Sanders Pace Architecture Llc

Cape Russell Retreat

Cape Russell Retreat
© Jeffrey Jacobs

CAPE RUSSELL RETREAT

Sanders Pace Architecture

ARCHITECTS
Sanders Pace Architecture

PHOTOGRAPHS
Jeffrey Jacobs

AREA
16.3 m2

YEAR
2009

LOCATION
United States

CATEGORY
Houses

Text description provided by architect.

The owners commissioned the architect to design and coordinate construction of an off-the-grid lakeside pavilion with integrated water reclamation and photovoltaic technology for weekend use.

Cape Russell Retreat
© Jeffrey Jacobs
Cape Russell Retreat
© Jeffrey Jacobs

A lightweight steel structure was chosen for durability and ease of fabrication. This structure was shop fitted with tabs to allow for the attachment of a secondary skin.

In developing this skin the desire for transparency coupled with a passive cooling approach led to a shop fabricated structural screen of 2x4 vertical cedar boards backed with insect screen.

Cape Russell Retreat
© Jeffrey Jacobs
Cape Russell Retreat
© Jeffrey Jacobs

Structural blocking located between the vertical structure lends a delicate pattern to the structural skin camouflaging the structure within its densely wooded setting.

Towards the water view the cedar skin dissolves and becomes a series of screen panels allowing unobstructed views to the water and mountains beyond. A single 8’x8’ sliding screen panel provides direct access to the water.

Cape Russell Retreat
© Jeffrey Jacobs
Cape Russell Retreat
© Jeffrey Jacobs

Additionally the cedar screen provides the structure for the butterfly roof above that directs and delivers rainwater to a collection cistern located beside the structure. An internal charcoal filter and ultraviolet light treat the water for potable use.

Rooftop mounted photovoltaic cells provide the necessary power to run the water pump, refrigeration, fans and lighting providing for a truly independent overnight living situation.

Cape Russell Retreat
© Jeffrey Jacobs


Cape Russell Retreat
Wall detail
Cape Russell Retreat
Elevations & Sections


Cape Russell Retreat
Floor plan
Cape Russell Retreat
Exploded axo

Sanders Pace Architecture Llc
T +1 865 3290316 -
Sanders Pace Architecture Llc
514 West Jackson Ave,Knoxville, Tennessee 37902, United States