Northstar Ski Camp - Dennis E. Zirbel, Architect
- Nov 30, 2024
- 1 min read
Updated: Nov 21, 2025
Dennis E. Zirbel, Architect created a “Camp” feel with one structure, appearing to look like several cabins, with multiple ridges with gable ends. It was a challenging lot with a steep slope and tight budget.
Old Tahoe detailing, beveled siding, board and batt siding, steep roofs with minimal roof eaves and overhangs. The unique design with its multiple gables, minimal eaves/overhangs is not what you typically see these days. It is a contemporary example of the historical Tahoe architectural style.
Sustainable? Always! They minimized the footprint and amount of grading. Only 1 tree was removed, and they designed around the rest. Efficient mechanical system, over insulated, used engineered framing members and reclaimed interior wood.
Designed on budget? Definitely! They designed a fairly simple form and minimized the amount of roof area and required support. At the entry columns and interior fireplaces they used metal siding as a base instead of stone (more expensive). They used the structural concrete base as the finished floor for the entry level. This also proved to be more environmentally friendly as they did not have to introduce another flooring material.
