History of Titus House

A Railroad Engineer's Legacy

The Titus House holds a special place in Truckee's history. It was designed by architect Will Bliss, making it the only architecturally designed home in Brickelltown. Built by Frank Titus, Sr.—an engineer on the narrow-gauge railroad that transported lumber from Lake Tahoe to Truckee—the house connects directly to the region's industrial heritage.

As a symbol of Truckee's industrial origins, the Titus House stands as a testament to the railroad's impact on the town's growth—a reminder of the area's architectural heritage and the important figures like the Titus family who contributed to the growth of Truckee during the 19th century.

Our Commitment

"Look back to learn how to look forward." We honor this history by preserving what makes Titus House special while giving it new purpose for the next century.

Titus House today — 10382 Donner Pass Road, Brickelltown

History of the Area

From Wagon Trails to Railroad

Your Truckee Team

Neighbors Building for Neighbors

This project is led by people who call Truckee home—who understand what makes this community special and are committed to its long-term vitality.

Trevor Cornwell

Founder & CEO, Guesthouse

Founder of Guesthouse, creating a new model of hospitality that brings hotel-quality service to group travel. Previously founded Skyjet (acquired by Bombardier).

Truckee homeowner since 2013. Daughter learned to ski here at age 3. Acquired land at 10403 High Street in 2017.

Doug Appleton

General Partner, Guesthouse

25+ years as corporate lawyer and executive across real estate development, health technology, and startups. Guides companies from formation through growth and exit.

Moved to Truckee full-time in 2020. Leads investment and manages planning & permitting with the Town.

Joe Ward

Architect, Joseph Ward Architecture

Owner of Joseph Ward Architecture, Inc. for 25+ years. Master of Architecture from University of Colorado Denver. Specializes in mountain residential and hospitality design.

Recent projects include work with GLA Morris on Donner Lake.

Project Context

The Guesthouse Pantry

Historic Resource

Category B (Contributing)

Built

c. 1910–1911

Character Area

Brickelltown

What We're Adding

A Neighborhood Gathering Place

Retail café & bakery — house-made pastries, Nordic-inspired breads, prepared foods
Commercial kitchen — supporting hospitality operations for Guesthouse guests
Type 20 beer & wine license — complementing food service

Hours: 8 AM – 6 PM, Monday – Saturday

The Vision

The Pantry opens Guesthouse's hospitality to the entire town — transforming Titus House from a private office into a public amenity that serves both visitors and neighbors.

Interior vision by Michael Hsu Office of Architecture

Preservation Approach

Honoring Titus House

Every exterior modification has been designed to preserve and enhance the historic character of this 115-year-old Gambrel Crosswing structure.

✓ Traditional Materials

Board & batten wood siding, wood deck and railings — consistent with Brickelltown character guidelines.

✓ Historic Color Palette

Benjamin Moore "Hale Navy" (HC-154) — a classic maritime navy from the Historical Colors collection.

✓ Modest Deck Expansion

146 SF front deck addition creates welcoming entry while maintaining building proportions.

✓ Screened Utilities

Hood vents, electrical switchgear, and trash enclosure screened from public view.

Staff Recommendation

Town staff recommends approval, finding it consistent with the Historic Design Guidelines, 2040 General Plan, and Downtown Truckee Plan.

Design Pillars by Michael Hsu Office of Architecture

Our Request

Thank You for Your Stewardship

We are grateful for the Commission's thoughtful stewardship of Truckee's historic character. We respectfully request approval of the proposed exterior modifications to Titus House, enabling us to open the Guesthouse Pantry and share our hospitality with the Truckee community.

Application 2025-0000096/HDR-ZC

Historic Design Review & Zoning Clearance
10382 Donner Pass Road, Truckee

Summary of Modifications

146 SF front deck expansion with wood railings
Exterior repainting — Benjamin Moore "Hale Navy" (HC-154)
Screened mechanical equipment (HVAC, hood vents)
Electrical switchgear enclosure
Enclosed trash area

10382 Donner Pass Road, Truckee

guesthousecompany.com