A historic ski cabin overlooking Palisades Tahoe, California, originally designed by renowned architect Henrik Bull and featured on the cover of Sunset magazine in 1958, has been meticulously rebuilt and is now listed for sale at $5 million. The original 850-square-foot Klaussen Cabin, situated on a hillside overlooking the ski resort, was Bull’s first solo project and played a significant role in launching his career. Over the years, the cabin fell into disrepair, prompting its new owners, who purchased it in 2012, to embark on a reconstruction project that modernizes and honors Bull’s original vision.
Completed in 2016, the new 3,508-square-foot home retains the architectural essence of the original cabin while expanding its footprint to include three distinct cubes. These cubes house the kitchen, dining room, living room, and family room, all featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that frame stunning views of the surrounding slopes. The design also incorporates Bull’s signature prow-front A-frame style and reclaimed redwood siding from the original cabin, maintaining a connection to its mid-century roots.
The property is located at 1620 Lanny Lane in Olympic Valley, California, and offers a blend of historical significance and modern luxury. It features four bedrooms with balcony or patio access and various custom finishes, including reclaimed wood accents and a high-efficiency in-floor heating system. Listing agent Dave Westall of Sierra Sotheby’s International Realty praises the home as a “remarkable” tribute to Bull’s architectural legacy, noting its unique design elements and a prime location near the ski resort.
The owners worked closely with Bull before his passing in 2013 to ensure the new design remained true to his original intent. The result is a home that seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings, embodying Bull’s philosophy of creating structures that are “of” the landscape rather than dominating it. This dedication to preserving the cabin’s historical and architectural significance makes it a rare and valuable offering in the competitive Tahoe real estate market.
You can find the full listing on Sotheby’s International Realty.
