The Micro Cabin 323SF is a tiny guest house designed and completed in 2014 by Brooklyn-based Breitner Ciaccia—Office of Architecture (BC—OA). Located in Montauk, New York, the cabin is situated on a compact 12' x 15' footprint on an existing foundation next to a main house. Despite its extremely small size, the cabin was designed to function like a full-sized home, showcasing clever space management and high-performance design.

The central idea behind the Micro Cabin was to treat its small floor plan as a "jewel box," with every millimeter carefully considered for maximum functionality. The architects, Amy Breitner and Greg Ciaccia, utilized multi-functional surfaces and thoughtful interventions to make the space feel both efficient and expansive.

A recessed floor in the living area allows for a generous, built-in lounge, creating a distinct zone for relaxation without visually dividing the room. The flue of a small wood-burning fireplace extends from floor to ceiling, drawing the eye upward and emphasizing the double-height space above the entry. A skylight further amplifies this effect, inviting natural light into the core of the cabin. The kitchen and storage areas are cleverly tucked beneath the staircase, making efficient use of every cubic foot.

The exterior and interior are defined by a contrast of materials. The north and west facades are clad in solid, reclaimed hickory wood, providing privacy from the nearby main house. The east and south facades feature strategically placed windows that connect the interior with the surrounding national forest land.

The cabin is purposefully integrated with its natural surroundings. The careful placement of windows provides framed views of the tranquility of the adjacent forest. The exterior cladding, which will weather over time, helps the cabin blend into its rustic setting.

Project credits

Architects: BC—OA (Breitner Ciaccia—Office of Architecture)

Photographer: Amy Barkow

Location: Montauk, New York

Completion Year: 2014