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    Home » DIY Projects

    One Room Challenge, Week 2: How We Got Here and More Planning Details

    Published: Apr 10, 2014 by Simple Stylings · This post may contain affiliate links · 45 Comments

    Good morning and welcome back to Week 2 of the One Room Challenge. If you missed the initial post you can read it here.

    I don't know about you but I am so excited about Week 2 of the ORC! I love seeing the inspirational plans and progress of all the contestants and the link ups! If you need the link to all the contestants posts you can head over to Calling It Home and check them out.

    ORClink

    As you probably know from all of the social media teasing I have been working on my office/studio makeover for months now. I am still working on it and I promise it is so close and I will be sharing the reveal soon!

    I don't think I realized it until now but I am a major planner when it comes to a space that I am really invested in {not applicable to DIY projects} so this week for my ORC post I am going to give you a little photo tour of how we got to where we are with the deck and more detailed plans.

    Another reason I am spending a lot of time planning this out is because we are headed to Tybee Island, GA for spring break on Saturday so I am going to miss a big chunk of work time. So I thought if I could plan and source everything on paper then I can hit the ground running when we get back.

    Here is the design plan again from my inspiration board I shared last week.

    OB-ORC deck

    I have started and finished a couple DIY projects already though so I'm looking forward to sharing those with you during Week 3.

    So here is a little photo tour of our deck build. I should have a whole series called Dad's DIY, dedicated to all the projects that my Dad does for me around my house :) I know he has been anxious to see this post on the blog so here's to all your hard work, Dad, you're the best! Oh yeah, and we still have to stain this thing! I am a good project manager, right???

    Also, there isn't going to be a tutorial on how to build a deck, sorry, I just didn't pay that much attention :( But feel free to leave any questions in the comment section and I will be happy to get answers for you as best I can!

    Here is the before. Don't mind everything strewn across the yard :) Yuck, right?!

    IMG_1020

    Removing the steps and railings.

    IMG_1023

    Hanging the support boards.

    IMG_1070

    Digging holes for the posts.

    IMG_1238

    Papa's little helper.

    IMG_1243

    Is he not the cutest in his element!

    IMG_1068  

    Progress.

    IMG_1246

     

    Cutting posts to size. 

    IMG_1420

     

    The floor is down and railings are almost finished. 

    IMG_2088

    Finishing the steps and railings.

    IMG_2280

    And here it is. We finished up just before the holidays so needless to say I've been anxious to decorate and use this space.

    We still have to pressure wash and stain it but isn't gorgeous!!! Dad, you're amazing!!!

    IMG_5767

    So here's the to do list:

    1. Stain and pressure wash the deck.

    2. Paint the awning and door trim and touch up the door.

    3. Sell current table and chairs on craigslist and hunt for an awesome deal on furniture. {in progress}

    4. Buy Tiki torches and mount them: from Home Depot.

    5. Paint the chiminea and base. {in progress}

    6. Find/build two side tables: using nautical spool side table and a DIY stump table

    7.  Find and hang an arts and crafts style light fixture.

    8. Purchase rug, outdoor pouf and pillows: Target.

    9. Figure out grill placement.

    10. Build or hunt for a vintage cooler/and or bar cart.

    11. DIY upcycled marquee anchor.

    12. Hang string lights: from Target.

    13. Find pots/planters and decide on plants.

    14. Shop our home and thrift stores for styling accessories.

    15. Throw a PARTAY!!! {this is my favorite part!}

    It seems like a long list but I'm feeling pretty good about it so far. Ask me again during weeks 5 and 6 :)

    So here are just a few pics of what needs to be tackled and some purchases I've made to get a few of those things out of the way.

    Painting is desperately needed and a new light fixture, wouldn't you agree? What is that wimpy little thing anyway?

    IMG_5771

     

    And what about the door where my dogs scratch? I just painted the doors in the fall!

       IMG_5772

    And the comes the fun stuff...

                  IMG_5790

     And the pretty stuff...

      IMG_5787

     I hope you're enjoying all of the room makeovers and maybe its even inspiring you to do a little spring refreshing in your own homes.

    We are headed out of town for spring break next week and I'm going to try and take a much needed break but make sure to look for a few DIY projects for Week 3 of the ORC. I will post some Tybee Island fun on social media too so make sure to follow along.

    You can find all of the linking participants Week 2 posts here so head on over and check 'em out!

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Bethany @ Dwellings By DeVore

      April 14, 2014 at 1:43 pm

      wow, your dad is amazing!!

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 14, 2014 at 9:35 pm

        Thanks Bethany! He really is :)

        Reply
    2. Tricia

      April 12, 2014 at 4:45 pm

      I love the direction you're going - looks so lovely. I've got the same tan set and I've been trying to decide on accent colors - love yours!!

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 12, 2014 at 10:48 pm

        Thanks so much Tricia!

        Reply
    3. Shelia

      April 11, 2014 at 10:35 pm

      I think it's great that you have taken time to plan properly. It helps me to put it on paper too! I love the deck! It's nice to have the help, I bet!

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 12, 2014 at 12:00 am

        Thanks so much Shelia! It is a big help :)

        Reply
    4. Sara @SL Designs

      April 11, 2014 at 8:55 pm

      That deck looks amazing, can't wait to see it all finished :)

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 12, 2014 at 12:04 am

        Thanks so much Sara!

        Reply
    5. [email protected]

      April 11, 2014 at 3:35 pm

      Agree, he is totally the cutest!
      Love your deck so far. Such a difference

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 12, 2014 at 12:04 am

        Thanks Julia!!

        Reply
    6. Darci

      April 11, 2014 at 2:36 pm

      This is amazing! The deck looks so good, you must be thrilled! And I feel your pain on the door scratches...I have four dogs who hate my door :/

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 12, 2014 at 12:06 am

        Thanks Darci!! Those dogs :)

        Reply
    7. Denise

      April 11, 2014 at 9:15 am

      Wow!! You got a lot done!! It must have been that cute helper!! Love your inspiration board. Can't wait to see it unfold :)

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 12, 2014 at 12:10 am

        Thanks Denise! He is a big helper :)

        Reply
    8. Paulina

      April 10, 2014 at 11:45 pm

      love love love your pillows! Great taste. Looking forward to your progress.

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 11, 2014 at 12:26 am

        Thanks Paulina!!

        Reply
    9. Paulina

      April 10, 2014 at 11:44 pm

      love love love your pillows! Great taste. Looking forward to your progress!

      Reply
    10. Emily

      April 10, 2014 at 11:11 pm

      I really like your style. Those pillows are gorgeous and go so well with that amazing rug. Gosh now I wish I had a deck to decorate in cuteness like. But for now I'm an apartment dweller. You are inspiring me to work on jazzing up one of our rooms.

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 11, 2014 at 12:27 am

        Thanks so much Emily! I'm really glad you stopped by :)

        Reply
    11. celine @aquahaus

      April 10, 2014 at 10:05 pm

      That deck is awesome!! Party time indeed. Also awesome is that dog! Can we see more pics??

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 11, 2014 at 12:38 am

        Thanks so much Celine! I can't wait to have a marg on it! That is funny, I didn't even notice my pup's photo bomb in both pics :) I'll definitely have to take some more of her!

        Reply
    12. [email protected]

      April 10, 2014 at 9:24 pm

      How fantastic to see an outdoor space! I didn't see you last week, but now I'm hooked ;-)

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 11, 2014 at 12:39 am

        Thanks so much for stopping by Carol! I can't wait to use it!

        Reply
    13. Stacey

      April 10, 2014 at 8:44 pm

      What a great extension to your home. I can't wait to see it all decorated. Our deck is a mess right now, so will be fun to get inspiration from yours.

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 11, 2014 at 12:43 am

        Thanks so much Stacey! I am so anxious for it to be done so we can enjoy the season!

        Reply
    14. Krystine @ www.Krystine.edwards.com

      April 10, 2014 at 8:34 pm

      That's awesome that y'all built this, it needed that deck- cannot wait to see more!

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 11, 2014 at 12:47 am

        Thanks so much Krystine!!

        Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 11, 2014 at 12:52 am

        I just looked up your site. That is SO cool you are in real estate in Charleston, SC! That is my favorite place in the world and we hope to move that way in the next 5-7 years. Seems like a long time but it's my dream :) My boyfriend is a realtor and real estate investor in Charlotte (as am I but I don't practice)! Maybe we will run into you sometime as we are down there a lot :)

        Reply
    15. Eris

      April 10, 2014 at 6:17 pm

      That deck is awesome and has my mind spinning on how I can make that work in my own yard!!! Wish I had that cute of a helper :)

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 11, 2014 at 12:48 am

        Thanks a bunch Eris! I'm so glad you stopped by :)

        Reply
    16. Kendra @ www.joyinourhome.com

      April 10, 2014 at 3:09 pm

      Your lil' guy is such a sweet lil helper! Your deck looks fabulous, Summer! It'll be all ready to enjoy all summer long! Can't wait to see what you do with this space!!

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 11, 2014 at 12:53 am

        Thanks so much Kendra! I am still catching up on email so I will be writing you back soon :)

        Reply
        • Kendra

          April 11, 2014 at 4:48 pm

          I totally understand Summer :) .... I know how busy life gets. I am new at this and it's keeping me on my toes so I can't imagine how busy it keeps you! Have a fabulous spring break! Ours starts next week on Friday! Counting down!

          Reply
    17. Angela, blue i style

      April 10, 2014 at 2:16 pm

      I'm the same when it comes to planning a space I'm really invested in, so I really enjoy seeing your planning process! It's going to be amazing when it's all done!

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 11, 2014 at 12:57 am

        Thanks so much Angela!

        Reply
    18. Jennifer @ Dimples and Tangles

      April 10, 2014 at 12:00 pm

      Aren't Dads the best? My Dad does a lot to help us too. I don't know what we'd do without him!

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 11, 2014 at 12:57 am

        Dads are the best, Jennifer, and little boys too :) Don't know what I'd do with out mine! Thanks for stopping by!

        Reply
    19. [email protected]

      April 10, 2014 at 11:42 am

      Wow, your dad and that adorable helper definitely know what they r doing!!! And I love the pretties you've got so far!

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 11, 2014 at 12:58 am

        Thanks so much Kate! They are the best :)

        Reply
    20. Beth

      April 10, 2014 at 10:06 am

      You gave yourself a full plate for sure!! It's going to look great and just in time for lounging all summer! I will be in Savannah this weekend too!

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 11, 2014 at 1:02 am

        Thanks Beth!! I can't wait for it to be done! We are going to be some tired puppies in 6 weeks :)

        Reply
    21. Linda @ Calling it Home

      April 10, 2014 at 8:32 am

      Your helper is the most adorable boy! This was an enormous project. It looks amazing, good luck with the staining.

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 11, 2014 at 1:03 am

        Thanks so much Linda, he is the best!!! It is a big project but I'm trying not to get overwhelmed...yet :) Hopefully I work better under pressure!

        Reply
    22. Mallory

      April 10, 2014 at 8:06 am

      I had no idea you guys BUILT the deck! This is so fun, that mood board kills me and just screams summertime and margaritas! Love it!

      Reply
      • Simple Stylings {For The Semi-Creative Mind}

        April 11, 2014 at 1:05 am

        Thanks Mallory! I did a lot of holding and serving drinks during the build! Can't wait to have you gals over for some margs!

        Reply

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    Hi, I'm Summer! The creator and voice behind the lifestyle blog, Simple Stylings. My goal is to help you create simple style in your home and life. I am passionate about budget decorating, stylish design, travel and healthy living

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