Sedona’s hospitality scene has gained a bold new presence with the unveiling of Mountain Modern Sedona, a fully reimagined and revitalized property by Chanen Construction, a subsidiary of Dick Anderson Construction (DAC). Less than a year after work began, the project celebrated its grand opening on April 26, 2025, marking a milestone for both the company and the Sedona tourism industry.

Originally operating as Sedona Real Inn & Suites and owned by Crystal Creek Capital, the property underwent a complete overhaul beginning in June 2024, evolving into a modern, adventure-centric retreat. The renovation reflects the growing trend of design-forward hospitality projects aimed at nature-seeking travelers, and brings DAC’s Mountain Modern brand—first launched in Jackson Hole, Wyoming—into Arizona.

The extensive renovation covered eight buildings and included 89 rooms, studios, and suites, all upgraded in phases to allow the hotel to remain partially operational. The crown jewel of the project was the full transformation of the lobby, now featuring a stylish bar and an expanded culinary kitchen inspired by the region’s flavors. The pool area was also reimagined, adding an elevated recreational hub to the property’s amenities.

“Chanen Construction embraced this project's unique opportunities, including adhering to strict noise and safety protocols to ensure a seamless experience for hotel guests during renovations,” said Rivers Anderson, Project Manager for Chanen Construction. “Work hours were thoughtfully scheduled between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to minimize disruption, reflecting our commitment to guest satisfaction. Additionally, the team collaborated closely with the city of Sedona to honor dark sky ordinances and color restrictions, ensuring compliance while achieving the project’s aesthetic vision.”

This careful attention to detail and collaboration with the city allowed Chanen to integrate local codes into the design, such as the region's color palette requirements and its celebrated commitment to dark sky preservation—important factors in maintaining Sedona’s unique identity.

“This project showcases our ability to navigate complex renovations while respecting the unique character of Sedona,” added Dean Howard, Vice President of Development for Chanen Construction. “We're proud to work with local contractors and adapt to the city's specific requirements, all while transforming this property into a modern, adventure-focused destination.”

Chanen’s work extended beyond construction; it actively supported local economic development, partnering exclusively with Arizona-based contractors—many of them from the Verde Valley. Key contributors included Pur Solar & Electrical from Cottonwood and Tyler Baxter Enterprises, which oversaw demolition, framing, and drywall. Straightline Custom Painting, a subcontractor familiar with the building’s past, played a pivotal role in maintaining the approved color scheme.

Each guest room now features a distinctive 7-by-5-foot mural of Sedona’s red rock landscapes, captured by photographer Ryan Sheets, adding a strong sense of place and visual storytelling to the guest experience. The updated design also included new flooring, millwork, and modern finishes throughout.

A notable challenge during the renovation was maintaining daily hotel operations, especially around critical facilities like the laundry room, which required careful planning and coordination to keep running smoothly during upgrades. Despite a tight schedule, the project remained on track, a testament to the coordination between Chanen, hotel management, and city officials.

With this successful transformation, Chanen Construction solidifies its reputation for delivering complex hospitality projects that reflect both local culture and modern guest expectations.

Originally reported by The Prescott Times.