One Room Challenge | Week 1: The "Before" Powder Bath

Katherine Walker
Oct 1
3 min read

It’s time for another round of the One Room Challenge except this time, I’m rolling up my sleeves in a BIG WAY!

If you’ve followed along with my past ORC projects (like Fall 2023), you know that normally my role is creative direction, design execution, and coordination with our amazing trade partners. This time, though, I’m taking on my powder bathroom (almost) entirely by myself (cue maniacal laugh.)

Why?

Because I want to truly show, and feel, the amount of work that goes into these transformations. Clients often see a price tag for skilled labor such as wall prep/skim coating, painting, millwork, electrical, and plumbing and wonder why it costs so much. The truth is: those “simple” tasks are anything but. Skilled trades make things look effortless, but behind the scenes it’s hours of labor, specialized tools, and the kind of precision you only earn through experience. By doing this project myself, I’ll gain a deeper appreciation for every detail that goes into a finished space.

Hopefully by the end of these 8 weeks I will help others understand the value of professional craftsmanship.

The Starting Point Of The One Room Challenge: Our Powder Bath "Before"

Let’s talk about the current state of this little room. Like most powder baths, it’s small, all of our guests use this bathroom, and it's pretty darn plain. When we bought this house, I had big visions for the potential this room had. Powder Baths are a chance to have fun and be bold! It's a room to take design risks in where you may otherwise be too shy to.

Right now, though, it's more boringggg than beautiful.

The finishes are white and lack personality
The ceiling, in particular, is begging for some attention (spoiler: it will become the star of the show).
The mirror looks like everyone else's in the neighborhood
The can lighting feels flat and uninspired
The vanity and countertops have potential
The faucet is fine, but uninspiring

This space has so much potential, and I’m excited to give it the attention it deserves.

The Plan : Stick Around

Over the next eight weeks, I’ll walk you through every stage. From planning and inspiration to design concept, from gathering supplies and prep work, to layering in details like trim, lighting, and fixtures. You won’t want to miss it!

Here’s a sneak peek of what’s ahead:

Week 2: Design concept + tools and supplies I’ll be relying on

Week 3: Prep and skim coating (because the ceiling deserves love, too)

Week 4: Painting (the part everyone underestimates)

Week 5: Gold leaf ceiling (yes, I’m going for it!)

Week 6–7: Trim, crown, and all the finishing details (I'm no carpenter, send help!)

Week 8: The final reveal

Why: This Powder Bath Makeover Matters

Yes, this is a powder bath makeover. But it’s also a case study in time, labor, and value.

Every week, I’ll share not just the “pretty” progress photos, but also the sweat, tools, and skills required along the way.

My hope is that by the time we get to the reveal, you’ll see what I’ve always known. Our trades are worth every penny, and then some!

Over the next seven weeks, I’ll be showing the good, the messy, and everything in between. I invite you to follow along here, at One Room Challenge, and over on Apartment Therapy, where all the featured projects are showcased. This is going to be a transformation worth watching, and I can’t wait to share it with you.

If your home could use a refresh or you’re dreaming of creating the perfect powder bath, I’d love to help bring your vision to life. Let’s hop on a 30-minute Discovery Call—it could be the start of something life-changing for your space!