Existing kitchen

View to den from kitchen - note fireplace stone

I really think the existing tile MAKES the kitchen and coordinates well with the blue and gold doors you’re keeping.

Are you keeping the floors or attempting to match what is in the den (I like the floors but they will definitely impact the countertop selection)?

Here’s another Spanish Revival kitchen: https://www.houzz.com/photos/spanish-revival-house-mediterranean-kitchen-sacramento-phvw-vp~129846415

Search Houzz photos for Spanish Revival kitchens — there are quite a few examples.

Sorry to be slow loading photos! Was having trouble uploading from albums. Here are a couple of inspiration pics from homes that have Spanish elements … the one with the stained island is from a Spanish Revival in CA …

And here are stone samples with existing backsplash- Mont Blanc Quartzite left, Calacutta Michaelangelo Marble right (so they say!!)

Well first let me pick my jaw up off the floor. Wow, your historic home is so beautiful and it is wonderful you want to preserve it.

My first question to an installer would be, “If you remove the existing quartz countertop by the range and install a new one one, what are the chances of cracking or chipping that amazing tile on the bottom row? Could it damage the plastered hood side pieces that go down to the counter? I think I would have a nervous breakdown if it they did!

I know you said you don’t love the ceasarstone, but it does look to be a perfect match in color to the plastered hood. The simple plain off white looks so nice because it does not detract. It allows the tile and hood remain the main focus.

If there is any question as to damage, I would leave that range area alone. If so, I would leave the perimeter alone as well and do a beautiful wood countertop on the new island. I notice many kitchens in that style used wood on the island.

But if no issue, then out of the two samples, I like that second one with the gold vein.

I look forward to seeing how it turns out. Whatever you decide, I am sure it will be awesome!

I found this kitchen showing a plain white perimeter with wood on the island.

I love that pic! Thank you!

Another piece of information I failed to include is that the scope of the remodel is driven by water damage as a result of a hail storm that damaged our roof in 2018. After a long and painful process we finally settled the claim earlier this year. In between various temporary fixes we had major water intrusion through the ceiling and down the wall where the sink and refrigerators are. As a result, all cabinetry, appliances, etc. are coming off that wall so the structure behind can be replaced. Which is driving new cabinetry and countertops. Island is elective, but I have wanted to reconfigure it since we moved in - planning for seating for six, three stools on two sides. I have four kids and would like all six of us to be able to sit at the island. Even though I mostly don’t sit and am the waitress. Ha.

Maybe something like Danby marble, with worn edges, and allow it to stain or etch. Or maybe soapstone. I would not do something slick or pristine, I would do something that will take patina.

I love the beautiful tile in your kitchen but if the flooring in the den is staying then I think the limestone would work better with it as well as, link the fireplace to it better. It would be a tough decision as it is pretty tile.

I like the second one with gold veins also. Have you looked at Taj Mahal quartzite?

I have looked at Taj Mahal and wonder if it may be too busy??

Also - thanks palimpsest for the Danby suggestion. I’ve ordered a sample …