There are many stories entwined in this space – the story of the owners and how they decided to go on the Airbnb venture, the story of how I, as their property manager, designer, and a friend came into the picture, and most importantly the story of the house, the property, and all that we discovered about this special place as we began to dig in. My hunch is the latter story is the one the people want to hear, so here we go!
The story of the Bugg Haus – Hudson Valley's newest Airbnb listing and the perfect place for people who love nature – by Meredith Pace, Director of Design and Property Management at the Bugg Haus – Photography by Alluvion Media
Upon seeing this property from photos and walkthroughs we knew it was exactly what we were looking for for our first property. Gorgeous pool and yard with plenty of space to get creative when curating the perfect guest experience. Unique maze-like layout with clusters of bedrooms and bathrooms spread throughout to accommodate multiple groups or families comfortably. Serene landscape with stunning mountain views, towering trees, and lovely gardens. It was a jackpot, merely from what met the eye.
As with any good story, there were some bumpy roads once we acquired the property. Appliances that needed replacing, last-minute air conditioners that needed repair, you know the drill. The “what did we get ourselves into moments” transpired, but we weathered the storm of new homeownership trials and came out on the other side. As we continued to go to the property, speak with the neighbors, begin the design process, and started think about how we wanted to create this space, that’s when the magic happened.
We were incredibly lucky to have neighbors that shared the story of this house and the surrounding property with us. They had family ties to the home and had a lot of knowledge of how the property transformed over the years. From learning how the street was named, to sharing stories of the couple that had resided at the property for many many years and became beloved neighbors. This German couple added an addition, to the pool, the gardens (butterfly, vegetable, herbs, and flower), a fruit orchard, and even a windmill out in the backfield (no longer there, unfortunately). After spending more time at the property and hearing these stories, the gears started turning for our vision of how we wanted this space to feel, look, and what those that stayed could experience.
It was clear from the get-go, that this property was a space meant to be shared. A space to come together with friends, families, or coworkers – to relax and rejuvenate, celebrate, or get inspired. While also thinking about paying homage to the history, the previous owners, and the undeniable quirks and surrounding nature of the home. That’s where the theme came to life for us. The property is funky and far from cookie-cutter. It is surrounded by butterfly bushes and nature of all forms. But we wanted to get a little weirder than just the classic “nature cottage in the woods” vibe. And what’s weirder than bugs and mushrooms? It fit our vision perfectly – snails, beetles, butterflies, bees, moss, fungi – you name it, we have it. From gorgeous still-life photography to taxidermy insects, to a custom bug mural on the back shed – the theme is brought to life with each little detail added with intentional thought and care.
We also wanted the space to work for all ages and inspire guests to utilize all nooks and crannies of the house – both inside and out. We envisioned families making fresh popcorn with our popcorn maker, cozying up with blankets, and watching a movie with our outdoor projector under the stars while others enjoy a beverage on the front porch with a view of the mountains. Some folks enjoy the hot tub while others roast marshmallows by the fire. Some might want to complete the mushroom puzzle in the foyer while others want to take the kids' bug hunting or pose next to our custom bug mural for a picture. The options are vast for how each set of guests chooses to spend their getaway, but the end goal is for everyone to walk away with their own unique memories.
We welcome you to the Bugg Haus. A playful and cozy getaway nestled in the heart of the Catskills. We hope when you visit you take time to find the little details that make this place unique, enjoy and embrace the surrounding nature and views from all angles of the home, and fill up your cup with quality time, inspiration, and rejuvenation.
