Can you believe it is already this time of year again? Our bi-annual designer dash to the finish line has begun again this week as designers from all over North America band together and face the One Room Challenge head on. Six weeks to totally transform a space? Yes, it’s utter madness, but also the best darn catalyst for getting things done ever invented. Huge thanks to Linda from Calling It Home for creating this brilliant online design event, and huge thanks to all of you for tuning in to watch it all unfold!
I can’t dive into this fifth round (for me) without taking a moment to review with gratitude the four ORC’s that have gone before.
MY PREVIOUS ONE ROOM CHALLENGE SPACES
THIS EDITION’S FEATURE PROJECT + A BIT OF MY STORY
Having transformed a number of spaces in my own home, this Spring 2017 edition of the One Room Challenge takes an unexpected turn as I dive into transforming a brand new natural wellness centre for my brilliant naturopath Dr. Amber Merrick! How on earth did I come to choose this project for the One Room Challenge, you ask? Well, the answer to that question also answers the question of why I’ve been rather MIA on the blog and Instagram recently. I was recently diagnosed with Lyme Disease, and through that diagnosis I found Amber. (If you want to learn more about my health journey, come find me on YouTube at The Curated Life by Sarah Walker). When Amber shared with me that she was launching a brand new wellness centre, I naturally raised my hand and said “pick me!” to help with the design!
THE INSPIRATION
To me, a place of healing should feel more like a spa than a clinic. It should feel inspiring and hopeful and aspirational. The environment should make you want to be there as much as the lovely doctor herself! Needless to say, I had more than a little bit of personal motivation behind my offer to help Amber accomplish that goal with Docere, as I have been and will continue to be spending a lot of time with her as I work on kicking Lyme to the curb! So here’s to creating a healing environment that will serve the hearts and lives of many others in the months and years to come.
Here’s what our inspiration looks like:
THE BEFORE PHOTOS
And here, my friends, is the commercial and cold before in all its uninspired glory:
I can just feel the fluorescent lighting and drywall dust chilling my bones! But what is a good reveal without a scary before to light a fire under this designer’s behind, right? I can’t wait to get to the after! For now, there is much to be done. Floors to be installed. Finishes to be finalized. Panel moulding to be installed and the whole place to be painted. Cabinets, counters, sinks and faucets to be installed. Cabinetry hardware to be selected and installed. Artwork to be selected and installed…and the list goes on! It will be so inviting when it’s done, but for now we’re in that messy middle that can never be avoided. Here’s to the other side, my friends!
Be sure to check back with me next week for an update on our progress and some of the decisions to be made! In the meantime, check out the other amazing projects being transformed in this edition of the One Room Challenge here and here.
Wishing you all a weekend filled with health and happiness!
Sarah, you have made so many beautiful spaces for this challenge! I can not wait to see your range in this office design. I wish my doc’s office would be inspirational and make me feel like I am at a spa. Also, you know my love for you and I am so proud of you for sharing today. Struggles only make us stronger. xoxo
You, my friend, are such a treasure. Thank you for your kind and beautiful heart. You create beauty in the world in so many ways, and design is just one of them! I truly cannot wait to see what you do with your Conneticut Cutie! I just know it will be drool-worthy, jaw-dropping and ultra glamorous! Love you. xoxx
Thanks for sharing your story and I so hope you’re feeling much, much better!!! xo
Love your plans for the spa and can’t wait to follow along- the rooms you do are always so incredibly beautiful!
You are so kind – thank you, Christine! The same is true for you…I can’t wait to see you work your magic on that basement! If anyone can turn those challenges into beautiful features, it’s you, girl! xx
Sarah, thank you for sharing your story of Lyme Disease. I hope you’re feeling better and give you huge kudos for taking ORC on again after all that you’ve been through. You’re so talented and I’m always inspired by your work! I can’t wait to see what you do my friend. Let’s do this! XOXO, Sarah
Thank you so much for being such an endless encouragement, Sarah! So grateful to have you with me for the ride! xx
Thanks for sharing your story and wish you the best of luck during this ORC time. You are incredibly talented and I look forward to seeing how this all turns out. Feel well. xo
Thanks so much, Mary! xx
So sorry to learn about your diagnosis. I hope you feel well!!!
I look so forward to seeing you work your magic. You have inspired me in the past in so many ways. I wish you health as you take on this journey.
I’m so sorry to hear of your struggles with your health. I am sure this space will be as beautiful as the other rooms in your home that you have done in the past. ?
I hope you’re feeling better, Sarah! Your previous challenge rooms are absolutely beautiful, so I am looking forward to seeing this one progress as well!!