or have a very large bedroom to put it in. Sheets cost more, blankets & comforters cost more & king sized mattresses cost more.

[@tamiewert808]

We tried downsizing from a king to a Queen bed, but we quickly discovered that our two dogs hogged the space, and we had to return to King!!🤣

[@myrtlebeachsara]

Lol I'm looking forward to getting a king! It's worth the extra cost to get to sprawl more. Been the husband and dog, they steal all my room lol

[@janereinhardt4715]

@@tamiewert808 I forgot to mention dogs too!

[@Mamado88]

After having a Queen forever I’m finally getting a king next week for my new house and I can’t wait! We need room for the kids in the bed though lol

[@ndgrandma1818]

We’ve had a king sized bed our whole marriage( 47 years) and love it. It’s worth the extra cost, imho. We even have king beds in 3 guest rooms…. I never considered buying anything else, lol. To each their own! 😊

[@starveil101]

A lumbar pillow ... A shield against kicking toddlers in the middle of the night 😂. Or my nest. Don't enter the nest LOL!

[@luvstar11111]

I love your advised all the time! May I know your wall paint color here?

[@margaretames6522]

Fireplaces draw heat out of your home as they go out. So you need doors to close to prevent that. I’ll have a gas fireplace in my new place, which is easy. No more wood burning fireplaces for me! I graduated from Girl Scouts a long time ago!

[@coastaldiva]

Omg i love my chaise. I have two sofas though

[@wendyjohnstone6504]

I love your honest advice, I too am guilty of some of these and have ended up selling things like a purple chandelier for example as it served no purpose and my colour scheme is more neutral as I have evolved in taste 🙂🇬🇧

[@lose999]

Ewww! Finally, someone who agrees with me about vintage cutting boards. Ikea and Ross have awesome selections.

[@y.t1670]

I have a fireplace in my living room. It was there when I bought the house. Everyone told me to keep it because it is old and classic, and feels like an antique. But I really don’t use it at all. I want to have it removed but I need to save money for the construction work. It takes up the middle of the big wall that connects my living room and dinning room so I cannot put furniture too close to it. I feel it’s a huge waste of space. I cannot have a wider sofa because of it. The size of my future sideboard is also limited because of the fireplace. Kind of annoying.

[@unmuzzled7795]

I think of a sideboard as a landing space. As one brings food from the kitchen to the eaters, it's an elegant solution for the need for a staging area. Just like in a restaurant, the server drops the tray on the sideboard and serves from there. It's also a nice space for a buffet spread.

[@cloudcat0]

I really love playing your videos in the morning when I'm cooking breakfast! Love your tips and communication style. Really appreciate what you're sharing with the world, it genuinely has a positive impact! Thank you!

[@TRoxanne55]

I couldn’t agree more. I have a massive dining area that is empty due to not knowing what to do with it. We have no family or company and never eat at a table. Someday I will figure it out. I love all your videos. Such good info.

[@sharonannelarkin9534]

This one seems to miss the mark more often than not, but I can agree about the sofa/chaise. Unattractive, awkward, impractical, limits furniture placement, and still doesn't seat more than two people comfortably. I can't agree about sideboards, they are too useful for serving food/drinks when entertaining. Cutting boards? Plenty of ways to disinfect for the germaphobes among us. What you cut up on your board two days ago is a much bigger threat to your health than what someone cut up on it 50 years ago. Dining rooms, fireplaces, pianos? I don't think gutting the graciousness from modern homes is a viable approach to design. Many of us can't afford these things anyway, but when we can, saving money isn't as important as the pleasure they bring to our lives.

[@ΤατιαναΧατζοπουλου]

You are soooo right for all of these things in the video!! 4 years ago I realized that my dining table and chairs are useless to me and they just took up valuable space in my living room and that the space could be better used otherwise. Since I live on my own, I usually eat with a tray on my lap on the couch in front of the TV, as I always did even younger at my parents' house. So I sent my IKEA dining table to my parents' basement (they have plenty of storage) and rearranged the 4 chairs throughout the house so that they would serve a purpose as well. Now the vacant space is used as a dancing practice area (my favorite hobby) and I couldn't be more happy! Also there was a fortunate timing when all of that happened, just before COVID locked us in our homes, so I had the space I needed for my online dancing lessons. When I will need a dining table, I will search for a small expandable one, so that it doesn't take up space in my appartment. You are wonderfu Kiva! Keep up the good job!!!

[@speedyspeedgirl1778]

Ooooh I relate to that! If you want space for dancing in your home, it's ridiculous how much furniture all of a sudden is not needed anymore.😊 (I decluttered my bedframe for that matter and sleep on a matress on the floor which I fold up against the wall during the day.)

[@janicelindegard6615]

As I'm looking for a home to downsize to, I'm discovering a fireplace is a must. Of course, we live in Chicago.

[@TheBohodiva]

Agreed it’s a must! I live in Chicago and that small addition makes home feel like a luxury.

[@ang5798]

I'm watching with earphones in, music left ear, voice right, so weird..

[@susiestrong5021]

The vase and those branches 😍 are the greens real or faux? If they’re faux- where can I get them?? I love!

[@bricksloth6920]

My party plates are a set of 12 melamine dinner plates printed with the head of Boba Fett. I don't display them.

[@kayta5946]

I agree sideboards can create "commotion" in a small dining space. I just took the sideboard out of our dining room today and it feels SO MUCH better! Ours always had to many plants on it and it drove me bonkers. It looks so much more minimalist now- which is what I lean towards. I don't know why it took me so long! Thanks for validating me haha

[@cs4849]

We are renting a little furnished house while we build and the whole damned living room is taken up by a giant awkward chaise sectional. I like the couch and ottoman idea, but I’m still searching because it’s hard to find smaller scaled furniture anymore. We will definitely have a fireplace so that we can have heat when the power goes out (as it does on occasion in the mountains). But I think a lot of what you are wisely saying is not to buy things you won’t actually use. Which is a pretty good general rule for life.

[@camm8832]

May I ask where you’re building? We just came back from the N GA mountains & we love it there. Good luck with your build!

[@cs4849]

@@camm8832 Same mountain range - we’re in east Tennessee. Thanks!

[@kimhaas7586]

I use my lumbar pillow. It really helps. Might be the type of sofa I have. AND I live in Pittsburgh too and have a gas FP. I’ve had wood burning FPs in other houses but didn’t use them much. The house I’m in already had a gas FP and it is sooo easy to use. I have realistic logs and it’s beautiful. Highly recommend converting if you think lighting and cleaning a wood burning FP is more trouble than it’s worth.

[@susiebolt4021]

We had a sofa and matching ottoman. It's not the same as a chaise sofa. If you're trying to lay on the ottoman portion as if it's a chaise, your butt ends up in the space between the two pieces. Our space is small and the ottoman was in the way no matter what we did with it. I replaced the entire thing with a chaise. It's sized like a sofa but one side is open like a chaise. Fits my small living room but not two people laying flat. No big deal. It's become my "nest." My husband perches on the chaise or sits somewhere else.

[@nancyberg6260]

Aunt Kiva has spoken more words of wisdom than we could have thought possible. Say thank you. Thank you from the bottom of our pocketbooks- and hearts,of course.

[@donnapecoraro3126]

I’m getting a bad opinion of fireplaces. Wood burners throw off particulate matter which is very bad for you. The cost of running a gas one is very high. Gotta say I love my little electric one, and I’ve had to use it a few times for heat when my boiler broke down.

[@janetchen9707]

You are so on point! Bold! Practical! Very smart as well!!!

[@KivaBrent]

Thanks so much Janet! 💕💕

[@freakinfrugal5268]

I am a dumpster diver so that's where my standards are, but "vintage" cutting board?! What a scam! That's just a gross old cutting board. I would not cross that line. Even if they were 100 percent germ free, no. It's somehow reminiscent of how young mothers (I am starting to gag just thinking about it) will use the baby's spoon to clean off the spit/babyfood combo pack that the baby just globbed out of its mouth and then mom will eat it herself. I'd rather spend any day in a dumpster than have to watch a parent do that.

[@shontasweetieable]

So glad I found this channel… I just moved and I haven’t bought much furniture just a couch and the cubes because I want to be aware of how I’m decorating it….I have so much extra space in my living room and still trying to figure out how I want to use it… and I don’t want my home to be cluttered

[@ltgemini1599]

Same! Good luck!

[@TheBohodiva]

You never lied about dining chairs 😂😩 $250 each for my wishbone chairs. I currently still only have two and we mostly eat at the island.

[@dcoughla681]

You must have huge homes in Pittsburgh, KB, if you can fit a piano in your living room! With these items, I think context is all important. A chandelier can look superb in a Parisienne or Grand Millenial setting, sideboards can be used as a cocktail bar, a TV stand or for hiding ugly items like printers, toys & shoes, a fireplace can be a lovely feature of a living room (as long as it’s authentic & used) & dining in the middle of the kitchen is not everyone’s cup of tea. I agree with you on the lumbar pillows & vintage chopping board though. What I don’t like are glass TV stands or open, clear cupboards where you can see tech wires. Grrr.

[@ML-zb7gq]

I believe the point she is trying to make is not to buy things just because they look nice, but invest in what you TRULY need. For example, I understand her point with the chase, but for my husband and me it suits us perfectly for 2 reasons: 1) We have a small apartment with only 1 tv that is in the living room, so we relax on the chaise every single night after dinner to watch a show. 2) We have a small group of family/friends in our town, so we never entertain large parties. She is simply giving broad directions on how we could save money and invest only in things that truly serves a purpose in our lifestyle

[@nemanjaras]

Great video but I have sound only in one earphone.

[@KivaBrent]

That's weird! Let me try to figure out why that is happening!

[@jd9351]

Yeah, me too. I thought it was my headphones.

[@alexstevens9101]

@@KivaBrent The sound has been bad for all of your recent videos

[@juliadandy6019]

Great tips as always :) Regarding lighting: one additional tip I would give - know in the US dimers and smart bulbs are pretty accessible, but for me - renting and in Brazil - I REALLY loved some bulbs I got that are self-dimering and would really recommend!

[@Mary-oc5ns]

Love your channel but have to disagree about the chaise sectional. I live in a small (1,000 square foot) row home, open floor plan, with one other person and rarely entertain. We both use the chaise all the time, and it’s a sofa bed. It’s perfect for us, in our particular space.

[@janicemeyers-saltzman3315]

I bought 6 dining room chairs instead of 8. I used the same seat cushions in the kitchen & just bring them in for entertaining. It looks nice & now it’s more spacious in the dining room as a result.

[@apriltheInvincible]

I don't know why I thought you were Canadian and based in Toronto :) You are just the sweetest, I love your channel! Looking on your website now too! Cheers from Nova Scotia!

[@KivaBrent]

Thank you so much!! 💕

[@ginger1549]

I guess recliner chairs and sofas are passe' now a days but they solve the problem of where you put your feet and reclining comfortably. In my area (SW Fl.) when you go into a furniture store they primarily sell recliners, with a few non recliners for the buyers who go with the trends. I think us old farts like our recliners.

[@debbiew3259]

My TV is mounted on wall and a little high. I have a sofa with recliners. I don't like the look of it but it is so comfortable. I tried not using recliners to see if I could get comfortable and I couldn't! Putting my legs up on table even with pillow was not comfortable. Plus my neck was uncomfortable trying to look up at TV. They do seem outdated but they sure are comfortable.

[@create-hx7pe]

I completely agree with the chaise sectional segment. I opted for a sofa and two chairs instead, and though only one person can lay down at a time, I can seat more people this way. Plus, my kids have found a way to “lay down” on the chairs.

[@cyninthehouse]

I am first yea!

[@KivaBrent]

Hi!! Happy Friday!

[@juliemckinnon6213]

I love my fireplace. I literally would not buy a home without at least one. I have gas logs but love wood burning best. We use it all winter. I used them all winter even when I lived in a beach town (Huntington Beach, California) which was the first 54 years of my life. Nothing better to warm up a home. 🥰. That said, I don’t get them for bedrooms unless you have a large sitting area. Just too hot for sleeping. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@candiceklein6813]

Not sure if it is me but the sound is off on this video. Still love your videos though. I just want to be able to hear you more

[@cheyennesutton2055]

Kiva! As usual, your information is appreciated. I use my server to hold my platters, chargers, teacup and saucer collection, teapots, candles, and my set of Christmas dishes. My server is a functional piece, and it's a beautiful espresso color. I have two gorgeous lamps on top at either end, two lovely tall chunky candlesticks, and three art deco pieces (small glass clock and two wooden busts). Maybe it's because I'm older (67), however I love my server! By the way, I live in an 800-square foot apartment with a small kitchen and limited cabinet space.