Forest Retreat in remote Door County exemplifies a contemporary interpretation of Wisconsin’s cabin architecture, blending simplicity with precision. This intimate sanctuary for a professional writer features two stacked volumes—a concrete base for storage and a wood-clad upper structure—harmonizing with the surrounding woodland.

The exterior showcases a meticulously detailed envelope combining in-situ concrete with thermally modified pine, creating a horizontally articulated façade that contrasts subtly with the verticality of the surrounding trees. Over time, the pine will weather to match the hues of the concrete and local bark, further integrating the structure with its natural setting.

The design prioritizes sustainability and minimal environmental impact, preserving mature trees and utilizing materials for their durability and efficiency. 

“The concrete formwork was beautifully detailed to match the boards so when the cedar boards age it will appear as one continuous surface. Lovely.”

Margaret Cavenagh, AIA (2024 Design Awards Juror)

The retreat’s footprint is compact, minimizing disruption to the forest floor, while the choice of high-performance materials, such as thermally modified pine and concrete with fly-ash, ensures long-term resilience and low maintenance. Triple-pane Low-E glazing and a solar PV array contribute to the building’s energy efficiency, with passive design strategies such as cross-ventilation reducing the need for mechanical cooling.