featured product: boneyard brick

Yesterday I picked up the final detail remaining for a kitchen renovation project.  I custom ordered the backsplash tile , so the client and I have been patiently waiting the last four weeks for it to arrive.  I was so happy to have it all loaded up in the back of my vehicle yesterday afternoon.  It's kinda like delivering a great Christmas gift!

Installation begins today, so I should be able to share photos next week of the finished project.

The 2x8 tile is from the boneyard brick collection by Trikeenan.  I choose color flurry for this project, which is a beautiful white glaze that shows depth and highlights the texture & imperfections in the handmade tile.

Pictures from my phone obviously do not do it justice.  Wait for install pictures....

designer gifts

I have the urge to tell you about two of my favorite gifts received for Christmas. My brother in law gave me these....

{TOMS Silver Morocco}

Not only are they so comfortable, the Moroccan star motif makes me want to go design a bathroom like this...

{Ann Sacks Moroccan Star & Cross tiles}

(photo from House Beautiful, interior by Cathy Kincaid)

My parents gave me this...

{BOSCH laser distance measurer}

I usually don't get giddy about power tools, but this makes my heart sing.  Talk about making my life simplier!
So there you have it - designer-friendly gifts :)

What did you get for Christmas that you just love??

A Day Out

Last week I spent a day in Tampa working on several projects via rug, fabric, and tile trade showrooms.  I always enjoy my "days-out" - I feel productive, informed, inspired, and energized about each of my projects.   I visited one of my favorite tile showrooms, and thought I'd share some camera phone pictures from the visit.

I could spend hours looking through all the sample boards, finish options,and installation ideas!
What inspires or excites you?  Have you had a recent day out?