Taraji P. Henson surprises her stepmother, Angie, with a home renovation. The house, located in Maryland, holds sentimental value as it was where Taraji's father, a metal fabricator and artist, lived with Angie. After his passing in 2006, Angie was left alone in the house. Taraji enlists the help of interior designer Stephanie Gamble, whom she finds on the design platform Houzz. Stephanie and Taraji work together to create a design plan, incorporating Angie's favorite color, red, and preserving Taraji's father's artwork. The renovation transforms the living room, dining room, and kitchen, making the space more open and airy. Angie is overwhelmed with emotion when she sees the finished renovation, feeling grateful and blessed by Taraji's thoughtful gift.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Taraji P. Henson is the narrator of the story.
2. Taraji considers Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia to be her home.
3. She was born and raised in this area, and most of her family still lives there.
4. Taraji's dad was an artist and a metal fabricator.
5. Her dad passed away in 2006, leaving behind her stepmom, Angie.
6. Taraji wants to renovate Angie's house as a surprise gift.
7. She uses a website or platform called Houzz to design her dream home and find interior designers and products.
8. Taraji hires a designer named Stephanie Gamble to help with the renovation.
9. The renovation plans include removing a wall to create an open living space, updating the kitchen, and adding a sliding glass door.
10. Taraji's cousin, Nikki, will be overseeing the renovation and working with Stephanie.
11. The renovation starts with demo work, which includes removing the wall and the old kitchen cabinets.
12. The new kitchen will feature a two-tone cabinet, with dark gray on the bottom and white on top.
13. The cabinets will go all the way up to the ceiling, and the countertops will be made of quartz.
14. The renovation also includes updating the dining room, including a new table and chairs.
15. The floors will be refinished to match the original floors.
16. Angie is surprised with the renovated house, and she is overwhelmed with emotion.
17. The renovation is a success, and Angie loves her new home.
18. Taraji feels happy and fulfilled that she could give back to her stepmom, Angie.