Vintage kitchen transformation

Dirty kitchen tile

Do you think I can bring this kitchen back to its former classic self?

2_dirty_sink

The homeowner wanted to retain this kitchen's vintage style. The exact size of the existing box trim on the counter edge was no longer available so I had to remove all 22 trim tiles. Also, most of the quarter rounds surrounding the sink were damaged, including the inside corners known as "butterflies". Fortunately new vintage reproductions were available from B&W Tiles Co., an American tile factory.

Damaged hex tiles

There were damaged hex tiles and missing grout on both sides of the sink, which led to dry rot of the wood structure under the mortar deck.  It's extremely important to maintain the grout and tile in areas subjected to water to prevent dry rot.

Vintage recessed soap tray

The homeowner also wanted to keep the vintage recessed soap tray.

Vintage box trim tile

Here is a profile view of the box trim to be installed at the edge of the counter.

Cleaned grout

Completed counter with new grout filling in the voids and new box trim at the counter edge.

New sink installed

Because all the quarter rounds were removed I suggested that the homeowner purchase a new single-basin sink.

Cleaned grout

Close-up of the cleaned, repaired and replaced tile and grout.