Nestled away in the Kootenay mountain range, this compact ski cabin aims at connecting family members to each other and to the unbound natural landscape that surrounds it.
The entire design process was very much family-oriented. Home owner, Sandra Bassett employed her sister and brother-in-law of Twobytwo Architecture Studio to design a cabin where their family could gather, relax and partake in their favorite winter activities. The house was structurally designed by Sandra’s husband Chris Urbinsky.
Chris’s steel engineering background became the primary inspiration for features showcased throughout the cabin, from the cantilevered steel balcony, douglas fir rafters, to the continuous industrial staircase that spans the 3 level cabin. The common space is situated on the upper floor surrounded by douglas fir and cedar, composing a quiet gathering space among the treetops. From the upper level balcony you can take in the panoramic view of the Columbia River Valley and wetlands.
The architecture and materials of the cabin were inspired by the cabin’s natural surroundings. Situated firmly with a solid podium, the cabin’s simple rectangular footprint towers above the trees, capped with a simple shed roof to maximize height toward the prevailing views. The uncomplicated and rudimental palette of wood and concrete is employed both on the exterior and interior.
