Cabin House Channels Simple Shelter Feel in North Carolina Woods

The three interconnected volumes of Cabin House were strategically organized to maximize views and sunlight. Rusafova-Markulis architects designed one section—a high-ceilinged public component containing the main living, dining and cooking space—with views in three directions and a covered deck.

The other volume was designated as a private section that follows the topography of the site by stepping down a few steps to house two bedrooms, two bathrooms and an additional space that could be used as a media or office room.

The intentional organization of the space is visible due to the roof height of the public volume that makes it taller than the others, also enabling larger windows for increased daylight in those areas. Window placement was strategic— all were designed to capture views of the surrounding forest.

“We organized the building program into three volumes – cars/auto-court, public and private and housed each in a simple box then slid the boxes against each other to allow for views and sunlight,” the architecture studio Rusafova-Markulis architects said.

Additionally, the configuration allowed for a sizeable deck space for optimal outdoor living.

The entirety of the public and private areas have a simple, neutral color palette marked by warmth and contrast.

The smooth finish on the exterior comprises cement lap siding painted black as a juxtaposition to the warm interior.

“There is a quiet presence and lack of distraction on the interior with natural materials of knots and nail markings adding subtle detail and character,” studio director Stan Markulis said.

Designed in Asheville, North Carolina, the interior features light wood floors and rough-sawn pine plywood ceilings and incorporated items from Ikea—including most notably the kitchen cabinetry with white fronts.

Markulis emphasized that throughout the process of reduction the approach on the interior was intentional so that it can accommodate the life that happens there.

“We wanted to create a background to the space with limitations in variety for material and color,” he explained.

Beyond the contrasting effects of the black exterior and interior finishes, they were chosen for specific practical reasons.

For example, the window trim was painted black which besides visually connecting it to the exterior facade, this choice was applied for the “practical reason of the frame lines disappearing and views out being the focus.”

Similarly, the stark choices for the exteriors were selected due to long-lasting purposes.

“The exterior paint was chosen for durability and results of lasting quality,” Markulis said.

With time the forest surrounding Cabin House on the wooded suburban lot is expected to be less visible from the road as the native vegetation will grow back close to the house.

Rusafova-Markulis architects are known for their dynamic designs that prioritize form and functionality, particularly with a special focus on homes.