Darrel and Patrice Maxam have transformed a 48-acre abandoned apple orchard in Sodus into a growing collection of treehouses, villas and other nature-focused accommodations, according to the Times of Wayne County.
The couple bought the property in 2023 after Patrice’s mother, Beverly Waterman, encouraged them to consider the site before her death from cancer in 2024.
Five prefabricated A-frame cabins designed by Darrel were shipped from Finland and assembled on the property, creating what is now known as Finger Lakes Treehouse.
The retreat has since expanded to include modern villas with locally built wood-fired hot tubs, a restored Airstream, hiking trails, a clubhouse and space for weddings and other events.
The Maxams are considering additional development in Sodus, including a possible “agrihood” of small rental villas built around shared gardens and communal amenities.
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