Welcome to another installment of Hypedome Stories, where we explore the inspiring journeys of our customers and their exceptional spaces. Today, we’re visiting Shelly and her enchanting Desert Heart Airbnb, nestled in the stunning landscapes of Joshua Tree, California. Join us as we discover how Shelly and her husband transformed their passion for the outdoors into a unique retreat for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Q: The Desert Heart stands out with its stunning visuals and exceptional reviews on Airbnb. Can you tell us what sparked the idea to create such a unique getaway?
Shelly: My husband and I always admired Joshua Tree, especially for its captivating National Park. We’ve spent countless memorable moments camping and staying in Airbnbs around the area. The idea of having our own vacation spot there, just a three-hour drive from our Los Angeles home, was incredibly appealing. We dreamed of a cozy hideaway right in the heart of the desert’s unique landscape, somewhere far from the usual suburban feel, to give our guests a truly special experience.
Initially, finding a place that met all our criteria – seclusion, scenic views, and closeness to the National Park – proved challenging. But when we stumbled upon our home, it was love at first sight. Its location on a hill provided unparalleled views of mountains and valleys, and it was just a ten-minute drive from the park. It was the perfect balance between accessibility and immersion in nature.
Q: Can you share how did you transform the space to make it even more inviting for your guests?
Shelly: We started by building a deck on the north side, which was perfect for some yoga or just chilling out with that gorgeous view. Then, our property manager came up with this brilliant idea of adding a dome, and that’s when we discovered Hypedome. We loved how sturdy it was and that it could blend so seamlessly with the surrounding desert, all without any lasting impact on the landscape.
We were in a bit of a hurry to get everything ready for our 2023 guests, and you really came through for us. Your sales team promised speedy delivery from Europe and didn’t disappoint – the dome arrived just in time. It was a perfect match for our deck and truly transformed the space, giving our Airbnb that special something we were hoping for.
Q: The dome not only adds a unique feature to Desert Heart but also seems to enhance guest experiences, especially in the colder months. How have you tailored the interior to cater to guests?
Shelly: The dome turns into this snug haven in the winter, keeping our guests cozy even when the wind’s howling outside. We thought a lot about making the space versatile, so we went with furniture that can easily be moved around, letting guests find their perfect spot for lounging or taking in the views. And to keep everyone toasty, I’ve tucked in some super warm camping blankets inspired by the Joshua Tree surroundings. It’s all about making sure our guests can curl up and feel right at home.
Q: And with Joshua Tree's renowned dark skies, it sounds like the dome offers a prime stargazing opportunity.
Shelly: Absolutely! Being a certified Dark Sky Park, Joshua Tree is perfect for stargazing, thanks to its minimal light pollution. We affectionately call it the “Stargazing Dome” because it really brings out the beauty of the night sky. The area’s lack of development and street lights means our guests can enjoy a clear, unobstructed view of the stars. It’s a peaceful, magical experience, offering a unique opportunity to just immerse yourself in the vast night sky.
Q: How does your Airbnb’s dome enhance the guest experience, especially with Joshua Tree's unique desert climate, throughout the year?
Shelly: In Joshua Tree, winter nights can get quite cool, dropping to around 40°F (around 0°C). It’s a bit brisk for those enjoying the vast outdoors. The dome, however, offers a snug haven, keeping guests cozy while they soak in the natural beauty around them. We’ve received fantastic feedback from everyone – kids and adults alike adore the warmth and comfort it provides. Our Airbnb is designed with families and groups in mind, featuring three bedrooms and plenty of space for everyone. It’s the perfect spot for those looking for both comfort and adventure in their getaway.
Q: Desert Heart boasts an impressive array of amenities that make it a standout choice for guests visiting Joshua Tree. Can you tell us about the features available at your spot?
Shelly: Certainly. We kicked things off with a hot tub, an instant hit for guests seeking relaxation amidst the desert backdrop. Aware of the competitive landscape in Joshua Tree’s vacation rental market, we aimed to go above and beyond. This led us to introduce a hardwired gas firepit for cozy night gatherings, a ping pong table and dart board for a bit of friendly competition, and a variety of outdoor games, all designed to enhance the guest experience.
The stargazing dome has truly set us apart, offering magical photos that make people stop scrolling and click! The key was to incorporate the Joshua Tree and the breathtaking views visible from our dome into these photos. In one photo, we have the night sky view, ensuring Desert Heart remains a recognizable and memorable retreat in a competitive market.
Q: Considering all the enhancements you've made to Desert Heart, do you have any exciting plans for new additions or updates coming up?
Shelly: Definitely! At the core of what we do, we’re always looking to bring something new and exciting for our guests. Adding a pool is high on our list. With the summer heat here in the desert, a pool would be the perfect spot for our guests to cool off and relax. We’re also inspired by the amazing local artists in Joshua Tree and plan to showcase their work through art installations around Desert Heart. This will not only beautify our space but also offer our guests unique photo ops against a backdrop where the desert’s natural beauty meets artistic expression.
Q: With the effort and care you’ve invested in Desert Heart, do you manage to spend some personal time there, or is it usually occupied by guests?
Shelly: Oh, we definitely carve out time for ourselves there, about once a month. It’s our little oasis, but also an opportunity to spruce things up. Whether it’s a short weekend or a few days, there’s always something we’re excited to add or tweak – maybe it’s a bit of gardening or a new decor piece. There’s this detached structure on-site we’re eyeing for our next project: turning it into a video arcade. It’s not just for our guests; we’re looking forward to enjoying that bit of nostalgia and fun, too.
Q: How do you enjoy the Hypedome, especially since it's such a great spot for stargazing and relaxing?
Shelly: (Laughs) Honestly, I rarely make it to stargazing time, though I’d love to more often. Instead, I end up tidying or just relaxing inside. The dome’s design really draws me in, and I love taking photos of its hexagonal shape against the desert scene – it looks stunning. Driving up and seeing it shimmer has really changed how we view that part of our property, turning a once simple side of the house into something quite special.
Q: With Joshua Tree's reputation for extreme weather, especially strong winds, how does the dome stand up to such conditions?
Shelly: You’re right; the winds out here can really pick up. That’s exactly why we chose a dome with heavy-duty anchoring. It’s comforting to know we’ve got a secure spot that holds up against the wind. So, even on the gustiest days, the dome provides a peaceful retreat, letting us enjoy the outdoors without worry.
Q: It's been great hearing about Desert Heart, Shelly. Before we wrap up, is there anything else you'd like to share with our readers?
Shelly: Sure, thanks for having me. Really, at its heart, Desert Heart was all about embracing the outdoors – that’s what people come to Joshua Tree for, after all. The transparent Hypedome S has been a fantastic addition for us, offering a unique way for our guests to enjoy the beauty around them, differently than they would in a city. It’s just another way to be outside and appreciate the surroundings, which I think is pretty special, and I love it.
Our visit with Shelly and the story of Desert Heart has been nothing short of inspiring. From the inception of their dream to the thoughtful details that make their Airbnb a haven for guests, it’s clear that Desert Heart is a labor of love. We invite you to experience the magic of Desert Heart for yourself and encourage you to explore more stories like Shelly’s in our Hypedome Stories series. Each story is a testament to creativity, passion, and the endless possibilities of Hypedome.