As the daughter of a renovator, I hope people appreciate the value of those first two suggestions--intentional and quality baseboards and solid core doors. These are the things people notice subconsciously, when they aren't sure why they like things, and these are also things that speak to basic quality in huge ways. I'd rather see people selvedge and reuse solid core doors more often than go for the cheaper feeling hollow option. Quality Baseboards and doors really affect how your house will age too, so this goes beyond aesthetics. Baseboards and doors are heros of function, taking much use and abuse over time. Intentionality and quality products mean they can ,more often, be rejuvenated. Solid wood door leftovers can often be converted into other simple furniture and such too. My very functional basement sewing table is made from one. Not a decor tip--just a reminder that stuff made well can live many lives under numerous coats of paint.
The most important detail, in every home, is do away with clutter. It won't matter what your trim looks like, or if your switch plates are fancy, if you have any crap laying around. An organized room will always look good.
Good point, and I think clutter on the floor is worst. Although my home is practically never truly free of clutter (and I dont even know if I can fix that, its not my strongest side), I regularly do house shores like washing the kitchen bench and taking out garbage and occasional tidying. Maybe some extra tidying is good right before getting visitors. But I honestly think a too empty/boring room is worse than a too messy one, unless were talking about an absolutely extreme amount if mess like someone with a serious hoarding problem. Its not a guarantee it looks good just because its tidy. Also if I were considering (but not settled) moving together with someone, like if were dating, I would actually prefer the one who has a moderate amount of mess. If their home is too perfectly clean and tidy I think they would be exhausting to live with, because they (probably) need things tidy at all times. But they obviously shouldn't live in an indoor dumpster either. There goes a limit for how much mess I would accept, and hygiene is more important than tidiness.
Proudly looking around my circa 1914 historic home with its 6” baseboards, original solid core doors with original bronze hardware, and the two dozen light switches I upgraded by myself.
Yes! Our 1916 craftsman had been " updated" in the 60's. All the moulding had been removed and ceilings lowered. We restored it all over the years. We finished the cellar basement in to bedrooms and used hollow core doors for budget reasons. 35 years went by and we were able to replace them all with antique doors to match the upstairs. Easy to find and cheap. Got all vintage hardware on eBay. Feels really great to open and close those doors.
And I replaced all the switch plates w antique brass and black switches. Not expensive, but huge impact. But we've been in our house 46 years. Took time.
Hey Nick! This was interesting! I can’t remember if you’ve done a video on it, but maybe along these same lines follow up with a video such as “Items that Aren’t Worth Splurging On” or something like that… design areas that you can allocate less money to without it affecting everything.
It's pretty common here in Florida to have the master bedroom off the open concept living/dining/kitchen area. We changed all the doors from hollow to solid core a few months ago and it has been a game changer. We don't hear the kitchen appliances through the French doors anymore. We upgraded all the hardware, too. Now we feel like we're living in a European villa.
In my rentals I always changed the switch plates. Even at Home Depot you can find nicer ones in brass or nickel that don't cost a lot. Way better than the yellowing plastic. I just stuck the old plates in zip lock baggies with the screws and stuck them in the back of the closet to put them back when I moved out.
We put up heavy victorian brass ones in the old house, and changed all the boring interior door knobs for matching brass ones with large door plates and glass knobs and on a few, keyholes that locked with a skeleton key, to keep visiting little ones out of some rooms.
On the current house, we have mosaic switchplates, in blue in some rooms and a silvery gray and brown in others. In bathrooms, heavy porcelain, in the kitchen a seashell mosaic the color of sand. The house had an ugly plug-in for a landline that we covered up with a blank plate that was seashell mosaic and where the plug holes would be, an actual seashell covers the center. Just don't get those plain or beveled glass mirror ones. We put them upstairs in the old house, in the master bath and bedroom, and they didn't lie flush to the wall, and we were always catching our hands on their sharp corners. The hardware stores are great, but look up actual door and window hardware-only stores online. It's absolutely amazing how many designs there are out there.
This is one of your best videos, I say in my humble opinion. I am also a lover of moldings. You can do a lot with some moldings, a little glue and tack nails!!
Best quick & traditional idea for a higher baseboard was one I saw (on HGTV I think) : designer added half-round moulding about 2-3" above the existing baseboard, and painted it and the wall between with baseboard colour. Ingenious, AND no rip-out! (Ditto ceiling trim, but it was a high ceiling).
VINDICATION! I care about and either updated or want to update everything listed. People thought it was weird that I 1) cared about baseboard and 2) went with 5.5 inches even though I only have 8-ft ceilings.
I have this weird habit of watching the clock behind Nick periodically throughout the video to see how long it took to create this video and compare it to the final video. I appreciate the editing it takes. Am I the only one? Ok then, I'm weird
I'm yet to figure it out. It always seems to start at the same time. Then it moves forward then moves backwards. I know it's a working clock because he's talked about it before. But you're not weird. I'm right there with you.
Wow this all seems so obvious but I had never really thought about how these small details can have such an impact! Thank you! I've found that this video and your "How to make your home look cohesive" video have been so helpful in training my eye to understand WHY these pictures of gorgeous rooms work. It's not just about the furniture - it has to do with so many other elements like colour and repetition and of course, these small designer details. I feel so much more well-equipped to style my own space because I am now looking at the WHY rather than just thinking "ooh that's pretty". Thank you again for another great video!!
Wow, I’ve done my baseboards, switch plates, doors, cabinet pulls, door hardware and accent lighting. I updated the trim around my windows, because my house isn’t the right style for molding or ceiling treatments. And yes, all to make my house less builder grade. Great suggestions!
Have your popcorn ceiling tested for asbastos. If it comes back clean, removing it is super easy, but messy. You'll need water proof ground cloths, a spray bottle or better yet a pump, a wide drywall trowel and lots of elbow grease. I've done four houses and I'm a 5''2", working,👍💝 single mom.
Yes! I did that to a previous house, but I dragged in the garden hose and gently sprayed the ceiling with no mess nor floating dry wall all over the house. Easy, peasy!!
This is going to be so useful... it is the details that really round up the whole space. We don't often talk about switch plates really, thanks for the content!
I did this when I painted a wall in a dark gray, I went into Bunnings and bought some brushed stainless cover plates and it sets off the wall very nicely rather than the manky old yellowed plate so common in NZ homes.
Another thing to consider with hollow core doors, especially those metal exterior doors, is heat transfer - they conduct heat in or out way too easily. They radiate heat into the house in summer, and let it out in the winter. They really need a foam insulation sandwiched into the metal.
Rating this video for renter friendliness: 1. DIY baseboards to cover those you have _are_ possible! Involved, but renter friendly. 2. Switch plates are renter friendly changes! 3. Doors cannot generally be changed in rentals. (And where would you store them? 😊) You can search for soundproofing options and ways to close gaps between the doors and frames. 4. Cabinet door handle changes are renter friendly! 5. Door handles are generally renter friendly changes, just be aware that you might encounter different paint colors underneath the original door handle if you're going for a different shape. 6. Accent lighting: renter friendly! There are puck lights and even fancy sconces that can be plugged in or LEDs that run on battery power. 7. Ceiling treatments: this is hard to safely change. Beware of safety hazards as you try DIY and understand that you will spend hours unpeeling wallpaper or faux mouldings. Know that options will be limited. _But change that light fixture, for sure!_ 8. Mouldings: similar point as above, know that you'll spend hours undoing this work when you're done with your rental, and you could encounter unexpected damage, but it's possible and there are lots of customizations! As always, thanks Nick!
If sound proofing is an issue I highly recommend custom made earplugs. They're not only great for excellent sleep in noisy environments and air travel. (Almost eliminates the engine noise and/or that poor screeching baby.) Under $200 and a lot less than solid core doors throughout.
If you are renting from a small landlord (who just has a couple of rentals), talk to them. You may be able to do much more than you think, if it will increase the property value. I own a duplex, live upstairs and rent out the lower unit. If my tenants wanted to paint, add moldings or a ceiling feature, and it fit with the style of the unit (1900 Craftsman), not only would I let them do it, I'd probably pay for the materials. [The building already has 9" baseboards and 5 panel solid core doors with original hardware.]
I honestly wonder do these kind of renters actually exist? Is it American thing? I have never encountered anyone who would do any of this to the rental (maybe except adding a simple led light). I am also a renter, it seems like a big waste of money and time to make all these changes.
@@renenetatm8222 For me it depends entirely on how ugly the premises are and how long I need to rent. I have worked with landlords to make upgrades (black out blinds, painting, over the range microwave/fan) and in some instances paid a portion of the cost. I like a gorgeous home environment that lifts my spirits, is my sanctuary and offers easy functionality. I'm willing to invest in that for myself. In the end it can be cheaper than going to the spa to be able to indulge in luxe comforts in my own home even if I do not own that home.
@@renenetatm8222 There are some places (big cities) where a tenant may rent the space for years on end, or even for their whole lives. In that case, I definitely understand the desire to upgrade.
We had our electrician install recessed lighting with dimmers in every room in the house so we can customize our lighting for the mood etc. Love it so much!
I think trim molding size has to do with wall height. If you have nine foot walls, you need proper size molding to not get lost. Likewise, if your ceiling is standard, don't go to big.
Loved this video. I knew most of this, but as you were saying the items, I noticed my wall plates in my kitchen and they were exactly what you were describing!🤯. I redid my dining space with beautiful wainscoting and put beautiful new plates there. I redid our gameroom with beautiful coffered ceilings and changed the wall plates there, but my kitchen which had been remodeled earlier still has those awful ivory plastic wall plates!!!! Now that you've pointed them out, I won't be able to go in the kitchen without seeing them. Off to find some new beautiful wall plates!😊
I LOVE that you don’t pretend your taste is the only way to go. So needed in this online space! It makes me take your suggestions even more to heart ❤️
I’m not sure if you’ve made a video on this already, but one where you talk about “renter friendly” ,“get full deposit back” design tips. Since you can’t change much with these kinds of places it might be a cool video to help ppl out (including me)!
I ❤️ watching and learning about design, but started to become discouraged because of too many choices and changing styles. This video is one of the most helpful I've ever seen,and I believe these changes are the things you can't quite put your finger on when you admire a house,and one of the main reasons I love older homes.Thanks Nick
We re-textured our ceiling, and I can’t believe what a difference it made. I thought it was going to be something I didn’t even notice, but it really updated this home that was built in the 70’s
I'm not an interior designer by any means; I work on defense satellites actually, but I do appreciate when spaces incorporate consistent small details which I also tend to focus on in my own (Victorian) house restoration/revitalization. Tall baseboards give better proportion to a room, especially when the older style doors have tall kick plates that almost match in height. I've been switching out all the plastic light switches for push-button switches with bronze face plates because I'd rather have something original looking to the era than modern cheap plastic that everyone else has. All my doors are solid oak or pine and because I do woodwork as a hobby, by principal no fake wood will exist here. I agree with your points on cabinet hardware, ceiling treatments (which can give a great focal point in a room that's really busy, like my laundry room that has 4 doors & 2 windows), and moldings - that really gives a lot a more interest and does create a custom look. On a non-related point, barn doors are cheap looking and boring, i'd rather prefer a pocket door and it's much more space saving.
I love your tips about the baseboards! It is definitely is something most people would overlook. We purchased a home last year and I didn’t love the flooring (think late 90s oak laminate). Replacing all the flooring right way was not in our budget but we repainted and replaced the baseboards with taller modern ones and it made SUCH a difference to the space. We also switched out all the door handles to matte black and it bugged me that the hinges didn’t match so I went out and got some matte black spray paint and ta-da they now match and look great! My husband thought I was ocd but you’ve just validated me 😂
All your points are extremely well made and important. We are planning a complete remodel of a house we are buying, and you just went over a big part of our list of things to do! Thank you, I feel very validated!
I love how you just get right to it , and talking fast helps getting through the obvious. You do help me think of things that I could change to at to my design. Thank you.
Nick, you cram so much information into your videos that it blows my mind! I love that you're precise, to-the-point and show examples. This sets you up several notches above others!
I had popcorn ceiling in my 400 sq ft living room. I wasn't sure if it contained asbestos ,so I didn't want to disturb it. I found a product , 20" x 20" very thin fire rated tiles made from recycled styrofoam, they come in lots of different styles and are paintable. Mine look like a faux coffered ceiling. I installed it myself in about 8 hours. Looks great with my style which is MCM/Art Deco.
We remodeled a storybook Tudor and I refurbished all the glass knobs for the interior doors. They are beautiful. It took forever but it was well worth it.
Easy change to the standard ivory switch and outlet plates: spray paint with hammered metallic paint, even the screws. And I do the sockets and switches lightly a few times with cardboard around to protect the rest.
You hit all those things that I see when I walk into a space for the first time. Makes a place feel either really cheap or classy - and there is nothing that can change that first impact.
OMG Nick! I totally agree about the old switch plates. I am in the process of updating all the things you talked about today, especially the interior doors. Love you!
This may be a weird question but do you generally recommend using the same baseboards in the entire home or could you do a few variations? Not sure if it would add another fun detail or if it would look like the money run out for the kitchen and hallway. Great video as always!
I personally think it won't look cohesive and might draw attention to it but in a bad way. Also, if you don't see it done often, it's probably for a good reason. I would agree that it'll look like you ran out of money! Lol.
I'm very new to this, but moved into a beautiful home recently, and the detail I think looks wonderful is the different style and size of baseboard used between the different flooring types. In the bathroom and kitchen we have tile and a small modern baseboard for these smaller rooms, the other rooms have hardwood that is hundreds of years old and have more classic elegant and larger baseboards, without being incredibly detailed. It fits well in how our style is more Scandinavian in these more utility rooms, and mid century / traditional in the other rooms.
At least keep it the same in the same floor. My upstairs baseboards are simpler then downstairs, but do have the same material, colour and style (not shape). I hate that the baseboards downstairs differ from eachother. That will be changed asap!
Another thing with door handles, if you live in a home with lots of small children upgrading to something made of copper, bronze, or brass helps because those two metals are antibacterial and help keep the germs down. My parents old turn of the century home has all brass hardware and it's textured so beautifully over time.
Yeah, you're right. You know what,most people aren't really aware of these little details that make a lot of difference. Thanks for creating the awareness
In my rental we have old awful kitchen cabinets with wooden handles that are built in - not sure how to explain but they were popular in the 80’s - I painted them white and added black handles and it made a world of difference! 👍
You can actually turn a hollow core door into a solid door by filling it with insulation foam. It will help in soundproofing and add some weight as well. I actually installed a ceiling Medallion in my bathroom where the vent was located. The opening was perfect to still use vent. It adds so much character and like you said goes with many design styles.. Just look at Parisian homes with all the ornate molding yet modern aesthetic. The perfect yin and yang.
Another fantastic video from you. A quick comment on door hardware. I love lever style door knobs. But discovered that dogs can open them. But one day all my doors will have this style. My other comment on door knobs is to not be afraid to return them if they do not work for you. Dad installed round handles on the exterior doors of his house and one of them is so incredibly hard to get a proper grip on top open it. It is very slippery.
OMG, the switch plate covers! We just bought a new house, and the former owners had repainted most of it but left all the old switch plate covers. The one in my new office was a novelty one with baby angles on it-- fine, but very dated and *not* my style. Got a new one from home depot for $5 and it took 30 seconds to replace, but instantly made the room look like an adult lived there. 🤣
Hi Nick! You've focused on so many valid points! Well done! I particularly appreciate the ceiling, floor trim and crown moulding information. We have a 91 year old Florida bungalow. It has tongue and groove ceilings.We added crown moulding and wow what a difference! We had to be extra with careful where wall met crown. Ceilings aren't exactly square! Hurray for putty!
This video is the best!!!! All of your comments and suggestions are spot on!!! I will be heading to the stores immediately to incorporate many of your tips!!! Thanks! 🙂
This is so in line with what I am doing right now. I have hired contractors to do the things I can't do myself , but I am totally into the details you mention here. I can't seem to find a store that is still selling crown moulding, so I thought it must be out of style but I will keep looking as I do love the look. I was also upset when my guy added white plugs and switches and I will replace them once he is done. As far as ceilings go I only have a 12x12 room and am having a hard time getting a fixture that I like for this bedroom. I am not sure the circle around the light may be too much in a small room. I am also having larger baseboards, and so you have covered most of the things my contractor says are over the top, but I know what I want and I am paying for it so I will have it. So excited to see the finished room, decided to put barn doors on the closet as a real change, hope I like it LOL
Thank you ..... for being-acting-talking NORMAL!!!! Far too many hosts of home design channels act like cartoon characters or sound condescending..... You are proof one can be fun, informative & NORMAL ..... so refreshing!
Nick, Really great video! I’m planning a redo of the house I bought 5 years ago and am now contemplating an update. You’ve pretty much covered all the things I’m not pleased with in my space. As the quote goes, “ the devil is in the details”. I’m still stuck on the the fireplace surround, it seems out of proportion for the room. A video on that subject would be interesting. Big fan of your channel, keep up the good work 👍
Yes to switching out electrical outlets and switch plates!! My house came with the standard “almond” tan ones that, after 30 years, were super gross. The first thing I did was replace the old ones with new white ones. I even went as far as replacing the actual electrical receptacles and switches themselves and not just the outer plates. This is a relatively easy thing to DIY - just make sure that you are following all electrical safety measures. It made an immediate impact on the entire space!
1. Have tall baseboards instead of the thin small builder grade ones ideally get 6 inch ones. 2. Light switches make a big impact for example, brass plates etc. No dirty old plates or light switches. 3. The quality of your doors a solid core door versus hollow core doors if you can afford solid core it is more ideal especially for bathrooms and bedrooms 4. Cabinet pulls and door hardware upgrading the handles makes a big impact, also consider the hinges to match the handles. 5. Accent lighting added to the lighting plan it highlights artwork and interesting special pieces. 6. Ceiling treatments for example adding mouldings, wallpaper and ceiling medallions does not include popcorn ceilings 7. Mouldings, very versatile looks really designer and customised.
Omg. I think I'm totally about to wallpaper my bedroom ceiling now. I live in a rental apartment so I don't want to do anything permanent, but I've always loved the romantic painted ceilings you sometimes see on Pinterest. Wallpapering it with peel and stick wallpaper is the perfect solution to get that aesthetic without having to put in a lot of effort too undo when it's time to move out.
I recently had my kitchen painted light gray and you're so right, the switch plates looked gross! They all went in the garbage and new ones were put on. 😀 Same thing with furnace vents if you have forced air heat, I've replaced the old ones in my house and spray painted the large cold air return grate.
Great video Nick! I've been obsessed with changing the switch plates in my apartment, unfortunately here in Japan there aren't a lot of options besides plastic (off-white and beige). Also, here in Japan, every wall, including the ceiling, in every room is wallpapered - the only places that are not are the backsplash in the kitchen, the actual shower room (but not the wash/toilet area), and the tatami room. If you are lucky you will have a proper wooden ceiling the tatami room, but in newer builds that "wood" ceiling is actually plastic. The wallpapered ceilings here are unfortunately going for the popcorn look, although it is much more minimal than the real thing. I'd love to paint or have interesting mouldings, it's just not really possible here unless you own, build from scratch, or do extensive renos.
Light switch plates!!! Thank you. They drive me nuts. That dirty not white plastic gives me the heebie jeebies. I replaced all of ours as soon as we moved in. I also painted the ceiling of my office "Shadow" Benjamin Moore's color of the year 2017. Love it.
Nick -Thank you! This is the best affirmation that we are doing things right. My SO and I have been working room by room on our house and we overhaul everything! Scrape the popcorn, update the paint and the floor replace the baseboards, lighting etc. Tall baseboards also hide damage to the drywall when you replace flooring. Replacing the outlets etc is actually one of my favorite steps since it means we are getting close to a final product. Even an updates 30 cent plastic switch plate looks so much better than the old yellowed ones that may be splattered with the old paint color. Or totally painted in the old paint color (yes, it's hideous).
I miss my foot high skirting boards in the Edwardian flat I used to live in. They were awesome. Busy replacing all mine in the current house - downstairs complete, just upstairs to do now.
I completely agree with your inclusion of baseboards/moulding and I would specifically point out the huge impact that adding proper window casements can make. Most builder grade window casements just have 4 boring mitered pieces of home Depot trim. Switching that out with an architrave, sil/stool, and an apron is such a huge step up and it's easy/cheap to do yourself if you have the tools
Thanks for all your informative videos. I liked the fact that you touched on ceiling treatments. Would it be possible to make a presentation dedicated to ceiling treatments alone and how to tackle the design challenges of ceiling moldings for large open spaces when living and dinning are combined. And how to go about installing without removing the crown moldings already installed. Thanks!
My husband changed out all the door handles and matching metal door hinges and it made SUCH a big difference! They were just Home Depot brushed nickel with a small accent around the knob, but it feels so nice!
In my townhouse a few years ago, I found paintable wood switch and outlet plates and painted them all to match the wall color. And when renting at a minimum I replace all the outlet covers with fresh clean white switch plates. A big difference for such a small change. I also change out all the cabinet knobs!,
I have just bought my first apartment. Small one, but my own. You are my beacon, my guru, I have applied all the advises you have given here on youtube (which I watch obsessively). I just love you!
I TOTALLY agree with you about the base boards and the cheapest switch covers. Makes the biggest difference. These were great additions that my hubby decided to upgrade and seriously, it looks so good and not like a "project-home". Project homes are those cheaply built cookie-cutter homes in Australia.
Nick, what do you think about painting the switchplates the same color as the walls? I saw it in a gift shop and thought it was interesting. Love the video, so much inspiration!!
I thought that was a good idea too, because I like a really minimal look. So I got paint-able switch plate and outlet covers for our master bedroom. Within weeks, the paint started scratching off, just from normal use. They looked good for about 2 weeks. I don't know if it's the cover's surface or the paint I used, but they didn't last unfortunately.
I have used the paintable outlet covers to make them “disappear,” but I don’t think the surface would hold up on a high-touch item like a switch plate without getting grimy
You were just recommended on my home page and now I’m cuh-razy about your channel. I’m recommending it to anyone who has a lock of interest in home decor. Love your style, love your vibe. Thanks for your fast talking, informational, fun and upbeat videos.
So glad I watched to the end. After the 1st segment that was about baseboards, I expected the 2nd segment to be about crown moldings/mouldings. I think they are much more important to a design than baseboards since so much of them are covered with furniture, draperies, doors etc. You need to do a full segment on crown moldings. Loving your videos, Nick. Thank you.
I did a refresh of a house once and all I did was replace the countertop in the kitchen, paint the kitchen cabinets, put in under-cab lights, replace the outdoor lights, and replace light switches. It sold in a day, multiple offers. When I bought it, it had sat on the market for a while. Light switches are important! Made a big difference to the feel of the house
Great video Nick! Have a major reno in my future and will implement each one of these points that I think are brilliant! Love your insightful and often humorous comments. 😃
We recently had our ceiling resurfaced, it looks so much nicer. My husband thought it was going to be a waste of money, but he sees the difference now. Also, switched our outlet and light switch plates out with ones you can pick up at Home Depot or Lowes that look more modern and have plates that cover the part with screws. Nothing fancy, but they look way nicer. I'm looking for a company now to make the switch to solid core doors and I'm working on convincing my husband on the moulding idea ; )
Thank you Nick! I have been thinking about adding moulding to my rental apt. I wish I can take out that nasty popcorn ceiling! I definitely changing the light fixture in my dining and bathroom. Thanks for the inspiration.
Thank you Nick; great info as always. I would like to hear more about ceiling medallions and how to work with them in terms of design style. I have several that all have lighting fixtures installed. I plan on switching out the lighting to suit a more modern aesthetic. Suggestions?
Thank you! Yeah, my Inch-and-a-half (?) builder grade 1983 California coast condo base boards visually suck. But I ignore them and have changed all my plates, hardware and handles instead! Not difficult. Be not afraid! . I’d like to add moulding at some point but I need to figure out a 45 degree angle first. Also painted my manufacturer doors. Added some pulled electrical to ceilings (tip - be sure your electrician carves the drywall cuts in a way you can place them back systematically. I learned the hard way! 😂) Popcorn ceilings: Messy but I did my lower ceilings on a stepladder with sprayed water and a scraper (scalpel maybe?) Messy but free. For my 18 foot ceilings I just hired painters who brought up scaffolding and I coached them on the technique. Nowhere near perfect in any of these cases but darn good enough for me for now! 💃😅
Love this!! I always use tall baseboards, right now I have 10 in tall ones and love it. When we have people come to our house, the one thing that gets the most compliments is our ceilings. We do them ourselves. They are white washed pine curbsiding material, they are beautiful and easy to do. All our outside patios have it also. We are getting ready to build another home and all the ceilings in it including an adjacent apartment will have those ceilings. We whitewash them before installing them just using a waterbased polyurethane and pure white pitment. In our MB, I did do a blue wash I concocted and it's beautiful. I also have started using frosted glass doors in the house for every room and I also make sure my doors always have 3 hinges instead of 2 and they always match the handles. I love the way the glass allows the light to move from room to room. These are just some of the things we do in every house we build. One last thing we do in all our houses we build is no ceiling is shorter than 9 feet.
My favorite video so far! Probably because all the details you mentioned are things I notice and appreciate when I see them done well. Thanks for making it! A perfect check list! We done!!!
Totally agree about ALL these details... the switch plates and outlets not updated in an construction update, refresh or reno always make me wonder 'what were they thinking?'!
Nick! I just redid the family bathroom. Got matte black switch plates to match the new faucet, then painted the (25 yr old unfinished pine) baseboards black. What a difference! ❤
Just want to say in case it’s helpful to someone whose thinking of having copper light switches and sockets, that we are just having our house renovated and in a couple of rooms want copper switches and sockets, but told by electrician and builder you have to wait a year before we can put them on our walls, because plaster takes a year to dry and if you put copper sockets on they will corrode. I never realised it would have been an expensive mistake if they hadn’t told me!
Popcorn ceilings if done right, is good for sound absorbing. I sliced the top of my hollow core doors and filled them with spray insulation. It really helps to block sounds from the kids rooms. It took a lot of time but well worth it.
Oh, I also couldn’t change out baseboards. 4600 square feet. 😗 I did board and batten millworker throughout the house. It brought a custom look to our walls, and took away the box look of a rooms. It was a good choice. Loving it.
I love that you go into so much detail. From a completely newbie point of view: what's the function of a baseboard if there is any? I wonder because it makes cupboards harder to fit against walls so it's bit of a hassle. I also wonder if there's a "right" way of doing moldings. Your tv seems to be in a space between two elevations. Is that always the aim? Would a picture hanging across moulding look weird? There's not much wall moulding tradition where I live and I was wondering about the "rules".
Great explanation! Also OP if you are going for a minimalist look you can ask for a wall with no skirting and a shadow gap instead, but this will cost extra as it is more detailed work. There is also flush skirting as well as another option. I personally prefer the look of no skirting unless it is in a heritage property but I appreciate the practical and economic functions it provides.
If you have wood floors, they will expand and contract a few millimetres depending on season and humidity, so one needs a small gap between flooring and wall to allow for that and skirting/base boards to cover the gap.
Thanks. 100% agree. Going thru a kitchen remodel and baseboards are door casings are my focus today. Former homeowners changed out some of the baseboards and door casings with intricate curves in a MCM house. The worst part is some of the old baseboards and casings remain. Yes, a hot mess!
Thanks, Nick. Very helpful video. I’m adding “lipstick” to a 1974 basic condo, prior to selling it. Trying to add interest but balancing the cost of upgrades. Your moulding suggestion with a new paint colour will add dimension to distinguish this unit from the crowd, without intimidating the average buyer. Gracias
As the daughter of a renovator, I hope people appreciate the value of those first two suggestions--intentional and quality baseboards and solid core doors. These are the things people notice subconsciously, when they aren't sure why they like things, and these are also things that speak to basic quality in huge ways. I'd rather see people selvedge and reuse solid core doors more often than go for the cheaper feeling hollow option. Quality Baseboards and doors really affect how your house will age too, so this goes beyond aesthetics. Baseboards and doors are heros of function, taking much use and abuse over time. Intentionality and quality products mean they can ,more often, be rejuvenated. Solid wood door leftovers can often be converted into other simple furniture and such too. My very functional basement sewing table is made from one. Not a decor tip--just a reminder that stuff made well can live many lives under numerous coats of paint.
Thank you for this! I have been thinking of these details quite a lot lately, and this video has a lot of useful information.
So true! I amalways so impressed to see an old door turned into a cool desk or table!🐾🌈☮️🇨🇦
This is so true. I always hated how my door felt and never put together why.
I love it when Nick says 'who cares what I think', well, WE ALL CARE (all the subscribers)!
The most important detail, in every home, is do away with clutter. It won't matter what your trim looks like, or if your switch plates are fancy, if you have any crap laying around.
An organized room will always look good.
Good point, and I think clutter on the floor is worst. Although my home is practically never truly free of clutter (and I dont even know if I can fix that, its not my strongest side), I regularly do house shores like washing the kitchen bench and taking out garbage and occasional tidying. Maybe some extra tidying is good right before getting visitors. But I honestly think a too empty/boring room is worse than a too messy one, unless were talking about an absolutely extreme amount if mess like someone with a serious hoarding problem. Its not a guarantee it looks good just because its tidy.
Also if I were considering (but not settled) moving together with someone, like if were dating, I would actually prefer the one who has a moderate amount of mess. If their home is too perfectly clean and tidy I think they would be exhausting to live with, because they (probably) need things tidy at all times. But they obviously shouldn't live in an indoor dumpster either. There goes a limit for how much mess I would accept, and hygiene is more important than tidiness.
O
People go clutter blind.
Easier said than done, I need help getting organized and NO ONE will help me! I even hired an prof organizer who did nothing
I have learned more about interiors from a marathon of your videos than from 3yrs of studying Interior Architecture :)) Thanks!
Proudly looking around my circa 1914 historic home with its 6” baseboards, original solid core doors with original bronze hardware, and the two dozen light switches I upgraded by myself.
Yes! Our 1916 craftsman had been " updated" in the 60's. All the moulding had been removed and ceilings lowered. We restored it all over the years. We finished the cellar basement in to bedrooms and used hollow core doors for budget reasons. 35 years went by and we were able to replace them all with antique doors to match the upstairs. Easy to find and cheap. Got all vintage hardware on eBay. Feels really great to open and close those doors.
And I replaced all the switch plates w antique brass and black switches. Not expensive, but huge impact. But we've been in our house 46 years. Took time.
Hey Nick! This was interesting! I can’t remember if you’ve done a video on it, but maybe along these same lines follow up with a video such as “Items that Aren’t Worth Splurging On” or something like that… design areas that you can allocate less money to without it affecting everything.
Great suggestion!
I know pot filler will be on there :)
@@Lengthylentil maybe also that pull down kitchen nozzle on the main faucet. Annoying when they hang!
oh no would not ever get rid of mine but is a choice...@@robinbirdj743
It's pretty common here in Florida to have the master bedroom off the open concept living/dining/kitchen area. We changed all the doors from hollow to solid core a few months ago and it has been a game changer. We don't hear the kitchen appliances through the French doors anymore. We upgraded all the hardware, too. Now we feel like we're living in a European villa.
This video is giving me permission to plan on doing all the things I’ve been wanting to do around the house!
In my rentals I always changed the switch plates. Even at Home Depot you can find nicer ones in brass or nickel that don't cost a lot. Way better than the yellowing plastic. I just stuck the old plates in zip lock baggies with the screws and stuck them in the back of the closet to put them back when I moved out.
That’s a good idea.
We put up heavy victorian brass ones in the old house, and changed all the boring interior door knobs for matching brass ones with large door plates and glass knobs and on a few, keyholes that locked with a skeleton key, to keep visiting little ones out of some rooms.
On the current house, we have mosaic switchplates, in blue in some rooms and a silvery gray and brown in others. In bathrooms, heavy porcelain, in the kitchen a seashell mosaic the color of sand. The house had an ugly plug-in for a landline that we covered up with a blank plate that was seashell mosaic and where the plug holes would be, an actual seashell covers the center. Just don't get those plain or beveled glass mirror ones. We put them upstairs in the old house, in the master bath and bedroom, and they didn't lie flush to the wall, and we were always catching our hands on their sharp corners. The hardware stores are great, but look up actual door and window hardware-only stores online. It's absolutely amazing how many designs there are out there.
This is one of your best videos, I say in my humble opinion. I am also a lover of moldings. You can do a lot with some moldings, a little glue and tack nails!!
Oh wow thanks Jules! I love them too!
There is absolutely nothing new in this video that hasn't been said in a 100 magazines for over a decade or more.
@@SlimKeith11 But we were able to watch this in 17 minutes instead of reading a hundred magazines over a decade or more.
And shows that these tips are tried and true - if advice stays true for a long time, then I'm going to trust it more 👌
@@SlimKeith11 Well, I haven't read nor seen those "100s" of magazines and this was presented in just a few minutes. Winner all around.
Best quick & traditional idea for a higher baseboard was one I saw (on HGTV I think) : designer added half-round moulding about 2-3" above the existing baseboard, and painted it and the wall between with baseboard colour. Ingenious, AND no rip-out! (Ditto ceiling trim, but it was a high ceiling).
Thank you for the great tip, Dyana!
I see that in newer homes here, it doesn’t fool me…I think where else did builder cut corners???
Thanks! I was trying to figure out how I could add baseboard heights.
VINDICATION! I care about and either updated or want to update everything listed. People thought it was weird that I 1) cared about baseboard and 2) went with 5.5 inches even though I only have 8-ft ceilings.
Until now I'd gone through life without the word knurl. Thank you, Nick. My new word for the year (not kidding). Excellent video BTW.
Lol me too. I learned a word of my native language today. A really old one too.
I have this weird habit of watching the clock behind Nick periodically throughout the video to see how long it took to create this video and compare it to the final video. I appreciate the editing it takes. Am I the only one? Ok then, I'm weird
I'm yet to figure it out. It always seems to start at the same time. Then it moves forward then moves backwards. I know it's a working clock because he's talked about it before. But you're not weird. I'm right there with you.
I watch the clock as well on every video providing the assumption that Nick is a night person b/c it is always around midnight👩🏻🦱
Oh, Nick. You’re like a sunshine 🌞. Love to watch you.
Hello everybody!
From Europe.
Wow this all seems so obvious but I had never really thought about how these small details can have such an impact! Thank you! I've found that this video and your "How to make your home look cohesive" video have been so helpful in training my eye to understand WHY these pictures of gorgeous rooms work. It's not just about the furniture - it has to do with so many other elements like colour and repetition and of course, these small designer details. I feel so much more well-equipped to style my own space because I am now looking at the WHY rather than just thinking "ooh that's pretty". Thank you again for another great video!!
Wow, I’ve done my baseboards, switch plates, doors, cabinet pulls, door hardware and accent lighting. I updated the trim around my windows, because my house isn’t the right style for molding or ceiling treatments. And yes, all to make my house less builder grade. Great suggestions!
Good on you, I am 27 yrs into making my place not builder grade. Just did the ceiling lighting.
Have your popcorn ceiling tested for asbastos. If it comes back clean, removing it is super easy, but messy. You'll need water proof ground cloths, a spray bottle or better yet a pump, a wide drywall trowel and lots of elbow grease. I've done four houses and I'm a 5''2", working,👍💝 single mom.
All true, unless someone has painted over the popcorn!
Yes! I did that to a previous house, but I dragged in the garden hose and gently sprayed the ceiling with no mess nor floating dry wall all over the house. Easy, peasy!!
@@leec5170 Omg nobody warned me about this! It’s still doeable but you have to sand the popcorn so the water can soak in
@@cjboyo Lol...sounds like you've experienced the dreaded painted popcorn, too!
good for you 😅❤
Great video. I wanted to point out that the “ modern” slab baseboards you mentioned are also considered classic craftsman style.
This is going to be so useful... it is the details that really round up the whole space. We don't often talk about switch plates really, thanks for the content!
It's those little finishing touches! ✨
I did this when I painted a wall in a dark gray, I went into Bunnings and bought some brushed stainless cover plates and it sets off the wall very nicely rather than the manky old yellowed plate so common in NZ homes.
Another thing to consider with hollow core doors, especially those metal exterior doors, is heat transfer - they conduct heat in or out way too easily. They radiate heat into the house in summer, and let it out in the winter. They really need a foam insulation sandwiched into the metal.
Rating this video for renter friendliness:
1. DIY baseboards to cover those you have _are_ possible! Involved, but renter friendly.
2. Switch plates are renter friendly changes!
3. Doors cannot generally be changed in rentals. (And where would you store them? 😊) You can search for soundproofing options and ways to close gaps between the doors and frames.
4. Cabinet door handle changes are renter friendly!
5. Door handles are generally renter friendly changes, just be aware that you might encounter different paint colors underneath the original door handle if you're going for a different shape.
6. Accent lighting: renter friendly! There are puck lights and even fancy sconces that can be plugged in or LEDs that run on battery power.
7. Ceiling treatments: this is hard to safely change. Beware of safety hazards as you try DIY and understand that you will spend hours unpeeling wallpaper or faux mouldings. Know that options will be limited. _But change that light fixture, for sure!_
8. Mouldings: similar point as above, know that you'll spend hours undoing this work when you're done with your rental, and you could encounter unexpected damage, but it's possible and there are lots of customizations!
As always, thanks Nick!
If sound proofing is an issue I highly recommend custom made earplugs. They're not only great for excellent sleep in noisy environments and air travel. (Almost eliminates the engine noise and/or that poor screeching baby.) Under $200 and a lot less than solid core doors throughout.
If you are renting from a small landlord (who just has a couple of rentals), talk to them. You may be able to do much more than you think, if it will increase the property value.
I own a duplex, live upstairs and rent out the lower unit. If my tenants wanted to paint, add moldings or a ceiling feature, and it fit with the style of the unit (1900 Craftsman), not only would I let them do it, I'd probably pay for the materials. [The building already has 9" baseboards and 5 panel solid core doors with original hardware.]
I honestly wonder do these kind of renters actually exist? Is it American thing? I have never encountered anyone who would do any of this to the rental (maybe except adding a simple led light). I am also a renter, it seems like a big waste of money and time to make all these changes.
@@renenetatm8222 For me it depends entirely on how ugly the premises are and how long I need to rent. I have worked with landlords to make upgrades (black out blinds, painting, over the range microwave/fan) and in some instances paid a portion of the cost. I like a gorgeous home environment that lifts my spirits, is my sanctuary and offers easy functionality. I'm willing to invest in that for myself. In the end it can be cheaper than going to the spa to be able to indulge in luxe comforts in my own home even if I do not own that home.
@@renenetatm8222 There are some places (big cities) where a tenant may rent the space for years on end, or even for their whole lives. In that case, I definitely understand the desire to upgrade.
Two types of people: people who despise popcorn ceilings; and people who are wrong 😹
WELL SAID!
We had our electrician install recessed lighting with dimmers in every room in the house so we can customize our lighting for the mood etc. Love it so much!
Hearing your voice just makes me happy, because I know I’m going to learn some thing interesting and also be completely entertained by your video!
I think trim molding size has to do with wall height. If you have nine foot walls, you need proper size molding to not get lost. Likewise, if your ceiling is standard, don't go to big.
Loved this video. I knew most of this, but as you were saying the items, I noticed my wall plates in my kitchen and they were exactly what you were describing!🤯. I redid my dining space with beautiful wainscoting and put beautiful new plates there. I redid our gameroom with beautiful coffered ceilings and changed the wall plates there, but my kitchen which had been remodeled earlier still has those awful ivory plastic wall plates!!!! Now that you've pointed them out, I won't be able to go in the kitchen without seeing them. Off to find some new beautiful wall plates!😊
On line has so many choices, they make a difference.
I LOVE that you don’t pretend your taste is the only way to go. So needed in this online space! It makes me take your suggestions even more to heart ❤️
I’m not sure if you’ve made a video on this already, but one where you talk about “renter friendly” ,“get full deposit back” design tips. Since you can’t change much with these kinds of places it might be a cool video to help ppl out (including me)!
I ❤️ watching and learning about design, but started to become discouraged because of too many choices and changing styles.
This video is one of the most helpful I've ever seen,and I believe these changes are the things you can't quite put your finger on when you admire a house,and one of the main reasons I love older homes.Thanks Nick
We re-textured our ceiling, and I can’t believe what a difference it made. I thought it was going to be something I didn’t even notice, but it really updated this home that was built in the 70’s
Ceiling medallions are super easy and affordable, from $10-$200, and come in modern designs as well as traditional
Just paint them
I'm not an interior designer by any means; I work on defense satellites actually, but I do appreciate when spaces incorporate consistent small details which I also tend to focus on in my own (Victorian) house restoration/revitalization. Tall baseboards give better proportion to a room, especially when the older style doors have tall kick plates that almost match in height. I've been switching out all the plastic light switches for push-button switches with bronze face plates because I'd rather have something original looking to the era than modern cheap plastic that everyone else has. All my doors are solid oak or pine and because I do woodwork as a hobby, by principal no fake wood will exist here. I agree with your points on cabinet hardware, ceiling treatments (which can give a great focal point in a room that's really busy, like my laundry room that has 4 doors & 2 windows), and moldings - that really gives a lot a more interest and does create a custom look. On a non-related point, barn doors are cheap looking and boring, i'd rather prefer a pocket door and it's much more space saving.
I love your tips about the baseboards! It is definitely is something most people would overlook. We purchased a home last year and I didn’t love the flooring (think late 90s oak laminate). Replacing all the flooring right way was not in our budget but we repainted and replaced the baseboards with taller modern ones and it made SUCH a difference to the space.
We also switched out all the door handles to matte black and it bugged me that the hinges didn’t match so I went out and got some matte black spray paint and ta-da they now match and look great! My husband thought I was ocd but you’ve just validated me 😂
All your points are extremely well made and important. We are planning a complete remodel of a house we are buying, and you just went over a big part of our list of things to do! Thank you, I feel very validated!
100% agree with the outlet (sockets in the UK 😊)/switch plate detail. A little pet peeve of mine for new kitchens. Great video as always!
I love how you just get right to it , and talking fast helps getting through the obvious. You do help me think of things that I could change to at to my design. Thank you.
Nick, you cram so much information into your videos that it blows my mind! I love that you're precise, to-the-point and show examples. This sets you up several notches above others!
I had popcorn ceiling in my 400 sq ft living room. I wasn't sure if it contained asbestos ,so I didn't want to disturb it. I found a product , 20" x 20" very thin fire rated tiles made from recycled styrofoam, they come in lots of different styles and are paintable. Mine look like a faux coffered ceiling. I installed it myself in about 8 hours. Looks great with my style which is MCM/Art Deco.
We remodeled a storybook Tudor and I refurbished all the glass knobs for the interior doors. They are beautiful. It took forever but it was well worth it.
We just used hammered black paint on our wood switch plates and outlets to upgrade. They look awesome.
Easy change to the standard ivory switch and outlet plates: spray paint with hammered metallic paint, even the screws. And I do the sockets and switches lightly a few times with cardboard around to protect the rest.
You hit all those things that I see when I walk into a space for the first time. Makes a place feel either really cheap or classy - and there is nothing that can change that first impact.
OMG Nick! I totally agree about the old switch plates. I am in the process of updating all the things you talked about today, especially the interior doors. Love you!
This may be a weird question but do you generally recommend using the same baseboards in the entire home or could you do a few variations? Not sure if it would add another fun detail or if it would look like the money run out for the kitchen and hallway.
Great video as always!
I personally think it won't look cohesive and might draw attention to it but in a bad way. Also, if you don't see it done often, it's probably for a good reason. I would agree that it'll look like you ran out of money! Lol.
I'm very new to this, but moved into a beautiful home recently, and the detail I think looks wonderful is the different style and size of baseboard used between the different flooring types. In the bathroom and kitchen we have tile and a small modern baseboard for these smaller rooms, the other rooms have hardwood that is hundreds of years old and have more classic elegant and larger baseboards, without being incredibly detailed. It fits well in how our style is more Scandinavian in these more utility rooms, and mid century / traditional in the other rooms.
At least keep it the same in the same floor. My upstairs baseboards are simpler then downstairs, but do have the same material, colour and style (not shape). I hate that the baseboards downstairs differ from eachother. That will be changed asap!
Another thing with door handles, if you live in a home with lots of small children upgrading to something made of copper, bronze, or brass helps because those two metals are antibacterial and help keep the germs down. My parents old turn of the century home has all brass hardware and it's textured so beautifully over time.
Yeah, you're right. You know what,most people aren't really aware of these little details that make a lot of difference. Thanks for creating the awareness
Great ideas for elevating your space. Thanks Nick! Plus your delivery- you make me laugh! You are very likable!
In my rental we have old awful kitchen cabinets with wooden handles that are built in - not sure how to explain but they were popular in the 80’s - I painted them white and added black handles and it made a world of difference! 👍
You can actually turn a hollow core door into a solid door by filling it with insulation foam. It will help in soundproofing and add some weight as well. I actually installed a ceiling Medallion in my bathroom where the vent was located. The opening was perfect to still use vent. It adds so much character and like you said goes with many design styles.. Just look at Parisian homes with all the ornate molding yet modern aesthetic. The perfect yin and yang.
I was wondering if it would be possible to insulate the door somehow. I'll definitely have to look into this for mine.
That stuff is so toxic tho better off getting an actual door
Another fantastic video from you.
A quick comment on door hardware. I love lever style door knobs. But discovered that dogs can open them. But one day all my doors will have this style. My other comment on door knobs is to not be afraid to return them if they do not work for you. Dad installed round handles on the exterior doors of his house and one of them is so incredibly hard to get a proper grip on top open it. It is very slippery.
Not just dogs. My cat can open every door in the house because they are the lever style. Gotta love those furbabies!
OMG, the switch plate covers! We just bought a new house, and the former owners had repainted most of it but left all the old switch plate covers. The one in my new office was a novelty one with baby angles on it-- fine, but very dated and *not* my style. Got a new one from home depot for $5 and it took 30 seconds to replace, but instantly made the room look like an adult lived there. 🤣
Hi Nick! You've focused on so many valid points! Well done! I particularly appreciate the ceiling, floor trim and crown moulding information. We have a 91 year old Florida bungalow. It has tongue and groove ceilings.We added crown moulding and wow what a difference! We had to be extra with careful where wall met crown. Ceilings aren't exactly square! Hurray for putty!
This video is the best!!!! All of your comments and suggestions are spot on!!! I will be heading to the stores immediately to incorporate many of your tips!!! Thanks! 🙂
This is so in line with what I am doing right now. I have hired contractors to do the things I can't do myself , but I am totally into the details you mention here. I can't seem to find a store that is still selling crown moulding, so I thought it must be out of style but I will keep looking as I do love the look. I was also upset when my guy added white plugs and switches and I will replace them once he is done. As far as ceilings go I only have a 12x12 room and am having a hard time getting a fixture that I like for this bedroom. I am not sure the circle around the light may be too much in a small room. I am also having larger baseboards, and so you have covered most of the things my contractor says are over the top, but I know what I want and I am paying for it so I will have it. So excited to see the finished room, decided to put barn doors on the closet as a real change, hope I like it LOL
Thank you ..... for being-acting-talking NORMAL!!!! Far too many hosts of home design channels act like cartoon characters or sound condescending..... You are proof one can be fun, informative & NORMAL ..... so refreshing!
Nick,
Really great video!
I’m planning a redo of the house I bought 5 years ago and am now contemplating an update. You’ve pretty much covered all the things I’m not pleased with in my space.
As the quote goes, “ the devil is in the details”. I’m still stuck on the the fireplace surround, it seems out of proportion for the room. A video on that subject would be interesting.
Big fan of your channel, keep up the good work 👍
Yes to switching out electrical outlets and switch plates!! My house came with the standard “almond” tan ones that, after 30 years, were super gross. The first thing I did was replace the old ones with new white ones. I even went as far as replacing the actual electrical receptacles and switches themselves and not just the outer plates. This is a relatively easy thing to DIY - just make sure that you are following all electrical safety measures. It made an immediate impact on the entire space!
Thank you for saying the baseboards on my hundred year old home are modern and stylish. They are tall and straight, and original. I love them.
Couldn’t agree more about the switch plates. My personal pet peeve! Great video. Thanks Nick.
1. Have tall baseboards instead of the thin small builder grade ones ideally get 6 inch ones.
2. Light switches make a big impact for example, brass plates etc. No dirty old plates or light switches.
3. The quality of your doors a solid core door versus hollow core doors if you can afford solid core it is more ideal especially for bathrooms and bedrooms
4. Cabinet pulls and door hardware upgrading the handles makes a big impact, also consider the hinges to match the handles.
5. Accent lighting added to the lighting plan it highlights artwork and interesting special pieces.
6. Ceiling treatments for example adding mouldings, wallpaper and ceiling medallions does not include popcorn ceilings
7. Mouldings, very versatile looks really designer and customised.
Omg. I think I'm totally about to wallpaper my bedroom ceiling now. I live in a rental apartment so I don't want to do anything permanent, but I've always loved the romantic painted ceilings you sometimes see on Pinterest. Wallpapering it with peel and stick wallpaper is the perfect solution to get that aesthetic without having to put in a lot of effort too undo when it's time to move out.
First thing I did in my apartment was change out the switch plates just went to Lowe’s got like a burnished bronze perfect it looks wonderful
I recently had my kitchen painted light gray and you're so right, the switch plates looked gross! They all went in the garbage and new ones were put on. 😀 Same thing with furnace vents if you have forced air heat, I've replaced the old ones in my house and spray painted the large cold air return grate.
I kept my vents and painted them and now they blend perfectly with the ceiling.
No one has better ceiling treatments than Biltmore. Those Vanderbilt’s hired some amazing designers.
Great video Nick! I've been obsessed with changing the switch plates in my apartment, unfortunately here in Japan there aren't a lot of options besides plastic (off-white and beige). Also, here in Japan, every wall, including the ceiling, in every room is wallpapered - the only places that are not are the backsplash in the kitchen, the actual shower room (but not the wash/toilet area), and the tatami room. If you are lucky you will have a proper wooden ceiling the tatami room, but in newer builds that "wood" ceiling is actually plastic. The wallpapered ceilings here are unfortunately going for the popcorn look, although it is much more minimal than the real thing. I'd love to paint or have interesting mouldings, it's just not really possible here unless you own, build from scratch, or do extensive renos.
Light switch plates!!! Thank you. They drive me nuts. That dirty not white plastic gives me the heebie jeebies. I replaced all of ours as soon as we moved in. I also painted the ceiling of my office "Shadow" Benjamin Moore's color of the year 2017. Love it.
Nick, you do good work, critical thinking in design and created space by lighting and design. I think art in daily life.
Nick -Thank you! This is the best affirmation that we are doing things right. My SO and I have been working room by room on our house and we overhaul everything! Scrape the popcorn, update the paint and the floor replace the baseboards, lighting etc. Tall baseboards also hide damage to the drywall when you replace flooring. Replacing the outlets etc is actually one of my favorite steps since it means we are getting close to a final product. Even an updates 30 cent plastic switch plate looks so much better than the old yellowed ones that may be splattered with the old paint color. Or totally painted in the old paint color (yes, it's hideous).
one of your best videos yet! very specific, tactical suggestions that a lot of other design videos don't mention.
I miss my foot high skirting boards in the Edwardian flat I used to live in. They were awesome. Busy replacing all mine in the current house - downstairs complete, just upstairs to do now.
I completely agree with your inclusion of baseboards/moulding and I would specifically point out the huge impact that adding proper window casements can make. Most builder grade window casements just have 4 boring mitered pieces of home Depot trim. Switching that out with an architrave, sil/stool, and an apron is such a huge step up and it's easy/cheap to do yourself if you have the tools
Thanks for all your informative videos. I liked the fact that you touched on ceiling treatments. Would it be possible to make a presentation dedicated to ceiling treatments alone and how to tackle the design challenges of ceiling moldings for large open spaces when living and dinning are combined. And how to go about installing without removing the crown moldings already installed. Thanks!
My husband changed out all the door handles and matching metal door hinges and it made SUCH a big difference! They were just Home Depot brushed nickel with a small accent around the knob, but it feels so nice!
Another great video! thank you Nick! It's those little details that finish a space
In my townhouse a few years ago, I found paintable wood switch and outlet plates and painted them all to match the wall color. And when renting at a minimum I replace all the outlet covers with fresh clean white switch plates. A big difference for such a small change. I also change out all the cabinet knobs!,
Mouldings! Yes! You are embracing (albeit a little bit) traditional style! 😁 Fantastic advice, as always.
I know right?!? I love a touch of traditional actually! I actually love to take traditional elements and give them a modern twist!
I have just bought my first apartment. Small one, but my own. You are my beacon, my guru, I have applied all the advises you have given here on youtube (which I watch obsessively). I just love you!
I TOTALLY agree with you about the base boards and the cheapest switch covers. Makes the biggest difference. These were great additions that my hubby decided to upgrade and seriously, it looks so good and not like a "project-home". Project homes are those cheaply built cookie-cutter homes in Australia.
Nick, what do you think about painting the switchplates the same color as the walls? I saw it in a gift shop and thought it was interesting. Love the video, so much inspiration!!
I thought that was a good idea too, because I like a really minimal look. So I got paint-able switch plate and outlet covers for our master bedroom. Within weeks, the paint started scratching off, just from normal use. They looked good for about 2 weeks. I don't know if it's the cover's surface or the paint I used, but they didn't last unfortunately.
If you want it to disappear visually, paint it. Use a good brush or roller so you don't get brush marks.
I have used the paintable outlet covers to make them “disappear,” but I don’t think the surface would hold up on a high-touch item like a switch plate without getting grimy
You were just recommended on my home page and now I’m cuh-razy about your channel. I’m recommending it to anyone who has a lock of interest in home decor. Love your style, love your vibe. Thanks for your fast talking, informational, fun and upbeat videos.
So glad I watched to the end. After the 1st segment that was about baseboards, I expected the 2nd segment to be about crown moldings/mouldings. I think they are much more important to a design than baseboards since so much of them are covered with furniture, draperies, doors etc. You need to do a full segment on crown moldings. Loving your videos, Nick. Thank you.
I really enjoy your videos because of your sense of humor and great information. I’m learning so much from you. Thank you.
I did a refresh of a house once and all I did was replace the countertop in the kitchen, paint the kitchen cabinets, put in under-cab lights, replace the outdoor lights, and replace light switches. It sold in a day, multiple offers. When I bought it, it had sat on the market for a while. Light switches are important! Made a big difference to the feel of the house
Great video Nick! Have a major reno in my future and will implement each one of these points that I think are brilliant! Love your insightful and often humorous comments. 😃
We recently had our ceiling resurfaced, it looks so much nicer. My husband thought it was going to be a waste of money, but he sees the difference now. Also, switched our outlet and light switch plates out with ones you can pick up at Home Depot or Lowes that look more modern and have plates that cover the part with screws. Nothing fancy, but they look way nicer. I'm looking for a company now to make the switch to solid core doors and I'm working on convincing my husband on the moulding idea ; )
Thank you Nick! I have been thinking about adding moulding to my rental apt. I wish I can take out that nasty popcorn ceiling! I definitely changing the light fixture in my dining and bathroom. Thanks for the inspiration.
Thank you Nick; great info as always. I would like to hear more about ceiling medallions and how to work with them in terms of design style. I have several that all have lighting fixtures installed. I plan on switching out the lighting to suit a more modern aesthetic. Suggestions?
Thank you! Yeah, my Inch-and-a-half (?) builder grade 1983 California coast condo base boards visually suck. But I ignore them and have changed all my plates, hardware and handles instead! Not difficult. Be not afraid! . I’d like to add moulding at some point but I need to figure out a 45 degree angle first. Also painted my manufacturer doors. Added some pulled electrical to ceilings (tip - be sure your electrician carves the drywall cuts in a way you can place them back systematically. I learned the hard way! 😂) Popcorn ceilings: Messy but I did my lower ceilings on a stepladder with sprayed water and a scraper (scalpel maybe?) Messy but free. For my 18 foot ceilings I just hired painters who brought up scaffolding and I coached them on the technique. Nowhere near perfect in any of these cases but darn good enough for me for now! 💃😅
Love this!! I always use tall baseboards, right now I have 10 in tall ones and love it. When we have people come to our house, the one thing that gets the most compliments is our ceilings. We do them ourselves. They are white washed pine curbsiding material, they are beautiful and easy to do. All our outside patios have it also. We are getting ready to build another home and all the ceilings in it including an adjacent apartment will have those ceilings. We whitewash them before installing them just using a waterbased polyurethane and pure white pitment. In our MB, I did do a blue wash I concocted and it's beautiful. I also have started using frosted glass doors in the house for every room and I also make sure my doors always have 3 hinges instead of 2 and they always match the handles. I love the way the glass allows the light to move from room to room. These are just some of the things we do in every house we build. One last thing we do in all our houses we build is no ceiling is shorter than 9 feet.
My favorite video so far! Probably because all the details you mentioned are things I notice and appreciate when I see them done well. Thanks for making it! A perfect check list! We done!!!
Totally agree about ALL these details... the switch plates and outlets not updated in an construction update, refresh or reno always make me wonder 'what were they thinking?'!
Nick! I just redid the family bathroom. Got matte black switch plates to match the new faucet, then painted the (25 yr old unfinished pine) baseboards black. What a difference! ❤
Thanks so much for letting me know about Buster and Punch!
Just want to say in case it’s helpful to someone whose thinking of having copper light switches and sockets, that we are just having our house renovated and in a couple of rooms want copper switches and sockets, but told by electrician and builder you have to wait a year before we can put them on our walls, because plaster takes a year to dry and if you put copper sockets on they will corrode. I never realised it would have been an expensive mistake if they hadn’t told me!
Hey. This is so helpful. I never thought of things like the switchplates & drawer pulls. So small, but so impactful. Great video. Thanks Nick.
Popcorn ceilings if done right, is good for sound absorbing. I sliced the top of my hollow core doors and filled them with spray insulation. It really helps to block sounds from the kids rooms. It took a lot of time but well worth it.
Oh, I also couldn’t change out baseboards. 4600 square feet. 😗 I did board and batten millworker throughout the house. It brought a custom look to our walls, and took away the box look of a rooms. It was a good choice. Loving it.
I love that you go into so much detail. From a completely newbie point of view: what's the function of a baseboard if there is any? I wonder because it makes cupboards harder to fit against walls so it's bit of a hassle. I also wonder if there's a "right" way of doing moldings. Your tv seems to be in a space between two elevations. Is that always the aim? Would a picture hanging across moulding look weird? There's not much wall moulding tradition where I live and I was wondering about the "rules".
Great explanation!
Also OP if you are going for a minimalist look you can ask for a wall with no skirting and a shadow gap instead, but this will cost extra as it is more detailed work. There is also flush skirting as well as another option. I personally prefer the look of no skirting unless it is in a heritage property but I appreciate the practical and economic functions it provides.
If you have wood floors, they will expand and contract a few millimetres depending on season and humidity, so one needs a small gap between flooring and wall to allow for that and skirting/base boards to cover the gap.
Thanks for these wonderful explanations, makes a lot more sense now. And thank you for the minimalist option, I'll definitely look into that.
Thanks. 100% agree.
Going thru a kitchen remodel and baseboards are door casings are my focus today. Former homeowners changed out some of the baseboards and door casings with intricate curves in a MCM house. The worst part is some of the old baseboards and casings remain. Yes, a hot mess!
Thanks, Nick. Very helpful video. I’m adding “lipstick” to a 1974 basic condo, prior to selling it. Trying to add interest but balancing the cost of upgrades. Your moulding suggestion with a new paint colour will add dimension to distinguish this unit from the crowd, without intimidating the average buyer. Gracias