If you follow our Instagram, you have seen photos of Shauna's home renovation, but it's been a while since we've given you a peek in to the before photos and all the juicy details. Plus, well, there were some itty bitty finishing things that needed to happen in the kitchen, like doors and trim and paint, before we were ready to say "ta-dah!". That and there were no floors for a good 4 weeks. So, here is everything you ever wanted to know about Shauna's kitchen and dining area.
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Kitchen before

So, bones are pretty good, right? Layout works, just needs some paint, new floor and to "Shauna" it up a little. 

Kitchen After

The biggest expense was to add the Terrazzo tile floor. Made in the USA by Terrazzio, it had a lead time of about 6 weeks but it was totally worth the wait. Original laminate countertops were switched out for white quartz from Vicostone and where there was no backsplash, a snowy white glass one was added. The all white palette allowed for some super fun color pops in the Big Chill appliances and the orange glass subway tile behind the cooktop.
​Terrazzo floor: Terrazzio Sterling White
Countertops: Vicostone
White tile backsplash: Tile Shop
Orange tile backsplash: Wayfair
Appliances: Big Chill
Faucet: Lulani
​Lighting: Wayfair
​Rug: purchased in Morocco, similar here

Dining Space Before

I mean, we work here every day and these windows are fabulous. Shauna felt the second set of wall ovens here were unneccesary (there are double ovens to the left of the fridge). So it became the perfect place for a wine refrigerator and additional storage for her vast amounts of vintage barware. Painting the cabinets this bright turquoise not only separates the space visually but brings Shauna's signature colors to play in the room. 

Dining Area After

Note that the dining chairs are not fully sitting on the rug. We get this question all the time and yes, that is OK. A bigger rug would not have fit in this space so we just had to make it work! 

Cabinet paint: Biscay by Sherwin Williams
Table: All Modern
Chairs: CB2
Rug: Aelfie
Lighting: All Modern
Dr Pepper art: Sort of Cool Art

You thought we forgot, didn't you? Last year, we got a jump start on the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale and shared our favorites even before the sale was live to the general public. OK, so yes, we are a little behind the 8 ball this year, but technically, the sale starts tomorrow, and there are still plenty of amazing things to make your COVID Summer a little brighter and happier. You'll notice it IS a COVID friendly selection; no high heels, no binding clothes, nothing too "fancy". We know most of us are still staying somewhat close to home but I mean, those sneakers you've been wearing ARE wearing out and how cute would your summer charcuterie dinner be on this adorable pineapple cutting board? 

1. Dash & Ash Pineapple Cutting Board Worthy of a display space on your kitchen counter.
​2. Voluspa Pink Citron 2 Wick Candle Spicy and sweet, it's the fragrance of summer.
3.Eileen Fisher Lace Espadrille A step up from sneakers but just as comfy. Assorted colors. 
4. Colors of Morocco Art Print We can all use a virtual vacay!
​5. Work Hard Graphic Tee Words to live by. Today and every day. Captain Casual would be all in. 
6. Textured Dot Duvet Cover A bedding refresh does wonders for lifting your spirits. 
7. Tulip 139 Perforated Sneaker From Ilse Jacobsen, these are Shauna's latest go-to sneaks. 
​8. Madewell Fringe Hoop Earrings Glam up that white T you find yourself wearing at least once a week. 
9. FRAME Les Second Mini Crossbody Bag The perfect size for all your essentials in an easy to carry crossbody. 
So, the details: 
Nordstrom Anniversary Sale runs Aug 19-30 in store and online. New merch added daily so be sure to shop often. 
This post contains affiliate links and we are compensated for purchases made via these links.
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Amy is one of those artists that have been an SGD favorite for a while now. We love her abstract art, her bubbly personality and maybe more than anything, her amazing home. Located in the Crestwood area of Fort Worth, it is a space that feels very "California bungalow hosts an artist retreat in 1972". Airy and bright with natural elements, outdoor living spaces and chock full of collectibles and vintage treasures, it is also the perfect backdrop for her big and bold canvases. Recently, a feature home location for 360 West Magazine fell through and Shauna was contacted to crowdsource another home. We immediately thought of Amy's and you can see the final feature in the August 2020 Cool Issue. 

SGD: Can you briefly walk us through your story? How you started and how you got to where you are today?
AY: I am from the South and grew up in a family of artistic people. Art supplies were put into my hands from the get-go! When I was a child many people taught art classes out of their garages or in their homes and my mother would sign me up for every single one! One month I might be on a pottery wheel and the next creating oil paintings of historical buildings. When I attended The University of Alabama I fell in love with the art department and took as many art classes as possible. Since then I’ve continued to create and grow as an artist through workshops where I have studied under many well-known artists.

SGD: Has it been a smooth road? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
AY: It was not always a smooth road!  In the beginning, I did all kinds of art because I was afraid to do what I really wanted to do. My dream was to create extra large, abstract oil paintings. One day I broke through that fear by taking a canvas and tons of art supplies up on to a golf course behind the home we were living in. I made a promise to myself that I would not stop until a large piece was completed. I never looked back from that day!!
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SGD: What are you most proud of and what sets you apart from other artist?
AY: I am most proud of the fact that I never gave up and that I have had the ability to adapt and learn almost every aspect of the art business.
I think what sets me apart is that I do so many different types of paintings but all are uniquely me. Some pieces are soft and calming and others are super colorful and full of energy. Because of this wide variety often times clients, designers and galleries are able to place multiple pieces in one location. I also absolutely love meeting the clients and visiting their homes. I have worked with the most unbelievably kind people. Knowing that my art is loved and enjoyed by them is such a blessing to me! I would also say that my work ethic sets me apart. Some days I will work 16 hours straight and enjoy every minute. I am constantly exploring new methods and ideas that God has given to me!

​SGD: What advice would you give to someone at the start of his or her career?
AY: My advice for someone who is just starting their art career....

• Never give up!
• Be inspired by others but do not copy them. 
• Give back and help other artists get established in the art world.
• Have fun!
• Let your art tell your story!
• Find an older art mentor and become a mentor to younger artists.
• Be bold and create things that will make others feel alive and joyful!

SGD: What artists do YOU admire and why?
AY: Cy Twombly, Jose Parla,  Jean-Michel Basquiat, Joan Mitchell and Mark Bradford are the artist that have consistently inspired and influenced me as an artist. It is their mark-making ability and graffiti/street art quality that I love the most.

SGD: If you weren’t an artist, what would you be?
AY: In addition to being an artist I am interested in architecture, interior design, filmmaking, writing and illustrating children’s books and someday owning my own art gallery.
I am currently working on a children’s book about rainbows and my paintings will be the illustrations.  

Where to find Amy: 
Website: www.amyoungart.gallery
Facebook: Amy Young
Instagram: @amyoungart
Contact: amyoungart@gmail.com
Know an artist that we need to spotlight! Email us with your suggestions!