The shameful part is the decidedly lacking collection of before pictures to go along with the after pictures of this awesome undertaking. What started as a simple tile back splash installation turned into a fabulous custom job.
Before the alteration, there was no back splash, save the counters edge which arched up and backed the wall. The kitchen was lit from the middle of the room, by one large fluorescent tube fixture, housed up inside the ceiling, behind two thin plastic sheets which were surrounded by cheap metal framing. The light switch/outlet plates were run of the mill plastic covers
The project originally called for the installation of a tile back splash, borders and mass produced switch/outlet covers. As for the one light fixture, a wooden frame was to replace the metal frame and softer lighting would be installed. Recessed lighting would be placed over the counter to supply work areas with much needed illumination.
The purchased back splash ended up being beautiful 2" x 2" slate tiles in many different, rich but subtle earth tones. They were sold positioned and attached on 12" sheets cutting labor time in half. The chosen end borders are narrow but substantial, diamond studded pewter liner tile trim pieces with a pretty antique finish. The electric covers began as brushed metal plates. More on that later.
The inset fluorescent tubes were removed and replaced with track lighting now controlled by a dimmer switch. The wooden frame was, at first, going to be purchased but became a custom job made with birch wood, cut using a radial arm saw and stained with a natural pigment. The plastic covers were replaced with thin plexiglas sheets which were decorated with translucent, self adhesive, wisteria vine window decorations, giving it the appearance of stained glass. Four, recessed, brushed chrome, 4" mini eye ball light fixtures were situated above the counter where their beam can be manually positioned to brighten up anywhere you might be needing their attention.
Once the tile and trim was set, the brushed silver switch/outlet covers were the last items to situate. They ended up being thinner than expected and to have them fit correctly, gang box extenders would have been needed. It was discussed, matching custom slate plates were offered and gladly accepted. 6" matching slate tiles were obtained to make the covers. Measurements were taken and then, using a 24" wet tile bridge saw, they were cut down to size and the edges were beveled. Due to the delicate nature of slate, an extremely gentle touch was applied with a dremel to hollow out the appropriate shapes needed in each cover.
This kitchen is an ongoing project so please take that into account when viewing the following slideshow. You'll notice the ceiling still needs to be textured and painted. Everything is coming out so well that it is considered "blog worthy" regardless.
