Sara and Rich Combs had a very big dream: to own a getaway edging a National Park. “We were getting kind of burnt out doing web design and being on our computers all of the time,” says Sara. “We decided to start doing freelance work, and we started going to all these National Parks along the southern US. We felt so inspired being in those creative communities. It just all felt right.”
They purchased a house in Joshua Tree, California to use as a creative retreat and rent out when they weren’t using it. “It ended up doing so well that we realized, ‘Hey, actually, we could turn this into something a little bit more than just a personal creative retreat.’” After successfully investing in short-term rental properties, they longed to create an inn. “We had an urge to create something even more communal and ended up getting an inn in Tucson, Arizona, which is bordering Saguaro National Park.”
But when they first stumbled upon the structure that would become The Joshua Tree House, it was down on its luck. “It was in disrepair, and that’s part of why we were able to get it. It was sitting [vacant] for about ten years. Nothing was functional, really, but it still had incredible bones, which is why we fell in love with it,” she recalls. “We kept all the original details that we could, like the ceilings, and replaced everything that had been gutted [by a previous owner].”
Thankfully, Sara and Rich both have an eye for beauty—and a clear muse in the surrounding landscapes. “The design is definitely inspired by the natural landscape around us,” she says. To that end, the property is stocked with vintage books they collect: guides to the region’s flora and fauna. “We really want our guests to be able to have the chance to come out here and take a moment to slow down.”
Some other must-haves were a record player; playlists they’ve created for their guests; and, no surprise, comfy beds. “You have to get a good night’s sleep in order to enjoy anything else,” says Sara, who recommends Tuft & Needle mattresses. “We also use their linen sheets, which I think are perfect for our climate.”
But the best might just be the guest experiences they can’t necessarily offer at a stand-alone house rental. “We have a yoga room where people can get a massage, or do a sound bath, or take a yoga class,” says Sara. “We’ve started to do more community things like a painting workshop, for example.” In other words, it’s just what dreams are made of.
/ Written by Kathryn O’Shea-Evans
Photography by Margaret Austin Photography.
how to book.
Tucson, Arizona inn Joshua Tree, California houses:
www.thejoshuatreehouse.com
tucson
tourist guide.
Sara Combs shares a few of her favorite local recommendations for doing, dining, and drinking.
Get Outdoorsy.
“Number one is definitely Saguaro National Park,” says Sara. “One of our favorite trails there is Hugh Norris—it’s a really incredible view at the top, and only about a five-minute drive from the inn.”
Eat Like a Local.
“Tucson is a great place for Mexican food, and one of our favorite spots is Seis [Kitchen],” she says. “They have great tacos and burritos and a beautiful little courtyard.” On the menu: tacos al pastor with marinated pork, pineapple, cilantro, onion, lime, and a dusting of queso fresco.
Power Up.
“At the inn, we have Exo Roast Co. coffee,” says Sara. “But I always recommend everyone go to [Exo’s] coffee shop because it’s in the Barrio, which is a really historical, beautiful neighborhood of all original adobe buildings.”
