Please Stop Putting Cheap White Tile in Homes, A Before and After Story

This Stonebridge Ranch home in McKinney shows what a rich difference the right flooring and smart updates make. Specifically, what happens when you rip out that cheap off-white square tile that often comes in production homes throughout northern Collin County.

If I sound salty, I am. It’s hard enough finding three unique suburban homes worth writing about for my weekly Suburb Sunday column, let alone ones that haven’t been gray-washed to hell. But I was so pleasantly surprised by this McKinney home, that I’m showing some before and after photos of how beautifully an 80s home can be updated.

Built in 1988, this four bedroom, 3,809-square-foot home was among the first homes built in this landmark master-planned community of homes ranging from $75,000 to $1 million. Sitting on nearly a quarter-acre lot backing up to the creek, the Shady Oaks Circle home particularly stands out for its sharp roof angles, a distinctive arch, and a pass-through Porte-cochère.

Now, back to the floors. A 2016 listing shows the home’s original off-white tile flooring with dark grout and blue carpet leading up the stairs and down into the step down living area.

Today, that terrible tile has been replaced with herringbone hardwood floors in the entry that give way to handscraped wood floors found throughout most of the home.

In the step-down living area, the (likely) marble fireplace has been updated with modern painted stone that stretches to the ceiling and a simple wood mantle.

The second living area has distinctive architectural ceiling beams, similar to what you would have seen in casual kitchen dining areas. The homeowners updated this room by painting the beams neutral, brightening up the red brick fireplace, and pulling the blinds off to showcase the view of the large tree-lined backyard.

The centerpiece of the kitchen is the skylight that’s original. The spacious kitchen features unique stone countertops, tons of cabinet storage, wine cooler, and a large wet bar overlooking the living area.

The final striking transformation takes place in the master bathroom. This spa-like retreat features a center tub, standalone shower, and custom ceiling architecture.

William Bailes with Re/Max Town & Country has listed 1201 Shady Oaks Circle for $625,000.