Designing for short-term rentals is about so much more than making a space look good. It’s about strategy. Flow. Guest experience. And in this case? A stunning lakefront view that deserved to be the star of the show.

Welcome to The Water’s Edge—a once-forgotten 1980s fish camp turned high-performing vacation rental on Lake Conroe, Texas. Just an hour outside Houston, this quiet cove has become home to one of our most transformation-driven projects to date.

From Forgotten Cabin to Scroll-Stopping Getaway

Our clients came to us with a vision: create a modern, design-forward lake house that feels relaxing, refined, and above all—books out. We said yes immediately.

Because this? This is what we love most. Taking a property with great bones and designing every inch of it to shine on Airbnb, feel cohesive in person, and generate real returns.

Design-Led Vacation Rental Renovation

Originally built in 1980, this 864 sq ft raised lake house needed a complete gut renovation. When new owners acquired it at the end of 2023, they had one goal: launch a top-tier short-term rental by Summer 2024.

We led this project from concept to completion using our signature designer-led renovation process. That means a master design plan before construction, full documentation and support during the build, and thoughtful sourcing all the way through styling and install.

The transformation was dramatic. We tackled outdated systems, reimagined awkward layouts, and swapped tired finishes for durable, high-design materials made to wow guests and withstand turnover.

See the @StudioCroft Instagram Highlight titled “Water’s Edge” for a BEFORE video walkthrough and project progress photos.

“This property is beautiful! The designer knocked it out of the park with all of the design choices… colorful and cohesive.
Love it so much!”

— Sandy L., The Water's Edge Launch Party Guest

Kitchen Overhaul with Hosting in Mind

The original kitchen was tiny, dark, and poorly laid out. The new version? Center stage.

By relocating the living area to the upper level, we created space for a generous kitchen island where guests naturally gather. We closed off a window with a poor view, expanded cabinetry across the back wall, and introduced custom flat-panel cabinets in a deep, sophisticated blue.

Highlights include:

Concealed luxury appliances: drawer dishwasher, speed oven, integrated fridge/freezer
White oak island with quartz waterfall countertops
Brass pendant lighting and open shelving for guest-friendly access
Seamless flow to the dining area and panoramic lake views

Dining Room: First Impressions Matter

Located just inside the front door, the dining space is now a design moment. Larger windows bring in natural light and lake views. A sculptural chandelier, colorful art, and updated finishes set the tone for the entire stay.

Living Room: Bigger Style, Better Function

The reconfigured layout allowed for a spacious sectional with a queen sleeper—adding both comfort and extra guest capacity. We removed a closet to improve flow, added a recessed niche with floating oak shelves, and kept furnishings light and minimal to maximize usable space.

In small vacation homes, scale and layout are everything. The right decisions here support better bookings and a more comfortable guest stay.

Primary Bedroom: Elevated and Intentional

The larger of the two bedrooms now features a king-size bed, floating wall-to-wall headboard, and thoughtful lighting. During framing, we opened a wall to create en suite access to the bathroom—a major privacy upgrade for guests.

Custom drapery, strategic window placement, and sloped ceiling detailing all contribute to a restful, high-end guest experience.

Secondary Bedroom: Cohesive, Comfortable, Consistent

Smaller in size, but just as refined. This room mirrors the material palette of the primary suite, with unique art and accessories for a complementary look. Queen bed, smart storage, and great light make it a perfect second sleep space.

Bathroom: Boutique-Hotel Worthy

We reimagined the cramped original bathroom into a spa-like retreat. Think double vanity, frameless glass shower, brass fixtures, and stunning water inspired accent tile that nods to the lake just outside. Durable, beautiful, and built for turnover.

“Beautifully designed retreat. Stayed 2 nights and love the artwork, the modern kitchen with backsplash that mimics waves on the water, and the beautiful bath tile that I wish was in my home. Lake views throughout. Modern style with lots of comfort! ”

— Teresa C., Airbnb Guest

Exterior Transformation: From Dated to Destination-Worthy

The home’s existing architectural shape had potential—it just needed the right design vision. Fresh paint, black aluminum windows, expanded decks, and modern privacy screens now give this home major curb appeal.

Deck Expansion: Outdoor Living with a Wow Factor

We rebuilt the rear deck from the ground up, expanding usable space and adding a one-of-a-kind architectural net lounge—a unique feature guests remember and talk about in reviews.

New metal cable railings preserve the view, and multiple seating zones offer space to relax, connect, and soak in the 180-degree lake panorama.

Results That Speak for Themselves

Since the renovation, The Water’s Edge has booked up fast, attracted rave reviews, and already seen increased nightly rates and occupancy. And that’s before the backyard transformation we completed in April 2025 (coming soon in a future post).

Want a Vacation Rental That Performs Like This?

Let’s talk. We specialize in designer-led vacation rental transformations that increase visibility, guest satisfaction, and ROI.

Book your discovery call today and see how we can help you create a standout stay.

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