By Tessa Terry, Alchemy RV Renovations
I specialize in transforming small spaces into something unexpected—something that feels like home.
When I arrived in Bend, Oregon, it wasn’t just another stop on my national renovation tour. It was an opportunity to bring my full design experience to a truly unique project. With a background in the design industry and a portfolio that includes RVs, business interiors, homes, hotels, and more, I’ve worked in all kinds of environments. But this one, a beautiful horse trailer, stood out. It was a chance to blend function, luxury, and heart in one compact space.
My client, an experienced equestrian, lives in her trailer during horse shows. She travels with her horse, James Dean, and her wiener dog, Loretta. This trailer is more than a place to sleep; it’s her sanctuary on the road. She needed it to work for her lifestyle, but also to feel personal and comforting.
The trailer itself had great bones but no personality. Inside, it was a blank slate. She wasn’t looking for extravagance. She wanted something simple and meaningful—a soft place to land, a space that made her smile, and a reflection of the life she loves.
Every project I take on starts with a feeling. Not a style guide or Pinterest board, but an emotion. That’s what drives my work. I want to create spaces that change how people feel. In this case, the trailer needed to feel light and bright, joyful yet grounded.
We started by painting the ceiling in “First Light,” a soft pink that instantly warmed the space. The cabinets were refreshed with “Breath of Fresh Air” by Benjamin Moore, a gentle blue that brings a sense of calm. Gold-and-pink hardware, a durable vinyl backsplash, and even a mini chandelier were all carefully chosen to bring harmony and intention to the design.
Small Space, Big Challenge
Designing RVs and trailers is all about precision. Every inch counts. Every material, fixture, and finish needs to balance beauty, functionality, and weight. I often modify residential light fixtures to work in small spaces and hand-sew velvet curtains to ensure the perfect fit. Cleanability and durability are always a priority.
Nothing is arbitrary. Each element was selected to make her feel like this space truly belonged to her.
A Life in Motion
What made this project truly special wasn’t the color palette or custom features. It was the woman it was designed for. She’s a warm, kind person who radiates joy and cares deeply for her animals. She deserved a space that honored who she is.
The Reveal
We celebrated the finished project with a small gathering. It was a joyful day and a personal one for me. I had traveled more than 3,000 miles, stretched myself creatively, and poured my heart into every detail. Seeing her reaction made it all worthwhile. She loved it.
After the Dust Settled
The response since then has been overwhelming, especially from the equestrian community. I’ve heard from riders, trainers, and fellow travelers who dream of having a space like this. Many said the renovation gave them hope that a trailer could feel like a real home.
That’s what drives me. Whether a space is 400 square feet or 4,000, I want to help people create homes that reflect who they are. Good design should be accessible, and it should always bring a sense of belonging.
I believe our environment shapes our experience. When we live in chaos, we feel it. When we surround ourselves with beauty and intention, we grow. That’s the deeper purpose of this renovation—not just a beautiful trailer, but a reminder that everyone deserves joy, comfort, and a space that feels like home.
As for James Dean and Loretta? They’re living the good life. And their incredible human now has a space that travels with her heart.
Tessa Terry is the founder of Alchemy RV Renovations, a design studio specializing in refined, personalized interiors for small spaces. With a background in residential and commercial design, she blends function with quiet luxury. Currently on a nationwide renovation tour, Tessa brings hands-on craftsmanship and custom detail to every project. You can follow her work at @alchemyrvrenovations or Alchemyrvrenovations.com
