Nordic Balsam Lake Cabin New
Nordic Cabin: Simple Forms, Rich Connections to Nature: The Nordic Cabin is a modern retreat designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings, inspired by Scandinavian simplicity, flexibility, and warmth. Set on a narrow lakeside lot bordered by a wetland, the cabin engages with the sloping topography to blend seamlessly into the landscape while maximizing views and minimizing its impact on neighbors.
The dark exterior, reminiscent of traditional Scandinavian barns, helps the cabin recede into the forest, while the warm, light-filled interior creates a welcoming environment for both quiet relaxation and lively family gatherings.
Site and Entry: When the owners acquired the property, they found an aging, musty cabin that had deteriorated beyond repair due to neglect and water damage. The site itself was overgrown, with dead trees and dense brush that needed careful clearing to restore its natural beauty.
The new cabin is thoughtfully set into the hillside, reducing its height and visual impact while providing an easy walk-out connection to the lake. Visitors can approach the cabin along a wildflower-lined path on the northeast side, which descends gently to a breezeway-like foyer that offers immediate views through the home to the lake beyond. This entry space also serves as a connector between the main living volume and the more private primary suite.
A second entry, located on the west-facing screened porch, provides direct access to the lake, ideal after a day spent on the water.
Living Spaces: The main living area is a tall, open-plan space designed for flexibility and natural light. Large windows on two sides frame views of the lake and forest, while a simple brick and board-and-batten fireplace wall anchors the space and conceals a staircase tucked behind it.
The ceiling is clad in textured plywood panels, adding warmth and character without overwhelming the space. Beneath the loft, the kitchen and dining area are compact but functional, with a 6-foot picture window that perfectly frames the surrounding woodland. A conveniently located laundry and three-quarter bath allow for easy cleanup after outdoor activities.
Private Spaces: Primary Suite and Loft: The private primary suite is located on the main floor, adjacent to the foyer, and continues the theme of simplicity and connection to nature. The bedroom is modest and serene, while the primary bath features nature-inspired materials and thoughtful details, such as recessed shelves and mirrors, and a walk-in shower with a valve placed at the entry for ease of use.
Upstairs, an open loft provides a secondary gathering space for family, away from the more public areas below. One bedroom is positioned at the end of the loft, with two-story glass on both sides offering sweeping views of the lake and forest.
An adjacent office space connects the remaining two upstairs bedrooms. The office features a long desk set beneath 12 feet of glass, creating a quiet, inspiring workspace immersed in the surrounding trees. The guest bath, designed for shared use, includes separate vanity and shower compartments to accommodate multiple users. A small built-in bench and window create yet another peaceful moment to enjoy the landscape.
Detached Garage and Future Guest Loft: The garage is designed as a smaller, complementary structure, mirroring the cabin’s simple form and dark exterior. Above the garage, a flexible space is reserved for a future guest loft, with tall windows that can easily be adapted to include an exterior door and staircase.
A Cabin Rooted in Place: The Nordic Cabin is a study in simplicity, texture, and thoughtful engagement with the landscape. Its clean, modest forms and warm, light-filled interiors create a timeless retreat that balances functionality and beauty. By connecting indoor spaces to the natural surroundings and using durable, understated materials, the cabin provides a sense of calm and connection for the owners and their guests, whether they are gathered in the loft, relaxing by the lake, or working quietly in the treetop office.
Project Team:
Architect: Rick Lundin AIA Lundin Architects LLC
Structural Engineer: Dave Wagner PE and Daniel Kopchinski, PE A.M. Structural Engineering
Contractor: Valley Custom Homes
Photography: Farm Kid Studio
Photo Stylist: Jhna Lundin