Overlooking Pemaquid Pond in southern Maine, this "cabin" is built to not only fit in, but also to thrive in its earthy environment. Designed by sustainability-focused firm BRIBURN, the structure is mostly constructed from wood, with a polished concrete slab on the first floor for "thermal mass." Beyond the simple appeal of light-flooded rooms with mind-clearing woodsy views, the house also comes with a host of design features that prepare it for all of nature's forces. The vegetated roof, for example, can absorb one inch of storm water, as well as regulate the home's temperature during the summer. An expansive overhang and brise-soleil provide strategic sun-shading, deflecting high-angled summer sun and welcoming in low-angled winter sun. There is also a 90-tube solar collector array that can power all of the home's hot water needs and half of its space heating.
· House on Pemaquid Pond [Architizer]