Before & After: A Southwest-Style House Gets a Chic Modern Makeover

Name: Rhoby Schempp and Wilson (older male cat) Nonna (warrior princess female kitty)
Location: Rio Rancho, New Mexico
Size: 865 square feet
Years lived in: 6 months, owned

I landed in New Mexico January of this year (2018). After living many places, having many adventures, and significant deaths in my family on the East Coast, I decided to head west! I have always loved the four corners and traveled across country many times in my youth. I felt a calling to New Mexico but decided to take some time off and travel the four corners in search of a new life and home.

I bought a one way ticket to Colorado and rented a little VW Tiguan (which I loved so much, I now own!). I took my time, headed all the way and through Colorado, hiking, checking out hot springs and local eats. I traveled through Utah (What an amazing planet!), through Arizona, and landed in New Mexico Christmas Eve. As soon as I drove into Santa Fe, I knew, this was it!

I had Airbnb’d my way around and with luck from the universe, my Airbnb in Santa Fe turned into a sublet. I started looking for a house right away. Everything just started falling into place. I found a realtor (I now consider a sister) and settled here in Rio Rancho, about 20 minutes from Albuquerque and 40 minutes to Santa Fe.

I had big remodeling dreams! I found some guys (through my realtor) to help with labor and stripped my new house down to the concrete! I planned out my design (completely inspired by the Airbnb world), purchased all materials, wood floors, tile… basically, I was the designer, the general contractor, foreman, you name it! I am in love with my complete remodel.

Thanks, Rhoby!

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