Imagine pulling up to a Disney resort where the architecture itself whispers tales of nature's grandeur. Get ready, because Disney's Lakeshore Lodge is shaping up to be just that, and recent construction updates reveal even more stunning details! The extended porte cochere at the entrance is taking shape, and the A-frame cabins are receiving some seriously impressive enhancements. But here's where it gets controversial… some Disney fans believe the resort's design is straying too far from the classic Disney aesthetic. What do you think?
Disney Lakeshore Lodge Construction: A Closer Look
Nestled beside Fort Wilderness Resort along the picturesque Bay Lake, the Disney Lakeshore Lodge is rising steadily. Echoing the spirit of the early Reflections concept, this Disney Vacation Club resort aims to immerse guests in the "majesty of nature and its enduring influence on Disney artists.” Scheduled to open its doors in 2027, the resort's progress is readily visible from the monorail and the water taxi route connecting Magic Kingdom to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. It's easy to see the progress, but is it progressing fast enough? Let's dive in.
A-Frame Cabins: Details, Details, Details!
The A-frame cabins, arranged in neat rows on either side of the main resort building, are receiving a lot of love. Crews have been busy adding more supports and intricate wood details to these charming structures over the past few weeks. Estimates suggest that the resort will boast at least 20 of these cabins, offering guests a unique and cozy lodging experience. And this is the part most people miss… These cabins aren't just for sleeping; they're designed to be an integral part of the immersive natural experience, blurring the lines between indoor comfort and outdoor beauty.
While all the A-frame cabins are becoming more complete, the construction teams seem to be prioritizing those closest to the resort's main building. Many of the other cabins, including those near Clementine Beach, are currently just framed, utilizing a combination of wood and steel. It's like watching a beautiful painting slowly come to life, stroke by stroke.
Overall Resort Progress: Sheathing, Roofs, and Balconies
Much of the rest of the resort remains consistent with previous updates. However, most buildings now sport at least one layer of sheathing or are being meticulously prepped for concrete work. Roof work and the construction of numerous overhangs are also progressing across all sections of this sprawling resort. Think of it as a giant puzzle, with each piece carefully placed to create a cohesive and breathtaking whole.
Notably, a majority of the visible balconies now have doors installed, and most windows are also in place. This suggests that the focus is shifting towards interior work and finalizing the exterior facades. Toward the middle of the resort, crew members are diligently working on the upper areas of buildings and balconies that haven't progressed as quickly. It's a race against time to get everything ready for the 2027 grand opening!
Dock Work and the Wing Near Fort Wilderness
The barge has shifted slightly, indicating ongoing work on what is believed to be a new dock. Metal and woodwork extend from the grounds out over the water, hinting at potential waterfront amenities or recreational areas. The wing closest to Fort Wilderness has seen faster progress than the rest of the resort, with continued work on sheathing, additional overhang frames, and roofing. This area could potentially offer stunning views of Fort Wilderness and Bay Lake.
The Grand Entrance: Porte Cochere Taking Shape
The resort's entrance is receiving significant attention, with even more steelwork in place. The red steel is reinforced at the bottom with concrete and covered in blue tarp at the top, perhaps to protect it from the elements. With the updated front and backside of the resort’s main entrance, it appears that this is one of the team’s main focus points in current construction.
Around the front side of the resort, the porte cochere, a covered entrance designed to protect guests from the elements, is rapidly taking shape. Silver framing now extends from the red steel, creating a distinctive and elegant arrival experience. This extended covered area will allow vehicles to pass through easily, greatly improving the check-in and check-out process for guests. The unique design, inspired by concept art, is starting to materialize, offering a glimpse of the resort's overall aesthetic.
Views from Fort Wilderness
Portions of the resort are visible from Fort Wilderness, providing a sneak peek at the progress. The section of the resort visible from the arcade/Pioneer Hall area of Fort Wilderness is currently the most complete, offering a tantalizing glimpse of what's to come.
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So, what are your initial thoughts on the Disney Lakeshore Lodge? Do you think the design aligns with the natural theme, or does it stray too far from the classic Disney look? And what amenities are you most excited to see at this new resort? Share your opinions in the comments below! Let's get the conversation started!
