Month: January 2016

9 Ideas for Organizing the Bathroom Vanity

Written by Jenna on January 28, 2016. Posted in Organization.

Well we totally missed last weeks snowstorm that I know a lot of you were affected by and are still digging out from. Kinda crazy that upstate New York has less snow that DC…

What haven’t missed – or rather, avoided – is the nasty sick bug going around. Once again, another January has hit us hard with sickness and it’s the kind that lingers and seems to never leave. Unfortunately it’s got us all down. The last few weeks have been rocky, but I’m trying to keeping chugging forward with thoughts of warmer weather + sunnier days ahead. It’s the only think you can do, right?!

Anyway, I am happy to share that I have a new post up at Better Homes and Gardens.

If you’ve been busy decluttering and organizing since the new year hit, then I have a post for you…
Getting a hold on THE MESSY VANITY. I’ve got one, do you? Then here are 9 Easy Ways to Make Over a Messy Vanity.

I took away so much while putting this post together and I hope you will too.

Click to read the full article on >>> 9 Easy Ways to Make Over a Messy Vanity

Check out my bio page + all my articles on Better Homes and Gardens

More content coming soon to be featured on BHG.com!

Kitchen Renovation: Details

Written by Jenna on January 26, 2016. Posted in Decorating. 3 Comments on Kitchen Renovation: Details

I’m overwhelmed by the outpouring of kindness + sweet thoughts for the new kitchen space.

It being called, A HAPPY KITCHEN, was by far my favorite comment because that just completely + perfectly sums up the new setting. A happy space is exactly how I envisioned the new kitchen to look + feel.

As a whole, the kitchen from top to bottom is entirely new, and last weeks KITCHEN REVEAL post focused on the before + after, as well as the overall design & changes. But there is still so much more to tell… a follow up post to share the nitty-gritty details + thought-process of WHY & HOW the design came to be, had to be told…

When the planning process of the kitchen renovation began, I started by focusing on the big picture; the space as a whole. From there I put my efforts into spending time on the details + layers. This attention to the smaller elements is what really makes a space complete and unique.

Upon making the decision to change the layout & have the new cabinetry be white, I set out to find inspiration. Before putting together the mood board for the new space, I wanted to analyze + dissect other kitchens to see what elements I liked and didn’t like. With this process, along with my past experience designing client kitchens, here is a list I created as to what details were important and needed extra focus + attention:

> tile backsplash

> open shelving

> outlets

> cabinet hardware

> lighting

> color

> storage

With attention to detail in these 7 areas, I knew my kitchen would be set apart from the norm.

Here’s How…

1. TILE BACKSPLASH

The white subway tile I chose is probably the most common + least expensive tile out there. Yes, very ordinary. That’s okay though, because I was still going to set it apart from the others.

How? Grout and Layout.

Instead of choosing a grout color that coordinated with the tile (which would’ve been white), I chose to use a contrasting grout color. Lowe’s has a display with all their grout colors and with a sample of the island color in hand – a dark grey called Greyloft by Kraftmaid – I chose a grout color that matched. By choosing a like color to the island, this allowed the deep hue to carry through in other areas of the kitchen. The dark island color wouldn’t be a stand-alone in one spot but instead a common thread throughout.

The staggered / brick layout of the subway tile is Oh So Norm, BUT I set it apart by continuing the tile behind the hood, as well as up and around the window. Instead of stopping the tile at the line of the upper cabinets, I continued it up to heighten the space. Additionally, the tile was installed behind the open shelves, which makes the space feel larger.

>>> CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS ON THE TILE INSTALLATION

2. OPEN SHELVING

Since we’re on that subject, let’s jump right in… Open Shelving. Most of you would never think of open shelving in the kitchen. Who would want to display plastic cups + mismatched dishes?! Wrong my friends… My kitchen doesn’t have all open shelving. In actuality only a small portion of the space has open shelves. Like you, I have cups, plates, and a lot of other things that I want hidden. And those things are behind closed doors. BUT, I do have some nice dishes, pretty glasses, and colorful bowls. All perfect for display + easy access to grab.

Why open shelving? Shelves add depth, openness, and a way to introduce color. Look through your cabinets and figure out how many ‘nice’ things you have to display, then figure out how much open shelving is appropriate for your kitchen.

3. OUTLETS

Still on the subject of the backsplash, outlet locations are important to figure out during the design phase. More often or not, outlets are typically every 18-24″ apart and are positioned half way between the counter and the upper cabinets. So basically, they’re an eyesore smack in the center of the tile. Outlet placement can be daunting, but avoid the eyesore mistake by giving thought to the outlet placement BEFORE you renovate.

Moving the outlets lower, about 3″ above the counter, and to a horizontal position, will help keep them out of sight and in line with your appliance plugs. As an alternative, try one horizontal outlet on the backsplash for the appliances / items that sit permanent on the counter – think beforehand about where they’ll be placed – then add outlets to the underside of the upper cabinet for the temporary plug-in / take-out items.

The outlets in my new backplash can barely be seen…

And please always use GFCI outlets above countertop level to avoid electrocution!

Outlets in the island is another area of focus. You want + need outlets in the island (and they are required by building code), but it is important to place them in a pleasant looking place. Have a recessed panel on the side of the island? Be sure the outlet is centered and position it in the same orientation as the backsplash.

Aside from the major appliances – refrig, micro, hood – it’s important to think about what will be going where when the kitchen is finished. I knew I wanted to create a coffee station + charging station in the new pantry next to the refrigerator. With the specs of the cabinet – showing the heights – in hand, the contractor and I layed out the outlets to provide electric for our needs.

4. CABINET HARDWARE

Hardware (and lighting, which I’ll get to) is like the jewelry for an outfit. A black shirt + jeans are nice, but the outfit is set apart by the layers that are added. That is where hardware plays a huge part in a kitchen! White cabinets + White backsplash in a kitchen are pretty norm, but it was the details that were added that set it apart from others. I had this nutty idea about placing the cabinet hardware in the center of cabinet doors instead of at the side which is typical. Because many of the doors lined up with the drawers below, I had a feeling it was going to look stellar as a whole. In the end, it did!

I chose polished nickel for the modern cup pulls and they are bold. Against the basic, minimal door, they shine. Truly, the polished pulls shine and make a statement.

Doors are doors, make a statement with the hardware!

5. LIGHTING

I’m a lighting snob. I like big lights and I can not lie! that was corny… sorry.

Seriously though, big or small, lighting is important.

I had a difficult time with the lighting because I knew it would make or break the new space. I didn’t feel polished nickel lights (to match the cabinet hardware) would work well in our open concept home where the other lights are black / dark. I found these gorgeous statement-worthy pendants from Rejuvenation and hit place order. They took a few weeks to arrive and when they were installed, the kitchen looked truly complete.

For the pendant over the sink, I chose something that was different but that coordinated well with the oversized island pendants. This prism pentagon pendant was the right match.

6. COLOR

I’m a color person. I heart color. Yet everything was white. What? I knew when all was complete, the kitchen would come alive with the layers of color that I would add. From the dishes to glasses to artwork to food, this kitchen comes alive with the color that has been injected into it with all the layers.

7. STORAGE

The insides of the cabinets are truly just as important as the exterior. The insides of the Kraftmaid cabinets are filled with savvy storage components. Everything has a place. There is no question of what goes where…

These are a few favorites…

Full depth cabinet above the refrigerator with Vertical Dividers, perfect for trays, cookies sheets, and more…

Trash Bin + Recycling Pull Out… no more floating garbage can in the center of the kitchen.

Tilt Tray at the sink front to hold sponges + clothes, which eliminates sitting on the counter.

Full extension roll-out drawers in the base cabinets so from front to back, everything can be seen!

As you can see, the details are important and those details are what make up the whole to create something different. The details are what make the kitchen stand out of the norm. Most elements are typical and ‘most popular’ but it’s how they are mixed together that sets them apart.

One more post coming soon… the Resources of the kitchen. I’m sharing all the scoop of where I shopped!

If you want to see all the posts documenting the kitchen renovation, here they are from start to finish:
Wonderful White Kitchen Inspiration
Kitchen Remodel: Before + Plan of Action
Demo Day: Steps for Demolishing the Kitchen
Kitchen Progress: Staining Hardwood Floors
The Cabinets Arrive + Get Installed
Natural Quartz Countertops in the Kitchen
10 Countertop Materials to Consider for the Kitchen
Subway Tile Installation + Choosing the RIGHT Subway
Kitchen Backsplash Tile Options + Inspiration
Choosing a Paint Color + Wallpaper for the Kitchen and Dining Room
Kitchen Renovation: The Appliances
Dissecting the Details
Kitchen Renovation: REVEAL + RESOURCES

DISCLAIMER: THIS KITCHEN RENOVATION IS A COLLABORATION WITH LOWEâ€™S, KRAFTMAID, FRIGIDAIRE, AND HGTV HOME BY SHERWIN WILLIAMS. ALL OPINIONS + SELECTIONS ARE MY OWN WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE LOWEâ€™S DESIGN TEAM.

Kitchen Renovation: REVEAL + Resources

Written by Jenna on January 21, 2016. Posted in DIY, Kitchen, Kitchen Makeover, Kitchen Renovation. 15 Comments on Kitchen Renovation: REVEAL + Resources

In less than a month, we’ll be living in our home 6 years. 6 years. The fastest 6 of my life. More than double the time of any place we’ve lived before.

We moved here as a family of 3 and now we’re a family of 5 + a cute white little kitty. Life has changed so much and as much as our family + lives have evolved, so has the house we stepped in to – and almost walked away from – 6 years ago.

The shell that was a vacant house, has been transformed into a home. A chaotic, crazy, bustling HOME. Every surface has been touched. Walls has been repainted + wallpapered (some a few times over). Floors have been recarpeted + retiled. And most importantly our home is now adorned with key elements that show who we are, what we love, and where we’ve been. Our mark has been made.

The kitchen, the hub of our new house in 2010 seemed fine. The cabinets were in fine shape, the counters weren’t pretty but functional. A few months in, we changed the hardware + the sink, and called it done.

Until… 2 years later and I was itching to freshen it up. A $300 kitchen revamp + new appliances left us happy campers. We were in love. The do-it-yourself upgrade on a budget was perfect. At that moment it reflected us.

>>> TO SEE THE DIY KITCHEN MAKEOVER CLICK HERE

In the 3 year time gap from then to now, our lives have turned upside down – all for the good! When we bought our home, we had just came off a really rough patch with the economy affecting our jobs.

Thankfully things have changed a lot…

Fast forward… the Misters job has been stable & growing + I’ve been able to continue expanding my blog + business – designing LOTS of other peoples homes. Life has been good. Real good. And truly grateful. And the time had come for US to get the kitchen of our dreams. It was finally our turn. Surreal, but true. I wanted – and needed – a gourmet kitchen of my own. And here it is. Finally complete and still pinching myself with excitement.

WELCOME to our kitchen

This kitchen could not have been possible without the assistance + backing from my friends at Lowe’s, Kraftmaid, and Frigidaire. I’ve collaborated with Lowe’s countless times over the years and I am blessed that they never ask questions and always believe. I strive to execute outside-of-the-box creations which in turn inspires you, my amazing & dedicated readers. That’s what I’m here for. That’s what I do… Inspire. And that’s what I hope the take away is with the new kitchen space I designed.

Enough chit-chat, come on in…

Where to begin, is the question…

The inspiration for the color palette came from a piece of art. I snagged this canvas from Ikea last year and at the time it was meant for the living room, which I had been in the process of remodeling. I loved the white background layered with bold pops of color – yellow, blue, raspberry, green, turquoise.

I was drawn to it’s simplicity, yet intricate focus on detail. And that’s exactly the vision I wanted the kitchen to evoke – clean, simple, and BOLD.

This was the mood board I created…

… And months later, I feel I’ve achieved just that. I’m content. This new kitchen truly evokes everything I am and everything my style is.

From edge to edge, here it is…

The cabinetry in the new kitchen is by Kraftmaid, one of several cabinet companies displayed at Lowe’s. I chose the Kraftmaid line of cabinets for a range of reasons. Not only does Kraftmaid have an extensive selection of cabinet styles + colors, their attention to detail is exquisite, as well as the craftmanship of their product. When I started the design process for this renovation, I was quite impressed with all the â€˜bells & whistlesâ€™ that they offer (many of which come standard with their cabinetry) + the variety of storage solutions they offer.

More on the details of the kitchen + cabinetry in a post coming soon.

When the process of the remodel began, the intention was to remove the soffit above the upper cabinet and the soffit above the window. Unbeknownst to us in the beginning stages, the soffit above the window is a beam that is holding up the back of the house and couldn’t be removed – obviously. What we WERE able to do was have a higher ceiling in the window section, which allowed the new subway tile to continue up and around the entire window, which really heightens the space.

Instead of having a lower cabinet under the soffit, it was decided that open shelves would be best – for aesthetics + function.

I love the open + airy feel that the 10″ deep thick shelves give to this section of the kitchen. Plus the 3″ thick shelves are ultra beafy (I confirmed this many times with the contractor) so they hold all the large dishes + small plates and bowls. Super easy to access and grab.

On the other side of the window, the left side, there are two additional shelves with decorative corbels. These shelves are only about 7″ deep and can’t hold as much weight, so they’re perfect for glasses + smaller light-weight bowls. Again, so easy to access.

As we continue around the kitchen, the range + exposed hood are flanked by 2 closed upper cabinets that now are full height to the ceiling and hold the glasses (left cabinet) and pantry food (right cabinet).

Continuing the subway tile backsplash up the wall behind the hood was an absolute. Again, another way to heighten the overall space and not have the wall start / stop at a certain point.

In the new kitchen, the refrigerator moved about 18″ to the left to create a full depth pantry that touches the side wall. Ahhh, it’s wonderful. Singing-from-the-hilltops incredible! I love it because there is so much storage.

The 24″ deep pantry is the same depth as the refrigerator + cabinet above and holds some of the small appliances like the coffee maker + toaster. The coffee maker sits on a roll-out shelf and there is an outlet in the cabinet back, which makes mornings so easy for brewing our cup of joe.

Also in the bank of pantry cabinets is a charging station for our various electronics including the cell phones, ipads, etc. Another outlet was installed for these components in the back of the cabinet and a grommet was drilled in the back of the drawer for the wires to pull through.

Having a ‘home’ for all these kitchen essentials has really cleared off the counters to leave open space for what a kitchen is really used for… cooking.

Talking about cooking, I basically prep + do everything for our meals on the island. The Island. The huge island that I always dreamed of and still can’t believe I have.

It’s wonderful.

The Kraftmaid cabinetry on the perimeter cabinets is Dove White and on the island is a deep + rich grey/blue hue called Greyloft. Never having an island before, I didn’t know what to do with myself when it was installed. It provides so much storage and in the island is also where the microwave now sits.

On the far end of the island that faces the living room, I chose to have open shelves instead of closed cabinetry. I thought it would be the perfect spot for my many cookbooks + basket storage for dishclothes, cloth napkins, etc.

Having open shelving also allows the ability to bring color into the kitchen. Instead of the solid, one-tone look of cabinets, open shelving adds depth and a way to introduce color.

Another way to bring in color amongst the sea of white was on the walls. The old kitchen paint color was yellow and for the new wall paint I chose a light gray. Wrong choice. In the end, I went back to yellow, but this time the sunshine yellow color is a completely different hue – much more lighter & brighter.

And check out the colorful + bold wallpaper in the dining room. It adds a gorgeous focal point to the overall open space.

The marble-looking countertops are quartz and truly complete the clean + simple aesthetic of the kitchen.

And let me not forget to discuss the lighting…

I am a major light-aholic! Lighting is SO IMPORTANT. Lighting makes a statement and with my home, I wasn’t going to skimp.

Go Big or Go Home!

Being completely honest, I had a difficult time choosing the right lighting. With the cabinetry hardware being polished nickel, I questioned the lighting style + finish. In the end, I chose these amazing matte black dome style pendants from Rejuvenation for over the island.

And for the light above the sink, I decided on this open style glass pendant from Shades of Light.

They are both amazing, compliment each other perfectly, and overall I am in love with the many different finishes in this kitchen.

There you have it…

We have to look at a before & after comparison. Check out how far this space has come in 6 years…

Do you see how / why I’m in disbelief that this makeover really happened?!

Here’s another walk down memory lane view…

This has been a strenuous – what big renovation isn’t? – but wonderful renovation process. I won’t lie, I’m glad it’s DONE, but I can’t ask for anything better. And that is a project labeled SUCCESS.

RESOURCES

I’ve showed you what the kitchen looks like, and now it’s time to share the scoop on the sources…

Cabinets
Perimeter Cabinets: Kraftmaid, color – Dove White, door style – Cayden
Island: Kraftmaid; color – Greyloft, door style – Cayden

Appliances
Frigidaire: Smudge-Proof Stainless

Countertop
Quartz: Silestone, color: Lagoon

Cabinet Hardware
Kraftmaid, Fordham Bin Pull, Polished Nickel

Backsplash
Tile: Allen + Roth 3×6 white subway tile; Grey grout color

Paint Color
Wall Paint: HGTV Home by Sherwin Williams, color – White Citrus, finish – satin

Pendants over Island
Rejuvenation, Haleigh Wire Dome Pendant 12-inch, oil rubbed bronze

Pendant over Sink
Shades of Light, Clear Glass Prism Pentagon Pendant

Sink + Faucet
Lowes, Vigo 32″ x 19″ Stainless single-basin Undermount with Industrial Faucet

Wallpaper (in dining area)
Anthropologie, Frosted Kaleidoscope

Accessories
Pineapple Art – Hobby Lobby
Blue Geometric Rug – Target
Sisal Runner – Target
Bowls – Crate & Barrel, Homegoods
Cutting Boards – World Market
Yellow Industrial Barstools – Target

I think that wraps it up. Something you liked and want details on… email me!

How to Get the ‘Fixer Upper’ Look in Your Home

Written by Jenna on January 18, 2016. Posted in Decorating. 3 Comments on How to Get the ‘Fixer Upper’ Look in Your Home

I’m mildly obsessed with the show Fixer Upper. Who isn’t? I haven’t met anyone that doesn’t love the hugely popular HGTV design show.

The farm.

The goats.

That house.

Her gorgeous design style (and her boots).

His humor + wit.

Their love + playfulness.

Come on, it’s all perfection!

PHOTOS VIA: DESIGN MOM, HOOKED ON HOUSES, POP SUGAR, HGTV.COM

Joanna and Chip – yes, we’re on a first name basis – are over-the-top outgoing, down to earth, and just plain ole’ REAL – if that’s not how they are in real life, they’re incredible actors. They just click with viewers and I, like most of you, become 110% wholeheartedly engaged as soon as I turn on the show. Even my kids love it.

BUT ASIDE from the couples fun loving personality, their design style is equally simple, chic, clean and most important of all, meaningful. They truly create homes that their clients – and us viewers – drool over.

To score a meeting with the fabulous design duo might be tricky, unless you live in their neck of the woods in Texas, but that doesn’t mean you can’t achieve a similar aesthetic in YOUR HOME.

You too can get the ‘fixer upper’ look. Here are 5 ways to do it…

Let’s break it down…

NEUTRAL HUES

Once Chip finishes the shell, Joanna swoops in to put her magical touches on the interiors to truly make the renovated house into a home. Most of the spaces that Joanna creates are a neutral color palette using varying shades of taupe, beige, gray, cream, white, and maybe a few accents of green and/or blue are thrown in. This chic, yet comfortable farmhouse, industrial aesthetic that she creates feels modern, but lived-in. It feels new, yet old.

The beauty of choosing a neutral palette throughout the home is to create flow + cohesiveness. Each room isn’t just a room on it’s one, but the multiple spaces become one; it’s the whole versus just the part. Layers of color can be introduced upon the neutrals, which can easily be swapped out with the changing seasons & holidays. But overall, neutral is quiet & serene. With the hustle + bustle of our lives, a calm palette is what’s needed to relax & rejuvenate.

Choosing a neutral color palette can be challenging because there needs to be substance in other ways. And that oomph is brought in through texture, which leads to the next idea for getting the fixer upper style…

VIA BHG.COM

TEXTURE

When using neutrals, texture is a must to introduce balance + depth.

So what does that mean & how do you do it? Add texture using pillows made of differing materials. Introduce chippy, distressed furniture. Maybe something with a glaze overlay. Bring in elements from the outdoors. Try a large wood bowl on the dining table or a rustic sign from a local vintage shop. Dimensional items add interest and texture will balance the neutral.

VIA BHG.COM

ORGANIC ELEMENTS

From potted plants in a vase resting on a book to an entire greenhouse in the center of the home, Joanna consistently designs spaces introducing organic elements from the great outdoors. Whether using reclaimed wood to create a kitchen island or hanging floating wood shelves on a wall paired with industrial plumbing pipe, bringing the outdoors in is a huge component if trying to achieve the fixer upper look.

VIA BHG.COM

WORDS

From their own home to their clients homes, the Gaines duo consistently incorporates sayings, signs, quotes, and everything in between with words.

Words are powerful. Words make a statement. And in the homes they create, words equal meaning.

HOME DESIGNED BY JOANNE + CHIP GAINES, VIA HGTV.COM

VIA LIZ MARIE BLOG

HOME DESIGNED BY JOANNE + CHIP GAINES, VIA HGTV.COM

THE DETAILS

The most important and often the most challenging part is pulling it all together with the details. From lighting to wall decor to accessories, the details are what pull it together to make a home complete. Joanna has impeccable taste + an incredible eye to add just enough to blend the new with the old. Elements that she introduces are meaningful and collected.

A house doesn’t become a home overnight. Take your time. Enjoy the hunt. Be inspired. Be creative. Have fun. Add in aged elements amongst the new + sleek. Create a space that is liveable + comfortable, yet not stark + bare. Don’t be afraid. What’s the worst that can happen if you put a nail hole in the wall? Make mistakes and learn from them – I’ve made plenty.

I adore this quote that Joanne shared, “I like to encourage women to always remember that their home is a reflection of their hearts and of their families, not a magazine or like someone elseâ€™s lifestyle. Keep it true to who you are. Itâ€™s important you love your home and that your children are inspired by it. I learned in our recent move that itâ€™s not about the curb appeal or amenitiesâ€¦itâ€™s about the spaces you create and who you create them for.”

So true!

VIA BHG.COM

HOME DESIGNED BY JOANNE + CHIP GAINES, VIA HGTV.COM

What makes the fixer upper style different?

As I was gathering inspiration for this post, I realized what sets the fixer upper style apart. Even though the overall spaces Joanna designs are neutral, they are so engaging, warm, and full of life. They evoke a sense of welcoming – exactly what a home should feel. New furniture is mixed with old. Modern blended with vintage. Function integrated with aesthetically beautiful.

Joanna’s style is not really unique, yet it totally is because of how it all comes together to read as one. It’s not about the individual items in the room, but instead how each item is brought together to create the whole. Her compositions are just simple, thoughtful, and meaningful.

20 words that describe the fixer upper style

Simple

Clean

White

Texture

Eclectic

Industrial

Shiplap

Farmhouse

Metal

Wood

Serene

Old

Organic

Aged

Rustic

Meaningful

Family-Friendly

Welcoming

Dramatic

Calming

I truly enjoyed putting this post together – more so than I thought I would – and dissecting the aesthetic of a designer I truly admire (and kinda want to be – yes, I’d love to have goats and live on a farm in a big ole farmhouse!). So many of you love the show Fixer Upper, as do I, but I think we are not only drawn to the gorgeous homes + beautiful rooms that are created, but the whole package of the Gaines pair.

Are y’all ready to see your fixer upper?

VIA HGTV.COM

Kitchen Renovation: Paint + Wallpaper

Written by Jenna on January 13, 2016. Posted in DIY.

You know if we’re at the point of talking about paint, it has to almost be complete.

That’s right… we are mere days away from wrapping up the kitchen renovation and I still can’t believe it’s real. When I look over to our kitchen area and my eyes see an entire new space, I want to cry. It’s so good!

One challenge I had when creating the plan of action for the kitchen was the paint color for the walls. After living with the mustardy-yellow for 5 years, I new light + neutral was the right direction – but then along the way my thoughts changed. keep reading…

This is the old color.

The first floor of our home is an open concept plan, so basically it’s one room that leads to the next, that leads to the next. There has always been a different paint color in each room, which I feel defines each of the spaces bringing uniqueness and character.

Creating definition, but at the same time a flow with various paint colors can be challenging, but if a color palette is set that works well together, the result can be gorgeous.

Of course, that’s what I was striving for >>> VARIATION + FLOW

THE PAINT STORY

After the kitchen cabinets were installed, the Lowe’s independent contractors got to work on painting the kitchen + dining room walls because it’s one large open space.

I chose a paint color that was a light grey tone. It was a pretty hue, but once all the walls were covered, I knew it wasn’t right. Because the kitchen flows straight to the family room that also has grey-toned walls, the definition that I wanted to achieve was gone.

Big Mistake – eek.

What to do? Leave it + live with it for a while?

I knew leaving it wasn’t the answer. After a few days, of living with it, I chose a new color. It was the first time ever that I got small color sample pods to put on the wall. It was the right decision and seeing the colors at various times throughout the day was key to choosing the best paint hue for the space.

Color Change…

As soon as the ‘new, new’ color went up, I felt at peace. Yes, that’s it. And who knew, back to yellow – but a very different hue of yellow – would be the right color?!

For the walls in the kitchen + dining room, I chose to use the color White Citrus HGSW1237 by HGTV Home by Sherwin Williams, which is available at Lowe’s. The sheen is eggshell (one step up in sheen from flat) and I used their Showcase line of paint.

The color on the wall is just gorgeous and brings all the spaces together. It’s not very far off from the last yellow paint color, but at the same time, it feels so new + fresh. To sum it up, this White Citrus paint color is a light buttery + sunny hue with subtle green undertones.

Sherwin Williams has always been a favorite paint of mine to use. The quality is like no other. I’ve used a lot of paint in my day, and have come across a lot I will never use again. When I was introduced to the HGTV Home collection by Sherwin Williams, I was intrigued because it was available at Lowe’s, a place I always shop. So the big question I had… Is the quality the same as the Sherwin Williams brand it’s always been or did they ‘change the formula’ for the big box store?

I had the opportunity to speak with a rep for Sherwin Williams, who has worked with them for over a decade and he assured me the quality is the same and their collaboration with Lowe’s was a ‘next step move’ to continue their growth and brand awareness to a new market. Basically, they want to reach even more people and by being in Lowe’s (versus just their own stand-alone store), they hope to do that!

I was skeptical about the quality, but I will say I had a great experience using the Showcase line of HGTV Home paint. It went on smoothly with a roller AND a brush. Most paint takes 2, maybe 3 coats, to get full coverage on the wall, but this paint went on in one coat yet it wasn’t thick and goopy. Of course, I went over it with a 2nd coat, but it really wasn’t needed.

THE PAINT RESULT

The yellow hue defines the kitchen + dining room space, yet flows with the neutral colors in the family room beyond…

Next to the kitchen is the living room / office which is a deep navy hue, and the yellow works beautifully with that as well…

THE WALLPAPER

I heart wallpaper and really wanted to use it somewhere in the new kitchen space. At the same time, I always wanted to define the bay area in the dining area with a different paint color.

How about ditching the paint idea and instead add wallpaper in the bay nook? YES, perfect solution.

I found this incredible bold + colorful wallpaper from Anthropologie. The rich colors of orange, blue, yellow, gray, raspberry perfectly summed up all the colors in my home… I had to have it!

Once it was delivered a few days later, I got to work.

I primed the walls first.

Then installed the wallpaper which took about 3 hours total for this bay area.

Want to know how to hang wallpaper? Check out these WALLPAPER TUTORIALS

Hanging a Bold Wallpaper in the Bathroom

How-To Hang Wallpaper Like a PRO!

How-To Hang Wallpaper using Paste (in the powder room)

I’ve shared enough wallpaper tutorials, so I’ll spare you the details of the process, but this is the result…

And there you have it. Mistakes were made. Sleepless nights were had (well kinda), but the Paint + Wallpaper ARE DONE!

Another checkmark on the to do list. Next up are the final details and then the reveal…

DISCLAIMER: THIS KITCHEN RENOVATION IS A COLLABORATION WITH LOWEâ€™S USING HGTV HOME BY SHERWIN WILLIAMS. ALL OPINIONS + SELECTIONS ARE MY OWN WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE LOWEâ€™S DESIGN TEAM.

Kitchen Backsplash Tile Options + Inspirational Ideas

Written by Jenna on January 7, 2016. Posted in Decorating.

Yesterday’s post was filled with tips + useful information on choosing the right subway tile. It’s amazing how many different styles + colors there are to choose from, so hopefully with the insight from my personal experience scouring the tile stores for our kitchen renovation, you are armed with a few helpful tools.

Aside from subway tile, there are a gazillion other tiles for the kitchen backsplash. It can surely get overwhelming when standing in a tile store trying to choose something that fits your aesthetic + budget AND something that will be classic enough to “live” for years to come.

Here I am, coming to your rescue. I’ve done the work for you.

I’ve rounded up 12 tiles that are perfect for the kitchen. They are all classic + beautiful + simple + chic…

click for sources:
white backsplash tile
artistic ceramic patterned tile
stainless steel mini subway tile
grey stone mosaic tile
arabesque white tile
marble subway tile
stone herringbone tile
river rock pebble tile
carrara marble honeycomb tile
tumbled natural stone tile
penny tile
glass + stone horizontal mosaic tile

Aren’t those 12 incredible tile options for the kitchen?!

The first tile, 3 x 6 white subway, is what I chose for my kitchen backsplash and I love the classic look but with a twist since I paired it with dark grout to give it a modern edge.

MORE INSPIRATION

Want more backsplash inspiration?

Check out these Incredible Kitchens…

via Better Homes and Gardens

Eclectic kitchen with mini glass tile backsplash, client project of mine

via Better Homes and Gardens

Stunning Stained Kitchen, client project of mine

via Better Homes and Gardens

Kitchen Designed by me, featured in KBMO.

via HGTV

via Hi Sugarplum

via Just a Girl and Her Blog

And there you have it! Feeling inspired? I hope you are.

FINDING ‘THE ONE’

There are so many options for backsplash tile, it can be overwhelming honing in on THE ONE.

Start out looking at kitchen spaces for inspiration via Pinterest and magazines. Once you have a good collection (about 15), go through each to see if there is a common thread. Are you gravitating towards a certain style and/or color? Is it subway or glass or metal?

Once you can pinpoint what you like, then determine the size that would be the best proportion for your space. Decide on a color range. Do you prefer classic white or would a tile with varying shades of blue be best?

After you have the overall idea for the type of tile that fits your style + kitchen aesthetic, the search begins to find the perfect tile for your backsplash. Check out online sources + tile shops in your neck of the woods.

Subway Tile Kitchen Backsplash Installation

Written by Jenna on January 6, 2016. Posted in DIY. 3 Comments on Subway Tile Kitchen Backsplash Installation

We’re 6 days in to the new year and I finally have a post up – HAPPY NEW YEAR.

My biggest personal project ever closed out 2015, AND the same project is kicking off 2016…

THE KITCHEN.

It’s almost complete. I’m days away from sharing the big reveal, but before that I’ve been excitedly awaiting to share what tile I chose for the backsplash + the process for installation.

Check out the new + classic + gorgeous subway tile now adorning the kitchen backsplash…

Now to the details of what I chose for our kitchen renovation…

When the I created the PLAN OF ACTION for the kitchen remodel, I knew subway tile was the best choice because it’s not only affordable, but timeless + clean + the perfect compliment to our new minimalist quartz countertops.

Once the decision was made to move forward with white subway, the search began for the perfect tile.

And like paint, white is not just plain ole’ white.

In the end, I chose the beautiful 3 x 6 white subway by Allen + Roth at Lowe’s, then complimented it with charcoal colored grout.

You can’t ever go wrong with white subway tile as it’s classic and works with all style kitchens. BUT, there with so many subway tiles to choose from, it can be challenging to pin point the best for the setting.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SUBWAY TILE

Here are some helpful tips for choosing the RIGHT subway for the project…

SIZE

The typical size for subway tile is 3″ x 6″, but with the vast selection of natural and man-made tiles, comes a huge variation in size availibility. From mini tiles, around 1″ x 2″, to larger proportioned tiles around 4″ x 12″ +, size matters.

Choose a subway size appropriate for the project by looking at how much area will be covered with the tile. For small tile areas, smaller to medium sized tiles are best, where larger tiles will beautifully compliment larger, more open areas.

COLOR

If you’re looking for a white subway tile, not all whites are white. When I started the process of searching for white subway tile, I was so surprised how each manufacturers white looked so different. Some have more yellow undertones, where others are more blue.

I chose white subway tile by Allen + Roth because it was a true white and it looked closest to the Kraftmaid Dove White cabinetry that was chosen. Others that I looked at were too yellow and when next to each other, the two surfaces wouldn’t have blended well.

LAYOUT

I chose to layout + install the subway tile in the most classic way, which is staggered, but there are many other ways to layout subway tile to create an interesting + unique pattern. Try herringbone or vertical or cross hatch or stack bond.

via a beautiful mess

COST

Typical of most tile, there is a range of pricing for subway tile, but it’s one of the most least expensive style tiles. Cost comes down to the quality of the tile, but with most, it won’t break the bank.

GROUT

The grout color really doesn’t have to do with choosing a subway tile, but the grout color that is chosen will make your tile come alive. As with anything, there is a range of color choices for grouts. Have a white subway, white is the safest choice. Want to be dramatic and have your backsplash stand-out? Try a darker hue, like I did…

White subway tile might seem like a ‘Safe Tile’, but with the right size, color, and layout, this timeless tile can look unique to create a one-of-a-kind, stand-out kitchen.

INSTALLATION

Once the counters were installed in early December, we were ready to get crankin’ on the backsplash.

I’ve tiled many projects before, but I was happy and willing to have our contractor handle the tile installation to keep the kitchen remodel process moving along. At this point being 6 weeks in, we were READY TO BE DONE!

The contractor started the tile installation at the sink, since that is the center point of the window on the overall wall.

From that point, the tile was installed on either side of the window – there were a lot of cuts!

Because the subway tile is ceramic, it was very soft and easy to cut. A tile cutter was perfect for the job and since it’s mid-winter, it was a blessing to be able to cut indoors.

Once the tile was all installed, which took about 2 days, it was time to grout. As I mentioned above, I chose a charcoal color for the grout to give a beautiful contrast + pick up the color of the dark gray island.

I had never used dark grout before and it was incredibly messy when applied on to the white tile!

After cleaning the tile surface many times of the gritty dark grout, it resulted just as I had hoped and honestly, better!

from this…

to this…

At the only corner of the kitchen, I chose a vertical pencil liner to finish the edge. It looks so good and pulled together!

And then it was complete.

Once the grout was dry – within a day – we were able to install the open shelves + add the dishes.

Eek, it’s almost complete.

Here’s a peak…

More to come soon!

In the meantime, if you want to retile your kitchen NOW with subway or want to use this post as a resource for the future, save it or pin it…

What do you think of subway tile? Yay or Nay for the kitchen?

Tomorrow on the blog, I’ll be sharing 11 other tile fool-proof favorites for the backsplash. Don’t miss it!

DISCLAIMER: THIS KITCHEN RENOVATION IS A COLLABORATION WITH LOWEâ€™S USING KRAFTMAID CABINETRY. ALL OPINIONS + SELECTIONS ARE MY OWN WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF KRAFTMAID AND THE LOWEâ€™S DESIGN TEAM.