The Mad Dash - One Room Challenge Week 6

One Room Challenge

Jun 9

Week 1 | Week 2 | Week 3 | Week 4 | Week 5

Any big undertaking has its peaks and its valleys. If you've been watching my Instagram stories you probably guessed that, yup, I'm stressed! I'm trying my best to not fall into traps of comparison, though. I love following the #OneRoomChallenge tag on Instagram, and when I start to feel the familiar creep of worry, my coping strategy is to plot out my to-do list.

So for anyone else out there who is starting to worry about whether they'll finish their ORC project in time, I feel you! And I believe in you! I go to sleep super worn out every day, but I go to sleep feeling proud that I put in the energy that I had to give. This week I friggin learned how to hang drywall, for crying out loud!!

My car is basically my storage closet at this point.

Changes on the horizon

I mentioned last week that my initial tile vendor fell through. Thankfully, Fireclay Tile came to my rescue! My 2x8 tile arrived yesterday and I can't wait to install it. This was by far the largest design change I've had to make thus far. My mood board initially started with a high-gloss, 4x4 tile, and this new direction makes me feel really happy.

Another giant pivot? The island. I went with wood-toned cover panels from Ikea mostly for ease – it was a much more simple option (and cheaper, given wood prices right now) versus a DIY slatted look. That was a relatively minor change in comparison to what's going on top of it though. I went to pick up a butcher block countertop from a big name tile and flooring store in the area. After driving an hour to get there, I was horrified by my pickup order. I know "natural variations may occur" is a thing often found in product listings. But y'all... this thing was a nightmare! (Pictured above.) I cancelled my order and drove the hour back home empty-handed. I'm still not entirely sure that I'll like what I ended up with, but I'm glad I didn't bring the gross one home with me.

The finish line is in sight

I'm heading to California for my youngest brother's college graduation this weekend. I'm excited to spend time with family and to finally eat a GOOD burrito again, and I'm also nervous about taking time away during crunch time. Art and decor pieces have started to arrive and my goodness it makes me feel excited to think about installing everything.

It's taking all of my self-control to not hang up my custom roman shades from Calico. I picked them up (along with fabric for a banquette cushion) last weekend and my goodness. They're stunning! Being among bolts of fabric and delightful upholstery was deeply inspiring, and I can't recommend Calico more. They've been such a wonderful partner and I'm grateful that they're one of my sponsors.

But enough about my anxiety! Lol. Go check out the other Featured Designers' progress on their blogs!