The Bloomhouse

Quirky Airbnbs: A Trippy Austin Home Where Right Angles Don't Exist | Condé Nast Traveler

"I stayed in a mind-bending, fairytale-like one-bedroom, one-bath Airbnb in Westlake Highlands that looks different from every angle and feels like a habitable sculpture; designed in the ’70s by UT students Dalton Bloom and Charles Harker, the home took eight years to develop using materials then uncommon (like polyurethane foam) and, as Harker put it, the forms are “designed much like music.” The space is full of nooks and crannies—a spiral staircase leads up to a cozy reading nook and balcony, and downstairs are a practical kitchen and living area—yet it’s surprisingly functional with plenty of cooking essentials, small appliances, a dishwasher, microwave, towels, toiletries, and outlets where you need them. After being purchased and lovingly renovated in 2017 by Dave and Susan Claunch (18 months of work), the owners preserved the original charm while adding comfortable West Elm furniture, a BBQ grill, twinkle lights, an outdoor dining area and shower, and small whimsical touches like a butterfly-shaped mirror. It sleeps four (1 queen bed and a sofa bed) and has a two-night minimum; the property feels remote and quiet—about a 25-minute drive from downtown—making it ideal for architecture buffs or anyone seeking a creative, contemplative retreat (I was spooked the first night by all the odd angles but warmed up by day two)." - Madison Flager