A construction site on Railway Street between Baker and Lupfer avenues is being transformed from a hole in the ground to the Larch House, an independently owned, luxury boutique hotel slated to open in October. 

The building is the product of Dallas-based real estate firm SHOP Development. 

“From the outset, SHOP Development has been committed to being respectful to the history of Whitefish,” said Daniel Fuller, president of the firm. “Larch House is a modern reimagining of an alpine lodge, and we believe it will be a transformational anchor for Whitefish residents and visitors alike.” 

The Larch House was designed by Olson Kundig and features 10 buildings that house 39 rooms. Larch House suites are in the main building, as are the Larch House Queen rooms. The interior-focused Lounghouse buildings contain the Longhouse King rooms. Some Cabin suites open to a private courtyard and seven are dog friendly.  

All rooms offer high-end amenities like La Bottega plush robes, 60-inch smart televisions and heated bathroom floors. There is also a gear room available to guests.  

Nightly rates vary depending on room type, season, and day of the week. Larch House queen rooms will start around $250 during shoulder season and the largest cabin suites may reach up to $1,400 per night during peak summer months.   

“We’re seeing a trend throughout a lot of ski towns as they make a transition to become year-round adventure destinations,” said Tom Kundig, owner and founder of Olson Kundig. “Regardless of the season you’re visiting, you still need a comfortable refuge before embarking on those big adventures out in nature. Larch House gives visitors a choice to tailor their refuge and their adventure.” 

Kundig said the Larch House was designed with a balance of vintage Scandinavian and custom touches. He said the construction team utilized sustainably sourced natural building products and native plants and trees. 

The Larch House’s restaurant is called Enga. Culinary Directors, Chef Michael Cartwright and partner Laura Clayton will offer a seasonal, regionally inspired menu. 

"Local sourcing is at the heart of our culinary program,” said Fuller. “Our team is actively developing partnerships with farms, ranches, and purveyors across the Flathead Valley and greater Montana.”  

The restaurant connects the interior lounge, which will display art from the hotel’s private collection, to the outdoor courtyard and boulder garden. The hotel also offers the antler room, a snug-type space that contains a collection of antique antlers. 

On the roof of the Larch House building is the Terrace, a social area with a bar and a heated spa pool. 

The developers said they are committed to hiring local people and providing “competitive wages, a supportive work environment, and meaningful long-term growth opportunities for our team.” 

According to SHOP Companies, Fuller’s family has been rooted in the Whitefish community for more than 20 years and he is committed to its long-term stewardship. 

“The historic Railway District is such a distinct part of downtown Whitefish, and we wanted to build upon that legacy,” Fuller said. “We saw an opportunity to create something truly transformational — a project that could elevate the district while honoring its character. 

“We felt a strong pull to create an intimate hospitality project that locals could be proud of, one that’s rooted in the history and spirit of Whitefish but also helps it grow in a thoughtful, sustainable and community-forward way,” he added. “We hope it becomes both a discreet refuge for hotel guests and a welcoming social and cultural hub for the local community.” 

For more information visit LarchHouse.com 

    A rendition of a Cabin Suite at the Larch House hotel. (Image provided)

    A rendering of the main entrance of the Larch House hotel located at 304 E. First St. (Image provided)