Patti and Phil have been clients of mine for years. Maintaining long-standing relationships with my clients is what keeps my heart beating in this business! Phil, a talented architect with a niche in kitchen design, and his wife Patti approached me earlier this year with a new project—something completely different from our previous work together. They were building a yurt in the heart of Texas Hill Country, and they wanted my help with color design!
I first worked with them on a color consultation for their home, followed by the barn on their equestrian property. Since then, we’ve referred clients back and forth, recognizing each other’s dedication to excellence and our shared passion for great service. But never in my wildest dreams did I think I would spec colors for a yurt!
I’ll be honest: when they first mentioned a yurt, my reaction was, “A what?” Like many, I had no idea what a yurt was at the time. For those unfamiliar, a yurt is a round, portable dwelling traditionally used by nomadic people in Central Asia. In recent years, it’s become popular for eco-friendly and off-grid living. Once I understood their vision, I was hooked!
This yurt wasn’t going to be your average rustic Texas retreat, though. Patti and Phil wanted to create a luxurious, vibrant, yet peaceful getaway for guests, one that felt like a home away from home, with all the comforts and indulgences of a boutique hotel. The challenge for me was to design a color scheme that captured this vision—without ever visiting the site!
Patti was clear that she didn’t want a bland, neutral palette. She already had some inspirational pieces in mind, so we focused on creating a space that felt joyful and lively, but also restful. It was important to strike that balance between vibrant colors and the natural serenity of the surrounding landscape, and to ensure the design wasn’t too “matchy-matchy.” This is what I love most about being an Architectural Color Consultant—each project is so unique, and my work extends far beyond just picking paint colors. It’s about bringing out the personality of the space and its owners, whether it’s a residential property or a vacation retreat.
Fast forward a few months, and their vision came to life as Heartstone at 515. Nestled on 28 acres in Dripping Springs, this luxury yurt offers an unforgettable experience. The interior features natural pine flooring, cozy yet chic furnishings, and vibrant textiles that make the space feel warm and inviting. The living area is the perfect place to relax, with plush seating, soft throws, and large windows that frame breathtaking views of the Hill Country landscape. They even included a retro-style record player, a vintage-looking coffee machine, and whimsical art pieces, adding a fun, nostalgic touch to the space.
The spacious, private deck feels comfortable and inviting, offering an unforgettable view of the Texas sunsets. You can enjoy your coffee early in the morning as the world around you awakes. The deck also features a private cowboy pool, allowing guests to cool down with a plunge after a long day of exploring all that Dripping Springs and Austin have to offer.
Patti’s attention to detail extends beyond the décor—guests are treated to quality robes, luxury toiletries, and fresh organic eggs from their own chickens. They even change up the décor seasonally, adding another layer of thoughtfulness to the experience.
What I love most about this project is how it reflects the versatility of what I do. Designing color schemes isn’t limited to just homes—it’s about creating atmospheres that evoke emotion and leave lasting memories. Each project is a chance to bring something unique to life.
It’s no surprise that Heartstone at 515 has already achieved super host status on vacation rental platforms within just a few months of being listed. Patti and Phil have created something truly special, and I’m thrilled to have been a part of it.
If you’re ever looking for a serene, luxurious retreat that combines the beauty of nature with thoughtful design, this is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. And as always, I’m here to help with any color consultation needs—whether it’s for your home, your business, or your dream property!
