08/03/2026
And the ARDA goes to...... Lindsey Hinds Smith with Hindsite Design for the Mountain Cabin Foyer in the Design Feature category!
-Project Description-
At the heart of this Mountain Cabin is a 22’ long foyer crowned by a custom cupola clad entirely in reclaimed Louisiana sinker cypress. Conceived from the earliest stages of design as a defining architectural element, the cupola establishes a memorable sense of arrival while transforming a simple circulation space into the emotional center of the home.
The significance of this feature lies not only in its architectural presence, but in the story embedded within its walls. The sinker cypress originated from centuries-old logs recovered from Southeast Louisiana swamplands deeply connected to the homeowners' roots. After retrieval, the material was milled into tongue and groove planks, kiln dried, and driven to Montana to be laid flat to season beneath the mountain sun, allowing the wood to acclimate naturally while lightening over time. Rich texture, distinctive grain patterns, and the warmth of the reclaimed cypress take center stage, framing dramatic 360-degree mountain views surrounding the home.
Beyond its visual impact, the cupola enhances the functionality of the space. Deep covered porches on the front and rear elevations naturally shade the foyer's windows. Positioned above, the cupola captures daylight as the sun travels east to west, introducing natural light into the foyer's interior and changing the character of the space throughout the day. What could have been a narrow passage instead becomes an experience, one that invites visitors to pause, look upward, and absorb the craftsmanship surrounding them.
The sinker cypress cupola and foyer sequence embody the integration of architecture, material, and memory. Before guests encounter the expansive mountain views beyond, they are welcomed by a piece of heritage. The result is a design feature that leaves a lasting impression through authenticity, craftsmanship, and the belief that the most meaningful spaces are those that tell a story.
