Field Notes
Field Notes is a growing collection of short articles drawn from real design and building experience.
These pieces explore how cabins are planned, how drawings are intended to be used, and where projects often go sideways — with the goal of helping you make better decisions before construction begins.
If you enjoy understanding the why behind the design, Field Notes offers a deeper look into the thinking that informs every One-Five Design plan.
Why Good Building Plans Don’t Have to Be Expensive
One of the most common assumptions I encounter is that low-cost building plans must be low quality. If a set of drawings is priced under a few hundred dollars, the instinctive...
Why Good Building Plans Don’t Have to Be Expensive
One of the most common assumptions I encounter is that low-cost building plans must be low quality. If a set of drawings is priced under a few hundred dollars, the instinctive...
Why A-Frame Cabins Are Harder Than They Look
Misconceptions, structural realities, and a better way to design an A-frame. Introduction Few building forms feel as immediate as the A-frame. It’s instantly recognizable, deeply nostalgic, and often associated with...
Why A-Frame Cabins Are Harder Than They Look
Misconceptions, structural realities, and a better way to design an A-frame. Introduction Few building forms feel as immediate as the A-frame. It’s instantly recognizable, deeply nostalgic, and often associated with...
Why There Is No Universal Material List
Why There Is No Universal Material List (And Why That’s Actually a Good Thing) One of the most common questions I receive about my cabin plans is: “Do these plans...
Why There Is No Universal Material List
Why There Is No Universal Material List (And Why That’s Actually a Good Thing) One of the most common questions I receive about my cabin plans is: “Do these plans...
Who Builds Their Own Cabin?
You won’t see them bragging about it. They’re probably not influencers. But there’s a kind of person out there—the kind who decides to build a cabin with their own two hands. Not...
Who Builds Their Own Cabin?
You won’t see them bragging about it. They’re probably not influencers. But there’s a kind of person out there—the kind who decides to build a cabin with their own two hands. Not...
How Good Design Saves Money — and Builds Someth...
When you’re building something as personal and meaningful as a cabin, it’s tempting to think bigger is better. But the truth is, good design isn’t about building bigger — it’s...
How Good Design Saves Money — and Builds Someth...
When you’re building something as personal and meaningful as a cabin, it’s tempting to think bigger is better. But the truth is, good design isn’t about building bigger — it’s...