Before & After: Farmhouse
The Farmhouse Motel is a historic property at the base of downtown Paso Robles. Originally established in 1947, it operated as a classic mid-century motor lodge for decades, serving travelers exploring California’s Central Coast.
In 2023, we undertook a comprehensive renovation of the property, transforming it into a boutique hotel while preserving its original bungalow footprint and charm. The redesign focused on the unique layout of the existing cottages, a feature uncommon in downtown hotels, creating a bed-and-breakfast-style retreat of a modern age.
The guestrooms design concept was rooted in nature. The rooms feature Jim Thompson textiles, artwork by Susan Hable, and custom headboards. Most rooms have front porches with views of the common gardens for guests to enjoy a morning coffee or afternoon rose’.
The bathrooms were the biggest challenge. The footprint was tiny, and showers were like capsules. Our challenge was to turn the worst element of the bathroom into its feature. We lined the shower walls with stunning zellige from Cle tile and used custom curved glass to replace the shower curtain.
Outside of the cottages guests can enjoy numerous garden spaces with firepits, fountains and lounge seating throughout. Standing above the main garden is a vintage faux bois bird house I found in Oklahoma. All birds welcome.
