PRIVATE RETREAT
CAMP MADRON, MICHIGAN 1997
Sited just beyond the tree line where a stand of pines breaks and meadow begins, a long platform is situated to maximize the experience of these two simultaneous landscapes. Approached on foot through rows of mature pines, the building is elevated upon pilotis to minimize the impact to the site both visually and environmentally.
Sharing roots with local Michiana polebarns, this economical structure of glue laminated Douglas Fir bents, braces, and decking are held above runoff and snow by galvanized steel stirrups. Two small concrete mechanical cores anchor the central communal space at both ends and in turn serve the intimate sleeping chambers beyond. Above the service cores are lofts overlooking the central living space. The tall volume coupled with transom windows becomes well ventilated by whole house fans during the summer. Protected under deep eaves of corrugated steel, generous decks and windows maximize connections to the two landscapes.
For more, see the August 1999 issue of Fine Homebuilding, published by Taunton Press. Photos by William Kildow. General Contractor was Mead Construction.
View from Field
Situated adjacent to the central stair, the library provides a critical centrally located resource.
End Elevation
The exterior palette of stained shiplap cedar, galvanized roofing and trim, weathered decks, and expressed structural ribs are intended to gray through the seasons.
Transparency
With sides of sliding glass doors overlooking the cantilevered decks, the house becomes completely transparent
Interior
Within, the spaces are lit with the warmth of Douglas Fir, countered by cool plaster and linoleum, and framed with sash and fittings of aluminum and blackened steel.
Bedroom
A view of a spartan but elegant bedroom situated on the loft.
Approach
View of the approach through the evergreen stand.
Base Detail
A view of the connection of the base of the glulam bent to the galvanized steel supports.
Light Detail
A simple porcelain socket light fixture adorns the inside face of the glulam bent.
Deck at Night
Galvanized steel brackets support the lightweight corrugated metal roof.
