STERLING VIEW 

Stowe ski houses began like this: comfortable, durable, roomy retreats close to the action, where keen powderhounds pile in on Friday, stash their skis in the mudroom locker, unload groceries in the compact galley kitchen, light the fires, divvy up the dozen single beds and pull back the curtains to reveal a truly spectacular treehouse view of Spruce Peak and Mount Mansfield, only minutes down a winding private road.

The gang won’t be cramped; an open living space accommodates a banquet table on one side, a TV/conversation nook at the other. Built-in dresser drawers and shelves maximize storage while the lower floor bed-living room with its own fireplace offers a quiet refuge.
No lines for the bathroom, either; there are four.

Furnishings are included in this informal retreat – a trestle table, some Vermont antiques, interesting lamps enlivened by retro upholstered pieces in 60s hues now making a comeback.

But if tub chairs, paneled walls and beamed ceilings aren’t your zone, this 2,000 square foot house with deck and separate garage would update easily. Given the priceless location and view, anything’s possible.

Building style: Chalet