Perched along the shores of Otter Tail Lake, this cabin combines a modern exterior with the warmth and character you’d expect from a true lake home. Thoughtful material selections, natural wood accents, and expansive views come together to create a retreat that blends modern style with the relaxed feel of a lake home.
Exterior
The home’s exterior makes a bold statement with DiamondKote 8-inch lap and board-and-batten siding in Onyx, complemented by Quality Edge Vesta steel siding panels in Gilded Grain. CertainTeed Landmark 30 shingles in Moire Black and black Marvin Essential windows continue the home’s sophisticated exterior palette.
Interior
Inside, the modern exterior transitions into a warm, inviting lake-inspired interior. Bayer Built Woodworks stained poplar three-panel interior doors and a mix of stained and painted poplar trim add natural character and warmth throughout the cabin. Black-framed Marvin windows bring the surrounding lake views into the living spaces while keeping the design clean and contemporary.
The Vision
The project began with a vision, and Hilltop’s design team helped bring that vision to life. Chris Rausch, Architectural Draftsman at Hilltop Lumber, worked with the homeowners to develop the cabin’s design, incorporating their ideas for a modern exterior and a “lakey” interior. Hilltop’s sales team then helped guide the homeowners through material selections, offering ideas and expertise along the way.
“We had come up with a design that we liked for the exterior of the cabin. We were looking for a modern look but also wanting to have a ‘lakey’ interior. We took our ideas to Chris and he did a remarkable job designing what we wanted.”
— Jim & Fran Cook
The Cooks chose Hilltop Lumber for both its proximity to their lake lot and recommendations from others who had worked with the company on their own builds. Throughout the process, they appreciated the team’s willingness to listen, make changes, and help bring their ideas together.
“Luke and Chris were both very patient and understanding when we made changes along the way.”
Hilltop supplied a wide range of materials for the project, including the framing, trusses, siding, roofing, windows, exterior and interior doors, trim, and deck railing. The team also coordinated prompt material deliveries to help keep the project moving.
“Our contractor, Ouren Construction, did a wonderful job building our cabin. They were very pleased with Hilltop’s prompt delivery of products when needed.”
From the initial design to the final details, this Otter Tail Lake cabin is a great example of how thoughtful planning, quality materials, and collaboration can turn a vision into a place built for making lake memories for years to come.
Project Team
- Homeowners: Jim & Fran Cook
- Contractor: Ouren Construction
- Design: Chris Rausch, Architectural Draftsman, Hilltop Lumber
- Sales: Hilltop Lumber Ottertail
- Pictures: Kayla Fearing, Director of Marketing, Hilltop Lumber
- Plumbing: CR Plumbing LLC
- Electrical: AJ’s Electric
- Heating & Cooling: Joe’s Heating & AC LLC
- Excavation: Barry Excavating Inc.
- Masonry: Reid Olson
- Landscaping: Swedbergs
- Trusses: Trussworthy
- Garage Door: Viking Garage Door
Materials Supplied by Hilltop Lumber
- DiamondKote 8″ Lap & Board and Batten Siding — Onyx
- Quality Edge 5″ Vesta Steel Siding Panels — Gilded Grain
- CertainTeed Landmark 30 Roofing — Moire Black
- Marvin Essential Windows — Black Interior & Exterior
- Bayer Built Exterior Doors
- Bayer Built Interior Doors — Stained Poplar
- Bayer Built Interior Trim — Painted & Stained Poplar
- AFCO 275 Series Horizontal Cable Railing — Black
- Hilltop Lumber Framing Materials
- Trussworthy Trusses
Hilltop Lumber is a trusted building materials supplier with locations in Alexandria, Glenwood, Ottertail, and Park Rapids, MN, serving homeowners and contractors throughout the lakes area. We offer a full range of high quality building products including windows, doors, millwork, cabinetry, countertops, hardware, and design services to support projects of all sizes. From custom homes and remodels to lake home builds and commercial projects, our team provides expert guidance, detailed project estimates, and reliable delivery to keep projects moving forward. Explore premium products from leading brands and discover how Hilltop Lumber helps bring functional, well crafted spaces to life across Central Minnesota.