Mountain Sanctuary
LAKE TAHOE, CALIFORNIA
Builder: Jim Galletto Architect: Jim Borelli Millwork: Pappas Construction Square Footage: 735 square feet
Photographer: Stephanie Russo Stylist: Rachel Forslund
For this bustling family vacation home, our clients wanted to rework their space to accommodate their ever-growing family and maximize their precious time at the lake. We reimagined a funky space above the garage to become a light and airy primary suite, and transformed the previous primary bedroom into a cozy bunkroom with space for adult children and small grandkids alike.
What was once an oddly shaped office became a stunning upstairs primary suite with some of the best views in Lake Tahoe. With the bedroom oriented to face the lake, we nested a linen daybed under the window for morning coffees with a view, and a place for visiting grandkids to take in the sunrise. We selected a delicate, painterly and nature-inspired wallpaper on our headboard wall. A soft palette of cream, soft blues and grays, a nod to the lake ambience in an elevated way. The cozy fireplace and custom millwork add warmth and a place to capture small, found treasures. A true retreat.
In the ensuite bathroom, we went for a spa-like feel, carrying through beautiful, creamy greige terrazzo tile with custom cabinetry, to include a linen press and a seated vanity area strategically placed for a peek at the lake and the most spectacular natural light.
Downstairs, we transformed the previous primary bedroom into a rich and comfy bunkroom, complete with full-sized custom beds and layered bedding. With a vision of grandkids packing into the bunks to watch movies, but also adult kids and friends sprawling out for the weekend, we went for a sophisticated but inviting feel, working in brown, sage green and gray textiles to complement the home’s existing woodsy aesthetic, and designing the beds with sturdy ladders, drawers for storage, and built-in lights for late-night or early-morning reading.
“I have worked with Marianne on numerous construction and design projects over the years and I am so grateful for her keen eye and attention to detail. Each of the projects resulted in special spaces with cozy elements that make them their own.
After working on the following projects, I highly recommend Marianne and team:
* A large addition and remodel in Danville
* A two-phased remodel in Tahoe, including a large primary suite and bunk room, which were beautifully appointed
* Fully furnishing a home in Carmel by the Sea during Covid
* Working in conjunction with a builder to renovate a small condo in Danville.”
