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A Prefabricated, Off-Grid Cabin Project by Seven Rivers Design + Build
The Headwaters Prefab Cabins mark an important milestone for Seven Rivers Design + Build—our first fully prefabricated build following the commissioning of new European panelization equipment in Fall 2024.
During the cold, snowy month of January, we fabricated all floor, wall, and roof panels in our conditioned shop environment. This allowed the project to move forward efficiently despite winter weather—demonstrating one of the key advantages of prefab and panelized construction.
Once complete, the panels were transported to site and assembled with a crane. With foundations already in place, panel erection took only a few days. Because the wood siding was installed on the wall panels in the shop, the buildings were quickly enclosed—requiring only window installation and standing-seam roofing to achieve full dry-in.
This project became a powerful proof-of-concept for our prefab process, and the lessons learned will directly inform future Seven Rivers prefab and off-site construction work.
The project consists of two off-grid cabins, each approximately 800 square feet, connected by a shared breezeway and continuous roof form. This configuration draws from a historic southern Appalachian building type known as the Dogtrot House—where a central open porch channels summer breezes, creating a naturally cool gathering space.
Each cabin includes an open great room with a sleeping loft above, offering compact efficiency without sacrificing volume or light.
Situated on a steeply sloped site, the cabins are supported on concrete piers rather than continuous foundation walls. This approach minimizes site disturbance, reduces visual weight, and gives the structures a sense of elevation—allowing the buildings to sit lightly within the landscape.
The consistent use of Red Oak inside and out reinforces material continuity while celebrating regional sourcing and craftsmanship.
Both cabins operate entirely off-grid, powered by a large roof-mounted solar array with battery backup. The system supports modern comfort while aligning with the project’s low-impact, self-sufficient goals.
The Headwaters Prefab Cabins embody Seven Rivers Design + Build’s evolving approach to high-performance construction—combining traditional Appalachian forms, modern prefab methods, and off-grid systems into a cohesive, efficient whole. The result is a durable, place-based cabin project that honors regional history while pointing clearly toward the future of building.
