You will probably have no issue with me saying that these past 6 weeks have flown by. I mean, why would you? You’ve been watching all the ORC madness unfold from the comfort of wherever you read the blog. I’d have to agree with you though, short of a long afternoon spent waiting for a shadow to stretch across the backyard this ORC has been fairly painless. So here we are, week 6 of the One Room Challenge hosted by Linda of Calling It Home // here//. You can see the official participant reveals // here //. I’m excited to see a few of the reveals (The English Room, House of Brinson, Christine Dovey, Old Brand New), but will probably click-through to all of them. Make sure you circle back and check out the other linking participants // here // on thursday! We’ve all worked so hard this round, and everyone deserves a round of applause.
In completing the spaces I felt that the front step and the backyard – despite being designed together with each other in mind – are different spaces. As such, I’ll reveal the front step in all its glory on Friday.
*HomeSense, The Home Depot & Wayfair sponsored this post, but all thoughts are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that make PMQ for two possible.
If you haven’t been following along, you should head back to the beginning and click through all of the updates to see what and why we did what we did.
Week 1 – introduction
Week 2 – front step
Week 3 – back step
Week 4 – dining area
Week 5 – lounge area
// Week 6 – The Reveal //
I would be remiss if I didn’t extend a loud, boisterous and over-emotional thank you to HomeSense, The Home Depot & Wayfair for sponsoring me on this One Room Challenge. It was a pleasure working with them – as always – and the quality of the products we chose speaks for itself.
And now, without further ado, the great outdoors, starting with the lounge area! Everything but the food and fern were HomeSense finds, so you know the selection is top notch this year. The little bird house is actually meant to be hung much higher, but I’m hopping an endeavouring little bird will make its home there so that we can enjoy it too.
This area got a little makeover once I started putting things into place. I added more lights and a bar cart – we really needed the extra space for drinks and food, and it fits perfectly between the lounge and the BBQ in the corner against the fence. The giant fern helps fill the space while adding a needed pop of colour.
By moving the green lattice to behind the BBQ, we’re filling-up that huge Brown space and adding some greenery to an otherwise bare spot in the yard. The rose gold dipped string lights from HomeSense look magical when light-up at night.
The extra greenery and lawn ornaments on the stoop do well to create a lush and inviting entrance into the space. The ivy box is another HomeSense steal at 49.99$ (compared to 90$+) and it hides all the cords and wires that feed into the socket near the door – so really, we all need an ivy box for our back steps. Money well spent! The big blue bowl planter has got all manner of plants growing in it, and in a month or two it will look lush and bountiful.
The stripped garden stool changed sides and is now against the house and the cedar privacy screen. Another mega fern helps add colour and density to the step, while a kicky lantern provides more guiding light in the evenings. I don’t know what’s in the water out here but giant farms are par for the course, and they’re kinda funky.
Don’t ya just love the giant bald spot in our yard? Someone had a pool here before, and they killed the grass and earth beneath it so thoroughly that nothing grows! It’s an eyesore to say the least, and no grass seed will take, but at least everything around it makes up for it, right? We’ve got plans to add a giant rug of some sort, but we need to figure-out the grass situation with housing first.
I built a little privacy screen to go around our AC unit. Just because it’s an eyesore doesn’t mean I should have to look at it all summer. The cedar screen was an easy assembly and distracts from all the brown siding.
The inky blue plates and bowls were another HomeSense find. I spotted them in the store and practically ran to grab them. They pop so beautifully against the blue tray and the white tabletop, plus there’s something so fresh and summery about them. They kind of remind me of the bottom of a lake at the height of summer. The pink cutlery was a thrifted gem, and each cutlery set is sealed with some gingham ribbon.
Once the trees grow-in, we won’t see quite so much of our neighbours’ goings on. Until then, this is the view. Come on trees and tall grass! You can really see how much the pergola helps frame the space. It feels like its own little area, an extension of our home, and I cannot wait to entertain outside.
The chairs are from Canadian Tire – a last minute addition – but the cushions are Homesense. The long cushions on the benches are a custom job because I haven’t seen many 8ft cushions these days. They attach to the bench’s braces using snap ties. They’re made with outdoor fabric and water/mold-proof foam, so you know these bad boys will last for a while longer.
Circling back to the lounge area just goes to show how complete and compact our backyard is. The spaces are close without overwhelming each other, and they will allow for a natural flow of people in an evening or during an event. Well done us!
And now that this is done, I can’t wait to go build myself a sun-lounger and take a nap in the backyard. Let me know what you like about the space below!
Sources: all furniture & accessories unless otherwise specified – HomeSense
Pergola: Hampton Bay 10′ x 10′ available at The Home Depot // here //
Captain’s Chairs at harvest table: Canadian Tire // here //
Expandable Privacy Screen: Wayfair Canada // here //
It looks so good Ariel!! I love the pergola and seating area (and the bows on the silverware!). You’ve got so many great details going on. SUper cute space!
Thanks Kathy! I tried to make this space something bold that would grow with the season, where the foliage would compliment and cover-up all the brown and really just make the pieces pop. I think I managed OK 😉
Looks fantastic! Love the navy with the pops of colour. I too, bought a bunch of summer accessories at a home sense this year (I shopped them all as I could find different stuff at each). The prices were less then half compared to other places woohoo! I hope to enjoy it a bit before the move…..
oooh I can only imagine the variety between the 3 stores! The one here had a very good selection, so I’m not complaining 😉
Its beautiful. Youll love that all summer!
it looks so awesome and fun, ariel! i love the dining area those fab modern chairs. looks like the perfect space to relax and hang out with friends!
I mean, there’s no way of knowing unless you come out here, but yea, I’d say it’s all pretty darn comfy 😉
Amazing! I love all the Color combos! You have a wonderful talent!
I was a little dubious when you decided to paint the table top white, but it actually ties in really nicely. Everything looks great!
it sure does! I though you might have been 😉 I think it all looks good though
It looks lovely! You were right about the light being just right for your final pictures. Now all you need is for the rain to end and the sun to come so you can really enjoy your space!
it was! I just wish it was more consistent. I tried not to shoot in grey light (even though it’s the most even), but gosh darn dining for sunset is tricky!
I love how unique yet cohesive each space is, and the evolution of the dining area is stunning! Fantastic finds too, I’ll definitely have to keep my eye out for similar plate sets.
Thanks Jen <3 I had hoped for that, and I think that by planning it all out from the beginning that I did it!
So much eye candy in this reveal! Congrats on an amazing makeover, Ariel! I love all the color and the decor you’ve added. Yay for enjoying the outdoors!! Something tells me your neighbors will be jealous of your yard. LOL!
It’s funny, out yards are similar but oh-so-different!
Thank you, and to you as well!
Everything turned out beautifully! Love all the pops of colour, the DIY cedar privacy screen and that green lattice. Great job! 😍
Thank you so much Christina <3 I tried to focus on more permanent pieces and let the accessories tell the story
DANg – it looks SO good! I NEED to go get some pillows and accessories now so I can transform my backyard. Totally copying everything 🙂
Get on it girl! Get your booty to the nearest HomeSense / HomeGoods and treat yo self!
Ha I just wanted to add that I went to Homesense for a super quick trip for the ORC and I literally had to run through the store so that I wouldn’t stop and look at everything! I’ll definitely go when I have a big amount of time to browse 🙂
I hear ya. Sometimes I have to have blinders on or get lost in the candle isle 😉
This turned out beautifully 🙂 I really love all the little details, the bows on the silverware and the lights in the seating area. It looks perfect for this Spring season!!
Thank you so much Lindsay <3 I tried to put as much attention to detail as I could, and I think it's paid off!
I love it all but I REALLY love the green lattice and all of the blue and white!!!
I also shared my reveal today, check it out here: http://www.charlestoncrafted.com/2017/05/10/orc-reveal-fully-diy-remodeled-walk-master-closet/
Thanks Morgan! The blue is fun because I have almost 0% blue indoors!
It looks great, Ariel! I love how cozy you made your outdoor spaces look! It’s very “you” and now the outside matches the inside! There are so many sweet details! I hope that you get a weekend full of sunshine to sit and relax out there!
Thank you so much Amy <3 I hope so too! We're supposed to have great weather Saturday, which is good because we're hosting a party!
Looks awesome Ariel!! I LOVE all the blue & white, and those chairs are fabulous!! You’re definitely all set to enjoy the summer in your beautiful space! xo
Thanks Tash <3 I think I finally struck a cord colour wise with a wider audience! lol blue for days
What a fresh and beautiful patio! Love the colors and how you arranged the space. Wishing you many happy days and nights of enjoyment! Susie from The Chelsea Project
Thank you Susie <3 To you as well!
Those inky blue plates are awesome and I’m loving the custom cushions. I need to attempt to make a cushion cover for my bench out front.
This looks like such a wonderful space for summer! Beautiful work!
Thanks Joann! I spotted those plates at HomeSense and HAD to have them. They are so fun and fresh and the blues are beautifully vibrant.
Next time you’re out my way you’re coming for a BBQ!
i love all all the details and the plants all look beautiful!
Thank you Jillian! This is the first year I’m really going all out with the plants and am loving the results so far.
It looks so pretty and summery. Makes me want to come over for a bbq. 😉 Love all your pretty accessories and styling. Great job!
Get in a car and hit the road! Come see me and we’ll do a BBQ for sure!
The colors are amazing!
Thanks Jessica <3
This looks so great Ariel! What a great outdoor space you have. The bold colors are so pretty, as well as those dishes and the lights above the table make it a dreamy space 🙂 So pretty!
Thanks friend 🙂 I am so excited to be able to enjoy it this summer. It will make living outside that much more enticing.
That bar cart is perfect. Drink and party ready! Hopefully they’ll be lots of good times out here.
I’m so glad you agree! I’ve been dying for one outside for ages, glad HomeSense had just what I needed.
What lovely patio you have created, the festive colors and lights make for a great place to entertain and relax. Maria
It sure does! We got to test it out over the weekend and it is perfection!
Great makeover! I’m so glad that you are growing a green thumb. We need your style outdoors!
Me too! It was high time I get some greenery in this space. And thank you, that’s a very nice compliment 🙂
Wow- what an amazing transformation! I love the mix of colors, and the entire space feels so inviting! Hope you enjoy it all summer long!
Beautiful job Ariel! so many great little areas to sit back and enjoy the outdoors. I especially love the green lattice wall, and now I’m craving a sanpelligrino clementino! 🙂
Thank you so much Kim! I’m pretty darn pleased with myself and this space. If you need me, I’ll be out back enjoying the sun (whenever it gets here).
Fantastic job Ariel! I love the vibrant colors and that greenery wall! Yesss! Well done.
Thank you so much Ola!
You totally know how to mix and match! Love your color combos!
Thanks Ashley! High praise coming from you.
looks like you are ready for a party! Hope I’m invited! The colors ae fabulous, but you know I’m all about color. You accomplished so much in six weeks, great job!
Maggie, you’re always invited! Now get on a plane and come see me so that we can enjoy a drink outside!
What a great space to have to entertain in and hang out! love your mix of patterns and colors!
Thank you so much Bre!
so cheery!!! you have so many wonderful spaces to hang outside now – looks just lovely. nice work!!
Thanks Gemma! Now if only the weather would cooperate with me!
Lovely setting to have al fresco dinner!
it sure is! Thanks friend 🙂
Oh men! You have a wonderful outdoor space now! I love it. The chairs are my favorite. Nicely done!
Thanks friend <3 I'm trying to find a way to bring those chairs indoors for the winter already ahaha
What a great space! I love the table and chairs AND your green trellis wall!!! Fabulous!
sounds like a home run in your books! 😉
Gorgeous!! I love the trellis – we have a concrete/wood fence between us and the new neighbor and this would be amazing on it! Love all the color and the textures. As always, I’m impressed with every little detail. Now, come help me make my kitchen pretty.
Aww shucks. You’re making me blush! Now, I can’t wait to see your complete kitchen, so hurry up and post some reveal pics!
What a pretty outdoor space!! I love all the blue, so fresh!
Julie @ Love My Simple Home
And now I’m coming over!!! It’s like a ray of sunshine, you’d never want to leave!! Nicely done chérie!
Get your booty over here girl!
I love your lattice wall – what a great way to break up the siding! if I were you i’d be looking forward to entertaining, too! What a great space and and a fantastic job.
It sure is. I’m thinking of ordering more! God knows I hate the brown siding.
But thank you 🙂 Such kind words!
I’m dying a little bit over that pink cutlery set with the gingham ribbon. And the black and white cushions. And the blue & white combo among all the other gorgeous colours. Seriously – well done, once again!!!!
me too, me too! And now I have the perfect yellow napkins to go with them!
So basically, the colour palette in this space is a home run.
Looks great! The black and white bench/chair cushions are my favorite part!
thanks 🙂 I had those made because I cannot for the life of me sew a box pleat on an 8ft cushion! ahaha
I would live out here all summer! It all looks so fun, inviting and comfy. Great job Ariel!
Well, next time you’re in the maritimes come on by!
It’s absolutely stunning!!! LOVE the pops of colour and those side chairs are ahhhhmazing! What a beautiful space to enjoy the summer ahead!
Aren’t those superb?! HomeSense does it again!
What a gorgeous space all around! I felt like with every turn of the corner, there was something else that I loved. I just cant get over those chairs!!
That is the nicest thing you could say! I wanted the space to feel like it had surprises and details everywhere, sounds like I hit the nail on the head!
Love your outdoor space! My faves, the lattice wall, i LOVE that so much and the pink cutlery tied with gingham ribbon is just the cutest ever!
The lattice wall is EVERYONE’s favourite ahahaha it’s a pretty fantastic option all things considered. I can’t believe more people haven’t heard of it!
That pink cutlery was purchased from a thrifting person and I thought the red ribbon would tie it in perfectly. I’m pretty chuffed about the whole space to be honest 😉
Oh my gosh this is so beautiful! It makes me so excited for summer seeing this. Such a good job!!!
I’n glad it does! We’ve had such poor weather with all the rain and flooding, and knowing I have an oasis waiting for me is making me even more excited for sunny days!
You did such a great job! I love how everything looks so comfortable as well as being stylish!
Thank you Casey <3
Beautiful job! Everything has a great vibe together and separately. I love that you split up the spaces by function. I also love that you got all of your furniture in one place. I need to find out if there is a homesense is in our area.
If you’re in Canada there is most likely a HomeSense! If you’re in the U.S. you’ll be looking for a HomeGoods 🙂
I thought it was pretty smart of me too 😉 I think it helped keep the yard on track instead of just having a giant to-do list.
Thanks for the kind words friend !
This space is amazing! you are going to have a wonderful summer!
I’m inclined to agree 😉 thanks again Amber!
The enclosure around your ac unit is brilliant! aRIEL, THIS SPACE IS BEAUTIFUL, SO INVITING AND FUN! I’M SURE YOU’LL GET A LOT OF USE OUT OF IT THIS SUMMER!
Isn’t it?! It’s just a simple L shaped fence, but it does the trick and hides the ugly beast without restricting access. I made something similar last year for our trash bins and decided to up my game this year. But thank you, I’ve already enjoyed quite a few lovely moments out back, I’m so glad I get to call this space mine.
i love love love this! I think my favourite is the white topped dining table though. Such an inspiration! I need to start reimagining my outdoor space.
Thanks Yvonne! It took some convincing to get DH on board with a white top table, but now that it’s white we both wonder why it was ever any other colour!
This is beautiful! I love all of the blue and the rustic touches. it is such a relaxing place to hang out now!
Thanks so much Emily <3 I figured I better start adding some blue and yellow to complete my home's colour rainbow!
Ariel, you did such an amazing job! I can’t believe how much you accomplished in six short weeks! i love those black and white patio table cushions!
Thank you so much friend! Those six weeks went by in a flash and now I get to enjoy my outdoors 🙂