A Denver Vacation Home Turned Dreamy Second Home | The Carnett Project Pt. 2

 

When we first started The Carnett Project, the vision was to create a high-end Airbnb. Over the last six months, we transformed every single bathroom, refreshed the living spaces, and added thoughtful design touches throughout. But on reveal day? Our clients walked in and instantly knew… this was too good to share! Instead of becoming an Airbnb, this stunning home is now their cherished second home in Denver — and we can’t blame them one bit.

Take a tour of The Carnett Project’s primary bedroom & bathroom, home office, guest bedrooms & bathrooms, and lower-level family room, all designed by Denver Interior Design Studio, Basil & Tate.

Primary Bedroom: Oaky, Airy & Serene

This space used to be drenched in deep blue and purple — ceilings, walls, even the adjoining bathroom. We completely neutralized the palette, refreshing everything with soft, airy paint, warm oak furnishings, and a mix of light neutrals and earthy accents.

One of our favorite details? The built-in coffee table in the seating area — the perfect spot to sip coffee while catching the morning news. Elegant drapery softens the space and adds a romantic feel that makes this room a true retreat.

Primary Bathroom: a Showstopper Transformation

This might be the most dramatic renovation in the home. The bathroom once featured a double-sided fireplace that opened into the closet — meaning all that closet clutter was on full display. We removed the fireplace, added a wall for separation, and completely reimagined the layout.

Now, the steam shower is the star of the show, with creative tilework that makes it a piece of art. Heated floors run throughout, the bathtub sits on an elevated platform beneath a chandelier, and the vanity got a refresh with paint and new lighting while keeping the original neutral countertops.

The result? A bathroom that feels brand new, spa-like, and timeless.

Carnett Project - Basil and Tate - Denver
Carnett Project - Basil and Tate - Denver
 
 
The Carnett Project home office, a Denver vacation home renovation by Basil & Tate Denver Interior Design Studio

Home Office: a Deep, Dramatic Makeover

This former bedroom now functions as a dual-purpose home office for two people who work virtually. We went bold with color drenching — painting the walls, trim, and closet in a rich, dark hue that makes the lighter artwork pop.

Instead of built-in storage, we chose a sleek desk table accessible from both sides, so two laptops can easily share the space. The result is a workspace that feels both elevated and inspiring.

The Carnett Project home office, a Denver vacation home renovation by Basil & Tate Denver Interior Design Studio
The Carnett Project home office, a Denver vacation home renovation by Basil & Tate Denver Interior Design Studio

Guest Bedrooms & Bathrooms: Where Form Meets Function

Since this home was originally meant to be an Airbnb, all the bedrooms feature white bedding for easy care — but that doesn’t mean they’re short on style. We layered in personality with colorful throws, patterned pillows, curated art, and beautiful drapery.

Highlights include:

  • Adding closets to two guest rooms (one of which used to have a mini kitchenette!).

  • Transforming quirky layouts into functional, welcoming spaces.

  • Creating bathrooms with unique tilework in each — from darker, moody tones to fresh, bright finishes.

  • Removing a urinal (yes, really) and reconfiguring the space to include a proper shower, vanity, and updated fixtures.

One of my favorite small-but-mighty upgrades? Adding shaving niches in the lower-level shower — a tiny luxury that makes a big difference.

The Carnett Project guest bedroom room, a Denver vacation home renovation by Basil & Tate Denver Interior Design Studio

Lower-Level Family Room: Playful & Comfortable for Gathering

We wanted this to be a space where friends and family could gather, relax, and have fun. A large TV anchors the room for movie nights or game days, while a foosball table and playful artwork bring a sense of energy. Board games and cozy seating make this a true hangout spot for all ages.

Carnett Project - Basil and Tate - Denver

From Vacation Home to Forever Favorite

What began as a business venture evolved into a deeply personal retreat for our clients. By rethinking layouts, updating finishes, and layering in both functionality and beauty, we created a home that feels effortless, elevated, and entirely theirs.

Whether it’s the spa-worthy bathroom, the dramatic home office, or the playful family room, every corner of The Carnett Project tells a story — and now, it’s one they’ll enjoy for years to come. Be sure to take a look back at Part 1 of this Denver home renovation if you missed it!

Planning Your Own Vacation Home or Second Home Renovation?

Whether you’re designing a weekend getaway or dreaming up a full-time Denver home renovation, we’d love to help bring your vision to life. Our team specializes in elevated, neutral interiors with warm, organic design and a strong sense of place.

As a trusted Denver interior designer, we work on homes throughout the greater metro area — in Colorado and beyond — to create spaces that feel beautifully lived-in, effortlessly styled, and always personal.

Ready to get your home project started?

If you’re considering a home renovation, vacation home remodel, or need help designing your custom home build, we’d love to bring your vision to life. Book a complimentary discovery call with us today, and let’s start designing your dream home!

 
 
 

Ready to elevate your home?

From Denver home renovations to creating custom new-build homes, the design team here at Basil & Tate is ready to help you bring goodness home. If you’re looking for an expert design eye to help with furnishing, remodeling or building from the ground up, let’s schedule a chat and see if our design team is the right fit for your home project.

 
 
 

Welcome to Basil & Tate— a full-service residential interior design studio serving Denver, Colorado & beyond, curating bespoke interiors that seamlessly blend comfort, nature and timeless design. We describe our design aesthetic as earthy, organic, and elevated. If you like a combination of classic and modern design, mixed with soft neutral colors and natural textures, you’re in the right place.

Whether you’re looking for an interior designer to save you time on your custom home renovation or to help bring your luxury new-build vision to life, the interior design experts at Basil & Tate will be with you every step of the way to deliver a turn-key, white-glove design experience. 

Looking for interior design services within the Denver, Colorado area? Let's get in touch.


 
 
 
 

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