The One Room Challenge, an eight-week nationwide room renovation and blog challenge, invites DIY enthusiasts to embark on projects transforming any room in their homes. This year, Rachel Schoemer (@well_shetried) and her husband, Andrew, undertook the challenge to revamp their screened porch. Previously adorned in worn-out browns, the porch featured a dilapidated screen door, chipped paint, and a dingy carpet, leaving much to be desired.
A Vision for Light and Nature
Despite its lackluster state, the porch held promise, boasting a captivating view of the backyard. Rachel aspired to convert this neglected space into a bright, airy haven—blurring the lines between indoor comfort and outdoor serenity. Determined to merge the cozy appeal of a living room with the refreshing ambiance of nature, Rachel envisioned a significant makeover.
The Transformation Unfolds
Rachel’s first stride towards this transformation involved a paint palette. Sanding away peeling paint, she coated the walls in Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace (white) and the trim in a khaki-green hue (Benjamin Moore’s Soft Fern). This color infusion breathed new life into the space, setting the stage for further enhancements.
The Impactful Ceiling Upgrade
Recognizing the importance of a harmonious ceiling, Rachel and Andrew introduced budget-friendly beadboard panels overhead. Their installation, coupled with LED lights replacing the old fixtures, proved to be a transformative surprise. The beadboard ceiling, initially an impromptu decision to conceal the deteriorating surface, emerged as Rachel’s favorite element, imparting a farmhouse aesthetic to the porch.
Flooring Facelift and Clever DIY Additions
Banishing the dingy carpet revealed the deck underneath, which Rachel refreshed with paint, enhancing the overall appeal. DIY additions included a hand-built cabinet for the TV, a fishing rod holder, and rustic flower boxes, all crafted from 6-foot cedar fence boards. Rachel’s resourcefulness and cost-effective approach added a personalized touch to the porch’s rustic charm.
A Cozy Finale
Rachel’s journey through the One Room Challenge led her to reconsider the existing furniture, eventually opting for pre-loved pieces from Facebook Marketplace. The porch’s final transformation showcases a cozy and luminous outdoor living space. Rachel expresses her satisfaction, stating, “Whether it’s to read a book, watch TV, or have a glass of wine, it feels bright and clean.”
In the realm of DIY triumphs, Rachel Schoemer’s screened porch stands as a testament to the impactful outcomes achievable even on a budget.
