EXCLUSIVE: Joanna Gaines Gives a First Look at Her Finished Colorado Mountain Home

Spring is a season of inspiration, and the newest issue of the Magnolia Journal is leaning in. Inside, Joanna Gaines shares how she opens herself to inspiration, allowing her hobbies, breaks, and projects to create space for new ideas. She’s also sharing a project that will no doubt inspire you: the effervescent Colorado mountain house. To celebrate the release of the spring 2026 Magnolia Journal, we're giving you an exclusive look at a few of the rooms.

A Peek Inside the Retreat

“Our farmhouse in Waco will always be home, our first place for everyday life and family gatherings,” Gaines said. “But over time, Colorado has become its own character in the Gaines family story, thanks to a decade’s worth of spring break ski trips to the mountains.”

Here's a look at a few of Gaines' favorite spots inside the mountain retreat.

The Reading Room

The reading room elevates a typical book nook. Dark, moody walls make the natural-wood bench and light floors stand out; a charming white dome pendant light ties the space together. 

“The original galley kitchen felt too small for our family, so I thought this would make a lovely spot for a reading room,” Gaines said. “We added wall paneling and installed this beautiful reclaimed parquet flooring for a storied look. I chose a custom fabric for the bench for some whimsy and tucked in a small table for puzzles.”

As with everything she does, Gaines never misses the chance to focus on the thoughtful details. Look to the scalloped notches on the edge of the wood bench, knots in the natural wood, and subtle gold accents as proof of that. If you’re not already a bookworm, this space would no doubt turn you into one.

The Primary Suite

A peek into the cozy, rustic primary suite reveals soft natural light, matte-black fixtures, and carved wooden accents throughout.

“We turned what used to be the office into the primary bedroom,” Gaines said. “The wallpaper and scalloped trim on the paneling add a feminine feel, while the wood beams create a sense of heartiness. We created a primary bath by pushing into the original kitchen and half bath. We installed a double vanity and closets, plus a black soapstone backsplash and brass sconces for character.”

The mountain house's primary suite feels like a private oasis. The enchanting view of the woods outside, enhanced by the wood-framed double doors and massive windows, is the room's highlight. But if you can peel your eyes away from the focal point, you’ll be rewarded with many more details to appreciate. 

The family paid homage to the mountain house's cabin aesthetic by using exposed wood all throughout the home. Importantly, Gaines varies its presentation from room to room—so even though each space is cohesive, they all feel unique. In the primary suite, the scalloped wooden wall paneling is a perfect example of this; it’s a charming, playful detail that makes the bedroom feel more personal.

The Kitchen

“To create a gathering space large enough for our family and guests, we converted the original living room into a kitchen,” Gaines said. “We installed a paneled fridge, a new range and vent hood, double ovens, custom cabinets, and a large dining table that can fit our family and guests. The green tile backsplash plays off the view of the woods outside and contrasts nicely against the light oak.”

The result of the family's hard work is a kitchen that anyone would envy. The beautiful green backsplash is framed by thick wooden beams and open shelving; the light plays off each soft green tile, illuminating the space. A long, wooden dining table is surrounded by matching chairs with cutout details. Wall sconces hang next to the beautiful metal vent hood.

The Guest Cottage

For the entire family, the guest cabin is a special space. That’s because it was designed by Ella, the eldest daughter.

“In recent years, Ella has expressed interest in design, and Chip thought taking on the small guest cottage would be a perfect first project before she left for college,” Gaines said. “It was such a sweet, full-circle experience for me: getting to teach her what I’ve learned, but also watching her come into her own style and take the reins.”

The guest cottage is a culmination of Ella Gaines’ design experience. “Ella wanted to make this guest space feel moody and cozy, while still putting her own spin on it with her love of color and pattern,” Gaines said. “She added café curtains to the kitchen sink and living area for a cottage feel, chose a scalloped-edge backsplash and bold floor tile for the bathroom, and sprinkled delicate patterns and floral motifs throughout to soften the look.” 

Take the Full Tour

There’s so much more of the Colorado mountain house to discover, along with all the other exciting stories Gaines has to share with readers this spring. Grab a copy of the Magnolia Journal Spring 2026 issue online now at magazines.com, look for it on newsstands beginning Friday, Feb. 20, and read more on the Magnolia website.

Dive into its pages and find yourself whisked away to the sweet spring woods of Colorado. You can practically smell the fresh wood and flowers blooming outside.