Perched in the forested cliffs of Big Sur, California, Big Sur Cabin II replaces a previous cabin that was beyond repair, offering a model of thoughtful, site-sensitive design. The 1,194-square-foot home by Studio Schicketanz responds directly to the scale and character of the wooded surroundings, where the landscape once supported a logging economy centered on Nottley’s Landing. Today, the area has shifted from seasonal cabins to homes built for permanent occupancy, and this project demonstrates how contemporary design can respect both context and history.

The structure is organized into three distinct volumes – the great room, a bath pavilion, and the bedroom suite – each with its own private patio. This configuration separates functions while maintaining visual and spatial connections to the forest. The choice of materials reinforces this integration: all siding, wall paneling, and cabinetry are crafted from locally sourced reclaimed redwood, giving the home warmth and texture while echoing the region’s natural heritage.

Sustainability informed both materials and systems. The great room features a green roof with an edible garden, while the other volumes are capped with aluminum roofs designed for durability and low maintenance. A modern septic system protects the nearby creek from contamination, and underground power lines reduce risk from falling trees. Every element, from site planning to infrastructure, was considered to minimize environmental impact without compromising the home’s functionality or comfort.

Interior spaces emphasize clarity and connection to the outdoors. The great room serves as a central gathering space, open to light and views through floor-to-ceiling windows. The bath pavilion and bedroom suite are more private, but each maintains a relationship with the forest through dedicated patios. The use of redwood throughout provides a cohesive material language, linking interior and exterior while reflecting the surrounding woods.

The design balances presence and restraint. Volumes are clearly defined yet low in profile, allowing the home to sit naturally within the trees rather than dominate them. Patios and roof gardens extend living spaces into the landscape, and the overall plan respects the site’s slope and tree canopy. Big Sur Cabin II demonstrates how careful design choices – material selection, spatial organization, and environmental systems – can create a residence that is both practical and contextually appropriate.