My first house! And post!

8 years ago

Hello everyone!

I am brand new here and wanted to share in my new home owner journey! I’m buying my first house, a new build that should be ready right around the new year. As exciting as it is, it’s also SO much pressure to pick out your finishes!! I tend to be an indecisive personality type and after you pick there is just so much down time to agonize over it haha. And of course there are the practical financial limitations to consider.

I wanted to share my choices with you all and update as the project comes together!

My design aesthetic is a blend of an updated Traditional meets Tudor Cottage look with some French Quarter New Orleans flare. I try to avoid trends and just go with what’s ‘me’. I love fantasy!

Not pictured, we prioritized structural upgrades that would be difficult or impossible, if not costly, to change out and skipped over more cosmetic stuff with the builders. For example, we did the 8ft doors and the Santa Barbara smooth stucco finish on the walls, but skipped backsplash and plumbing fixtures to do ourselves later.

Paint will be true white, not builder grade off white, throughout.

Pictured are our choices.

We did the highest quality cabinets they offered at the studio (I did NOT want to deal with the expense or hassle of swapping out cabinets or getting them painted). Maple hardwood in the ‘Devonshire’ charcoal stain and wood detailing. Hardware will be oil brushed bronze knobs and pulls. (Kitchen and bathroom). We did the extended uppers too.

Granite is the standard one they offered, a speckled one with beige, grey, greige, charcoal, and even a bit of rust. I don’t love speckled granite and would have preferred something fancier, but it was a cost decision. I wanted better cabinets and upgraded flooring. I can live with it and I think the color is pretty neutral to play off of. (Kitchen only. Bathrooms are standard cultured white marble).

We upgraded (level 3) to a greige berber style carpet for the bedrooms and closets that won’t pill like that awful standard fuzzy stuff. Not supreme but easy to keep up. It was too costly to run tile throughout.

In defense of my pale grey wood look tile! I know many people feel the grey wood look is a dying trend that will be dated etc. etc. HOWEVER

1) Hardwood and laminate were not options at the design studio. I’m in AZ so tile is pretty much the go to given the climate.

2) It’s a smaller single story home (2000sqft, 9ft ceilings) so it would be easy to go too dark, especially given the cabinetry, so I wanted something light.

3) The cabinets have a grey cast to them given the charcoal stain. I know Maple tends to lean towards a subtle red after so many years, but it’s such a dark stain I imagine it will override much of that. The tile also has some subtle greige veining that matches the carpets.

4) It came down to cost. There were 8 levels of flooring. 5 was the most I could afford. Trust me, within those levels, this was the best choice for the cabinetry. Everything else was either a dark grey, or very red/orange pulling mid tone and dark browns, or non wood look tile. There weren’t any nice Nordic looking creamy wood looks at this level, or really any tile choices that would jive well with the cabinets and design I have planned. It’s going everywhere but the bedrooms and closets.

5) Ultimately... I just liked it! I love reclaimed wood and distressed old wood, bleached wood, etc. You gotta work with what you can afford.

Overall it’s a neutral color pallet that I think will play nice with the decor choices I have planned. Of course, I welcome everyone’s opinions (both affirming and otherwise).

Featured Answer

PRO

Sina Sadeddin Architectural Design

8 years ago

last modified: 8 years ago

The choices look good (although I'm firmly in the camp of the grey wood look is bad), but I do worry that your granite choice is too yellow for all of the grey tones you have going on. Make sure you have the right lighting and paint so that it doesn't exacerbate that!

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Comments (34)

annied75
8 years ago
Hi -- I think you made great choices that were well thought out and most importantly -- within budget. Good luck on your new build!
indygo
8 years ago
Great choices! Looking forward to seeing your house as it progresses.
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tackykat
8 years ago
Looks nice!
hollybar
8 years ago
Congratulations on your new house! Exciting times and I look forward to watching this progress.Sounds like you have a vision of where you want to end up and that will serve you very well.
mrswaves
8 years ago
I agonize later over choices I make. It’s been really hard (but fun and exciting!), I understand how you feel!
Your selections are really nice, good luck on the new house! :)
PRO
Precision-Tops, LLC
8 years ago
last modified: 8 years ago
Absolutely!! You did exactly what I always advise customers to do...neutral color palate and accessorize with pops of color! You can create cool and fun accent walls...paint is relatively cheap and easy to change whenever you want!! Great job! Enjoy!!
crcollins1_gw
8 years ago
Looks good to me, too. Everything plays well together and starting off with white paint that you can change as you want to... two thumbs up. :)
chicagoans
8 years ago
When we did a big addition/reno I learned that getting really good carpet padding is important. We tried our carpet samples over different padding samples and noticed a big difference. It was one of those expenses that you don't see (and I didn't even think about) but made a difference in comfort. Just an FYI while you're in the selection phase.

I like your choices - pretty! And congrats!
Storybook Home
Original Author
8 years ago
Thank you everyone for the feedback!

Sina, yes the granite does pull a bit yellow-orange with the rust bits in it and creamy base color. We’re doing all ORB fixtures (cabinetry, doorknobs, sink facets, etc.) so I’m hoping the orangey bronze that peeks through the black helps. We’re also accenting with cream/ivory in the decor and some warmer woods and natural stone. That’s another reason we waited in choosing a backsplash so we could really see what the space ‘needs’. It’s so hard to tell under the studio lights what colors really look like and of course who knows what YOUR slab will look like (we don’t get to pick, the builder does).

It’s an open concept into the living room which will be a classic cream solarium look (we have a full wall glass slider so one whole wall is window for light).

I *did* break the rules and bought some jewelry light fixtures (returnable) because I loved them and sometimes things get pulled and then it’s a PITA to find them again. I’ll add some photos soon. I saw some people comment on another persons post that these are dated fixtures but, considering I’m trying to create and old world type of vibe, dated is exactly what I want! ;P haha
Storybook Home
Original Author
8 years ago
This will go in the dining room. It is its own room, but right next to the kitchen. I feel it matches the cabinets in tone AND it matches our cream and charcoal dining room table (the only furniture besides beds we’re keeping in the move) PERFECTLY. It’s going to be a large statement piece.
Storybook Home
Original Author
8 years ago
These are the pendant lights (2) I picked up for the island. Originally I wanted mini crystal chandelier types but I think the warm tone in these will work with the ORB and the granite. If not I can always return them. I have two small ceiling medallions to go up above them that will be painted to match the ceiling. I’m also having beams (maybe boxed beams) put in running through the kitchen and living room.
Storybook Home
Original Author
8 years ago
This is the one I bought for the dinette between the kitchen and living room. Yes it’s from the same collection as the pendants and yes I know it’s a no no to buy from all the same place/designer. Nothing else in this space of the house is from this line so I think having the pendants and adjoining chandelier will be ok. (Again, feel free to dissent and tell me otherwise. I love getting opinions).

And yes, I’m not buying any more jewelry or decor items until the house is done! It’s just so hard to waaaiiit! But I know I need to as you have to see the completed space to know if your choices work or not. I’ve kept the receipts and the lights are unopened.
whaas_5a
8 years ago
what was the upgrade option for the counter?

if you don’t like the specked look now you may regret the option later.

Typically that looks is dated quickly. You want some natural movement vs the consistent contrasting aggregate.

ask if the fabricator has any promo or stock quartz colors
Storybook Home
Original Author
8 years ago
5a they had tons of options for countertops. Granite, Quartz, Marble, etc. (I didn’t want manmade and I actually prefer granite for the durability). But it’s a large suburban home master plan development company so they don’t do discount deals like a specific vendor might. Ultimately it was a cost thing. Nothing in a level 2, 3, or really even 4 was an improvement to the standard for our color pallet. Level 5 started to get into bigger money. And you don’t get to pick your slab, you have to sign a waiver. So no guarantee you’d get the cool variation or even color you liked in the tiny block. I actually like that at least with the speckle I know what to expect (mostly).

There is no backyard so we needed to budget for landscaping. We got the plantation shutter window treatments because in AZ you NEED window treatments for the heat and the builder’s were priced well. We need to buy a solar blind for our glass wall slider ASAP for the same reason and because we have a view fence into a public park right behind it. We need a fridge. We need a washer dryer. The upgraded countertops were just too expensive so we sacrificed on them to invest in other more practical and immediate needs. I can live with them. I don’t think they’ll date the kitchen too much and the colors work well enough. Would something else be better? Without a doubt. I much prefer, as you said, a more visually dynamic cut of stone. Design tempered with budgetary restrictions unfortunately. I’d rather sacrifice the countertops than the flooring or cabinets since they are in many rooms and the granite is only in the kitchen. If I HATE it once it’s installed, I’ll delay the backsplash and go to a stone yard where I get to pick my specific slab :)
whaas_5a
8 years ago
Quartz is actually more durable. Sometimes by a landslide.

depending what the fabricator has for promo you can find a quartz that looks more natural than granite with tight consistent distribution

picking out colors and fixtures is the fun part!
Storybook Home
Original Author
8 years ago
5a my concern with Quartz is the heat. My family and I tend to put hot things on the countertops. I know granite can take that kind of careless abuse. My concern is melting or burning a Quartz countertop. And I don’t trust quartzite. Too many yards mislabel marble and granite for quartzite, plus it’s pricey. I’ve never chipped or stained the granite I’ve had in any of the homes or apartments I’ve lived in, but during Thanksgiving boy oh boy do I set countless trays down straight out of the oven, especially on the island. I just like granite for my kitchens :) I do like looking at other materials though, very pretty.
Molly D. Zone4B
8 years ago
Great job on your selections! Your instincts are good!
whaas_5a
8 years ago
last modified: 8 years ago
Your mileage can vary between the two but generally granite will do better with the hot pan test.

since you mentioned you weren’t happy with the speckled look and had a tight budget typically there are quartz options with movement in a variety of colors. in my local market the availability of granite slabs that have some flowing or inconsistent movement in a color other than cranberry or beige go for a premium

eitherway granite is a good choice but with you on the speckled look.
Suru
8 years ago
I think you have very nice choices. One thing about the darker granite like you have chosen is they tend to show spills and smudges much better than lighter granite.
Beth H. :
8 years ago
last modified: 8 years ago
Ashley,,,i like the choices, except the granite. once you see it installed, I don't think you will like it. it's a cheaper grade of granite and I can't believe they're telling you it's an upgrade. But this is how the builder makes a huge profit. upgrades. they pay bottom dollar for it and charge you guys a huge mark-up. An entire slab of that granite you got prob cost the builder $700, if not less. They are basic stone slabs.

what you can do is pick the absolute lowest, or whatever is included in the regular price, and wait to change it after you move in. I don't know what they're charging you, but for 2500-5K, you can pick whatever granite, quartz or quartzite that you like. you can even do pre-fab granite countertops and they come in a lot better looking colors.

this is just a small sample of colors of the prefab. would you believe these 9' countertops go for $350? you then get your own fabricator to cut and install it for you. they even come in island sizes.

I know you want everything done by the time you move in, but you can save thousands by getting the basic countertop and no backsplash. move in, get settled, and then pick the one you want and hire someone to do the tile splash for you. 100%, cheaper.

Imagine if you could pick something really cool,,,like this one, Sequoia Brown. whatever your builder is charging you for your granite and install, you could easily get something like this and not spend a dime more.

Alaska White (or Delicatus cream. a bit warmer tone)

Quartz- Stellar Snow

and Fossil Brown,,,,either of which would look perfect w/your cabinets and flooring

(whatever you do, do NOT get the 4" piece up the back. leave it off if you plan on tiling a splash)
Storybook Home
Original Author
8 years ago
Beth we are not paying for it as an upgrade. This IS the standard kitchen countertop you get included as the base model. We did not pick backsplash or any upgraded fixtures. That we’re doing ourself later. We prioritized structural upgrades (8ft doors, etc.) we couldn’t swap out later. This will be installed and I’ll evaluate. I’m not sure I can justify tearing out brand new granite in a brand new home plus the cost of labor/slab and risk something going wrong and house warranties bring voided. If I HATE it I may take the plunge, but if it ends up being workable I’ll keep it.

I will ask the Super about the 4”. We did NOT get backsplash from them, as you said, to do it ourself later and pick something once we can see the space put together. 4” might be a ‘free’ included standard with the granite. I’ll ask. If it is I’ll request it be left off. However, our builder is very black and white. If it comes with that 4” we might not be allowed to decline it without the backsplash upgrade. Our Super is awesome though so I’ll tell him the plans for back splash and I know he’ll make sure to have the back edge done in the least objectionable way possible.
kazmom
8 years ago
“depending what the fabricator has for promo you can find a quartz that looks more natural than granite with tight consistent distribution”

We got granite (vs quartz) in our kitchen specifically because we felt that most quartz just look man-made (which it is). I have seen some nice looking quartz, but haven’t seen any that look “more natural” than granite.

i like your choices together overall. Congratulations on your new house!
whaas_5a
8 years ago
Can you ask the builder for a credit and coordinate the countertop install yourself if they are constraining you?

if you pm your zip code I can recommend fabricators for you.

What you don’t want to do is put in a counter and then pull it out right away. That is a horrible ROI vs paying a bit more for something you love upfront.
whaas_5a
8 years ago
kazmom, I find that many (not all) of the builder grade granites look like the dated quartz options from 10 years ago.

Also many of the low cost granites (including quartz options) are coming from China. Not that the quality isn’t there in all cases but some folks aren’t aware of this fact.

at the end of the day I’d pick a slab of granite anyday over quartz but pending availabilty and budget quartz can be a great option
jean1
8 years ago
Love the cabinet color. Make sure your knobs have a VERY small base so they sit on the curved wood properly. My cabinets are similar and I had to switch my knob choice for that reason.
Storybook Home
Original Author
8 years ago
Thank you so much for the insights! I emailed asking about the 4” wall piece to see if it’s a standard feature or not. Out of curiosity I also emailed asking what the cost is for the upgraded levels of kitchen countertops to run the numbers one more time. If it isn’t too high or too late MAYBE I could select something different. I’m almost positive they won’t give us a credit and leave it undone. The builder is very specific about not deviating from their standard procedure in case the house falls through and they had to sell it as a quick-move in. Now we know that won’t happen with us, but I can see how the builder has those policies in place to protect their assets. I agree I don’t want to rip out something new (ROI, cost, hassle, warranty, etc.) But even if I go with the builder and upgrade I can’t pick my slab anyway. It’s a tough call either way. And ultimately I’m not made of money so, while I really appreciate everyone’s input on the granite, it might just be what it is :) I am going tomorrow to see one of their spec houses that has it installed to get a better picture in my head.
Storybook Home
Original Author
8 years ago
I found these online. The one with the dark cabinets looks like my cabinet color with my granite. Not the finishing I’d choose as this reads too ‘Tuscan’ with the tile choices and light jewelry. The look on the right is my inspiration photo with the greys. Yes I’ll be having ceiling beams installed as well as a stone or grey German smear brick arch leading into the kitchen from the foyer/dining room.
Storybook Home
Original Author
8 years ago
More photos of my granite selection.
Beth H. :
8 years ago
that has a lot of pink/taupe undertones to it. an ivory travertine would prob go perfectly w/that granite. A good ivory, not the cheap pink one.

and some other tile choices
Storybook Home
Original Author
8 years ago
These were two granites I looked at today that I really liked. When the house is finished, if I can work with the standard granite I will. I’d not I’ll swap it for something else. Beth I agree it has a very pink cast. These have cream, grey, and charcoal so really tie in well.
Beth H. :
8 years ago
last modified: 8 years ago
the last two are very pretty. I'd choose one of those. (just remember, your slab may not have all the cool markings, so keep that in mind. )

Lennon:
this kitchen is gorgeous w/the dark tile

this is Delicatus (or, Alaska White)

some places carry this as a level 1!
Storybook Home
Original Author
8 years ago
Another picture of my tile. 6x24. It’s actually more of a cream greige than grey. Studio lights really do mess with your color perception!
Storybook Home
Original Author
8 years ago
And other.