Tinyleaf by GO’C

Nestled in the side of a hill in Mazama, Washington, Tinyleaf by GO’C is a remarkable retreat within the picturesque landscape of the Methow Valley.

Featuring dramatic views, this small cabin embraces its environment with a design that is both innovative and in tune with the natural surroundings. Briefed to create a compact yet functional cabin, GO’C draws inspiration from minimalist approaches and encourages constant engagement with the landscape. The modest footprint ensures each element within is crafted to maximise space while maintaining a strong aesthetic appeal. Prioritising a connection to the outdoors, landscaped areas immediately adjacent to the cabin serve to expand living spaces during warmer seasons.

The modest footprint ensures each element within is crafted to maximise space while maintaining a strong aesthetic appeal.

With a south-facing facade, the line between interior and exterior is blurred with glazed sliding doors that extend the cabin and direct the eye to breathtaking views. Southern glazing allows for low winter sunlight to enter the space, while a flat roof provides additional outdoor living space in warmer months. Heat is again considered through the use of concrete for the exterior, blending its practical advantages with the natural topography, anchoring the cabin in place.

Exterior materials of concrete and steel further embed the cabin into the hillside. The earthy tones reflect surrounding rocky outcrops, while steel cladding and awnings will develop a rich patina. This intentional ageing process encourages seamless integration, fostering a deep connection between the built form and environment.

The earthy tones reflect surrounding rocky outcrops, while steel cladding and awnings will develop a rich patina.

Internally, the design adopts a simple yet refined palette, featuring timber throughout to create cabinetry and maximise flexibility. Concealed storage solutions are cleverly integrated, ensuring the small footprint is utilised to its fullest potential. A compact kitchen, bathroom and bedroom are all arranged for maximum efficiency while remaining delightfully detailed. Light makes its way to the rear of the space through a skylight, casting a gentle glow within. Shared storage volumes discreetly delineate spaces, with an elevated bed also used as additional storage. The design pushes and pulls the interior, extending features such as pull-out side panels from the wall separating the kitchen and bathroom, providing storage to one side and backed by bathroom storage on the other. While tightly planned, moments of rest are also prioritised, evidenced in the cosy reading nook.

In such a small project as Tinyleaf, GO’C has mastered a delicate balancing act, embodying the essence of compact living to combine practicality, contained luxury and ecological responsibility. All of this creates a thoughtful residence completely in tune with its rugged surroundings.

Architecture and interior design by GO’C.