This is a story about transformation. Not just of a space, but of the way people experience it—connect, unwind, and discover something new about themselves. It’s also the story OF PIONEERing what a boutique BnB could be. A NARRATIVE that isn’t about chasing trends or being satisfied with a couple picture-perfect Instagram moments, but crafting an environment that could invigorate, inspire and foster genuine connection.
GETTING TO THE BARE BONES
CHARLES VESLEY: When we first walked in, I’ll be honest, it was tough to see the potential. The house was so muted. Gray walls, monochromatic everything. It lacked energy, but the bones were stunning. Vaulted ceilings that felt like a cathedral, this built-in armoire that whispered stories of another time, and a sprawling backyard begging to be activated.
TIM STANTON: It’s funny, right? The house had all the makings of something extraordinary but was stuck in this liminal space. We had to strip it back to zero — clearing the slate, removing the noise, and imagining every corner not as just a room, but as a moment. A place where people could gather, create memories, and kick it.
CV: And the living room — that massive space — was a dream to rethink. We could’ve easily turned it into another screen-focused area, but we kept asking ourselves: how do we make this a hub for conversation and meaningful moments?
A VISION COMING INTO FOCUS
CV: I’ll admit, I leaned into This kind of country whimsical MOTIF — but with a lot of intention. The client wanted timelessness, but with an pop of fun. I was Inspired by European summers and rugged materials with a story. I wanted to introduce a little chic, but a lot of NOSTALGIA.
TS: The materials you selected really made it come to life. pullING in raw elements like leather, wood, and jute DEFINITELY pay homage to that rugged side of Texas. but I loved that you pushed for the touches that whispered QUINTESSENTIAL Austin like the vintage neon, gives it a Little touch of irreverence. And like you said, It wasn’t about being loud, it was about being thoughtful.
CV: And the living room was all about creating A cozy elegance with layers of texture and low-slung furniture. It invites you to RECONSIDER WHAT YOU’RE DOING AND to sink in and stay a while.
FILLING THE SPACES INBETWEEN
CV: honestly, SOMETIMES I CAN GET WRAPPED UP IN JUST THE aesthetics, but FOR the backyard I REALLY WANTED TO creatE A space that spOKE TO PEOPLE. The pool’s potential was obvious, but I didn’t want it to be just a pool. It had to be an anchor for Inspiration, Which naturally lead me toward curating a mix of loungers, amenities and pinwheel umbrellas that feel like a scene from a movie you never want to leave.
TS: People say that Execution is everything, but IF I’m honest It Was the visioning YOU did that set this project on the right track. YOU thought through every detail — not just the big moments like the pool, but the in-between spaces. The ping-pong table wasn’t just an afterthought, it was part of the bigger narrative of creating a point of connection. AND THE Cold plunges, POOL TABLE and fire Pits aren’t just features, they’re part of an experience.
A NEW OUTPOST
IN AUSTIN
CV: It was ALL about striking a balance. The croquet set, the outdoor lighting, even the fengshui of the furniture — it all played a role in creating this seamless flow. We blurRED the lines between luxury and livability, inspiration and ease. This isn’t just a place to crash, it’s a place to live — even if it’s just for a weekend.
TS: Couldn’t agree more. What we’ve ended up with is more than a house. It’s a feeling. It’s life-giving and practical, inspiring and calming. You could spend a lifetime here and discover new details everyday. That’s the magic we were chasing, and honestly, it’s the magic we’ve created.
