An Architect's DIY Kitchen Makeover - Before and After

[@30by40]

Are you a designer struggling with time management? Try this: time.thirtybyforty.com/ For all the before + after photos, resources, links and details: thirtybyforty.com/longhouse-kitchen

[@slashclash21bharat]

Just totally awesome! It's wonderful to see you take out the time to put together these incredible videos, even while the profession's highly demanding nature. Best wishes from India.

[@JohnPatersonAu]

Impressed that you went with chrome plumbing fixtures instead of following the pack and putting in black or gold like everyone else 😄

[@addisonmadison5989]

Lglcocxu6

[@Righteoushealer]

As a carpentery-based general contractor, I REALLY appreciate the architect who takes the time to appreciate what goes into DIY. Too many designs we encounter that can "look" fantastic on paper, but completely impractical when it comes to the execution of it.

[@30by40]

Cheers, Jon...I agree and wish there was a practical construction component to the professional internship program architects are required to complete prior to sitting for the exams. Learning from contractors and other tradespeople in the field about the reality of construction is an essential part of realizing our architectural ideas and we are better designers with this knowledge.

[@peterluk7946]

That goes the same in professional kitchen designed by ppl never work in a professional kitchen!

[@sleeth11]

@@30by40 every recent grad I’ve spoken with has recommended working with a homebuilder for this exact reason. With a few fabrication projects under my belt already, I’m excited to see how my own DIY experience as a student will enhance my abilities once I get my license.

[@Ephyne]

As a scientist straddling the border between application and theory, this is exactly like the relationship engineers have with physicists (or the one applied physicists have with theoretical physicists), lol. I also appreciate it when others take into account what is practical and doable in design and put in a LOT of effort to do so myself when I am doing the designing... But then I have my moments where I think "screw it" and push the limits to let ideas take me where they really ought to. Throw in a hefty dose of autistic perfectionism that activates at every angle, and I often drive myself nuts, let alone my boss!

[@eyespy3001]

I call these “magazine rooms.” Homeowners will pour through home decor catalogs and design magazines and say “I want that,” unaware that what they’re looking at in those pictures are, more often than not, sets built specifically for the shoot. Sometimes they’re not even real! They’re just beautifully rendered computer models. The client is pulling inspiration from a photo that has little to no practicality, so what they want can’t be achieved when transferred to the real-world confines of their ancient plumbing and old electrical work in their homes, let alone their uneven floors, out-of-plumb walls, and sagging ceiling. That’s not even touching on the fact that many of those design elements in those pictures don’t even make sense as far as everyday use goes… Some things only work in pictures.

[@4Shams]

Now that's the video I've been waiting for for over half a year now and it came out gorgeous. Great videography, edit and great result. Thanks for making such pleasant videos

[@30by40]

What's that saying about the cobbler's children and no shoes? Alas, I'm ever thankful you've been so patient and returned to see the finished piece. Appreciate the kind words + support! I can't tell you how rewarding it is to receive this kind of feedback. Cheers, Eric

[@ইউনচইউনচ-ত৫ন]

wow

[@snacksct3790]

This is how every video on this platform should be. Perfectly narrated, explained, and shot well. Really great job on this video and the kitchen!

[@zlatan_2197]

I was waiting for this for a long time, and It was very much worth it. Great project, amazing result and beautiful camera work! I will be coming back to this video many times for sure.

[@30by40]

cheers, mate...thanks for waiting, sorry it took so long! be well...

[@zlatan_2197]

@@30by40 No problem at all! Quality takes time. Really great video and great results

[@ইউনচইউনচ-ত৫ন]

nice

[@Mads33]

It is THE MOST satisfying to see a stove range sit perfectly in line with the countertop. So many people just can’t get that right. Even in high end rentals with great renovations I’ve lived in, it’s never level together and it drives me bonkers.

[@30by40]

Good eye! Thanks for noticing the details...🙏🏻

[@mypointofview1111]

I had wondered about having an under countertype sink installed. Your video demonstrating the gunk that accumulated underneath is a good reason not to. At least if the sink is above the countertop you can use sealant to prevent gunk. Even a butler sink is preferable to under countertop

[@30by40]

@@mypointofview1111 The trade-off with the drop-in sink is that it makes the counter more difficult to wipe off and keep clean because of the raised lip. With an undermount installation you can wipe things right into the sink. The problem with the original one I had installed (aside from the wood surface) was they didn't caulk or seal it correctly.

[@edwardsmith3062]

@@30by40 big brain moment- mortise the flange of the sink into the counter surface so it’s flush but still a drop-in. Love your videos. I returned to this one to get the manufacturer of the lensed LED bar pendant. Can you tell me if you opted for a right beam, or more diffuse light?

[@NinaThoren]

Amazing seeing how your ideas were made a reality and I really like you approach with a museum/restaurant interior style with keeping it clean and giving it that dramatic effect which I feel is very fitting for your house

[@30by40]

thanks, Nina...appreciate that!

[@NaeDeen]

I studied drafting in high school, architecture in college, then decided it wasn't for me and I went to law school instead. I wouldn't change a thing. Architecture & interior has remained a passion throughout the years. Thank you for sharing this--it is beautiful, sleek, & a reminder of why it's important to design a space that is reflective of who a person is. This is pretty badass! :)

[@nebojsaveljanovski6335]

I've been following you for several years now and I am always amazed at how fluid your videos are. It shows good preparation and respect for your audience. Well done! As for the project itself, I learned something new (as always actually when watching your videos). Keep it up!

[@30by40]

Cheers, thanks!

[@alienwife2956]

Thank you for sharing the practical details. Beauty is one thing but when you add daily use practicality WOW. that makes the difference. We added three things to ours that helped immensely. 1. The bottom drawer fronts hang down 1/4” so when hands are full or dirty I can pull them open with my foot. 2. I have a narrow trash pull out between the sink and dishwasher. Makes me now wonder why designers butt these two together. 3. Lower cabinets are all drawers. What a difference!

[@jwneilson]

These are great suggestions - thank you!

[@philipchan9297]

Definitely love the idea of refacing the Ikea cabinets. What a great way to refresh the kitchen. I also agreed on switching the butcher block countertops in the sink area to stone. Looks amazing.

[@ArshamMo]

You are my soulmate! So many similarities.... The silliest one is that we even use the same brand of dish detergent.... Great job!

[@douglasyong6939]

Back splash, lighting, countertop .. so much thought and philosophy, hence the amazing results

[@susanr5546]

This is the best video and narrative I have ever seen regarding designing a kitchen that truly suits the people who use it! I have an excellent clan that includes top-notch plumbers, woodworkers, designers and all the knowledge that goes with it and I have the sense to listen to them. I have also been through three kitchen remodels and I am doing a mini-remodel of my little kitchen quite soon. I so enjoyed this! Thank you very much.

[@30by40]

Thanks, Susan...glad you enjoyed it + good luck with your project!

[@Kliban1234]

WOW! Absolutely beautiful. Thank you so much for showing us your decision problems and solution saves. Excellent work and design!

[@vickymel2886]

i love how you don't need a flood of light in the kitchen to do your tasks! The lighting really makes a difference!

[@jyjang]

I love the rail design. Very smart! For the soap pump, I connect a long hose to a larger bottle of liquid detergent then connect to the soap pump. No more refilling frequently!

[@HockeyPurist]

TY for taking the time to share your remodel. Already have the wife watching!

[@france4me117]

Absolutely gorgeous and sooo super smart … Brilliant architect with a focus to execute his very own DIY projects with just a flair and a pallet that looks a million bucks :)

[@AustinDo]

What a dream of a kitchen this is! Everything is so sleek, beautiful, highly functional and customized. Being able to say that you designed and DIYed the whole kitchen is such a flex too! This is the most fun video of your channel by far, sooo worth the long wait.

[@30by40]

Appreciate the support, Austin!

[@meggtokyodelicious]

I highly recommend you to use magnet sheets for your kitchen under cabinet instead of velcro. Velcro tend to accumulate dust and mold on the course of many years since those cabinets are under and near sink. 😉

[@Swirlingovercoffee]

Part of me wanted the video to go on and on. So satisfying. This is a study in capturing and preserving highlights. I'm "bookmarking" this video for a future, budget-armed me.

[@vaporrift]

Many of the things here I would not have done myself but your logic behind the style made so much sense to me at the same time.

[@fabioalmeidajou]

Man I like your style, please come back, I need tons of people like you doing content! The detail in the process of thinking, amazing 👌

[@designunlimited6215]

Love the aesthetic of your new kitchen; your design choices were great. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻. The sleek, removable shelving on the island backsplash is my favourite design element and I can see that design applied to many other areas of a home, including the display of plants or 'objets' or even a minimalistic bedside table solution for small spaces. The Velcro fixing for the kickboard is a useful idea too!

[@AlphaGeekgirl]

I spent 2 years planning my kitchen. It's been 20 years now, and it still looks brand new, and visitors still go Wow! Better still, its not that it still looks great, but the space is so functional in every way. There's not one thing that I would change. I am glad I spent the time and energy planning it out. The devil is in the details.

[@TheUGCGamer]

Cinematography and editing is incredible again. But your attention to detail and making sure everything is done “right” is why I’m a subscriber for life. Thanks for the video.

[@30by40]

Thanks for noticing, Zach...really appreciate the support!

[@amyjohnson8123]

A huge thank you. You have saved me thousands of €€ and many years of heartache. I won't do butcher block throughout in my new build, it'll have to be something else. You're very good to share this with all of us, thank you again!

[@30by40]

Cheers, glad to help! Good luck with your project...

[@eltonsigauque1338]

Hi Eric... I was waiting for for lesson for long time and I knew that good things were coming. Thank You so Much for sharing

[@jackhanwong9153]

Great that you discussed your choice of lighting fixture and the lighting effect desired. Most of the time lighting quality is ignored and I would love to see a video discussing when diffused lighting or focused lighting is more preferable in a space.

[@iansmith3016]

I think knife holders should be a built in feature. I've seen it in one or two homes floating slightly above counter top level and it looks great along with it being a space saver. You don't have to worry about knife spacing, bumping into it and losing a toe/finger, or a kid getting ahold of it, like this magnetic holder. You can also build your bedroom cabinets into the wall for a more seamless/spacious look

[@Simphome]

Very dedicated! I like your details. Make sure nothing is missed. Great content!

[@30by40]

Much appreciated!

[@HangingGarden606]

The most satisfying watch I've had in awhile.

[@KartickePant]

You’ve ascended from being an architect to being a Master Builder. 🤩😍

[@device222]

Nice job and great documentation. We did Soapstone for our sink Island 10 years ago and it has been amazing. The slab was big enough that we used it for bathroom vanities and tub surround. It is hydrophobic so it is just amazingly low maintenance around the tub.

[@djozlioni]

As somebody who has their first kitchen renovation coming up, this has been very informative! And that built-in soap dispenser... holy sh*t I want that

[@eh_bailey]

Based on the direction of the bowing , it looks like the moisture is coming from the top (expansion in the middle). Really appreciate the talk-through, we did a lot of the same when I updated our kitchen.

[@asadabbas635]

I love your kitchen makeover. It is so minimal yet functional love your idea and I take inspiration from your kitchen for my kitchen thanx for showing me a nice kitchen makeover.

[@Somewhere-In-AZ]

I’ve learned so much from watching you. My tastes are very humble. I’m constantly looking for materials that can be reused.

[@30by40]

So glad to hear...we have similar tastes then...!

[@jdubincali]

Thanks for inspiration for someone looking to renovate my old kitchen. I especially like the range/hood look and the clever details using velcro and magnets.

[@sviataslaubrezouski503]

Wood, stone, metal - looks stunning! Well done!

[@AP-rt5rl]

Fantastic video as always. Your level of subtle minimalism is always appealing to me and I’m sure many others. It’s tough to find a balance with this to where it’s not over bearing but works within the space evenly. Great work! Cheers!

[@30by40]

Thanks, Alex...appreciate the support + kind words...be well!

[@davidkonevky7372]

I was waiting for this so long! I'm happy that we finally get to see the results

[@johnkim1043]

this post is just incredibly awesome. great delivery. you are talented but so humble about decision-making. nothing but admiration👍

[@raydejesus6230]

Good to see you again. As usual the production of your content just gets better and better. Hope to see more soon. Be well.

[@30by40]

Appreciate that, Ray!

[@beautifuldegen]

nicely done. thanks for the tip on the light. I am ordering one for my kitchen today.

[@sofiebribiesca6678]

Excellent choices. Looks fantastic. Keep up the good work. Less is so often, more. and, affordable!

[@Meilat1890]

Best video on DIY I've ever seen.

[@poozizzle]

You designed my friends beautiful new house in Maine, it's nice to see work on your own space. Great videos!

[@30by40]

Thanks, Jay!

[@jcs3330]

It looks great!. Regarding the sink countertop, in a home I once owned I had fitted the same wood top has you have in yours. I was lucky enough though that I didn't have the warping or expansion. (it seemed to hold up for the 5 years that I stayed in the property, prior to selling-up and moving to spain). Although when purchased it wasn't treated, It may have been down to me completely oiling it once a month...or just pure luck. (also got some chopping boards from it....but they weighed a ton!). I am presently in the process of buying a new build after returning to the UK from spain, and because the property has to be 'officially' signed off by the developer before any personal interior changes (ie flooring taps , baths, kitchen sinks etc) can be made to the developers finish. So, ironically, I have to choose from the developer 'limited choice' of 'supposedly free' fittings/extras etc....and them rip them all out to replace with my preferred choices. Seems ridiculous!. I have also been told that depending what I rip out (I plan a bathroom/ cloakroom, worktop and flooring)and replace, could invalidate the warranty!.

[@kharrell8356]

Great work, having the dishes in an easy accessible location, good idea.

[@WM-eg4gh]

love the creativity and making the most of what is best value in your makeover, well done. I agree, flexibility is a must

[@billoconnor1601]

Love this! Great result. Shows what's possible without mazimizing cost and process. Big fan of DIY where it makes sense, This exemplifies tha approach. Well done.

[@30by40]

Cheers, Bill...appreciate the kind words + support!

[@MadMaxFuryRose]

Absolutely fantastic and, dare I say, inspiring video! I loved all your design explanations

[@30by40]

cheers...appreciate that!

[@mrsoccergod5001]

Love the minimalist look. Nice job on the kitchen. I would have added some indirect strip lighting to lighten the room up a little. That seems to be popular in the higher end homes

[@irinacrearina6307]

Amazing big work you did. Thank you. Incredibly interesting

[@motionsick]

Worked in the countertop biz for years and I would always recommend granite for high traffic areas like the sink. It's not just the staining and scratching but also chipping. Soapstone is very soft almost like marble and thought the scratches scan buff out or ad to the look the chips will be more of a nuisance. Quartz is also a good option although its kind of bland. Butcher block is much better on tops that don't see a lot of moisture.

[@imadasmone8915]

One of the most anticipated videos of the year 😁

[@30by40]

\m/

[@fanah.m]

Great Work Eric, I must admit the suspence was killing us lol!!!!!

[@30by40]

Cheers...thanks for waiting! I consider it a small miracle we can build (and finish) anything these days given how difficult it is to source products right now.

[@chasescooper]

Dig the black and industrial styling, and also appreciate you trending away from the “all white” look that’s dominated the last few years, while I actually like the clean white look it’s kinda trendy, but what do I know lol. Great video !

[@30by40]

Thanks, Chase...I think we all seek the timeless qualities in design, but I know how difficult that is to achieve in reality. Will be interesting to see how today's trends hold up over time. Appreciate the feedback...cheers...

[@scottag0]

Amazing production and the music is great. Thanks for the inspiration!

[@andrewagarcia]

Man, I love your videos bro.

[@readwithDavid]

Thank you for taking the time to make this video. I just subscribed. I like that you reflected on changing course while you did this project such as changing the lighting.

[@30by40]

Welcome, David...appreciate the kind words + support!

[@danmiller6215]

Fantastic work as always, Eric! Nothing teaches detail design like getting down and dirty, learning from past mistakes through the DIY process! Please keep up the brilliant work - I recently registered as an Architect with the ARB (I’m based in England) and have certainly been learning a lot from and getting inspired by your content so my deepest thanks!!

[@30by40]

Cheers, mate...always a student!

[@hokipokist]

I was involved with the restoration of a Charles Rennie Mackintosh (oak)tearoom, that is a permanent feature at the V&A Dundee. You'd be surprised how many of the oak wall panels are held up with uber-strong velcro...

[@bradpassow]

Thanks so much for sharing once again! The continued inspiration and motivation are much appreciated. So, so grateful that you were willing to undertake such a transformation to have a new project to share with us. ;)

[@Stephanie-lg1cm]

Absolutely stunning, I have been procrastinating about painting the wall behind my stove in the same charcoal grey colour as the cabinets. That wall has floating wood shelves and is currently white……. I’m going for it!

[@Maninderjit18]

In my list of top ten favorite KZbin channels.

[@30by40]

\m/ thanks!

[@thaOFK]

That scratches on the black Stone Surface Make me nuts!!

[@prestongeorge9469]

I’ve been waiting for so long. This is awesome

[@cheng1991]

I don't know what to say, this is so satisfying

[@PARoth2011]

I appreciate the details and beauty. Well done! Subscribed

[@philiplacey5430]

Nice choices and execution, I'm a cabinet maker and my kitchen is 20 years old now so I'll be doing the same things this year. I have to mention though, your table saw skills scare me - that work piece between the blade and fence always needs a hand on it or a push stick if it's too narrow. It seems odd but it's way safer that way. Thanks for such enlightening content!

[@DaveUnreally]

7:22 why not use cutting board conditioner? Still would look unfinished but is treated with a nice dull shine.

[@rikkistefans]

Great project and results, I learn alot from every video you puplish, from architecture to video presentation. Every video is like a micro class in designing. Keep it up !! : )

[@30by40]

Thanks, Rikki...one of the things that's been most impactful to me as a result of learning photography and video production is the realization that everything can be a designed experience. Appreciate the support + thanks for noticing! Cheers...

[@LenaSaharov]

What a stunning transformation!! Attention to details is just 👌

[@30by40]

Thanks, Elena...cheers...

[@SableSunsets]

I can’t believe I found this channel !!! Love it

[@30by40]

Welcome...glad to have you here...

[@alexanderclaylavin]

You always make my day with a new video

[@30by40]

\m/

[@66meikou]

Some nice bits n pieces there. I couldn't to do what you did although I could do all the work. I rent an early 1900's duplex the I really want to buy. As a modernist it goes against everything but I love the house. I just need to paint all the trim and walls white.

[@darwinjames2000]

Very nice! I need to get some of them shelves at the sink area! Great video...

[@karenkreisel9801]

I did get the tower dish rack. I have been trying to find the perfect dish rack. This one is ok.one time I had a copper sheet folded and made for the bottom part and used a metal rack. But now I needed a smaller dish drain and this tower is nice. I wish it was a tad bigger and made out of metal.

[@pf5658]

Fantastic! Really like the dark and minimalist design. Not everyone can pull this off, but it can look amazing when done well as in this case.

[@timothy-holt]

Came out really nice. Awesome work all around. Cheers, Tim

[@Behzadsmovierecaps]

You did a awesome job for sure. You are really good at renovating. I like to learn some of the things you have done in this video.

[@biancakiss748]

OMG CAN YOU PLEASE JUST POST EVERY DAY!!!!!

[@30by40]

Will definitely try to post more often! Cheers...

[@adrianrosario6457]

This looks so cool!!! I wish I could work and learn from him !

[@jennifergorman7723]

Thanks, gave me some things to think about in my own kitchen design.

[@MrGarda42]

Question: at 9:01 you see a black material atop the dishwasher, what exactly is that material and its purpose? Is it just for sound absorption or does it have additional uses too? Thank you for the fantastic video.

[@jpatcol]

Would love a follow up on the soapstone. How has it been to live with? How has it patinaed? Is the hooked finish enough to keep the "dirtiness" look at bay? 🙏

[@Earth_Systems]

\m/ Nice work Eric. It came out really well, love the vibe with the dark material pallete and the lighting, and the re-purposed counter into boards. \m/

[@30by40]

thanks, Dom...appreciate that! \m/

[@chrisnovelli-n3architecture]

That come out great, nice work Eric

[@randyrice1429]

Great camera work, very cool project, excellent outcome. Well done.

[@30by40]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@mawulinyameso8113]

Wow nice, cutting mats can also be used for cutting vegetables. Yeah cool!

[@30by40]

Good eye, my friend...

[@libniteles]

great video, inspiring design. Some concepts I will try to apply in my own house

[@LouisChiaki]

8:22 if one put some cutting board oil, could those mold be prevent? Or, maybe put some water proof glue to seal the gap between the sink and the wood top.

[@richardlug6139]

If it was mine I would seal the whole underside with poly or anything that prevents moisture absorption.

[@christophermoody1448]

That was so worth the wait. Thanks for sharing!

[@oldporkchops]

Great looking modern look. Thanks for sharing. For the bottom "cabinets", instead of having regular cabinet shelves with doors, did you consider having drawers? A friend went with all extended slide out drawers with heavy duty slide rails to the bottom cabinets to be able to store and see items without squatting down. It also saved her the need to reach to the very back of each cabinet shelf to maximize space. Your design philosophy seems to be a healthy mix of utilitarian practicality and intuitive aesthetics. I like that. Do you do interior design work too?

[@30by40]

Cheers, thanks! Yes, I do all of my own interiors, here's a video on my interior design process: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b4S8cmhrpcuDedU

[@422raziel]

For the toekick at 5:18 you could mount a drawer.

[@MASI1212]

Great job, personally wouldve repainted the cabinets black to match the backdrop, but I completely understand your decision not to.

[@javierbalam3997]

Man this is pure art

[@30by40]

cheers...appreciate that!