Review: I Stayed in the Shotgun House From 'Fixer Upper'
The author embarked on a one-night trip to Waco, Texas, from Austin to experience staying in one of the homes featured on HGTV's "Fixer Upper." Waco, once known for the 1993 Branch Davidian siege, has been revitalized by Chip and Joanna Gaines' renovation show, transforming into a tourist destination centered around their Magnolia Market and The Silos. This development has also contributed to gentrification and rising property taxes in the area.
After visiting The Silos, Magnolia Market, and Magnolia Table, the author decided to deepen the "Fixer Upper" experience by staying in one of the renovated homes available for rent on Airbnb. Several homes from the show are listed, including the "mid-century modern" home and the "barndominium." The author chose the Shotgun House, featured in season three's "Tiny House, Big Charm" episode, based on its price, location, and suitability for a single traveler. The total cost for the one-night stay was $390.38, including fees.
The journey to the Shotgun House from the Greyhound bus stop, though short, was complicated by a lack of sidewalks, highlighting a potential safety concern for pedestrians. Upon arrival, the house's exterior was decorated for fall with pumpkins, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Inside, the 1,050-square-foot Shotgun House presented a tidy and quaint living and kitchen space. The living room featured comfortable furnishings, blending modern and vintage decor. A guestbook revealed visitors from across the country, some drawn by the show and others by the comfortable accommodation and convenient location.
The kitchen, designed with modern white-oak cabinets and black countertops, offered ample storage despite its compact size and lack of upper cabinets. A vintage-looking Smeg fridge added a homey touch and was stocked with complimentary water, soda, and treats. The large farm sink, a common feature in Gaines' renovations, included a garbage disposal, an amenity appreciated by the author. The kitchen backsplash featured unique square subway tiles, and floating shelves displayed dishes and commemorative items, including a framed photo of the homeowners with Chip and Joanna Gaines.
A distinctive feature of the Shotgun House was its loft area, accessible by retractable stairs. The loft housed a desk and a fold-down sofa bed, though the narrow and steep stairs made it less practical for frequent use. A hallway off the bedroom led to French doors opening to a backyard with a fire pit, offering views of The Silos. The hallway and bathroom featured decorative teal-colored tiles, matching the bedroom's paint. The house also provided a full-size washer and dryer.
The bedroom featured a comfortable queen-size bed on a wooden platform. The decor included memorabilia, and a chest of drawers contained extra bedding and towels. The author watched the Shotgun House's "Fixer Upper" episode, noting that much of the furniture and even the bedding from the show's final reveal remained, a deviation from the usual practice where homeowners often buy the staged items.
The bathroom was highlighted for its high-quality shower, warm lighting, and concrete sinks, which contributed to a modern yet cozy feel. A drawer stocked with toiletries was a thoughtful touch. The dark paint and blinds in the bedroom ensured a comfortable night's sleep. In the morning, a fully stocked coffee drawer in the kitchen provided convenience. The house's proximity to popular Waco attractions and a list of local recommendations from the owners further enhanced the stay. The overall experience was positive, combining comfort, convenience, and a unique connection to the "Fixer Upper" phenomenon, making it a memorable stay for fans and non-fans alike.
#FixerUpper #WacoTexas #AirbnbStay #HomeRenovation #ChipAndJoannaGaines #ShotgunHouse #MagnoliaMarket #HomeDesignReview #TravelExperience #FixerUpper #WacoTexas #AirbnbStay #HomeRenovation #ChipAndJoannaGaines #ShotgunHouse #MagnoliaMarket #HomeDesignReview #TravelExperience
No comments yet
Crate & Barrel Sofa Review: A Home Editor Put it to the Test
