On a private inholding in the Wenatchee National Forest, this mountain-high, off-grid retreat is built to thrive in the abundant snowfall and extreme seasonal temperature swings. The cabin sits on an unwooded knoll to minimize impact on the existing site. Its design is pragmatic, durable, and energy efficient.
The straight-forward shed roof holds snow which provides a free, insulating, energy-saving bonus while reducing the chance of slough off or avalanche. The concrete base is set above the average snowfall line to protect siding and wood framing from the freeze-thaw zone. There is no exposed wood on the exterior to aid in fire protection.
The home incorporates robust solutions to off-grid utilities. An 8kW solar array is sited away from the home to optimize energy collection, while a battery bank coupled with a sophisticated power management system ensures the lights stay on during long winter nights. A 70,000-gallon cistern allows the low-producing well to supply both domestic water and reserve water for wildfire response.
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