From bankruptcy to dream treehouse cabin: how a couple turned adversity into a stunning BnB

The region’s most stunning view is a newly built treehouse cabin perched on the mountain.

Its modern design blends smoothly with the grand landscape. Yet, despite its ideal location, its creators, John and Sharon, encountered significant challenges to get there.

Sharon and John’s journey to building their dream treehouse cabin began in a challenging period marked by bankruptcy.

The financial strain was significant, but their resolve was stronger. Sharon reflects on this time, saying, “This property means freedom to me. When we went bankrupt, we were in a place of being reactionary, not watching what we’re doing first and then acting upon it. It was everything was in reaction, and we were reacting too slowly. This property has given us those options.”

Building the cabin on a steep and difficult site presented numerous obstacles. Sharon describes the struggle: “The cabin was a bit different because we literally shoehorned it onto the worst area of the block. There was a lot of scaffolding and scary stuff going on. It took 18 months to build, and John could only put up one sheet per weekend. Watching him struggle and keep going was amazing.”

Despite the challenges, the cabin’s design reflects Sharon’s unique vision and personal taste. She was inspired by the idea of a treehouse, which led to the cabin’s distinctive look.

“Because it was a treehouse, I tried to make the bedroom feel like you were under the tree in the trunk, and then upstairs in the canopies,” Sharon explains.

This inspiration is evident in the cabin’s design, which merges functionality with an aesthetic that blends into the natural surroundings.

Despite initial resistance from her husband, John, Sharon’s choice of the industrial look was a bold move.

“John said, ‘We’re not doing that.’ And as soon as we painted the trusses, he loved them. The ambient light at night turned out to be extraordinary,” Sharon recalls.

The exposed steel trusses and dark colors were intended to blend with the natural environment, allowing the cabin to remain unobtrusive and private.

The interior of the cabin is designed to maximize comfort and functionality. The living area features a striking window that frames breathtaking views, enhancing the feeling of being in the treetops.

Sharon notes, “The windows were a big part of it. The house is designed to make you feel like you’re in the Treetops.”

The design of the treehouse cabin includes practical elements, such as a full kitchen that Sharon and John use for their cooking endeavors.

“We both love cooking. We wanted a full kitchen, no matter what. So, we have big appliances and two sinks,” Sharon says.

The stone tile work in the kitchen, completed by John, adds a touch of elegance to the space.

The cabin also emphasizes sustainability with features like solar panels and rainwater collection.

Sharon explains, “We don’t have any links to water up here on the mountain. It’s just rainwater collected. It all works great.”

This self-sufficient approach reflects their commitment to living in harmony with their environment.

Opening their home as a B&B has been a rewarding experience for Sharon and John. “I think it’s been amazing. We meet so many different people and everyone looks after our space. We’ve never had a bad guest,” Sharon shares.

Reflecting on their journey, Sharon acknowledges the power of time and perseverance.

“Time heals. It’s made this process worthwhile. To look back at something from one of the worst times of your life and see this achievement is remarkable,” she says.

Sharon and John’s treehouse cabin is not just a home but a symbol of overcoming adversity and turning dreams into reality.

Take a look at Sharon and John’s treehouse cabin by watching the video below:

You can also visit Living Big In A Tiny House to watch more tiny home videos and The Jardin Collective on Instagram and Facebook to learn more about Sharon and Jonh’s BnB.