kitchen: week 6

Here we are . . . at the end of the estimated 6-week timeline, and we're almost done.  The contractor finished up the backsplash tile yesterday and grouted it today.  While we are away for the holiday, they will complete the floor finishing so that, when we return, we will have a fully functioning kitchen!

While I was gone in Chicago the contractor figured out that we were going to be short on the backsplash tile.  I had originally planned to take the tile all the way to the ceiling in the space above the sink but when I saw the completed installation on Friday night after I returned home, I was a bit overwhelmed by the amount of tile.  It didn't help that the countertops were completely covered.  I wasn't seeing anything else except for the tile against white walls and cabinets.  I knew that the backsplash was going to be a feature of the kitchen - it's the only permanent "color" we are adding to the space - but I hadn't expected it to feel so dominant.  So I took the fact that we were short on tile as a sign and decided against taking it all the way to the ceiling.  The contractor extended the line up about six additional inches and then capped the tile with the metal edging trim.  We'll then mount the first oak shelf at that line and space the two others evenly in the remaining space.  Good decision? I suppose it's all a matter of personal preference, but I feel like I chickened out a bit.

Stay tuned for final pictures after Christmas!