My pride and joy!

Ah, my pride and joy. Is this where you expect me to talk about my kids, husband, maybe my dog. Nah! I’m talking about my favorite house project to date - our fireplace!

When we bought our house - it was like a 1980’s museum. Every single item, intact and in pretty darn good condition. Parquet floors, white carpet and all OAK everything!

The fireplace was framed in oak, with large oak shelves on either side. The minute I saw it I hated it I knew it had potential! This old house had LOTS to tackle, so I didn’t get to the fireplace right away. Hindsight, I’m sort of glad, because it gave me a chance to really think about what I wanted to do.

Finally it was time. I started with tile samples, and brought home quite a few, of all styles. It was important to me that the fireplace, such a focal point in the house, was both fun and also neutral. I always try to avoid “trends” so I needed something that would stand the test of time, and carry the fireplace through another 40 years in this house.

Enter, my pride and joy. THE TILE: Arto Brick, Arabesque 8C in Early Gray. It was LOVE at first sight! These handmade cement tiles were not the cheapest selection - but let me tell you - they were worth every penny! I think it’s important to ‘splurge’ on certain items, even in small doses, when they will lend a great impact to your space.

We topped off the tile with a new mantle, a hand selected piece of reclaimed wood, and of course (hallelujah!) painted all of the oak cabinets and shelving with many coats of white paint (shoutout SW Pure White).

The end result was so worth the wait and one I plan to love for so many years to come!

Tell me, tell me, do you have a space in your home that you just can’t wait to renovate?