This woodland retreat was designed as an inviting writer’s refuge by Gale Goff Architect, located in Little Compton, a coastal town in Newport County, Rhode Island. The scope of this project entailed a writer’s retreat fashioned from the existing RV barn on the back of this woodland cabin property. The sheer volume of this simple board and batten structure was the perfect stage set for intimate moments and grand expressions of space.

Two new additions, one major, and the other minor, create both a sense of entry and engagement with the garden. The custom fir and steel trusses emphasize the height and visually delineate the activity spaces within. The steel detailed stucco chimney and schist hearth grounds the space and add an internal focus. The monumental openings strategically pierce the exterior walls for intended views into the wooded landscape.

DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECT Gale Goff Architect BUILDER Dennis Talbot Construction

The sunroom with glass corners and glass sliding doors can almost transform into a screen porch in season, blurring the distinction between the inside and outside worlds. Interior detailing employs the use of voids and reveals, instead of the addition of typical moldings.

What We Love: This woodland retreat is inspired by a vision for a writer’s escape in the woods with some architectural creativity and fine-aged craftsmanship. We are loving all of the details in this home, especially the fabulous indoor/outdoor connection thanks to expansive walls of glazing. The cozy yet open design perfectly complements its natural surroundings, creating an ideal sanctuary for reflection and inspiration.

Tell Us: Would this be your idea of the ultimate escape in the woods? Let us know why or why not in the Comments below!

Note: Check out a couple of other amazing home tours that we have highlighted here on One Kindesign in the state of Rhode Island: See the remarkable transformation of a beach barn house on Block Island and An impressive beach house in Rhode Island built to withstand storms.

PHOTOGRAPHER Anthony Crisafulli