In the picturesque expanse of upstate New York, nestled among rolling hills and dense woods, lies a remarkable venture that has transformed not just land but also the tourism landscape of the region. This is the story of Chris Broomfield, an innovative builder and entrepreneur whose vision birthed Evergreen Cabins. Over the past three decades, Chris has harnessed the power of creativity, family inspiration, and a strategic business model to carve out a niche in the booming short-term rental market.
The Genesis of an Idea
When asked where he sources his imagination and inspiration, Chris’s answer is simple and heartfelt: “My family and my kids.” This intrinsic motivation fuels his passion and creativity, evident in the unique designs of his cabins. One such design was inspired by a childhood drawing of a tent house created by his daughter, which guided him toward the classic architecture of an A-frame cabin. This iconic shape, characterized by a steep roofline resembling an uppercase letter ‘A’, is both aesthetically appealing and functional, capable of supporting substantial window areas that bathe the interior in natural light.
With 35 years of construction experience and nearly a thousand homes built, Chris’s foray into the hospitality sector was anything but accidental. In 2015, he stumbled upon an ideal piece of property priced at a mere $27,000. The location shook him to his core—close to a lake, surrounded by lush woods, and reminiscent of his upbringing. This site, dubbed Evergreen, felt like home to him, and from its potential, Chris envisioned a thriving Airbnb business. The site was not only a personal investment but also a chance to create beloved family memories for future guests.
Building Dreams and Overcoming Challenges
The journey from concept to creation was fraught with challenges. Armed only with a napkin sketch and his unwavering determination, Chris began construction on his first cabin during the summer after purchasing the land. The A-frame cabin took about three years to complete, costing approximately $90,000. All of Chris’s profits from his construction business went into this project, reflecting both his commitment and the level of sacrifice involved. Climbing the learning curve without modern tools, he often encountered laborious manual processes, traveling numerous hours every weekend from Connecticut to oversee various stages of construction.
Yet, each setback became an opportunity for growth. Recalling the difficulties of building without modern conveniences, Chris adapted in real-time, crafting each cabin according to the ideas forming vividly in his mind about how the final structure should feel and function. The construction itself was a labor of love, a blend of artistry and practicality, which is evident to this day in the layered designs of the cabins.
Reaping Rewards through Experience
Once completed, the A-frame cabin’s success sent ripples through the rental market. Encouraged by the overwhelmingly positive feedback from guests, Chris quickly recognized the model’s potential and decided to push forward. His next project, the treehouse cabin, was achieved within a tighter timeframe of just 13 weeks, costing around $175,000. Chris prioritized creating spaces that not only offered comfortable lodging but also immersive experiences that resonate with guests, particularly young families looking to forge memories together.
The design of his Birch Falls cabin followed suit, costing approximately $160,000 and epitomizing Chris’s commitment to creating an experiential journey rather than merely a place to sleep. This cabin features an indoor waterfall, giving guests a multisensory experience while serving as a chic backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation. The indoor waterfall is not merely a decoration; at 18 feet long and 12 feet tall, it adds serenity, evoking the sense of being enveloped by nature while enjoying modern comforts.
As the Evergreen Cabins began to flourish, Chris capitalized on his experiences to refine operations. The price points began at an humble $50 to $60 per night, quickly escalating to a range of $380 to $700 per night, adjusting dynamically to market demands. With over $2.1 million in revenue generated since he opened his first cabin in 2018, it’s clear that Chris’s approach was not just a hit; it was a revelation. He has now officially transitioned away from contracting, dedicating himself fully to Evergreen’s success and its ongoing development trajectory.
The Human Touch: Creating Lasting Memories
Reading guest feedback serves as a nectar for Chris’s spirit and business ethos. One guest wrote, “I love this place. It was so peaceful. The house is stunning, and we had a great weekend.” These messages remind him that he is facilitating experiences that are cherished for a lifetime. Chris’s aim was never simply to build cabins but to establish spaces where families can bond in the embrace of nature. The sound of waterfalls, stunning views, and the warm radiance of heated floors contribute to a holistic atmosphere designed for relaxation and connection.
His commitment to creating not just another vacation rental, but rather an emotional haven for visitors, distinguishes Evergreen in a saturated market. Social media showcases guests enjoying sunlit mornings and starlit nights—moments that Chris hopes to continuously multiply for others, all while preparing the legacy he envisions passing down to his children.
Forward-thinking Operations and Sustainable Growth
With a strong operational framework in place, Chris maintains oversight of his properties through a structure of checklists and a dedicated team managing day-to-day functions. Their daily tasks range from property maintenance to laundry services, allowing Chris to focus on future designs, enhancing the Evergreen brand further, and ensuring a high standard of service that keeps guests returning.
The defining characteristic of his operation lies in its adaptability and guest-centric philosophy. Chris understands the nuances of his clientele—young professionals and families eager for memorable experiences—and tailors offerings to meet their desires, blending luxury and nature in perfect harmony. He holds steadfast belief in the necessity of evolving alongside market trends and guest expectations.
Evergreen Cabins is not merely a financial endeavor for Chris; it embodies a vision and legacy. Drawing on tenacity, creativity, and the cherished value of family, Chris Broomfield showcases how passion, ingenuity, and commitment can foster success that not only benefits the individual but enriches the community and creates treasured memories for countless families. This journey is just the beginning, as Chris continues to forge new paths for Evergreen Cabins, guided by inspiration while empowering future generations. The legacy he’s building is destined to inspire not just his children, but also every guest who experiences the enchanting beauty of his creations.
