Hot tub in Joshua Tree

We have known Ben Nemtin for over 10 years and it has been amazing to see what he has accomplished. Ben is the #1 New York Times best-selling author of What Do You Want To Do Before You Die? and a star of the MTV show The Buried Life. He is recognized as one of the world’s best motivational speakers. Considering all that Ben has accomplished, we're amazed that he has still managed to find the time to renovate a space in Yucca Valley that is now available on Airbnb. We chatted with Ben and his partner, Michelle, to learn more about their new amazing space, Kinfolk Ranch.

Living Space OverviewSLOWTIDE: How long have you called this space home?

B: Just over two years. This is our home away from home, when we want to escape city life and be quiet in the desert. We bought the house from the original owners who built the home in 1956. It was important for us to keep the renovations minimal and preserve as much of the home's original characteristics as possible. Close up of corner in living roomSLOWTIDE:  Where do you look for design inspiration?

M: Everywhere! We don't really have a 'style' -- but if we did I'd call it 'travel chic'. We've pulled design elements from our travels through the Southwest and Mexico. Anywhere where nature and history are rich, we're inspired! 

SLOWTIDE:  Any DIY projects that you are happy with?

B: We have beautiful 300+ year old Joshua Trees on our property and we just finished a redwood octagon deck with a sunken hot-tub nestled in between the Joshua Trees. Soaking in the tub, looking up at the stars at night surrounded by giant joshua tree silhouettes makes you feel like you're on another planet.

Outside viewSLOWTIDE: Favorite furniture purchase?

M: Our outdoor rocking chairs. These chairs have seen a lot of laughs and sunsets. They're probably our most used purchase!

Bathroom overview

Bedroom

Want to stay at Kinfolk Ranch? You can book Kinfolk Ranch on Airbnb here. You can also follow them here on Instagram!

June 10, 2021