Little Italian House KITCHEN RENOVATION! Revealing the Plans!
Start speaking a new language in 3 weeks with Babbel 🎉 Get 60% OFF your subscription during their Black Friday sale Here ➡️ go.babbel.com/t?bsc=1200m60-y...
View the kitchen plans here: drive.google.com/drive/folder...
Email me at hello@juliemontagu.com
My favourite online one-of-a-kind antique and unique shops are:
www.etsy.com
www.selency.co.uk
www.ilpiccoloscrigno.it
🌟 Support the creation of "American Viscountess" and help us maintain our top-notch Historic House content by becoming a Patron at / americanviscountess ! 🏰
Here, you'll enjoy early and ad-free access to all our vlogs and Historic House episodes, along with exclusive behind-the-scenes videos, American Viscountess merchandise, and more! Your support is what fuels these vital Historic House episodes. 🎥
🏡 As our guest, you're invited to indulge in a 5-night stay at Mapperton! Treat yourself to an unforgettable experience at one of England's grand estates. Discover more details at www.grandhistorictours.com.
If you're passionate about castles, manors, and stately homes, stay in the loop with the latest updates through my bi-monthly American Viscountess newsletter at julie-montagu-ltd.ck.page/9ab.... 📬
Join the UK's most extraordinary membership scheme and play a part in preserving Britain's independent heritage. International membership is available too! Visit www.historichouses.org/intern... and use code AVTV05 to enjoy a £5 discount. 🏡🌍
For an exclusive behind-the-scenes look, follow me on Instagram at / juliemontagu and / americanviscountess . 📷
And don't forget to check out our sister channel to experience what it's truly like living in a historic house in the 21st century: / mappertonlive . Subscribe for a unique perspective! 🏡🕰️📺
Start speaking a new language in 3 weeks with Babbel 🎉 Get 60% OFF your subscription during their Black Friday sale Here ➡️ go.babbel.com/t?bsc=1200m60-youtube-americanviscountess-nov-2023&btp=default&KZhead&Influencer..americanviscountess..USA..KZhead
Babbel do not appear to do modern Greek, which is what I’d choose.
Luke was repeating what I was thinking about the stone. Whole walls: good. Little shapes: strange. I think once you fix the walls a clearer vision will start to come show itself really.
Julie, I agree with the retired designer about the heated tile floor. Functional storage is a must. Unless you plan to display every kitchen small appliance (coffee maker, toaster oven, air fryer, mixer, microwave, instapot, etc.) you need an "appliance garage" to store everything out of the way YET accessible to get the appliance out, use it (electrical outlets!) and put it away. And not on a bottom/floor shelf (think about hefting that 35-pound KitchenAid mixer up and onto the counter!!!!!). You need more electrical outlets/USB ports for appliances and charging stations. More lighting besides that central chandelier. Where are you putting all the big pots and pans (Italians like to cook for family!!). Your plans have a lot of cute storage but could be more practical. Luke is correct; cover the exposed stone/brick areas and keep only the upper window and doorway stone. Those look authentic. That cubby hole would make a great place to display cookbooks (as another commenter has stated). Whatever doesn't work in your kitchen back home in England (layout, electrical, lighting, storage, etc.) probably won't work here either.
Fabulous ideas from everyone. Just my 2 cents worth…..use drawers under counter….not cupboards. So much neater and you can find everything at the back. Love seeing how this develops. You’re doing a terrific job!
DEFINITELY drawers instead of cabinets.
Absolutely, use big drawers on the bottom rather than cupboards it makes it so much easier and efficent to get items.
Yes...Deep drawers instead of cabinets with doors or open shelves. It's a great place to store pots and pans instead of standing on your head looking for a pan and having to constantly bend. Did this in our new kitchen in our house built in 1790 in Maine. Love them.
Julie, make sure you put a cap on the pipes you cut down. Rainwater will gather inside and start to rust the pipe. The outside might be painted to prevent rust, but I doubt the inside of the pipe is protected.
Your absolutely right. Good catch.
I had the same exact thought
I was going to say the same. I would of left the poles. It would of been a great place to hang festoon lights.
You’re doing great! Love your plans. I 100% agree with Luke about those weirdly shaped stone features in the kitchen. Terribly Unattractive. Either open up the entire wall to stones or plaster them over. Also I think you’ll regret a lot of under counter open shelves… from experience. Just looks cluttered and you’ll end up skirting it in frustration. Better to have unobtrusive drawers - not cabinets underneath…. Easier to access. The materials will keep it rustic. If you want open shelving, do it above the counter - just a little - very dusty. Finally, definitely opt for under-floor heating if you’re replacing the tile anyway. You’ll never regret it. Not only will it be warm, but it will lessen the damp and resulting mold from the stone house.
drawers in the kitchen , deep enough to hold pots and pans are a must... display a few choice copper pots for decor, a cluttered kitchen, taking up all the counter space, is nerve racking!!!! could you possibly scoot the eating table a bit farther away from the stove and prep counters.. looks a bit tight. a buffet , rather than a sofa would be more effective than a sofa in the eating area!!!! a buffet could serve many purposes, drinks , food buffet, desserts... i love watching you in action..annetta
I totally agree!
Build a banquette in the corner for the dining table. Have one side with chairs so you can expand it out. Then add a kitchen island for more prep space and have the seating at the other end under the window.
So agree with Luke on the walls!! Can't wait to see the results 👍❤
Agree! Those weird shapes must go! I like the idea of exposing the entire wall!
Totally. Spots of artificially ‘uncovered’ stone or brick see affected to me.
Same here on the wall exposed all the way or at least squared not all these weird shapes. Don’t understand why they do those.
Hi Julie and Luke ! .... I am a Kitchen Designer at a Lumber Company in Mashpee MA(Very close Sandwich MA). Jute Runner is perfect for the stairs! .... add a handrail... just in case. If you find a stone sink , get a stainless steel Basin Rack -for the bottom of the sink...so the dishes don't break on day one!! LOL ...Start to look at appliances. Put the dishwasher on one side of the sink, maybe do an 18" wide double trash bucket on the other side of the sink..... (Scrape, rinse.. load the dishwasher). Maybe a tall full height door base cabinet for trays and cutting boards. Make sure your refrigerator door(s) can open fully, so the crisper drawers can be removed to be cleaned. Also ... maybe a drawer microwave in a base cabinet? .....popular Italian Brands for appliances are "Bertazzoni" ALSO, since you are in Italy .... My favorite counter top stone is "Pietra Cardosa"(Mined nearby in Tuscany). Terracotta floor tile is perfect.... I agree with RNSWANN6324 ....maybe heated tile floor? Less is More!.... What about a high-top table and stools , since it's a big room . Maybe a whole feature wall with the rustic stone with recessed lighting to illuminate this.... Imperfections in the stone wall are the history and charm. Loose the weird geometric shapes. Also ...how about a chimney hood of some type over the range for an industrial look? Keep the overall look "transitional" (New meets old). .....Keep the room as bright as possible. Italy must have the most incredible Tile for a backsplash!! for the kitchen .... only certain things should be reclaimed. New is not bad always. Keep this project fun as possible!....stay well!!
Thank you! I have screen shot your comments- so helpful!
If I ever decided buying in Italy m first priority “ loosing those weird fish bone shape tiles and hardwood floors. It’s literally mess up my vision.
Hi Julie and Luke! You are very welcome! I have been in the kitchen business since 1997.Any idea how old the house is? What a great village you are in! Both of you have outstanding work ethics! Stay well all!@@AmericanViscountess
Couch, chair, lamps a bit odd for a kitchen. I would consider an island workspace with breakfast stools. I’d move the table closer to the back wall or nearer the big street window. You might consider framing the kitchen door arch with Italian tiles. I’d frame the little window with Italian tiles too.
As a retired designer, if you are changing the floor tile in the kitchen, I urge you to consider running an under tile heating element (not a DIY thing). You will be truly thankful if you do this. It will be well worth the cost! Who wants to run down to the kitchen on a chilly morning to face cold tile on your feet? It will also cut down on dampness and not work against your heating system in keeping the room at a comfortable temperature. That's my USA 2 cents worth. Also, DYI kitchens run into unexpected, expensive problems. May I suggest getting a contractor who specializes in kitchens.
Quick thought that you might want to tuck in what we call in the US a “mud room” in the kitchen area for shoes and jackets that people take off when coming through the back door.
I have an under the tile heating element under my bathroom floor. It's wonderful to step out of the shower onto a warm floor. 🙂
2 cents I love the picture from the magazine
But can the kitchen floor bear the weight of a stone sink? I think you won't like it. Stainless steel, double sink, deep and wide. Outside the house: wrought iron hooks with red gardinias in hanging baskets when you are home. They don't have to be real. Up high they can be plastic!
Stainless steel?Ugh. Either stone or cast iron with enamel. The floor will support it. Guaranteed.
I think it will be wonderful. Totally agree with filling in most of that exposed stone wall, I don't think anyone will miss it. And the part near the fridge does remind me if an Ugg boot. Bizarre 😅
😅
Ugg boot is exactly what I was going to comment! haha I don't think the stone wall sections will go with the new terracotta floor so probably better to cover most of it and there is exposed stone in other parts of the house
Yes, Boot the boot!
The beauty of jute or sisal stair runners - which I’ve had on my stairs for over 20 years - is that they are also slip resistant. And they look gorgeous of course.
Essential on a painted stair - v dangerous otherwise. She could've saved herself a bit of paint and effort by doing what folk usually do and just painted the edges that are seen.
@@sallyannc3176 I also painted all the stair surfaces before laying the jute as it ensures complete protection of the treads for years to come from inground dirt etc.
@@goldenineke there was already a sealed surface so painting the whole tread wasn't necessary. There will be uneven wear with one area being covered so it wasn't needed.
Hi Julie, you should consider anything waist height & under in the kitchen cabinetry that is a cupboard to replace it with draws as they are much more practical & you are able to reach at the back of them when pulled out. Angela from Adelaide Australia.
I do agree with that. Here in Adelaide we have a Mediterranean climate, and in the hills where I live it is very much like Tuscany, and lots of creepy crawlies. Drawers are definitely the way to go. Have clear fronts if you need to see what is there, but I would never have open shelving.❤😊
Do you mean "drawers"?
It's so exciting to see the kitchen get it's turn for renovation. I agree with Luke about filling in all the weird exposed brick shapes, except for the one over the stairs which match the stair riser's and keeping the little cement shelf. I also think all the cabinets should be underneath and install some beautiful wood open shelves to display pottery, cutting boards and other things. If the area under the counter's are open you'll just all the clutter that will accumulate underneath. Better to have closed cabinetry and add a pull out garbage drawer and a open slot for cookie sheets. The vintage cheese cabinet is too small for the wall it's on now. Loving the idea of the small couch with end tables and lamps. Imagine family sitting around while your cooking in the evening. It's going to be beautiful.
Put a coffee/tea station where the little phone nook is.
Absolutely love all the renovations of your Italian home! One suggestion for the kitchen ~ instead of the couch, add a bar - height cabinet for storage with a marble or stone top. It makes a great buffet for serving food and entertaining. You could then add 2 chairs with 1 small table by the window.
I would also say no couch. It would waste space. Chairs would work better.
I agree. Two chairs by the window would be better. A couch is too deep and too near the table. A sideboard/ buffet would work well.
Just a thought - instead of a sofa, install a leather banquet against the wall, and use it as seating for the table. Either way, I can’t wait to see the process and the results!
A comfy banquette is perfect, instead of a sofa. If there's room, also maybe a long skinny island with a ton of storage.
I also thought of this.
When it comes to building a new kitchen for myself, I prefer all drawers, even under the sink where the waste bin can sit. And I like to have zero upper wall cupboards so I can have a simple shelf for display and hang paintings above. The stairs look great.
I totally agree !
I think plastering over stone area will make kitchen look much larger and showcase all your appliances and design elements
Suggestions for the kitchen: in front of the large window in the kitchen, I would put a small cafe table/2 chairs, and instead of a couch against the large wall, add a long bench and move the large table/chairs in front of it to create a restaurant feel. The stairs with the jute runner look great!
Julie, I sent you an email with a pic.
I had my doubts when the stairs were painted black, but now, with the addition of the runner, I absolutely love them!
My biggest complaint throughout Europe is the lack of handrails on stairs. Especially nice to assist older visitors with knee issues as well as safety. Black iron rails would look nice. Congratulations, your Italian house is lovely!
I love how this little Italian home is coming together.
Best part of this video is how much fun it is to listen to you and Luke chatting and thinking things out! I liked all the plans you have made for the kitchen,especially what stone you plan to leave exposed. The carpet on the stairs looks wonderful and warms up the area so nicely. Great job Julie!
I agree with Luke about what stone and brick should and shouldn't be exposed. And when you were talking about putting the larder in front of the brick the thought occurred to me that the coolness of the brick would be great at keeping it cool inside. As far as the nook goes, I think you should put some cookbooks in there. What it reminds me of is there used to be a spot like that to put your phone for the house in, perhaps that's what it was.
I would not recommend that lower cabinets be open -- you will have an accumulation of dust that you might not expect! And just a caution about a concrete sink -- it might be very shallow so think well about how you want to use it. This is all very exciting!
Love the kitchen ideas. Definitely see about underfloor heating (if possible). Also, exposing the stone wall will look great and getting rid of those ugly bricks will look much nicer. Not a fan of the thick plaster wall with the exposed brick…any way of having a thinner coat of plaster on the wall?? For the stone sink make sure you seal it and a goose neck faucet would look lovely…can’t wait to see the evolution of your cucina! ❤
Worrying about cleaning stone sink,how hygienic would it be?
If you are having some open shelving to display pretty things I feel that having open cupboards too will just make the room look very messy. Not to mention that things that are exposed get very dusty. Also, I don’t think you want to have an industrial looking kitchen . I agree about covering up all the weird exposed stone. Keep a little, then you have room for some cool paintings and to hang some beautiful Italian platters or large plates. I have these hanging in my house and then take them down when I need them to serve at bigger dinners for family or friends. Doing your kitchen over is going to be so much fun ❤
Hi Julie, please keep that blueand white hanging bowl and wooden/metal item hanging on the wall. The big wall to be covered as you said is good. If there is a more space please consider to put there kitchen bed as in old age used to cooks sleep on or the sofa bed. 👍🍀🍀🍀😊
Ok, just a thought… instead of putting a couch against the kitchens back wall, why not put an attached (to the wall) buffet type seating bench there. The bench can have a lid that lifts for additional storage. Then, if you want, have a long narrow island for food prep. 🤷🏻♀️
I really enjoy watching your restoration of your Italian house.
You might also enjoy Kylie Flavell's channel as well. Fun to follow tto.
I think your decision to cover over the stone work is a good one it reminds me of a jigsaw puzzle with most of the pieces missing It will do nothing to enhance the terra cotta tiles. It is exciting project and I can’t wait to see the results. ❤️
Nice large kitchen. Before sight of the plans I thought excellent space for sofa and a chair, cosy. Cover the brick work up and keep/extend the lighter brick near the window. Having got a tiled kitchen floor definitely get under floor heating, so lovely in the winter and on those colder mornings. The nook could be used for your sound system,recipe books, microwave, coffee station, tv. The design is definitely based on traditional Italian layout. Can’t wait to see how it progresses.
Totally agree with Luke on the walls. Love that! The small built in nook should have some shelves for cookbooks or place to put your phones or something like that.
Julie so glad you got rid of the ugly poles on the terrace, the clothes horse will be more practical. I so agree with Luke to remove the weird stone shapes and just have plain white or stone walls in the kitchen. The best thing I have in my kitchen is a moveable work bench with underneath storage. It gives you so much more room for prep work and you can move it out the way when you don't need it. I love the rustic Italian look and you could add a few industrial looking pieces to change it up a bit. I can't wait to see what you do.
I’m in the process of watching so if this has already been mentioned, apologies. But, it would be pretty cool to have a wood burning small cooking “fireplace/oven”. I just think a flame in a kitchen just adds so much atmosphere. But, whatever you do , as usual, it will be really nice. Love your aesthetic.
I like Luke’s suggestions regarding the walls!
Julie - once you are completely finished with reservations, please continue to show Italian videos!!! Maybe take on another reno project or just show us life in the area.
A suggestion. A slim lower cabinet for your cookie sheets, muffin pans etc that you use for baking. I had one once and I loved it!
Pastries are so cheap, locally made, and readily available in Italy that there’s no need to bake
Since the partially exposed wall shows how thick the ledge is between exposed wall and the closed in . When you close in I would build in a spice cabinet.The little nook in kitchen that’s orginal will hold cook books. I like Luke’s Ideas . I love the under floor heating idea and look up Coffee Bars popular here in USA . I would make a coffee/Espresso/Hot coco/tea station with mini fridge undercounter fridge. I love mine keeps guest /family out of main cooking area of kitchen while getting their beverages.
Oh the terracotta. Having small tiles makes for grout lines that collect dirt. I suggest larger tiles for the floor?
Can't wait to see the plan evolve based on all the excellent comments here! I'd like to put in a suggestion for banquette setup under the window in lieu of the chair set up in the plan. I truly think this could be the most used seating in the kitchen or a spot to enjoy tea/coffee with the wonderful natural light from the window above. Also suggest either a buffet height storage unit or some kind of island with seating. Either setup would facilitate feeding a crowd while the island could allow people to hang out while cook/s are working. The island would also allow for more work space as the kitchen doesn't have much work space right now. Also suggest coffee bar set up away from the working area of the kitchen. I realise this is a vacation house but still think more working space is needed and more 'hanging out' space as the wonderful size of the room will make it the heart of the home. Good luck with planning!
Banquette is a great idea, just wondering about the large heater there? Could be removed with underfloor heating?
@@chavahbateli3355 Redirecting the heating shouldn't be too difficult or costly. My other concern is lack of working and serving space along with lighting. I can imagine a large island with stools and people hanging out and eating there while others cook while another group (or age group) could be hanging out at the banquette enjoying their conversation and drinks! Its such a large space that it should be possible to have multiple areas of congregation. I can't say I understand the sofa idea but I've seen in done but usually no matter how large the sofa is there are usually no more than 2 people sitting on it! Can't wait to see what is resolved.
I am thoroughly enjoying going through this voyage with you. What a wonderful home it is turning out to be. I'm almost 82 years old and love to cook, bake, etc. Some of my favorite things to make are breads and pastas. I don't do various pastas, although I could, but I just love egg noodles. Are you going to have a large baking area? I think you should always have a large flat work area in a kitchen so you can spread out. It's one of my most important ideas for a kitchen. I love wooden cabinets although I'm also open to just using plain shelves but not too many. Kitchens can get very greasy from all the cooking so I don't like for all my dishes to be exposed. A corner cabinet with a lazy susan is ideal for a garage solution for smaller appliances. And a big pantry is also a must for me. One of the things that used in the kitchen design in our last house was black appliances and it was stunning. It didn't show any fingerprints. I had a lovely black double sink, made out of swan stone that had one huge side for larger pots; that's an idea for you! We were living in WV at the time and so I had lots and lots of wooden utensils. I have a TV cooking show daughter and her husband, from Scotland, complete with the wonderful Scottish brogue, can come into my kitchen and find any piece of equipment available here for them to work with. If only I knew what I did with my little strawberry huller? I hope your end product fulfills your every dream and that you look forward to using the kitchen often. It's a great place for either a dinner for two or for a family of 12? Yes, it is! I adore what you've done so far and you have a marvelous, really large home. I was amazed at the size of it and that it included that large patio! How wonderful!
Thank you! and be sure to subscribe to my new Julie In Italy channel - it's free! of course! youtube.com/@julieinitaly?si=ITqw6d_8fqYHXe38
Hi Julie, I'm an Italian-Australian interior designer and building designer based in Australia. I love the stairs being painted black, and the jute runner is timeless. So far I like the majority of the design decisions you've made. The sitting room is very cosy. I agree with Luke regarding exposing the full wall of stone, and patching up the odd shapes. I also have some other ideas; Where the window is at the end of the room, I'd custom build a banquette there and a matching table which can leave you more room in the main part of the kitchen for an island. Also, the wall that the cheese safe is currently on could house built in pantry that would free up more space in the kitchen for storage, or you could make it a tea and coffee station/cocktail bar. It's a great space, and relatively large for Italy. You're lucky to be able to have many options with the layout. Good luck with the renos.
The drinks station is a great idea.
@@debbiewood7718 they are so handy, especially in a holiday home.
Love the sofa idea. Being Italian I envision people lingering in the space and relaxing after eating or just watching the cooks get meals ready Suggestion.. the painted tiles and too much open cabinetry seems so busy. My personal preference is a calm environment.
I agree with Luke regarding the stone features. Also like the suggestion of getting heating under your kitchen floor tiles. Like the set up and wishing you success in finding your sink and tiles. Looking forward to seeing the progress in the coming months 😍😘
If you do reveal that whole back wall, I think some quality LED strip or small puck lighting all along the ceiling and set back flush with the wall to illuminate it from above would look really nice! And create a accent/focal point for the back of the kitchen. Also, if you can find it and for a reasonable price, I would really recommend investing in an induction hob. They're just a better investment all around.
I totally agree with Like about the exposed stone walls. I've never been a fan of oddly shaped patches of lovely stone wall surrounded by unnecessarily thick plaster. Not at all rustic, and often badly done. Much better to just expose all the stone. The runner on the stairs is SO gorgeous. The color is very close to the wooden floors, but it's handmade texture is so inviting. I love that. And what used to be way too much black on the steps is now just the right amount to mimic the black railing, and lead your eye from floor to floor. Julie, I never should have doubted you! Well done!!
Julie you are a beautiful light.
Your California Montagu cousin checking in. The house looks wonderful! You've done a fantastic job. I love that kitchen and I can't wait to see the result. Bravo!
I agree with the person who talked about the banquette seating with a long table and an island for prep and perhaps barstools. While I realize the space is big enough, a couch and seating area in your kitchen really won’t get use. the way you have it set up now for example, if you had people that were over, while you were cooking, they would sit at the kitchen table. This is so they can be close to you and it’s more conducive to conversation. People don’t expect to lounge in the kitchen.
I'd cover ALL the walls to eliminate the contrived exposed bricks but I'd leave the original stone bits.
I would love to see more furniture pieces in the kitchen than traditional cabinetry. Wardrobes breakfronts YUMMY
Love your little Italian house ,you’ve made some great choices with your style of decor ,really suits the house x
Kitchen suggestions: easy to clean and dark terra cotta floors contrasting light / bright colored walls. Here's something new: build cabinets that are like sectional sofas. Cabinets that are on wheels and can be moved around would be nice. Open shelves as much as possible - avoid doors as much as possible.
My husband and I love how your little Italian home is coming together. You've been an inspiration to us as we look for our own home in Italy. We were actually in Fivizanno in Aug! We stayed at a lovely home in Piazza Guiseppe. Beautiful! So, regarding your plans, what are your motivations for putting a sofa in the kitchen? I understand most Italian kitchens have them, but why are you choosing to? I have admit, a sofa makes the room feel cramped and I find it bothersom. So, just wondering why you are choosing this. Thanks! Arrivederci!
A lot of people are suggesting a coffee station in this kitchen. Can I just point out that there’s one big coffee station in the Piazza, which is a 30 second walk away. Coffee costs €1 a cup in Italy. 🇮🇹
Can’t wait to see the finished kitchen !
Very exciting! Please take the advice about the under heating in your new kitchen floor. LOVE your artwork on the walls! It’s all coming along BEAUTIFULLY!
Hi Julie! 👋 For what it's worth..here are my thoughts. I think I'd expose both the end walls but fill in the large wall! I also think the magazine picture of the proposed kitchen is a little too pared back and almost indstrial. I'd keep a warm rustic timber but with better storage and dare i say..I'd keep some little curtains for certain areas. Nothing screams Italian country kitchen as much as those. It's not like you have a fire in their to make them grotty and dirty. I think the space will be too crowded with a massive sofa in there...clutters the walkway and makes that luxurious large space feel cramped. I'd put two chairs (if space allows) in the corner. I'd probably put a sideboard along that large back wall..(narrower than a proposed sofa) with artwork or open shelves above. If you're keeping a large kitchen table in there that is great seating and encourages conversation with the cook 😅! Sofas are great in kitchens but usually they're around an open fire. Anyhoo, loving the journey..thanks for sharing. 😊 P.s. The options are endless...you could do banquette seating and move a large table (maybe round ) towards the back wall and along to the corner where the free standing cheese cupboard is and maybe still have room for an island too. So exciting. X
Hey Julie, instead of having a sofa, why not invest in a high backed upholstered bench a la french resto, have that against big empty wall, move the table over, half seating is on bench, half on chairs. You can still add the side chair by the big window and side tables with lamps on either side of the bench. I love that you will be covering the walls...and also love the exposed rock u are leaving. Room for art, mirror, yet retaining some of the rustico. Cheers from Canada 🇨🇦
I totally agree - cover up those stone walls, they are not attractive. If you are going to put dark tiles on the floor, keep the walls light so the room doesn't feel dark. I love the stairs - well done.
2 Comments: - I never liked the look of those exposed stones much, especially the odd shaped ones. Just because somebody decided to spotlight these stones doesn't mean you have to live with them forever. - Remember what the house is for: a holiday home for a few people to stay a short time. There probably isn't much need for many cabinets in the kitchen or storage closets, as you're not storing clothes and equipment for an entire family to live year-round. If you're having lots of visitors and different people staying at the house, open shelving is often much easier so there isn't a lot of hunting for everything. How many kitchen gadgets, tablewear and pots/pans are you likely to have? If you keep the table set permanently, you have zero need for storage, in fact. If it's a home for children or students, include space for them, like a toy area or quiet study areas. Remember to use the ceiling in the kitchen, too, for hanging laundry or cookware, if you need more space.
Luke is spot on with his "wall" suggestions! Have pull out drawers below (not open cupboards, too messy looking and pull outs make it so much easier to access pots, etc.). Where you currently have the fromagiere, move it to that opposite wall, put in a cabinet for additional storage and the top can be a coffee/bar station, perhaps a set of shelves for mugs, some bar glasses to pull it together on the wall. Please no island! I love that table and having an appropriately scaled couch and chair will encourage true kitchen gathering to keep the cook company, taste test, an aperitif perhaps, and of course laughter and memory sharing! Can't wait to see how all of this turns out!
Others may have said this already - what came to mind in your layout is that in the U.S. we'd put an island where you have the table and a put a table where the sofa will go. That could be especially functional when your family is there to gather around.
Absolutely agree with Luke- get rid of the weird shaped exposed brick/stone areas, fill it all in. Such a silly trend and in bad taste... The stairs look fabulous, as do all the rooms you have finished renovating. So cozy and beautiful!
This is really exciting, Julie. Kitchens are such a big deal in general, and they must be especially so in Italy. Looking forward to seeing the plans.😀
How cute!! “Three olives!!”☺️
I am an architect and live in london I am happy to help you and meet with you to get a better sense of what you want to achieve. Looking at the drawings you showed yesterday and at the footage I believe there is a lot of potential to do something really nice :)
My thoughts echo some of the ideas already given: Rather than a sofa on the long right wall, better to have a banquette or window seat under the window as a cosy corner to drink morning coffee or read. Cookbooks in the chimney nook. A buffet/credenza or console on the long wall as an elegant side table and focal point for dining.
Mama Mia !!! You are living my dream !!! I love everything you and the workers have done.....AMO TUTTO !
Adding a fireplace in the kitchen would be wonderful in the winter and rough-hewn beams would look awesome :)
I agree with Luck on the walls
I would close all of the Kitchen walls and paint light yellow/candlelight white. I would keep the floor tile, change grout to a sanded grout. I would not put in upper kitchen cabinetry,, change the wooden storage wardrobe for a chest of drawers with a piece of clear glass on top. Place bar (bottles) on the surface of the dresser. I would like to see a wall with plates/plate holders, remove the plate near the doorway. I would add one of those lovely cutting board style table, with a large white mortar and pestle for chopping fresh herbs,,etc The red and white fabric could be recycled for bottle covers. I would add a comb microwave convection oven for your children. make certain you have faucet combined water sprayer for your large stone sink. I would built a box around the heat/cooling unit running the length of the wall, and the height of the window, ledge. :) just some thoughts.
Love the stair runner
I think the small indentation was the old telephone nook. The big wall needs a fireplace! Put herbs by the window 😊
I would never want to leave ❤
I love love love the stairs and excited about the kitchen! Been watching since day 1 ❤
If you can’t find reclaimed wall tiles, you could buy Pugin/ Encaustic Tile and stain them with tea ( 1 liter hot water 15-18 tea bags) paint on with a brush. The tikes look like they are 100 years old. Billy Petherick ( “The Pethericks”) demonstrated it in todays video. It turned out awesome.
I Absolutely agree in making the exposed stone walls go.. The kitchen will be wonderful following your taste. Can't wait to see it finished. Hope it won't take too long.
Hi Julie, we have a contract on a home in Northern Tuscany and I'm figuring out how to rework the garbage/recycling pails. Italy has 4 and though small..they are awkward and you might want to think of a creative way to hide them in the kitchen..it's quite a large space. Heating idea for under the new floors, brilliant. The couch in the kitchen is so traditional Italy, so if you feel you need another cozy sitting area, go for it..everyone is always in the kitchen! Another idea, since you can't put a wood fired oven in the living room, think about putting a pizza oven or fireplace for ambience and function! Can't wait to see what you do!
I wasn't sure about the black stairs but it looks so good!
I love Luke's idea, exposing the entire wall near the window. I quite agree the plaster areas Julie pointed out were poorly done. They would look so much better fully plastered. Love the floor choice for the kitchen. The entire kitchen with the wind sink was a jump off point will be nice. I was not in love with the tear sheet reference picture. I see light oak cabinets with a stone farm sink. Beautiful earth tones. Beautiful vintage looking gas stove, with a custom extractor made with wood and plaster. Keep in mind open base cabinets do collect dust and are high maintenance for up keep.
Hi Julie…. Love everything you’ve done so far… Good idea to cover most of the stone …looks kind of over the top…. Instead of placing another sofa in the kitchen why not move the dining table to the wall using a bench instead of the two chairs, would ad more dancing space to your kitchen 😊 Keep up your very catching wonderful spirit… Can’t wait to see the final results
I agree with Luke regarding covering up stone areas.
Island island island with a sink, makes for the most amazing way to use kitchen as a family space and timesaver during cooking
I agree with Luke that the stone wall cutouts are a strange look and that you should uncover the ones you decide to leave visible in floor-to-ceiling appropriately-sized sections or just plaster them up. I'm so relieved that you are renovating the kitchen so it remains rustic and in keeping with the age of the house! It would have been godawful to see it slickly modern, minimalist and COLD.
You are doing a beautiful job on your little Italian house Julie. Since you look right down into the kitchen from your living room, I think something of interest should go on the walk that is visible from the living room. I’m not sure about a sofa in a kitchen, but I love the idea of the little sitting area with a chair & small table. Maybe you could move the more narrow cheese cabinet against the wall to the left of the sitting area, and purchase a larger cabinet for the other wall. Good luck with everything, can’t wait to see the finished project!
I suggest a wooden plate rack on the wall. Instead of the open shelf near the sink. It is a lovely space saver. Instead of open shelves which just require dusting all the time.
In The USA we have cabinet doors which may have slide out shelves this is wonderful keeps everything organized and easy accessible Also drawers for flatware may also have double stack siding top to allow additional space in drawers And also soft close doors and drawers Check out the options Keep in mind … in kitchens with so many issues to consider A must is to Bring in “symmetry” in the cabinetry design it will calm down all of the factors in the space Add a warm rug in the seating area
Luke's comments of odd shapes in kitchen are the best. Only reason to keep weird exposed stone areas is to fill lulls in dinner conversations ...when people could speculate on what they see in the shapes like the 'boot'. 🤣😄
Better to have a larger stone area. Some buildings in parts of Italy have very old Roman stone work which was concrete and quick lime mixed with salt water which is insanely durable for centuries. Your stone wall may be more solid than you think.
Love the kitchen plans and I agree with Luke about the strangely shaped stone areas!
Oh! The living room is so cute! You finished it! Yay! Cozy and homey! Very nice! I do think the large exposed stone wall in the kitchen is very artistic in terms of texture, color, and expanse. It might be a painting! I like it very much! But, its not a useful space. You can't do anything with it! And you need storage in a kitchen. Recently I saw videos of terrible flooding in mountain towns in Italy with torrents running down streets and drowning all the cars. I also saw terrible landslides in Italy with whole blocks being swept away as half a mountainside came down from unusually heavy rains due to climate change. How high off the street is your kitchen and living room? Has your town had such floods? What about your particular location? How is your town situated? And your street and house? What is behind the town? What is under your house? Is there a little creek nearby that could flood and wash out your foundations or come up thru the floor and run out the door, as happened to me in India? Then you want to keep the furniture light so you can easily store it higher up when you aren't there, in case of flooding. Don't want to scare you, but its best to be proactive. "Be prepared"
I would move the the sink below the window, the move dishwasher next to sink. You could put narrow shelves on the wall adjacent to the sink. The next would be a regular cabinet and next cabinet drawers. This gives you more continuous work space and the window is not in an arbitrary position (symmetry). I would hang pots and pans near the stove. Love the idea of covering the stone wall gaps all over the house. To expose the stone an entire wall needs to be exposed (like the light stone wall in the kitchen.) Love the brick floor! Would love to see walnut cabinets in kitchen and Italian tile counter tops. I would also put in some cabinets above. They will reduce visual clutter. Love the stairs!! You make viewing fun!
Matt’s getting things done, pretty leaves and perfect geese. 👍🏼
So interesting. The design feels interesting. I would avoid the sofa and create an island since you really don’t have much counter space. I think you are very patient with your husband. Patience.
It is a very American trend to have a coffee bar .... just a thought. A stone sink would collect grease and debris as well as break dishes and make alot of noise, so while a beautiful thing, better for a laundry than a kitchen sink. Or use it solely as a place for plants , cookbooks, etc to sit in as a decorative element.
In addition to framing the arched doorway and little window with Italian tiles, you might also consider adding inlay tiles to the kitchen step risers (vertical part of steps). The small nook near the large street window can fit a nice wine rack to store your favorite Italian vino, or it can double to store olive oils.
Alot of the European homes that I have visited have mismatched cabinets. The wall cabinets are hung uneven and they use alot of furniture pieces as cabinets. Its a wonderful eclectic look.