Sometimes all it takes is one thoughtful design element to turn a beautiful space into one that truly sings. When this client in California got in touch, her kitchen had just been beautifully remodeled: warm, mid-tone wood cabinets, black and pale gray counters, and a subtle, coordinating backsplash. It was calm, inviting, and full of natural warmth, but she felt it needed a little something more....
Above: The kitchen before the handmade tiles were added
She discovered my work and selected a variety of handmade feature tiles to bring her vision to life. The glazes she chose: Honey, Gray, White, and Night Sky, could not have been more perfect. Here are the tiles prior to installation:
The tiles were installed with great care and precision; each one perfectly aligned and spaced to let the handmade details shine without disrupting the flow of the existing backsplash.Honey ties in beautifully with the wood cabinetry, Gray and White blend seamlessly with the counters and backsplash, and Night Sky echoes the dark drawer and cupboard pulls, adding depth and contrast.
The tiles were carefully added to the existing backsplash, turning quiet surfaces into places where the eye can linger.
Each one adds a little spark of texture and color without overwhelming the original design. It’s a great example of how handmade tiles can layer onto a space that’s already finished and still feel completely intentional.
One of my favorite parts of this project is the Heron set installed over the stove, framed with two- and three-inch border tiles. I’ve made this design many times before, but this is the first time I’ve glazed it in Night Sky, and I absolutely love the result. The deep, inky black gives the piece a dramatic presence and creates a grounded, striking focal point in the heart of the kitchen. Here is a close-up of that set before it left my studio:
After the tiles were installed, the client sent me the kindest note:
"...they look absolutely wonderful in our kitchen! They add just the right amount of punch and interest... Thank you again for creating these lovely pieces of art and for just being who you are. It's been a joy from start to finish."
It really was a joy on my end, too. I'm so glad she trusted her instincts and followed the spark of an idea that turned her already beautiful kitchen into something truly one-of-a-kind. Big thanks to D.S. and her installer, H., for making this project happen and for taking the time to share the results!
