A Kitchen Freshen Up

I've been working with a client on a quick kitchen freshen up.  We have selected a lighter wall color to go with their fabulous glazed cabinets.  Then we decided to tweak it a bit more with new lighting in the breakfast area and over the island as well as new hardware for the cabinets.  Here are the options I sent them . . . 

I love to give my clients options for their space.  The best part is they really can't go wrong with any of the picks!  It takes the pressure off and allows the client to truly be part of the process. 

This couple already pulled the trigger on one of the options.  When they are completely finished implementing the plan, I'll show you the results!! 

Any guesses on which option they chose? M.

If I Were Handy . . .

I would zip over to IKEA and pick up this for $299.00 . . . 

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Then I would order some chalk paint which is very forgiving and easy to work with.  I would get it in this color . . . 

Paris Grey

Then I would sand off a bit of the paint on the edges to let the original color show through like this . . . 

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Then I would change the hardware to these ($4.76 each) . . . 

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And get a very similar look to this for a fraction of the cost . . . 

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This stunning piece retails for $1,500.00 and is on sale for $699.00 at Kings Lane this week.  

Artwork Tip: If you are in the Birmingham area and want to check out some amazing original artwork, my talented friend Ashley Terrell is in town showing off her work.  You can see and purchase her pieces on Thursday, September 29th from 10am-7pm at the home of Betts and Lauten Johnson (2201 Shades Crest Road). Ashley's calling the show "Art with Reach" which is so appropriately titled given her affordable prices!    Have a great day.  M.

House Bling - Ring my Bell

It's the little details that create a fantastic first impression. Why not update your doorbell plate and add some character to your front entrance.

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Not into the electric version?  How about a good ole fashion knocker . . .

This one even has a cool peep door.

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Also, I think a large collection of door knockers on a wall in your home would make the most interesting art installation.  There would be a story behind every single one!

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The example below can be customized with your name in the large center area, or left plain for a sleek simple look.

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This one is the bomb!  I can see it on a modern style home that includes lots of traditional touches inside.

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Talk about a modern take.

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My husband has an Aunt who has this twist style at her house.  When we go to visit, my kids wear it out.  I keep thinking they'll grow out of the urge, but at 11 and 9 yrs old, it hasn't happened yet.   It must make her crazy, but she never lets on.
The twist style so charming and vintage (at least when we're not in town)!

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And if you have a beach house . . .

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Or a mountain house . . . 

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Let people know you're home in style! M.

House Bling - Front Door

Since every door needs a little glam . . .

Starting with my favorite - hard to believe door hardware can make me swoon!  I  just adore the look of this one.

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All these offerings are from Rocky Mountain Hardware.  And sadly, I'm not being paid to show them off! But, they are simply too beautiful not to share with you.
Notice the rope/beading detail around the plate and the ornate pull of this one.

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 This one reminds me of "The Other Boleyn Girl."  The deadbolt alone would make a stunning dinner ring.

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I love how this one has a hand worn look to it, like this door has been opened so many times that the handle is smooth to the touch. 

 
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More beading and an oval plate - so elegant.

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This one reminds me of a mountain resort, maybe the Ritz at Bachelor's Gulch.

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Don't forgot the door knocker!

Here's a modern version.

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And one perfect for a rustic cottage.

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Don't let the door hit you on the way out today! M.

Friday Finds

Here are a few Friday finds I thought were worth mentioning!  These are Craig's List finds around the Birmingham, Alabama.  But, I am confident you can find similar deals in your area if you just search and keep an open mind to alternative uses when you find a piece at the right price.  

Small Buffet/Bar Server

This is a great piece that is very versatile and at $99.00 it's a steal of a deal.  The piece is a small buffet server, but you could easily use it as a bed side table in your master or even a bar/server in a den.  

http://bham.craigslist.org/atq/2042719610.html

If I were going to us this as a bar/server, I would change out the hardware to something bolder.  Maybe this for a traditional look. 

http://www.kitchencabinetuniverse.com/pulls/classic-hardware-100134-drop-pull_g519380.html?isku=4894092

  

Or this for a more modern look. 

http://www.theparisapartment.com/boutique/index.php?p=93

Vanity/ Child's Desk

This piece is $75.00 (I would offer $50) and then paint the entire piece and add a piece of glass to the top for a hollywood glam look.     

http://bham.craigslist.org/fuo/2042855952.html

Pair of Twin Beds

Here is a basic pair of twin beds for $100.  The lines are curvy and feminine and have tons of potential.  Again, these could be painted any color or you could have pretty slipcovers made (that tie on the sides) and possibly include a monogram.   

http://bham.craigslist.org/fuo/2042646412.html

 Here is picture of the slipcover I had in mind.

Armoire/Desk  

This armoire is a bit rough; but if you could get it for $100.00 [they are asking $150], you would have a bargain on your hands.  I think this would look great in a bedroom or it could be repurposed as a desk. 

http://bham.craigslist.org/fuo/2041811881.html

I would repaint the entire piece Sherwin Williams Accessible Beige which comes off a bit more caramel than my computer screen is showing.  Then I would add a high gloss lacquer to finish the piece.

Then I would add these long pulls to the front to really bring the piece back to life.

http://www.kitchencabinetuniverse.com/pulls/sugatsune-standard-bar-appliance-pull_g196570.html?isku=1611669

I hope this little shopping excursion has inspired you!  Have a great weekend.