Posted by: Old Port Specialty Tile Co. in Inspiration, Kitchen, TIle

Bringing a Dream Kitchen to Life: Our Collaboration with Artisan Debb Todd

For more than four decades, Debb Todd quietly honed her craft—sculpting, glazing, and firing tiles by hand—long before she ever called herself an “artist.” But make no mistake: artistry is at the heart of everything she does. Her work blends classical motifs with old-world charm, each tile shaped by time, touch, and a deep-rooted love for design. Her creative journey began in childhood, inspired by her father, a New York art director who brought home storyboarding notepads from work. Young Debb filled those square blocks with doodles, a grid-based habit that became the foundation of her artistic style.

Today, Debb is known for her fully custom tile work—no two pieces alike. She oversees every step of the process, from forming the tiles to mixing her own glazes, and firing them in the kiln. It’s a slow, patient process, often dictated by the weather—humidity can stretch curing time from days to weeks. But for Debb, that’s part of the magic. Each finished tile is a labor of love, infused with intention and care.

At Old Port Specialty Tile, we’ve been proud to partner with Debb for over two decades, showcasing her work in our showroom and bringing her one-of-a-kind creations into many of our clients’ homes. Her artistry allows us to offer something truly unique: bespoke tile that turns personal stories, inspirations, and memories into lasting design.

In early 2024, her skills were called upon for a kitchen unlike any other.

Susan and David had recently endured a major setback: a flood had destroyed their kitchen. But where some might see a disaster, Susan saw opportunity. She had long imagined a whimsical floral backsplash, inspired by a photo from a trip to the French countryside. Now was her chance to bring it to life.

They met with Allison, a project manager at Old Port Specialty Tile, who helped bring Susan’s vision into focus. Ladybugs, butterflies, honeybees, winding vines, and spring flowers were among Susan’s must-haves. She provided photos and described her dream in detail, and Allison translated those ideas into an initial sketch—carefully factoring in practical elements like outlet placement, so the design would flow without interruption.

What followed was weeks-long collaborations between Susan, Allison, and eventually Debb, who was brought in to execute the tilework with her signature touch. Edits were made, sketches revised, colors debated. Then, midway through the process, Susan had an idea that gave the project even deeper meaning.

She wanted to incorporate specific flowers—each in a different color—to symbolize her daughters and granddaughters. With that addition, the backsplash became more than beautiful. It became personal.

As a finishing flourish, Susan—who once taught school—chose to include a beloved quote from E.B. White, inscribed above a window:
“Always be on the lookout for the presence of wonder.”That one sentence encapsulated everything the kitchen had come to represent: a blend of memory, family, hope, and everyday joy.

The result was more than just a backsplash—it was a living story told in ceramic and glaze. Every bloom, every insect, every brushstroke held meaning. And for Debb, it was yet another reminder of why she does what she does: to help people turn their homes into reflections of who they are.

The kitchen now stands as a testament to collaboration, craftsmanship, and wonder. It’s a space where function meets feelings and where a grandmother’s dream becomes a permanent part of the family’s daily life.

This project is a beautiful reminder of what’s possible when artistry, collaboration, and intention come together. At OPST, we’re proud to connect homeowners with exceptional materials and makers—like Debb Todd—who help transform inspiration into deeply personal design. Whether you’re dreaming of a one-of-a-kind focal point or a space that reflects the story only your home can tell, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

If you’re ready to start bringing your vision to life, book a convenient design appointment with our showroom team and let us help you create a space filled with meaning and beauty.