CAMPout by Faulkner Architects – Sustainable Mountain Retreat in Lake Tahoe

Nestled on a north-facing slope near Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, CAMPout by Faulkner Architects redefines the concept of a forest retreat. Commissioned by a San Francisco family seeking an expanded connection to nature, the 3,800 ft² residence harmoniously integrates with its stunning surroundings—overlooking Martis Valley and framed by 100-year-old Jeffrey pines and Lookout Mountain.

Unlike typical architecture driven solely by aesthetics, CAMPout prioritizes context, climate resilience, and material integrity. The design responds directly to the wildfire-prone Sierra Nevada environment. Limited glazing faces combustible forest edges, while courtyard-facing windows maximize natural light safely.

The home’s layout is carefully dug into the slope, with sleeping areas wrapping around a central courtyard, providing both privacy and intimate connection to nature. A concrete pavilion serves as the main family gathering space, opening to southern sunlight and panoramic mountain views. The pitched steel shed roof and clerestory windows enhance light penetration and create a seamless visual connection between interior and landscape.

Materiality and sustainability are central to CAMPout’s design. Concrete walls with foam insulation, steel sash tempered windows, and basalt flooring form a durable, fire-resistive envelope. Inside, unfinished native cedar and blackened steel casework echo the natural tones and textures of the surrounding forest. Furnishings share the same material palette, reinforcing a quiet, contemplative atmosphere that lets the landscape take center stage.

CAMPout exemplifies resilient mountain architecture in the era of climate change. By using non-combustible materials, strategic massing, and thoughtful site integration, it demonstrates how modern homes can embrace beauty, safety, and environmental responsibility.

All Photographs are works of Joe Fletcher