Surrounded by five hectares of untouched nature and located just two and a half hours from Manhattan, this idyllic weekend retreat is a true escape from urban life. An A-frame cabin set deep in the Catskills, the home feels like it belongs to another world—quiet, grounded, and immersed in nature.

Nestled in the forests of New York State, the house appears almost as if it stepped out of a fairytale. Just a short drive from the city, this region—long favored by New Yorkers seeking respite—offers rivers, weekends spent outdoors, winter skiing, and a slower rhythm of life.

Originally built in 1966, the home is a classic A-frame structure set on a wooded plot. At the time of purchase, it featured generous proportions and three bedrooms, but also came with challenges: moisture issues in the basement, outdated mechanical systems, and construction intended only for seasonal use. A full renovation followed, including a new roof, windows, electrical and plumbing systems, added insulation, and a rethinking of how the house relates to its surroundings. The terrace was designed to flow seamlessly into the landscape, with garden paths that dissolve the boundary between indoors and out.

One of the greatest challenges was logistics. Delivering materials during harsh winter months and working within the architectural constraints of the A-frame required creative solutions. Maximizing natural light while preserving the integrity of the structure became a central design goal. The result is a bright, open interior where each room feels carefully positioned, allowing the home to feel expansive without losing its intimate, mountain character.

At the heart of the living space is a custom coffee table by Nick D’Ambrosio, paired with a vintage Tuareg rug in earthy tones dating back to the 1970s. Soft Magnolia sofas, handcrafted ceramic candleholders, and Fat Lava vases contribute warmth and a sense of refined comfort. The space feels layered, tactile, and quietly sophisticated.

The terrace offers an ideal place to unwind, surrounded by trees and open views of the Catskill Mountains, allowing nature to become an extension of daily living.

In the kitchen, Hallman appliances are integrated seamlessly into custom cabinetry by Nick D’Ambrosio. Tuareg rugs add warmth and texture, balancing the clean, contemporary lines of the space.

The guest bedroom comes alive during winter months, wrapped in soft white tones that create a feeling of calm and ease. The children’s room is playful yet intentional, where OMI lighting and vintage Tuareg pieces add warmth and character. The bathroom is defined by natural materials, with hand-crafted terrazzo by Estrya introducing artisanal detail and transforming the space into a quiet retreat.

The attic bedroom is airy and light, featuring an iconic Bubble chair, vintage Fat Lava lamps, and neutral textures that emphasize comfort and simplicity while embracing the dramatic rooflines.

The interior draws inspiration from the owner’s childhood memories of the Tatra Mountains—wooden chalets, evenings by the fire, and winter rituals rooted in warmth and togetherness. White and neutral tones are balanced with stone and wood, grounding the home in its natural surroundings. Special attention was paid to light and transparency; carefully placed windows and glass railings enhance openness while preserving privacy and framing views of the mountains.

The result is a home that feels both romantic and contemporary—an A-frame that honors its original character while embracing modern living. Even in winter, the interior remains filled with light, offering a space that feels timeless, personal, and deeply connected to nature.