Sunriver Vacation Home Remodel: Transforming A 1970s Home Into A Modern Retreat

When we were first contacted for this 1970s Sunriver vacation home remodel the client’s main goals for their remodel were to create a more functional layout and contemporize their space. The home was a typical seventies era Sunriver home that was stuck in the past with features and a layout that didn’t meet modern needs. The kitchen lacked functionality, the primary suite wasted valuable space, and several areas throughout the home simply didn’t fit modern living.

Their goal was clear: create a more functional, updated vacation home while still preserving the relaxed character and charm that makes Sunriver so special. What started as a kitchen and primary suite remodel eventually evolved into a multi-phase whole home transformation. 

Sunriver Vacation Home Remodel Phase One: Reimagining the Main Living Spaces 

For the initial home remodel, we partnered with Martha Murray on the design of the home. We took a small, outdated kitchen and made it much larger and more usable with a modern layout, additional storage space, and updated appliances. 

In the primary suite, we redesigned the bathroom for a better layout and upgraded from a shower tub combination to a standalone tub and separate glass shower. We also added luxury bathroom remodel features like layered lighting and customized tile. 

We also upgraded the closet in the primary suite and altogether created a much more functional and comfortable space to enjoy when vacationing in Sunriver. 

One of the goals during the remodel was modernizing the home without stripping away its original character. 

In the main living area, we redesigned the space to better align with the home’s existing architectural elements, including the exposed ceiling beams that give a subtle nod to Sunriver’s classic mid-century modern influence. 

We also enhanced the laundry room in the lower level, expanding the space by reclaiming square footage from an oversized coat closet that no longer served a practical purpose. To make the vacation home even more family-friendly, we also added a game room - creating another gathering space perfect for entertaining guests and spending time together after long days enjoying Central Oregon. 

Challenges During This Sunriver Vacation Home Remodel

As with many older Sunriver homes, once construction began, we uncovered hidden water damage caused by leaking windows. 

To properly address the problem, we completely resided and rewindowed the affected portions of the home to remove the rot and ensure this wouldn’t cause future issues. The original deck had also seen damage from the elements and environment over the years and it needed to be replaced. We were able to incorporate the new deck installation during this phase of the remodel work as well.

By handling these issues during the renovation, the homeowners were left with a home that was not only more beautiful but also structurally sound and ready for many more years of use. 

Sunriver Vacation Home Remodel Phase 2: Garage Updates

After completing the original remodel of this Sunriver vacation home, these clients contacted us again at a later date to inquire about updates to their garage.

For this second phase, we completely redid the garage to bring it in line with the feel of the rest of the house and make it more functional. This included adding built in storage space and an epoxy coating on the floor for a more appealing look and increased durability of the space. 

Sunriver Vacation Home Remodel Phase 3: Creating Multiple En-Suites

A few years later, we had the opportunity to work with these clients again. This time on an addition and remodel for their Sunriver vacation home. As their family had changed and grown, they were looking to create a more comfortable space when the whole family, now including adult children and their families, gathered in Sunriver. 

To do so, they wanted to create an en-suite for both of the existing bedrooms on the lower level. This required more space to accommodate, so while remodeling we also helped with a home addition to create the experience they wanted for their guests and family members. 

Sunriver Vacation Home Remodel Before & After: Initial Home Remodel

Before the remodel:

After the remodel:

A Long-Term Remodeling Relationship

One of the most rewarding parts of this project was the opportunity to continue working with these homeowners across multiple phases over several years.

Instead of moving away from a home they loved, they chose to invest in transforming it into a space that better supported their lifestyle, family, and future.

That’s the power of thoughtful remodeling.

Remodel Your Sunriver Vacation Home

Whether you’d like to modernize your Sunriver vacation home, create a more usable layout for today’s standards, or customize your space, we’d love to talk with you about how a home remodel can help you achieve your goals. Contact us today for a free consultation or learn more about our work as a remodel contractor serving Sunriver, Bend, and Central Oregon.