Is the DVC Treehouse Villas Refurbishment Project Starting Early?

Hey, Disney Vacation Club members! Have you heard the latest buzz about the DVC Treehouse Villas? Well, let me fill you in on some exciting developments. As of January 4, 2024, Disney has kicked off a new chapter for these beloved villas with a Notice of Commencement for what’s been intriguingly termed “General Construction” work. While the full details are still under wraps, it’s clear that something special is brewing for these iconic Disney Vacation Club (DVC) accommodations.

The Treehouse Villas, which became a part of the Saratoga Springs Resort family back in 2009, are now hitting their 14-year mark. For those in the know, this is a significant milestone because it’s usually when DVC rolls up its sleeves for a major refurbishment or in DVC terms a full refurbishment. Think of it as a spa day but for buildings! This could mean anything from chic new flooring to stylish bathroom upgrades, revamped kitchens, and perhaps even some trendy new furniture pieces. It’s like giving the villas a whole new wardrobe!

Before diving deeper into what’s in store for the Treehouse Villas, let’s talk about the types of refurbishments DVC resorts typically undergo. There are mainly two kinds:

• Refresh (Soft Goods Refurbishment): This is the lighter touch of the two, focusing on sprucing up the place. It includes updates to wall and floor coverings, window treatments, furniture upholstery, linens, and minor furnishings like artwork and light fixtures. It’s like giving the rooms a fresh coat of paint and new accessories!
• Full (Hard Goods Refurbishment): This is the big one! A full refurbishment encompasses everything in a refresh, plus more substantial changes like new appliances, kitchen cabinets, bathroom fixtures, and complete furniture replacement. It’s essentially a comprehensive rebuild of the guest room, typically starting around 14 years after the resort’s debut – exactly where the Treehouse Villas are now.

Interestingly, these refurbishments can vary. For example, in 2021, Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows and the Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa underwent a lighter refresh, which even included the installation of new pull-down Murphy Bed sleeper sofas in all rooms.

For the full DVC refurbishment schedule: CLICK HERE

However, there’s a unique twist to the Treehouse Villas. Unlike typical resort buildings, these were originally crafted off-site and then assembled right in the heart of Disney property. Very similar to what Disney is doing with the Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. Plus, they’re nestled in Florida’s delicate wetlands, which adds a layer of complexity to any renovation plans. This means the refurbishment might have some creative constraints, but knowing Disney, the magic will still happen!

During the DVC condo meeting in December 2023, the refurbishment of the Treehouse Villas was highlighted as a key project for 2025. But, with this new filing, it looks like the magic wand could start waving a bit earlier, with work possibly beginning in 2024 and wrapping up by 2025.

For those who love details, this first refurbishment wave will initially touch 15 out of the 60 treehouses, specifically numbers 7001 to 7004, 7015, 7035, 7037 to 7039, 7041, 7045, 7047, 7049, 7051, and 7056. And the clock is ticking, with the project slated to conclude by January 2, 2025.

So, what does this mean for you, the Disney Vacation Club member? Well, if you’re planning a trip around these dates, you might witness some of this transformation magic firsthand. Also, be aware there could be a little extra noise during the daytime hours. And for those dreaming of a future stay in the Treehouse Villas, get ready for an even more enhanced experience, as Disney is sure to sprinkle its refurbishment project with a generous dose of pixie dust! Stay tuned for more updates, and let’s get excited about the new wonders awaiting us at the DVC Treehouse Villas!

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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop

I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!