Five years after completing construction on her family home near Prague, Czech actress, presenter, and influencer Nikol Leitgeb is reflecting on the building and furnishing process. Her assessment, shared recently on social media, offers a candid look at what worked, and what didn’t, as she and her family settled into their dream home. The insights are proving popular with those currently undertaking similar projects, offering a relatable perspective on the realities of homeownership.
Lessons Learned: From Walk-In Showers to Touch-to-Open Cabinets
Leitgeb’s initial vision for the house centered around maximizing natural light, incorporating natural materials, and creating a spacious kitchen – all within a modern and easily maintainable style. However, as she explains, even the most meticulous planning can’t fully prepare you for the practicalities of everyday life. The influencer’s recent video tour isn’t just a glimpse inside her home; it’s a practical guide for anyone building or renovating.
One of the first features Leitgeb identified as a misstep was the walk-in shower. Even as aesthetically pleasing, she found it decidedly impractical. “It’s nice, but it’s just terribly impractical. There’s water everywhere, it’s cold… no, it’s better to close yourself in, really,” she stated in the video. This highlights a common challenge in modern home design – balancing aesthetics with functionality.
Another design element she regrets is the use of “tip-on” cabinets, those that open with a simple press. According to Leitgeb, they often fail to function as intended. “It just doesn’t work very well. When you want to open them, they won’t open, and when you want to close them, they pop open,” she explained. This seemingly small detail underscores the importance of thoroughly testing hardware and fixtures before committing to them in a large-scale project.
The Kitchen: A Success Story
Despite some design disappointments, Leitgeb emphasized several aspects of her home that have proven successful. Chief among these is the kitchen, which she deliberately kept simple and uncluttered. “Just a simple kitchen without all the… stuff,” she said, suggesting that a minimalist approach can be a key to long-term satisfaction. A well-designed kitchen, free from unnecessary complications, remains a central element of a functional and enjoyable home.
She also highlighted the importance of large mirrors in the bathroom, acknowledging their impracticality – they require constant cleaning – but appreciating their ability to brighten and visually expand the space. This demonstrates a willingness to prioritize aesthetic benefits even when they come with added maintenance.
More Than Just Bricks and Mortar: The Importance of Family
In a lighthearted moment, Leitgeb addressed the biggest, and perhaps most rewarding, element of her home life: her children. When asked what she would add to a future home, she didn’t hesitate. “The kids… sure, it’s a little impractical, it’s expensive, and it requires maintenance, but I don’t regret it,” she said, referring to her sons, eight-year-old Mathias and four-year-old Tobias. This playful acknowledgement underscores the fact that a house is more than just a physical structure; it’s a home filled with life and love.
Leitgeb’s experience serves as a valuable reminder that homeownership is a continuous learning process. While careful planning is essential, it’s equally vital to be adaptable and willing to adjust based on real-world experience. Her honest assessment offers a refreshing perspective on the challenges and rewards of creating a comfortable and functional living space.
As Leitgeb and her family continue to enjoy their home in Lány, her insights are likely to resonate with anyone embarking on a similar journey. The lessons learned – from the pitfalls of walk-in showers to the enduring appeal of a simple kitchen – offer practical guidance and a dose of relatable humor for those navigating the world of homeownership.
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