So I've mentioned the backsplash a few times already, at least I know I keep muttering away "orange backsplash" from time to time when everything looks like a huge mess and nobody quite understands where I'm heading with this project. I keep telling everyone: the backsplash will pull it all together and it will read as a kitchen, rather than a cobbled-together grouping of furniture in a room where cooking takes place. See what I mean?
What I like about this pair of photos: everything has changed except the location of the microwave. I learned this (among many other things) from my mom: move stuff around and see where it works for you. The thing is, here: the location of the doors was what didn't work for me. And of course, the hideous Jed Clampett was in the way (remember that? That was only five weeks ago!)Well, we still have lighting to install and electrical to trim out. As I review the photos from over the years, I realize how the lighting is what changes the experience of the house more than anything. This room became so bright when I put all these white surfaces into it and moved the glazing just a bit. The new color on the walls is "Stone Harbor" I believe. It looks like shadow--the color of a Weimaraner, actually. But really what I was thinking about was the stone countertops that will replace the oh-so-economical white laminate (from IKEA, less than $10 a linear foot, and made in France to boot!) Laminate is cheap, easy to transport and install, and it ain't bad as a starter. In fact, with the right edge detail, it's just fine for most kitchens. I do think the recent real-estate boom has led us down the path of insisting on certain materials largely because the realtors call them necessary. Don't even get me started on the "stainless" appliance fad. Note, I do not have stainless. I don't particularly care for it, and I absolutely don't like it in this kitchen.
The white enamel stove is original to the house (c.1925.) It's a Detroit Jewel and I like it. It could use some work, but it throws out a nicer flame than the Viking, in my opinion, and the burner-covers are extremely handy. (detail photo forthcoming)
The old metal cabinets are white "enamel" too, so that pulls together with the fridge and the dishwasher. (p.s. I love love love the dishwasher. More on that soon.)
Well, thanks for reading. It has been too long since my last post. I was a little overwhelmed by all the mess, and then overwhelmed by the calm utility of this space. It actually works!
