Before and After: A Reimagined Mountain Retreat

Every home deserves a second chance. When Dezirae Bruni and Jessica Rae Sommer of Maverick Design came across a 1996 semi-custom log cabin, they knew the home had a heart of gold. While the interior spoke to an earlier era, the main structure of the cabin remained timeless. “A true diamond in the rough,” says Sommer. Maverick Design partnered with Wedgewood Homes to transform the dated lodge into a modern mountain retreat worthy of its Park City backdrop. 

Without a current homeowner, the design and development team had to reimagine an updated space for the typical Park City buyer. “Our mission was to deliver a restorative retreat with improved finishes and flow, while celebrating the existing features of the home that are perfect for families and entertaining,” Bruni says. Modernizing the outdated cabin was no easy task; the segmented rooms and weathered systems required a complete overhaul.

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The original kitchen was cramped and dysfunctional compared to the overall cabin’s size. In order to elevate the room, the design team relocated and expanded the kitchen into an adjacent space. Now, custom white oak millwork and dual islands bring the kitchen into modern times. Large windows showcase the expansive mountain views and oversized statement pendants from Rejuvenation anchor the space.

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Before, an enclosed log-lined hallway led to the dark, undersized dining room. To brighten the space, the team peeled back the entryway and infused the room with a light color palette. A clever floor to ceiling wine display doubles as a structural post. “This kept the space open and inviting, while also creating a beautiful modern display,” Sommer explains.

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An imposing stone fireplace once anchored the original great room. The 90s era staircase featured worn mountain finishes and outdated log railings. The new staircase maintains a similar shape, but gains an airy appearance with cable railing details and oak tread. The team also removed the original floor-to-ceiling fireplace in favor of an open floor plan. “Being a mountainside retreat, we decided to bring in a dramatic, statement floor-to-ceiling feature wall on the opposite side of the living room.” says Bruni. A bespoke chandelier anchors the room, and a neutral palette gives the home an updated feel.

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Heavy design elements and mixed wood details dated the previous primary bath. A curved stone top paired with smoked mirrors darkened the original room. “We knew immediately this space could be enhanced,” says the Sommer. Now, the bath features contrasting textures with medallion-tiled floors and an oak vanity. To add function and flair, the team included a wet room to house the free-standing tub and multiple shower heads. 

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The original cave-like basement featured heavy pine accents and a river rock fireplace. Now, the basement offers a warm welcome with multiple entertainment options. Statement finishes and natural textures carry the room to the present-day while remaining timeless. Maverick Design also converted the previously unused locker room into an appealing guest bath and fitness studio.

A Modern Mountain Retreat

The reimagined home is packed to the brim with gorgeous spaces both aesthetically pleasing and functional for everyday living. Explore more of the alpine dwelling in the photos below. 

The reimagined living area features an open floor plan and an inviting dining nook. Panoramic windows offer stunning mountain vistas and fill the home with light.

“We expanded the primary suite into a previously useless narrow loft space, adding function in the larger bedroom,” Bruni says.

The home’s exterior features timeless stone work, an exaggerated entryway and a spacious rear deck.

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All photos by Jon Woodbury

Explore more inspiring Before and Afters here.