I think of nickel as a kinder, gentler metal. Whats it like to work with?
It’s a little softer, and has an older feel. I put it next to the stove because it’s burnproof. What about scratching? Let’s just say that in the first year, it doesn’t look as good as it does in the third year, when all the scratches are there. The black-and-white tile looks great against the mustard-yellow paint, and I love that detail of the recessed shelf behind the stove. Usually there’s enough room back there to carve out some space. The recess is a lot more interesting than a plain wall, and it’s great for holding things like salt, pepper, and olive oil. Sometimes I’ll even change the tile pattern in the inset, but this time I decided it was better to be restrained. You’re very good at tucking in all sorts of storage. I notice the island has great big drawers and a shelf down below. That shelf opens it up, so the island doesn’t become this huge block. It also has legs, to look more like a piece of furniture. People must be amazed to open those doors next to the refrigerator and
