Maybe it’s because we long for a “simpler time.”
A time when families piled into cars and kids had to entertain themselves without iphones, ipads, or Nintendo Switch.
A time when design was streamlined and unembellished.
A time when parents would grill dinner while the kids shrieked with joy from the nearby pool, and no one felt the need to document it or edit their memories with filters before posting online, almost to prove that it had actually happened.
Whatever the motivation, there is a growing movement toward renovating old motels and reincarnating them into retro-chic, eco-friendly lodging.
From Palm Springs to Malibu, New Orleans to Austin, Boston to the Hamptons, these renovated motels have been popping up for the past 20 years.
The Magnolia Network even has a show, “Inn the Works,” which follows Lindey Kurowski and her siblings as they breathe new life into old motels.
Season one of Inn the Works followed their journey renovating the Oak Knoll Lodge in Big Bear, California. Season 2 featured the renovation of The Springs Motel in New Ashford, MA.
Here’s a 1-minute trailer:
We had never heard of The Springs Motel or the TV show for that matter. However, one Thursday night in July, we found ourselves driving up to The Berkshires to pick one of our kids up from overnight camp, and we had no idea where we were going to stay.
We wanted to avoid the overpriced chain hotels, but also didn’t want to stay someplace sketchy. Only about 30 minutes from our final destination, we still had no clue where we were going to stay. But a quick Google search led us to one of our favorite new spots: The Springs Motel. Here’s our review:
Review: The Springs Motel Has a Funky, 1950s Vibe
We did not have prior reservations for The Springs Motel, and just pulled into the parking lot on a Thursday evening in July hoping that they had vacancy.
It turns out that they did, as weeknights are generally slower than weekends, which can be full, especially during Fall foliage season.
Tip: We made reservations over the phone as there was no one working onsite at the motel when we arrived. They gave us a room number and code to unlock the door over the phone as well.
We were excited to get a room on the spot and knew instantly that our stay would be a lot more memorable than staying at a hotel chain in that $150 price range.
The vibe at The Springs Motel is decidedly cool.
While most motels allow you to drive right up to your room, the original parking lot of The Springs Motel has been replaced with a sprawling lawn dotted with sofas, fire pits, and grills, all under strings of twinkle lights. The turf-framed pool is surrounded by inviting lounge chairs, and an old RV-turned bar into a bar is perched near picnic tables.
I may have muttered, “I want my house to look like this,” more than once.
The Springs Motel: Guest Rooms
The Springs Motel’s cool factor doesn’t stop at the exterior. Each room has a vintage-inspired lawn chair by the door. No keys are necessary here- every room is entered with a key code- which made checking in after the office was closed a breeze. Our king-size bed was simple and extremely comfortable.
The small bathroom kept the old-school feel going with the original blue tile throughout.
We appreciated the smart tv and the frigidaire mini fridge. Even the microwave and coffee maker gave off a 60’s vibe. Speaking of coffee, it’s complimentary and delicious.
If you need more space, check out the funky 2 room Honeymoon Suite or Retro Cabin Duplex #2
Traveling with a larger group? The 3 cabins, outfitted with awesome wallpaper, unique lighting fixtures, and touches like cozy blankets and houseplants, each accommodate between 6-7 people, feature 2-3 bedrooms, and have full kitchens.
The Springs Motel: Amenities
In addition to the retro-camper bar area (illuminated by the original globe lights used at the motel), the Springs Motel boasts a renovated, 60’s style kidney-shaped pool- complete with pool floats.
The pool borders the Front Lawn, which was the original parking lot for the motel. You would never guess that this inviting space- complete with lawn games, wood-burning fire pits, and grills– used to be asphalt.
Inside the cozy lobby, you’ll find a bar and a wood-burning fireplace.
Cost: The Springs Motel costs about $140 per night during the week and $200 per night on Friday and Saturday nights. The most popular time to stay at The Springs is during Fall foliage when the leaves change color in The Berkshires
Located in New Ashford, MA – The Williamstown / Pittsfield Area
The Springs Motel is located at 94 U.S. 7, New Ashford, MA 01237
New Ashford Massachusettes is in The Berkshires midway between Williamstown and Pittsfield, MA, and is an hour north of Great Barrington. Close to hiking, skiing, bike trails, lakes, theater, and art galleries, it’s a year-round destination for couples and families.
There are a number of restaurants nearby; we had an amazing dinner at the Proprietor’s Lodge, overlooking Pontoosuc Lake. That’s the view from our table!
The Springs Motel: Customer Reviews
The Springs Motel gets high ratings on most of the leading travel sites including Trip Advisor. However, I did notice a few bad reviews online, so I decided to investigate.
It turns out that most of the bad reviews for The Springs Motel pre-date the recent change of ownership and renovation in 2022.
So, while there are some complaints here and there (including the lack of on-site employees) I recommend that you disregard reviews posted before 2022. I assume the Springs Motel was a dilapidated mess before the new ownership and extensive renovations!
The Springs Motel Review: Bottom Line
From the chill, retro vibe to the meticulous design details, we absolutely loved our night at The Springs Motel. In the morning we actually ran into Lindsey, the owner, and star of “Inn the Works.” She was so friendly and genuine; you could tell that she has put her heart and soul into this space.
She explained that her team was about to start phase two of the renovations- a 2 story building behind the already finished structure. If it’s anything like the completed spaces, we’re sure it will be worth a return visit! Our kids would absolutely love The Springs Motel, so, next time we’ll have to bring them along.
Or, maybe not!
