Built with DEN

Grey Zisser is Hudson Valley’s Certified DEN Build Partner and the founder of Upstate Build Company. After a first career in advertising, he proved his approach by building and renovating his own homes in the region. When an Airbnb guest asked if one of those houses was for sale—and then asked if he could build one just like it—Grey said yes. That commission launched a client practice focused on transparent budgeting, clear communication, and high-touch craftsmanship.In this episode, Grey and Mike dig into what it really takes to build a DEN in the Hudson Valley and Catskills: from land search and feasibility (zoning, utilities, setbacks) to permits, scheduling, and inspections, all the way through punch list and CO. Grey explains his cost-plus process, how he uses 3D modeling to walk clients through choices in real time, and why having a boots-on-the-ground builder from day one removes friction, surprises, and costly rework.If you’re considering a modern cabin, A-frame, or small home using DEN plans, this conversation is a practical playbook. You’ll learn how to set a realistic budget, where timelines get stuck, which decisions to make in design vs. on site, and how an experienced local partner can turn a set of plans into a finished, permitted home—on schedule and with fewer headaches.

Laura had a clear vision for her family’s cabin: something modern yet timeless, efficient yet warm, and perfectly suited for gatherings by the lake. Working with DEN’s Alpine 2.2 cabin plans, she brought that vision to life in a way that balanced design challenges with personal touches.For Laura, the appeal of DEN was in finding modern cabin plans that could deliver on both aesthetics and practicality. She wanted a design that reflected the spirit of a modern family cabin—a retreat that felt architecturally fresh, but still carried the warmth of a traditional getaway. The Alpine 2.2 cabin was a natural fit, combining efficiency with a layout perfect for entertaining, relaxing, and making memories year-round.What makes this project especially inspiring is how it demonstrates the flexibility of DEN’s designs. Set on a narrow lot cabin site near the lake, Laura’s build proves that you don’t need sprawling acreage to create an extraordinary retreat. With the right planning, even a compact footprint can become a welcoming space that feels open and expansive.The result is a true lakeside cabin retreat—bright, efficient, and designed for real family living. Large windows draw in natural light, thoughtful details make the most of every square foot, and the finished home seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor spaces. For anyone dreaming of a Lake Michigan cabin escape or simply exploring cabin plans that can adapt to unique property challenges, Laura’s project is proof that a modern vision, paired with the right plans, can create something timeless.

When Cooper set out to create a one-of-a-kind retreat in the Catskills, he knew he needed more than just inspiration — he needed cabin plans that could balance style, efficiency, and a clear path to building. His search ultimately led him to DEN Outdoors - our modern cabin plans stood out for their mix of clean design and practical, builder-friendly details. The result is Creekside at the Esopus, a project that reflects not only Cooper’s own vision but also how the right design can transform raw land into a welcoming destination.For Cooper, the decision to use DEN Outdoors cabin plans wasn’t just about building a house; it was about creating a space that could flex between personal use and a viable rental business. His cabin now doubles as both a relaxing escape and an inviting option for guests looking for modern cabin rentals, tiny home vacation rentals, or even the kind of immersive off-grid cabin rental experience that has become so popular among travelers. By combining thoughtful modifications to his chosen modern alpine house plans with his own creative touches, Cooper was able to achieve a build that feels both unique and instantly familiar to anyone who dreams of a mountain retreat.Along the way, he learned firsthand how efficient, well-structured design can simplify the construction process, reduce unexpected costs, and open the door to long-term success — lessons that anyone considering a build of their own can take to heart. In this story, Cooper shares his journey of choosing the right plans, marketing his property, and creating a modern Catskills getaway that feels like home from the moment you arrive.

In this episode, we explore what it takes to build a truly standout modern cabin in one of Kentucky’s most scenic regions. Sonia and Jeff, founders of Everly Lodging, joined us to talk through their journey turning raw land in Rogers, Kentucky, into a cluster of thoughtfully designed, high-performing cabin rentals. Nestled in the heart of Red River Gorge, their A-Frame cabins and modern rustic retreats blend minimalism with mountain charm, creating a one-of-a-kind experience for weekenders, hikers, and design lovers alike.Sonia and Jeff walk us through their process — from selecting the land to completing their first A-Frame cabin using DEN Outdoors plans. They share what it was like navigating the local permitting process, prepping their site, and executing a design vision that prioritizes simplicity, functionality, and connection to nature. Their modern rustic design combines clean lines, natural materials, and open interiors that feel peaceful and intentional — exactly what people are looking for in a design-forward A-Frame house.This episode also goes behind the scenes of their rental business. With over 90% occupancy rates, Everly Lodging is proof that good design and thoughtful hosting can create serious returns. Sonia and Jeff share how they approached staging, photography, guest communication, and pricing — and how they carved out space in the competitive Red River Gorge cabins market without compromising on what made their homes feel unique.Finally, we dig into why Rogers, Kentucky, is such a smart location for modern cabin development. With year-round tourism, an explosion of interest in nature-forward stays, and easy access to hiking and climbing in Red River Gorge, the area is an ideal canvas for building and hosting. Whether you’re dreaming about launching your own rental, or just love the idea of a weekend escape in the woods, this episode delivers both inspiration and actionable insight.

When Ava and Yang set out to build their dream getaway in Upstate New York, they weren’t just searching for inspiration — they needed modern cabin plans that could guide them from raw land to a finished retreat. Their journey ultimately led them to DEN Outdoors’ Outpost Plus, a design that combined the clean lines of a modern cabin build with the flexibility to customize details to fit their vision. What started as a set of cabin plans quickly became a blueprint for turning their long-held dream into a tangible home.For Ava and Yang, the decision to go with a modern design wasn’t about creating just another rustic cabin in the woods. They wanted a space that balanced livability with the potential to generate income through Airbnb rentals in the Catskills. By choosing builder-friendly cabin plans, they were able to streamline the process, avoid costly surprises, and focus on the details that would set their property apart — from the extra loft space to the way natural light floods through the signature Outpost Plus windows.Along the way, they discovered that modifying modern cabin plans requires careful planning. Small changes, like shifting layouts or adding square footage, can create ripple effects throughout the build. But with DEN’s structured approach, the challenges became opportunities to refine their retreat. This adaptability is one reason many homeowners exploring prefab cabins or prefab homes also turn to DEN: the plans provide a clear starting point while still allowing for creative adjustments.Now, as construction progresses from concrete floors to soaring timber frames, Ava and Yang’s Outpost Plus is taking shape as both a personal escape and a future rental destination. Their experience offers insight for anyone considering a modern cabin build of their own — showing how the right plans, a clear vision, and a willingness to adapt can transform raw land into a welcoming retreat that feels like home the moment you step inside.

Building a dream getaway starts with the right cabin plans, and Jonna and Shariq’s Reverie Room is a perfect example. Designed using modern A-frame house plans, their cabin in the Poconos shows how a thoughtful design can balance cost, customization, and comfort. The result is a stunning retreat that doubles as both a personal escape and a short-term rental property.From the beginning, the couple compared different approaches — from prefab cabins and traditional builds to A-frame kits and fully custom designs. What set DEN’s A-frame house plans apart was the flexibility: a structure that could be adapted to the landscape, offer large windows and loft space, and still stay within a realistic budget. That combination made the Reverie Room feel intentional from day one.The location in the Pocono Mountains amplified the value of choosing the right design. By starting with small cabin plans that emphasized indoor-outdoor connection, they created a space where natural light, forest views, and year-round usability all come together. Features like a lofted bedroom, open living space, and a deck for entertaining help the cabin feel both cozy and expansive at once.More than just a getaway, the Reverie Room shows how modern cabin plans can turn into a long-term investment. Whether used as a rental, family retreat, or creative project, this A-frame cabin demonstrates that the right plan doesn’t just provide a structure — it creates opportunity.

When Mary and Chris set out to build a cabin in the rolling hills of Brevard, North Carolina, they wanted more than a getaway — they wanted a design that could feel like home today and adapt for the future. Their search led them to modern cabin plans from DEN Outdoors, where they found the Alpine 2.2, a design that balanced clean, contemporary style with practical, builder-ready details. To complete their vision, they paired it with a detached garage, modeled off one of DEN’s tiny house plans, giving them flexible space for storage, vehicles, or future creative use.The couple’s project shows how the right North Carolina cabin plans can transform raw land into a space that feels intentional from day one. By leaning on well-designed floor plans and integrating passive solar elements, Mary and Chris created a home that blends seamlessly with its surroundings while remaining efficient and cost-conscious. It’s a model for anyone looking at small modern house plans or mountain builds that demand both beauty and durability.What makes their story stand out is how they approached challenges. Building on new land came with its hurdles, but DEN’s clear documentation and streamlined process helped them stay on track, limit surprises, and keep the focus on design. Paired with thoughtful choices like open interiors, large windows, and a garage-based layout, they were able to create a project that feels both elevated and approachable.Today, their Alpine 2.2 isn’t just a cabin — it’s a personal retreat, a gathering place, and a reflection of how modern house plans can adapt to the needs of real people. For anyone considering building in North Carolina or beyond, Mary and Chris’s experience is proof that great design paired with careful planning can deliver both peace of mind and a timeless home.

When Beth set out to build a peaceful retirement home in Vermont, she wanted more than just a cozy place to land — she was searching for modern farmhouse plans that would reflect her personal style, maximize energy efficiency, and make everyday living feel intentional. That search led her to DEN Outdoors, whose builder-ready cabin plans stood out for their clean lines, flexible layouts, and thoughtful detailing. What began as a long-held dream quickly took shape as a warm, light-filled modern farmhouse tucked into the woods of New England.Beth’s home is a beautiful example of how modern cabin plans can offer more than just rustic charm — they can deliver a turnkey path to energy-efficient living. With downsizing in retirement top of mind, Beth prioritized functionality and simplicity while still maintaining the visual warmth that makes a house feel like home. The result is a blend of classic farmhouse design with modern sensibilities: an open floor plan, high ceilings, and a welcoming porch that perfectly frames the surrounding forest.While many prospective homeowners look to prefab homes or modular solutions, Beth took a more hands-on route, using DEN Outdoors plans as a foundation for her own unique build. From crawl space foundation tweaks to adding special finishing touches inside, this project demonstrates the flexibility of DEN’s modern farmhouse plans for those looking to create a forever home without sacrificing style or substance.Whether you're considering a cabin-style retreat or exploring farmhouse plans for a new chapter in life, Beth’s journey is a powerful reminder that the right home plan can simplify the process and lead to something truly personal. In this DEN Outdoors review, you'll get a firsthand look at the choices, trade-offs, and design inspirations behind a Vermont build that balances comfort, efficiency, and timeless style.

If you’ve ever dreamed of building a small modern cabin from the ground up, Jennifer’s story will inspire you. She used modern cabin plans from DEN Outdoors to design and build a 918 sq ft lofted tiny home in Harrellsville, North Carolina — all while living on site and customizing every square foot for full-time living. Her home is a standout example of modern tiny home design that’s efficient, personal, and deeply livable.With a few bold tweaks to the original tiny house floor plan, Jennifer added a kitchen-forward layout, space-saving pocket doors, and even a scullery — transforming her cabin into a truly small luxury home. As a solo first-time builder and full-time nurse, she navigated the build process herself, working closely with a local contractor to bring the vision to life using DEN cabin plans.This story isn’t about a rental or a weekend getaway — it’s about how one woman designed her forever home using modern cabin plans that made sense for her land, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Whether you're planning your own lofted tiny home or just looking for real-world insight into building a small modern cabin, Jennifer’s journey is packed with lessons, design ideas, and inspiration.

If you’ve ever dreamed of turning a side hustle into a real estate win, Kamaria’s story is for you. She built a modern tiny home using small cabin plans from DEN Outdoors — and in just her first month, her tiny house Airbnb in Texas was already cash flow positive.The A-Frame Weekender design gave Kamaria a compact yet highly functional footprint — perfect for couples, weekend getaways, and smart investing. Located just outside San Antonio, her tiny house Airbnb blends sleek Scandinavian aesthetics with rental-ready durability, making it both peaceful and profitable.By using pre-designed small cabin plans instead of hiring an architect from scratch, Kamaria saved time, money, and stress — while still making space for creative tweaks like a loft, barn doors, and even an EV charger. Her modern tiny home now operates as a full-fledged short-term rental in Bandera, Texas, with glowing guest reviews and weekend bookings locked in for months ahead.

How one Canadian homeowner built her dream riverfront Barnhouse Retreat with DEN Outdoors' cabin plansIf you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to the sound of a river just outside your door, wood stove crackling, and sunlight pouring through modern French doors—this story is for you.In this interview, we sat down with Lyndsay M, a Toronto-based creative and longtime DEN Outdoors fan who built her own riverfront cabin retreat in Ontario. Using the Barnhouse Retreat from DEN’s catalog of modern cabin plans, Lyndsay customized her home with key upgrades like a Scandinavian-style wood stove, French doors opening to the river, and a cozy, minimalist layout optimized for comfort, light, and off-grid charm.What started as a dream to build a vacation rental in Ontario turned into a personal passion project—one that balances form, function, and style while remaining energy-efficient and budget-conscious. Lyndsay’s story proves you don’t need a custom architect or $30,000 design fees to build a stunning, livable cabin. With DEN Outdoors’ pre-engineered small cabin plans, plus a bit of vision and flexibility, she brought her cabin to life while keeping costs down and character high.This conversation is packed with insights for anyone considering a cabin build in Canada or the U.S., especially if you’re looking for:Modern, affordable alternatives to custom architectureIdeas for energy efficient cabins and wood stove installationsSmart tips for working with local contractors and engineersReal-life examples of DEN Outdoors cabin plans in actionCreative inspiration for your own vacation rental propertyFrom navigating Ontario’s permitting process to installing a custom fireplace and managing minor floor plan tweaks, Lyndsay walks us through what it really takes to turn a dream into a design—and a design into a home. Whether you’re exploring modern cabin plans, starting to budget for your own build, or just fantasizing about your future small cabin with French doors, this one’s worth a listen.

How Three Brothers Turned Raw Land into a Profitable Airbnb Investment Property Using DEN Outdoors Cabin PlansWhat happens when three brothers—each with backgrounds in hospitality and consulting—team up to build not one, but three vacation rentals from scratch? You get a stunning cabin compound in Luray, Virginia, perched on a ridge in the Shenandoah Valley, complete with cedar hot tubs, saunas, and unforgettable views. And at the heart of their success? DEN Outdoors’ cabin plans.In this interview, Joe, Elliot, and Oliver Portera walk us through how they transformed 10 acres of raw land into a modern prefab cabin retreat using DEN’s Modern Alpine Cabin plans. They share why they decided to build rather than buy, how DEN’s pre-engineered modern cabin plans streamlined their permitting and contractor process, and what it’s been like to host guests at their luxury short-term rental cabins.Whether you're exploring Airbnb investment properties, thinking of building a weekend home, or just looking for real-life inspiration on how to bring your cabin dreams to life, this conversation covers it all—cost-saving tips, builder relationships, design modifications, and lessons learned from tackling wells, weather, and winter builds. If you’re considering DEN Outdoors as your partner in a modern cabin build, this story is a must-read.

Looking to build a modern cabin that blends Scandinavian aesthetics with flexible living potential? You’re in the right place. In this customer spotlight, we chat with Philip, who built his dream cabin using the Outpost Plus—a sleek, compact design from DEN Outdoors that’s tailor-made for comfort, function, and short-term rental success.Nestled on a quiet piece of land in the woods, Philip’s cabin is more than just a getaway. It’s a highly personalized version of a modern cabin with loft, configured to support both everyday living and vacation hosting. In our conversation, Philip shares how he approached the land search, how he modified his cabin plans for better flow, and how his interior design choices—rooted in Scandinavian cabin minimalism—enhance both usability and style.Whether you’re exploring prefab cabin kits, researching how to build a cabin, or just love beautiful modern architecture in a forested setting, this interview delivers practical insight and inspiration from someone who’s done it. Read on to hear how Philip made it happen—and why the Outpost Plus might be your perfect fit too.

Looking to build a cozy, modern cabin near the Finger Lakes? In this story, we take you inside Nicole's custom DEN cabin build on Seneca Lake, where Scandinavian-inspired design meets laid-back lakefront living. Her home, based on DEN Outdoors' Outpost Plus cabin plan, blends minimalist architecture with warm, nature-driven interiors — and it's quickly become a standout vacation rental in the Finger Lakes. Whether you're dreaming of a modern cabin in upstate New York, planning your own build, or curious about how to turn a cabin into a successful Airbnb, this interview is packed with inspiration and firsthand insights.Set among the trees just steps from the lake, this modern cabin reflects the couple’s love of Scandinavian design, clean lines, and natural materials. Working with local tradespeople, Nicole transformed raw land into a serene forest escape featuring expansive windows, calming wood tones, and thoughtful customizations that brought their vision to life. The home’s open layout and layered textures strike a balance between modern design and cozy cabin vibes — perfect for relaxing getaways or hosting guests.Today, her cabin is not just a personal retreat — it’s also a top-performing Finger Lakes Airbnb rental with glowing reviews and strong occupancy. From managing the build process to styling the interiors and preparing the home for short-term guests, Nicole shares valuable insights into what made the project a success. Whether you're looking for Finger Lakes cabin ideas, exploring modern house plans for lake properties, or seeking real-world rental advice, this is a must-read.

Nestled in Wisconsin’s Northwoods, Clearlake Cottages is a modern family retreat built with DEN Outdoors cabin plans. Featuring a Modern Alpine Plus and two Outpost cabins, the project blends contemporary design with the natural beauty of a crystal-clear lakefront setting. For Tim and Sue Campbell, the vision was simple: create a modern cabin retreat where their family could gather year-round, while offering guests the kind of design-forward experience that has made lakeside cabins in Wisconsin increasingly popular.Unlike traditional Northwoods builds, which often default to rustic log homes or simple square structures, Clearlake Cottages showcase modern cabin design details—from soaring window walls to Scandinavian-inspired interiors. By using DEN cabin plans, the Campbells were able to streamline the construction process, align easily with contractors, and bring architectural quality to a region where design-driven cabin plans in Wisconsin are rare. The result is a family compound that feels intimate, functional, and visually stunning.Beyond serving as a family retreat, Clearlake Cottages is designed to meet the growing demand for short-term rentals in Wisconsin’s Northwoods. With a combination of cozy Outpost cabins and the larger Alpine Plus, the property strikes a balance between privacy and togetherness. Whether used for fishing trips, snowmobiling adventures, or lakeside escapes, the cottages embody the best of modern cabin living while proving that luxury cabins don’t need massive footprints to deliver unforgettable experiences.

Porter Construction Group, led by Ian Porter in Ellijay, GA, has quickly become one of DEN Outdoors’ most trusted strategic build partners. Specializing in bringing DEN house plans to life, Ian and his team have built everything from tiny house plans and modern cabin plans to A-Frame house plans and barnhouse plans around the Metro Atlanta area. By combining deep knowledge of local permitting and construction practices with DEN’s design-forward portfolio, Porter Construction Group helps homeowners turn architectural plans into stunning real-world builds.What makes Porter Construction Group unique is its ability to handle both urban builds in Atlanta and remote cabin construction projects in surrounding areas. Whether it’s executing a Modern Alpine Plus, a Barnhouse retreat, or a Mid Century Modern plan, Ian’s team ensures every project maintains the clean lines, big window walls, and thoughtful layouts that define modern cabin design. This balance of practical construction expertise and design integrity has positioned Porter Construction as the go-to choice for homeowners seeking custom cabins and tiny houses in Georgia.As DEN continues to expand its portfolio of prefab-ready designs and small cabin plans, partnerships like this make it easier for customers to move from blueprint to build. For those searching for a reliable Atlanta cabin builder who understands modern cabin plans, A-Frame house plans, and tiny house construction, Porter Construction Group offers the rare combination of craftsmanship, permitting knowledge, and passion for contemporary design.

The North Coast House on British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast is a striking example of how DEN’s modern cabin plans can be transformed into a one-of-a-kind retreat. Built from the Barnhouse Plus design, this custom home blends the functionality of a short-term rental (STR) business with the warmth of a family getaway. With its covered deck, expansive windows, and lakeside setting, the project shows how thoughtful cabin design creates a seamless connection between indoor comfort and the coastal rainforest landscape.For Ben and Katie, first-time homebuilders and new STR operators, choosing DEN meant starting with a clear, professional set of plans and a strong design foundation. They discovered that countless DEN reviews from other builders and homeowners echoed the same theme: DEN makes the leap from dream to build approachable. By leveraging a proven design process, the couple avoided common pitfalls and invested with confidence, knowing their project could be completed on time and within budget.Now complete, the North Coast House demonstrates the versatility of modern cabin plans for real-world use: a lakeside cabin retreat that doubles as a high-ROI rental property. Whether you’re exploring barnhouse plans, considering a modern cabin on the Sunshine Coast BC, or researching DEN reviews before your first build, this story illustrates how design, planning, and execution come together to create a truly unique home.

Building a modern cabin doesn’t have to start from scratch. For Janice, the dream of creating a mountain retreat came to life through DEN’s A-Frame house plans. Using professionally designed cabin plans gave her the confidence to tackle the challenges of a remote build, while still customizing the details to fit her vision. The result is a striking, Scandinavian-inspired A-Frame tucked into the forest — proof that modern cabin plans can balance style, functionality, and affordability.This project is more than just a cabin — it’s a case study in how A-frame floor plans can simplify the path from inspiration to construction. By starting with pre-designed A-frame plans, Janice avoided many of the cost and time pitfalls that come with fully custom architecture. From structural efficiency to interior layout, the plans streamlined the process while leaving room for personal touches, making her Backcountry A-Frame a standout in today’s crowded short-term rental market.Whether you’re interested in a cozy getaway, an Airbnb A-frame rental, or exploring modern rustic cabin design trends, this interview highlights how the right cabin plans can transform raw land into a profitable and inspiring retreat. Along the way, Janice shares insights into working with contractors, adapting to local requirements, and the real costs of building an A-frame in the mountains.

Building a modern cabin isn’t just about design—it’s about creating a space that blends comfort, profitability, and a unique guest experience. In Fredericksburg, Texas, real estate investor Dakota Haines did exactly that with the Pedernales A-Frame, transforming DEN’s modern cabin plans into one of the region’s most distinctive short-term rental properties.Based on DEN’s popular A-Frame house plans, this project shows how thoughtful architecture and smart amenities can elevate a build into a high-performing investment. The home stands out in Texas Hill Country’s competitive cabin rental market, offering design details and guest experiences that go beyond the typical cabin plans seen elsewhere.From its striking modern A-Frame silhouette to standout features like a full pickleball court and private hot tub rental experience, the Pedernales property proves that investing in modern cabin plans can deliver both lifestyle value and financial returns. For builders, investors, or anyone exploring how to turn A-Frame floor plans into a profitable venture, this story highlights how vision and execution come together.

Nestled in the foothills of Mount Rainier, the El Osito BnB is a showcase of what’s possible with modern cabin plans that balance style, efficiency, and a deep connection to nature. Built by Kevin and Devin, this Scandinavian-inspired retreat combines clean architectural lines with warm wood finishes to create an unforgettable stay in the Washington forest.What makes El Osito stand out is how it started from DEN cabin plans and evolved into a custom build that feels both timeless and highly functional. With the help of small cabin floor plans designed for modern living, the couple was able to maximize square footage without sacrificing comfort or luxury. The result is a cozy alpine hideaway that offers the best of both worlds: efficiency in design and big visual impact.The cabin itself is defined by its floor-to-ceiling glass walls and panoramic views—perfectly fitting the growing demand for a cabin with big windows that blur the line between indoors and outdoors. Unlike traditional rustic cottages, El Osito feels firmly contemporary, embodying the qualities of a modern alpine cabin while still maintaining that sense of remoteness and tranquility travelers crave.For anyone looking for inspiration on how to turn modern cabin plans into a successful short-term rental or a personal mountain retreat, the El Osito BnB is proof that thoughtful design choices and quality plans can deliver a space that both stands out in the market and feels like home.