Forest Retreat was one of the first Abode Homes — before our shift into new construction, before ground-up builds and streamlined specs. It was a remodel that told us exactly who we were becoming.

We purchased the home in 2020, in a very different real estate market. Nestled on just over an acre, the house sat three minutes from downtown Weaverville and only twelve minutes to downtown Asheville — yet it backed up to over 40 acres of protected bird sanctuary land.

Perched high in the trees, the house felt like a bird’s nest in the forest, with a small brook running just below and no visible neighbors in sight during the summer. It truly was a sanctuary — a forest retreat in every sense.

The original structure, built in the early 2000s, was beautifully maintained but had never been updated.

Nearly every surface was wrapped in warm wood paneling. There was love in the bones, but the space was craving new life — and modern function.

We took on a full-scale transformation, including:

Interior and exterior paint throughout

New roof, windows, and HVAC system

All new light fixtures, door hardware, and cabinet hardware

New exterior doors and garage doors

Custom closet systems installed throughout the home

Fully reimagined kitchen — new cabinetry, countertops, appliances, and tile

All bathrooms fully renovated — new tile, vanities, fixtures, and lighting

New stair design with updated railings

Two-bedroom addition to balance the converted walk-in closet

Expanded primary suite with a custom walk-in closet, laundry, and vanity area

Hot tub installation for indoor-outdoor relaxation

Rock climbing wall in the shed — a playful touch for kids and family fun

Preservation of the original stone fireplace — the grounding heart of the home

What made this project so pivotal was how many prospective buyers wanted to purchase it fully furnished.

That level of interest confirmed what we had already begun to sense: people are longing for homes that are not just designed — but truly ready to live in. Forest Retreat helped shape our Abode Homes turnkey model, offering a living experience that is as thoughtful as it is beautiful.

The home sold quickly and left a lasting imprint on our brand — a reminder of how much magic lives in transformation.

To explore the surrounding town, visit our Spotlight on Weaverville neighborhood guide.