WCW: Rosa Armstrong-The Project Chick

Rosa Armstrong is an accomplished interior designer whose expertise is in the field of “Do it Yourself” (DIY). Coined herself, “The Project Chick” she travels the country teaching people to take the old and tarnished and turn it into new and fabulous.  She is today's Women Crush Wednesday! 

I knew Rosa from 7th period earth science from high school and had the pleasure of doing PR work for her for her e-store The Bombshell Bodega.  I always admired her entrepreneurial spirit and sense of humor, it wasn't a surprise to me to see her drive get her a show on HGTV/DIY channel "Kids can Build”.

What makes Rosa's show unique to me is that she's a city gal, most of the DIY shows are shown in the suburbs, that's refreshing for a fellow city gal!  Rosa brings her Brooklyn flava collaborating in projects with her daughter Melania. 

In between projects, Rosa and I had a chance to catch up, check it out:

O.C.O: What inspired you to start The Project Chick? When did Melania get involved?

R.A: The inspiration behind the Project Chick really was just an evolution to who I’ve become in this arena. I found myself not knowing what to call myself like am I a carpenter, a upholsterer, crafter I tried so hard to peghole myself into a niche that I ultimately was like I can and do, do it all. I do projects I am a Project Chick! Melania was pretty much forced into this life I can always use a second set of hands when working and she became my unofficial apprentice. Thank goodness she enjoys building!

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BEFORE

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AFTER

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O.C.O: Where do you do most of your work on your DIY projects?
R.A: I do most of my DIY projects in my workshop. I have a space that I rent so I don’t have to worry about being messy

O.C.O: What was your first “big tool purchase”?
R.A: My first big tool purchase was a skill saw all magnesium circular saw I did so much research on it and was afraid to use it because I heard how much power was in it and afraid I’d get hurt. But I’m still here with all 10 fingers!

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O.C.O: Who are your style icons? 

R.A: Right now my fave style icon has to be hands down Tracy Ellis Ross omg she is giving me life. She’s all about street and chic fun and stylish feminine and masculine.

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 O.C.O: Is there a specific project that you'd consider a favorite? 

R.A: As far as my favorite project to this day I consider it my daughter’s bed. It was my first build and With all the experience I’ve gained since then it’s pretty unimpressive as far as skill set but it gave my the feeling of empowerment that I needed to start this journey of becoming who I am today and who I strive to be in the future a can do can learn conqueror

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Follow Rosa on Facebook and Instagram for the latest DIY projects and show announcements!

xo

Kos