This is definitely a unique space and the reviews are accurate. Before you read the comments below, understand the good outweighs the bad. Also, we would definitely stay here again. That said, some details need to be shared so that everyone can make an informed decision.
The Good:
- Dee is a great host. Quick to respond to issues and very professional
- The location is fantastic. I can't say enough about how convenient the neighborhood is. You also feel very safe. We went out at night and never felt like we needed to look over our shoulders
- The layout is unique and fun. I believe I saw someone comment "industrial chic" and that is accurate
- Many of the elements in the space are high end. The refrigerator, stove, and bathroom are all top notch
- The loft is fun. It's whimsical and reminds me of tent camping (in a good way)
The Less Than Good:
- The place is showing its wear. The pictures online are older and the place definitely is a little rough around the edges now. Much of the structural pieces were created with OSB (oriented stranded board) which is not intended to be a sole structural element. The door to the bathroom has lost its handle. The door to the utility area doesn't close easily. The shelves in some of the cabinets are bowed because OSB isn't intended for shelving. The outside fencing and chairs should probably be replaced or at least restained. The cracks in the fence make it easier for passers by to eaves drop on you when you're in the hot tub.
- We arrived to a dirty apartment. The bed was unmade. Dirty towels were in the bathroom. Dee responded immediately and refunded our cleaning fee. This helped offset some of the issue but still a bit disconcerting in the age of covid.
- You can hear the people in the main house. Others have commented and it is definitely noticeable. It wasn't overly loud and it didn't keep us up at night, but you need to understand that you might be hearing voices coming from the other side of the wall.
- The pictures are accurate but they do not convey how close you are to the street. It's sort of like your right side car mirror ... objects are closer than they appear. The sidewalk is about 25 feet from the beautiful glass doors and the hot tub is much closer to the street. If you leave the curtains open, passers by can definitely look in on you while you are sleeping. Changing needs to be done with the curtains closed or in the bathroom. The pictures don't lie but they do give you an example of how a wide-angle camera lens can be used to distort reality.
- The hot tub appeared clean but the seats were slippery. When combined with the uncleaned apartment, I got the feeling a I was sharing the tub with the last guest.
- The concept is great but does fall a little short in areas. The bathroom lacks storage space. There are only two towel hangers and no real counter space for a couple to share their toiletries. The climbing blocks to the bed are neat but difficult to navigate. A ship's ladder could have kept the industrial look without the feeling that you're summiting Everest every night.