Arched Cabin Compound - Property Details

→ View Visual Site Layout

The Land

Location: San Luis Valley, Colorado

Size: 5 acres

Elevation: ~8,000 feet

Climate: 250+ sunny days per year, extreme temperature swings

Water Table: 150-250 feet (typical for region)

Compound Layout

The compound features a unique octagonal courtyard design with four arched cabin buildings arranged in a cross pattern:

Buildings

• Main House: 24' x 32' (768 sq ft) - Primary living space
• Cabin 1: 14' x 24' (336 sq ft) - Guest quarters
• Cabin 2: 14' x 24' (336 sq ft) - Workshop/Studio
• Cabin 3: 14' x 24' (336 sq ft) - Office/Storage
• Total Living Space: 1,776 square feet

Central Courtyard

• Octagonal wooden deck (10 feet wide)
• Green space in center for gathering/fire pit
• Protected from wind, maximizes solar exposure
• All buildings face inward toward courtyard

Site Features

• 4 parking spaces positioned between buildings
• Each cabin has 6-8 foot front porch
• Main house has larger porch area
• Buildings positioned for optimal sun exposure
• Compact footprint leaves most of 5 acres natural

Infrastructure Systems

Water

• Deep well (200+ feet) with pressure tank
• Alternative: Rainwater collection system (5,000 gallon)
• PEX plumbing to all buildings

Power

• 5kW solar array (16 panels)
• Battery bank for night/cloudy days
• Backup generator option
• All buildings on same electrical system

Waste

• 1,500 gallon septic tank with drain field
• Alternative: Composting toilets in each building
• Greywater system for irrigation

Heating

• Wood stoves in main house and each cabin
• Propane backup for cooking and emergency heat
• Radiant insulation in arched roofs (R33.6)

Building Construction

All buildings use Arched Cabins LLC pre-fabricated kits:

• Curved steel ribs (2"x2" tubing)
• Metal roof sheeting
• Superior snow load capacity
• Quick assembly (2-3 days per building with help)
• Minimal foundation requirements
• Unique aesthetic, highly efficient design

Project Goals

1. Energy Independence: 100% solar-powered compound
2. Water Security: Reliable well or rainwater system
3. Flexible Living: Multiple buildings for guests, work, storage
4. Minimal Environmental Impact: Small footprint, preserve natural land
5. Year-Round Capability: Systems designed for harsh winters
6. Cost-Effective: $60/sq ft vs. $150+ for traditional construction

Design allows phased construction - start with main house, add cabins as budget allows.