Situated at New York's Wildwood State Park, this project reimagines the classic state park cabin for modern adventurers while paying homage to its Depression-era predecessors.
The project demanded a delicate balance. We needed to create affordable vacation lodging that would complement the park's historic 1930s WPA cabins while satisfying contemporary expectations for comfort and sustainability.
Our vision came to life through ten thoughtfully designed cabins that range from 670 to 784 square feet. Each structure features soaring ceilings and strategically placed windows that create diagonal cross-ventilation, transforming these woodland retreats into natural air conductors. The exterior palette – cedar shingles, reclaimed mahogany trim, and metal roofing – ensures these newcomers will age gracefully alongside their historic neighbors, eventually achieving a distinguished silver patina.
Inside, the spaces embrace a "less is more" philosophy that proves more luxurious than austere. Unfinished natural wood walls and floors eliminate the need for paint while providing a warm backdrop for flexible living spaces. Sliding barn doors transform bedrooms into gathering areas, while built-in beds double as seating—the kitchen windows at counter height help turn meal prep into a nature-viewing opportunity.
WXY worked closely with New York State Parks to create cabins that balance contemporary design with historical context. The collaboration ensures the cabins harmonize with existing structures while providing a model adaptable for use across other state campgrounds.
These cabins represent more than just overnight accommodation. They're a blueprint for accessible wilderness experiences across New York State parks. The design maintains the rugged spirit of camping while offering the comfort people expect.
“We wanted to have a dialogue with the past, but not try to recreate it. It's a prototype that will go into parks where other cabins from the past already exist, and they need to harmonize together.
”— Angelyn Chandler, deputy commissioner for capital programs, New York State Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation
Keywords
- Community
- Recreation
- Affordability
Type
- Civic Buildings
- Interiors
Awards
Excellence in Architecture Award, Chicago Athenaeum
Excelsior Awards Award of Distinction, AIA New York State
Award of Honor, Society of Registered Architects New York