Lake Arrowhead A-Frame Reimagined
When we purchased this Lake Arrowhead A-frame in 2021, it was already a working short term rental. And while the home functioned fine as a short-term rental, it lacked soul. The furnishings were sparse, the decor leaned dark and overly minimalist, and the overall feel was more sterile than inviting.
We definitely saw potential—and we saw an opportunity to transform the home into a warm, welcoming mountain escape.
We started by painting the exterior, which gave the unique and stunning double A-frame some much-needed presence among the towering pines. Inside, we added warmth and personality through texture, color, and thoughtful layering. A key part of this transformation was infusing the space with charm without clutter. Pops of color, cozy textiles, and playful touches (like hanging swings on the deck and a Miss Pac-Man video game downstairs) helped shift the vibe from stark to snug.
We also extended the deck off the primary bedroom, fenced in the full outdoor area for safety, and prioritized outdoor lounging and gathering with simple but impactful upgrades. Inside, we curated a full refresh: furniture, wallpaper, art, essentials, and those just-right luxuries that make guests feel cared for.
This project was especially fun because we knew we could also enjoy this space ourselves and that we could create a space for friends and family to enjoy for years to come as well. From stocking the kitchen and bath to styling every corner, this is a 100% home, made. space, designed with guests in mind. Our goal? To create a place where people could relax, feel inspired, and make memories.
Takeaway: You don’t need a full gut reno to create major transformation. Even small, strategic changes—a shift in tone, an eye for warmth, a commitment to comfort—can completely change how a home feels.
Living Room Before & After: We kept the original dark sectional but swapped out the heavy rug for a lighter one with pale pinks, yellows, and tans that immediately brightened the space. We echoed those tones through pillows and throws to create a cohesive, inviting palette. The bulky armchair was replaced with a more streamlined option, opening up the layout and giving the space better flow. We layered in warm lighting, textured poufs, playful accent pieces, and natural elements to soften the architecture and make the room feel like a true retreat.
Dining Area Before & After: This space originally felt cold and uninspired with its stark white table and matching modern chairs. We warmed it up with a round wooden table that encourages gathering, and opted for dark wood cross-back chairs to add contrast and character. A graphic black pendant light draws the eye up and highlights the incredible ceiling height, while a small shelf with curated art and accessories adds both charm and functionality. Subtle decor and layered texture make the space feel lived-in and loved.
Guest Room Before & After: We kept the bed and the side table, but the room was completely transformed through intentional layering. A whimsical wallpaper set the tone, while fresh bedding, a cheerful green lumbar pillow, and cozy textures added softness and depth. Vintage artwork and a touch of greenery brought character and warmth. It’s proof that even a few thoughtful updates can turn a basic room into a charming and welcoming retreat.
Kids Room Before & After: We kept the existing metal bunkbeds but took the space from stark to playful with a few fun updates. A soft geometric rug, cozy layered bedding, graphic throw pillows, and cute stuffed animals made the room feel more youthful and warm. A wood-accented cabinet and table lamp added organic charm and much-needed functionality, while a basket of books and activities made the space more welcoming for younger guests.
Exterior Before & After: One of the most dramatic transformations came from paint. The original light gray exterior felt washed out and faded into the background. We chose a bold paint in Benjamin Moore’s Black Forest Green to highlight the dramatic lines of the A-frame and make the architecture shine. We also added a fence around the deck for safety, extended the outdoor area off the primary bedroom, and included swings for a bit of whimsy and fun. String lights, cozy glow from the windows, and playful details made the home feel instantly more alive and inviting.
