One of the typical problems the average Victorian Homeowner faces is fireplace tile replacement. Normally its totally gone or replaced by Z-brick. Often all we have is the "bumpout" which may require finding a mantle and of course all new time on the floor in front and the back areas.
In the old days that meant scrounging salvage dealers hoping to eventually picked up enough tile to do a surround but often there were significant color differences and it never quite looked "authentic"
Fortunately several tile companies have sprang up in recent years to fill that void. Often duplicating original designs of long gone tile manufacturers. One such company is L'ESPERANCE Tile Works. http://www.lesperancetileworks.com/
In addition to a fine line of Fireplace tiles they also offer "subway tile" in varied colors for use in fireplaces, period kitchen backsplashes and bathrooms.
