Nestled in the woods of Blountville, Tennessee, Perch 2.0 by Mike Stone Architect is a 415-square-foot oak shelter that emphasizes a hands-on, immersive approach to architecture. The project, conceived in 2017 when the architect acquired a large quantity of rough-sawn white oak lumber, was built over three years and was heavily influenced by the process of its own creation. The availability, condition, and sizes of the salvaged materials dictated the form of the final structure, resulting in a design that is both a practical retreat and a testament to unconventional architectural production. The building exhibits a "gritty, imperfect nature" that gives it a timeless character, despite being new construction. The design purposefully incorporates reused materials, with reclaimed oak forming the main structure and brick salvaged from a 1940s printing press making up parts of the construction. The black siding pays homage to the traditional tobacco barns found throughout the Eastern U.S. landscape. An architect's great-grandfather's swing is also incorporated into the design, adding a personal and historical touch. The result is a structure that looks as though it has existed on the property for a much longer time. While serving as a retreat for camping and socially distanced gatherings, Perch 2.0's purpose extends beyond its function. Much of its value was realized during the construction process itself, allowing the architect to explore a direct and unmediated approach to building. The shelter is also intended to be a base from which to design future architectural interventions on the property. Project credits Architecture: Mike Stone Architect Engineering: Spoden & Wilson Consulting Engineers Structural Photography: Alyssa Nealon, Hiram Rash Manufacturers: Autodesk, Fasten Master TimberLOK, Henard Metal Fabricators, Hilti, McNeel, Oak Ridge Hardwoods, Reclaimed Materials Group, Valspar