The Modern Cabin
Located in Western Wisconsin. Our client wanted an energy-efficient, modern design while still maintaining a comfy cabin feel. Since modern typically isn’t synonymous with comfy, we created a hybrid design. We did this by combining traditional cabin finishes such as wide-plank wood flooring and knotty Alder trim with more modern finishes like steel, concrete and innovative manufactured materials.

Products:
All the products used where selected with a green purpose in mind. Some examples include: Engineered lumber, reclaimed wood floors, ENERGY STAR rated furnace and appliances, low VOC paints, double low-e windows, eco-friendly recycled carpet, fiber-cement siding and sustainable decking made from recycled plastic.

Site:
The cabin is an infill project on a small site where a flood destroyed an old cabin. To reduce the impact on the lake, we consciously placed the cabin as far back from the shoreline as possible. Landscaping was all done with native vegetation that flourishes in dry, sandy soil.

Systems:
Energy efficiency was accomplished on a tight budget. Large glass surfaces were positioned on the building to allow for natural sunlight to reduce energy costs. Closed-cell foam insulation was blown in the wall and ceiling cavities to create a tight envelope. The heating and cooling systems are extremely energy efficient and a tankless hot water heater provides the hot water.

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