Minka In The Woods

Minka in the Woods is a compact “just big enough” home situated in Vermont’s Upper Connecticut River Valley. The client desired a new home that would explore the efficient use of space, begin as their second home and eventually become their primary residence. The net-zero ready house is designed to be budget conscious through its compact size, utilizes a high-efficiency boiler for heating, and an HRV to circulate fresh air with minimal thermal loss in the well-insulated structure.

The home features simple detailing and elegant natural materials, including vertical pine siding, maple floors, iron railings, and cherry cabinets. Due to its compact and efficient floor plan nearly all rooms benefit from abundant natural day lighting and a direct connection to the beautiful site. One of the client’s requests was to keep the amount of tree cutting on the site to an absolute minimum in order to preserve its numerous mature oak trees. A detached two-car garage creates an opportunity for the owners to interact with and appreciate the beauty of their surroundings on the short walk to their home.