On a 63-acre apple orchard located east of I-29 among the Loess Hills of western Iowa, this 1,200-square foot retreat offers a sparking view of the Missouri River valley below. A simple roof line tops a structure taking inspiration from the surrounding natural habitat, with ceiling beams extending upward from the center, using knife plates embedded in the cross beams creating a look of a tree and its branches.  The result expands the windows to frame the views from the inside out, creating visual tension.  Corrugated metal panels, concrete siding, a structurally insulated panel with 10 inches of foam, and a rain-screen cladding system built with recycled wood siding from an existing barn make up the exterior and confirm the environmental sustainability of this retreat. 

The interior is open and warm, offering a unique feel and texture with birch plywood walls and wood floors over a radiant heating system, and incorporates indirect lighting and fixtures concealed from direct view to prevent interior illumination from overpowering the exterior panorama.