A Seattle Rental House Has the Cutest Checkered Kitchen Backsplash

Jessica Cox, who has been renting this home for a year, tells AT more about her home: My husband and I relocated to Seattle late spring of last year and moved into this rental home. It was built in the 1930s and has a lot of quirks, but also a lot of historic charm. It has original built-in cabinetry, windows, and tiling and a big backyard for us to all enjoy. Our landlord is a florist who has heirloom flowers planted so I also love getting to clip seasonal blooms from the yard and arranging them into bouquets throughout the house.

My husband is a history teacher and I work as a creative program manager so this place feels like a representation of the both of us. You will find historic train memorabilia, items from local artists and makers, house plants, and vintage/thrifted furniture throughout our home.

I’d say my personal style is pretty classic and simple/easygoing and I’d describe myself as laid-back, creative, and driven by quality time with family and friends. On most days you can find me wearing jeans, vintage graphic T-shirts, a complementary jacket, and a pair of Converse or Vans. My home feels similar, in that it feels well-lived in — there’s nothing too fussy, the colors are warm and neutral with pops of color, and it’s filled with the things we love. It’s also set up with entertaining and hosting others in mind.

Describe your home’s style in 5 words or fewer: Mid-century bohemian, neutral, thrifted.

What is your favorite room and why? I think our living room is my favorite room. It is filled with some of my favorite things: vinyl, my larger houseplants, family photos, and most of my books. We intentionally didn’t place a TV in the space so it can be a room for relaxing, listening to music, and socializing with no distractions. Plus it has an incredible arch leading to our dining room and a functional built-in bookshelf, and gets great light throughout the day!

My husband would probably say our basement bar, though, which is our favorite place to be able to entertain year-round.

What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? This year I am teaching myself how to sew! For my birthday I received a sewing machine as a gift and have since set up a little sewing utility cart to store all my essentials.

Any advice for creating a home you love? Buy the things that make you happy — don’t think about trends or buying what’s currently popular. Invest in real wood furniture, buy from small businesses and independent makers, and focus on functional pieces that work for your space and lifestyle.

This submission’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.
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