CHALLENGE
The project site is located in the high country near McCall, Idaho, where a short seasonal building window, limited availability of skilled trades, and severe winter conditions dictate construction. Heavy snow loads, prolonged cold, and logistical constraints required an efficient building approach that delivered long-term durability and high energy performance. The client envisioned a contemporary mountain cabin that would serve as a year-round retreat, balancing modern architectural expression with resilience, warmth, and low operational demands.
SOLUTION
We utilized a pre-engineered metal building framework as the home’s structural backbone. This system allowed for accelerated construction, predictable tolerances, and reduced on-site labor, all critical advantages in McCall’s constrained building environment. We paired this structure with a super-insulated building envelope designed to perform reliably through extended winters, minimizing energy demand while enhancing interior comfort.
Architecturally, the cabin is composed of a series of clean, gabled forms that facilitate snow shedding while maintaining a restrained, contemporary profile. Durable exterior materials, including metal cladding, natural wood, and stone, were selected for longevity and low maintenance in harsh alpine conditions. Deep roof overhangs and covered decks extend the living area and provide weather protection, reinforcing the cabin’s connection to its forested setting.
Interior spaces center on an open, light-filled great room anchored by a stone fireplace. Large expanses of glazing frame views of the landscape while maintaining thermal performance through high-efficiency assemblies. Exposed structural elements, wood ceilings, and carefully detailed stairs express the building’s construction logic, adding richness without excess. The kitchen and living areas are designed for flexibility, supporting both quiet retreats and larger family gatherings.
RESULT
The completed cabin is a resilient, modern mountain home tailored to the realities of Idaho’s high country. By leveraging a pre-engineered structural system and a high-performance envelope, the project achieves efficiency and durability without sacrificing architectural quality. The home performs reliably through extreme winters while offering warm, inviting spaces that connect deeply to the landscape. We created a practical, enduring retreat perfectly suited to its environment.