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Big Cottonwood Canyon Cabin Addition
Overview
The “Big Cottonwood Canyon Cabin Addition” project, featured on the Shadd Johnson Design website, represents a stunning 2,500-square-foot expansion that redefines mountain living in Salt Lake County, Utah. Designed by Shadd Johnson Design and built by Staten Quality Construction, the project demonstrates how thoughtful architectural planning can preserve a cabin’s original character while enhancing its functionality. As a result, the finished addition harmonizes with the rugged landscape while offering modern convenience and comfort.
Project Goals
Expand Living Space: Add 2,500 square feet to accommodate new functional areas without overwhelming the existing structure.
Preserve Natural Beauty: Design the addition to harmonize with the natural landscape and provide ample opportunities to enjoy the surrounding wildlife and scenery.
Enhance Functionality: Introduce a two-car garage, ski room, art studio, office, and master suite to meet the homeowners’ lifestyle needs.
Improve Accessibility: Create separate access to the office and art studio for clients without disturbing the main household.
Design and Implementation
Project Goals & Vision
- From the outset, the vision was clear. The homeowners wanted more space for both daily living and recreational activities; however, they also wanted to maintain the intimate mountain-cabin feel. In addition, the project included practical features such as a two-car garage, ski room, and basement half bath, while also providing lifestyle spaces like an art studio, office, and master suite. Consequently, the design needed to balance utility with creativity, blending structural expansion with personal expression..
Functional Layout & Access:
- The floor plan reflects this balance. The art studio and office feature their own private access, which ensures that visitors or clients can enter without disturbing the household. Furthermore, the second-floor master suite delivers privacy, while a front porch spanning the entire home establishes a direct connection to the outdoors. Therefore, every space was designed with both efficiency and enjoyment in mind.
Material Choices & Architectural Design:
- Equally important was the integration of materials that respected the cabin’s setting. Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring unifies the interior with style and durability. Moreover, exterior treatments inspired by mountain-modern design allow the addition to blend naturally into the canyon environment. As a result, the structure feels both timeless and fresh.
Key Features & Aesthetic Highlights:
- Inside, vaulted ceilings in the open living area create a dramatic sense of space. In addition, the basement “sky room” was designed specifically for ski gear, ensuring function meets lifestyle. Moreover, details like the historic wood-burning fireplace and expanded decks add warmth and encourage gathering. Consequently, the addition enhances both the practical and experiential aspects of cabin living.
Outcome & Legacy
Ultimately, the Big Cottonwood Canyon Cabin Addition exemplifies Shadd Johnson Design’s commitment to client-focused solutions. Despite challenges, the result is a multifunctional retreat that expands usability without losing identity. Therefore, the project stands as a lasting example of how architecture can elevate both form and function in a mountain setting.
