One kitchen detail I have yet to show you is the last project we finished before seeding began—tiling the backsplash.
After much debate, we ended up with inexpensive white subway tiles from Home Depot. We didn't debate the style—I knew I wanted subway tile—but we debated the color. My cabinets are called "Divinity" and our trim color is called "Powdered Snow", neither of which are bright white. They aren't cream either. Somewhere in between I'd say. I looked at a number of different options, and ultimately decided the white of these tiles was suitable, and they were certainly the best price at just over $1/sf.
(I just realized neither photo I've included shows the white cabinets, so I'll have to post more for you later. The tiles are a bit whiter than the cabinets, but it isn't extreme and it all blends pretty well.)
I went for white grout, although I have definitely noted (and liked) the trend of going with gray or darker grout. I just wanted a cleaner and more timeless look and wanted the tile to be the backdrop, not the star of the show.
We ran out of wall adhesive before we were able to finish the section above the window on the far wall (above). We will go back and finish that when Tom has some availability, and then I will caulk all of the seams.
The new hood is great too—I can finally cook without setting off the fire alarms (a regular occurrence before)! But by far my favorite part is the stove backsplash. We opted not to buy the expensive backsplash that matched the Kitchenaid cooktop. Instead we found a less expensive magnetic backsplash on sale from Pottery Barn. It came with some cute magnetic clips that provide the perfect spot to clip a recipe. Pottery Barn also had this stainless shelf with hooks. Not only did we save money, I LOVE the result. I wasn't sure about the hooks at first (they are removable) but now it is my favorite part. My measuring cups and spoons are perfect here and within such easy reach. I bought a second identical set to hang on the other side. The shelf also provides a perfect ledge for my oils and salt & pepper shakers. I am on a mission to keep my counters as clear as possible and this helps a ton.
To the right of the hood you can see two rows of holes in the tile. These are for the hidden supports that will hold two open shelves. We purchased some 1-inch thick 7-inch wide oak boards that we need to glue together and drill for the supports. My dad will tackle that project when seeding is finished and then I can stain and finish them. It will be SO handy to have our everyday dishes there, right across from the dishwasher.
Much to do, but it is finished enough to be enjoyed, and enjoying it we are!