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 questions! By seeing what others have done and learning how to apply in my own space is one of the ways I’ve grown on my design journey. From tile grout to wood benches and front doors, I’m covering all the hot topics.

cozy reading corner with large windows, wicker chairs, and plant — my cozy winter corner

Update: It’s been a few years since I’ve answered these questions and even lived in this house (sad, I know!). However, I can say that many of these elements and sources are ones I’ve used over and over in other homes and projects since then. So, I can double down and recommend these!

kitchen with white backsplash tile, wood shelves, and black brackets — matte white kitchen backsplash tile

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

Beside my wood shelves, the next most common home design question about my kitchen is about the backsplash tile. I’m so glad you asked! It validates the hours I spent researching and driving around to find this tile. 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.

white kitchen renovation with gray countertop, white cabinets, and white backsplash 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 a 4″ x 16” Subway Tile. Much larger than traditional subway tile sizes. I have rejoiced in this decision every single day. I love this tile because it’s matte, neutral white wide, long, and offered a rare bull nose end piece.

Unfortunately, the exact style is no longer available. Believe, I cried more than a few years over this. However, I found a lovely matte tile in the same size from Arizona Tile. While it doesn’t have the bull nose finish piece, I did use it my next kitchen remodel.

bathroom remodel with white tile and black vanity

2. What is the best gray tile grout?

Along with the tile, I spent more time choosing tile 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 small bathroom. Luckily it’s more readily available now but I had a very specific look I wanted. In fact, I’ve used it again and again in follow up projects.

Because grout is such an important detail, I’m not surprised it’s one of the most common home design questions I receive. 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 a neutral gray grout that has looked good in every project. Over the years, I have recommended it to friends and clients without hesitation.

3. Where Did You Get Your Wood Bench?

Great question. This wood bench is a showstopper. Surprise – 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. Good news, I created a complete Easy Wood Bench DIY tutorial and shared my process for making it.

salvaged white oak — salvaged oak lumber slabs

Here’s a fun little peek at the wood slabs as they were drying and being prepared. I used the same white oak lumber as my kitchen shelves. This was such a rewarding project as I worked with my brother to salvage an oak tree that had fallen in a storm. I know that’s a kind of once in a lifetime thing so I’d recommend looking at local salvaged lumber yards for similar slabs. There are lots of options now!

entryway solid wood double front doors, metal railing, and basket and black decor — double front doors

4. Are Your Double Doors New?

Another popular home design question I get is about my solid wood front doors. Are they new you might ask. 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. Most concerning they were not hung properly and had been damaged over time making it nearly impossible to unlock from outside (I think the previous people just used the garage door for access).

entryway renovation with old solid wood front doors — entryway way half way through remodel with older doors

Had they been in good shape, I would’ve painted them. We worked with a carpenter who shared some options and ultimately went with new solid fir doors. So, 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.

5. Where Can I Find This Dresser?

So. Many. Questions about this beauty. And I know why, she’s pretty special! Well, I’m both happy and sorry to say she’s vintage and so not available to purchase. Driving to the coast one day, we stopped for a barn sale off the highway (because, I brake for all barn sales…). I found this vintage dresser there – a bit rough with a darker stain and a mix of colored faux crystal knobs.

living room with white walls, solid wood vintage dresser, and artwork — solid wood vintage dresser

However, it’s hard to pass up solid wood and I loved the leg shape. That’s something I look for when thrifting furniture, the other things are easier to change!). With a little sanding and knob replacements, she was in fine form. Now, this dresser is one of the most celebrate – and asked about, pieces in my home.

Final Thoughts

I hope this helps answer a lot of the home design questions about my house to help you create your own space. By sharing my thinking process and journey, others can learn from what I’ve done (and mistakes I’ve made). From tile grout to vintage dresser and backsplash, we covered a lot here but I’ve answered even more specific home questions in another post so check that out for more inspiration.

And while you’re at it, if you’re looking for easy and affordable home projects you can knockout in a weekend, check out my 9 Easy Home Updates All Under $200