56 DIGS.NET
| 5.28.2021
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P R O F I L E | W I L LO W H O U S E
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In Terlingua, Texas, Willow House was created to stand the test of time.
A CONTEMPLATIVE
RETREAT
T
here are no words that can tell the hidden spirit of the wilderness,
that can reveal its mystery, its melancholy, its charm." This sentence,
by Theodore Roosevelt, immediately resonated with California
native Lauren Werner who, as soon as she moved to Texas a few years ago,
fell in love with the beauty of Big Bend National Park and realized her dream
of having a piece of land only 6 miles from it. Werner is now the owner of
Willow House, a boutique hotel of 12 single-story stand-alone casitas and a
main house with a gourmet kitchen, all built on 250 acres.
Designed to highlight Chisos Mountain range views while protected from
the strong winds and sun, the property combines community and privacy.
Werner—who is an admirer of Georgia O'Keeffe's work—chose colors,
textures and materials based on what naturally exists on her land, such as the
rocks for walls and pathways, and ocotillo branches for the shade structures.
"We have used high-quality materials that are durable in a climate that can
be dramatic," says Werner. The art showcased throughout the buildings are
works by regional artists, deceased family members, and artists who have
attended the Willow House residency program. willowhouse.co
PHOTOGRAPHS:
CASEY
DUNN
AND
CLAIRE
SCHAPER
