I Hired 3 Designers To Redesign My Kitchen!

[@mixed-tape]

I love option #3, BECAUSE you have a dining room. Islands are often utlized for more open concept floor plans, and I think an island with your closed off kitchen is kind of a funky design. I love the idea of having a table in there, and utilizing the U shaped kitchen.

[@Missicupcake]

In my opinion having cabinets come all the way up to the ceiling is great because then you don't have to clean the top of the cabinets :') which is always the place where grease and dirt end up bulding, and everything ends up sticky and gross haha

[@jalifritz8033]

The grease still builds up in the tiny cracks. My grandma had to take the cabinets off to completely clean them at one point.

[@Tamaradraws]

Do NOT put your fridge next to the wall like in the first two designs! I have that now and it’s the worst because the wall stops the door from fully opening making it really hard to get larger things in or out of the side of the fridge next to the wall. You want the fridge door to be able to open fully 180 degrees. Best of luck with the reno. Excited to see the final design 😊

[@JackdawWatcher]

Right?? It really surprised me in the first two designs. Same with a stove right next to the wall in the second one, the worst place to put it, you need space when using it!

[@TheSimArchitect]

Can't remove the shelves for washing, maintenance, if you don't open at least a certain degree, depending on your refrigerator. Not necessarily 180 but 90 isn't usually enough either.

[@Zaurkax14]

@@TheSimArchitect i have my fridge by the wall in my current apartment, previous one, one before, and my family house... So four out of four times. And not a single time was it an issue to pull the shelves out or to pack the groceries in.

[@gretchensmith2852]

I think it depends on the size of the wall and the depth of your fridge doors. A counter depth fridge will not open fully if it’s against a wall. And many normal-depth fridges, especially ones with French doors, are now made with larger shelves than they used to. Those need more than 90 degrees to open or you can’t reach half the interior shelving because of the door shelves.

[@TheSimArchitect]

@@Zaurkax14 This depends on your fridge model and the space you have to open it. I have to drag my refrigerator to remove some parts because the door doesn't open enough otherwise.

[@Uneclipsed]

I love the yellow tones of the second kitchen, but I feel like the last design is the most functional. You can always change the aesthetics, but the layout is solid. While islands are appealing, it's cutting your actual kitchen in half. Remember that you're going to have to maneuver around the island. They're great for a larger kitchen, but it's going to make your space feel cramped and uncomfy to cook and eat in. I recommend letting your kitchen be a functional work space and have your beautiful dinning room be the main room for meals. If you're dead set on having an island, your idea of having an unfixed one is your best bet. You don't want to be stuck with something for years that you've shelled out a bunch of money for and won't be able to easily change.

[@lapsedluddite3381]

The third kitchen was the best layout for having several people cooking together. The first kitchen was my favourite because it is the best layout for a single cook, it would be very easy to cook while perhaps having family sitting at the island for company, and to help carry the food out to the terrace I'd put in, with patio doors behind the island.

[@lithigos]

I can attest to the kitchen island thing. I just moved into a 100 year old home and while the kitchen isn’t super big, the fact that there is so much open space in the middle of the room makes it feel big and roomy without feeling empty. Having the upper cabinets extend to the ceiling will make the walls super functional and make the room feel taller.

[@Chareads]

Omg I have so many thoughts and feelings! Creds - my mum's an interior designer who does a lot of kitchens and we just finished designing my new bespoke kitchen (it's going to be cornflower blue!!) so I have spent a lot of time thinking about kitchens recently. Here are my thoughts: - There definitely isn't enough room for an island. Bare minimum you need 1m of clearance between counters and both those renders had about 80cm behind the stove. If two people can't pass or you can't e.g. walk around an open dishwasher, it's terrible. Nice to have for sure but I think it's best to prioritise functionality. - I would do high cabinets on the dining room wall only. Putting them on the far side or wrapped around will trap the light and make the room feel so much smaller. I'd be much nicer to have open shelving around the sink/window to show off all your nice things, while the functional storage is less visually dominant, especially upon entering the room. - You can totally have a durable wooden countertop as long as it's sealed properly! - okay I'm drawing out a floorplan idea to have all the good bits as well as a coffee bar and spot to sit. I will DM it to you 😆

[@gothdad94]

yes!! i usually love the idea of just one wall of cabinets and a more unfitted kitchen on the other side, which is kind of what I've seen in a lot of old kitchens

[@Michelle15556]

YES! I AGREE WITH ALL THE POINTS YOUV'VE MADE!

[@MoonlightGossamer]

Yes! The kitchen is too small for an island and since your family lives with you, reducing the walking space will just make it frustrating to have more than 1 person in the room doing anything

[@clemclemclem-1]

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[@maleahlock]

Yes!! I just kept scratching my head while she talked about their landlords wooden benches. Like. . . .are they not sealed? Waxed at the very least? Why?! hehe

[@theonlyenekoeneko]

If you go for an art wall, you could feature your mug collection in it, dispersed on various hooks or tiny shelf moments throughout the other art? So enjoying watching your lovely home renovation! It’s delightfully colourful and refreshingly different ❤

[@MikoSubaru]

My biggest worry about the 2 designs with the islands is that there wouldn't be enough space to stand in front of tbe oven with the oven door open. It feels like it would really hinder the functionality

[@adorehazel2757]

Y’all are making great points !!

[@SmallTownSpells]

I think the fixed island layouts make the kitchen feel really small and like it would be hard to have multiple people in there at the same time. The open layout felt a lot better and having a moveable island seems like the way to go to me ✨

[@tammietravis2395]

Put it on locking casters. 👍🏼

[@ClaireFaith]

Make sure to take into account opening your fridge door. Very annoying if they hit a wall or cabinet and you're unable to take out the shelves or drawers if you need to. :)

[@LittlePrairieLibrary]

THIS! My friend built a house and have the most incredible kitchen, but the fridge is beside a wall and they can't open the door far enough to open the drawers inside!

[@samfarmer331]

There's always room for a wine rack or spice storage at the side of a fridge so it can open

[@ti1286]

And why not a new door to the garden?? Leading to a cute area with a wooden table outside and lots if plants where you would want to have breakfast or lunch in summer in the sun ❤️

[@ti1286]

…am I being too optimistic about Canadian weather? 🙈

[@adorehazel2757]

Yes I wish so much our door led out back in the kitchen it would make so much more sense that what it is now also hate that I have to see my neighbors directly on then just walk out back

[@adorehazel2757]

But I hate human interaction so that could be me lol

[@michelepastele5347]

yes! and a clothesline.

[@debbyda]

Soooo underrated!!! 🎉

[@jessmercedes2669]

I also highly recommend incorporating as many (deep) drawers as humanly possible over cabinets, especially on the bottom half of the kitchen, they're so much more useful!!!!!!

[@FarmgirlFriday]

Yes! I never recommend cabinets on the base units. Drawers are so much more accessible!

[@oohlookatthatdoggo]

Good point! My parents have cabinets with drawers in them, that is also a good option! Great for food storage, nothing gets lost

[@adorehazel2757]

Agreed

[@ritaferreira7394]

I know this is random 🤔 but even though I’m not a designer, I am a 3D student. I’ve been watching you for so long and i feel like we have similar styles. I kinda want to design your kitchen in 3D, knowing a bit more about what you might like, gives an advantage. 😆 And if you’re actually interested, I would do it for free since it would help my portfolio! Thank you girl for doing these videos, I love where the house design is going, since you manage to mix your personality with the quirks of an old house! I don’t know if you’re even going to see this message, but I love you anyways! 🥰

[@debbyda]

Hope we can see this!!

[@sofiamckay455]

Booost🎉

[@alicias.8482]

3rd layout is most usable and functional. They all seem kind of modern compared to other rooms in your house, though

[@vaderladyl]

I think the designs are too modern for the style and age of the house too. Totally different from the rest of the house, unless she is going to change the rest to look more like the kitchen design?

[@chemistryflavored]

Having just finished a renovation here are my two cents: map out island and cabinet dimensions in your current space (painters tape is great for this) to get a feel for clearances and size esp when opening oven and fridge doors, save your old cabinet doors if you can and use them to test your paint colors since you can move them around in different light and mimic cabinets better than just painting walls, pick your countertops first and then choose complementing materials or it becomes impossible to complement everything else, think about where you want things to be stored when choosing cabinets (drawers vs shelves etc). Anyways I’m sure there’s more but have fun with it! And yes go for color! I went with a deep teal for my lower cabinets and white for uppers and I get constant complements and even better the darker color on bottom is forgiving when it comes to dirt, spills, etc.

[@sarahmcdonough7713]

you being bored by the white subway tiles is exactly why i love watching this series lol. love how much personality, colour, and intrigue you add to the house.

[@fantasyk87]

I like the last design/layout but with different colors and definetely not that many textures. Honestly islands are great but they can make the room smaller so I don't know if it's worth it. I gotta add that the coffee/tea space in the first design was delicious!

[@cucug8324]

Ariel maybe you could do a peninsula instead of an island? Like in the third layout, add a peninsula to the end of the counter along where the door to the dining room is. And you can add stools to one side. One thing that I learned from when my family redid the kitchen is that you shouldn’t underestimate how much counter and cabinet space is really needed, especially if you enjoy cooking and want to have all kinds of gadgets.

[@marlymarlymarly]

Yes! Just a lil Peninsula for two stools to make the kitchen more of a hang out space!

[@LiteraryMultitudes]

Second that! I have something similar in the kitchen and it doesn't take as much space but adds a layer to the layout which makes it feel bigger imo.

[@nicoleelery7612]

Yes! I came here to say peninsula added to layout 3 as well. Nothing too long that would close it off too much, just long enough for two small stools

[@kaileia_4]

Yep yep yep. Peninsula!

[@ArielBissett]

Not a bad idea!! I’ve sort of had a peninsula this whole time with a folding table and I’ve found it a little frustrating because it cuts off the space but if it was pretty and had stools… we might be talking!

[@ChelSierra_Remly]

They have "Kitchen Island Carts" / "Rolling Kitchen Islands" that you can move around, or in and out of, the kitchen. If you have space in the dining room, that could be where you store it out of the way.

[@Beruthiel45]

Yes, Ikea has, or had such an item, a few years ago that I used, then one of my granddaughters used, then my daughter got it. Very useful, narrow, but long, and with a shelf and rods for towels, and casters too. Natural wood colour with just a semi gloss finish. Versatile to the max. 😊

[@David-un4cs]

The U shaped kitchen feels so much bigger and the free floating table island idea is something I think would be wonderful! The right table could add so much character to the space!!

[@dawnbassett6926]

You can treat and seal wood countertops so that you put wet things on them and not worry about damage. If you are really rough on them, they’re pretty easy to refinish and they look like new again!

[@rachu816]

If you like the framed art but want it to be more useful- maybe frame some family recipes and include photos of the product too? I think that would be cute in a kitchen!

[@dianetysilva8489]

that is actually very sweet! I adored your idea!

[@peachylix]

I love the third one. It suits the space the most and if you simlified the colors and textures to make it feel less modern, I think it would fit in with the house perfectly. The two designs with islands just make the space feel so small and weirdly oblong. If you really want an island for practical use, I agree using a table or mobile island would work better. Or, instead of going with a full U shape, you could do an L shape on the left and top walls and then use the right wall for a tabletop work space. That also might help the room feel more open.

[@valarya]

My number 1 tip with upper cabinets is to ALWAYS go up to the ceiling!! I cannot waaaaait for this series omg. Also as other people have stated, watch XO, MaCenna - she just built her entire kitchen herself (cabinets, doors, island, etc). 💪

[@mcurit857]

Agree. I have a very small kitchen, but when i had it "remodeled" a couple of years ago (just replaced everything vs. redesign), the cabinets were designed to go to the ceiling. The old cabinets were built in place and went to the ceiling, and it was a no-brainer to keep it that way. Now when i see other kitchens with shorter cabinets, I don't feel it looks as nice. Although not custom per se, it feels more custom to have more grand upper cabinets. Bonus, a little more storage :)

[@ana-morgana]

Yes, completely agree, on just a purely practical level, I lived in an apartment with cabinets that didn't and I hated having to get out a ladder to clean up there it was such a pain

[@nitroxler]

Agreed! I live in a tiny apartment where the upper cabinets don’t go all the way to the ceiling and it’s just always so dusty and not that useful

[@lindieriksen1968]

YEP! They get so dusty and greasy up there. Always to the ceiling.

[@theyhappyhiker]

Yeah, nobody wants to clean on top of cabinets

[@jtrevy]

I really think you should go with the yellow color. Yes, you said you love the rust color. But you said the yellow made you so happy. You want to be happy in your kitchen. Gloria

[@justindesantiago5459]

“A table as an unfixed kitchen object” : YES YES YES!!!!! That would be so cozy and classic and beautiful!!!

[@ArielBissett]

Yes!! There’s gonna be some great unfixed/unfitted pieces in our future with this kitchen!

[@ke_nickie]

sitting at your kitchen table peeling fresh apples to make a pie 🥧 the farmyard dream 🥹

[@Hellenen]

Yes, a moveable table with wheels🎉

[@nixi7688]

I have seen some pull out tables that you could factor in . Basically looks like a drawer that you can pull out and fold the table top down on

[@ramblingsofgabby]

If you plan to have a kitchen table at all times consider installing an electrical plug in the floor under where the table is. If you're going to be short on counter space you can always store the occasional use appliances in your pantry/closet and set them up on the table when you need them.

[@DesertBloomBettas]

the third layout is definitely my favorite - it makes the kitchen seem less cramped, but I like the brighter colors of the green/yellow better than the darker more muted colors of the third. you could always try a thin roll-away island for the kitchen that can be moved out of the way if needed, or cut out the cabinets in the lower portion of the far wall, add a big picture window, and use that counter space as a bar - letting you have a small space to sit and enjoy the kitchen that is also out of the way when you're working, and provides a lot of light. I'm hugely in favor of more light in kitchens - it just feels better to not be in a tiny cramped, dark space.

[@ladysparkymartin]

I know perimeter design feels boring but it makes so much sense in a kitchen. And built in islands are permanent. So I think your idea of experimenting with a more fluid “island” in the #3 design is great. I was thinking that too! That’s my favorite and as a template, it can then be adorned for your aesthetic. Cool video, thank you!

[@uriah19s]

My home growing up had a table that was pulled out from the cabinets if we needed extra space. It is great! It was a slab of wood between the countertop and the cabinets, with a folded leg, basically we will pull out the slab (one end will stay connected in the space its stored), pull down the leg, and had a whole extra table to work on. If you want more details / it's not clear here, I can maybe try to draw it

[@serendipitousprincess6142]

I have a built-in table that extends into the middle of my tiny kitchen. One that could be put away would be so much better.

[@shellsisacoolpear]

the 3rd render was definitely the best layout wise, but they used WAY too many different colours/cabinets/shelves so it looked more slapped together rather than intentional. As for the vent hood, I know where I live you don't HAVE to have it vented outdoors. Mine isn't, but that is definitely something you would need to look into if you want to put your oven on that wall. Wood countertops are definitely a viable option as long as they're sealed well, and you take the time to refinish them if needbe, or epoxy them.

[@lil_swarlette]

It was definitely the best layout but still room to improve - the stove being so far away from the oven will probably get annoying really fast. imo it would be better to have the stove where the dishwasher is, or the oven underneath the stove

[@jenniferross882]

I didn't like any of them. I hope you cAn pull and get inspiration from all 3.

[@MissMojoify]

I LOVE the layout of the third design .. I think it’s the way to go in your own style!

[@gabriellefendell6750]

Consider making lots of drawers in place of cabinets, and a baking nook. The drawers are so much easier to access all of your stored items without crawling into the cabinets or removing things in front. I am going to add pull out drawers into the cabinets in my own kitchen. I absolutely love the baking nook! The kitchenaide mixer, blender, food processor, Emersion blender all fit easily in the nook and hide the items yet they are easily accessible. Also a pull out trash can covered with a cabinet door is really convenient.

[@LozzyLou3]

We have a yellow kitchen and it's honestly the most cheerful sight on a morning 💛

[@charoraimondogarcia]

You should watch McKenna videos about her kitchen. She did all her cabinets herself and explains everithing in full detail Edit: I like aspects of every design but non of them seems like you. You design more whimsy and old timey and everyone of these is more modern. Like the first is very farmhouse and very tired (everyone has thise kitchen now), the secong is more midcentury modern (I love the yellow but I don't see it in your house), the last one vibes more real to your house but has some industrial touches that are a no go (the layout is what goes better to the time period of your house)

[@agresticumbra]

What is her channel called?

[@aga3006]

​@@agresticumbra XO, MaCenna

[@FolkFaninMA]

I was thinking the same thing when she mentioned maybe building the cabinets herself. 😀 MaCenna has done some amazing work on that house.

[@charoraimondogarcia]

@@FolkFaninMA yes! and she is very detail oriented so her step by step are very good

[@bluecurlygirl]

@Maria CANCER So sorry for your troubles. Hopefully treatment goes well. Can I just say that if your surname isn't really cancer then why make it part of your identity? It doesn't define who you are. Making it part of your identity is psychologically welcoming it in and heck you don't want to do that. Don't let that bitch get it's own pair of slippers and settle down. Kick it's butt right back out again.

[@friisab]

U-shaped gets you the most kitchen, also most useful if multiple people are cooking together

[@jdb101585]

Incorrect. Corner counterspace is the least functional, and standing in the corner blocks two sections of straight counter. A properly done galley kitchen gets you the most usable space.

[@jjbowman4653]

@@jdb101585incorrect. hallway sized kitchens allow one person to travel one way and the person making dinner has to wait for that person to get out of the way so they can continue making dinner, and they will continue to be interrupted the ENTIRE time. Every single time someone wants some water, grab a cup/plate/utensil if they need to throw out garbage 🤦🤦🤦

[@jdb101585]

​@@jjbowman4653 I never said a hallway sized kitchen, I said a galley style kitchen. A galley sized kitchen needs proper clearance behind those working, just like every other kitchen, and primary circulation should not be through the work space.

[@vaderladyl]

I vote for the U shaped. I had both galley and U shape and U shape I find is the most useful.

[@golivia8084]

If you want to keep the little window I think it would look very neat and purposeful with open shelving around it, kind of incorporating it as a bigger decorative shelf

[@clemclemclem-1]

yes! i wanted more of the designs to keep it with open shelving around it

[@grimmgoosegoose216]

EXACTLY! it would look so fun!

[@ArielBissett]

I have such a beautiful idea for that window JUST YOU WAIT AND SEE

[@snoopy_poopy]

​@@ArielBissett yay im so glad , the little window adds so much personality

[@althea1462]

Hi! So many thoughts and love how these three designers gave you different ideas. Am also a designer and recently redid our kitchen, moving from a galley style kitchen with a fixed island on one side (our old kitchen was a very similar layout to the second design you shared.) Guests never wanted to sit at the stools because the space felt so small… Also, once we removed the fixed island I realized how annoying and anxiety producing that long galley was. If more than one person needed to be in there it felt so crowded. Without even fully realizing it, we had basically resigned ourselves to only having one person in the kitchen at a time. Once we opened that up to more of an ‘L’ / ‘U’ shape we could have 2 or even 3 people functioning in the kitchen at once. Everything suddenly felt easier and the space felt so much larger. We included a small wooden island on casters with drawers and open shelves for extra storage and it is perfect! Just think through how many people you might want to be able to use the space at once before you finalize the layout!

[@funkygiovi]

this is such a fun video, i totally agree with you saying that it s super hard to imagine a different layout once your brain kinda locks down on one, so this is super useful to see what other possibilities are out there!

[@ArielBissett]

right?! without someone else giving you an idea it's tough for your brain to hold multiple layouts in your mind!

[@maryw3432]

No matter the amount of counter space, it's always nice to have two pull out bread board/cutting board on each side of the cooktop. I use mine all the time, they are so handy, and then just clean and push back under the countertop.

[@kimwood6632]

For the style of your home I would love to see more none kitchen storage solutions like a big wooden hutch with more of a table type island using your sink (that only 1 did). I have butcher block countertops and they're sealed properly once a year and I don't worry at all about water staining or anything as it's easy ro fix when re sealing. I think they all missed the mark and didn't think if adding casement windows and beams to match the esthetic of your house.

[@agresticumbra]

Ya, having part of the kitchen at least appear as not built-in would be great aesthetic. I love an unfitted kitchen, personally.

[@maleahlock]

I agree with all of your points. I just keep imagining how perfect the coffee area would be with a beautiful hutch or flour cabinet.

[@paularyan8400]

The U shape is my favorite because I envision the other end of your kitchen with one or two wingback chairs and a round table for your cozy moment. A more traditional approach which seems to suit yourself and your home Have fun making it your own!!

[@fcurtis]

I recently thrifted a copy of The Kitchn's cookbook which goes into depth about how to design a kitchen! One important thing that stood out to me was the triangle of sink, stove, fridge. The way these three elements are arranged in relation to each other makes a big difference in the utility of you space while you're cooking! I'd recommend their book for kitchen design inspiration. They also have profiles on various people's kitchens and how they use them!

[@lil_swarlette]

Also the oven!

[@clemclemclem-1]

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[@KatjeKat86]

The kitchen triangle is what I grew up referring to that as.

[@kaybee7860]

yes that’s a great point!

[@bunny_0288]

My kitchen made a triangle pretty much impossible when we renovated. It's long and narrow, and there is a walkway on the right side that runs from the front door through the house to the back door, so I can't have anything on the far right wall because it would block the walkway. So we did an L shape with a long narrow island, leaving space for the walkway on the right side of the island. This means the sink is on the short part of the L, the stove is on the long part of the L catty-cornered from the sink, and then at the very end of the long part of the L I have the built in oven and then the fridge at the very end right next to the oven. It's hard when you can't put anything on the right wall to get that really nice triangle. I think U shaped kitchens are perfect for getting that great triangle. Sometimes you have to work with the shape of the room and do your best.

[@Amylyn50]

LOVE the 3rd design.

[@katherinemclean3066]

This is a great way to get a peek at different ideas and make sure you don't get stuck in one way of thinking about a space. None of these seemed like your style at all, but now I'm more excited to see what you have decided to do!

[@FolkFaninMA]

Agreed, none of these speak to Arial’s sense of design.

[@cindyurban150]

@@FolkFaninMA Agreed , None of these go with the cozy, bookish vibes of the rest of the house.

[@vaderladyl]

These don't go with the style of the house or her personal style, but I think in terms of better use of space, the third one is the winner

[@Jenjenilou]

That first design with the green cabinets was fab. Also why more windows on that outside wall? Not needed. You’ve got two decent sized outside windows already, plenty for a room that size. Use that wall space as a gallery wall. You could even add a bench or cozy armchair to sit and drink your coffee.

[@lannapeanut]

Suggestion, depending on the layout you opt for - since you’re replacing the windows anyway, you could replace one of them with patio doors (let’s in more light, would allow you to make a little patio outside to eat when the weather is nice). That’s what I would’ve put in the first design (if the outside space allowed for it), it would’ve made that blank wall better. I can’t wait to see what you come up with,

[@amara560]

Wouldn't that open out to the front where there is a road or the side where there is the drive way? Or am I getting things mixed up?

[@mellodecember6654]

I honestly love the layout of the first kitchen (green) and that empty wall I would put french doors on and open it to the outdoors. This was great to watch, thanks.

[@thefrenchmode]

I feel like the layout and moodiness of the third design, with your idea of a nice wooden table in lieu of a kitchen island, and the coffee bar and high cabinets of the first design combined would be soooo good!

[@angeliqueazul8670]

Thank you for the lovely video! Personally, I think I preferred the last design without a kitchen island because that felt less cramped and looked like a better use of the space. I completely agree though that it was too many textures. Open shelving is very popular now but is a pain to keep tidy in the kitchen. I really like cabinets with glass fronts as an alternative. I cannot wait to see your kitchen renovation, Ariel! Best of luck! :)

[@c13bubbles]

We have an itty bitty kitchen in my house but ADORE our rolling butcher block thing. It functions like an island so well, can be moved and locked easily, and has a bit of storage underneath which is essential to our lives! love all of this creativity and can't wait to see how your kitchen emerges!

[@bontenholly]

I honestly think the black backsplash is what makes the third design so stunning. It works so well with the color scheme

[@andreamalik2961]

Hello! The U shaped kitchen is definitely the most functional but also makes the room look larger. I think if you replace the (awful) wooden stuff at the far end of the u shaped kitchen & did your coffee bar there with open shelving for your mugs above it, it would look great. You could also consider making the coffee bar with no cabinets beneath it, so you could have stools there to sit & chat over coffee. A long, very narrow table could give you your kitchen island feel, whilst making it not fixed in place. I love your videos x

[@rclark7393]

I agree with getting rid of the wooden stuff and putting in coffee bar like in option 1 but was then struggling to figure out where to put the fridge...

[@andreamalik2961]

@R Clark that's true. Although if it were me I wouldn't be having fitted kitchen cupboards. I'd prefer standalone pieces of furniture like old dressers & chests of drawers etc. My parents have their kitchen full of separate, old pieces and it's gorgeous & much more eclectic (& much cheaper!). Suppose you could slot the fridge in anywhere then.

[@jocummings3202]

Hey I'm a kitchen designer in the UK and I know we have very different kitchens and smaller appliances than you guys but watching this made my fingers itchy to re-design it again, only number 2 captured your aesthetic. I don't know if you have these in Canada but in a lot of apartments we put in extractors with recirculating kits, the charcoal filters inside them get rid of any cooking smells and pump the air back into the room without losing any heat. No outside ducting necessary so they can be placed onto the dining room wall and they're a lot more economical in terms of keeping your house warm!

[@user-ed7et3pb4o]

That’s very smart!

[@sarahsullivan4564]

Jo-I felt the same way, as a fellow cabinet designer/dealer. I wanted to take a crack at it, too. Looks like a fun challenge. 😅😊

[@TheYellowcrush]

This was so fun! As a person with a kitchen island, that is the one thing we are going to remove/change whenever we redo our kitchen. It feels like we are always navigating around it or passing stuff over it and it becomes a clutter spot, especially if there are no outlets in it so you can use it as a prep spot. Also for things like knives, we put a magnetic bar up to mount ours above our prep counter and it has been so nice as a way to both get countertop space back and have it more open and accessible. Function is so important!

[@clemclemclem-1]

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[@cattuslavandula]

Yes! I happily yanked that thing out of the kitchen in my last house and was gobsmacked by how much more open the kitchen became and how much easier it was to navigate in it. With a table and a few chairs, the room became welcoming, cheerful and relaxed.

[@alexamcwilliams6495]

I think you should do this for the spooky room! Loved this video!!

[@sydneymichelebby]

can’t wait to see how it looks combined with the rest of your house!

[@ArielBissett]

ME TOO. It's going to be so satisfying feeling like the kitchen has become one of the nice areas haha

[@Nate_is_a_BurgerBoy]

Ariel, you 1000% need yellow somewhere in your kitchen. It’s so lovely and warm. I agree that islands are so awesome and useful. We bought a beautiful butcher block island from ikea and is so great to have. Maybe something like that can be your pop of wood tone.

[@annaighouesnard3352]

A few advices on kitchens : you can have too much storage, really (and accumulate stuff inside that you don't need). An island is a great place for other people to sit and talk with you while you cook. The sink should DEFINITELY be below a window. And remember the holy trinity : kitchen, stove, prep space. Mine are in a triangular formation (stove close to the sink, island/prep table in front) and this saves you so much going back and forth. Can't wait to see what you transform your kitchen into !

[@FloralFidelity]

Design #1 was my favorite! love the fridge & sink placement--a window over the sink is so dreamy! the coffee bar was so so good and your idea for the unfixed island would work for this one as well! i'd keep the weird window open and add some open shelving around it. the wall is def too open but it'd be great for some french doors or another window and some art!

[@tmtb80]

A window over the sink is the best. Kitchens without that always feel depressing to me.

[@christinascaduto5943]

Ariel, focus on the layout bc you can decide on all the other things once the layout is what you want. I love the third one as there is a lot of counter space and storage. I have a rolling island that makes up for the lack of the fixed island, and it works perfectly.

[@carharsch]

Hi Ariel, I've been watching your videos for about a year and I love your quirky style and inventive designs! My initial thought is to go with a farmhouse style kitchen, with older and vintage pieces. Freestanding cabinets, a work table or island, a refurbished stove, an antique hutch or cupboards. Build all the storage you need, maybe have a pantry area for things that aren't used all the time, etc. You have a delightful style going; I'd like to see the kitchen reflect you and the rest of the house. Oh, and please, leave that wonderful pass through into the dining room! And have fun! Carolyn Schaefer Concord, Massachusetts

[@MizriaHex]

I love the last one so much but with the coffee bar from the first design!! You are going to do such a good job no matter which one you choose!! Can't wait to see the process

[@Jennifer.Greene]

Yeah the coffee bar is a must - Mia Maples did a similar coffee bar in her kitchen recently and it’s the same idea but styled more like Ariel would and it would look fantastic.

[@MizriaHex]

@@Jennifer.Greene YES! I saw that too! I love Mia Maples!!

[@tonyallen1019]

FUN!! I enjoyed hearing your generous & honest critiques of both the +/-'s. What you brought up was well expressed & I could definately see/understand your points of view. Please consider doing this processing for your upstairs area. I totally enjoy your approaches whether on your books or decorating ideas & house renovations.

[@Nikki.M]

Oh, I hope there are wood beams in the ceiling! ❤ For the kitchen, I'd suggest a locking wheel butcher block type island. They're available in so many different styles and sizes. Also, looking at the third design made me wonder about considering the view straight through from the dining room and somehow creating a focal point in that spot. Maybe even a window there, for more light to travel through both rooms?

[@lisacheney7904]

I totally agree on the mobile island. I have one and it is so handy to be able to move it where I need it at the moment and then out of the way when it's not needed.

[@LynneWilliams101]

For me and my style, I absolutely love #3 with certain minor changes. The cabinets are fabulous and like what I assume are double ovens on the far end wall. While #1 and #2 were ok, #3 felt welcoming (for me and my personal style). Looking forward to what you decide with your own style!!

[@lbridge2010]

Definitely steer clear from wood countertops unless you’re prepared to properly treat it and maintain it regularly! I had them for like two years and I didn’t do a good job maintaining them and they got slimy, stained, mildewy and gross. I switched it out for a laminate that looks like wood and it gives the exact same effect but for way cheaper and way easier to maintain!

[@RememberTheLord]

That sounds amazing (the laminate)! Where can you get a laminate counter that looks like wood? Would love a link or anywhere you can direct me to! Great advice. ❤

[@vaderladyl]

@@RememberTheLord Anywhere they sell laminate countertops. Google for wood look cabinets.

[@angelaglidewell]

You can put a stove fan vent inside a cupboard. That was a lot of fun! I enjoyed it too. What I liked about the yellow kitchen is they used the sink. And they used the quirky window. I would incorporate that into the kitchen you liked the best.

[@letitiajohnson6987]

Yes! Please get renderings done for the spooky room! 🤩

[@dressesindenim7396]

I really see your kitchen being a colorful, french county, eclectic feel. Just very cozy and "cluttered" with a beautiful lamp in the corner for evening.

[@jazeolo]

I think the layout of #3 is perfect, and the colours in #2 suit the space best, and might work even better with the wooden cabinets, yellow walls, and white tile backsplash. #1 and #2 have the advantage of the island, but as you say, getting a table in there would solve that issue, and you would be able to move it!

[@quinnhen2325]

Very exciting! As an old mom who has had multiple kitchens redone, (with a mom who designed and built houses) and is also a cook/baker, you need lots of counter space. You think you don’t, but no matter what, we always want or need more. 😁 One thing my present kitchen doesn’t have that I miss from my last custom kitchen is pull out lower shelves. Hardly anyone can bend easily and get to the items in the far back reaches of a lower cabinet. Save your back and help the resale value of your house and get pull out shelving in your lower cabinets. Also, keep the style you’ve started in the rest of your beautiful home in mind with your kitchen. It’d be odd to have everything a certain cosy, quirky aesthetic and walk into an extremely modern and cold kitchen. I love all the colors and creativity in your gorgeous home, and look forward to seeing your kitchen!!!

[@Raedrie]

I am DYING to see the kitchen and the Spooky Room transformations!

[@catreadsabunch]

I feel like the first one is the best! I would just reverse the walls like you were saying and the island & coffee station is perfect! Moving the microwave is easy and you could even get one for above a stove with a vent. I think you can change everything else to your taste! I will say I've lived in the 2nd kitchen layout and it sucks. so much wasted space. Sending love on your amazing renovation journey 💕

[@sweetpisces96]

only 5 mins in but please consider a narrow, antique bakers table as your island. I've seen them left all wood and I've seen them with stone tops. Absolutely stunning and goes with the age of your home :) ok updates - I have so many ideas: quartz countertops would be perfect. They come in a lot of options and are very durable and low maintenance while still being a natural material. Also, look into brick pavers for kitchen floors; its such a historic look that would play off the wood beams well. A victorian "unfixed" kitchen all along one wall would be true to the home and give a lot of floor space. For the art wall, pretty aprons and aesthetic hanging cutting boards can be like art but also utilitarian. For the backsplash - look at "hand glazed" subway tiles. They're way more raw and natural. Paired with dark grout for contrast.

[@izabelaj2310]

I really like the 3rd design, in terms of storage and the placement. I think storage in the kitchen is very important if you want to actually have functional kitchen that you are cooking in etc. Great video :)

[@markkenney6806]

My favourite design was the first one. I just love the layout and I think you could use that blank wall space for your many mugs by putting loads of little hooks on that blank wall. I also think an island would be very useful because you mentioned that you would want somewhere to sit in the kitchen and I think an island would look better than a bench and be more useful 😊

[@Life.W.Walkinshaw]

wood is totally fine especially if you clear epoxy the top :) you get that beautiful wood look and its durable :) also be cautious of fridges side by side on a wall and the doors being able to open fully . My husband is a cabinet installer and there are so many times that he has to re-design with fridges because the handles of fridges don't allow the doors to fully open :)

[@siddd1855]

I’d love another sims rendition with your updated ideas of your kitchen!!

[@teresaebner4110]

I don’t know if you already know the video about Matilda Goad’s kitchen - if not you should definitely check that out! Her style really reminds me of you with her love for colour, fun tiles, coziness and practicality! She also has a beautiful old table as a kitchen island in the middle of the room! 💛 Anyways I’m very excited to see what you’ll do!

[@user-ed7et3pb4o]

I love Matilda’s kitchen window seat - I could really see Ariel doing something similar on her narrow wall

[@mellowenglishgal]

We need that vibrant green kitchen! I have ceiling-height cabinets and they are brilliant - plus you don’t have to dust above them! But my kitchen is also tiny and I only have one wall of cabinets (two, actually, either side of my oven!) I wouldn’t put the stove next to the wall for accessibility - it’s a nightmare if you’re putting anything big in the oven! Also, bigger windows! Bring in all that sunshine!

[@chloemonette7427]

Your house gives me Victorian vibes and having the cabinets go all the way to ceiling will further emphasize that, so why not go with the layout of the last kitchen but then put a nice big distressed tall wood table in the middle of the kitchen with gives you that island you like? I feel like that would be very functional and really play into your design :) excited to see what you do!

[@chloemonette7427]

Oh lol I should have finished your video. You literally say that right after I commented!

[@Jennifer.Greene]

I’m obsessed with wood countertops right now, I cook ALOT though so I’m not sure they’re practical but I’m really tempted…I love the warm cozy vibes they give.

[@Uneclipsed]

They're lovely but really impractical and require regular maintenance and care. And if you don't take care of them, they'll require replacing. Not just because of nicks, dents and staining, but also because of warping and wood rot. Even if a waterproof seal is applied, they can still warp from moisture and temperature changes over time. Aesthetically, they're top notch, but this is just something to think about.

[@carolyndietrich8214]

I like the first and third layouts. I think the third layout with a table for the island makes the best use of every wall. I’m happy to hear it made you excited about working on your kitchen! It will be a huge job but so worth it.

[@bycarolinakobayashi]

Hi Ariel! I've had some experience working w interior designers, so I want you to know that you can always continue to give them feedback + further info of what you want and it allows the designers to make some changes and personalize the kitchen even more, despite already have created a 3D rendering of a kitchen idea (which is not final). You can ask them to change the layout, height of the cabinets, adding diff chairs, adding a possible rolling cart, etc. and they'll attempt to adapt and translate all your requests through planning (for possible execution purposes). The choice of designer really relies of what kind of style of design they work with and also the client's budget they can work with. There is a lot of freedom and challenges involved and it can be really fun to find out what you can do alongside a professional.

[@universallyinsync]

Dear Ariel: I just wanted to say how much I appreciate your videos, and not just because I am a reader, I like old stuff, and renovating older homes, your creativity, and how articulate you are, though that's plenty! I really like #3 myself. If the cabinets over the sink are too much, just put some shelves there; I agree about the door, I'd want something warmer, cork, or laminated real wood? And you can definitely make other choices for the back splash and possibly just paint where the wood is. And I saw an 80s hutch bottom turned into movable storage, with wheels. It would make a great island, and hold pantry or baking stuff. I am a green lover, too. Enjoy your process!

[@staceyvanier15]

Well, where to start. Loved the idea of a U-shaped kitchen as it gives lots of cabinet and counter space. Really liked the coffee bar option in the first one. Make sure you get pot drawers instead of just cabinets on the bottom, it will change your life. Also no open shelves near cooktop...constant cleaning. I like the idea of an antique harvest table in U-shaped design. Yellow kitchen felt like two corridors and not very practical. I also think tweeking of appliance placement is needed in U-shaped. Redid ours last year, it turned out great. All the best!❤

[@staceyvanier15]

Also if you are thinking of making your own cabinets give Elisha English KZbin a gander. She has totally made her kitchen and pantry cabinets from scratch. Also redoing an old house in Nova Scotia. Not for the faint of heart.

[@deeannemason7003]

Ooo, oooo, oooo I LOVE that third one! The rich colors, warm and comfortable. Every element just flows. Plenty of counter space and cabinets! Wow! You could replace that black tile with a stone or pebble one. Make the wood cabinets in the door corner cream like the cabinet next to it. I have a stainless top high bistro table in my kitchen for my island.

[@olivxe]

i love the layout of the last one, especially having the sink in front of the window, but i prefer the theme of the first (as well as the coffee station). I agree that there is a lot of wasted space in the first design and it looks unbalanced. and I do think that if you could include an island/ seating area would be great for when you have company!! especially since the kitchen is a separate room from the dining room/ living room. can’t wait to see what you come up with!! ❤

[@duckpondwithoutducks]

Yes, please, do a video like this with designs for the spooky room. 👏 I agree that there are two many textures in the 3rd design, but the U-shape definitely seems like it would be the most functional. In the first design, I’m surprised they didn’t put in patio doors on the outside wall for more light.

[@SamWest96]

Ariel I'm literally obsessed with your outfit. I kept pausing to appreciate your shirt, top, trouser combo

[@butterpecanrican_]

Dear sweet Ariel, thank you for inspiring me and making me feel brave enough to finally tackle decorating our house. I had been stuck in analysis paralysis combined with massive fear of messing up since we bought it in 2021. I've since painted a room black, yes BLACK and I'm adding actual colors to the rest of the house! I'm not a fan of white on white on white on gray on white etc. You've shown me that it's ok to take the chance and add the color! Just do it!

[@jdb101585]

Black rooms can be fantastic!

[@levim6693]

This is getting me so excited to see more kitchen videos! I think the layout of kitchen 3 is the most functional, but agree that there are too many textures, ect. The black is so heavy compared to the whimsical and dreamy vibe of the rest of the house. Something similar to the color vibe from 2 would brighten up 3 so much. Adding a peninsula on the end cabinet right by the door on 3 would help the lack of the island for sure. Can't wait to see more! 💛 Something else to consider that the first two designers did is that those double door fridges against a wall are very cumbersome! You lose a lot of access to one side by not being able to actually fully open the door against the wall and can even damage the wall over time.

[@kathygirlygirl4109]

Ariel, the 3rd kitchen has by far the best layout and you put your touch on it. It gives so many textures but you can see what works and doesn't. I agree on the table. One thing you might want to think about is putting an outlet in the floor where the table will go so you can have a small lamp on it like a quaint cafe'. We have a small lamp on our drop leaf table with one leaf dropped against the wall. It's just hubby and I but it gives such a homey feel. You have great stuff to work with here and I know with your talent, your kitchen will be stunningly beautiful!

[@megankilinski4580]

I love the first design, I would put in full length windowed doors on the righthand wall and make a patio outside the kitchen, and put tiled floors in the kitchen and patio to make a indoor/outdoor feel (my personal dream, idk if it would work with the layout of your house)!

[@nursesmitty9503]

Oooooh Ariel!! I have to say the 3rd design is absolutely STUNNING!!. If it were my house I would definitely go with that one!! I agree with you on the black backsplash but that's an easy fix! As well as anything else you don't like about it! But the layout itself I think is just very pretty and functional! I think that wallpaper you put in that little hallway would look gorgeous in your kitchen with these colors! I can't wait to see which direction you go! Good luck to you and have fun!

[@winternight8813]

I really think that the pink layout with the u shaped "galley" style kitchen is very nice and the idea of a mobile kitchen island like a table or a cart that can be movable is a good idea. I don't understand why no one is putting in just a plain archway to the dinning room and the same to the living room. Are the doors required because of some sort of architectural reason? Also why not have a large picture window from the kitchen to the dining room? Then you can see your gallery wall you already made. Separating spaces is great but the kitchen can get lonely if you are cut off from the rest of the house. I will enjoy every single video you make Ariel. I love your enthusiasm and your passionate relationship with color in your home. I am not so brave but I like to see you play with it so happily!

[@itscarolinemary]

They went super modern with the designs! I love the rust and green colours in the last one.. definitely add lots of windows for lighting & views! I think there’s an opportunity for some open shelving for mugs and plates, it opens up the space a bit more. You could also find some eclectic tile as a backsplash, it would look really nice & give a vintage feel. You can also find kitchen islands on wheels and that would work out in this space!

[@bethbcrafts]

Love this! I think I really need to do the same thing for when I do my kitchen reno. It seems like it gave you a lot to think about and consider. I plan on doing butcher block countertops - you have to care for them a bit more, but also if you bang them up a bit, you can refinish them. And the "don't put anything wet on the wood countertops" experience is only bc the guy probably didn't want to re-oil them. I will never understand marble countertops - especially WHITE MARBLE. If you want that to last and not get stained, you'll have to have a plastic film put on top. I'm glad you're thinking of tiling a bit - be sure to tile by the stove/sink because there's a lot of splatter from those areas and tile is much easier to wipe down than drywall/paint.

[@bethbcrafts]

If you're not already following her, check out XO Macenna to see what building cabinetry would entail. It's.... a lot. BUT she has shared that building the boxes for the cabinets she'd do again for sure - but maybe you could order the cabinet fronts to help make that bit easier. Fitting the cabinet fronts and installing the hardware etc is a lot of very detailed work.

[@kaybee7860]

if it’s just you in the kitchen, the island would fit fine, but having multiple people in the kitchen would be too cramped i think. Like you couldn’t walk around someone standing by the island. i’m so excited to see what you do with it!!

[@maudhaugland5822]

Love this! I think the third one makes the kitchen look so much bigger and uses the space so much better than the first two in my (unexperienced) opinion. Counter space is so important. I do like the appley green you suggested!

[@michellementor6947]

Please don't be afraid of wood countertops!! I have butcher block counters and it was the best decision I ever made, even though I was so scared I would regret it! Almost 5 yrs in and zero regrets! There are so many ways to finish them to make them waterproof but I just kept it natural and oil when needed. It is so satisfying to oil them! I am also not very neat and tidy, and I spill alllll the time. I have yet to leave a mark that needed sanding. The vibe they add is like no other. They are warm and inviting, timeless and go with every style or colour. I won't need to change them if I wanna paint or change things up. Please look into them, I truly think they would work so well with the rest of your lovely home!