The first order of business was clearing the way for the massive remodeling job they had ahead of them . Keeping only three or four pieces of the existing furniture the previous owners hadn ’ t been able to dispose of , they donated other items to charities in Rapid City as well as to a couple of pastors ministering on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation . Old appliances and other things that couldn ’ t be given away went into dumpsters .
Based on their previous experience , they were able to do much of the work themselves including all the demolition . The Frisks say it was a complete overhaul in every way except for major structural changes . The previous owners had made some renovations to the layout so they didn ’ t have to knock out any walls but they did replace old plumbing fixtures , refinish hardwood floors , rip out old carpet , paint inside and out and install new lighting , furniture and décor .
Setting a goal of having the inn open for the 2021 travel
season , the Frisks knew they wouldn ’ t have time to do all the work themselves , plus they needed help from professionals for things like plumbing and electrical , so they contracted out some of the work . In addition to renovating the inn ’ s guest suites , the owners ’ residence and the common areas like the breakfast room , they also gutted and completely remodeled the separate restaurant .
The process came at a cost of six months of labor and over $ 250,000 , but because of the quick sale of their three properties in Minnesota , the Frisks say they were able to go all in on the project to get it just right .
And get it right they did . The completed project boasts seven beautifully remodeled rental suites , breakfast and coffee bars and comfortable common areas both inside and out which include well-designed patio and gazebo areas in which to enjoy the mountain air . The breakfast bar even has a commercial kitchen which was repurposed from the old restaurant .
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