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.

[@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!

[@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! :)

[@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?

[@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!

[@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

[@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 👌

[@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!

[@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!

[@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

[@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!

[@douglasyong6939]

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

[@ArshamMo]

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

[@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!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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...

[@KartickePant]

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

[@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. 😉

[@Kliban1234]

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

[@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!

[@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 :)

[@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.

[@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!

[@HockeyPurist]

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

[@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

[@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!

[@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.

[@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.

[@johnkim1043]

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

[@HangingGarden606]

The most satisfying watch I've had in awhile.

[@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.

[@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...!

[@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

[@sviataslaubrezouski503]

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

[@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.

[@Simphome]

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

[@30by40]

Much appreciated!

[@davidkonevky7372]

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

[@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!

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@imadasmone8915]

One of the most anticipated videos of the year 😁

[@30by40]

\m/

[@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!

[@Meilat1890]

Best video on DIY I've ever seen.

[@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!

[@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!

[@MrBINGEBOY]

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

[@kharrell8356]

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

[@irinacrearina6307]

Amazing big work you did. Thank you. Incredibly interesting

[@Maninderjit18]

In my list of top ten favorite KZbin channels.

[@30by40]

\m/ thanks!

[@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!

[@biancakiss748]

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

[@30by40]

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

[@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!.

[@back2basics597]

If you do it yourself, then it's DIY and it doesn't matter what tools or how many of them you use. Unfortunately many KZbin content creators are dishonest about their work.

[@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!

[@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...

[@thaOFK]

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

[@d.michaelramirez6833]

Absolutely love the design, it's amazing. Each element is so well thought out and compliments each other. However, as a wood worker, please please please watch a couple table saw safety videos on kickback. It looks like you have a setup for a left hand? The guard is usually on the right hand side. But I noticed when you are cutting you are applying pressure towards the blade causing a pinch. I just don't want to see you get hurt. I read through a lot of the comments and didn't see it mentioned so I thought I would. But definitely a new subscriber.

[@30by40]

appreciate the kind words + welcome to the channel...my hands + fingers thank you!

[@cheng1991]

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

[@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

[@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!

[@andrewagarcia]

Man, I love your videos bro.

[@prestongeorge9469]

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

[@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

[@LenaSaharov]

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

[@30by40]

Thanks, Elena...cheers...

[@blzk12]

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

[@scottag0]

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

[@maryjudithoblena3433]

This video is very inspiring for me as a junior architect aspiring to become licensed soon. Thank you so much 🤍🤍

[@billvojtech5686]

The one thing I regret most about my kitchen renovation is putting in a soap dispenser. Having it back by the faucet it's awkwardly placed and the model that came with the faucet needs an unusual amount of force to pump. Also, I found I like to have a bottle of dish soap on the counter to squirt into pots, etc. With a dispenser built into the counter, you have to bring the pot to the soap. I'd rather bring the soap to the pot. I'll never install another one. Get a sleek, modern looking squeeze bottle.

[@troillandford7679]

Yes I was thinking of the same thing. I wonder if a hose soap dispenser exists

[@ascoria980]

I keep a spray bottle with soap+water in the cabinet below my sink. you can store it easily, and you can spray the soap concentration you want evenly on all the dishes while also saving water.

[@TheArtificiallyIntelligent]

I agree, although I use mine for hand soap and have a bottle of dish soap, which both work great.

[@sofiebribiesca6678]

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

[@daleparks6978]

I love the minimalist design, so far removed from the big box alternatives

[@MadMaxFuryRose]

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

[@30by40]

cheers...appreciate that!

[@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!

[@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...

[@chrisnovelli-n3architecture]

That come out great, nice work Eric

[@Ninjump]

To be fair to wood - those countertops probably could have used a better finish like Waterlox or something very penetrating, as well as a custom cut gasket up where the sink contacts the underside :)

[@SableSunsets]

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

[@30by40]

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

[@PARoth2011]

I appreciate the details and beauty. Well done! Subscribed

[@AlexdaCunha]

I regret also my purchase regarding the faucet... should have chosen Grohe or Hansgrohe. Those are solid choices as long as you find a design that pleases you.

[@javierbalam3997]

Man this is pure art

[@30by40]

cheers...appreciate that!

[@alexanderclaylavin]

You always make my day with a new video

[@30by40]

\m/

[@ronniealex5523]

An amazing job brilliantly executed

[@timothy-holt]

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

[@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.

[@binusha]

Beautiful work Eric 🙌🏽

[@jennifergorman7723]

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

[@WM-eg4gh]

looking at the counter top, normally they have some protective lining to prevent the spread of water as a layer. not sure what they are called but nevertheless might be worth adding, but noticed you added a stone countertop already

[@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? 🙏

[@christophermoody1448]

That was so worth the wait. Thanks for sharing!

[@bebeeru3066]

This is so sleek and modern, good job!

[@adrianrosario6457]

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

[@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

[@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.

[@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. ;)

[@mohamedmekawi6342]

Amazing work. Enjoy mate 🙏🤗

[@mrbenburns]

Absolutely fantastic.

[@30by40]

Thank you, Ben...humbled to see you in the comments! I so admire you + your work at the Futur...cheers...