A long-time summer destination of choice, the rolling hills, farms and woodlands of the Berkshires in Massachusetts has received a new riverfront retreat, inspired by the classic American motor lodge that’s open year-round.
Called Tourists, the project is a collaboration between a number of creative partners who came together with one vision: to create a place that embodies the region’s wild, arty spirit. The design team, led by one of the partners, Ben Svenson - from development company Broder - have created 48 rooms with lofty ceilings, cosy built-in king beds and large window seats allow the outside to roll in.
The central ranch house is from an existing building that dates back to 1962 and is filled with leather couches and Scandi-style chairs that centre around a large, warming fireplace. Here, guests can enjoy a coffee or beer or snuggle up on one of the couches on a lazy afternoon.
Outside, the surrounding grounds are the work of landscape architecture firm Reed Hilderbrand. With the intention of creating an immersive experience with nature, there is a heated saltwater swimming pool, a deck overlooking the Hoosic River a courtyard with native plants and a suspension footbridge that leads to a network of trails, glens and meadows.
Coming soon will be a restaurant helmed by James Beard Award-winning chef Cortney Burns. Here, expect a robust menu of seasonal dishes, savoury snacks and all-day picnics using locally foraged ingredients.
