When I was asked to do a segment on “Windy City Live” that was based on a “Before/After” moment, I Freaked out because I had no real project like this in my non-existent portfolio. Luckily for me, a friend recommended that I help her friend, who just happened to own a Nail Salon which was in need of a “Face Lift”. After our first initial meeting, I was asked if I could transform the front of this Nail Salon into a more Modern/French feel. Oh, and the entire budget will be $2500! I said “No problem”, then left the location in a panic. “How can anyone do this for $2500???” Well, you know what, I can, and I did.
First, this was not a one man operation. A number of friends joined in over the course of 5 nights to help execute this project. An Amazing team who all worked for free.
The first thing that needed to be done was a NEW paint job. Everyone know’s I like an “Orange” wall, but this was not going to work into our “French” theme. Next was the floor. Because this was a very uneven cement floor, I chose to cover it with a great “Peel and Stick” white wash wood flooring. So easy to use and looks great. The most asked question I get from people who view the pictures is “What is on that Focal Wall?” Well, I’m helping to bring back the “Wallpaper”. Such an easy and cost effective way to add a large “Pop” in any space. Keep it to just one wall for the best effect. And finally, the most important feature to this space, the Furniture. Every piece, with the exceptionof the “Ghost Chairs” is a secondhand piece bought at a Thrift Store for under $100 and rehabbed by the team. Each piece was re-worked in a similar but different way so that the all could stand out on their own.
The final touches were the new light fixtures, base boards and accessories to finalize our original concept. The client was Happy, her customers are Happy and Yes, we came in under budget.
Thanks to Jackie and her team for letting us Re-Design her Nail world. “Good Times” kg
This Bathroom was a complete Re-do from top to bottom. All tile and fixtures were removed and replaced. I added a new custom Vanity on the other side of the room by removing the old door and replacing it with a new Pocket Door. This gained the client 4 more feet of usable space. I removed the small 5′ tub and added a new 6′ tub with a glass door. I also added 5 new light fixtures on dimmers for maximum lighting opportunities and of course for a special mood moment if needed. The vanity was designed for easy access into the Bathroom with a slight move of the sink to the right. The Mirror is also a Medicine Cabinet which is also mirrored on the inside. Extra storage was mastered by bringing in a tall mirrored dresser placed where the old sink used to sit. And finally, New accessories and lush towels to complete our intended goal.
OK, Yes another nail bitter for you all last night. I think my Parents are about over this by now. First I have to start off by saying that I was more surprised that I was even in the bottom as I was that I had been saved. That kitchen was COOL! Let’s review a few things….
1. The Peg board was MY idea and I went out and bought it.
2. The stool by the desk was high on purpose, It was for little “Sassy”!
3. The desk area was messy cause that’s what little kids do, VERN!
Ok, now that I’ve gotten that out of my system, I was sad to see Tyler go and super confused as to why Catharosa was kept. I guess another week of “Cathy Drama” and another week for ME 
Please share this Page with a friend.
Another week. Another challenge. Watch HGTV Design Star with me, Monday nights at 8 pm CST.
OMG!!!! I won!!! I know this is a bit late for me to comment on, but I’ve been on Vacation. OK, let me start off by saying, “That Basement was GROSSSS!” Kelli and I ripped all the carpeting up and carried it out to a dumpster out front. Nasttty! I had another crazy shopping adventure @ Sears that they did not show and I almost did not get my desk done on time. But I pulled it all off and grabbed the win. I could not have done it without Kelli and Leslie. Great Job Team!!!! NEXT….
OK, So I went from the bottom to the Top this time. The Wall and the Table were inspired by my time working @ a restaurant named “Bone Daddy” in 2001. Brown Butcher paper makes for a crazy, but cool wallpaper don’t ya think?? What are some of your thoughts on my Design and the others??? kg
OK, So not everyone likes a bright orange “Pop of Color” on their walls, but I am NOT apologizing for my choice. I loved it!! kg
