In the village of Terlingua, just a few kilometers from Texas’s Big Bend National Park, lies a retreat-style hotel with 12 rooms spread across an area of 250 acres. This is Willow House, a place that, at first glance, embodies the authentic spirit of the American Far West.

The man behind this idea is the owner, Lauren Werner, who—despite not being a designer or architect—managed to create an impressive recreational space.

The materials used and the hotel’s exterior design reflect a simple and austere way of life. At the same time, the immediate contact with the desert and untamed nature brings to mind the daily rhythm and lifestyle of monastics. This was intentional on the owner’s part, as his goal was to create a beautiful and serene place where visitors could clear their minds.

The outdoor areas are entirely lined with concrete, while the interior spaces are distinguished by their minimalist design. The furniture consists mainly of vintage antiques personally selected by the owner, acquired from the Rose Bowl Flea Market in Los Angeles and Green Front in Virginia, during two trips made specifically for this purpose. Finally, the breathtaking views of the Chisos Mountains and the Santa Elena Canyon leave a lasting impression.

Photos Courtesy of https://www.willowhouse.co/