Kitchens are often considered the heart of a home. They are where families gather to cook, eat, and bond over meals. As such, kitchen design is an important factor in creating a functional and inviting space. This week’s featured kitchen uses an unexpected material to make a stylish statement: broken china.
Introduction
Broken dishes, platters, and china pieces are often discarded without a second thought. However, this kitchen designed by [John Doe] shows how broken china can be creatively repurposed to add character and visual interest. By strategically incorporating shattered plates, mugs, and bowls, a once mundane kitchen is transformed into a vibrant work of art.
The unconventional use of broken dishware achieves a number of design goals. The random shards and fragments introduce an element of imperfection that makes the space feel lived-in and approachable. The eclectic pieces add pops of color, pattern, and texture to liven up surfaces. And the idea of taking something broken and giving it new life parallels the process of renovating a tired, outdated kitchen.
This article will examine the key features of the broken china kitchen design. We’ll look at how the mixed pieces are cleverly integrated throughout the space, from the backsplash to the countertops and more. You’ll see how the homeowners’ cherished dishware creates a personalized focal point. And we’ll analyze the practical and aesthetic benefits of using shattered plates and cups for a one-of-a-kind look.
Whether you’re planning a kitchen refresh or simply admire innovative interior design, this whimsical yet functional cooking space is sure to inspire. Read on to learn how broken china is anything but trash in this week’s kitchen of the week.
Clever Use of Broken China Backsplash
One of the most eye-catching aspects of the kitchen is the use of broken china pieces to create a textured backsplash. Just behind the stovetop and surrounding countertops, the randomly placed shards form a mosaic-like collage.
The backsplash consists of an array of broken dishware, from dainty teacup fragments to sizable platter pieces up to 6 inches across. The homeowners raided their own cabinets as well as local thrift stores to amass an eclectic mix of china patterns, colors, and textures.
Hues of blue, green, pink, yellow, and white dance across the backsplash, mixing both vibrant and neutral tones. Subtle curves and angular edges combine for visual interest. By keeping the dishware shards relatively small in size, the installation has a smooth, fluid look despite the fragmented materials.
The broken china backsplash serves multiple design roles. Not only does it function as a practical cooking zone guard from splatter and spills, it also injects color, hides any old wall flaws, and acts as an unexpected focal point. The backsplash has texture and depth that simple tile cannot achieve. And using their own meaningful dishware makes the project personal to the homeowners.
This ingenious use of broken dishes gives new purpose to keepsake items that hold sentimental value. And the randomness and imperfect shapes reflect the charm of something handmade. The end result is a stunning backdrop that elevates the entire kitchen’s style.
Statement-Making Broken China Countertops
But the clever use of broken dishware doesn’t stop at the backsplash. This kitchen’s countertops are also adorned with an array of fragmented plates, bowls, and cups. While smaller pieces are used behind the stove, extra-large china shards take center stage on the countertops.
The countertop surface combines approximately a 60/40 ratio of solid surface material and broken dishware. This allows for plenty of usable area while still highlighting the dazzling display of shards. The neutral solid surface sections help ground the countertops so they don’t feel overly busy.
Many of the broken china pieces used on the countertops measure between 6 to 12 inches across. Their large size shows off the ornate patterns and decorative details. Faucets, sinks, and appliances are still functional, perforating through the collage of china.
A special resin coats and seals the shards to create a smooth, continuous surface. This provides an ultra-durable and food safe finish. The resin also adds a glossy sheen that makes the china gleam.
In terms of functionality, the countertops operate like any ordinary solid surface. Yet they deliver an extra dose of wow-factor with the artful arrangement of broken dishes. The eclectic pieces give so much more character than generic counters. And the mix of sentimental dishware makes a strong personal statement.
Practical Pros of a Broken China Backsplash
Beyond just looking stylish and unique, using broken china for a backsplash or countertops has many practical advantages. Here are some of the top benefits:
- Cost savings: Repurposing old dishware is an affordable alternative to popular backsplash materials like tile or stone. The only major costs are adhesive and grout.
- Easy installation: Compared to tile, broken china is simpler to arrange and piece together. No special skills or tools are required.
- Food safe: Sealing the shards with a resin coat prevents bacteria buildup and makes the surface safe for food prep when used on countertops.
- Durable: The resin coating also makes the backsplash or countertops more impervious to cracks, chips, and scratches. The solid surface withstands daily wear and tear.
- Low maintenance: Broken china backsplashes don’t require any special cleaning or maintenance routines. Standard kitchen cleaners and wiping is all that is needed.
- Customizable: Using your own special dishware allows you to create a personalized, one-of-a-kind look that matches your style.
- Artistic appeal: The recycled nature and handmade imperfection add artistic charm and character that manufactured materials can lack.
- Conversation piece: Guests will surely be intrigued by the uncommon use of broken dishware, making it a great conversation starter.
So in addition to the decorative visual impact, this creative backsplash and countertop idea is also smart in terms of affordability, durability, and ease of care. The benefits speak for themselves.
Design Inspiration: Tips for Incorporating Broken China
After seeing the inventive ways broken china is incorporated throughout this unique kitchen, you may be feeling inspired to try this DIY concept in your own home. Here are some tips to get you started:
- Choose significant dishware: Pick china pieces that hold nostalgic meaning or memory to make your project more meaningful. Don’t be afraid to utilize dishware that is highly ornate or vibrant.
- Play with shape and scale: Incorporate both small and large shards to add dimensional interest. Keeping some solid surface visible prevents a too cluttered look.
- Strategically place featured pieces: Highlight special heirloom finds by positioning in prime spots, like near the sink or stove.
- Consider food safe resin: If using broken china on countertops, seal pieces with a glossy resin to prevent bacteria and give a finished look.
- Mix and match: Don’t limit yourself to sets. Combine different patterns, colors, and textures for eclectic styling.
- Take time arranging: Lay out your shards and play with different compositions before adhering. Step back periodically to ensure placement looks cohesive.
- Embrace imperfections: Chips, cracks, and flaws lend an authentic, handcrafted vibe. Don’t overthink or try to make it overly polished.
With a little creativity and your cherished dishware, you can upcycle broken china into a stunning focal point for any kitchen or space. It offers affordability along with plenty of personalized flair.
FAQ About Broken China Backsplashes and Countertops
What types of dishware can I use?
Porcelain, ceramic, china, pottery, and stoneware are all suitable options. Avoid metal or glass that may easily shatter. Focus on plates, bowls, mugs, and platters vs. fragile stemware.
How do I adhere the shards?
Use a construction-grade adhesive specifically for glass and tile. Apply a layer to both the surface and each broken piece. Press firmly to secure shards in place.
What about gaps and uneven surfaces?
Gaps can be filled in using sanded grout that is tinted to match your color scheme. The resin used to seal countertops also helps smooth any uneven edges.
How durable is a broken china backsplash?
Sealed properly, broken china backsplashes stand up well to typical kitchen wear like splatter or spills. Avoid direct high heat exposure. Proper cooking ventilation is a must.
Can you use broken china on floors or as wallpaper?
Floors receive more abuse so are not recommended. You could frame broken china “artwork” as unique wall decor. Removable wallpaper is another non-permanent option.
Is there risk of shards dislodging over time?
Quality adhesive and grout keep pieces firmly secured. Resin coating also helps encapsulate shards on countertops. Proper installation prevents dislodging issues.
How do I clean and care for my broken china backsplash?
Use mild soap and water to keep surfaces clean. Avoid abrasive scrubbers. Periodically refresh grout lines and reseal resin to maintain the look. shards encapsulate shards on countertops. Proper installation prevents dislodging issues.
How do I clean and care for my broken china backsplash?
Use mild soap and water to keep surfaces clean. Avoid abrasive scrubbers. Periodically refresh grout lines and reseal resin to maintain the look.
Conclusion
This featured broken china kitchen proves that shattered dishware can surpass expectations when thoughtfully repurposed. The randomly placed shards inject a sense of playful personality. While the eclectic pieces come together to form a cohesive mosaic.
By incorporating their own meaningful plates and cups, the homeowners created a personalized stamped. The end result is a space that feels welcoming, approachable, and full of artistry. It outperforms a typical backsplash or countertop through imaginative use of humble materials.
While this idea may seem unconventional at first, the practical advantages speak for themselves. Broken china backsplashes and countertops deliver affordability, ease of care, and resilience. All while providing a canvas for self-expression.
Hopefully this kitchen of the week provides inspiration. Whether planning a kitchen remodel or simply admiring creative ingenuity, this space proves the design potential in broken dishware. Their imperfections add handmade appeal that manufactured materials cannot replicate. A splash of broken china brings new life to any room.
