Red Crown Lodge

Design Development & Furnishings | Arbor Vitae, WI

Nestled in the North Woods of Wisconsin, this project speaks to our roots. Red Crown Lodge is a historic lodge in Arbor Vitae, Wisconsin, just north of Minocqua. The property includes four lodges, the cottages, and the quarters, all thoughtfully positioned to take in panoramic views of Trout Lake. Fifty spacious, comfortable guest rooms await, each with private baths and the relaxed North Woods character that defines the Red Crown experience. The lodge caters to corporate retreats, weddings, and special events, offering a setting that feels both historic and welcoming. With its expansive grounds, multiple lodging options, and the natural beauty of northern Wisconsin, it provides an ideal backdrop for gatherings of all kinds. 

The Gazebo

We have had the pleasure of working on many buildings at Red Crown Lodge, with the gazebo serving as our introduction to the property. The team’s goal from the beginning was to make it feel original to the site. The gazebo, designed by C&S Architecture, is the crown jewel of the Red Crown campus and the perfect gathering space.  

Our team was on-site from the ground up, consulting on many details including fireplace dimensions, wood storage, and finish materials. The custom light fixtures in this space were designed for the massive scale of the building, and we were present for stain sample matching and even the first brush on the raw logs. We consulted on wood applications, provided furnishings, and created custom cabinet designs for the bar and back‑bar niches. We worked alongside local craftsmen to oversee the design and installation of the custom Adirondack furnishings featuring the signature Red Crown logo. Accessories, rugs, accents, and upholstered furnishings in leather, textured materials, and classic Ralph Lauren fabrics were selected and procured by our team, ensuring every detail aligned with the character and history of the lodge. 

Main Lodge

The main lodge renovation marked the celebration of the one-hundred-year anniversary of the Lodge, with the dining room becoming the centerpiece of the transformation. The entire space was reimagined by our team, including a lifted tray ceiling and tamarack logs over tongue and groove Douglas Fir. We designed the ceiling pattern intentionally to bring the history of the Main Lodge living room into the dining room for a seamless, cohesive look. The custom cabinets, stunning in an Adirondack style, were designed to appear as though they had been part of the lodge for generations. We created a custom carved application and then set out to find the right craftsman to bring it to life. We were fortunate to find a local artisan in Mercer, Wisconsin, just one town over, who carved the primitive pinecones, acorns, and the Red Crown logo into the accents. The result is an authentic, handcrafted detail that honors the property’s legacy. We just love how it turned out. 

The great room carries the same spirit of warmth found throughout the lodge, with finishes and furnishings selected to honor its century‑old character. The custom furnishings and rugs were an essential layer in the renovation process and create a room that feels as though you could sit by the fire with old friends for hours. The Adirondack custom game table and armoire continue the design intent established throughout the lodge, adding both function and authenticity to the space. The touches of red throughout are a classic Red Crown nod. 

Our team remains involved on an as-needed basis for finish selections and updates, helping preserve the character of the lodge while supporting its ongoing evolution. 

Rustic lodge interior featuring a high wooden ceiling, cozy seating, and a central dining area with warm lighting.
Cozy log cabin interior featuring leather armchairs, a wooden table, and large windows overlooking a serene outdoor view.
Rustic lodge interior featuring log walls, high wooden ceilings, cozy seating, and a central dining area with warm lighting.
Rustic bar with leather stools, wooden beams, and a display of spirits in a cozy, lodge-style interior.
Wooden beams radiate from a central lantern, highlighting a rustic ceiling with warm tones and natural textures.
Rustic bar with wooden beams, leather stools, and a display of liquor bottles in a cozy, cabin-like setting.
Elegant wooden bar with illuminated shelves displaying various liquor bottles and a prominent beer tap in the center.
Rustic wooden bar with shelves displaying various bottles, a mirror, and a wine rack, creating a cozy atmosphere.
Vintage gas pump with a red crown light, surrounded by wooden logs and a price board displaying gas and tax rates.
Cozy log cabin interior featuring a stone fireplace, antler mount, and plush seating with warm lighting.
Intricately carved wooden wall featuring the words "Red Crown Lodge," with two lit candles in the foreground.
Cozy living room with red leather chairs, a stone fireplace, and rustic decor, illuminated by warm lighting.
Cozy living room featuring stone walls, wooden beams, leather furniture, and a warm fireplace, accented by decorative rugs.
Cozy rustic living room featuring red leather chairs, a stone fireplace, and wooden beams, illuminated by a chandelier.
Cozy cabin nestled among tall trees, softly illuminated at dusk, with a winding path leading to its welcoming entrance.
Cozy log cabin illuminated at dusk, surrounded by trees, with a winding stone path and warm outdoor lighting.
Rustic log cabin with a stone chimney, surrounded by lush trees and vibrant flower beds, featuring a cozy outdoor seating area.
Glowing crown-shaped lanterns atop stone pillars, with a lush green lawn and lake in the background at sunset.
Lakeside cabin surrounded by trees, featuring a dock with boats and seating, reflecting in calm water.
Stone gateposts with a sign reading "Red Crown Lodge" and red crowns atop, surrounded by a lush forest backdrop.
Photographer: Paper Antler