Project: Cabin 18-6-15
Location: Canada
Type: Cabin
Size: 10 sq.m. (110 sq.ft.)
Year: 2021
This cabin is the product of limiting factors.
The clients asked “What is the maximum size we can build without requiring a permit?”
Local zoning by-law dictates that anything less than or equal to 10 sq.m. in size and 4.5 m in height does not require a building permit.
I always advocate for permitting because it ensures the safety and well being of future occupants and assures minimum efficiencies are met. It is important to always plan to build at or above code.
In this case, the clients plan to build their future home on the site but it will be a few years until they are able to do so. In the meantime, they want to have a small cabin they can escape to on weekends.
Once the primary residence is built, by-law dictates that a secondary structure shall also be less than 10 sq.m. in size and 4.5 m in height.
This simple space does not feature any electricity or running water but has a small wood stove to heat the shelter in the winter and for cooking small meals.
This no muss, no fuss structure functions as shelter from the elements & wildlife, a storage space, and a basecamp for mountain adventures.
minimAL footprint
The cabin sits on pile footings. Elevating the structure over the sloped terrain optimizes views and minimizes the impact of its footprint on the site.
It’s clad in locally sourced cedar. Cedar is naturally insect and rot resistant. This material does not require finishing and has been left to weather naturally. Over time it will achieve a beautiful silver patina.
entry sequence
The entrance delicately kisses the ground allowing you to step up away from the rugged site and onto a small deck where you can kick off your shoes and lean a pairs skis in a nook protected from harsh winds.
The exterior entry space is as important as any other space in the shelter. It protects the entry door from prevailing winds and provides shelter away from rain and snow when unlocking the cabin door.
fresh mountain air
The rear (North) elevation of the structure features two operable windows situated at varying heights to help naturally circulate fresh air.
As warm air from bodies or the wood stove rises in the space, it exits out the upper window accessed via the sleeping loft. Fresh, cool air is drawn in from the lower window in the main lounge space.
all tucked away
Inside the cabin you find that function follows form.
Exposed framing ensures the space feels as large as possible. Blocking between the studs transforms into shelving or a place to mount hooks that hang utensils.
The framing cavities allow for the ladder to the sleeping loft to be cleanly tucked away. The open guardrails contain the sleeping loft while preserving the openness of the space.
Below the wood stove is a small bay that offers storage for a nights supply of wood.
making every space count
The entry features two tall bays of millwork for hanging damp clothing and outdoor apparel. The shelving doubles as a bench to sit down and take off your shoes. The space below the bench is open so you can store your footwear out of the main circulation path.
The kitchen is minimalist: a small counter space and a bar sink that drains into a pail below. An elevated wood stove provides a hot plate to prepare meals.
In the living space, a large day bed functions as lounge seating with bulk storage below. Opposite the day bed, a small build out serves as a coffee table, or as another nook for lounging and taking in the majestic view.
purposeful design
The goal of this design was to make the small space feel grand. To do this, we structured the space so that you intentionally use it in specific ways.
Any time you are seated, you are positioned to look out and up. This makes the space feel tall and expansive.
The entry bench has views out the main door and towards the large build out.
The day bed has a strong connections to all parts of the shelter with views out to the valley and up to the sleeping loft.
Every inch becomes usable space with function and experience in mind.
Craftsmanship is exposed with a very intentional, methodical plan. No stud is haphazardly placed which results in a calm and collected environment.
