Chicken Point Cabin by Olson Kundig Architects
Olson Kundig Architects designed the Chicken Point Cabin in a rural area of Northern Idaho.
The idea for the cabin is that of a lakeside shelter in the woods—a little box with a big window that opens to the surrounding landscape. The cabin’s big window-wall (30 feet by 20 feet) opens the entire living space to the forest and lake.
The design concept is composed of basically three parts: a concrete block box with a plywood insert and a 4-foot diameter steel fireplace (the bong). Materials are low maintenance—concrete block, steel, concrete floors and plywood—in keeping with the notion of a cabin, and left unfinished to naturally age and acquire a patina that fits in with the natural setting. Open interior spaces are intended to be a seamless extension to the natural setting. A 19-foot tall steel entry door can accommodate long skis.
The cabin sleeps ten.
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Photography © Benjamin Benschneider
Chicken Point Cabin Project Credits
Architect: Olson Kundig Architects
Project Team: Tom Kundig, FAIA, design principal; Steven Rainville, project architect; Debbie Kennedy, interior designer
Consultants: Turner Exhibits (gizmo fabricator and engineer); Monte Clark Engineering (structural engineering); Moser, Inc. (design/build mechanical system)
Craftspeople: All New Glass (big window); Star Steel (steel structure, bong); Steve Clark (table fabricator, cabinets, beds)
Contractor: MC Construction
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kastatelier on 20 May 2010 at 8:08 am #
what is “the bong ” means ?? and the wheel looks like a nice contraptions to mee.
tom on 20 May 2010 at 9:12 am #
By “the bong” they are referring to the fireplace that goes from the first floor all the way through the roof. Unfortunately, none of the pictures that contemporist provided show it and completely miss out on how the architect created the fireplace as almost a central area around which secondary rooms branch out. The fireplace even has steel rungs that function as a ladder that comes up to a pseudo-third floor loft.
Josh Urso Design on 20 May 2010 at 9:28 am #
Would like to see what actually happens to the structure as it is allowed to “naturally age” and “acquire a patine.” We love the aesthetic of the chosen materials (concrete, steel, and plywood) but wonder how they will function over time in the wooded, lakeside, and presumably quite damp environment.
Sara on 20 May 2010 at 9:42 am #
Goodness gracious I want this house.
I live in Idaho and was proud to see someone built this in my state…so beautiful!
steve on 20 May 2010 at 9:51 am #
I’m guessing that opening that big window/door might let in a lot of bugs and mosquitoes…especially by the lake. nice concept though.
Arcadio Naranjo on 20 May 2010 at 11:01 am #
The project goes beyond the predictable. I find it interesting the poetics behind the artifact, of that which is produced by man. I refer to the knowhow and the engineering or mechanical aspects of the project. They play a central role in it and enrich the design. There is something about the imagination embodied that I really liked and enjoyed.
The main interior spatial scale harmonizes with the landscape. I would have liked to see the fireplace.
I am please to see how we can rediscover or reinvent, or play and create with joy when looking at this project.
Sash on 20 May 2010 at 9:51 pm #
Absolutely love it! The contrast of industrial look and feel and the peaceful natural environment is just stunning. Great choice of materials, shapes and forms and wonderful mechanical details. The view towards the lake with the large open window looks almost surreal. Yes, I can imagine a ‘bug problem’ with the window being open, but there is traps and lights available which should take care of that.
TW on 21 May 2010 at 12:32 am #
Another perfect small house designed to talk to the landscape.
And beautifully BEAUTIFULLY detailed.
Lance on 21 May 2010 at 2:28 am #
Simply spectacular. The pulley system for the wall of windows is pure architectural art. And I agree with TW, the house compliments the surroundings and doesn’t compete against it like so many other homes do. Bravo!
woof on 21 May 2010 at 3:54 am #
The major wall opening is actuated by hand crank only and uses a centrifugal brake to slow down as it closes. Quite brilliant.
Stu on 21 May 2010 at 7:27 am #
Tom Kundig is one of the great residential architects of our time. This project is actually several years old. For those interested, there is a great book titled “Tom Kundig Houses” which features this project in much greater detail in addition to a number of Kundig’s other projects which I highly recommend.
KDS on 21 May 2010 at 12:13 pm #
Wowsers. Love this place, too. Feels like a cross between a boat house and Pierre Chareau’s Maison de Verre. I could play with all the sliding, tilting things for hours. Love the floating stair box, too.
I think that the bugs and the occasional dampness would just be part of the cabin experience. I do wonder, however, if on gloomy days all the concrete block would make things feel a bit like the inside of a warehouse.
Janna Williamson on 24 May 2010 at 2:32 pm #
I grew up on Hayden Lake. I must say, Tom, it’s a treat to see such amazing architecture incorporated into north Idaho. Looking forward to seeing it in person over the weekend.
Alima on 01 Jun 2010 at 12:09 am #
Lovely concept.
Sara on 15 Jun 2010 at 8:39 pm #
COOL
Vik on 09 Jul 2010 at 8:28 am #
What’s the cost of this kind of house? It’s a really a lovely place to live.
Dorene Russell on 13 Jul 2010 at 9:03 am #
I grew up on this lake and this home is definitely a contrast from the usual “cabin”. I must say however that it is refreshing and takes full advantage of the view and setting.
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If you ever want to sell it I would LOVE to represent you!
If someone else would like a home on the lake look me up.
Dorene
Realtor
Hayden Lake and Coeur d’Alene Lake, Idaho
Zoé Beaulieu on 02 Oct 2010 at 9:19 am #
Hi my name is Zoé Beaulieu and I’m an architect student at chicoutimi in Québec. I write to you, beacause first I love this window door and second, I have a project to do and my concept is an Swivelling panel and I search every where to know how I can do this… And I foud you
It’s why I want your help to inform me with the macanic of this amazing concept and the price? Thank you very much (:
zOé beaulieu