Photographer Alla Ponomareva and her husband Garrett had plenty of extra space on their 20-acres of land in Missoula, Montana; so, they decided to start a clever, creative, and one-of-a-kind guest house project.
Using plans from Derek “Deek” Diedricksen, which estimated a cost of $1,200, Alla and her husband used repurposed materials to create an adorable A-Frame guest house for just $700.


The 80-square-foot guest cabin is undeniably charming from the exterior. The gorgeous A-frame structure features a large deck that wraps around the entire cabin, large windows, solar panels, and a completely translucent wall.
During the warm, summer months, Alla’s guests can push up the see-through wall for an instantly expanded space that opens to the surrounding nature.


In addition to the removable wall expanding the 80-square-feet, it also provides a roof for an instant covered patio. Great for grabbing a chair and relaxing with a book, or even dining al fresco.
“When the wall is up, its a whole different experience. Luckily, Montana has almost no mosquitos to speak of in the summer time, so there’s no need for a mosquito net,” Alla says on her blog.


Inside, Alla and her husband wanted to make the small cabin really pop. They opted for a coral and mint color scheme.


“Be happy, enjoy the little things,” a sign reads above the window. It’s hard not to fall in love with all of the little details in this beautiful A-frame guest cottage. Upon entering, you immediately notice the abundance of natural light thanks to the translucent wall – making the small space feel less cramped
The two sofas on each side of the cabin can be used as two separate single beds.


Or, simply push the two small beds together to create a larger full bed.


From the angle above, you’ll notice how much height the A-frame design provides guests in the cabin. There is not only storage underneath the beds, but there are also plenty of built-in shelves on the far wall as well.
Although there isn’t a full kitchen in the guest quarters, there are a few functional necessities.


Alla and Garrett set up a large water jug which guests can use for cooking, washing small dishes, or brushing their teeth. There is also a Coleman portable burner so guests can warm up water for coffee or tea, it could also be used to cook simple, small meals.


Solar lights illuminate the hammock area in the evening where guests can relax and stargaze.


“If you haven’t seen the stars in Montana, then you haven’t truly seen the stars…” Alla says.
Some fun facts about this A-frame:
- It only took Alla and Garrett around 3 weeks to build.
- Design plan was created by Derek “Deek” Diedricksen.
- Can sleep two people comfortably, three if they’re in a sleeping bag on the floor.
- Guests can use the outdoor portable toilet and solar shower.
- Total cost was approximately $700 using mostly recycled and reused materials.
Learn more about Alla and Garrett’s adorable A-frame by visiting her website.
Please SHARE this with your friends and family.

