Hi Everyone,

The day has finally arrived! After six weeks of slowly sharing the ups and downs of my One Room Challenge, I am so excited to reveal our gorgeous new roof deck. It was a complete transformation from a drab, lackluster roof deck into the fabulousness that it is today...take a look!

With the weather warming up, I am already enjoying evening sunsets and sun kissed weekends, and there’s only more to come with summer upon us.Let’s take a trip down (short-term) memory lane, shall we?

Starting with ample space during Week I, I spent a good amount of time simply thinking about what I could do with the space. Since a roof deck is unique in our part of town, I really wanted to do something special with it. Drawing inspiration from both the east and west coast, I landed on the idea to create a space that conjured visions of classic rooftop terraces in urban east coast cities, then combine them with coastal California vibes.

Specifically, this shot from my Á la Plage series became my muse for that west coast moment.

With my mind made up, it was time to get to work! Measurements were taken, inspiration photos were pinned and last but not least, my outreach began to like minded brands to partner with on this fun project. In fact, I’d like to take a moment to offer my many thanks to Farrow & Ball,Stori Modern, Fabricut and Frontgate...who if not for them, I would most likely still be at square one!

STEP I: FILL THE SPACE

I knew I wanted large furniture to really fill the space, as well as provide ample seating options for guests. The Stori Modern Script Collection was just the right size and style for the space.

As luck would have it, Stori Modern’s delivery service was delightfully accurate. I had anticipated having a bit more time before it arrived, but I’m so thankful that I didn’t as seeing all of the furniture in place gave me a new perspective. Specifically, I changed direction on what I wanted to do with the surrounding seating area.

STEP II: REFINE THE VISION

Originally, I had planned to design large custom cushions for the flat bench area that lines one largewall as well as part of another to create lounging areas. However, I quickly assessed that would no longer be needed as our new outdoor furniture provided more than enough seating. Reflecting back on my initial concept of east coast meets west, I realized that I had an opportunity to really bring the east coast accents to life. Enter:Frontgate.

I found countless options of (faux) plants, decorative pots, chic lanterns, cozy throws and last but not least, this fun nautical rug.

With all of the accessories coming together, I was feeling very happy with the decor direction. I kept thinking about designing something custom, though. Pivoting from the bench cushion, I landed on designing my own throw pillows to add that oh so necessary splash of color.

Enter Fabricut, who I became familiar with via One Room Challenge, as they are graciously working with myself and other One Room Challenge participants to fulfill their fabric wishes.

STEP III - MORE COLOR

Aren't they pretty?After consulting with the Fabricut specialist as well as our upholster, I landed on six unique styles, which I customized in a variety of sizes.

Next, I added in more accessories that will come and go, depending on the occasion and weather.

As I mentioned in last week’s post, I have long wanted to figure out a way to hang artwork in an outdoor space. This spot on the deck is perfect, as it's shaded from the sun as well as the rain. Essentially, I am thinking of it in the same vein as a seasonal piece of artwork, in that it comes out as often as possible, or as a rotating piece of art.

Then, of course, our acrylic trays will be making appearances for all gatherings, big or small.

STEP V: PRIVACY

In Week III, I realized that I needed to do something along this wall. Although, we don't look directly into our neighbor's home, keeping this space open left me feeling a bit exposed. Thus, I opted to continue the organic moment from the bench to the back wall. Three sets of the Triple Cedars from Frontgate did just the trick!

FINAL STEP: ENJOY!

Let the entertaining, begin!

Thank you so much to Linda, the organizer and fearless leader of One Room Challenge, as well as our media sponsor, Traditional Home. It has been such a blast participating in this celebrated decor challenge! I have so enjoyed being part of it and wish to send lots of congrats to all of my fellow ORC Participants. Thanks again to Stori Modern, Fabricut,Farrow & Ball, andFrontgate for your stunning products, and last but certainly, not least...THANK YOU for following along.

Cheers,

Xx

GM

Be sure to check out the final reveals of all of the other Talented One Room Challenge Participants:

Apartment 34|Beginning in the Middle|Coco & Jack|The English Room|The Gold Hive

Gray Malin|Jenna Sue Design|Jojotastic|Kelly Rogers Int. |Linda Holt|Marcus Design

Michelle Gage|Natasha Habermann|The Painted House|Rambling Renovators

Sacramento Street|Shannon Claire|Sketch 42|Stephanie Kraus|Bisou Style

Media PartnerHouse Beautiful| TM byORC