I am a bit sentimental and would never destroy old tilework with my own hands, even if its aesthetics feel a little strange.

After layers of newer tiles were removed and the original tiles were cleaned, glued back together, and reinstalled, the late Edwardian fireplace was revealed.

It may be a touch too theatrical for my taste, and the circular drill marks have not disappeared entirely, but the result feels honest, weathered, and undeniably full of history.