Black Hawk on the River

McCall, ID

Architect: Galczynski Studio 
Structural: Plan North Engineers 
Contractor: Cornerstone Construction 
Landscape: Trailridge Design and Planning  
Interiors: Modern Cottage


Plan North Engineers provided structural design for a refined family retreat near McCall, Idaho, carefully crafted to withstand the region’s demanding seasons while embracing its natural surroundings. Set along the Payette River, the ~4,000 SF cabin was designed to balance sophistication with comfort, offering uninterrupted views and year-round livability in Idaho’s mountain country. The structural team developed a resilient wood-framed system that harmonizes with the site’s rugged terrain and seasonal variations, ensuring performance for snow loads, wind exposure, and temperature swings. From early analysis through detailed framing design, Plan North Engineers supported the project’s architectural vision, prioritizing both durability and design integrity in a structure intended to feel as enduring as its setting. 

Collaboration was central to the project’s success, with architect Galczynski Studio leading the design vision and Cornerstone Construction executing the build. Trailridge Design and Planning shaped the landscape to connect the cabin seamlessly to the riverside environment, while Modern Cottage curated interiors that extend the home’s natural warmth indoors. Plan North Engineers’ structural expertise enabled the team to translate a refined, minimalist concept into a buildable, resilient structure—addressing building and code requirements without compromising aesthetics. The result is a home that exemplifies thoughtful engineering and collaborative design, offering its owners a lasting retreat that reflects both the spirit of Idaho and the strength of disciplined craftsmanship.

Images by Galczynski Studio and Plan North.

Modern cabin design in McCall Idaho by Galczynski architecture and Plan North structural engineers.