SEVEN SPRINGS SKI HOUSE
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The goals of this Laurel Highlands renovation were two-fold: first, it needed to function better as a retreat for the homeowners, who are avid snowboarders, hikers, and enjoyers of all things outdoorsy. Second, it needed to address the dated finishes that didn’t reflect the homeowners’ tastes. With a strong vision for the home’s aesthetic and careful attention to the homeowners’ functional needs, we were able to create an elevated, comfortable space that’s perfect for cozy weekends away.
The kitchen’s original layout featured a peninsula with seating for four, which was rarely used and took up valuable storage space. We reimagined the peninsula’s purpose, replacing the seating area with cabinetry. Previously, a row of hard-to-reach baskets filled the awkward, empty space above standard-size stock cabinets on the range wall. Now, beautifully crafted custom cabinetry extends to the ceiling. The rich, dark stain on the rustic alder wood cabinets pairs perfectly with the modern, matte black herringbone tile. The herringbone tile is repeated in the storage nook that was created by borrowing space from the primary bedroom’s unnecessarily deep closet. By recessing shelving into the wall, we gave the homeowners additional storage for frequently reached-for items. The stunning granite countertops were chosen for their resemblance to an aerial view of snow-covered mountain peaks.
The home’s dining area needed to serve multiple purposes but didn’t meet the homeowner’s needs well. Swapping existing furniture and lighting with more functional replacements enhanced the space’s modern mountain vibe. The dining area also encompasses one of the home’s most unique features – the counter-height seating area that serves as the perfect spot to watch a game. The railing that separated the sunken living room from the dining area was replaced by a custom “bar top”, complete with beautiful decorative walnut spindles that support the same granite countertop that was used in the kitchen.
In the living room, crumbling areas of mortar and stone on the home’s original fireplace were removed and replaced. A new gas insert was installed, creating a modern but cozy feel. By installing raw white oak planks in the living area that extend into the dining space, we transformed an otherwise unremarkable wall into a cohesive architectural feature, again pairing rustic with modern elements.
The primary bedroom and bathroom were also given lots of attention. Before, the primary bathroom sink was separate from the toilet and shower area, a dated feature that needed to be reworked. We reconfigured the bathroom by adding a wall to separate the former sink area from the bedroom, and removed the existing door that enclosed the toilet and shower. Now, the entire bathroom is cohesive and separate from the bedroom. The terrazzo tile floor, clean and classic shower tile, rustic wood vanity and granite countertops come together to create a luxurious space that embodies the same aesthetic as the rest of the home.
This modern mountain home now serves as a warm, inviting retreat that reflects the clients’ personal style while meeting the functional needs of a home designed around their active outdoor lifestyle.
