A Prism in the Wood is an award winning architecturally designed home nestled in the woods of Mt. Desert, through which passes the constantly changing light of the Maine seasons. The house is a frame of steel tubes completely enclosed in glass with the living spaces within floating like platforms through the grid. A light steel stair reaches up through the steel tubes to the second floor and a further spiral stair connects to the owner’s private quarters on the uppermost level. The levels are also connected by a free-standing glass elevator, the use of which is reserved to people above 21 year-old without children.
The ceilings are of unfinished fir planks and the floors of maple. All materials and finishes are hypoallergenic or chemically neutral.
The structure is anchored at one end by the concrete mass of the fireplace that serves on the outside as a giant scupper carrying off the rainwater from the long sloping roof. Standing on light steel extensions of the interior frame the house floats above the forest floor, visually and physically connected at the entrance by massive slabs of granite. Furniture is of contemporary design, mostly manufactured in Italy and Denmark. Contemporary artworks are hanged on the wall, suspended from the interior frame and free-standing on the floor.
This stunning property has been published several times in architecture magazines, books and on the NYT. It as all you will need for your island visit, the perfect place to relax at the end of and active day in the park. Centrally located in Mount Desert, it lies at about 500 meters from the top tip of Some Sound.
FIRST FLOOR: Enter into a light and modern great room. Comfortable seating by the gas fireplace with a nearby screened in porch. Dining area with a large round table and seating for six. Kitchen with gas stove and spacious pantry. Home office space with access to a large garage with two large floor-to-ceiling windows. Half bath.
SECOND FLOOR: Open, loft style bedroom with Queen bed. Full bath with tub and shower.
THIRD FLOOR: Master bedroom with Queen bed, and full bath including shower and small soaking tub.
BASEMENT with laundry machine and dryer.
EXTRAS: Elevator available for for occupants over 21 years of age. Though a very useful convenience this elevator poses a potential hazard and must be operated with the utmost of caution and at its own risk. Outdoor propane grill. Large garage. NO AIR CONDITIONING.
WARNINGS Among the complains received are: 1. “The top floor mattress is way too firm”. It is true that it is thin and very firm. But that is the bed where the home owner sleeps, and how he likes it ….
2. No blinds on the bedroom windows. The house configuration, with two full walls of glass, doesn’t allow for it
3. In summer, before the birch trees reach full foliage, early morning sun can be annoying for people lying in bed
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Use of elevator is at tenants’ own risks. Owners will not be held liable for malfunctioning or failures.
Elevator use is restricted to people older than 21 years.Never use the elevator while alone at home, as in case of malfunctioning nobody can help you.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 10888816
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
About the area
Mount Desert
Located in Somesville, a neighbourhood in Mount Desert, this holiday home is in a rural area and by the ocean. Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co is a popular attraction and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Acadia National Park and Acadia National Park's Visitors Center. Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf and College of the Atlantic Natural History Museum are also worth visiting. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as snowmobiling, ice skating and sledging.
Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co - 14 min drive - 19.1 km
Acadia National Park's Visitors Center - 16 min drive - 16.9 km
Cadillac Mountain - 25 min drive - 24.8 km
Getting around
Bar Harbor, ME (BHB-Hancock County - Bar Harbor) - 15 min drive
Restaurants
Shell - 5 min drive
Milagro's - 9 min drive
Circle K - 9 min drive
Little Notch Bakery - 11 min drive
Jordan Pond House - 23 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is A Prism in the Wood pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows pets (limit 2 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much does it cost to stay at A Prism in the Wood?
As of 27 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at A Prism in the Wood on 9 June 2026 start from NZ$1,005, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at A Prism in the Wood?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at A Prism in the Wood?
Check-in begins at 5:30 PM.
What time is check-out at A Prism in the Wood?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is A Prism in the Wood located?
Located in Somesville, this holiday home is 1 mi (1.6 km) from Acadia Repertory Theater and 3 mi (4.8 km) from Acadia National Park. Maine Granite Industry Museum and Long Pond are also within 3 miles (5 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
This was truly an exceptional stay. The house is an architectural gem built in 1994 allowing nature, light and beauty into the unique structure. Stefano was a perfect and generous host. I would recommend this stay to anyone wanting to be near Acadia but not near the tourism of Bar Harbor. It's truly a secluded, quiet yet convenient location.
The House was amazing. There was plenty of space for 4 of us—great amenities and thorough check-in and out instructions. Beautiful landscape and a convenient location for visiting Bar Harbor.
Heather F.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 2 July 2024
Happy that you enjoyed it, Heather.
You, as well, were wonderful guests.
We enjoyed a wonderful stay at this architectural masterpiece. Everything was beautifully prepared by the host with no surprises. Property is situated very conveniently near Bar Harbor and Acadia national park. Would certainly recommend to others.
Tim M.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 10 October 2024
Thanks for leaving a review, TIm.
I am happy you enjoyed your stay.
Stefano
We had a remarkable time at Prism in the Woods. You literally felt like you were in the middle of Acadia National Park. It was quiet, great places to walk, close to fun sites and eateries…nothing but beautiful memories!
Chris H.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 12 October 2023
I am happy that you enjoyed the place, Chris.
Thanks for your kind words.
Our stay at A Prism in the Wood was nothing short of extraordinary. This magnificent home is a true masterpiece, blending artistic design with exceptional comfort. The house was impeccably clean and thoughtfully organized. Every amenity we could possibly need was provided. With the fresh scent of pine trees, the unobstructed view of woodlands at every level, and sightings of deer, foxes, we felt like we were one with nature. The location was perfect, tucked away on the quieter side of the island, yet just 10-20 minutes from Bar Harbor and Acadia’s highlights, making it ideal for exploring. This home is a treasure, and we can’t wait to return in early spring. Highly recommend for anyone seeking a perfect blend of serenity, style, and convenience.
This home was a lovely refuge for our family, and we enjoyed having it as a home base to explore the hikes on that side of the island. Highly recommend the Beech Hill Farm Stand, as well as the Acadia Mtn/St. Sauveur trails.
Truly a singular property. The prisim in the woods is unlike any place I’ve ever stayed. Our dog enjoyed his time roaming the forest too. We will definitely be back. Stefano is the best host.
The property is absolutely stunning. The architecture of the house is simple, smart, functional and comfortable. The house is well appointed with everything you could need and provides a perfect place to relax away from the crowds.
Julie G.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 12 June 2023
Thanks Julie. I am happy you enjoyed your stay.
Stefano
We visit Acadia with our teenage children every summer, and this is the most incredible house we have ever rented. Unique design, photos do not do it justice - very modern, clean, stocked on all essentials. Location is perfect for hiking in Acadia, yet gives you plenty of privacy in the woods.
Olga S.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 16 September 2021
Thanks Olga, for the review and for having been a perfect guest.
We had a wonderful stay at Stefano's home in the middle of the woods in Maine. It was an easy, twelve minute drive to Bar Harbor and there was plenty to explore and do close by. The home itself was beyond beautiful, with full-wall windows that made it feel like you were sitting outside constantly. We would love to come back eventually and definitely recommend.
My husband, our dog, and I had the most magical time at the Prism in the Woods. It was everything we hoped for and more! It was the perfect place to stay while we were on our elopement vacation! Already looking forward to returning in the future!
A Prism in the Woods is a destination in and of itself, but also served as an amazing home base for our Acadia adventures. We have been to MDI multiple times previously and this is truly one our favorite travel experiences. Thank you Stefano for being so helpful, accommodating and accessible!
Richard C.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023
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