This off-the-grid island camp was designed with plenty of creature comforts by Winkelman Architecture, located on a woodsy property in Oxford County, Maine. The camp is situated on a secluded 3.2-acre private island on the serene, less-developed end of an Oxford County pond. The island is heavily wooded with majestic old-growth oak trees and boasts sweeping panoramic views of the pond.

An existing camp was situated on the site, allowing to rebuild to be a 60-foot setback from the shore. Utilizing a small clearing near the camp, construction proceeded while preserving the majestic old-growth trees that dotted the landscape. Given the island’s remote location, the new camp was designed to be entirely off the grid. Due to the location of the island, all construction materials and builders themselves had to travel to the island by boat.

DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECT Winkelman Architecture BUILDER H B Wood Co. STRUCTURAL ENGINEER Albert Putnam Associates

The owners desired a compact 1,700 square-foot camp, which includes screened porches and a loft bedroom to comfortably house their family of four along with overnight guests. Also on the property is an overflow platform tent for extra sleeping accommodations when needed.

The design was separated into small “pods” connected by porches. One pod comprises a one-and-half-story sleeping area with a main-level bedroom, loft bedroom, full bath, and storage. An entry porch connects this pod to the kitchen/living pod. Adjacent to the kitchen/living pod is a spacious screened-in porch offering expansive views of the pond.

Designed for versatility, the porch can be partially enclosed with folding glass panels to protect it from adverse weather conditions. Additionally, the bedroom pod can be seasonally closed off, and custom-built futons and a high loft provide extra sleeping options near a soapstone wood stove.

So as not to detract from the natural beauty of the wooded site, the camp was created to harmonize with its surroundings. Situated on the quieter side of the pond, great care was taken to ensure the building remained discreet and transparent, shielding it from view and light intrusion.

Drawing inspiration from modest Scandinavian camps known for seamlessly blending into nature, the design prioritized craftsmanship, with meticulous attention to detail in every finish. Shed roofs were strategically employed to frame and enhance views of the water and forest while inviting ample natural light into the interior spaces.

Not wanting to detract from the beauty of the wooded site the camp was designed to blend in with the surroundings. Because the island is located on the less developed end of the pond the clients and design team were very sensitive to making sure the building was screened from view and light and transparent.

The inspiration for camp was found in modest Scandinavian camps that blended into the natural surroundings. The building is highly crafted, with every finish being carefully selected. Shed roofs were used to focus and open the views out towards the water and woods and flood the spaces with natural light.

The builder, Henry Banks, sourced southern yellow pine timbers from a dismantled Maine paper mill which were milled to size for roof framing and select woodwork, revealing the beauty of the reclaimed wood.

A select number of oak trees were cleared for the new camp as well as to create a small clearing to provide adequate sun on a small shed with solar hot water and solar electric panels on a pivoting roof (to seasonally optimize the sun angle) and these trees were also milled on-site with a portable sawmill, this wood was used for some interior finished as well furniture.

The design goal for the exterior siding was to mimic the feel and color of bark so hand-split cedar shakes were used to provide texture and a semi-transparent charcoal gray stain was used. To blur the boundary between the interior and exterior the same cedar shake siding was carried into the interior, creating a seamless transition between the two spaces.

What We Love: This off-the-grid camp provides the owners and their guests with a wonderful escape for enjoying the wilderness and water activities. The living spaces provide an indoor-outdoor living experience to enjoy fresh summer breezes and and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. With its thoughtful design and serene location, this retreat offers a perfect balance of comfort and connection with nature.

Tell Us: What are your thoughts on the design of this Maine getaway? Let us know in the Comments below!

Note: Be sure to check out a couple of other amazing home tours that we have highlighted here on One Kindesign in the state of Maine: Get inspired by this inviting Maine beach cottage with an industrial vibe and A modern shingle-style home rests peacefully on the Maine coast.

PHOTOGRAPHER Jeff Roberts