LIVING SPACES
By Priscilla Willis | Photos by Chadwick Turner
A-Frame Beaver Lake Retreat
Enjoy adventure or relaxation at this inviting Airbnb
What happens when a real estate professional and an architectural/real estate photographer decide they’re ready to invest in a vacation home they can list on Airbnb as well as use themselves? Stephen Smith and Chadwick Turner had been discussing it for a while and agreed that, most importantly, it needed to be a unique property. Additionally, it had to be close enough for them to manage on their own and easily accessible for quick getaways with their dogs.
Being in the real estate business, Stephen searches listings daily and came across an A-frame in Beaver Shores the day it was listed. Both he and Chadwick favor contemporary design, and once he showed it to Chadwick, they quickly scheduled a time to see the property in person. It was a snowy day in February, the lake cloaked in quiet stillness; the instant they pulled into the driveway, they were smitten.
From rustic cabins to modern masterpieces, the A-frame style can be found around the world. In the United States, A-frames became popular in the years following World War II. People had more disposable income for vacation homes, and A-frames, being simple and inexpensive, were a popular choice.
The large windows allow for abundant natural light and fabulous views, and many were built near lakes and streams and in the mountains, where snow slides easily off the roof. Realtor.com said the biggest downside to buying an A-frame home may be the difficulty of finding one. “The majority of A-frames were built as vacation homes in the late 1900s, and homeowners tend to hold onto them more than other types of homes,” according to the website. Conclusion: If you find one, you should buy it! And that’s exactly what Stephen and Chadwick did.
The A-frame home needed a top-to-bottom makeover to become the modern retreat Stephen and Chadwick envisioned. They leaned into the A-frame style and saw an opportunity to extend their love of mid-century modern design through furnishings and décor. They also wanted to keep it cozy to maintain the woodsy cottage feel.
The transformation began with the refurbishment of the exterior. Everything is new, from the roof to the landscaping, including the addition of a hot tub, sauna, cold plunge pool and firepit area surrounded by river rock. The A-frame expresses itself in a moody, dark blue-black color called Inkwell, framed by cedar eaves and accented with a splash of bright Verdant Green on the entry doors.
For the interior, the couple selected colors and textures found in nature. A warm, medium green on the walls and cabinets evokes a sense of harmony and renewal, highlighting the natural beauty of the wood beams and emphasizing the vaulted ceiling. Molten waves of orange, green and gold within the black epoxy countertop further complement the color scheme and are the handiwork of epoxy artisans at Sticky Fingers in Bella Vista.
​
In contrast, local river rock and natural stone are prominently featured in the floor-to-ceiling fireplace. Orange was incorporated for a pop of color in a duo of living room chairs, the primary bedroom’s velvet headboard and bench, cozy throws and accent pillows. Comfortable leather seating and warm wood furnishings complete the inviting ambiance. The bathroom imparts a modern touch with luxe gold fixtures against a backdrop of black epoxy walls and a reeded-front vanity and dressing table.
The renovation was completed in record time (five months!), and the “Modern A-Frame Cottage near Beaver Lake” listing went live Aug. 1, was immediately rented and has rarely had an open night since. The cottage accommodates up to five guests and features a king-size bed on the main level, a full-size bed in the loft and luxury twin air mattress. Guests can enjoy a spa-style bath, a full kitchen, fast Wi-Fi, smart TVs, central heating and air conditioning, a washer and dryer, and a fenced yard — yes, the A-frame is dog-friendly (up to two dogs, with advance notice and a pet fee required).
Located near trails and just minutes from Prairie Creek Marina, Hobbs State Park, Lake Atalanta and downtown Rogers, the A-frame is ideal for couples, families and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, the A-frame offers privacy, convenience and a perfect escape.
During the holidays, find the retreat embracing the season with spectacular decorations. This month, relish in the warmth of several Christmas trees, winter greenery, festive pillows and twinkling lights. Take the opportunity to enjoy s’mores by the firepit or sip hot cocoa cozied up on the couch.
​
Guest reviews emphasize the hosts’ hospitality with comments such as “above and beyond,” “they even left me a birthday cake,” “thoughtful in leaving dog bowls and treats” and more. The cottage is described as “perfect in every way,” “the cleanest Airbnb I’ve ever stayed at,” “incredibly comfortable and well equipped” and “absolutely pristine.”
The fully stocked kitchen includes everything needed to cook and entertain, from an air fryer to a slow cooker. Coffee lovers are in heaven when they experience the coffee station complete with a Keurig, a drip coffee maker and a French press. Guests can gather for meals around the dining table, at the bar or enjoy their coffee outdoors.
After a day of exploring, guests can unwind in the private hot tub or sauna, grill out in the backyard or gather around the firepit under the stars. In addition to this exceptional array of amenities, there’s also a storage shed available upon request for bikes or lake gear, plus parking for three cars and space for your boat! So, what are you waiting for? Book your stay at www.modernaframecottage.com.
Home Pros Used:
Flooring: Ridout Lumber Company
Flooring Installation: Corleto’s Painting
Interior Decorator: Chadwick Turner
Landscaping/Fence Installation/Fire Pit: Verde’s Lawn Care
Painting: Choice Painting
Plumbing/Lighting/Cedar Eaves: Wheeler Services
Shower Doors: Natural State Glass & Mirror, LLC
Additional Vendors: Epoxy countertops and shower by Sticky Fingers; exterior color selection by FoxxYork