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1 FLOOR PLAN 1 BRIDGE 2 BATHROOM 3 OUTDOOR SHOWER 4 BEDROOM 5 KITCHEN 6 LIVING ROOM 7 DECK
SECTION LOOKING SOUTH
path that leads to the edge of a ridge before continuing onto a wooden bridge that connects to the cabin’s entrance. A sense of shelter and mystery emanates from this south elevation, a wall screening the extended view beyond. Once inside, views to the outdoors unfold through the transparency of screened openings and an exterior deck. Amenities are few—a small kitchen, a bathroom with shower open to the trees and water pumped from the lake, and just enough power for a few electrical needs. There is no heating, no cooling. Rather than offering full protection from the outdoors, the cabin invites occupants to become a part of the surrounding nature, albeit for a limited amount of time. The shelter allows a temporary stay in this natural surrounding to be protected only by what is more of a veil that receives varying light of the day and night, the mountain air, and the sounds of the forest, while providing views to the surrounding world. “It is a protected porch,” Andersson reflects, “made like a piece of furniture.” The desig n of the cabin succeeds as it embodies a statement of simplicity, respecting its wilderness setting and providing a perch for quiet visitation to this special place. The writer is the principal of Upchurch Architects in Brenham.
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