The Perfect Florida Home Bar (by Way of Ohio)

When fellow artist Kim McAninch ordered handmade tiles for her Florida home, I had no idea how beautifully it would all come together- or how quickly! The tiles for this project shipped out just over a week ago and they’ve already been installed. The results are stunning.

Full view of a modern home bar with custom gray cabinets and a backsplash of handmade ocean-inspired tiles in a soft gray glaze.

Kim is a talented painter originally from Cleveland, now based in Florida. (The Ohio diaspora is clearly alive and well; I’m fortunate to meet so many wonderful Ohio transplants through my work!) Her vision for this home bar was elegant, thoughtful, and impeccably planned. It’s no surprise, really- artists make some of the most detail-oriented clients.

Detail shot of a coastal-themed tile installation showing dolphin, turtle, and heron tiles arranged neatly above a countertop.

The soft gray glaze turned out to be a perfect match for her cabinetry, and the overall effect is both polished and personal. I especially love how the natural ocean theme adds a sense of place and quiet charm to the clean lines of the space. This set includes waves, herons, dolphins, turtles, and a scallop shell- each tile echoing the coastal surroundings in a subtle, handcrafted way.

Elegant home bar with graf, y cabinetry and a backsplash made of handmade ceramic tiles in a subtle ocean motif including herons, waves, and turtles.

Working with someone who values handmade work is always a joy, and Kim was a dream collaborator in this regard. Thank you, Kim, for choosing my tiles and for bringing your artistic eye to this project- I’m honored to be part of your beautiful home.

Close-up of handmade ceramic tiles in soft gray glaze featuring ocean-themed designs including a dolphin, scallop shell, and sea turtle, installed as a backsplash.

, Emily Margaret Ulm


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