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Your Home Design Questions Answered- Part 2

A while back I answered some of the most common questions about my home, well guess what? There’s more! I love sharing my design journey along with what projects I’ve tried and have compiled another round of your home design related questions! 

cozy reading corner home design
my cozy winter corner

Home Design Questions Answered

kitchen backsplash tile
matte white kitchen backsplash tile

1. What kind of kitchen backsplash tile did you use?

Let me tell you, there are updates in this house I chose too quickly (and have learned to deal with regret) and there are others where I gave it considerable thought. The kitchen backsplash tile falls into the well thought out category.

home design questions about kitchen tile
long white subway tile

In fact, I spent countless hours researching, driving to different stores, comparing samples, debating choices until I finally decided on the 4 x 16” Emser Subway Tile in Matte White. I have rejoiced in this decision every single day. 

best gray tile grout
neutral gray tile grout

2. What is the best gray tile grout?

Along with the tile, I spent more time choosing grout than I’d care to admit. I drove 30 minutes out of the way for this specific grout and used it both in the kitchen and the power room. 

I probably could’ve been as careful with all of my decisions, but let me tell you, Mapei Warm Gray is the perfect gray grout. It’s not blue or cool or too dark. It is neutral and wonderful. I have recommended it to friends without hesitation. 

wood bench DIY
oak wood bench

3. Where Did You Get Your Wood Bench?

Actually – I made it! Every time I share my office space on Instagram, I receive so many questions and comments about this bench! And it’s such a special piece, I’m glad that others love it too. 

salvaged white oak
salvaged oak lumber slabs

Using the same lumber as my kitchen shelves, I took a slab from the salvaged oak tree and added bench legs. Seriously! I shared a complete Easy Wood Bench DIY tutorial and shared my process for making it.

solid wood double front doors
double front doors

4. Are Your Double Doors New?

Yep, they are one of the first things I changed when we moved in. The original doors screamed 1970s (not in a good way) and were really dark and foreboding. Had they been in good shape, I would’ve painted them. But, unfortunately, they were not high quality, had sustained some damage and were not hung properly. 

entryway way before
entryway way half way through remodel with older doors

Enter, new solid wood doors. I jumped on the chance to add more light and opted for the 4 window panel. I kept it consistent with other areas of our home and added matte black hardware

vintage dresser
vintage wood dresser

5. Where Can I Find This Dresser?

So. Many. Questions about this beauty. And I know why, she’s pretty special! Driving to the coast one day, we stopped for a barn sale off the highway (because, I brake for all barn sales…). She was a bit rough with a darker stain and a mix of colored faux crystal knobs. 

solid wood vintage dresser
solid wood vintage dresser

However, it’s hard to pass up solid wood and I loved the leg shape (I also look for the shape of furniture when thrifting, the other things are easier to change!). With a little sanding and knob replacements, she was in fine form.  

Not feeling lucky with treasure hunting? This dresser seems pretty similar!

Read More: Home Design Questions – Part 1

And if you’re looking for more affordable home projects, check out my 9 Easy Home Updates All Under $200