scaly mountain, nc : 2015

Nantahala Mountain Zen
“we were able to achieve a very special place with a modest budget through simple detailing and organization, the result is unexpected ”

The project is a small modern retreat in Scaly Mountain NC.  The project site is a steeply sloping 6 acre ridge parcel that borders the Nantahala National Forest mountain ranges.  The project is a modest 1000USF that is inspired by Japanese architecture and design.The planning goals were to embrace and engage the surrounding landscape, capitalizing on the 180 degree views of ridge line, treetops, and rock face; and to expand the square footage by merging interior space with exterior decks.  Spaces are designed to be multi-use and flexible.

The main living space is an open plan living/kitchen/dining area with reclaimed wide plank oak flooring ; the main focus is the window wall in the sitting area, and an 8 x 8' single panel sliding glass door that recesses into the wall.  The glass panel opens off the kitchen to a multi-use perch deck.  A large reclaimed wood and iron table rests over the kitchen island and easily rolls out to the perch deck for outdoor dining.  The STUV wood stove that can heat the entire house sits on a concrete pedestal in front of the side wall of the sitting area that is covered with reclaimed poplar. The wall opposing the view and ceilings are board and batten black stained pinethat are inspired by the japanese technique of sho sugi ban and balance well with the room's neutral color palate and saturation of natural light.

 The master and guest bedrooms include minimalist, Japanese inspired bedding, strategically placed windows, accent wall and vaulted ceilings of board and battend blacked stained pine, and reclaimed poplar accent walls.

The bathrooms include unique, custom steel storage pieces and glass showers with porcelain tile walls and floors.  The master bath includes a shower skylight and variable sizes and textures of warm gray porcelain tile.

The perch deck off the kitchen is open air, allowing full exposure to the surrounding rock face / mountain views and wildlife, while enjoying morning coffee or a meal.  The covered side deck includes a large sofa and modern porch swing, from which to enjoy the views and conversation around the gas fire pit, a great place to read a book or take an afternoon nap while enjoying the contemplative setting. The main living space is an open plan living/kitchen/dining area with reclaimed wide plank oak flooring ; the main focus is the window wall in the sitting area, and an 8 x 8' single panel sliding glass door that recesses into the wall.  The glass panel opens off the kitchen to a multi-use perch deck.  A large reclaimed wood and iron table rests over the kitchen island and easily rolls out to the perch deck for outdoor dining.  The STUV wood stove that can heat the entire house sits on a concrete pedestal in front of the side wall of the sitting area that is covered with reclaimed poplar. The wall opposing the view and ceilings are board and batten black stained pinethat are inspired by the japanese technique of sho sugi ban and balance well with the room's neutral color palate and saturation of natural light.

The master and guest bedrooms include minimalist, Japanese inspired bedding, strategically placed windows, accent wall and vaulted ceilings of board and battend blacked stained pine, and reclaimed poplar accent walls.

The bathrooms include unique, custom steel storage pieces and glass showers with porcelain tile walls and floors.  The master bath includes a shower skylight and variable sizes and textures of warm gray porcelain tile.

The perch deck off the kitchen is open air, allowing full exposure to the surrounding rock face / mountain views and wildlife, while enjoying morning coffee or a meal.  The covered side deck includes a large sofa and modern porch swing, from which to enjoy the views and conversation around the gas fire pit, a great place to read a book or take an afternoon nap while enjoying the contemplative setting.