Akuna 3 Thredbo – Before + After Ski Lodge Renovation for Vacation Rental Success

Written By Donna Vercoe

I was thrilled to be asked to revamp Akuna 3, a beloved holiday home in Thredbo nestled in NSW’s Snowy Mountains. Serving both as a personal retreat and a vacation rental, it needed more than cosmetic updates—it needed a full transformation. From updating structural elements and replacing worn window frames, to reworking room layouts and selecting finishes made for mountain living, this project shows how intentional design can dramatically increase guest appeal and functionality.

Planning for Guests – Design Goals + Strategy

  • Prioritised durability: materials, hardware, cabinetry selected to withstand snow, wet boots, frequent guests.

  • Creating a warm alpine aesthetic: neutral tones, timber, texture, cozy textiles.

  • Functional layout changes with vacation renters in mind (storage, work/leisure zones, usability).

  • Ensuring comfort and compliance (electrical, safety, building code, heating).

Before: Akuna 3 Thredbo kitchen with aged cabinetry and layout issues
After: modern alpine kitchen design in Akuna 3 vacation rental Thredbo

Kitchen | Before + After

Renovation Process – What Changed (Before → After)

Kitchen

  • Removed the end column on the peninsula to open up space and improve flow.

  • Moved sink from under the window to the island — improving usability and views.

  • Introduced distinct functional zones: pantry, cooking, cleaning, coffee/tea station.

  • Upgraded storage: converting lower cabinets to deep drawers.

  • Induction cooktop, multi-function oven, relocated fridge to enhance work triangle and openness.

Before and after of the living room at a cozy mountain retreat, showcasing a transformed space with warm textures and updated furnishings.
Before and after of a fireplace featuring dry-stacked limestone stonework, with a desk and shelving incorporated into the design.

Living Area | Before + After

Living Area

  • Installed full-height fireplace (with the TV integrated) to anchor the living space and add warmth.

  • Created a work-and-leisure zone: built-in shelving, desk + reading corner.

  • Added decorative shelving for books, games etc., enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.

Before and after of a bathroom featuring white stacked subway tiles, a back-to-wall freestanding tub, a double vanity, and matching mirrors

Main Bathroom | Before + After

Bathrooms + Ensuite

  • Main bathroom layout mirrored for better usage of space.

  • Double vanity installed plus freestanding tub; streamlined fixtures and mirror placements.

  • Ensured tap & fixture placements are safe & practical (e.g. when bathing children).

  • Ensuite adjusted for space constraints: compact basin, smart door swing, optimised shower area.

Mezzanine upgrade in Akuna 3 with improved bed placement and sitting area

Mezzanine | Before + After

Mezzanine + Laundry

  • Mezzanine: re-positioned bed away from overhangs, created separate sitting / TV area, improved balustrade safety.

  • Laundry: reallocated appliances, added storage (tall broom cupboard), better layout for ease of use by guests.

Ensuite bathroom with green finger tiles, round light fixtures, and oak joinery accents.

Ensuite | Before + After

Modern laundry area with re-organised storage and fixtures in vacation home design

Laundry | Before + After

Results – A Lodge Transformed for Guests

  • Visually the transformation is dramatic: spaces feel open, light, and inviting.

  • The lodge is now much more usable: improved flow, better storage, functional zones that matter for guest comfort.

  • Every room upgrade contributes to guest satisfaction and strengthens its appeal as a vacation rental.

  • The renovations balance modern function with alpine charm: safety and style together.

Additional Posts:
Akuna 3 Thredbo - Ski Lodge Renovation
Akuna 3 Thredbo A Design Journey
Thredbo project featured on The Interiors Addict
Book your stay at Akuna 3 Thredbo here

Akuna 3 Thredbo - Contacts and Suppliers

Client: Akuna 3 Thredbo
Builder: SouthPac Builders
Joinery: Snowy Cabinets
Joinery Hardware: Momo Handles
Tiling: Meraki Tiling
Electrical: Main Range Electrical
Fireplace: Escea
Fireplace Stone: Dry stacked stone from Amber Tiles
Bathroom Supply: Reece
Shower Glass: Jindabyne Glass
Tile Supply: South East Tile and Bathroom Centre
Lighting: LightCo (kitchen and bathroom lights) and Beacon Lighting
Hardwood Flooring: Woodos
Carpet: Godfrey Hirst
Paint: Dulux

Looking to increase the charm, comfort, and bookings of your holiday home? Let’s talk. Contact Donna Vercoe Design for vacation-rental focused interior design and custom renovations.

Contact
Donna Vercoe

Sydney-based interior designer.

http://www.donnavercoe.com
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Akuna 3 Thredbo – Full Ski Lodge Renovation Designed for Vacation Rental Appeal