

Of course, cost is also a factor in any renovation decision I’ve ever made. What’s the point of doing it if it’s not going to be a little extra-special? So this time around, I wanted to attempt something with the same spirit as humble subway tile but different enough to feel fresh and interesting and a little extra-special. Aside from the modesty factor, I also wanted the tile to feel consistent with the age of the home, which frankly doesn’t leave a ton of options! Subway tile-pretty much THE historically accurate option for old kitchens”“is easy and inexpensive of course (and I’d argue pretty timeless, even though it gets referred to as a “trend”!), but I feel like I’ve been there, done that. When it comes to tile, this feels like a particular challenge with tile because there is SO MUCH GOOD TILE out in the world, and particularly at Lowe’s where I can get SO MUCH GOOD TILE that actually fits in my budget. I’m so pleased with how it’s turning out, and one of my favorite parts is that I finally had a chance to try out a tiling idea that’s been kicking around in my head for years!Ĭhoosing materials and finishes for a house like this one is tricky! I want it to be beautiful, of course, but it would feel weird to get too fancy or glitzy…it’s such a modest house and it just can’t pull it off. The Bluestone Cottage kitchen is barreling fast and furious toward completion! I’ve been imagining this space for so long that it feels especially surreal to actually be standing in it. Thank you, Lowe’s, for meeting the moment and doing the right thing.

This post is in partnership with Lowe’s! Thank you for supporting my sponsors, who embraced my decision to delay the planned publication of this post last week to help make space for the voices that need to be heard during this challenging and tragic time for this country.
