Our client was moving back to East Tennessee where she grew up after retiring from work in the environmental field. She found the perfect piece of property bounded on two sides by Big Ridge State park and a small stream. The lot had been partially clear cut by a previous owner, but our client had a vision of restoring it with a native meadows and trees. She turned to us to design a small house (1,300sf) that would sit gently on the site. We choose a location near the wooded edge but far enough from the trees not to damage their roots.

We designed the house to be close to nature with plenty of natural light and operable windows. From the back porch, she has views of the woods and sounds of the stream from the tree-house-like perch. Inside the home we choose natural materials including slate tile, pine flooring, and soapstone countertops.

The home is very energy efficient. We detailed the walls, floor and roof to be very well insulated. High quality windows with deep overhangs protect the house from direct sunlight in the summer while letting sunlight in during the winter months. The completed home is cozy, welcoming and always connected to nature that surrounds it.