One Room Challenge: About The Event & Why I Decided to Join in

I'm beyond excited to kick off this 8-week design journey as a first-time guest participant. If you're not familiar with the One Room Challenge (ORC), it's a widely celebrated biannual event that encourages bloggers, designers, and DIYers to completely transform one room in just eight weeks. Hosted by the official ORC platform and supported by Better Homes & Gardens, the challenge is all about creativity, community, and pushing the boundaries of design.

Each week, participants share their progress online, giving readers a behind-the-scenes look at the inspiration, planning, successes (and sometimes setbacks!) involved in a full room makeover. It's a unique opportunity to connect with a supportive community of like-minded creatives, discover new ideas, and watch beautiful transformations unfold in real time.

This season, I’ll be tackling my main bedroom and taking you along for the ride—from mood boards and DIY projects to shopping hauls and the big reveal. I’ve followed the ORC for years and always dreamed of participating, so I’m thrilled to finally be part of this talented group of designers, makers, and fellow home enthusiasts.

Stay tuned for weekly updates, design tips, and all the behind-the-scenes fun!

By the way—hey there! I’m Santeka Grigley, the content creator behind SantekaGrigley.com, a bold and vibrant space where I share my journey of growing a business, exploring the world, and living life unapologetically. As a millennial Southern baddie with a passion for travel, good food, DIY adventures, and all things home decor, I’m all about curating a life that’s full of style, soul, and a little bit of spice.

My mission? To inspire others to live their lives out loud—boldly, authentically, and colorfully—just like I do.

One Room Challenge - Why I Decided to Join?

Now, let’s dive into the real reason you’re here—the One Room Challenge!

I decided to join the One Room Challenge because I needed a little push to finally show some love to a space that’s long overdue for a makeover—our primary bedroom. Since purchasing our true fixer-upper, we’ve been focused on tackling more urgent projects throughout the house, and the bedroom has slowly but surely slid to the bottom of the to-do list. But that changes now.

The One Room Challenge felt like the perfect opportunity to not only carve out intentional time to focus on this space, but to also connect with a community of creatives who are just as passionate about design and transformation as I am. I love a good challenge—and this one lights a fire under me to finish what I’ve started and share every step along the way.

My vision? To turn this bedroom into a calm, transitional-style retreat with layers of texture, rich moody tones, and subtle nods to boho and modern farmhouse aesthetics. Think cozy, elevated, and effortlessly stylish—just the way a personal sanctuary should feel.

Next week, I’ll be revealing the bold new wall color along with the mood board that’s inspiring the entire design. I’m beyond excited to bring this room to life and even more excited to have you on this journey with me.