Spruce Ridge Cabin Balsam Mountains, NC

Nestled 5,700 ft. above sea level in North Carolina’s Balsam Mountains, the Spruce Ridge Cabin was strategically constructed deep within the evergreen forest to minimize the impact on this fragile ecosystem, neatly conceal the cabin within its surroundings and maximize the forest’s beauty.

So successful were the design and concept, the project earned its creators, the Altura Architects of Asheville, North Carolina, the Architizer A+Awards 2023 Popular Choice Winner. The honor promotes and nurtures “the appreciation of meaningful architecture in the world and champion those designers that are integral to bringing great buildings to life. ¹

The design concept began with an exterior palette emulating the colors of the red spruce forest. Two cantilevered forms are clad in cedar siding and vertical lines are used throughout to reinforce the rhythm of the surrounding trees. A dark pine tar stain complements the tone of the tree bark while the base and central connector of the cabin are finished with a cement plaster, tinted to blend with the granite rock outcroppings. emotional transition, further separating the cabin from civilization.

The dense evergreen forest can feel dark at times, so the interior spaces are wrapped in birch to provide a warm and light interior. Unified wood tones in the cabinets, flooring, and furniture keep the interior palette calm, despite the motion of woodgrain, and also allows the textures of the forest views to be the focus. A wall of folding doors opens the main living spaces to the screen porch to the south, reinforcing the cabin’s strong connection to the forest.

The entire concept was the brought together by Weather Shield’s Contemporary Collection of windows and patio doors. Highlights specifically chosen for the Cabin were a Jet black aluminum exterior and a natural pine interior, which created a striking contrast between the home’s façade that lies neatly hidden among the dark, forested woods and a bright, boldly-lit interior that contrasts magnificently with the evening’s blackness. Items chosen from the Collection included a unit of jet black 90°-degree corner window, direct sets, casement, awning and a bi-fold patio door showcased within the home with floor to ceiling glass.

Durable and low maintenance, the Contemporary Collection’s clad exterior also bears the elements by never needing to be painted, while its rot-resistant composition was specially-developed to resist dents, dings, scratches and decay. Other great enduring features include the ability to withstand severe weather conditions as well as a wide variety of energy-efficient Zo-e-shield® glazing and ENERGY STAR®-rated options designed to protect interiors from UV rays, while also reducing energy costs.

Ideal for the avid outdoorsman and environmentalist, the Contemporary Collection beautifully supports the look & feel of modern-farmhouse, traditional or even ultra-modern homes that prioritize preservation and the environment with the necessities needed to create a comfortable retreat meant to foster a meaningful relationship with the environment.

The master of intelligent window and door designs, Weather Shield does this by pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with a wide range of high-end products that exude artistry and engineering excellence.

To learn more, check out our Contemporary Collection, locate your nearest Weather Shield dealer. or call us directly at 800-538-8836.

Image Courtesy of Keith Isaacs Photography