Two years ago, Cat Cannon and her partner, Robbie Stiefel, rolled up their sleeves to tackle their first design project—updating a neglected cabin in Yucca Valley, California. Originally built in 1958, the 480-square-foot unit presented a blank canvas with its wide, open layout. “We were inspired by the challenge of designing a one-bedroom, one-bath house that would feel spacious within the existing footprint,” says Cat.

After stripping the building down to the studs, the young couple vaulted the ceiling and integrated extensive glazing. “We knew that natural light would be essential to making the interior feel larger, so we added a lot of glass, including two rake windows to follow and accentuate the roof’s pitch.”

In order to maximize both floor space and storage, the couple created “pop-out” window openings, which they filled with custom built-in furniture. They also sculpted the bedroom with a sleek curved wall. “Lying in bed, you can see the level curve from the top of the wall contrast against the glowing slope of the vaulted ceiling. This light and visual interest play a huge role in the bedroom's airy aesthetic,” explains Cat.

Steps from the bedroom lies a full bath with tadelakt plaster walls. Next door, the open kitchen features a large central island and built-in shelving. “We’re thrilled with how the kitchen turned out,” notes Cat. “We both love to cook, and it was important to us that someone be able to live here without having to adapt their mealtime activity to a small kitchenette.”

The couple also upgraded the home’s exterior by wrapping it with smooth Santa Barbara stucco. “We popped up a section of the roof to house the ducted air conditioning system so that a clunky wall unit could be avoided.”

Finally, Cat and Robbie obtained the proper permits to change the status of the unit from a recreational cabin to a single-family residence. “We envision the building serving as a totally functional, full-time residence or weekend retreat,” says Cat. “The home is also permitted to be able to serve as a short-term rental property.” Scroll ahead to see more of the dwelling, now listed for $445,000.

56568 Handley Road in Yucca Valley, California, is currently listed for $445,000 by Bryan Wynwood of Joshua Tree Modern. Learn more about the home renovation process via @themightyhermit.

Know of a home for sale or rent that should be featured on Dwell.com? Find out how to submit to Dwell.

Appears In

A Darling Desert Escape Seeks $445K Near Joshua Tree