At Home: The Bawks Family

A Spanish-Inspired Dream Home

Katelyn and Matt Bawks traveled the world for years, dreaming of their someday home. Inspired by Spanish architecture, a form that reflects her heart and childhood, Katelyn pulled from a decade's worth of notes to incorporate the signature style of Central American design into their forever home.

Influenced by the warm, inviting homes of Costa Rica and Guatemala, Katelyn reminisced about her childhood summers in the mission field, envisioning a home that captured the magic of those memories.: “I wanted a house that echoed those feelings. I had visions of eating tamales with host families in Costa Rica, listening to a guitar playing, and the sounds of little kids’ laughter echoing through the hallways.” The home’s overall design is rooted in natural light and openness, with indoor-outdoor living a key priority.

Designed with Intention

Every inch of the house was purposefully designed. The U-shaped layout, full-length back patio, and split floor plan maximize flow and functionality. “So many homes have wasted space that can't be used on a daily basis,” Katelyn explains. “If there was a small alcove or corner, I gave it a lot of thought, and it has a purpose.”

The must-haves were clear: white stucco walls, a tiled roof, wooden beams, and clay-colored porcelain floors—a durable dupe for traditional Saltillo tile. Not only did Katelyn bring a keen design eye to the process, but a necessary practicality for their family home. The bedrooms, mudroom, and easy-garage-access pantry were all designed to meet her family's current and future needs.

Katelyn describes the design process as an adventure, having traveled all over California and once to Mexico to find the perfect pieces that would complete her dream home and match its style. “I spent countless hours online and reading magazines," says Katelyn. "I would find myself in a market in Mexico, with a basket or rug in my hand, and I could picture exactly where it would fit in the house.” In the past, Katelyn had decorated on a small scale, but hadn't yet undertaken something this grand.

Knowing that custom-built projects can easily exceed initial budgets, Katelyn was diligent in the details. She took the total dollar allowance and square foot price, and personally went to the vendors her builder recommended. “This method helped streamline the process,” she shares. “The best part was that I found it is possible to do without sacrificing quality and the look you want.”

Katelyn's favorite room? The surprisingly modest main bedroom. Rather than overbuild, she opted for cozy simplicity: a fireplace, an en suite with a sauna, and just enough space to truly relax.

A Legacy of Love and Light

Other thoughtful touches within the home include zoned HVAC to reduce energy use when the nest eventually empties, and a fully wheelchair-accessible, stair-free layout. The back patio cleverly features retractable screens to expand entertaining space.

Designing and building weren't without their challenges. With so many decisions made months before construction, flexibility was imperative. Katelyn advises anyone building a home to live by a simple rule: “Pivot. Give yourself grace, or you'll go crazy.” Katelyn's aunt, a seasoned interior designer, Katie Mansfield, provided guidance when things got tough.

Working alongside talented local professionals helped bring the vision to life: from custom furniture by David Trobough to elk antlers mounted by taxidermist John Cotta. Builder Tristen Kreider of Sierra View Construction and architect Aaron Zerlang turned Katelyn's vision into open-concept dreams.

Looking back, Katelyn wouldn't change a thing. “It was the most enjoyable, exciting process. I have no regrets. That feels impossible, but it's true.”

Now, Katelyn is passing her passion on to others, working as a design consultant with Sierra View Construction. “My husband reminds me this doesn't come easily to everyone. I really enjoy it—and as long as it works with my family, I hope to keep doing it.”

Far more than a house, this project is a story, a reflection of travels, traditions, and the faithfulness of God—it's the Bawks' forever home.