The Story Behind Skaam Cabin’s Unique Design
Skaam Cabin is not just another prefab or golf estate house casually placed in the middle of nature. The architectural style of Skaam Cabin is rooted in “biophilic design” or “sustainable architecture,” emphasizing harmony with the environment and prioritizing sustainability. This approach involves the use of recycled, repurposed, and locally sourced materials to reduce the environmental footprint.
Here’s how these principles are reflected in the cabin’s design:
Earth Architecture:
This approach includes the use of natural, recycled, or locally sourced materials such as mud, clay, stone, and reclaimed wood. Earth architecture seeks to integrate structures seamlessly into their natural surroundings, using materials that minimize environmental impact.Minimalist or Eco-modern Design:
While the aesthetics are modern, eco-modern design focuses on using sustainable materials like reclaimed wood, glass, and metal. It also emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and cohesion with nature.
Designing with Sustainability in Mind
The design brief for Skaam Cabin was specific in its focus on style, but the choice of materials depended heavily on availability. Initially, the plan centered around using reclaimed Oregon pine floorboards, treated in the Japanese “Shou Sugi Ban” technique, for the exterior cladding. However, the realities of sustainable construction required constant adaptation, especially in the wake of challenges like a massive bushfire and unpredictable weather patterns caused by climate change.
What emerged was a creative, adaptive approach to construction, integrating sustainable and reclaimed materials in innovative ways. Below is an overview of the key materials used:
Oregon Pine Floorboards for Wall Cladding
Reclaimed Oregon pine was charred using the Shou Sugi Ban method to enhance its strength, fire resistance, and durability. This process also repels insects and prevents rot, significantly extending the lifespan of the structure. The wood will also patina over time, further blending the structure into the surrounding landscape. A separate blog will explore the challenges and lessons learned during this process, as it was far from straightforward.
Minimal Use of Concrete
Concrete was used sparingly. Retaining walls and rock cladding are all dry stacked, eliminating the need for concrete. When required, sand and rock were sourced directly from the surrounding landscape to blend the cement seamlessly into the natural environment. Even the rock cladding was applied without concrete, ensuring minimal impact on the ecosystem.
Rejected Steel Flat Sheets
Rejected steel sheets were repurposed for roofing and shrouds around windows and doors. Left to rust and then treated to halt further corrosion, these sheets not only reduced waste but also helped the structure blend harmoniously into the landscape. They were also sculpted into artistic shrouds, adding privacy and protection from the elements.
Steel Mentis Gratings
Decommissioned steel gratings were reused as walkways, connecting different parts of the cabin while minimizing environmental disruption. Unlike traditional paths, these gratings allow sunlight to reach the ground, promoting the growth of flora beneath. They also protect delicate ecosystems by preventing erosion.
Repurposed Steel I-Beams
These I-beams, originally intended for cancelled infrastructure projects, were repurposed for structural elements. Since they were pre-treated, this eliminated the need for additional toxic coatings, reducing the project’s overall environmental impact.
Used Wood Beams and Decking
Large quantities of reclaimed hardwood were used for construction, interior furnishings, decking, and cladding. This significantly reduced the carbon footprint and helped combat deforestation.
Bamboo Flooring
Reclaimed bamboo flooring from a gym and a property renovation was used throughout the cabin. Offcuts were repurposed into an end-grain kitchen countertop, and the remaining scraps were crafted into cutting boards that will be sold to guests.
Geohex Erosion Control System
Made from recycled plastic, the Geohex system was used in the driveway to prevent erosion and stabilize the terrain. This eco-friendly alternative to concrete and asphalt reduced the project’s carbon footprint while ensuring long-term durability.
Marine Ply Crates
Shipping crates made of resin-coated marine ply were repurposed for sub-walls and sub-floors. This eliminated the need for chemically treated alternatives, reducing environmental and chemical impacts.
Recycled Bricks
The cabin incorporated 3,000 rejected bricks that would otherwise have ended up in landfills. By repurposing these bricks, the project minimized the environmental impact of brick production and waste.
Network Cable Trays
Perhaps the most innovative feature was the use of network cable trays as gabion baskets for rock cladding and reinforcement in concrete structures. This unique application tied the design harmoniously into the surrounding landscape.
Lessons in Sustainability
The Skaam Cabin project taught us many valuable lessons about sustainable construction. While building green is not necessarily cheaper, it’s undoubtedly more rewarding. Every material and method chosen was guided by a commitment to reduce environmental impact, creating a structure that coexists with the landscape while embodying the principles of sustainability.
Stay tuned for more insights and tips in future blog posts as we continue to share the lessons learned from this groundbreaking project.
Experience the Unique Design
Skaam Cabin is more than just a getaway—it’s a celebration of sustainable living, creative design, and a deep connection to nature. Immerse yourself in the serenity of the mountains, surrounded by a space that reflects harmony with the environment. Whether you’re seeking a romantic retreat or simply a moment of peace, Skaam Cabin offers a truly unique experience.
Book your stay now and witness firsthand how sustainable design can enhance your connection with nature while leaving a lighter footprint on the planet.