Well this just happened; I got the following comment this week,
A bit too safe and basically boring as far as all the finishes. You don’t need to pay a designer to pick out such finishes.
You are a superstar designer and can be more creative than that ..Subway tile … really ?
I know it’s a classic but this “ classic “ has been over used since the 1980’s and beyond.
Truthfully, I was expecting more from you.
I know you will jazz it up with cutie -quirky accessories and it will look nice. I guess I was just expecting more from you. As a long time follower, you have taught me a few things and my taste has evolved thanks to you and your podcast / blog / and other designer outlets showcases. Now here is what I would do:
I suggest asking the tile rep for help laying the tiles in an interesting pattern or mixing 2-3 similar tiles together in a pattern to take it from “ the same old tried and true “ to the next level of something that shows a designer touch.
I just re-read what I wrote, I must have gotten up on the wrong side of the bed, but it’s how I feel and I’m sticking to it, sorry it’s not exactly what you we’re expecting to read. At the end of the day, it’s your house and if that’s your most inspirational desire , then go for it.
It was left on the blog post MOUNTAIN HOUSE BATHROOM REMODEL
This bathroom remodel is sponsored by CLICK HERE
The first thing I want to say to MMB is thank you for leaving a comment. I mean that sincerely. I think positive comments and constructive criticism are great for discussion and we (I include myself there) often learn from them. I sometimes change my design plans based on the sage advice from readers.
When comments are posted that have constructive criticism, I usually leave them, because I think the discussion that follows is often valuable. I’ve never done a full post in reply to a comment, but I am today. Why? Because I think there’s a few design points I want to make, and it’s going to take more than a sentence to do that. So kuddos to MMB for giving me a nudge to discuss these design choices in detail.
Also, I don’t think you are unhappy MMB. My title ‘Dear Unhappy Reader’ has to convey a complex idea in just a few words. I just meant you were unhappy with my design, but I can’t use the much longer but more accurate title ‘Dear reader who doesn’t like my bathroom remodel plans’ title because it’s too long.
I actually agree that white subway tile is overdone and can be boring. So yes, I do agree.
But I have a few principles that I follow when designing a bathroom. There’s a LOT of tile in a bathroom typically. I want something very classic and something I will be happy with for a long time. That’s almost impossible in design. No matter what you choose, it seems to go out of style 10 years down the road. And I don’t plan to redo this bathroom again. Sure I could go with something more eye-catching and exotic, but this is a big expense and the more ‘out there’ you go the more dated it tends to look down the road. I really like white subway tile a lot, even though I see it every where.
This tile below is pretty for example, CLICK HERE, but I think I wouldn’t be happy with it for a long time. For someone else, it might be perfect.
Another look would be to go with something like this, CLICK HERE. It’s neutral and not boring.
When we bought our previous house, the master bath had ‘exotic’ terrazzo tile. It was probably expensive and considered very on trend when the house was built, but by the time I bought the house, it was very dated looking. The other bathrooms had boring white square tile, which was probably super cheap. While I wasn’t excited about the square white tile, it didn’t make me want bleach for my eyes. Yes, white subway tile is ‘safe’ like the square white tile, but that’s okay. Believe it or not, it was a conscience choice.
Point 1 go classic on big ticket items like tile that you won’t want to replace down the road. Yes I know subway tile is trendy now and won’t always be, but I really like the simplicity and classic look, so I think it’s still a good choice for the long haul.
The other part of my design to go with ‘boring’ tile is because I want an elegant look. I discussed getting an elegant look HERE. Elegance means using restraint. I want the room to have some quiet. So the tile provides basically a simple back drop. I believe that elegance requires less in some ways. The tile will fade away, allowing the focus on the other things in the room.
Point 2 adding elegance, means using a lot of restraint.
Part of the remodel is getting rid of the bulky tub and the linen closet in front of the shower and adding frameless doors to the shower. Those things will open up the space and that will add a more airy feel to the room. That is a big part of this redo.
As the room opens up by removing the bulky tub, the linen closet and wall in front of the shower, I want the room to feel as big as possible. Adding simple, white tile to the walls, will help the room feel bigger.
Point 3 simple white tiles on the walls will help the room feel more expansive.
The pedestal tub will not be an unexpected touch, but will provide elegance to the room. The focus will be on the tub and the vanity. I haven’t selected the vanity or finishes for that area yet, but I hope to do something like Courtney did HERE.
I love how she broke the rules and did just one large mirror, even though there are two sinks. She also doesn’t need a lot of space to provide a lot of beauty. I hope to find a vanity and mirrors that are just as interesting. I want the focus to go on the tub and the vanity. I don’t want too much else going on in the room. Like I said, it’s small.
The problem is going to be finding a vanity I like that will be tall enough. My husband is 6’2”, and we will want something taller than standard. I would like to go with wall mount faucets too like I did in my powder room below.
Point 4 Add your wow factors in things that are a bit easier to change like the vanity versus the tile. I don’t want to change the tile ever again. The vanity would not be fun to change, but it would be a smaller hassle than replacing the tile. I want the attention to go to my vanity, not the tile. I want a simple, clean room punctuated with an elegant vanity.
I also want a wow mirror, so I’ll probably need to go with an antique (although Courtney’s is new). Because it is almost impossible to find two matching antique mirrors, I will probably go with one large mirror like she did. I already bought some lighting for my stairs that didn’t work there. I’ll might use these.
As for the counter top, I’m not sure if I’ll go with marble or quartz. The white granite and quartzite tend to be pretty gray, so I am going to look for something a bit more white.
I haven’t selected the flooring yet, so I might go with a wood look tile for the floor of the bathroom, CLICK HERE. At first, I planned to use wood-look tile for the floor, but the husband balked. I honestly haven’t decided yet. I shared the marble look flooring as something I was considering, but I’m not sure on that yet. This might be a nice way to break up all of the white.
Point 5 It’s your room, do what speaks to you. Not everyone is going to like your design (or mine). When someone doesn’t like my design, I do consider their points. Sometimes I agree, but I always respect their opinion. I think at the end of the day, it’s good to listen to other opinions and see if they ring true to you. Then at the end of the day, go with what you want.
Don’t miss today’s podcast episode!
PODCAST EPISODE 123 WHERE TO PUT THE CHRISTMAS TREE AND STOCKINGS
I’m about to start a major remodel that will include all the bathrooms in my house plus one new bathroom. I will be going with simple,, neutral tiles — and yes, white subway in the master, for all of the reasons you stated above. I really don’t think you can ever “do better”than classic.
Well said! Yes we all have different taste. I️ happen to love subway tile. I️ like the clean white look. I️ just did my kitchen over. Black cabinets below and cream top cabinets. With white subway tile. The tile are beveled subway tiles. I️ had them put a row of tiles stand upright and then the rest vertical! I️ love the look. My husband wanted glass colored subway tile.. I️ was afraid it was going to look dated.
Yes it is your home and you do what makes you happy!
Thanks for all the post! We should all Agee to disagree LOL
Thanks again Denise
I don’t usually leave comments but today I am because I just finished a bathroom re-do with white subway tile and I love it! We laid a black and white mosaic floor and that’s the ‘wow’.
Anita, I really appreciate how you broke that down. And I couldn’t agree more. I remodeled my master bathroom about 14 years ago. I was wanting the Tuscan look. I went with beige and brown tiles in different sizes all over the bathroom. The brown tiles mainly for a row along the upper part of the tiled chair rail, tub, and shower. It couldn’t possibly look more dated. I actually get a little queasy whenever I look at it. I’d give anything for it to be “boring”, and wish I’d had the foresight and your sage advice back then!
Ginger
I agree Ginger. The test for me is wondering how I would like it with my face hanging over the toilet. Peace or more sick?
Portia, thank you for starting my day with a huge belly laugh! ?
Well I love your guest bathroom Ginger. And Katie says your desk is out of this world. I think everything you do is just awesome.
Ginger the bathrooms at the farm are a Tuscan-ish look, neutral, but brownish and beige. So maybe I’m not so smart, ha!
Anita, even the sink, tub and toilet are bone! You can’t top that for dated! HAHAHAHAHAHA!
I agree. Classic is best. And that sink is absolutely beautiful!!
I totally agree with you about subway tile being a classic. Thanks for putting this all into words. I’m keeping mental notes.
Wouldn’t it be boring if we all thought the same? Everyone should go with what speaks to them. Seeing different ways to do things or using the classic looks are our individuality at work. I like to see rooms that are not like mine. It wakes up your imagination. I will use a one piece shower and seat in my bath remodel. It is so easy to clean and I am at an age to need the seat in the future. You will not see one of these showers in a blog. I am planning for older age. Life is so much more fun when you let YOU shine through.
Good idea Frances. Will it be a walk in? I’ve already had a go round with inconvenient bathrooms last year with two foot surgeries. There are no doorways in my house that will accommodate a wheelchair!
Yes it will be a walk in. After elderly relative and health issues from the past I am looking forward to the easy use and cleaning. I have a garden tub now and have to get in it to clean.
There are so many fun things to do with my time but cleaning this tub is not one of them.
Frances, so perfectly stated! I love to learn from others and see other peoples’ homes.
Design is like fashion. The classics always work. You may not be totally “in style,” nor will you be out of style. They are timeless.
I like that Lily. I might just have to quote you.
I agree with you Anita. Replacing tile is a hassle. Spacious and elegant gets my vote too.Thanks for sharing the comments and your well considered choices.
Please look at beveled white subway tile. I used it in my beach house kitchen and it catches the light beautifully. It’s just a little different.
~~ clap clap clap ~~
Now I’ll be stalking the contents to see if MMB leaves a comment on THIS post.
I never reply to anything! I simply fume to myself. However, I couldn’t let this go. Props to you and your gracious response to the critical reader. When did the world get so tainted that everyone feels like they can blurt out what’s on their mind? Was the comment necessary? Couldn’t the reader have simply said, “I’d like something a little more exotic in my design. Could you help me out with that?” It saddens me to see how people never consider the other person…it’s a selfie world that has lost sight of putting others first. I realize this may not be directly related to home design, but comments like that speak volumes in terms of the world in which we live. Thank you Anita for the beautiful designs you offer on a regular basis.
Anita, well said. That is what design is all about. Freedom to select your own personal touches. I believe there is really no right or wrong. It’s what makes you happy in your own home. We get ideas from each other and support. But we are free to do what pleases us. Like fashion, home decor styles come and go too. There are those safe fashion, black and white solid items, that goes with everything. Same with home decor. Enjoy your remodel. Many of us love the ideas, and excited to see more!
We used hand-cut subway tile from Italy in our shower over ten years ago and I am still in love with it! Subway tile is classic NOT trendy– Traveling through Europe you will see it everywhere and the beautiful patina as it ages ♥
Lee that sounds amazing.
I love your style because it reminds me to restrain a bit in certain areas like bathrooms. I don’t plan to retile either once they are finished. There are many other blogs out there that do risky decor.
We retired and moved a year ago and have been remodeling this 1965 house for a year. Every structural thing I put in is fairly plain and simple. It made the house look bigger and gives me freedom to decorate and redecorate. If I stay here a long time I don’t plan on redoing it. If I sell it I’m sure the new owners will appreciate it, no matter their taste.
My last house had pink counter tops with pink and green flooring, wild printed tiles in the entry, colored blinds and had been on the market for two years. I put in neutral tiles and curtains and it sold the first day on the market.
My mother in law had a room with orange countertops. I am pretty sure she regretted her choice pretty soon. You must have done a great job with your house for it to sell the first day.
My mother in law had a room with orange countertops. I am pretty sure she regretted her choice pretty soon. You must have done a great job with your house for it to sell the first day.
My mother in law had a room with orange countertops. I am pretty sure she regretted her choice pretty soon. You must have done a great job with your house for it to sell the first day.
Subway tile is classic! We used it in two bathrooms here in our new house because it will not go out of style. The pizzazz comes in other places like the mirrors and accessories.
It’s generous of you, Anita, to have this conversation. I still stick with the idea that if you can’t say something nice then don’t speak.
I’m redoing 2 bathrooms, and have looked at both subway and basic white squares, in a 6×6 size. Both can go with whatever the ” in” style changes to from year to year. I’ve done many houses, and had many regrets a few years down the road when what I chose looked dated. I believe what you are doing is called design maturity. I understand the readers and clients would like our homes to reflect something new and exciting and be filled with ideas that they can play armchair decorator , but the reality is this is where we live, or in my case fix for other to live in, they are for real people, many with different lifestyles and taste,. As unhappy stated, she might have.bern having a bad day, and honestly things she said might have come out of my mouth when discussing WITH a friend a current remodel( I often play devils advocate ), I think opposition gives us the opportunity to really solidify our choices by making us present our argument of why we made them, just as you’ve done. Thank you Anita for once again being gracious, and giving us all permission to be a bit restrained and mature in our long term design decisions?
Well said Tammy. If you listen to our podcast decorating tips and tricks we don’t always agree. I think the podcast is better when we don’t because there are three points of view then instead of just one.
I read this entire post. Why? Because it was interesting and the healthy disagreement brought out more fascinating information. ‘Unhappy’ could have simply asked why you chose subway tile which might have set easier on the palate, but we wouldn’t have gotten all of these nitty gritty lessons from you. I am in favor of a little disagreement and Anita, you handled this well!
Thank you Linda, and I agree! Different opinions are wonderful and how we learn.
I will be redoing my main bathroom and my husband picked arabesque shaped white tiles with matching white grout, which I love the look of. The are very unique for a bathroom. I’ve seen them used in kitchen backsplashes but I have never seen a picture of these shaped tiles used in a bathroom. But I’m starting to think about changing to white subway tile because I want to add a niche in the tub/shower area for shampoo bottles and I know that area will look good in subway tile, but I think if I use the arabesque tile, which will have to be cut to allow for a niche, it won’t look good. Also, would I use arabesque tile inside the niche, or something like subway tile? Although I love the unique look of the arabesque tile, I’m thinking classic subway tile will look best. Any ideas on how to make arabesque tile look good with a niche?
Secondly, regarding your flooring, if you like the look of wood, but your husband doesn’t want tile, which is hard on the feet and cold in the winter, what about vinyl plank flooring? It looks like wood, is easier on the feet and if you get the click together kind, as opposed to the glued edge kind, it is guaranteed waterproof, which you want in a bathroom.
Sharon, the arabesque tiles are gorgeous!!! I think that would look amazing. I think maybe the same color tile in squares or subway would be best for the niche, but ask your tile guy. He might be able to use the arabesque for all of the work.
Interestingly, I have been wondering when the everything white trend will wane. While it is fresh and clean looking, it does not work with Black Labrador Retrievers! White sofa’s and rugs are fine for photo’s but not for real life IMO. That said, the bathroom is the one area where I strongly feel classic is best. I don’t have the time, energy or funds to re-do my bathrooms every 7-10 years. Mine are classic white marble etc. Boring, probably. Functional, yes. Divergent opinions are great because it gives me the opportunity to review my choices as well. Anita, your designs are classic and elegant and I appreciate that you share your ideas and plans.
Having a collie that sheds constantly I feel your pain!
WOW! I didn’t take it as unhappy readers. Personally, I enjoy the input especially negative to the very adverse. Realizing then, at least they read my blog and embrace my design as theirs. When responding I am proud that they are confident to offer comments. This makes me a better and open person to honor all those who are readers of what I have to offer as a Decorating Warrior. Allowing me to open my heart to reach All and makes me a better designer and arranger. It’s not the COM-pliments that command a Designer… It is the CONS the make a Designer
My sweet friend! I love your kind and thoughtful response. So very proud of you (always)!!
I love you too Peggy! Hugs.
When I read her comment the other day, I was shocked. I am glad you addressed this and loved the way you did it.
Anita, on regards of your vanity; (and I don’t have a decorating degree) you could leave the space underneath the counter open -meaning , without doors- and place a wood that runs the exact length, underneath of the vanity. Exposing the pipes; that way it could serve as extra storage for towels on plain sight or hidden inside beautiful French baskets; that way you can give your husband the height he needs, and you have the touch if wood of your choice , that he disliked on the floors. I hope I explained my idea; as English is not my first language (Spanish is). Otherwise you can check my pinterest board (Vanessa Prohaska : bathroom remodel) or any pinterest boards for br vanities. God bless.
Wilma, great minds think alike! I am very much considering that.
Classic IMHO is never over done. I just can’t find in myself to critique someone else’s taste ever. Grandma had a switch for my rear for that behavior. Sorry….I got up on the right side of the bed and hope you all have a blessed day!
PS: Beauty is in the eye of the beholder….I behold to you and agree…
I think white subway tile is like a LBD; always appropriate, always classic, and the perfect blank canvas to embellish. I too read your reader’s pointed comment and wondered how, or if, you would respond. Your grace and elegance shine through in your thoughtful response. Plus, I gleaned several important points in you answer that will help me with an upcoming bathroom remodel. I feel so fortunate that I found your blog and the DTT podcast. You ladies make my day!
Yay, so glad you enjoy the podcast!!!
I read the post as well and thought wow! Your response is gently and firmly the whole truth, and classic is my style, too, enjoy your choices and you’ll have peace in your lovely finished space?
Your reply is well said. After all, it is your home and your bathroom…it should be your choices in how you want it to look. Thank you for all that you share with us and for being so understanding with unhappy readers!
“Less is more” always! Plus the fact that one should always keep in mind the resale of a house. Classic and understated design will always sell.
Thirty years ago I put in carrera marble vanity countertops and floors – white square tiles on the walls- also chrome fixtures and white vanities in two of my bathrooms. Everyone thought I was crazy because that was not the style, but to me it was classic and I loved the look of white and marble. Well, 30 years later my bathrooms still look amazing, I am still in love with them, and now they are in style – you can never go wrong with the classics!
It’s like you could see into the future Liz!!! Bravo on a great choice.
Beyond design….
I am a huge fan of Albert’s Einstein’s quote, “If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it.”
This is a wonderful communication of the foundational expertise Anita has and is needed to make the right design decisions. (I would have no clue)
I just may be using this as an example in my next corporate training! 🙂
I
I agree with Einstein! I’ve heard that before and think it’s quite true. I used to teach statistics. Before I understood the concepts completely it seemed super complicated. Once I understood it well enough to teach it, it became simple in my mind.
I have heard that marble stains. Quartz is non-pentratable (sp.) Is that right. Why do designers go with marble? You are thinking of a marble countertop for your vanity or quartz. Why marble if it stains?
If marble is not used in the kitchen I doubt it will have as many opportunities to stain . On the other hand I have had quartz stain- red. Never could get it off.
Oh no!!!
We did a major renovation a couple of years ago. I put in a rather large center island in my kitchen topped with …. honed carrara marble. Sherry, you ask ‘why marble’??? ….because there is nothing on the planet that looks like that, lol! I went into the decision knowing it would show water marks and the like. My friend does something brilliant that I have copied: when company is coming, and the red wine is making an appearance, my island gets covered with a clear piece of vinyl. That way we enjoy the beauty of the marble stress-free. I also put marble on vanities in two bathrooms…this time polished. They too show water marks…but c’est la vie. My home is where my family lives. There is nothing like going through Europe and seeing the many places where ‘marble holds court’….showing its age and holding the memories of people passing by. Anita….your were so very gracious in your response. And way more diplomatic than I. 😉
Kelly of My Soulful Home has marble in her kitchen, the honed version and says it doesn’t stain. I do love the look of marble, so I might consider it. But if we are still renting the house, it’s probably not a good choice, since it will need to be babied.
What we do in our homes is the result of what we like, what we can afford and any health issues we have. I just redid the master bath shower. Is it exactly what I wanted? No. But it works for us. I needed to add grab bars for my husband who has parkinson’s. I wasn’t ready to do a total gut on the bathroom and as a result I had tile that could not be matched. We finally decided to do cultured marble – the sheets of marble or whatever it is. Easy to clean and easy for him with bars on 3 sides. Doesn’t look bad just not the “decorative” bath I envisioned. I have always said we would be in this house until the kids “put us somewhere”. So I am doing things to make it comfortable for us.
Wise choices Linda and wise words. I hope your kids don’t put you any where!!
As many other commenters have said, subway tiles (neutral grout) are a classic. Anita, I used your kitchen backsplash as the inspiration for mine (even same Walker-Zanger design), because your home is about as classic and timeless as any I’ve seen and I trusted your taste. Your response to the comment was as elegant as your decor style.
Thank you Donna. Isn’t that tile gorgeous?
Well said…. & kept it classy… that speaks volumes!
Oh Anita. . .such wise decorating advice!! Stick with the classics, because whenever I have strayed I have then hated my choices, but then had to live with them because of expense, For example, my choices for my powder bath in a previous home were Tuscan beige stone tile with an intricate border ( teal, orange and beige. . .ugh what was I thinking??) never replaced it instead we sold that home. In our new home I have tried to use restraint, and employed many of your principles I’ve learned from subscribing to you. I love my new kitchen with its white subway tiles, white & grey granite countertops and griege paint color throughout the home.
Thank you Anita,
Tamra Lee
I have always had to be conservative with my money, I like dubway tile, it is classic and it may be considered overdone but I know that 10 years from now it’s still going to look good! It’s your Mountain Home not theirs, you are able to put into it whatever you want! If they feel it’s boring, then fine that’s their opinion. Thankfully, this is your blog, and your cabin, and you are able to do with it what you feel is best. Using wisdom in design is so important unless you are an avant-garde designer with the ability, and the pocket book to constantly change things up with every whim, and trend that comes down the designer Pike line; then I would suggest staying with neutrals that remain timeless and can fit into a variety of aesthetics is not only a smart choice, it is the right choice!
Good point! Yes many of us have to take the budget into account.
Subway tile IS a classic and nothing wrong with that. I think it’s a bit much for a visitor to your lovely blog to leave such a comment. You can always (politely) tell ’em to start their own blog and they can design whatever they please. 🙂 You were very sweet about it.
I’d give 40 seconds off my life to have THAT bathroom vanity you have pictured here. It’s killer gorgeous~ I am an artist & furniture re-habber myself and have a fine appreciation for the unique & beautiful projects you work so hard to produce. Your blog is a thing of beauty; I very much enjoy seeing what you’ve done recently. I sip my coffee and marvel at your sense of style & wonderful ideas. 🙂
Just FYI—I recently discovered there’s a new way to install tiles now, even subway—you lay it on the diagonal, so that pointed sides are up, sort of like stairsteps. If you Google “FireClay Tiles” you can see quite a few examples of ceramic tiles laid in diagonal patterns ( not talking about herringbone), a really sophisticated method for installing your tiles. I do NOT have anything to do with FireClay, just thought readers (and you) , might enjoy seeing different ways to install ceramic tiles and get some ideas. I won’t be offended if you delete my comment, but hoping you do go see that site; I think you’d love it. You can design your OWN custom tile there—they have a tool that allows you to choose colors and ornaments, etc. Amazing for DIY folks. They’re on the pricey side, though, gotta say that.
Anyway, hoping this helps and thank you again for your amazing blog; I enjoy it tremendously!
I’ll go check out the website!! Thank you for the lovely compliment.
Anita, I have always thought people should decorate with what THEY love and want to live with. I tried early on copying a friends decor…..I wasn’t happy at all as it wasn’t ME. I loved it for her but just not for me. That is one reason I LOVE and have collected blue and white pieces for over 30 years; I feel it is classic and won’t go out of style but also I don’t care if it does, I LOVE it! Your response was perfect: classy and beautifully said. Thank you for all you share with us, your readers.
Your home is stunning, so I’m glad you go with what you love.
Anita – I read the original comment again and I believe that she/he was not being critical of you or your choices. It was meant to compliment your talent for design and asking you to use that talent to think outside the box. While I agree that your bathroom will be beautiful, I also think it will look like every other bathroom we see on shows, etc. these days. I would like to see designer touches added too. While many see white subway tile as “classic”, I think it is “trendy” and we will be looking at something else in a few years. I enjoy your blog and style. B
Yes I so agree with what you are saying. She had some very valid points! Subway tile will not be ‘on trend’ 10 years from now. And yes it’s been overused so much!
Dear Happy Blogger and person,
Love reading your posts. I don’t always comment but thanks for making others happy sharing your ideas!
Aww you are so kind Shirley. I appreciate your positive and happy personality so much!!
Several years ago we had to replace all the plumbing in our house (1972) and because so many pin hole leaks were found in the “visible” plumbing, it was recommended that we have the bathrooms redone as well. That was good advice, because the upstairs hall bathroom had so many leaks behind the wall and under the tub. There was also some black mold that had to be address. Once all that was done and the contractor got back on track, our budget had taken a big hit. When it came time to choose the tiles for that bathroom and the master, we chose square white tiles. The ceilings are 7 1/2 ft. in this house, so those tiles make the bathroom ceilings seem to soar. Not only that since the tiles go all the way to the ceiling, it’s so much easier to keep the bathrooms clean.
Anita, I always enjoy seeing what you’re doing in your homes. I may not always like what you done, but that’s okay, because we have different taste. Please continue to do such beautiful work and inspire us all.
It’s funny how we ALL become designers when “redoing someone elses house”, isn’t it ? haha
I think we all should use what is pretty to US…and what WE like in our own homes….I am sick to death of white sofas…I see them EVERYwhere but if you or anyone else wants one, that is fine with me. Other people may say “I am sick to death of signs all over the house” and in MY house, I use them in every room because I LOVE SIGNS…and WHITE DISHES…and anything BLACK AND WHITE.
Ha, ha, too funny BJ. Oh your home sounds wonderful!!!
Perfect post, Anita… Very gracious and well thought-out. What a great example to those of us that may feel the need to reply to a comment. Thank you!
What ever happened to, if you cannot say something nice, then say nothing at all?????
Personally, I always love everything you do!
Simply said Anita!!!!! Well said!!!!!!!!! ?Roxann!
First I think MMB did get up on the wrong side of the bed that day and should have hit the delete button. I agree with Lea Ann, If I don’t care for something a designer posts, I chalk it up to personal opinion and move on. This whole country has forgotten how to be polite. Your post today was gracious and classy!
As a strong woman and a professional interior designer for over 20 years, who reads my share of blogs and comments, I truly appreciate honesty and a difference of opinion stated kindly.
I am skeptical when I read comment after comment raving, almost gushing, over particular posts. Either they have all fallen for the exact same design choices, or something’s up. And I am speaking about no specific blog, but this pattern is rampant among home decor blogs.
If one truly loves the style, then of course, say so!
As a professional, though, I don’t see much interior design in blog land. Decorating, yes, but not interior design. It is a completely different process. I believe that some bloggers think they are interior designers and so do their followers, and that has all involved a bit confused.
At the end of the day, if you have read a post, enjoyed a room makeover and it sparked an idea or two for your own home, that’s a win! I believe for myself, and this is finally my main point, being a true interior designer is a gift, a specific gift from God, everyone or anyone cannot claim that talent. You have been given it from birth, or you have not, and you know it, deep in your soul. You can do what others never could, and it’s deeply humbling……”
Well said! I agree!
Cathy, Agreed… Validated… To Point Made… Mac Paul
Anita…nice post…but so not necessary to explain your bathroom choices…as always…your rooms and decorating choices are simple…elegant…and classic! White subway tile…kind of like white tee shirts…can never have too many!
Bravo to you, Anita! I love subway tile in white. It is classic and will never go out of style. I don’t have unlimited funds to change my backsplash every time something new hits the market. I plan to put white subway tile in my kitchen during the next remodel and it will hopefully stay there forever. I love your blog! I bookmark many of the posts!
Hugs!
MMB here:
Anita:
I never dreamed my comments would spur such a multitude of comments . I think that’s a good thing.
I was totally surprised you would take your valuable time to write a full blown explanation about your choices and to see all the comments just made us all better readers of your blog.
At the end of the day, I think feedback both positive & negative make us better at whatever we choose to do and I am glad you took it in the correct spirit ( Now I know why I rarly make comments) > you are brave to run a blog / podcast/ etc)
You did “ GET ” what I was trying to convey . Maybe I was too direct for some but I am “ To the Point Person “ and I apologize if I offended you are your followers.
Having said that , I am sticking to my words!
I having nothing against subway tiles ..geez …
I was just hoping you were going to use interesting types , beveled, a more linear version , perhaps colored , or an interesting mix, after all, you are a designer but I think your first blog release was to vague and uninspiring, thus the comment and many comments that followed. Actually I am glad “ we “ woke up your readers and I know Everyone who reads your blog religiously will be waiting to see the finished product.
I wish you nothing but joy in your endeavors and a new bathroom of calmness and classics but not Boring!
MMB
Hi MMB, I’m so glad to hear from you! I was not offended. I thought you made some good points that I actually agreed with. And I’m glad to hear you expand on your comments so I can get a better feel for what you meant. Okay yes, there are beveled versions, different colors and combinations that could be used. I think those are fabulous choices. I am happy you can back and commented. And I wish you happiness as well!!! Hugs. I agree that your comment sparked a lot of lively conversation. It’s all good in my book.
Anita I am so proud of you the way you have handled and addressed the “Unhappy Reader”. I love constructive critizum it makes you a better person … But our homes are our sancturary, our happy place so to keep it that way we need to do want to keep it that way! I love your choices I hope your reader will be alright
I love subway tiles. I love classic and understated for permanent finishes. You can always jazz things with accessories.
Thought about your bathroom floor. I LOVE the look of white tile more than anything. It does show everything including hair which is always on the bathroom floor.
I was seriously considering that exact color of wood tile because I think it shows less mess on a bathroom floor. I can’t wait to see what you decide but practically that medium to medium light brown will be the easiest to not show debris.
Does anyone else find it tedious to keep white bathroom floors looking clean?
Subway tile is classic for a reason. It has been around since the Paris subways. It look fresh and clean and timeless to me. Following trends and being “quirky and interesting” is a slippery slope. Trends come and go but class is and timeless are just that. I rarely comment but felt the need to throw my two cents in. I tell my clients to go classic when in doubt. You don’t want to do an entire bathroom or kitchen in a trend and then 2 years later regret it. You can add trendy accessories, colors, etc but when those things look tired and dated your classic bathroom or kitchen tiles will still….and always be “on trend.” Just my opinion. Frankly I love your plan and think it’s wonderful for the rental-someday- retirement- home.
Wow, so many responses! 🙂
Before I forget I wanted to say that wall fixtures tend to splash more in the sink so just keep that in mind. They were very popular in Greece where we lived for 14 yrs. & often I would get wet because I am so short. 🙂
I like difference of opinion—one thing that bothers me w/decorating is the cookie cutter approach so bravo for this lady stating her honest opinion & to you for your kindness in response. I do love white subway tiles—so classic—my favorite style of decorating—but I can appreciate other designs w/out feeling personally offended. Kudos to you, Anita.
I love how you handled this. Very classy. I, for one, would love to just have correctly laid tile, but large Subway tile is my dream. I like the look of intricate lays, but I don’t like the maintenance and yes, maintenance is a big deciding factor for me because I seem to be the only one who does any.