The Desert Is Their Inspiration. The $600,000 Art Studio? Their Oasis.

by anastasiakaufman-chime-me

By Alina DizikFeb. 15, 2023 11:00 am ET

ILLUSTRATION: SYD WEILER

Wendy Wacker wanted a space to do her creative writing when she built a 144-square-foot studio at her second home. She made it her own private sanctuary by having the only entrance connect to her bedroom. She made it more welcoming by using the Mojave Desert as a focal point.

“When you’re standing in there, it’s like being in a fishbowl looking out; the landscape is dramatic,” says Ms. Wacker. The studio rests on a platform that floats above the ground. Huge glass doors open on three sides but can’t be used for entry.

The writer purchased 160 acres for $85,000 in 2012 and spent more than $2 million on the construction of her 4,600-square-foot main home. She added more acreage over the years. The solar-powered house was completed in two phases: the main home and studio in 2019 and the two outbuildings, connected by walkways, this year.

Her Yucca Valley, Calif., property now includes a lap pool, music space, bunk room and a brand-new art gallery that showcases her private collection. The home is all on one floor and laid out in a cross shape. She owns a primary home in nearby Indian Wells, Calif…READ MORE>>>https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-desert-is-their-inspiration-the-600-000-art-studio-their-oasis-d86620b7?st=fhqx8qw1e7bxbvb&mod=e2fbrlst&fbclid=IwAR1PryzKZmH4HROp2gtt67VMoUB1zqsfTIy2aEwBQvqdPl_h6J3aG65Fnuo