Monday, March 31, 2014

KITCHEN UPDATE and A DELAY

   

It Continues

Last I left you we had the marble installed, and they were starting work on the tile back splash. (click here for that post.)

The tile has been installed, and grouted and to say I love it is truly an understatement. Both the tile setter, and the grout guy did an amazing job.

Tile end wall 010 (600x800)
(This was taken before grouting)

I know that the darker contrasting grout is in vogue right now, but I did that in the 70's and realize it comes and goes, but grout that matches the tile is always in and a classic, IMHO!

With that in mind I chose to  use bright white sanded grout. I chose this over just plain white because the white sanded grout had a slight pink undertone to it. 

With green cabinets the pink undertone would only be more exaggerated. Remember red and green are opposites on the color wheel so they will make each other stronger.

The bright white grout had more of a gray undertone, perfect with the Carrara marble counter tops.

kitchen after grouting 011 (800x600)
(after grouting)

I did make one change to my plan that caused a great deal of discussion, but I knew I had to make the change in order to be satisfied with the overall design.

The plumbing has been done so my faucet has been installed.

It is a beauty and  it just sparkles like beautiful jewelry in the room.

008

I chose a Rohl faucet, soap dispenser and sprayer in polished nickel.  It is in the Country Kitchen collection. I liked the softer lines that it offers.

The pieces are separated fairly far apart because I wanted the faucet to be the star, and I love the way it sits on the back of the counter. 

I wanted to see as much of the marble between each piece as possible.

We placed the faucet so the water will hit in the center of the sink, allowing for easy access when washing large pots.

Faucet arms will come in different lengths standard is around 8-9 in. and longer will be around 11in.

Measure from where your faucet will be installed to the middle of your sink and that will tell which length you will need.

We needed the 11in. arm. This is a detail that is often overlooked so be aware of it if and when you need a new faucet.

Next we have some finish work to be done and then we will be able to use our kitchen.

ANOTHER DELAY!

When the marble was installed I noticed some hazing and streaking. At the time I mentioned it we thought it could be cleaned off when it came time to seal.(I had my doubts)

I did not pursue the conversation at that point because it was not time to clean and seal it.

Throughout the project I would mention my concern but not go into a lengthy conversation until necessary.

This past week it was time for cleaning and sealing so the discussion ensued. It has been determined by my contractor and me that it needs to be re-honed for a more uniform finish.

I appreciate that he is always willing to make his work acceptable to his client.

Soooooo, we are waiting for a professional marble finisher from San Francisco to do the job.

Another delay? Yes!, but in the end we will have the finished product I have always dreamed of.

My Contractor even said, “We want Kathy to be happy!” I liked that!!

So again………
To_be_continued