Back 2 Basics: White Subway Tile

I can't tell you how many bathrooms I use a simple white subway tile in & I have been thinking...it is time to use this for a kitchen again. I always get caught up in the stunning stone, glass, mosaic, VERY expensive tiles for the backsplashes. Why not go back to the basic and the well priced item?

via De Giulio Kitchens

You can mix it up a bit by running one row vertically along the bottom, an easy way to jazz things up.

via MidWest Living

Even though this detail (that I am loving) is out of painted brick you could easily get the same effect with tile.

via My Ideal Home

Carry it throughout, even the hood. This allows the windows and amazing lighting to take center stage.

via Kitchen Lab

Love the use of the tile on this massive wall in the Kitchen of the Year by House Beautiful. The contrast to the cabinets and those killer Visual Comfort French Library Double Wall Lights...adore.

via House Beautiful

Again, so many things going on in this kitchen, this is a great example of how the simplicity of the backsplash helps to pull it all together. Anything else would have been a distraction.

via House Beautiful

Going up, up, up to the ceilings. Also, take a good look and notice the small square tiles that they used every 5 rows to add some character.

via Tumbler

If you want to have fun...use black grout, not white or grey.

via Pinterest

And this one, I just love everything about this image...L-O-V-E

via La Dolce Vita

I am keeping this in mind for Altadore, this might help those killer vibrant brushed bronze faucets by Kohler (which killed the budget) take center stage. Hope your weekend was wonderful!! Mel xo

Solid slab backsplash

One feature that the hubs and I are considering if we go with a white marble countertop in the kitchen that I discussed HERE is also using the same material as a backsplash, solid slabs to showcase the beauty of the material.

 Image via DecorPad

It works with the marble since is it has just the right amount of movement. Not too much like some granites can, it is a piece of art work just wanting to be admired.

Image via DecorPad

With the simple color pallet you are allowed to take notice of the cabinet details, lighting selection, and overall feel of the kitchen.

Image via HGTV.com

Even with wood it works, it doesn't have to be paired with an all white kitchen like most 

of the images that I found.

Image via Houzz

And this one is my all time favorite kitchens by Brook & Steve at Velvet & Linen. The marble takes centerstage without distracting you too much from the beautiful cabinetry, custom hood, ceiling detail, and dual islands *sigh*.

Image via Velvet & Linen

While the cost will be more I think this is one area where a splurge is appropriate. I, like most people spend most of my time in the kitchen and since it is an open concept plan to the great room I need it to have that jaw dropping wow factor. What are your thoughts, take it or leave it?? Have a fab day! Mel xo

Knock Knock

Thank you Backen, Gillam & Kroeger Architects for this amazing home in Napa Valley, at just over 10,000 Sq. Ft. I know that I can make it a nice cozy home. It will also accommodate all of my family, and that in itself is a feat. Enjoy this tour...

We can enjoy a bottle of Anomaly inside or by the fire on the patio, which would you prefer?

I love the rustic feel with the exposed wood beams and weathered ceiling, such a great environment for a game of Apples to Apples or Cranium.

I love this and I really have nothing else to add, except that I would love t create beautiful food in this kitchen surrounded by family & friends.

I love how the ceiling detail is carried through to the bathroom as well, and notice the Nanna Wall in the background, wait till you see what is there...

I think this is my all time favorite shower, no fancy shower heads and body sprays required here!

And here is what you will see as you depart the property from the rear view mirror (in a cute vintage Mercedes convertible), hope you enjoyed your time.

I love virtual entertaining, the main reason...I have nothing to clean up! Here is to a great finish to your week. Mel :)