In a New York Times article on November 14, 2008 Louise Tutelian wrote about a new trend toward cabin life across America and how cabins have been “re-imagined” in eco-friendly, but stylish ways. Some are combining traditional industrial materials, while others are employing reclaimed or recycled material to reduce their building costs and yet stay eco-friendly. It seems that cabin owners want what they always have pursued, an escape into the natural world.
Michelle Kodis, whose book “Modern Cabin” was published in 2007 commented for the article: “Given our busy, techno-heavy lives, people are seeking places where they can rejuvenate and connect to nature…They want simple, beautiful, indoor-outdoor cabins that require little upkeep and are free of fuss and heavy, overdone details.”
Tutelian quoted Dale Mulfinger, professor of architecture and author of “Cabinology: A Handbook to Your Private Hideaway” who said, “One of the biggest environmentally friendly trends we’re seeing is the use of local materials. Once you start shipping things long distance, that’s not so friendly — there’s the cost of shipping as well as the fuel costs.” In addition, Tutelian reported “the most eco-conscious of the new ‘cabinistas’ want to supply all of their own energy.”
Architect Jeff Shelden built a cabin in the Judith Mountains of central Montana in 1998 using only local or reclaimed materials. The wood and redwood decks were recycled from a nearby train trestle. Rock for the outside came from a local quarry, and Shelden was able to obtain free corrugated steel for the roof from a neighbor who was tearing up his barn, just for taking it off his hands. Tutelian reported that Shelden estimated the cost of the cabin at about $55,000, along with $1,700 to purchase a photovoltaic system to supply electricity and to pump water for a hot tub, making his utility bill is zero.
Surgeon Sam Snyder built a cabin in 2003 near Hudson, New York and said, “My No. 1 goal was to have a zero carbon footprint, and we accomplished that.” His cabin gets all the power it needs, including the supply for baseboard heat, from solar panels and a wind turbine on an 80-foot-high tower, along with a solar hot water system. Snyder, the ultimate eco-conscious cabinista, summed it all up when he said, “Every time I step outside and the wind is blowing and the sun is shining, I smile because I’m making all my own energy.”
