Loggerheads is Burton’s ongoing experiment in low cost, environmentally-friendly construction. The wooded mountainside site with a rock ledge and western views, was left intact by clearing only areas needed for septic, well, driveway, and equipment circulation. The 1,300 square foot house combines a simple plan and rational section to create a dramatic structure. An 86 degree angled wall with a mitered glass corner window and wraparound flower box sets up a ‘venturi’ effect to the western view. The interior creates a big fun open space to feature large works of art.

The anchoring structural system is a hybrid of timber framing, standard framing, and concrete block shear corners to handle the high winds. The oak timbers were cut on site, using a portable mill. Other materials featured are cantilevered concrete and oyster shell shelves, plywood cabinets, cork bathroom floor, metal and wood hand rails, and a ground face concrete block inlay for firewood storage.

Recycled doors and windows were used to study a variety of opening strategies. Other amenities are indirect lighting, a radiant slate kitchen floor, a hinged stair boot storage area, and an Austrian wood cook stove.

Design build team:
Jon Duvall
Jeff Densic
Ty Gore
David Craig