Backsplashes that I Knew and Loved

Last weekend I went to my 10 year high school reunion. It was fun to see old friends and hear about what they are up to these days. One of my former classmates is in the process of remodeling her kitchen and we got on the topic of backsplash tile. Along with countertop selection, choosing backsplash material is one of the most impactful (aesthetic) decisions to make in a kitchen design.

 via Walker Zanger

There are so many options and the one you pick can shape the overall look of a kitchen. For example, the backsplash in our old house consisted of dingy, tumbled marble square tiles and I changed it to a clean, Carerra marble subway tile. That alteration made the space look sleeker and more sophisticated. As you can see below, we also painted the cabinets, upgraded the dishwasher to stainless, and had Absolute Black granite countertops installed. Even though all of those elements contributed to the improved outcome, the backsplash was key in setting the tone.

The infamous "before" shot....not my style!

Like most big decisions, it can be tough to pick, especially given the amazing/overwhelming selection of tile available. Lots of people choose to play it safe and stick with something neutral and classic like white subway tile (which is always a winner in my book).

 via More Design

But like I said, there are lots of fabulous options now which makes it tempting to step out of the comfort zone and be a little more daring. If I got to change my backsplash now, I'd probably pick this beauty from Studium, the Maharajah Stripe, a mosaic chevron design in Calacatta Tia and Thassos. I've rattled on about this before and of course, used it in the Knight Moves header so obviously I'm fixated on it!

I also like these designs from Ann Sacks:

Beau Monde - Ann Sacks

Obsidian - Ann Sacks

 Walker Zanger also has some fun options...

 

I LOVE these but I think they are for the floor...Walker Zanger needs to make smaller versions!

What is your take on backsplash tile? Do you prefer the area to be classic and understated or do you think it's a place for personality?

I'm probably somewhere in between, like this...

 via More Design

Ode to Chevron

You might have picked up on the fact that I love the chevron motif. It's bold, classic, and fun...plus it looks great in a variety of contexts. Time and time again I've lusted over zig zag goodies, so I figured a whole post dedicated to all things chevron was in order. It's such a happy pattern, don't you think?

Hector Throw by Missoni - Lumens

Calling Cards - Made by Girl

Chenille Rug ($11!!) - Kohl's

Missoni Towel - Unica Home

Maharajah Stripe Tile - Studium

Frames - Burke Decor

Hardwood floors

Cotton Blankets (pillows are available too) - Wildflower

Zigzag Rug - West Elm

Mug - Amazon

Navy Throw Pillow - Frontgate

Indoor/Outdoor Floor Pillow - Bed Bath Store

March on House Beautiful

After so many great interior mags have gotten axed over the past few years, I feel it necessary to applaud the work of the ones that are still around. The March issue of House Beautiful arrived at my house last night and I've already poured through it. It's the spring color issue and it's "All about BLUE." Here are some of my favorite bits and pieces:

My turquoise lamps are famous! Actually, these are Christopher Spitzmiller, which are super amazing, but way out of my price range. The HomeGoods versions do the trick for me.

 That chevron tile is killing me...I want it so badly!! It comes from Studium. 

 

Another lamp celebrity, my crystal lamp, but with a navy shade...

  

Love that Greek key fabric...it's St. Tropez in Pool by Schumacher.

  

That ivory tray table is a great buy from Kmart...a pair would be perfect as nightstands in a guest room. Of course it's out of stock right now!

 

All images courtesy of House Beautiful.