EXTREME KITCHEN RENOVATION EP 5 | Designing Our Custom Cabinetry

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As we were tackling demo, structural changes, window restoration and door design over the last 2 months we were also working behind the scenes on the largest part of our kitchen renovation… the cabinetry. But what started as my dream cabinetry design for the space might be impossible to build.
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❥ XO, MaCenna
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[@owenwitherell9969]

When your contractor seems genuinely excited about putting together your kitchen!👍👍

[@sandinewton1896]

I love the communication between you and the builders, there seems to be such understanding between you!

[@patroberts1111]

I think it's a mutual respect because she's so knowledgable. She's impressed them because of her skills.

[@loiskelso7522]

She knows

[@UnDiaALaVezEly]

I agree I love the communication it makes the process so much smoother I love it ❤

[@mschenandlerbong8539]

I collect videos to go into "watch later" that I can watch through the day when I have time, but these ones never make it. Must watch instantly.

[@susangooden1055]

Me too! I’ll stop anything to watch these videos. Obsessed.

[@Lucinda_Jackson]

I watch most videos at 1.5 speed, but for MaCenna I slow it down to normal so I can savor it. 😊

[@LindaKayHolevas]

Same!!

[@Dingle1234]

Yes, I love the way Mackenna explains the process, without any 'airs', as if talking to equals. The tradesmen must find her pleasant to deal with. This baby will have to be put to sleep to the sounds or power tools.

[@mayavansuchwurthsoprano]

Same!

[@tdamron4185]

You really should consider making him a shirt that says "She Knows" 😝🤣🤣

[@Lucinda_Jackson]

😂

[@cynthiavan-dunem3169]

Love that 😂

[@emiliepilot3987]

Hey MaCenna, I’m a birth and postpartum doula (but I use to be an architect ha! Hence why I follow you). In one of your previous videos, you stated you wanted to get back to work pretty quickly… contrary to popular belief, I think women that love their work like you do and get back into it in some way or another during postpartum usually do well mentally… they get recharged from it… it is absolutely possible to thrive in postpartum but please please hire support, I know your mom will be there but trust me, if you want to get back into work, you might actually need even more support… a postpartum doula is an idea but there might be other types of supports too in your area. Or maybe somebody to do you video montage/edits? Don’t underestimate the first few months with a newborn. It is INTENSE. Childbirth classes can’t hurt either. It’s so much easier to heal physically and mentally from a birth that went well. Whatever you do, you do you, and know that a good doula will just support you in just that. Sending lots of love your way.

[@homeis8478]

Such a good advice Emilie!💕 they say 'it takes a village...' well, have it from the beginning!

[@Dingle1234]

Looking at the subject of this video, it seems the reno may go past deadline. At least the messy part is over, but you may want someone to make your meals and bring them to you in the baby's room. Actually, a little snack and tea center would probably be comforting.

[@MeeganMakes]

Amazing advice and suggestions. Especially from someone who KNOWS. I hope she reads this and applies it to her own experience.

[@hllymchll]

and for the love of everything good in this world, do pelvic floor physical therapy before and after birth. no one tells you that a twenty something year old can have pelvic organ prolapse. this embarrassing and lifelong issue is something I wouldn't wish on anyone. also yes. I'm 7 months postpartum with my second and just now feeling back to normal. with my first it took over a year to feel like myself again.

[@laurafisher6531]

Great advice. Just from the few nuggets I've picked up from videos it seems like Romeo's family is local to them and they already have pretty grown nieces in la, I think I remember macenna mentioned in a vid one of them is attending the fashion college she attended. Built in babysitters woohoo 😂 I think they are luckily surrounded by family, which is so helpful as new parents ❤

[@madolynway6612]

I like seeing the respect your contractor has for your knowledge and skills. The project seems to be going extremely well. I hope it continues in this vein!

[@marywest2896]

hope you have the whole crew over for a celebratory kitchen reveal when all the decor and everything is magazine ready.

[@Edu_Kate]

I had my contractors over for dinner when they were finished with the job. They were tickled. No client had ever treated them to a home cooked filet mignon dinner.

[@deasonica]

​@@Edu_Kate love it!! 😂

[@salmanatour6532]

Those clips with your contractor are absolute gold, i feel like you formed a great friendship with one another based off of the love of kitchens, it's super wholesome to watch ❤

[@JL11775]

You must be their perfect client! You’re sooo prepared! Good on you, MaCenna! Have a great week! 😊

[@corricatt]

she's a contractors worst nightmare!

[@maryasimakopoulos4773]

Your contractor seems like such a genuine person!

[@corricatt]

he wants to get paid

[@shannonsolomon8491]

I love that your contractor is just as excited as you are and that he respects you and your knowledge.

[@marthagalvis7251]

Your contractor has all the patience in the world!

[@corricatt]

$$$$ it's all about cash

[@icequeen2471]

You know!!! I know your contractor adores how prepared you always are!! Happy Mommy’s Day, MaCenna…..to you, your mom, and your followers! 💞

[@NoYesJess]

I'm starting wonder if baby boy is here?! It's been 6 days since u posted here and 8 since you posted on your vlogs!!!! Eeeek so excited!!!!🙊😁💙👨‍👩‍👦

[@cinder8290]

Your walnut cabinets will be both unique and beautiful. I love that you don’t necessarily follow trends. Your kitchen will be timeless.

[@laurenkrepp]

I love seeing your contractor and the respect that he has for you, as a woman that worked in the construction industry for a long time this is means a lot. Love your work Mega Builders!!!!

[@HnitrZaso]

I realized how unprepared I was after watching MacCenna Vlogs after just updating a portion of my kitchen. We should all use this as a lesson plan.

[@janetbof4]

I’m imagining three scenarios. MaCenna is enjoying her time with her mom or baby has arrived or both. Well we know she’s enjoying her mom no matter. It’s strange when I don’t know you MaCenna but I have thought about you every day and I think I can speak for all, this is your time, enjoy enjoy. We will all be here at your return no matter when that may be. 💚

[@sallygreiner5724]

I think you are the only person who could design this kitchen with the different little rooms, the various slopes of the ceilings. I can see that the workman like to work with you because of the knowledge you gained in design, but also the knowledge you gained by building your own kitchen in the cottage. You aren't asking them to do anything that you haven’t done yourself. I can't wait to see the kitchen finished and the safe delivery of your son.

[@susangooden1055]

There is literally no one like you on the planet. You rock! Happy Mother’s Day to be!

[@lizziegreen6532]

I’m just so proud of you and how you handle this renovation. As a woman who’s embarking on a similar journey, it’s inspiring for me to see a woman so intelligently speaking about what she wants in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Your contractors seem so understanding and excited honestly to make it come alive. As you’ve said in your podcast, not all construction guys are like that. Way to go MaCenna!

[@eileenkillen1481]

The contractor is a gem, a real gem, I can tell he is a man of integrity and decency. You struck gold with him Mcenna. Loving these kitchen remodel videos. Blessings for a safe delivery of baby boy. ❤🙏🇮🇪

[@kalmakoff99]

How about a little cubby to keep a custom step in to be able to access high cabinets? ❤

[@hahna77]

Yes! I saw the ladder in one of the inspo pics & thought of that.

[@brit331]

God your contractor is AMAZING. I love how thorough he is with explaining things to you and knowing you want to be involved in every step.

[@donna19_]

Your contractor is amazing!

[@jeannegrumbles7595]

On the taller cabinet doors be sure and use 3 door hinges, 2 will not be enough and 3 hinges make them lots sturdier.

[@melodyfisher1512]

You thought of everything! I love the extra counter space to use as a buffet for guests! Good call. It’s going to be beautiful….sooooon!❤

[@rosasdeliz6202]

WHERE ARE YOU,HAS THE BABY BEEN BORN, I AM SO EXITED! ❤

[@elzacreatif7511]

It is coming out beautifully! Also, I love that tiny Kinsley and her big personality made a point of being part of the decision-making.

[@jacquelinesavoie9749]

I miss Kinsley content so much! I'm excited for baby boy but hope Kinsley regains her previous position like a "cameo star". 💖🤣💖

[@sueeparra7454]

How exciting!! Your contractor is freaking amazing!!!!

[@brendamac4014]

I love that your contractors are respectful to you and your ideas. They really seem professional and they take pride in their work. I wish I could find someone in my area with those qualities. I’m loving your design and style of your new kitchen. It’s going to be amazing and beautiful. Best to you, baby and Romeo. Time is flying and baby boy will be here soon. So much love and excitement for you all. ☺️❤️👏🏻🙏🏼

[@remade_bymarti]

This contractor seems so easy to get along with and super communicative!

[@hazelmeldrum5860]

I recently updated a part of my kitchen and watching MacCenna Vlogs I realised how underprepared I was., This should be a lesson plan for all of us

[@kmrolland67]

Why can't I find a contractor like yours? He listens and gives you insight. Ofcourse I am never as prepared as you. Great video! Happy Mother's day!!

[@gemmapetersen4027]

If you are in upstate NY look up Petersen Cor Associates. :)

[@RickieBeth]

Skipping the spice pullouts is a good call with a baby on the way - in a year or so, you'll have a little gremlin who would delight at removing the spices from that pullout one by one, sixty times a day. A drawer is a much better call! :D

[@deannajohnson5698]

This contractor is precious ❤️ I love when you work with people who really want to bring your vision to life!

[@ChristineCouncil]

Your creative energy and excitement when you design is so much fun to watch! Happy Mothers Day!

[@AllenZee]

it's so amazing that you can find genuine contractors. Everyone else has nightmares and law suits. LoL Thank you for sharing. This gives the world some hope.

[@kathysultzbaugh3858]

I love the walnut cabinets. I love that he knows you know. I love. How you completely transformed the space. I love that your baby boy is almost here. ❤

[@lindaga820]

I like that second design option for the front wall that gives you that counter space. This process is really exciting, can't wait to see the final product !!!

[@BThirstyPretzel]

I bet these contractors love you because you know so much and it makes talking to you easier. Also you are so appreciative of their work which must be nice for them.

[@smilesam]

The chemistry between you and your contractor is amazing! We already love you, but this contractor is so understanding and respectful and helpful. Yall have a great professional dynamic. idk what's next after the kitchen, and this house. But I could easily imagine yall renovating tons of houses together. HGTV is missing out. Yall making magic.

[@carolineorton3469]

Happy Mother's Day to be! Your glass cabinets would look more "centered" under your beams on the front wall if you extend the height of just one of your shorter glass cabinets to the height of the longer ones. Or slope down your cabinets on the front wall left to match the right (Ie. make a triangle template for left to mirrow right as much as possible?).

[@annie5593]

I feel like your contractor is so excited to show you the millwork bc of how much you truly appreciate the craftsmanship and what they do. You show them so much respect and you’re so educated im sure you’re a dream client!

[@etherealluminosity8610]

i love your contractor, he seems like such a gem!! ✨🫶🏻

[@arendtucute]

Happy Mother’s Day to be MaCenna!! 😘

[@marycolmery1508]

MaCenna, where are you ?

[@alexisn.k.789]

I was cracking up at the "SHE KNOWS" lol I just know they want to hire you!!!

[@lynnconroy8]

That contractor is amazing.

[@katrinarefior700]

Man, I really like your contractor. Very good. I'm excited to see this whole kitchen come together!!!

[@zesarai]

Super interesting to follow the process with the kitchen cabinets! I love how custom they are! 😍 The energy between you and the contractor is amazing! 🥳

[@mirellayosselin4]

I feel like you and your contractor could create some magic together! You seem to work well with each other!

[@ucsbalum73]

Only you could absolutely love the cabinet designing. I would need a paper bag to breathe into but you come alive and are in your element. The cabinetry is looking fantastic. Well done again. I’m sure the cabinetmaker is enjoying working with you as your experience and research makes their job easier. Can’t wait to see the final reveal. Just do not have the baby early lol !

[@diydarlings]

I have been refreshing your page since last week for a new video. Didn't think I'd be this obsessed with your kitchen renovation since my previous obsession was the Texas cottage.

[@joannejenkins7379]

So exciting, I love the respect they show you, recognizing your skill as a designer and builder.

[@crystalleigh6295]

What a gem of a contractor you have! Your design is incredible. I especially appreciate how you’re utilizing every inch of space to your advantage. Never have I ever been anticipating a kitchen reveal this fervently.

[@Elyyy310]

MaCenna! I am so happy for you! I discovered your videos in 2020 when you bought the cottage! You might be the first youtuber I have stuck with, consistently, for so long . Your positivity, creativity, and passion for design are truly such an inspiration. My husband and I are currently remodeling our home, by adding a bath and remodeling the existing bath. I relate to you so much in that I get so giddy and happy to design the layout and pick out each detail. I love that I finally get to watch your videos not only for entertainment but also to learn with you through the remodel.

[@Melodie1960]

You can put some gorgeous decorative baskets above the cabinets and decorations up there :) I don't know why I cared so much but I am happy to know you are bringing down the cabinets and putting crown moulding versus built-in fake panels scribed to the angle of the ceiling. It will look a lot lighter visually. Your kitchen will be gorgeous !

[@mikkileon6380]

You make me proud to be a woman and I wish I had known your channels when I was young. I would’ve grown to be a very different woman I think. Instead of barefoot pregnant in the kitchen and not allowed friends I could’ve done something I could’ve had a life, but here it is. I’m alone on Mother’s Day even though my whole life has been having children. I’m never good enough in their eyes. Thank you for showing men women, boys, girls, young old some of the amazing things women can do and grow.❣️❣️❣️

[@user-pm4xk5nl4s]

Don't down yourself. Every mother is amazing. Buy yourself some flowers and go out to eat. Enjoy Mother's Day. It's never too late to try new things. Much love 💘 Happy Mother's Day to you and all of the mother's out there. Love the progress on your kitchen and home. Can't wait for the arrival of your son.

[@jojotongol]

ONE OF MY FAVORITE CONTENT VLOGGER. ❤ i click as fast as i could ! greetings from the Philippines🇵🇭 Happy Mother's Day! 🥰

[@Britbabe53]

You really did well finding this team, they don't seem to cut corners and they take on all the feedback.

[@emiliepilot3987]

Crossing fingers and toes that everything is ok for you and your baby MaCenna! Sending good vibes you way. 🌷

[@emiliepilot3987]

Ps: This is not to add any pressure to post. Take care ❤️

[@janakirchnerova3544]

You know I was nodding and confirming LOUD when you explained every single decision like Im standing in front of you. I was like „oh yeah, that makes sense, toootally agree and uhmuhm, crownmolding is absolutely our style!“ Thanks for the chat just between you and I, love the progress. 😅

[@Kujawa_Powa]

Watch your baby boy become a chef cus he’s already spent so much time in the kitchen 🤍🤍

[@aballicristi]

Happy Mother’s Day to my favorite KZbinr, candle designer, and busy busy bee! Hope you are enjoying today. Thanks for the video!

[@chicky6three]

I can't be the only one that is baffled by the uppers, especially the one on the right. It will open into the glass, for starters, it also throws off the symmetry and balance entirely.

[@veewooshi9882]

Your contractor is awesome!!!!❤❤❤

[@desertcole4213]

Happy Mother’s Day MaCenna ❤

[@noureddinehaouati6093]

If you ever considered to have guests in your podcast please invite your contractor, he seems like a really good person, you can invite him in an episode about " working with contractors", sounds fun

[@luckyarchery]

Your contractor and the building team seem like great people to work with!

[@amaiaamaiaa]

imo, panelling up to the ceiling above the cabinets will give a more custom, expensive, built in look. I’d choose that over crown moulding any day. Having empty space above the cabinets makes them just look like prefab boxes you slapped crown moulding on, not to mention the dust and grease trap they become. I think custom floor to ceiling adds way more value to the kitchen than crown.

[@ginistewart9636]

Wouldn't it be great if there were more contractors like him??? IMPRESSIVE!

[@abbyehahn]

Happy Mother’s Day MaCenna!! Your fur baby and little boy are so lucky to have you 💐

[@myrtlesmith624]

You are so hands-on with your contractors, which is so good 👍🏿

[@heidil.4651]

STOP EVERYTHING!!!! Macenna posted!!!! 3,2,1…..let’s do this!!!! ❤️

[@lfc286]

You’ve chosen a great contractor. Makes everything enjoyable not stressful. Can’t wait to see the finished kitchen. ❤

[@CaryannCathlene]

You know you’re a fan when your relaxing Mother’s Day activity is watching a MaCenna video while your babies nap. 🤍

[@robinwoods9961]

I loved this episode I learned a lot from this. Your kitchen is going to be to gorgeous to cook in. I'm so excited for you and Romeo. I'm excited to see it myself. I love walnut I have a lot of it in my house and the crown molding is a must.

[@xmasbaby2574]

I wish I could use these guys for my kitchen make over here in NorCal! I love how he takes the time and works with you and your wants/needs/etc. Your vision is coming to life! I also love how he let you use the machine and cut into the wood. Can't wait to see it completed.

[@brendajones4915]

Hope that all is well for MaCenna and family. Your posts are noticeably absent, but it's totally understandable !!! So excited for the updates on the baby and the kitchen!!!

[@debbiedelahuerta3814]

Happy Mother’s Day sweet girl. It all looks Amazing. Love how your carpenter respects you ❤❤❤❤

[@cathyturner4064]

Happy Mothers Day MaCenna! Great episode as usual. Have you thought about a pull out dog bowl caddy in one of you toe kicks in the kitchen?

[@katiebrown7617]

I love the genuine respect you and your contractor share with one another. Everything is coming along beautifully.

[@anjabrunner5100]

Wirklich großartig schon alles geworden, ich liebe den französischen Stil, ich habe bei mir zuhause schon soviele umgestalten 😂Grüße from Germany ❤

[@annie5593]

My favorite channel on KZbin. Happy mother’s day!!💐

[@alisondoughty2194]

Wonderful vlog.Its at the Real stage now.Never seen a carpenter as pleased as the owner about the build.🎉😄🏰

[@MsCharlyD]

You just made mine and my mom's day! ❤❤❤ congrats on your first mother's day!

[@CK1000ism]

We chose walnut cabinets in our home--almost 18 years ago. If I was rebuilding the kitchen today, I would chose the same cabinets. It is such a lovely wood that feels as close to classic as you can get.

[@msvinceymontanarello4514]

I thought it was great that they were able to show you the cabinets & you could go over what you want and changes to be made.

[@krisk6256]

The extra counter space is a good flex space for whatever it needs to be in any given situation! Good call!

[@SuiorAnida]

The walnut cabinets are beautiful. He knowing you know, that's something I adore. I cherish. How you changed the room entirely. Your baby boy is almost here, which I adore.

[@vanessapat17]

Hope everything is well! Please take your time if you are need of it!

[@juemckool]

Congratulations on the forthcoming birth of your new kitchen ❤😂

[@rebeccamaracle2878]

No MaCenna posts for a while. I hope everything's okay! Maybe baby boy couldn't wait to see the new kitchen?

[@diegosierra16]

I love this content as an interior designer student myself I admire all the processes you are going through 😮 thank you so much for sharing, it motivates me and makes me love even more my career ❤❤🎉

[@madison8273]

one of my favorite things ab Macenna is that each episode is from the very beginning of each step & she basically waits until the very last episode to do the reveal of it all installed💜💜

[@erikalouwrens3992]

You must be the most delightful customer for your kitchen contractors... you are knowledgeable, confident and so well-informed!

[@treeefrog]

Loved seeing the cabinet foot design progression, and your final design is so beautiful and perfect

[@ems0up]

Just 50k more to a million MaCenna!!!! LOVING this series, can't wait to see the end results!!!

[@TheBeccaFashionVlogs]

Fully obsessed with Macenna's work - she really translates ideas to execution like no other and what's better is she explains it so well! I've purchased and regularly use countless power tools that watching her videos gave me the confidence to try. One of my life dreams would be working on a project with Macenna, or even just being a fly on the wall as she works❤