Project: Firelight Cabins at Shope Creek
Architecture: Rusafova Markulis Architects
Builder: Mack Constructors Inc
Landscape Architect: Kate Ancaya
Location: Shope Creek, North Carolina, United States
Area: 650 ft2 cabin
Year: 2024
Photo Credits: Ryan Theede
Tucked away in the serene landscape of East Asheville, North Carolina, Firelight Cabins at Shope Creek offer a peaceful retreat designed to harmonize with the rhythms of nature. Set on a 22-acre private, wooded property beside a gentle creek, this charming hospitality destination features seven secluded modern cabins—each one crafted for rest, reflection, and quiet connection to the land.
Modern Comfort in a Rustic Setting
Completed in 2024, each of the 650-square-foot cabins reflects a philosophy of restrained luxury. Thoughtfully designed interiors blend contemporary convenience with a clean, natural aesthetic. Large windows frame views of the forest, while cozy interiors offer a warm place to recharge after a day exploring the trails, creeks, or simply listening to the sounds of the woods.
While privacy defines the individual cabins, a shared communal pavilion fosters a gentle sense of community. Guests can gather around the fire, share a meal, or enjoy quiet conversation beneath the stars. A shared garden—complete with a whimsical chicken coop—adds charm and a homestead touch, reinforcing the property’s connection to its Appalachian roots.
A Design Guided by Intention and Simplicity
The vision behind Firelight Cabins was clear from the start. Our clients, passionate about preserving the natural beauty of the valley, sought to create accommodations that felt timeless and modest, yet quietly luxurious. They played an active role in shaping every element of the project, from cabin orientation and material selection to the smallest design details. Their thoughtful approach helped ensure that the cabins feel neither over-designed nor intrusive—just perfectly in tune with their environment.
Minimalist in expression but rich in atmosphere, each cabin invites guests to slow down, breathe deeply, and experience a retreat that feels both restorative and inspiring. The interiors celebrate raw textures and natural materials, offering a sense of comfort that never feels forced. By blending rustic elegance with contemporary restraint, the design offers a fresh take on Appalachian hospitality.
A Place Where Nature and Stillness Take the Lead
What sets Firelight Cabins at Shope Creek apart is not just its design but its respect for place. The retreat preserves the quiet of the valley, enhancing rather than disturbing the landscape. Guests find themselves immersed in a sanctuary where birdsong replaces city noise, and the shifting light of the forest becomes part of the daily rhythm.
Whether you’re seeking solitude, a romantic getaway, or an unplugged family escape, Firelight Cabins provide an ideal setting. Here, nature leads the experience, while every design decision supports a deeper sense of connection—to the land, to others, and to oneself.
