Relaxed Retreat – The Bust’n B Ranch by Sydney Ballesteros

In a fusion of Wild West iconography and distinct Mexican desert influences, The Bust’n B Ranch is both reflective of its surrounds and comfortable. Sydney Ballesteros responds to the unique and remote location in an unexpected combination of luxury finishes and detailing, ensuring the home sits in stark contrast to the untouched environment.

The Bust’n B Ranch was imagined as its own unique destination. “We wanted to connect guests with nature and create a relaxing experience,” explains owners Wendy and Edgar Langman. In reflecting the history of the area and the community the home sits within, they add, “we sought to create an atmosphere that pushed the envelope further with a contemporary take [on the Santa Fe south-western style that the house already had] and took some inspiration from the West Coast and cowboy culture.” Once home to the Sherriff of San Bernadino County, The Bust’n B Ranch focuses on further capturing the rich narrative of the area and a coming together of differences. Sydney Ballesteros ensures the newest chapter carefully combines tradition and innovation as an undercurrent throughout.

“There is a strong lineage and connection in the materials and hand work of multi-generational artisanal objects such as pottery, weavings, metalwork, woodwork and the hand painted tiles from Mexico perfectly patterned in the primary bathroom.” (Sydney Ballesteros)

Located in Joshua Tree, the unique landscape and combination of sculptural trees and pastel skies sets the scene for a truly unique experience. Leaning into the setting as inspiration, the effect of being immersed in such ever-changing nature ensures a reminder of the power of the landscape. Returning to the origins of the home as the base for a working ranch, the design team wanted to ensure organic materiality was felt throughout. “There is a strong lineage and connection in the materials and handwork of multi-generational artisanal objects such as pottery, weavings, metalwork, woodwork and the hand painted tiles from Mexico perfectly patterned in the primary bathroom,” describes Sydney Ballesteros and continues, “with the vision beginning with an basic design of an Santa Fe-style home located in the Mojave Desert.”

Through a considered approach, and the integration of new features that heighten the engagement with the landscape, new insertions elevate that which existed previously. The inclusion of the in-ground saltwater pool, red cedar sauna and a series of other amenities then soften the transition between being fully enclosed and amid the elements. While the original home was built in 2003, this latest iteration adds additional layers that acknowledge the past, the important story of the area and the connection between buildings and earth. “Surrounded by the mountains and the untouched beauty of the desert, The Bust’n B Ranch feels like an extension of home for me,” describes Sydney. “I wanted to provide a balanced mix of storytelling through references to the Indigenous and Latin cultures and an appreciation of traditional techniques crafted from Mexico to New Mexico.”

Leaning into the setting as inspiration, the effect of being immersed in such ever-changing nature ensures a reminder of the power of the landscape in how a home can ultimately feel.

In an expression of its remoteness, The Bust’n B Ranch aims to provide a regenerative experience and returns to traditional techniques to integrate handmade details as much as possible. Honouring the surrounds, the natural elements and the rituals of place, Sydney Ballesteros wanted to capture that spirit in remaining as true to the home’s origins.