Big Rock Ranch: A Thomboy Properties Summer Hideaway

Jackie Thomas and DeeAnn McCoy, the design duo behind Thomboy Properties, recently updated the exterior of their mountain cabin, Big Rock Ranch, in the tranquil hideaway of Idyllwild, Calif. As a longstanding partner, Dunn-Edwards teamed up to assist with exterior color and product choices, with outstanding results. And, to gain a better understanding of the special and unique qualities of this getaway, Thomas and McCoy added colorful background to the beauty of this property.

Please describe the history of this cabin and why you purchased it?

The original 400-square-foot guest house was built in the late 1950s/early 1960s, and the owners used it as lodging while they built the main 1,800-square-foot house. We acquired this cabin in the summer of 2016 as an escape from the summer heat in Palm Springs. The moment we walked in, we knew it was the one
for us. It had amazing views from Marion Mountain to Lily Rock, and over to Garner Valley. It was bright and airy with a split-level floor plan highlighted by dramatic open-beam styling and lots of glass to capture the beautiful setting and breathtaking views. The living room featured a floor-to-ceiling, native-stone fireplace that flowed into to a stunning 420-square-foot family/game room with cathedral ceilings, wood stove, and wonderful views through walls of glass. It was exactly what we were looking for.

Please describe the design aesthetic goal when you remodeled it?
We wanted a mountain aesthetic to be true to the style and location of the house but, as you know, we are also diehard Modernists so we opted for what we call “Mountain Modern.” We incorporated modern design through materials like Montauk Black Slate flooring, gray quartz countertops, modern shower tiles and
bath fixtures, and vintage furnishings. We further accentuated the original rustic cabin details, which had Shiplap walls and tongue and groove ceilings with oak cabinets, wood paneling, an original antler chandelier from a previous cabin in central Oregon, and appropriate art and accessories to blend the two design aesthetics.

Were there any design or construction challenges along the way?
The house did not have a master bathroom but it had four bedrooms in the main house, so we converted the master bedroom closest into a master bathroom retreat and walk-in closet. We also updated and reconfigured the flow of the guest house to take advantage of the natural light and to make it feel aesthetically
connected to the main house.

Why Idyllwild? What is it about the town that you enjoyed having a cabin here as a getaway?

Due to the proximity (1 hour and 5 mins door to door) and the fact that it’s mile high (6,000 feet), this wonderful mountain town — with its proximity to Palm Springs and temperature differential (25 to 30 degrees cooler than Palm Springs) — proved to be the perfect getaway. In addition, we love the natural
beauty of local wildlife; large pine, oak and Manzanita trees; mountain views; great hiking trails; and food scene. The town is quaint, the people are welcoming and friendly, and it snows in the winter.

You chose Weathered Brown for the exterior. What made you lean to this color?

Our aesthetic in Palm Springs is white, light and bright. We love Weathered Brown (DEC756) and have used it over the past decade to trim out facia, beams and doors as accent colors. We have been trying to find the perfect house to go dark. So, when we decided to paint the exterior of Big Rock Ranch, Weathered
Brown became the perfect choice because it allowed us to create a dramatic look while blending the house with its natural setting.

What’s next for Thomboy Properties? What can we look forward to seeing in the future from you?

We are currently working on a 1954 Wexler called the Lilliana Gardens Glass House. After working for William Cody, it was Wexler and Harrison’s first commission when they set out on their own. It’s a beautiful, 3,000-square-foot glass box that has spectacular light and views. We can’t wait to share it with you. And, no surprise, we plan to incorporate some Weathered Brown. We anticipate an early February completion date. Stay tuned...

All images courtesy of Thomboy Properties