'cabana' by S3 architecture + upstate modernist

‘cabana’ by s3 architecture + upstate modernist

Perched on a forest cliff in Rhinebeck, New York, ‘Cabana’ is a modernist wooded retreat led by US-based practices S3 Architecture and Upstate Modernist. Described as ‘the perfect cantilevered respite,’ the 18.6 sqm structure effortlessly combines rustic materials with masculine and minimal interiors.

‘Cabana’ sits on the cliff edge supported by glulam beams tied back to footings pinned to the natural rock; the resulting subtle pitch in the roofline mirrors the natural topography and creates interior drama. Meanwhile, the porch overhang includes cutouts affording framed sky views from this woodland lookout.

all images © Ethan Abitz

combining rustic and muted finishes

For the exterior, S3 Architecture (see more here) and Upstate Modernist (and here) clad the ‘Cabana’ in black stained cedar with counterpoint natural, clear, and vertical grain cedar accents and black locust decking. Together, these elements blend seamlessly with the wooded landscape. Complementing the dark-toned facades is copious glazing that generously brings the outdoors in.

As for the interiors, high ceilings are paired with rustic and muted finishes to further echo the forested context. White oak rough sawn and UV oiled wood flooring ooze warmth and character, while porcelain grain tiling extends the wood theme to the entrance and bathroom. An upholstered bench seat with shoe cubbies is the perfect spot to knock off the mucky boots after an afternoon on the trails, and custom maker-made felled hemlock millwork is found in the bathroom vanity and bedroom furniture.

a modernist, cantilevered structure by S3 Architecture and Upstate Modernist

The kitchen appears as a wet bar but is highly functional with refrigerator, freezer, and dishwasher drawers, a Miele speed oven supporting both microwave and convection cooking, and just enough storage. Custom white oak oiled shelving balances out the Reform CPH black linoleum clad oak cabinetry which blends nicely with the Metaline porcelain tile of the backsplash and wraps around to form the firewood storage cubby.

Finally, the ‘open plan’ bathroom emotes forest spa vibes thanks to consistent hues of porcelain tiling on all surfaces with the custom hemlock vanity. ‘Shower inside or out to soak up the natural setting,’ adds the team.