A MODERN RETREAT IN THE POCONO MOUNTAINS
Transforming a Property into an Ideal Vacation Getaway
Pocono, PA

Overview:
Nestled in the heart of the stunning Pocono Mountains, a discerning investor and multi-property owner saw an incredible opportunity to turn a property into a beautiful vacation rental—a place that would offer guests a serene, modern retreat amidst nature’s splendor. With a clear vision in mind, the goal was simple: craft a getaway that combined modern amenities with the natural beauty of the mountains, creating the perfect destination for families, groups, or anyone looking to escape, unwind, and make lasting memories.
The renovation turned an functional, but dated home into a breathtaking rental property designed for both comfort and style, with a strong emphasis on the experience—providing guests with everything they would need for an unforgettable stay. From deluxe outdoor amenities to beautifully curated interiors, every detail was thoughtfully crafted to ensure the property stood out in the competitive vacation rental market.
Right: Reinforced structural rafter ties are visible in the main living/dining space, along with the newly installed, energy efficient windows and skylights. These elements ensure that the space remains a comfortable gathering spot for years to come.

The Client's Vision:
From the start, the focus was on designing a vacation rental that would feel like a true home-away-from-home, but with the added comfort of contemporary style. The existing layout was modified to provide a spacious and open flow, ideal for groups or families who wanted to gather together without feeling cramped. The design needed to celebrate the surrounding landscape while offering the comforts of modern living, with ample space for relaxation and entertainment.
The vision also included thoughtful amenities that would elevate the guest experience, such as a sauna, cold plunge, and fire pit area—perfect for unwinding after a day of outdoor adventure. They aimed to provide a place where groups could reconnect, relax, and have everything they needed for a comfortable and memorable stay.
Left: Outdoor amenities that seamlessly blend into the landscaping provide perfect transitional spaces that foster a strong indoor and outdoor connection to the environment.

The Design:
The design concept for the property blended modern elegance with rustic charm, creating an environment that felt cozy and welcoming– combining sleek, contemporary elements with the natural beauty of wood, stone, and metal. The design focused on spacious, open areas that would accommodate large groups comfortably, with flexible spaces that could easily adapt to different needs.
The interiors featured wide-plank hickory flooring throughout, adding warmth and a sense of coziness to the entire home. Metal stair railings were used to enhance the modern aesthetic, providing a striking visual contrast to the natural finishes. The gourmet kitchen was a central focal point, complete with shiplap accent walls, floating live-edge wood shelves, and a spacious island. With top-of-the-line appliances—including a freestanding induction range, quartz backsplashes, and a porcelain farm sink—it was designed to be both functional and visually stunning, making it ideal for guests who enjoy cooking or entertaining.
One of the standout features of the renovation was the seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. A wrap-around patio and tiered terraces created the perfect setting for outdoor dining and relaxation. A custom-built fire pit, a cold plunge, and a barrel sauna made the backyard feel like a private wellness retreat, ideal for guests looking to unwind after hiking, skiing, or simply enjoying the mountain air.
Right: No matter how many great spaces you create in a home, people tend to gravitate to the kitchen. An efficient layout, white shiplap walls, live edge floating shelves and striking blue cabinetry with brushed brass accents set this kitchen apart as a perfect place for entertainment.

FLOOR PLANS

Design Challenges and Solutions:
Transforming the property into a vacation rental came with a few design challenges. One of the primary goals was to maximize space without sacrificing comfort, and the team had to carefully plan how to convert underused areas into functional, stylish rooms. For example, the basement was completely reimagined as a game room, providing entertainment for guests of all ages.
Material delays were a challenge, but the team’s proactive approach allowed them to source quality alternatives quickly and adjust the schedule as needed. As an older existing home, there was additional work required which involved reinforcing the existing structure to support new features. Input from structural engineers was sought to ensure the property was built to last.
Another challenge was converting the existing sunroom into an extension of the primary bedroom. The design had to maintain the flow of and natural light, while also ensuring privacy and comfort for guests.
The areas around the property's foundation also needed to be reworked to support new outdoor features like tiered terraces and stone retaining walls, which were essential for the outdoor living areas and ensure that proper rainwater drainage was maintained.
Left: A newly finished basement serves as a game-room and additional gathering space allowing this property to accommodate large family gatherings.

The Building Process:
The renovation took about seven months to complete, with some unavoidable delays due to the custom aspects of the project. High-end materials, including custom cabinetry and stone veneer, took longer to arrive, but the team worked proactively to prepare and schedule in order to keep the project on track.
Despite the challenges, the team adapted quickly, ensuring that every part of the project aligned with the vision for the vacation rental. The result was a stunning, high-end property that was not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable and functional for year-round rental use.
Right: This curb appeal of this renovated house is only a small preview of what it has to offer on the inside. It features four bedrooms, two baths and multiple gathering spaces that are designed to stand out from the competition of prospective short-term rentals.
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The Result:
When the renovation was complete, the property was transformed into an amazing vacation rental that met the owners’ high expectations. Every aspect of the home, from the high-end finishes to the seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, was designed to provide guests with an exceptional experience.
The outdoor spaces became a major draw for visitors, with tiered stone terraces, a fire pit area, and wellness features that make the property stand out from competition. Whether guests were enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, soaking in the sauna, or simply taking in the mountain views from the patio, the property offered a range of spaces to unwind and connect with nature.
Inside, the open-concept living spaces were perfect for large groups, with ample room to gather, cook, and relax together. The game room provided additional entertainment for families, while the spacious kitchen and living areas offered all the amenities needed for a stress-free stay.
The property’s design and high-end features made it an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the Pocono Mountains in comfort. Whether guests were seeking a winter getaway with skiing and snowboarding, a summer retreat for hiking and kayaking, or a relaxing escape in between, the property offered everything they could need.
Clients Reaction:
Throughout the entire process, the team maintained clear and consistent communication, guiding the project from initial design to final touches. The transformation exceeded expectations, perfectly capturing the vision for a vacation home that would fit seamlessly into their portfolio of properties. The client was thrilled with the outcome, knowing it would provide an ideal retreat for guests while aligning with their overall goals for the property.
