Ethos Cabins creates innovative luxury micro-cabins for mountain living that can be delivered anywhere in the contiguous United States. Beginning with their 400-square-foot flagship Borah model, Plan North Engineers tapped into our extensive expertise in modular construction and high-mountain resort communities to develop comprehensive structural engineering solutions. These precision-engineered cabins accommodate both permanent foundation installations and mobile RV chassis configurations. Designed for discerning clients seeking connections to outdoor recreation and nature, these cabins serve diverse demographics, establishing second homes or providing additional space for visiting family. The unique engineering challenge involved designing hybrid timber-and-steel frame systems capable of withstanding extreme snow loads and harsh mountain conditions while maintaining structural integrity for off-site delivery. Plan North provided comprehensive frame analysis and design, adaptable foundation systems for diverse site conditions, and coordination of the modular construction approach that enables factory-built precision with reduced construction timelines. 

The successful realization of the Ethos Cabin project resulted from close collaboration between Plan North Engineers and key partners including Office of the Ordinary—our architectural partner with experience spanning from treehouses and residential projects to commercial—and J2 Homes, our builder with extensive residential expertise. Working closely with the entire Ethos Cabins team, we solved complex engineering challenges inherent in creating luxury structures that perform equally well as permanent installations and transportable units. This partnership demonstrates Plan North Engineers' commitment to teamwork and innovative problem-solving, developing robust yet refined framing systems that accommodate extensive glazing, high-end finishes, and sophisticated amenities. The result is premium retreat spaces that redefine what's possible in luxury modular living. 

Photos by Plan North Engineers. Renderings by Alpine Visual.