HEADFRAME CABIN
Clinging to a rock outcropping on a steep slope overlooking the valley, Headframe is a retreat for a pair of avid nature-lovers seeking an immersive and awe-inspiring living experience. Born from a deep appreciation for the surrounding landscape, the interior spaces and window openings are carefully positioned, framing the expansive views, and creating a dynamic connection between the interior and the surrounding environment.
Asked by the clients to make a cabin in which nature is the art, this request was taken quite literally. Inside, a large boulder fireplace and hearth takes center stage, embodying the rugged beauty of the site while providing a warm and inviting atmosphere. The presence of this stunning natural feature creates a captivating focal point and connects occupants directly to the landscape. Outside, the covered “Treehouse” deck provides a feeling of floating in the forest canopy, offering a tranquil space to take in the views high above the slope. A glass bridge suspended between the trees is another notable feature, offering a different perspective of the site and reinforcing the varied connections between the cabin and its picturesque setting.
The exterior form and materials of the project draw on the history of the site as part of an old mining claim. Rugged and immediate, the use of weathered steel and reclaimed barn wood hint toward a past frontier while creating a distinctive architectural language that seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings.
Limited access to the site and challenging topography presented unique design opportunities for the team. By elevating the structure on slender steel columns, the cabin gracefully hovers above the landscape, minimizing disruption to the natural environment and touching the land as lightly as possible. This design choice not only preserves the integrity of the site, but also enhances the sense of floating among the trees and feeling part of the surrounding forest.
The design team also chose to embrace efficient and innovative processes in construction. Staging area was extremely limited, so the project was divided into two main structures. This approach allowed for efficient construction sequencing, reduced impact on the site, and an expedited building process. To further streamline the build, the team relied heavily on prefabrication and extensive design coordination before construction began. This approach intends to drastically reduce the time required on-site, enabling our clients to enjoy their mountain retreat sooner than expected.
