Written by Jeanine Matlow / Photography by Erin Williamson
Short-term rental designs are often infused with fun in a way that everyday homes shy away from; they are intended to provide respite and a memorable experience in just a handful of days. Elevating the vacation experience was the goal for Erin Williamson, principal designer and owner of her eponymous design firm, who brought this A-frame into the twenty-first century. The Lake Austin Lodge/Okena is set on a canal with multiple units yet designed to be rented as a whole. "It's a very charming and personal property with room for large families to spread out in comfort," says Williamson. The lead unit (1705) is located in the classic midcentury A-frame with sharply peaked ceilings, original rock walls, and tongue-and-groove flooring in the loft areas—all contributing to the inviting, retro feel.
"Because the rooms are small, we wanted to create a warm and cozy feel," she says. "Wrapping the entire vaulted bedroom in dark paint and coordinated wallpaper transformed the space into a treetop nest, which hopefully inspires restorative self-care. I think there's something about a small room that makes us feel secure and helps to regulate our overstressed nervous systems—something that's very important when on vacation!" Additional bedrooms designed to house multiple people offer flexibility for guests. For short-term stays, Williamson tries to design intuitively so visitors can easily find necessities. She also pays attention to details like lighting, with flattering lamps or sconces in each room.
"There's nothing worse than trying to relax under interrogation-style lights!" she says. Other rental essentials include comfortable beds, extra pillows and blankets, decent knives, board games, candles, and toiletries.
Williamson's client appreciates vintage and unique pieces, so they worked collaboratively with this in mind to curate a welcoming and memorable space. "Good design sparks conversation, and I'd like to think we accomplished that here—from the A-frame inspired backsplash to the bold wallpaper selections," she says. Vintage art from her own collection, original Beni Mrirt and Khotan rugs found on Etsy, a custom chandelier made by a ceramic artist, a midcentury travertine coffee table, and a rustic painted dresser from her client are among the other special mentions. "I can honestly say every single piece was chosen with care and intent," the designer adds.
The multiunit property can accommodate extended families eager to unwind in a peaceful setting with easy access to local amenities. "It feels a bit like a classic camp, and the nostalgic point of view offers a unique departure from typical corporate vacation rentals." Each ground-floor unit includes a deck, while the property features a large firepit on the canal with comfy Adirondack chairs. The canal with direct access to Lake Austin in a neighborhood close to downtown also stands out. "There simply aren't many (if any!) homes available for short-term rentals in the area," says Williamson. "It's truly one of a kind."
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Here, we give a quick glimpse at the other on-site spaces at Lake Austin Lodge/Okena, all designed by Erin Williamson.
1703: The largest unit has a spacious vaulted primary bedroom, a relatively expansive kitchen, and a clever bunk bed system. "The vibe is organic-modern with a splash of bold color," says Williamson.
1701A: The upstairs unit features a color-drenched vaulted bedroom and a spacious bathroom. "We employed colors and motifs that recall a Wes Anderson-esque tree house, albeit with luxe amenities," adds the designer.
1701B: Lovingly dubbed The Man Cave, this space combines moody tile and cabinets with masculine furnishings and wallpaper that evokes lunar phases. "The bedrooms are imagined as camp-style crash pads, perfect after a long day of boating followed by poker in the evenings," says Williamson.
Book a relaxing retreat at the Lake Austin Lodge/Okena: www.okena.co