Mesa Cabin
The design for this remote cabin grew out of the clients’ deep appreciation of the local landscape and the region’s traditional homesteads. Their goal was to build a small structure with the architectural character of those found historically in Western Colorado.
Following traditional patterns, they had chosen a location for the building at the edge of a grove of mature aspens on a large parcel of undeveloped land which had been used for grazing cattle in recent generations. The choices of location and scale for the cabin help the building recede into the larger landscape.
The program requirements were minimal, and priority was given to the quality of materials and workmanship over the quantity of space and amenities.
Thick exterior walls with splayed window jambs maximize daylighting and views of the landscape from the interior while maintaining traditional window proportions on the exterior.
Reclaimed materials were used for structural framing, flooring, paneling, and siding. The fireplace enclosure was constructed of stone gathered on the property, and the roof covered in corrugated steel treated to rust.
Location: San Miguel County, Colorado
General Contractor: Fortenberry Construction
Structural Engineering: Dean Bosworth, P. E.