2023

Design : Colin Clark, Jenna Hill

Images : Heia Studio

Designed for construction with standard lumber, conventional stick-built framing techniques, and concrete pile foundations, Retreat 001 is adaptable to a wide array of terrains and locations. Serving as a serene getaway from the urban environment, it offers a tranquil backdrop for gatherings of family and friends, fostering connections with the natural landscape. Retreat 001 consists of two separate structures connected by a sun deck, which strikes the perfect balance between providing a separation of spaces and promoting communal interactions. The sun deck acts as more than just a passageway; it serves as a dynamic space for relaxation and socializing, providing breathtaking views of the surroundings. This configuration ensures ample opportunities for solitude and introspection while maintaining a sense of togetherness and shared experiences.

The seeds of this project began during the pandemic when we were missing spending time with family and friends, and getting out into nature was a refuge from the anxieties of the city. We designed the project in stops and starts throughout 2022 and 2023 in between our client commitments. Though this design could work on any site, we have depicted it here in a dreamy grassland reminiscent of the prairies of our childhood.