Modern Cottage

The exterior features vertical, untreated cedar panels. “We tried to use materials that are beautiful in their natural state without excessive treatment or finishing,” Pavonetti says.

Mountain Tree House in the North Georgia Mountains; Architects: Mack Scogin Merrill Elam Architects

While you’re there, make sure to try out activities or sports that take advantage of the incredible natural surroundings. You’ll be able to rent a boat, kayak, snow shoes, a bicycle, or fishing and diving equipment. You can even sign up for a group fishing trip or have a chance to see the winter lights.

Stud Horse Mountain home in Methow Valley, WA; Architects Prentiss Balance Wickline (PBW) Architects; Photo courtesy of PBW Architects

Douglas fir walls and beams extend to the exterior of a weekend house near Golden, British Columbia. Designed by Bohlin Cywinski Jackson and Bohlin Grauman Miller Architects, it was designed for an active family that likes to hit the slopes. A chalet-like pitched roof emphasizes its cabin feel.

The long gangplank of a deck runs right out into the fields, a fact that Treanor relishes.

Buyers should cast as wide a net as possible in terms of location and amenities.

“When you’re doing a second home, a lot of the character of the design is defined by what it isn’t,” says architect Greg Howe, as a way of explaining the minimalistic approach that was taken on this Michigan weekend home. “If you think of it as cold, you have to remember, the setting, and accessing nature, is the point.”

Constructed on land he had owned for years, this tiny cabin is also totally green.

Suzanne and Brooks Kelley at the back of their 1,100-square-foot guest cottage.