This is the short story of what happens when a really bad kitchen happens to a really cool person.
You might know my friend Anne Turner (remember this post and this post)... the girl has style, impeccable style.
I can only imagine that this kitchen was totally killing her. Spec grade maple cabinets with green laminite countertops, mix-matched appliances. She was way cooler than that kitchen. But we can't have it all at once... she had just moved into this new (old) house, she did some facelifts here and there, but a kitchen renovation is expensive. So she and her husband Neal lived with it for awhile.
That is, until she couldn't take it any longer. And started the renovation...
She raised those cabinets up, added crown, ripped out that tile, well... here see for yourself:
And my favorite shot of all:
I think this might just be my favorite photo of 2008... and it's just icing on the cake that I love the girl who dines at this table and cooks in that kitchen!
You may be thinking these photos look familiar... because you might have seen it in the last issue of Cottage Living November/December 2008... and when I say "last" I really mean it... it was the last issue. They went out with a bang...
You can read more about Anne Turner's kitchen renovation here.
Some credits and info:
Photographer: Erica G. Dines {website not working}
Paint on walls: Farrow & Ball "Lime White"
Paint on cabinets: Uppers; same as walls, Lowers; F&B "Mouse's Back"
Window sashes and doors: F&B "Stoney Ground"
Hardware: Restoration Hardware, Ephram 6" pulls
Countertops: Black honed granite from Dupont at Lowes
Wood Countertops: Walnut butcher block from AWP Butcher Block
Appliances: Kenmore Pro, Sears
Tile/Splash: Ann Saks, Capriccio in antique white (it has a great wavy finish to it that makes the tile)
Pendants in kitchen: Restoration Hardware, Harmon Pendant in dark brass
Dining table: vintage
Dining chairs: Zentique
Dining room chandelier: vintage (from her brother's 1940s house in Montgomery, Alabama)
Floors:Lumber Liqudators 2 1/4" white oak select stained with half formula of Special Walnut
Fabric behind French doors: Lewis & Sheron
What year was your house built? We think the 40s
What year do you suspect your kitchen was last updated? oooh, maybe early 90s
And I almost forgot... the Faucet: Price Pfister!
PS- I'm waiting to hear back from Anne Turner on the color of those dining room walls... will update as soon as I get that info!
Paint on Dining Room Walls: Pratt & Lambert "Sierra Night"
TGIF!
Gorgeous!! I love it! My dream is to paint my cabinets white and rip out the backsplash. I also love the green lower cabinets. I have one question...how do they reach the microwave? They must be a really tall family :)
Posted by: Robin | January 09, 2009 at 10:13 AM
There is not one thing I don't love about this makeover. I love how they re-used the cabinets and didn't do any demo.
Posted by: Carrie | January 09, 2009 at 10:16 AM
This is perfect! My husband and I have been looking at kitchen redos and haven't been satisfied with anything we've seen so far. This, however, is both do-able and potentially cheaper. Plus it's amazing. Good job!
Posted by: Whitney | January 09, 2009 at 10:52 AM
OMG I want to show up on her doorstep with sleeping bag in tow and move right into that fabulous kitchen!!! AGHHHH It's fabulous.
Posted by: Courtney | January 09, 2009 at 10:56 AM
This is the kitchen that had me freaking out about the grout, which led to my frantic phone call. I love this kitchen it's a beauty!!
H
P.S. After seeing this I wanted to raise our cabinets which Greg quickly nixed. I saw the wisdom in it when he pointed out to me that I wouldn't be able to reach ANYTHING..
Posted by: Heather | January 09, 2009 at 11:01 AM
I want to stare at the Sierra Night walls and that chandelier all day long!
Posted by: ansley b. | January 09, 2009 at 11:03 AM
I have seen that kitchen, and it is a wonderful redo. I could never tire of looking at all the wonderful things they did.
Posted by: sandra/tx | January 09, 2009 at 11:11 AM
wow - what a dream kitchen. i'm in a similar situation: we just moved into a new (old) house...all the way down to the green laminate countertops. any idea how much the rennovation set her back?
Posted by: dani | January 09, 2009 at 11:16 AM
Yes- I fell in love with her kitchen (and LR!) in that last issue. I'm still really searching for my new favorite magazine... (I can't believe how much Cottage Living ending has upset me!)
Posted by: Lauren | January 09, 2009 at 11:24 AM
EEeeeeeek! I just fell in LOVE with a kitchen. I have similar tile waiting to be installed as a backsplash in my kitchen - I can't wait. Wowsa, what a beauty!!
Posted by: Teresa | January 09, 2009 at 11:30 AM
are you sure that's the same kitchen???? I can't believe how different it looks and they didn't have to demo anything.... I love everything about this new kitchen! Gives me hope for my own that with a little (lot) money it can be nice! :)
Posted by: Jessica | January 09, 2009 at 11:30 AM
That shelf along the bottom of the cabinets is to die for. And that butcher block counter... impeccable. This lady really does have amazing style, for realz.
Posted by: Kim | January 09, 2009 at 11:41 AM
That kitchen is stunning!! And the whole moving-the-cabinets up? Genius!! I dare say, the whole thing is even more "Urban Grace" than "Cottage Living"?? You two are kindred spirits. Long-lost design twins? You should join forces and rule the world!!
Posted by: Annmarie | January 09, 2009 at 11:59 AM
When I saw her kitchen renovation in CL, I read it from start to finish, studied each image and detail, and loved every second of it! The pendants are divine, and the shelf under the upper cabinets is perfect for the petite like me. Love it all! When can we see the rest of the house?!
Posted by: megan | January 09, 2009 at 12:05 PM
such great details. love the subway tile, the butcherblock counter, and the cabinet color. although i'm too short to have this kitchen :( and if my microwave was on top of my fridge i don't think i'd ever be able to make anything! ha!
Posted by: beth | January 09, 2009 at 01:17 PM
What a gorgeous kitchen! I fell in love with that space when I saw it in Cottage Living. I suggested raising our cabinets to my husband as well, but he pointed out that with our very high ceilings, raising the cabinets would require a ladder just to reach the upper shelves. ~sigh~
I love the idea of painting the bottom cabinets a darker color. I love that look!
Posted by: McGee | January 09, 2009 at 02:15 PM
i have had the biggest crush on that kitchen since seeing it in cottage living. love it!
Posted by: paula | January 09, 2009 at 02:17 PM
I loved this kitchen renovation and I am mourning the loss of Cottage Living. Do you have any idea where Anne Turner is headed next? I saw that Haskell Harris is blogging at Garden and Gun.
Posted by: Mary Bennett | January 09, 2009 at 02:28 PM
Oh my husband is in so much trouble :). I have been telling him that we could do this exact thing with our kitchen....now I have proof! Absolutely gorgeous, and I too am so sad about losing Cottage Living.
Posted by: lauren | January 09, 2009 at 02:37 PM
Oh that's spectacular!! My kingdom for a restoration hardware here in Australia. A-M xx
Posted by: A-M | January 09, 2009 at 02:48 PM
I absolutely LOVE it! Beautiful!!! Now I want to see every room in the whole house!
Posted by: Meg | January 09, 2009 at 02:52 PM
Oh, Erika! This is amazing. I love the contrasting cabinets on the top and bottom. That's genius!
Posted by: Abby | January 09, 2009 at 03:03 PM
This is AMAZING!!!!
This is exactly what my dream kitchen looks like (in my head, anyway)... I love it and I am totally saving these photos in my file!
Thanks for sharing. :)
Posted by: Jessie | January 09, 2009 at 03:18 PM
Oh my gosh. What a small [design] world. I coveted over this spread in Cottage Living, and saved the tiny pictures I could find on their website into my photobucket. I was just thinking earlier this week how I wish I had larger photos, because I plan on doing the duel-toned cabinets in a future kitchen. (Yes, I plan decor in homes I don't even own yet).
THANK YOU! I'm so utterly jealous of the creative and talented people you have in your life (and the talent you have as well). Is it too late to become an interior designer at the ripe age of 25? Hmmm...
Posted by: Bryn | January 09, 2009 at 03:37 PM
Impeccable timing. I've been trying to convince the husband to tear through our low-kitch ceiling. You've helped me win the argument that we can actually retain our current cabinets AND get more storage space via a shelf below them.
A huge bummer about Cottage Living. I appreciate you letting us know where the different staffers end up so we can continue to follow their ideas.
Posted by: Devon | January 09, 2009 at 03:44 PM
OMG, its seriously perfect! If I ever had to think about the perfect kitchen, this would be it. I LOVE everything about it, its beau-TI-ful!!!
Posted by: lindsb | January 09, 2009 at 04:53 PM
I have definitely pulled this out already for my tiny kitchen that one day I hope to re-do. I am a first time commenter but I love your blog and I am an Auburn girl too! Keep it up!
Posted by: Carrie | January 09, 2009 at 04:56 PM
Off the top of your head (no since in thinking too hard) can you think of any similar cabinet colors by Benjamin Moore? I absolutely love the combo, but BM is all my little town carries.
Posted by: Mary Grace | January 09, 2009 at 04:58 PM
There's not much more I could say about this one... everyone above me has taken my words. It's an absolutely beautiful renovation and I would love to stop by and visit with AT in her kitchen. We would have hot tea and lemon scones {don't worry, I'll bring it all with me} and I won't bring any of my kids.... the only thing Turner would have to agree to is showing me the rest of her lovely cottage. I've seen what I believe is the LR with the beautiful collection of art work above the sofa {also featured in CL}! I hope that AT can bring all of her style, class and love for a renovation to her new job and perhaps that will convince me to purchase a subscription! Thanks for sharing Sister! And you too AT! I love it! When can I come?!
Posted by: Darby | January 09, 2009 at 05:16 PM
What a phenomenal renovation! Her kitchen looks absolutely gorgeous now.
Posted by: Paloma of La Dolce Vita | January 09, 2009 at 05:19 PM
Absolutely stunning! Definite inspiration...
thanks for sharing. The images on your blog always inspire me.
Posted by: N. | January 09, 2009 at 05:25 PM
I loved this feature because it wasn't a crazy rip everything to the studs and spend 100 grand kind of thing. This is exactly what our kitchen needs. She did a beautiful job. Hopefully, she'll land somewhere safe and sound!
Posted by: Mrs. Blandings | January 09, 2009 at 07:07 PM
I love this kitchen and dining room as well. I will get the chance to enjoy both when I get to B'ham tomorrow. Turner is not only a good decorator, she is one AWESOME sister in law. (love that Neal as well)
Posted by: Melissa Thornell | January 09, 2009 at 07:20 PM
wait wait wait...is her maiden name thornell?? if so..I TOTALLY KNOW HER AND WENT TO HIGH SCHOOL WITH HER!!! i knew i recognized her. she did a super great job. i believe by "knowing you two" i may have just elevated my personal style credit...by association. very cool. and i want that copper bread box.
Posted by: Becky | January 09, 2009 at 08:12 PM
Definitely more than your typical before & after- this is amazing! Its a gorgeous, and I'm sure much appreciated, kitchen!!!
Thanks for sharing the specs. I love the paint colors, and its always so helpful to see them in a room setting!
Posted by: alice | January 09, 2009 at 08:55 PM
Uhh, if I wasn't so darn short I would be emptying my cabinets as we speak. I might just have to mark this post to enjoy the pics on a dreary day. Thanks for sharing.
Posted by: Jenny | January 09, 2009 at 09:03 PM
OH MY GOODNESS!! I love this kitchen! WOW- can I do the same thing?! I was just telling my love today as I was cleaning the top of the cabinets I wish we would have gotten the taller cabinets. The space was wasted and collects dust.
To paint cabinets- do you need to have a professional do this? Doesn't the paint chip? How are the bottom open shelves staying on the wall?
Sorry I don't mean to ask all of these questions and for you to answer them. I'm just so darn excited on this kitchen! To know I can redo our kitchen without spending a whole lot of dollars. Yahoo...
Have a golden weekend my friend! xoxo
Posted by: Joyce | January 09, 2009 at 09:16 PM
Love the color palate, and the different choice of finishes for the upper and lower cabinetry. Beadboard ceiling very interesting.
Posted by: Fabulous Finishes | January 09, 2009 at 11:21 PM
That is so funny because I am reading along and thinking wait---I just saw that in a magazine...and here it is your friend. Beautifully done! Love shelf.
Posted by: Kim Swales | January 09, 2009 at 11:28 PM
Love it!!! That Anne Turner can NOT possibly be from Dothan! :-) She is so stinkin' hip. I can't wait to copy that cabinet raising idea when I get the chance. Absolutely beautiful!!
Posted by: Hillary | January 10, 2009 at 12:50 AM
very, very, very, very lovely
Posted by: karlene | January 10, 2009 at 12:55 AM
What an amazing transformation. I love before and after images!
Thank you for providing the product information. Wall color is always a challenge for me. It is always nice to see what a color actually looks like in a complete room. Farrow and Ball colors are my favorite.
Have a lovely weekend.
xo
Brooke
Posted by: velvet and linen | January 10, 2009 at 09:06 AM
I love her work and have been following everything she's done that's been in Cottage Living. Too bad they are now defunct. Did she lose her job or get to stay with Southern Progress with one of the other publications? She is so talented.
Posted by: Tiffany Polmatier | January 10, 2009 at 10:33 AM
Love this! So cool about the Washington Post, happy new year! xo Abbey
Posted by: Abbey Goes Design Scouting | January 10, 2009 at 11:22 AM
How wonderful for me to see this on one of my favorite people, Anne Turner! I had already seen the redo of course and think it is absolutely FABULOUS! Anne Turner is one of the most talented desigers I know....and Such a great person to top it off! Wonderful, wonderful post, Erika! I am forwarding it to mom, Nancy, just in case she hasn't seen it!
Posted by: Lee Moates | January 10, 2009 at 01:49 PM
Very clever, in fact ingenious. I have never seen cabinets raised like that! I love the look of cabinets that go all the way to the ceiling, and quickly glanced over at my own cabinets that are not all the way to the top, and are in need of a paint job. Alas, I am too short to manage it.
Posted by: Things That Inspire | January 10, 2009 at 02:23 PM
I love this kitchen and blogged about it as soon as I saw it! There are so many little details I love about it. I am in the process of finishing up painting my den which sure seems to be a similar shade to her fabulous dining room. I want that chandelier ;)I remember her living room as well. Maybe (hint) you could do a series on her other rooms ;). Please let us know where she lands next. She is so talented.
Posted by: no.35style | January 10, 2009 at 03:25 PM
I didn't see the last issue so I was so excited to see this post!!
AT did a fabulous job - I can hardly believe the transformation.
Very proud of my fellow graduates!
Posted by: joy | January 10, 2009 at 04:14 PM
AWESOME! I grew up with AT and she's always been amazing - just like her momma! I would love to see it in person! AT, if you read this - click on my name and comment on my blog and let me know how to get in touch with you girl! Great job, love the high cabinets, but given I'm 5 ft tall, would NEVER work for me!!!
Kellie Thompson Patton
Posted by: Kellie | January 10, 2009 at 04:15 PM
Love the cabinet color combo - do you know if they painted themselves or had them done professionally?
Posted by: JKB | January 11, 2009 at 10:22 AM