Off-Grid Tennessee Micro Cabin Packs in High Design

This beautiful off-grid micro cabin in Tennessee is a contemporary update to the traditional lakeside <a href="http://inhabitat.com/the-signal-shed-a-modern-and-micro-prefab-cabin/">retreat</a>. The Cape Russell Retreat is a modestly-sized cabin that packs high design into a small residence that is completely <a href="http://inhabitat.com/wind-and-sun-powered-shipping-container-unfolds-into-traveling-cultural-exhibition/">independent</a> of the water and electrical grids. <a href="http://www.sanderspace.com/residential.php?id=22">Sander Pace Architecture</a>'s design features a steel frame, a butterfly roof, and a cedar and screened façade to provide shelter and all the creature comforts necessary for a relaxing weekend getaway.

The cabin began as a steel cube — the vertical cedar slats give it strength, and openings in the back wall add interest.

The verticality of the façade helps the cabin slip into the woods during the day.

At night light from the interior escapes through the silver openings

The other sides are simple screened-in frames that allow <a href="http://inhabitat.com/index.php?s=cooling">breezes</a> to enter and provide views of the lake and mountains beyond.

The entrance is a generous 8 x 8 foot rolling screen door, which is protected by a tall roof overhang to block sun and capture rain.

The butterfly roof is a simple solution that creates a perfect place to set a modest <a href="http://inhabitat.com/solar-power/">solar electric</a> array.

The roof also capture rainwater, which is treated with a carbon and UV filter and stored in a 400 gallon tank for drinking and washing in the outdoor shower.

The interior features all the creature comforts of a small kitchen, complete with a sink and refrigerator.

The cabin even has<a href="http://inhabitat.com/arizona-life-science-building-has-a-really-really-big-roof/paradise-valley-community-college-life-science-building-6/"> ceiling fans</a> to cut stagnant air on hot summer evenings.

At 176 square feet, the cabin is just large enough to provide all that is needed for a simple escape -- but nothing superfluous.

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