I’m currently working on a lakeside cottage design we’ve dubbed Mid-Century Modern Lakeside—a bit of a mouthful, but it perfectly captures the spirit of this project. Like many Northern Michigan cottages, this home was built mid-century and added onto over the decades. Now, it’s passing from one generation to the next, and with that comes a well-deserved facelift.

The design inspiration is layered: we’re honoring the clean lines and sleek style the homeowner loves while still staying true to the laid-back, nature-inspired charm of lake life. Cool tones, organic textures, and thoughtful updates are guiding the way—and at the heart of it all is the kitchen.

Currently, we’re deep in backsplash decisions. Originally, we thought a classic white subway tile would be the safest choice to pair with the quartzite countertops and other bold details. But as the homeowner pointed out—glass tile makes her happy. So now the challenge is to find a way to work in that shimmer without dating the space or pulling it out of context.

1. Marmont Smoke White Polished Antique Mirror Tile
2. Loft Blue Grey Polished Glass Subway Tile
3. Arctic Blue Chevron Crackled Glass Mosaic Tile
4. Maya Stacked Sky Blue Glass Tile
5. Remington Bricks Midnight Blue Mixed Finish Glass Tile
6. Remington Bricks Slate Blue Mixed Finish Glass Tile
7. Behati White 4″ Glass Star Cross Glass Tile
8. Nabi Subway Midnight Blue Green Fluted Ridged Crackled Glossy Glass Tile

We’re looking for a tile that nods to glass without going full 2000s Tuscan kitchen. Here are a few samples we’re considering from TileBar—take a look and let me know, which would you choose?

0