The Dolly Cottage

Just outside of Gruene, Texas, a Dolly Parton-themed AirB&B hideaway that sleeps up to 8 people is the perfect getaway from the usual “9 to 5.” Covered in pink decor and custom art pieces, this classic farmhouse design topped with Dolly Parton quotes seems as if it was plucked straight from Dollywood itself. The attention to detail in this home caught my eye, and when I came across our Marfa wallpaper in the primary bath, I needed to know more. Heather Sage was kind enough to invite us in and give us the full scoop on designing this inimitable space, full of character and personality at every turn.

KK Team: What was the inspiration behind your Dolly-themed AirB&B? 

HS- My uncle, Frankie Miller, played The Grand Ole Opry with Dolly Parton, and for me, it was love at first sight! She was beautiful, sparkly, and so kind, and I have been obsessed with her ever since. I grew up in a family that loved listening to and playing country music. My dad was also in a band, and my grandpa played the local opry on the weekends. Dolly’s music and sense of style are just part of our country roots. I mean, who doesn’t love Dolly? She really is a national treasure! 

KK Team: How did you choose the Marfa wallpaper? What do you love about it? 

HS- During COVID, my husband and I decided to pack up the kids and take these crazy, long road trips across the country. On one of these trips, while driving across the vast, flat West Texas desert, we passed through Marfa. It was during one of those beautiful sunsets. Marfa, with its perfect golden light, all its galleries, the wide open skies, and the iconic Prada store. It was just... perfect. When I ran across your wallpaper, I lit up with excitement! It was one of those what would Dolly do moments. I designed the entire house around Katie’s precious wallpaper. Dolly, Prada, Texas. It was a match made in heaven. 

KK Team: What other projects are you currently working on? 

HS- My husband and I are both native Texans, but we have raised our family in Montecito for the last 20 years. We recently moved into a farmhouse nestled along a private wooded lane in Toro Canyon. I spent the last few months making it home. A big piece of our hearts will always be in Texas, though. We love Gruene and feel like we are not finished there. We are in the beginning stages of our next fun and exciting project, but it has to be unique and fresh; we don’t rinse and repeat. Stay tuned, and yes, Katie Kime wallpaper will be making another grand appearance. 

KK Team: Did you use peel and stick or traditional wallpaper?

HS- We used traditional wallpaper.

KK Team: Any other favorite Katie Kime prints? 

HS- All of Katie’s prints are to die for cute, but the Texas and California prints have my heart. With our daughter Lola Grace headed to design school at Pratt Institute next year, I might have to add the NYC print to my collection.