Seeing Clearly

Log cabins may epitomize traditional mountain-rustic architecture, but they were designed to keep the outside out. The last thing the owners of an empty lot near Tabernash wanted was to close off the property’s breathtaking down-valley views, so when they asked architect Harvey Hine of Boulder-based HMH Architecture + Interiors to help them render a “mountain cabin,” Hine ditched the typical wood trappings. Instead, the main living area is made of glass and full of light, perched above the trees with a deck for alfresco gazing. Interior touches like reclaimed hickory floors, a cowhide-style rug, and clean-lined leather chairs keep the space warm at night. And because the fireplace punctuates the window wall, the residents don’t ever have to choose between the indoor coziness of the hearth and the beauty of the great outdoors.